San Diego Family January Health & Wellness Issue by San Diego Family Magazine

FREE January 2019

SanDiegofamily.com ANNUAL HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE

WAYS

TO NOURISH YOUR SPIRIT

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the secret to staying fit?

Family e Playt im

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“After being on Dr. Wong’s program for 2 months, I’ve lost almost 40 pounds. I was lethargic and couldn’t keep up with my kids but I’ve found an answer to my energy problems and I wake up with energy, I feel better, I’ve been eating healthier and I’ve been more active. Thank you Dr. Wong!”

“Before I came to see Dr. Wong, I had a lot of health concerns. I had extreme knee pain, I was over-weight and I also had a lack of energy. After I had a consultation with Dr. Wong, he told me what was wrong. Everything we did involved no pain and in 8 weeks, I have lost 32 pounds without doing exercise! I am a lot more energetic and I feel like working out. I am stronger, more alert, more flexible and limber so I appreciate everything about Dr. Wong. If you’re ever in need of optimal health, come see Dr. Wong because he’ll make you strong!”

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Inside

36 198

2 - 2018

Volume 37 • Number 10 • January 2019

articles

11 Ways to Nourish Your Spirit Winter got you down? These tips will help.

in every issue 12 Staff Page 14 Short & Sweet News | Notes | Tips

January Calendar of Family Events

16 What’s New from AAP in 2019 Updates from the American Academy of Pediatrics 20 Family Playtime It’s the secret to staying fit! 22 Cannabis Update How changing attitudes impact local youth

Photo courtesy of Photosbyisaac

45 The Marketplace/Classifieds

26 How to Protect Kids from Anxiety Overload Anxiety is on the rise — here’s how to help

Sponsored Content 18 Must-Do Family Fun Activities for 2019 30 Head of the Class

DON’T MISS THIS! 2019 Health & Wellness Guide Visit SanDiegoFamily.co m

6 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

On the Cover: La Jolla resident Carolina Tiller and daughter Sophia are engaging in healthy family playtime! Cover photo: All Colors Photography

! E C N A H C LA S T

Do you want your child to appear on the

SDFM is looking for six children ages 2-11 and one multiples combo to appear on the cover of a future issue of San Diego Family Magazine or our annual Out & About family adventure publication.

cover of San Diego Family Magazine?

2019 Cover Kids Search Olivia was one of our 2018 Cover Kids Winners!

Enter online at: www.SanDiegoFamily.com/contests/cover-kids-search Visit our website for complete rules and more information, or call 619-685-6970.

Thank you to our sponsors:

2019 Search Ends: JANUARY 31, 2019

(Online entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. on this date. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by this date.)

Contest open to all San Diego County residents. Visit our website to enter contest online or print out the mail-in registration form. A $25 registration fee per entry ($35 for multiples category) must accompany a recent high quality photo, used to determine finalists (photo will not be returned). Submitted photos of 25 finalists from each category (100 total) will be displayed at: www.SanDiegoFamily.com/contests/cover-kids-search-winners-finalists Category finalists will be invited to a judging event to help determine contest winners. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego.

SanDiegofamily.com

on the web Get to know SanDiegoFamily.com, where you’ll discover a plethora of awesomeness for parents.

WIN

THIS!

To enter these contests, visit SanDiegoFamily.com, go to “Contests”, then “This Month’s Contests.”

Resources: Family Health & Home • Immune-Boosting Foods • Dangerous Trends in Teens: What Parents Need to Know • Heart Health: Screen Your Teen

ner options for ers healthy lunch or din Jersey Mike’s Subs off ng subs using ke’s takes pride in creati busy families. Jersey Mi produce. Try meats and the freshest lean cuts of high-quality sub becomes y and taste how a great your cold sub Mike’s Wa y Mike’s a $50 gif t card to Jerse A Sub Above! Enter to win ons. ati 41 San Diego County loc Subs, valid at any of the Contest ends Jan. 24

Things to Do: Family Travel • Winter Family Fun in Big Bear • 6 Snow Play Vacations

Can’t find what you’re looking for on our website? Enter key words in the search box and browse our list of articles.

San Diego Family Magazine sandiegofamilymagazine

8 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

Kick off the new year reading more together as a family. Buying books can get expensive, so we’re giving away a prize pack of kids’ books to get you started. Enter for your chance to win! Contest ends Jan. 24.

This super fun, outdoor bonding adventure will have your whole family working and playing together as a team! Try something new this year — a family game of paintball or airsoft tag at The Paintball Park, which offers fun for all skill levels. Fresh air and exercise is combined with strategy, competition and fun! Both locations offer unique local features to enhance your experience. Enter to win a family 4-pack of WalkOn Play Sessions at The Paintball Park. Contest ends Jan. 24.

Editorial Publisher/Editor in Chief Sharon Bay sharon@SanDiegoFamily.com Managing Editor Lisa Gipson editor@SanDiegoFamily.com Calendar Editor Jennifer A. Burman jenny@SanDiegoFamily.com

Design Art Design/Web Design Rik Thiesfeld design@SanDiegoFamily.com Cover Photo All Colors Photography

Editorial Guidelines Find editorial guidelines at SanDiegoFamily.com (“Editorial” at the bottom of the home page). Submission does not guarantee publication. We reserve the right to edit all submissions.

Distribution Locations San Diego Family Magazine is distributed at more than 1,500 locations. Pick up a free copy at: Albertsons, Ralphs Supermarkets, McDonald’s, Sombrero Mexican Food, Round Table Pizza, Wahoos, Fleet Science Center, schools, libraries, medical offices and more.

Subscriptions Receive 12 issues for $18, plus our annual publication, Out & About. Orders must include payment to San Diego Family Magazine. Mail to: SDFM, Subscriptions, 1475 Sixth Ave., Fifth Floor, San Diego, CA 92101; or call 619-685-6970 to use a credit card.

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Nicole Maggio 619-685-6971 • nicole@SanDiegoFamily.com North County Inland (includes Scripps Ranch) Crystal Grobner 619-685-5860 • crystal@SanDiegoFamily.com East County 619-685-6970 • family@SanDiegoFamily.com Clairemont, Linda Vista, Mission Valley North and Mira Mesa San Diego Family Magazine is published monthly by San Diego Family Magazine LLC. Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.

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January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Our San Diego

Publisher’s Letter

Families

Welcome to 2019! Here we are, already into a new year. It seems like just a few

years back we were experiencing Y2K (going from 1999 to 2000), but that was 19 years ago! Do you make New Year’s resolutions? If you don’t typically get through the first month or two, consider changing the resolution focus to family playtime. Go to page 20 and select a few family activities. You’ll have fun and be healthy at the same time. See how you are doing in six months. Tweak them a bit if you haven’t continued and start again. Don’t let winter weather get you down — take some time for yourself. Check out page 46 for ideas. Exercise by taking a walk, even if it is raining. Walking in the rain is fun! Then go home and watch the classic movie “Singin’ in the Rain” starring Gene Kelly. Recreational cannabis became legal for adults (ages 21 and up) one year ago. Now that it’s legal, it’s causing some misperceptions in kids and teens. Learn about it on page 22. Talk with your kids about drugs, alcohol and current laws. Remember that you (parents) are legally responsible for your kids (and their friends when at your house or in your care). January is Soup Month. Soup is one of my favorite meals! Tortilla, tomato, bean — honestly, I don’t think there are any soups that I don’t like. It’s warm and usually has great nutritional ingredients with lots of veggies (some hidden). As for Pie Day on January 23, give me an apple crumb pie with ice cream any day. I don’t need a special day to celebrate!

sharon@sandiegofamily.com

Main Office: 1475 Sixth Avenue, Fifth Floor, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: 619-685-6970 Fax: 619-685-6978 E-mail: family@SanDiegoFamily.com Mission Statement To enhance the quality of life for San Diego County families by providing information and resources that support the importance and pleasure of parenting.

12 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

Fun fact: Every day of the year there is a National (something) Day to celebrate. In January — National Soup Month and Get Organized Month — highlights include Clean Off Your Desk Day (1/14), Pie Day (1/23) and Inspire Your Heart with Art Day (1/31). Which of these are you most likely to celebrate and how will you do it? Anne Malinoski, contributing writer I embrace any excuse to consume my favorite dessert, which is why I’ll spend both Pie Day and Pi Day (3/14) baking flaky, fruity pastry treats. This year I’ll set the kitchen mood with Broadway’s “Waitress” soundtrack! Check out Anne’s recipe for adorable Mini Mason Jar Pies at www.sandiegofamily.com/dining-recipes/ mini-mason-jar-pies. Lisa Gipson, managing editor Most people know I’m a master of piles of paper, so I’ll likely commemorate Clean Off Your Desk Day with some creative pile rearranging and then celebrate my “clean” desk with a piece of pie. See what I did there? I’m also a multi-tasker. Crystal Grobner, marketing representative Inspire Your Heart with Art Day! Motherhood has changed my hobbies and interests — art is a prime example. Something I never would have done before, but now enjoy, is spending time with my kids painting, making a mess and being creative together. Get inspired with at-home art projects in the Crafts for Kids section of our website: www .sandiegofamily.com/for-the-kids/crafts-for-kids.

Cheers

to the

NEW Year! We wish your family a New Year and new beginning!

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January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Short & Sweet

Lisa Gipson Sweet Siblings We’re looking for great photos that demonstrate “sibling love” for an upcoming issue of San Diego Family: brothers, sisters, twins, triplets or any combination. Email clear, hi-res photos to editor@ sandiegofamily.com, along with names and ages of kids in photo, parent name, and area of San Diego County the family resides. Please put “sibling love” in the subject line. Deadline: Jan. 14.

San Diego Youth Featured in Annual Playwrights Festival Don’t miss the 34th Annual Festival of Plays by Young Writers at The Old Globe January 10-12 and 22-26. Get tickets at www.playwrightsproject.org. The festival features winning plays from the California Young Playwrights Contest — four of the six winners are from San Diego! Naomi Melville, 17, Mt. Carmel High School Trash! The Musical (Program A) Shyla de Hoop, 11 Creative, Performing and Media Arts School Have Hope (Program B) Marco Herrera & Chris Johnson, 14 Bayfront Charter High School Just Let Me Help (Program A)

Val (4) and Betty (6) of Pacific Beach.

Hey kids, guess what? Legoland California Resort is having a 20th birthday celebration this year, but YOU get the gift! From Jan.1–Dec. 31, 2019 kids ages 3–12 receive a free admission ticket to Legoland California, Sea Life Aquarium and/or Legoland Water Park (depending on what’s open on the child’s actual birth date). Proof of birth date required upon arrival. Learn more at www.legoland.com/california/ legoland-california/20th-birthday.

Your child’s eyes will reap the benefits of the Revive LED Desk Lamp, which supports eye health. This new lamp from the OttLite Wellness Series reduces eyestrain by up to 51 percent and features three touchactivated brightness settings and adjustable knobs for positioning. The energy-efficient LEDs are rated to last up to 40,000 hours. www.ottlite.com. Learn more about eye health in our awardwinning article, How Digital Devices Affect Eyes: What you need to know about Computer Vision Syndrome at www .sandiegofamily.com/ resources/family-healthand-home.

14 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

Geri Goodale, Reminisce Photography

Kids Free at Legoland!

l-r: Marco Herrera, Chris Johnson, Jack Ventimilia (Sea of Fog), Naomi Melville, Emma Kuli (A Mother’s Mother), and Shyla de Hoop

Last chance! Enter our 2019 Cover Kids Search by 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 31 for a chance to have your child featured on a future cover of San Diego Family Magazine or our annual publication, Out & About with Kids. Visit www .sandiegofamily.com/contests/cover-kidssearch for details about the contest and to enter online.

Start the new year with everything you need to stay healthy! Need a doctor, dentist or orthodontist? Want new ideas to get your family fit while having fun? The advertisers in our Health & Wellness Guide 2019 can help. Browse this issue, then visit www.sandiegofamily.com/health-guide/healthwellness-guide for more.

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January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Lisa Pawlak

What’s New from AAP in 2019 The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently announced new policy statements on a variety of topics including car seat safety, the negative outcomes of spanking, and updated treatments for sportrelated concussions. While many of

us consider the beginning of the year a great opportunity to establish new, personal health resolutions, it’s also worth checking out old-fashioned safety guidelines for the kids. You might be surprised to see some changes.

New Car Seat Safety Guidelines The AAP has removed age limits from car seat safety recommendations. Until recently, parents were encouraged to keep kids rear facing until the age of 2. New recommendations are now based solely on weight and height: Keep children in the rear-facing position until they reach the upper weight and height limits of the car seat. This may be beyond the age of 2, depending on the size of your child and

16 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

the capacity of your car seat. Weight and height limits vary by car seat model, so get familiar with this information on yours. Sometimes it’s listed on a sticker on the actual car seat. You can also find the information in the instruction manual or at www.healthychildren .org/English/safety-prevention/ on-the-go/Pages/Car-Safety-SeatsProduct-Listing.aspx. The rear facing position has been found to be the safest because, in the event of a car accident, the child’s head is already being pressed against the back of the car seat; therefore, the force of impact often continues in this same direction during a collision. The risk of whiplash or overextension of the neck is dramatically reduced. Overall, car seats have effectively reduced the risk of injury and death when compared to children using regular adult seat belts. Always use a car seat for children when traveling by motor vehicle. For information on California’s car seat laws, visit www.chp.ca.gov/programs-services/ programs/child-safety-seats.

Spanking More research has emerged showing that spanking children is an ineffective and harmful disciplinary tool. As a result, the AAP has just issued its strongest anti-spanking message ever, and called for a ban on spanking. While spanking may change a child’s behavior in the short term (primarily by causing fear), kids who are spanked suffer in the long term physically, mentally and emotionally. Spanking affects school

performance and social interactions, raises stress hormones, and impacts normal brain development. Kids who are spanked also exhibit increased aggressive behavior. Alternative methods that teach kids right from wrong include rewarding positive behavior, setting limits, redirecting, establishing expectations, and positive role modeling. Talk to your pediatrician for help on establishing effective discipline practices at home. For more ideas, visit: www.healthychildren.org/ English/family-life/family-dynamics/ communication-discipline/Pages/ Disciplining-Your-Child.aspx.

Sport-Related Concussions Over one million kids are treated for concussion each year in the United States. A new report by the AAP cites the latest research about kids and sport-related concussions. Unfortunately, concussions are common in almost all sports, at all levels; boys tackle football and girls soccer have the highest instances. Unlike previous recommendations, which involved very limited postconcussion physical and cognitive activity, new recommendations for post-concussion treatment call for reducing (not eliminating) physical and cognitive activity in the days following injury. Kids should never return to sport the same day as injury, but brisk walking after an initial rest period might be beneficial. There is generally no cause to miss a lot of school or avoid electronics after concussion. The severity of injury sustained during concussion can vary significantly, so always seek professional healthcare advice following any blow to the head. Effective treatment can reduce recovery time and long-term consequences; most kids fully recover within four weeks. Read the full report at http:// pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/ early/2018/11/08/peds.2018-3074. v Lisa Pawlak is an award-winning contributing writer and Encinitas resident.

Canyon Rim Children's Center “Dedicated to the individuality of children.”

Canyon Rim Children’s Center (CRCC) has been providing high quality, enrichment, preschool programs for San Diego children since 1998. We are a full day, year round, enrichment program. Our learning philosophy is based on developmentally appropriate practices inspired by the schools in Reggio Emilia, Italy. Our developmental, play-based, preschool serves children ages two through six.

At CRCC, we strive to maintain child to teacher ratios lower than those required by the State of California. Our teachers’ educational credentials exceed those as specified by the State. Our professional staff creates a safe and caring environment where the emphasis is on learning through play. As Fred Rogers, a.k.a., “Mr. Rogers” said, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” We recognize each child is a unique person with individual rates of growth. Our goal is to meet each child’s

emotional, social, cognitive and physical needs in a relaxed, loving environment, free from personal criticism and excessive competition. Activities in art, music, math, language, science, dramatic play, fine and gross motor development are fashioned to facilitate transition from one developmental stage to the next. Our teachers also use our wellequipped, natural playgrounds to support exploration and promote physical development. Natural outdoor spaces enhance curiosity & encourage children to develop an appreciation and awareness of nature. At CRCC, children develop the skills of observation, inquiry, concentration, problem solving, and self-reliance. Our structured, yet open-ended program prepares each child to utilize his or her intellectual and creative abilities in future learning tasks. Here we work to give each child the tools and the foundation on which to build a lifetime of learning. Kindergarten teachers love our CRCC children!

For more information go to www .canyonrimcc.com or to schedule a tour call (619) 287-6767.

January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Sponsored Content

iFLY Oceanside www.iflyoceanside.com Soar to new heights this year at iFLY Oceanside! iFLY delivers the dream of freefall flight to kids and adults from ages 3 to 103. Step into the vertical wind tunnel and prepare to be blown away! Each “flight” includes a training class with a certified flying instructor to ensure your safety while in the air. Hosting a birthday party or group event? iFLY specializes in custom events for groups of any size. Plus, don’t miss All Abilities Night for kids and adults with special needs.

San Diego Central Library www.sandiego.gov/public-library/i-can-too Grab your library card, head to the San Diego Central Library and take advantage of fabulous resources like free yoga classes, the Sullivan Family Baseball Research Center and a super cool Innovation Lab. New to this location is the Binford I CAN, Too! Center, designed for children with accessibility needs. Spread the word! The Center offers state-of-the-art technology including a SARA Reader that reads text from print materials and EZsee Keyboards that provide easy-tosee computer keys.

San Diego Out & About with Kids - San Diego’s Adventure Guide for Families www .sandiegofamily .com/things-todo/out-about

The Paintball Park www.thepaintballpark.com Make 2019 the best year ever by trying something new and different as a family! The Paintball Park offers family fun for all experience levels and abilities, including Paintball Lite, Airsoft and Splatmaster games. You’ll laugh, compete and work as a team, creating lifelong memories. Open for walk-in play or reserved group parties. Call or visit website for more information.

Looking for even more bucket list ideas? If there’s one thing San Diegans know, it’s how to have fun in the sun. Whether your family is local or visiting from out of town, our annual San Diego Out & About with Kids guide has everything you need to make the most of your time in America’s Finest City. Our guide has something for everyone — from animal lovers to beachgoers. Adventure awaits, so get exploring!

January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Family Playt ime

Cassandra Padgett

The secret to staying fit According to The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “Play is brain building, a central part of healthy child development, a key to executive function skills, and a buffer against the negative impacts of stress. Furthermore, play builds the bond between parent and child.”

January usually brings a refocus on

health and fitness, but the enthusiasm often wanes by February. How can families become (and stay) healthy all year? Shift the focus to family playtime. San Diegans are fortunate to live in a place where weather doesn’t interrupt outdoor activities. Take advantage of San Diego sunshine by staying active as a family and creating healthy habits that last all year — and into adulthood. Contrary to popular belief, play or exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous in order to positively influence health. Activities such as playing on a playground, running, team sports and riding bikes are beneficial.

20 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

Physical play helps improve sleep, selfconfidence and self-esteem, strengthen bones, manage stress, and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease; it also improves social and emotional skills. There is really no downside to play! Here are eight ways to encourage family fitness through playtime: Focus on fun! Choose activities your kids already enjoy, such as playing at the park, taking bike rides, ice skating or playing sports. Lead by example. Make exercise (or outdoor play) a priority in your life and let your kids see you enjoying physical activity.

Choose active toys. Provide bikes, scooters, balls or sand toys that encourage activity—versus electronics, toys or games that can only be used at home. Create boundaries around screen time. Screen time is a big reason that kids do not get enough physical activity. Use the AAP Family Media Use Plan to help your family decide on screen time use. Access the plan in English and Spanish at www.healthychildren.org. Try new activities together. Visit a new park or try a new sport together (fencing or aerial silks, anyone?) to increase family bonding. It could become a favorite!

Make your family’s health a priority! Find pediatricians, dentists and many family fitness opportunities in this issue and in our annual Health & Wellness Guide at www.sandiegofamily.com/resources/family-health-and-home.

Get exercise while doing another activity. Walking around the zoo, San Diego Bay or Balboa Park is a fun way to take a long walk without focusing on exercise. Let your kids take turns picking the family activity. Kids are more likely to participate when involved in scheduling a favorite activity. Make play part of your routine. It’s easier to stick to new habits when you attach them to something you already do. For example, a family walk after dinner, a family trip to the park on weekend mornings, or a monthly date to

explore a new hiking trail. Even if you only have 10 minutes, it’s worth taking the time to play together, and you’re more likely to follow through when it’s on the calendar. If you’re looking for a fun way to incorporate physical activity into your weekly routine, try Walk with a Doc, a nonprofit with over 400 chapters across the country. The Carlsbad chapter meets at Stagecoach Park every Tuesday at 4 p.m. and is dedicated to helping families become healthier together. It’s free for the whole family and a healthy snack is always provided. Walks are also available

near downtown San Diego. Learn more at www.walkwithadoc.org. v Dr. Natalie Muth, a pediatrician and registered dietitian, and Cassandra Padgett, a health coach, lead the W.E.L.L. Clinic at Children’s Primary Care Medical Group-La Costa. Get tons of ideas for fun family adventures in Family Magazine’s annual publication Out & About with Kids at www.sandiegofamily.com/ things-to-do/out-about. January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

This month marks one year of

CANNABIS UPDATE

How Changing Attitudes Impact Local Youth Anne Malinoski

legal recreational cannabis sales in California. While the impact on local youth is hard to calculate, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department hasn’t seen a significant increase in youth marijuana arrests. And the San Diego County Probation Department reports a gradual decrease in youth marijuana referrals over the last two years. As marijuana becomes more accessible, the most concerning effect on young people is a declining perception of the drug’s potential to cause harm.

What the Data Says SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments) reports that in 2007, 42 percent of San Diego youth arrestees said they thought marijuana use was “bad” or “very bad.” By 2017 that number had dropped to 14 percent. When asked if they were more likely to try cannabis now that it’s legal, 67 percent of youth respondents said yes, even though the drug remains illegal for those under age 21. While the survey only collects data from youth in the justice system, it is the only test offering an objective measure of drug use change over time, says Cindy Burke, Ph.D., director of applied research at SANDAG. “Trends we may be seeing with this more risk-taking population could be underreported among youth not in the justice system. Any other data that we have nationally is self-reported, like school surveys,” she says.

Parents: Cannabis remains illegal for individuals under age 21.

22 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

Even school surveys show a downward trend in perception of harm. Take the annual Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey, which is offered to middle and high school students in all states (even where marijuana use remains illegal). “Nationally, disapproval of regular marijuana use is high in 8th, 10th and 12th grades, at 81, 70 and 65 percent, respectively. However, disapproval of trying marijuana and the perception of use as harmful, both continue to decline for all three grades,” says Special Agent Kameron D. Korte, public information officer for the San Diego DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration). When it comes to San Diego youth, local culture may contribute to lower perception of the drug’s potential to cause harm. California was the first state to legalize medicinal marijuana in 1996. Then in 2016, Californians voted to pass Proposition 64, which immediately legalized recreational use, followed by legal recreational sales in January of 2018. While the drug remains illegal at the federal level, local youth have seen legal access to marijuana increase greatly in recent years — legal adult access, that is.

The Dangers Experts contend that marijuana use can harm the developing brain. Cognitive impairment lasts longer in young people than in adults, opening youth to greater risk for car accidents and risky behavior. Regular use can impair learning abilities, attention span and communication skills. In addition, today’s kids are getting much higher doses of THC (the primary psychoactive in cannabis) than previous generations, due to increasing potency and high-dose methods of consumption, like dabbing (inhaling vapors from a concentrated form of marijuana). According to Brian Couey, PsyD, director of outpatient programs at Hazelden Betty Ford Center in San

Tony/Jan 2019

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• Small Class Size • Individualized and Advanced Academic Programs • Emphasis on Science & Mathematics • Incorporating Music, Art, Dance, Drama, Spanish, and Physical Education • WASC Accredited

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www.ccpaasd.com • 619-584-2454 3051 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego 92104

Half-day programs: 2, 3, or 5 days Cost: $45, $65, or $107 per week

• Fletcher Hills Elementary 2330 Center Pl. El Cajon 92020 619 668-5820 (License #376700461)

• Maryland Avenue Elementary 5400 Maryland Ave. La Mesa 91942 619 668-5744 (License #376700136)

La Mesa-Spring Valley Schools Preschool

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We are committed to equal opportunity for all individuals in education.

Education Made Personal The Learning Choice Academy A FREE Personalized Learning School for Grades TK–12 • A credentialed educational partner to assist you • Specialized programs available; AIM, full day, middle and high school options • Funds for enrichment classes • UC approved high school courses • Field trips, internships, teen club

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Call now for our next orientation. 844 GO TO TLC (844-468-6852) Visit www.learningchoice.org for more information. January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Giovanni/Oct 2018

Enroll kids 4 years +

English–Mandarin dual CurriCuluM ElEMEntary sChool GATE STUDENTS, ARE YOU BORED? JOIN US! Call: (760) 294-4490 Text: (858) 205-7263 after 3 pm Email: info@balboaschool.com Website: https://balboaschool.com/

BALBOA SCHOOL BUILDS BI-LITERATE COMPETENCY BY TEACHING ALL SUBJECTS IN BOTH ENGLISH & MANDARIN. Integrated Math program combining California Math with Singapore Math.

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Evangeline Roberts Institute of Learning Preschool, llc 1012 Derby Street Building #4 • San Diego, CA 92114

619-586-1498 • ERILPreschool@gmail.com www.erilpreschool.com • License # 376701295

24 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

Diego, some cannabis users experience lifelong detrimental effects. For those with a predisposition to addiction, recreational use can lead to problematic use. In rare cases, marijuana can activate schizophrenia. “The younger a person uses, the greater the potential for problems later,” says Couey. So, is cannabis a gateway drug? Not necessarily. It’s undeniable that a segment of the population can use the drug recreationally without issue. But the fact remains that an unlucky minority could spiral into a life-altering string of serious addictions. Couey asserts that all the youth undergoing addiction treatment at Hazelden Betty Ford Center have used marijuana. As Burke put it, “Not everyone will go on to something else, but very few people just start using heroin or meth. It’s a step process.”

What Should Parents Do? Parents should remain concerned and diligent, but understand there is probably no need to panic about recent legalization. Learn all you can about vaping, which is popular among young people, and can be extremely hard to trace due to low odor and inconspicuous paraphernalia. Remind your kids that drug use is harmful for developing brains (say it more than once). This is especially important for parents who choose to use cannabis themselves. If the drug is in your home, take extra precautions to prevent your children from using it. “We need to keep having these conversations with our kids,” says Burke. “Just because it’s legal [for adults] doesn’t mean it’s harmless,” she says, adding “You can’t have the conversation too early.” v Anne Malinoski is an award-winning contributing writer and mother of two boys.

Read “Just Say No to Vaping”, our article about the dangers of e-cigarettes at www .sandiegofamily.com/resources/ family-health-and-home.

ealthy, Stay HSan Diego with San Diego Family’s

Health & Wellness Guide

www.sandiegofamily.com/resources/family-health-and-home

Jewish Montessori Preschool in La Jolla • • • • • •

Children ages 9 months to 6 years Proven Montessori Method and Philosophy Learning through hands-on experience Integrated secular and Judaic curriculum Bilingual Program Skilled teachers, trained in early childhood development • Secured, state-of-the-art facilities

Classes are filling up quickly! For more information, contact us at

(858) 452-3030 or info@bethmontessori.com Beth Montessori adheres to the principles of Association Montessori International (AMI)

8660 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037

Tel (858) 452-3030 • Fax (858) 777-9199 •

Tony/Nov 2018

www.bethmontessori.com

Aerial Revolution Youth Cirque Program • Cirque aerial arts inspired classes for children and adults • Designed to introduce the circus arts in a safe and progressive environment • Aerial Silk, Trapeze, Lyra, Chinese Pole, Hammock and Rope

FIRST CLASS IS FREE! 619-220-4909 www.aerialrevolution.com

“A community where every child is known.”

Tuition Free K-12 Public Schools

Lic.# 376600498

Literacy First Charter Schools

Visit our website

www.LFCSINC.org Find us on

“A learning environment that balances the physical, emotional, cognitive, creative, social & emotional needs of your child.”

619-579-7232

Scheduling Tours for the 2019 School Year

www.DMHNS.com 858-755-8338 13692 Mango Drive, Del Mar

Leaders in Early Childhood Education Since 1970

January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Jody Lee Cates

How to Protect Kids from

Anxiety Overload

An anxious parent might decide that the best way to reduce anxiety is to avoid stressful situations. However, avoidance reinforces fear of the unknown and can make things worse. “Show children you’re taking them seriously, but that you’re not afraid. If you’re not anxious about their anxiety, they feel safe,” says de Bruin. Stay calm and encourage kids to practice facing discomfort — a more effective solution in the long term.

Go Back to Basics

Anxiety in kids is on the rise, and

it doesn’t take too much digging to uncover some of the reasons why. With increased pressure inside and outside of the classroom, children’s performance is measured in everything from academics to athletic ability starting as early as preschool. Schedules are packed with little or no time for rest. Face-to-face conversations have been replaced with texting and social media where kids get a steady diet of comparison and competition to get “likes” and be noticed. With these and other factors added to normal stressors of growing up, children need help learning how to safeguard themselves against anxiety overload.

Understanding Anxiety Occasional anxiety is a normal part of life. Starting school, taking tests, learning to drive and public speaking are all examples of everyday events that can trigger the brain’s natural “fight or flight” response to fear. Chemicals are released into the body that cause increased heart rate, muscle tension, sweaty palms and shortness of breath. Situations that cause anxiety happen to everyone. But when fear lingers and

26 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

extends beyond common stressors, kids and families can feel overwhelmed.

Warning Signs Symptoms of anxiety take many forms and look different from child to child, so knowing how your child typically behaves helps parents recognize warning signs. Some kids experience physical symptoms such as loss of appetite, headaches and stomach problems. Others avoid or withdraw from seemingly fearful situations. Angry outbursts or opposition can also indicate increased stress. Watch for changes in behavior or out of the ordinary reactions that might indicate excessive anxiety.

How to Help Anxiety can be contagious in families, so the first line of defense for parents is to manage how they respond to their child’s fears. According to Kathryn de Bruin, a San Diego marriage and family therapist, parents often fall into a negative pattern of becoming anxious when their child is anxious. “A parent’s number one job is to help children regulate and calm themselves because nothing good comes from an anxious brain,” she says.

Be sure everyone is getting enough rest, exercise, nutritious food and fun. Take a look at the family calendar and resist pressure to overcommit — set boundaries and limitations. As kids grow, keep an open line of communication about expectations. Increased expectations without discussion can lead to misperceptions and added stress in older kids and teens, so keep talking about priorities.

Talk it Out Talking uses a different part of the brain than worrying, so it gives troubled minds a rest. But talking about what’s causing anxiety can be hard for kids because it stirs up the negative feelings they’re trying to avoid. My own son struggled with anxiety throughout middle school. I felt helpless as my attempts to get him to talk about his feelings were met with silence. Now a senior in college, I asked what we could have done to make those years better for him. He said simply knowing he had people to talk to helped, even when he didn’t take them up on the offer. You can’t force a conversation, but you can pay attention when kids do want to talk, such as in the car or at bedtime. Let kids share what they want, so they feel comfortable. My son recalls, “Sometimes it was nice to have someone who wanted to talk about normal things and didn’t want to talk about the elephant in the room.” cont. on p.28

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Directly supervising your child’s learning can be a positive family experience. Parents who choose homeschooling enjoy spending quality time with their children. San Diego Neighborhood Homeschools offers a TK-12 charter homeschool program. sdnh.org

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Respond Positively Listen carefully for underlying feelings of inadequacy, fear of failure or rejection and don’t try to talk kids out of feeling anxious. “A cognitive, rational response like ‘There’s no reason to be anxious’ often falls short,” says de Bruin, “because the frontal lobe is not accessible for cognitive logic when the brain is stressed. Instead, stay positive and try saying something like, ‘Oh! I think you’re anxious’ or ‘Sounds like the brain bully is back’ and then give your child some strategies to try.” Distractions such as deep breathing, holding ice cubes or focusing on silence give the brain a break and disrupt the pattern of worry and fear. Movement helps, so encourage kids to stand up and stretch, run in place, do jumping jacks, or go for a walk. Older children can journal their thoughts or create art to express feelings. Touch is therapeutic at every age, so offer a hug or back massage.

Ask a Professional Left unchecked, anxiety can cause low self-esteem, decreased success in school, problems with friends and strain on families. Untreated anxiety disorders can lead to more serious mental and physical health problems. If fear and anxiety persist, talk to your pediatrician — a qualified professional can help. Parents can’t give children a stressfree world, but we can help kids learn to manage increasing pressures of life by equipping them with strategies and safeguards against the harmful effects of prolonged and persistent anxiety. v Jody Lee Cates is a local mom and blogger who writes about healthy relationships at www.jodyleecates.com Find more resources for anxiety at San Diego Kids First (www .sdkidsfirst.com) and Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego (www.SNRFSD.org).

Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hula, Flamenco, Pilates 2 years thru Adult Boys Program Annual Performance Opportunity

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Sponsored Content Alonso Nunez is the Executive Director of Little Fish Comic Book Studio, a comic art studio and advocacy group founded in 2012. A passionate artist and educator, he graduated from the School of Visual Arts in 2009. When not teaching or building the studio, he can be found behind the board, most recently working on the “Attack on Titan” Anthology (Kodansha).

Head of the Class: Educational insights from local administrators

Miss Nancy founded Renaissance Village Academy for children like Mateo, a 6th grader who joined RVA in August. According to his mother, “Mateo has always been a curious child. When he was younger, he loved exploring how things worked. When he started public school, that spark faded and seemed to die. The energy/curiosity he thrived on was not reciprocated until he began at RVA. Within weeks, I saw a return of my engaged, inquisitive boy who I knew was still in there. That engagement is still strong half a year in. Enrolling him with Miss Nancy and her child-centric instructors was the best decision I could have made.” Miss Nancy designed RVA to be a safe space for quirky, curious, gifted children, at intellectually appropriate levels not limited by age. The program meets both the academic and social/emotional needs of students who don’t always ﬁt expectations. Standards are the base, but not the limit, of lessons. Each week includes music, art, gardening, and karate. Miss Nancy

Renaissance Village Academy 10625 Scripps Ranch Blvd. Suite A San Diego, CA 92131 858.564.9622 info@RVAschool.org RVAschool.org

RVA: This is the school you wish you’d gone to.

Miss Caroline Rose Caroline Rose, our Director, comes full circle as she was a Pre-Kindergartner at Del Mar Hills Nursery School, graduating in 1995! She began teaching at Del Mar Hills Nursery School after graduating from UCLA in

30 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

2011. The school will celebrate its 49th anniversary in 2019 and combines the philosophies of Friedrich Froebel, Reggio Emilia, Maria Montessori, and Orff Schulwerk. Owner Polly Trump has always been inspired to improve the quality of the curriculum and environment, and has attended two study tours in Reggio Emilia, Italy, the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University, Institute for Child Care Design; and collaborated with educators worldwide at the Working Forum on Nature Education. Polly began her career at Del Mar Hills Nursery School in 1977 as a teacher’s aide and was mentored by the founder of the school, Ursula Waddell.

Ursula built the educational foundation of the school upon the elements of Froebel (17821852), founder of Kindergarten, and graduated from the Froebel Seminar in Kassel, Germany in 1953. Polly Trump took ownership of the school in 1997 and is thrilled to have one of her previous students as the Director!

Del Mar Hills Nursery School (858) 755-8338

13692 Mango Drive, Del Mar

Visit our website

www.DMHNS.com

Sponsored Content Students at LdVCS are valued as first-hand inquirers and producers of knowledge. Leonardo da Vinci embodies the habits of mind fostered in each student. He was a true Renaissance man who interpreted, challenged and dissected knowledge. A master painter, sculptor, mathematician, scientist and writer, Leonardo da Vinci’s ingenuity and passion for ideas make him an exemplary role model for our students. “For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return.” ~Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo Da Vinci Health Sciences Charter School • 619-301-2075 An award-winning TK-8 public school in East Village developing students who are active, creative, empathetic, confident, and ready to lead. Students solve real world problems in the community and experience daily enrichment including PE, STEAM, Visual Arts, and Performing Arts. Spots open now in various grades. Priority applications for our lottery are due by February 28!

URBAN DISCOVERY ACADEMY • URBANSD.COM MBMA is celebrating its 50th year of education. After moving locations three times to accommodate growth, we have been in University City since 1985 – and several of our teachers have been with us at all campuses! There is a special environment at MBMA where the parents, students and teachers are all a close knit community. This has created generations of well-rounded students, with a Montessori curriculum enhanced by special pull-out classes: Art, Chinese, Computer, Music, P.E., Science and Spanish. We are proud of our alumni and look forward to 50 more years! 2640 Soderblom Ave., San Diego, CA 92122 • www.mbmacademy.com

CITY TREE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL • K-8TH GRADE, PRESCHOOL, INFANTS

Sue Kennedy, Principal

City Tree Christian School educates the whole child: mind, body, and spirit. Our curriculum and instruction motivate academic excellence, while providing a framework through which students embrace the arts, creative expression, digital literacy, and physical fitness. Our diverse downtown learning environment fosters strong civic and leadership values as well as allows children a rich cultural experience both inside and outside the classroom.

America’s Finest Charter is a TK-12 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) School. Our curriculum is cutting edge and provides handson learning and student collaboration in all subjects. Our diverse, supportive community helps students become ethical and compassionate leaders who can achieve their American Dream. We are now accepting students for the 2018-2019 school year. Please go to our website or call for more information.

Jan Perry, Director with students.

Head of the Class: Educational insights from local administrators

Josh Stepner – Director

www.americasfinestcharterschool.org • 619-694-4809 January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

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32 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

Discover the World of Montessori

According to Dr. Maria Montessori, children learn best in an environment that demonstrates love, trust, understanding, patience and consistency. Students excel academically while experiencing cooperation, respect, self-confidence and the joy of learning. Contact these local Montessori schools for more information.

“A Montessori Student is a Future Citizen of the World” North County Coastal CENTRAL MONTESSORI SCHOOL Toddler/Preschool/Kindergarten Lic. #376700910

Encinitas, Cardiff, Carlsbad, La Costa

760-479-9889

www.cmpreschool.com

East County

ENCINITAS COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL Preschool/Elementary/Middle

MONTESSORI ACHIEVEMENT CENTRE Preschool/Kindergarten

Two Locations in Encinitas Encinitas

10435 Campo Rd., Spring Valley 91978 Rancho San Diego

www.ecdschools.org

www.mackids.net

MONTESSORI LEARNING ACADEMY Preschool / Kindergarten

MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE OF LEMON GROVE Toddler/Preschool

San Marcos, Vista, Escondido, Imperial Beach

8121 Braddock Place, San Diego 92114 Lemon Grove

North County Inland

www.MCHLG.com

COUNTRY MONTESSORI SCHOOL Preschool/Kindergarten/Elementary

Lic. #372005943

Lic. #376600356

760-942-1111

619-442-2552

Lic. #376700980

760-750-0352

Lic. #376614702

619-825-5557

MONTESSORI DISCOVERY SCHOOL First Step/Preschool/Kindergarten

San Diego Coastal

8559 Fanita Dr., Santee 92071 Santee, San Carlos, Fletcher Hills

BETH MONTESSORI Infants/Toddler/Preschool/Kindergarten

www.montessoridiscoveryschool.org

8660 Gilman Dr., La Jolla 92037-2202 La Jolla

Lic. #376600555

619-449-1187

South Bay

www.countrymontessori.org

858-452-3030

SCRIPPS MONTESSORI SCHOOL Toddler/Preschool/Elementary

www.bethmontessori.com MISSION BAY MONTESSORI ACADEMY Preschool/Elementary

3604 Bonita Road, Chula Vista 91910 Bonita, Chula Vista & Eastlake

2640 Soderblom Ave., San Diego 92122 La Jolla, Pacific Beach, University City

www.montessoriamerican.com

www.mbmacademy.com

619-422-1220

858-673-1756

Lic. # 376700496

MONTESSORI AMERICAN SCHOOL Toddler/Preschool/Kindergarten Lic. #370805837

Lic # 372006093

12642 Monte Vista Road, Poway, CA 92064 Poway, Rancho Bernardo, 4SRanch, Scripps Ranch, Rancho Penasquitos

Lic. #372005444 • AMS Affiliated School

Lic. # 370801839

9939 Old Grove Rd., San Diego 92131 Scripps Ranch

858-566-3632

www.scrippsmontessori.com

858-457-5895

“Early childhood education is the key to the betterment of society.” - Maria Montessori

GET ORGANIZED MONTH • SKATING MONTH • SOUP MONTH

JANUARY Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.

tuesday | 1 New Year’s Day SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. Highlights include Rudolph’s Movie Experience, Journey of the Three Kings show (today until Jan. 6), Santa’s Christmas Village and live shows such as O Wondrous Night, Dolphin Island Christmas and more. Through Jan. 6; visit website for hours and admission. Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr., San Diego. www.seaworldsandiego.com Ice Skating at Viejas Casino & Resort. Experience Southern California’s largest outdoor ice skating rink. Today-Jan. 6, 11-13, 18-21 & 25-27; visit website for hours. $14-$16. Viejas Outlet Center, 5003 Willows Rd., Alpine. www.viejas.com/ice-rink New Year’s Day Champagne Brunch Cruise. Welcome the New Year with an unforgettable cruise that includes a buffet with seasonal dishes and decadent desserts, breathtaking views of scenic San Diego and free-flowing champagne and sparkling cider. Noon-2 pm. Reservations required. Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr., downtown San Diego. www.hornblower.com Jungle Bells. Guests are treated to seasonal decorations, animal experiences, lighted displays and live entertainment. Through Jan. 6; zoo open from 9 am-8 pm. Included with admission. Balboa Park. www.sandiegozoo.org

Jennifer A. Burman

Still looking for last month’s events? Check out the digital edition of our December issue at SanDiegoFamily.com

Plan fun family adventures with Out & About with Kids! Access the digital edition at www.sandiegofamily.com.

Skating by the Sea. Skate on a magnificent beachfront ice rink that offers awesome views of the Pacific. Until today; visit website for hours. $30. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Make-AWish San Diego. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave. www.hoteldel.com

wednesday | 2 Motivation & Inspiration Day

Holidays at LEGOLAND. See the world’s largest LEGO Christmas tree, have your photo taken with a life-size LEGO brick Santa and reindeer, watch a holiday show featuring the LEGO Friends, munch on holiday treats and more. Until today; visit website for hours and admission. LEGOLAND California Resort, Carlsbad. www.legoland.com

The Sky Tonight: New Horizons Mission Flyby. Images of Pluto from July 2015 were from the New Horizons spacecraft. Come to this monthly planetarium show and learn about the latest results from the New Horizons mission to the outer solar system. 7 & 8:15 pm. $17.95-$19.95. For ages 6 & up. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org

Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station. Enjoy outdoor ice skating, and help support kids undergoing cancer treatment. Through Jan. 6, 10 am-10 pm. $13-$15 includes skate rental and helmets. Net proceeds benefit psychosocial services in the Rady Children’s Hospital’s Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. www.radychildrensicerink.org

Reverberate: Sound & Image. View student art that tackles musical impacts and looks into ways students perceive sounds. This annual youth exhibition showcases K-12 students from San Diego County and Tijuana. Through Jan. 9. Tues.Sun., 10 am-5 pm. Pay What You Wish admission. Museum of Photographic Arts, Balboa Park. www.mopa.org

Editor’s Picks San Diego Sunroad Marina Boat Show

Waves of fun abound on San Diego Bay! See an impressive display of boats of all shapes and sizes, take free boat rides, attend boating seminars, check out the latest nautical products and services, and more. Jan. 24 & 25, noon-6 pm; Jan. 26 & 27, 10 am-6 pm. $15; ages 12 & under free. Also, military, EMTs, police and fire personnel receive free admission today & tomorrow with valid ID. Harbor Island, 955 Harbor Island Dr. www.bigbayboatshow.com

34 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

Calendar • January

FREE Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade

Celebrate the legacy of one of the nation’s most beloved civil rights icons at this annual parade in downtown San Diego featuring floats, high school bands, drill teams, peace and youth organizations, churches, colleges and more. Jan. 20, 2-5 pm. For parade route, visit www.alpha-zsl.org/mlkparade.html. Photo courtesy of Photosbyisaac

San Diego Resolution Run 5K/15K/Half Marathon

Time to shed those holiday pounds! Head down to Tecolote Shores in Mission Bay and take steps to live a fit lifestyle at this annual event that also offers a post-race Wellness Village with freebies and services that will help you and your family make this year your healthiest yet! Jan. 13, 7:15 am-noon. Register at www.resolutionrun.com.

January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Calendar • January thursday | 3 Mythbusters: The Explosive Exhibition. The Discovery Channel’s Emmy-nominated series comes to life to uncover truths behind popular myths by mixing scientific method with old-fashioned ingenuity. Through Jan. 6. Open daily; visit website for hours and admission. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org

Michele/Jan 2019

friday | 4 Holiday by the Bay. Enjoy San Diego’s only two-story, 100-foot ice tubing slide, ice bumper cars, nightly snow flurries, an interactive light show and more. Tonight & tomorrow, 5-11 pm. Visit website for tickets. Hilton San Diego Bayfront, Bayfront Park, 1 Park Blvd., downtown San Diego. www.hiltonholidaybythebay.com

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VISIT US FOR A FREE TRIAL ART CLASS! 36 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

Go, Gulls! The San Diego Gulls will play against the San Jose Sharks tonight at 7 pm. Other home games this month: Jan. 16 (vs. Texas) & Jan. 19 (vs. Bakersfield). Pechanga Arena San Diego, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., San Diego. For tickets and game times, visit www.sandiegogulls.com.

saturday | 5 Kids Workshop: Easel with Whiteboard. You and your child can build an easel and decorate it with paint and stickers in this hands-on workshop. Kids can receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron and a commemorative pin (while supplies last). 9 am-noon. Register at www.homedepot.com/workshops. San Diego Sockers Home Games. Experience indoor soccer at its finest, and cheer for the San Diego Sockers as they play against Ontario Fury at 7:05 pm. Also, Jan. 11, 7:35 pm (vs. Ontario Fury); Jan. 13, 5:05 pm (vs. El Paso Coyotes); Jan. 20, 5:05 pm (vs. Turlock Express). Pechanga Arena San Diego, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., San Diego. For tickets, visit www.axs.com.

sunday | 6 FREE Family Fun Days: Home Away From Home. Each winter, millions of birds fly along the western coastline of North America to and from breeding grounds. At the San Elijo Lagoon, it’s home away from home, with a protected place to rest and refuel. 11:30 am-1:30 pm. San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center,

Simply the

2710 Manchester Ave., Cardiff-by-the-Sea. www.sanelijo.org/familyfun

monday | 7 FREE Hullabaloo Family Market. Live music, art projects, food, face painting and more. 10 am-1 pm. San Dieguito Heritage Ranch, 450 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas. www.hullabalooband.com

tuesday | 8 Bubble Bath Day Hidden Gems. This all-new “deconstructed” exhibition highlights more than 100 stunning objects from the museum’s mineralogy collection. Open daily; visit website for hours. Included with admission. San Diego Natural History Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdnat.org

wednesday | 9 Accordions: Expanding Voices in the USA. This new exhibit explores the current state of the accordion across the country, featuring stories and recordings from some of the players pushing it forward. Discover where the accordion could be headed next and even play one yourself. Tues.-Sun., 10 am-5 pm. $7-$10; ages 3 & under free. Museum of Making Music, 5790 Armada Dr., Carlsbad. www.museumofmakingmusic.org

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friday | 11 Milk Day San Diego Junior Theatre’s “Peter and the Starcatcher.” Based on the

Directors: Stevenfor and Elizabeth Wistrich Former Dance Register Fall Classes Now! Artists with Boston Ballet and Stuttgart Ballet

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AFTER SCHOOL COMIC ARTS CLASSES A SAN DIEGO ORIGINAL

Learn the Language of Graphic Storytelling and Speak with Art! From beginning idea to scanned-in art, Little Fish and our pool of instructors will guide you in telling your story in any genre and style you want! Our enrichment classes not only help students with their creativity and artistic skills, but also with their writing, visualization, conceptualization, problem solving, and completion techniques all of which help to boost overall academic and future career success.

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Tony/Jan 2019/cr

thursday | 10 Nature & Me Story Time: Ocean Adventures. 10:15 am. Free with museum admission. Recommended for ages 1-5. San Diego Natural History Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdnat.org

Photo by Dale Stokes

Family Drop-in Day: Discovering Modern Art. Go on family-friendly, docent-led tours, participate in art projects inspired by the museum’s collection and play gallery games. 1-3 pm. Free with museum admission. Recommended for families with children ages 6-12. The San Diego Museum of Art, Balboa Park. www.sdmart.org

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38 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

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Calendar • January

Tony/Dec 2018

Unforgettable Birthday Experiences Happen Every Day at San Diego Ice Arena!

best-selling novels, this magical, musical adaptation upends the century-old tale of how a miserable orphan boy becomes the legendary Peter Pan. Tonight & Jan. 18, 7 pm; tomorrow, Jan. 13, 19 & 20, 2 pm. Visit website for tickets. Casa del Prado Theatre, Balboa Park. www.juniortheatre.com

Your Child is the

• Personal Skate Host • Live DJ • Pizza, Cake, Ice Cream Sandwiches Exclusive Games and Award Medal • Decorate Your Own Cake • Free Group Skating Lesson

TERI Players’ “Cirque Unique.” Catch this production featuring this theatre troupe made up of actors and musicians with special needs as well as talented staff from TERI. 7-8:30 pm. General admission: $10-$20. Star Theatre, 402 N. Coast Hwy., Oceanside. www.teriinc.org/events/ teri-players-event

Book Your Birthday Party Now! 11048 Ice Skate Place, Mira Mesa • (858) 530-1825 • sdice.com

Pick up

your FREE copy at

saturday | 12

Ralphs • Albertsons • McDonald’s Party City • Sombrero Mexican Food

FREE Family Activities at Renaissance Village Academy: Sudoku & Binario. 3-5 pm. 10625 Scripps Ranch Blvd., Ste. A, San Diego. www.rvaschool.org Kids in the Garden: Animal Homes & Garden Habitats. Learn about the homes that animals make and explore the gardens to find their habitats in nature. 10 amnoon. $5. Pre-registration required. Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista. www.altavistabotanicalgardens .org; 760-822-6824.

and more than 1,500 other family locations San Diego Family Magazine

Visit the Children’s Nature Retreat. Visit this ranch-style retreat with more than 120 domesticated livestock and exotic animals from around the globe. See website for hours and to book

San Diego Family

sandiegofamilymagazine

Editor’s Picks Inside Look at SeaWorld San Diego

Photo courtesy of SeaWorld San Diego

sunday | 13

/SDFamily

www.SanDiegoFamily.com • 619.685.6970

“Disney’s Newsies, Jr.” by JCompany Youth Theatre. Follow the story of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a ragged band of teenaged “newsies,” who dreams of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. Tonight, Jan. 19 & 26, 8 pm; tomorrow, Jan. 20 & 27, 1 & 4:30 pm. $17-$25. David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre, 4126 Executive Dr., La Jolla. www.sdcjc.org/jc FREE Star Party. Join MTRP trail guide and resident stargazer, George Varga, and his telescope for a star-studded evening. 5-8 pm. Meet at the far end of the Kumeyaay Lake Campground’s Day Use lot. Mission Trails Regional Park, Two Father Junipero Serra Trail, Santee. www.mtrp.org

STAR of the Party!

Have a splashing time as you go behind the scenes at SeaWorld! Visit six areas in the park where trainers and keepers talk about why play is important, how play is incorporated into the daily lives of the animals, and how play and learning are interconnected. Jan. 12, 13, 19-21, 26 & 27; visit website for park hours and admission. Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr. www .seaworldsandiego.com

January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Calendar • January your visit. Single-day passes $15-$25; under 2 free. 5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine. www.childrensnatureretreat.org San Diego Sockers Home Games. See Jan. 5. San Diego Resolution Run 5K/15K/Half Marathon. See page 35.

monday | 14 “Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation.” Watch this IMAX film and travel across the globe to experience active volcanoes, lava lakes and undersea volcanoes, discover molten worlds and exploding craters, witness never-before-seen footage from the 2018 Kilauea eruption in Hawaii and more. Showing daily; visit website for times and admission. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.

tuesday | 15 Mindful Family Night. Come to an interactive presentation about mindfulness in parenting with John Allcock, and enjoy an introduction to yoga for kids, a mindful music class with Seed and Song, and a take-home craft for kids. 5-7 pm. $8. All ages welcome. San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.sdcdm.org

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40 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

WE OFFER BIRTHDAY PARTIES! CELEBRATING 25 Years in the Poway community

FREE Family Read & Play Day. Children, ages 5 & under, are sure to get excited about reading through story time, playtime with the imagination playground and a free book to take home. 10:30-11:30 am. Rolando Rm., The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 6605 University Ave., San Diego. www.sd.kroccenter.org

wednesday | 16 FREE Kids Zumba. Children, grades K-3, can have fun getting fit while learning cool dance moves. 3:30 pm. Santee Branch Library, 9225 Carlton Hills Blvd. #17. www.sdcl.org

thursday | 17 Kid Inventors’ Day

FREE Hullabaloo Performances. Catch this award-winning musical duo perform high-energy, foot-stomping music for kids.

Today, 10 am at North Park Library (3795 31st St.) & Jan. 25, 10:30 am at CollegeRolando Library (6600 Montezuma Rd.). www.hullabalooband.com

Book your birthday party now

friday | 18

thru January 31, 2019 and receive

$30 off

Pet Pals. This delightful class for ages 6-11 includes a lesson, activity and animal interaction. 4:30-5:30 pm. $10 per child. To register, call or email slhurley@ sdhumane.org. San Diego Humane Society’s San Diego Campus, 5500 Gaines St. www.sdhumane.org; 619-299-7012, ext. 2256.

Includes free Dippin’ Dots for the guest of honor. Must mention San Diego Family Magazine to redeem offer. One per party.

• 2 Hours of Jump + Party Time • Personal Altitude Trampoline Park® Party Host • Party Set Up + Clean Up

saturday | 19

• Access to All Park Attractions • Altitude Safety Socks Included

Parent’s Nite Out at Elite Gymnastics Academy: Movie Night. Kids, ages 4 & up, have a great time with gymnastics, games and lots of play. 6-10 pm. $20. Register online. 1817 John Towers Ave., El Cajon. www.elitegymnastics.com

• 1 FREE Jump Pass for the Birthday Boy/Girl • 1 FREE Altitude T-Shirt

Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND. Join this 1-mile fun run for kids of all ages and abilities. Each finisher will receive a finisher’s medal and be treated to refreshments and entertainment. Registered participants, ages 3-13, will also receive free, one-day admission to LEGOLAND and SEA LIFE Aquarium, and up to four adults can join them for 40% off admission. 8 am; diaper dash, 9 am. $25-$30. www.inmotionevents.com/event/ kids-marathon Monster Jam. The most action-packed motorsports experience for families in the world returns to San Diego with a new level of high-flying, four-wheel excitement, featuring high-octane events of racing, two-wheel skills and freestyle competitions. Tonight & Jan. 26, 7 pm; Pit Party, 2:30-5:30 pm. Tickets start at $15. Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd., downtown San Diego. www.monsterjam.com Tidepooling Adventures. Explore the wonderful world of tide pools with trained naturalists in La Jolla. Today, 1-3 pm at Dike Rock & tomorrow, 2-4 pm at False Point. $18. Advance registration required. For ages 2 & up; ages 13 & under must be accompanied by a paid adult. www.aquarium.ucsd.edu Go, Gulls! See Jan. 4.

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Calendar • January sunday | 20 Cheese Lovers Day FREE Family Sunday Pop-Up Hosted by Mingei International Museum. Musical performances (2:30 pm), storytelling (1 pm) and interactive activities. 12:30-5 pm. Logan Heights Library, 567 S. 28th St. www.mingei.org

San Diego Junior Theatre’s “Peter and the Starcatcher.” See Jan. 11.

FREE Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade. See page 35.

CMY

monday | 21

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Hugging Day “Ocean Commotion” Family Day highlights specimens, activities and crafts that celebrate local tide pools and the Pacific Ocean. 11 am. Free with museum admission. San Diego Natural History Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdnat.org Ice Skating at Viejas Casino & Resort. See Jan. 1.

tuesday | 22 Winter Whale-Watching Cruises. Pass sea lions and pods of leaping dolphins as you search for the legendary gray whales. Also meet on-board naturalists from the San Diego Natural History Museum. Through April. 9:30 am-1 pm & 1:30-5 pm. Reservations required. Pier 2, 970 N. Harbor Dr., downtown San Diego. www.hornblower.com

COME CURIOUS, LEAVE INSPIRED. Explore interactive exhibits, come face-to-face with exciting creatures, and get hands-on at outdoor touch pools with stunning ocean views.

FREE Rock Academy Art Gallery. View this exhibit of students’ individual and collaborative pieces. Today until Jan. 25, 7 am-6 pm. Rock Church and Academy, 2277 Rosecrans St., San Diego. www.rockacademy.org

wednesday | 23 Pie Day

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OPEN DAILY 9 A.M. - 5 P.M. AQUARIUM.UCSD.EDU 858.534.FISH

42 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

FREE Kroc Fit Kids Family Night. Includes a fitness-oriented activity and healthy snacks. 6-7 pm. The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 6845 University Ave., San Diego. www.sd.kroccenter.org

thursday | 24 ”Disney on Ice Presents Dare to Dream.” Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse take audiences on an expedition across raging seas and snow-covered mountains in this actionpacked extravaganza with characters from Disney’s Moana, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Tangled and Cinderella. Tonight & tomorrow, 7 pm; Jan. 26, 11 am, 3 & 7 pm; Jan. 27, 1 & 5 pm. Pechanga Arena San Diego, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. Tickets at www.axs.com. FREE Family Arts & Literacy Night: The Portrait of My Song. This year’s SDSU Performing Arts Troupe production will ignite children’s imaginations through art and music. Explore the many ways music, visual art, songs and poetry combine to create a unique production. 6:30-8 pm. Rolando Rm., The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 6605 University Ave., San Diego. www.sd.kroccenter.org San Diego Sunroad Marina Boat Show. See page 34.

friday | 25 Oddities: Hidden Heroes of the Scripps Collections. This comic book-inspired exhibit is about all the amazing things that marine creatures do each day, from super vision and invisibility to protective armor and the ability to create electricity to zap prey. Open daily, 9 am-5 pm. Included with admission. Birch Aquarium at Scripps, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. www.aquarium.ucsd.edu FREE Hullabaloo Performances. See Jan. 17.

saturday | 26 Food and Water Bowl XXVII. Featuring a competition with up to 450 pedigree cats as well as household pet cats, feline agility, cat adoptions, the Favorite Stuffed Animal Contest for ages 12 & under (1 pm), the Meow Mall and more. Today, 10 am-5 pm & tomorrow, 9 am-5 pm. $7-$9; under 6 free with adult. Exhibit Hall, Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.sandiegocat.org FREE Santee Active Lifestyle Expo. Watch professional athletes compete during the USATF National 50-Kilometer Racewalk Championships, take on extreme obstacle courses, see BMX trick shows, browse vendors and participate in health and wellness activities. 10 am-1 pm. Santee Trolley Square, 9884 Mission Gorge Rd. www.cityofsanteeca.gov Monster Jam. See Jan. 19.

FUN FOR ALL AGES

In Balboa Park

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January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Pottery Painting, Candle Making & More! Great Party Packages! • Birthdays • Bridal • Scout Troops • Mommy Groups • Church Groups

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Calendar • January sunday | 27 FREE Family Discovery Walk. Let the kids revel in the wonder and beauty of nature on this guided walk. 3-4:30 pm. Meet at the Visitor Center. Mission Trails Regional Park, One Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Diego. www.mtrp.org EcoVivarium Living Museum. See reptiles, amphibians and arthropods, and enjoy hands-on encounters with animal ambassadors. Wed.-Fri., noon-5 pm; Sat., 10 am-5 pm; Sun., 10 am-3:30 pm. $8-$10. 136 S. Juniper St., Escondido. www.ecovivarium.org Inside Look at SeaWorld San Diego. See page 39. “Disney’s Newsies, Jr.” by JCompany Youth Theatre. See Jan. 12.

monday | 28 It’s Electric. This new exhibit lets you learn about fundamental principles of electricity by participating in a series of interactive experiences and live demonstrations. Become a human “battery,” handle a plasma tube, operate a telegraph, watch live Tesla coil demos and more. Open daily; visit website for hours. $19.95-$21.95. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org

tuesday | 29 Visit the USS Midway Museum, a historic aircraft carrier with more than 60 exhibits, 29 restored aircraft and family-friendly activities. Open daily, 10 am-5 pm. Visit website for admission. 910 N. Harbor Dr., downtown San Diego. www.midway.org

wednesday | 30 FREE Lunar New Year Celebration. Welcome the Year of the Pig with lion dancers, crafts and more. 4-7 pm. San Marcos Branch Library, 2 Civic Center Dr. www.sdcl.org

thursday | 31 Inspire Your Heart with Art Day

www.FunBelievablePlay.com

44 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

“Wonders of the Arctic.” This 3D film tells the story of survival in one of the most unforgiving environments on Earth, dominated by a single element: ice. Explore how humans

and animals have adapted and thrived for thousands of years in the vast ice wilderness of the Arctic. Through Feb. 17; visit website for show times. Included with museum admission. San Diego Natural History Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdnat.org

Weekly Activities Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.

saturdays/sundays Young Scientists: The Human Body. This hands-on program for ages 3-5 offers informal learning experiences that support exploration and facilitate scientific discoveries. Thursdays, Saturdays or Sundays, 9-10 am. Also, Sundays, 11 am-noon. Next session starts Jan. 10. $85 per session. Preregistration required. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org FREE Crafts at the Lakeshore Learning Store. For ages 3 & up. Saturdays, 11 am-3 pm. Jan. 5: Penguin Pal; Jan. 12: Snowy Scene; Jan. 19: “Live the Dream” Dreamer; Jan. 26: Everyone Fits In. 7510 Hazard Center Dr., San Diego & 702 Center Dr., San Marcos. www.lakeshorelearning.com FREE Nature Walks at Silver Strand State Beach. During this one-hour walking tour, check out animals and plants in various habitats of the state beach. Sundays, 1:30-2:30 pm. All ages welcome; kids must be accompanied by an adult. Meet outside the lifeguard headquarters. 5000 Hwy. 75, Coronado. www.parks.ca.gov/silverstrand

mondays FREE Bouncing Baby Story Time. Mondays, 9:45 am. Bonita-Sunnyside Branch Library, 4375 Bonita Rd. www.sdcl.org

tuesdays Residents FREE Tuesdays. San Diego City and county residents, and active military and their dependents receive free admission on rotating Tuesdays at Balboa Park’s museums. For schedule, visit www.balboapark.org. FREE Milk & Cookies Story Time. Fun stories, music and treats. Tuesdays, 6-7

THE MARKETPLACE

pm. Vista Branch Library, 700 Eucalyptus Ave. www.sdcl.org FREE Walk with a Doc. Join Dr. Natalie Muth, a local pediatrician and registered dietitian, for a stroll and a short talk about strategies to become a healthy and fit family. Tuesdays, through Feb. 19, 4-5 pm. Stagecoach Community Park, 3420 Camino de los Coches, Carlsbad. www.facebook.com/walkwithadoccarlsbad

wednesdays Parent Movie Morning & Baby’s Night Out at UltraStar Cinemas. Bring your baby to see a movie and take advantage of valet stroller parking, dimmed lights and changing facilities in the auditorium. Wednesdays; Parent Movie Morning, 10 am; Baby’s Night Out, 7 pm. UltraStar Mission Valley Cinemas at Hazard Center, 7510 Hazard Center Dr., San Diego. www.ultrastarmovies.com

Ramona/June 2018

LOCAL BLOGGERS

WANTED

Do you have a blog about special needs, kid-friendly science projects, cute crafts or edible treats? If so, let’s start a conversation! Please email your blog url to editor@sandiegofamily.com with a little about yourself.

Young Scientists: The Human Body. See Saturdays/Sundays.

fridays ScholarShare 529 Toddler Time. Music, movement and social play for little ones. Fridays, 10 am. Free with museum admission. The New Children’s Museum, 200 West Island Ave., downtown San Diego. www.thinkplaycreate.org Want us to spread the news? Send us an event, class or weekly activity you would like included in our magazine. Please email jenny@SanDiegoFamily.com and include the name of the event or activity, a brief description, event address, date, time, cost, contact number and website. Submission does not guarantee publication. Deadline for the March issue: February 1.

for Kids

Creative, fun parties for kids 2 & up, in your home, yard or park. Crafts at preschools & camps too!

We bring everything & clean up! We can theme a craft to fit your party! • Wooden Yard Decorations • Jewelry Holders • Canvas Tote Bags ... and More!

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thursdays Trains Plus Garden Arts & Crafts. Watch motorman-engineer James run his trains on a miniature railroad, and listen to various train whistles. Thursdays, 10-11 am. Children can also make their own train or other masterpiece on the arts and crafts table from 10-11:30 am. For ages 1-6. Free with admission. Seeds of Wonder, San Diego Botanic Garden, 230 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas. www.sdbgarden.org

Craft Parties

We Do Large Events Also!

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January 2019 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Winter Got You Down? 11 Ways to Nourish Your Spirit Got the winter blahs? You’re not alone. With the holidays behind us, and cooler days ahead, this time of year can be rough, especially for women. Banish winter blues with these nourishing self-care tips.

Rest. Taking time to rest is good for your health — and can help protect you from flu, colds and other winter ailments. Treat yourself to a nap, early bedtime, or simply close your eyes for 15 minutes.

Christa Melnyk Hines

together will make a difference in your outlook. Give. Big or small, doing something kind for someone is always uplifting. Surprise an acquaintance with a thoughtful note, mail a funny card to a friend, volunteer for an organization you admire or deliver dessert to a new neighbor.

r Tip: Pay for the customer behind you in the drive-thru or at your favorite coffee shop. Exercise. Take a walk. Fresh air, sunlight and time in nature can effectively lift a damp mood.

r Tip: Healthy living includes feeding your body well. Choose colorful berries, winter vegetables and comforting soups.

r Tips: Are worries keeping you awake? Write them in a journal daily, along with three things you’re grateful for. Spray lavender essential oil mixed with water on your pillow before bed.

Play. Have an impromptu dance party with the kids, plan a game night or do a Pinterest project together.

Collect inspiration. Keep feel-good comments people share with you and read them when you’re down. Make a Pinterest board with things that raise your spirits, such as inspiring quotes or comforting recipes.

page 20 and find fun craft ideas at www.sandiegofamily.com/for-the-kids/ crafts-for-kids.

r Tip: Start a Joy Jar. Include notes from

friends, favorite photos, uplifting quotes, funny quips from the kids and daily gratitudes. Disconnect. A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that emotionally charged posts on social media can influence mood. If you feel bummed or drained after spending time on social media, unfollow negative individuals or groups, disable constant news notifications, and be aware of the types of posts you click and share.

r Tip: Take weekly social media

sabbaths and establish daily time limits to regain control. Curb social media use by downloading an app like Space, Freedom or App Detox. Get away. Plan a trip to buoy low spirits. Get great destination ideas at www .sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/travel.

46 • SanDiegofamily.com • January 2019

r Tip: Get more family play ideas on r Tip: If you don’t have time for extended travel, schedule an overnight retreat somewhere to recharge.

Read. From inspiring memoirs, humorous essays to page-turning novels, curl up with a book and a warm beverage.

r Tip: Follow your favorite authors online for quick hits of inspiration.

Relax. A warm, soothing bath with candles and lavender Epsom salts is a nice way to relax.

r Tip: Create a playlist of relaxing

music. Listening even a few minutes a day interrupts the loop of negative, anxietyprovoking thoughts. Spend time with friends. Good conversation that goes beyond small talk provides a strong sense of connection with others — and it’s good for you. Time with friends helps boost immune systems and decrease stress. Bonus: being with people who make you laugh out loud helps.

r Tip: Contact a friend today to schedule coffee, breakfast or lunch. Even an hour

Declutter. Feeling stuck and bogged down? Begin decluttering your home to immediately feel lighter. Start with things that are damaged, don’t fit or no longer bring you joy.

r Tip: Grab a bag and remove something from each room that you’re ready to donate or discard.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects 10 million Americans. Symptoms include feelings of hopelessness, sadness, weight gain, sleepiness, low energy, and withdrawal from social situations. Depression and anxiety are serious health conditions. Consult your physician if feelings persist. v Christa Melnyk Hines is a nationally published freelance writer. She believes nourishing selfcare is key to winter time sanity.

No Join Fee

The Y offers so many activities for families to enjoy! Members can bring the whole family to fun events like Dive-In-Movies, join a yoga class while their kids safely play at Child Watch, or take advantage of discounts on summer day camps, sports leagues and other fun programs.

Join us today and start having the best year ever!

ymca.org/family

Whether you’re starting a family or adding to yours, Palomar Health’s friendly and compassionate OB-GYNs consider you part of our family when you’re here. Palomar Medical Centers in Poway and Escondido have the expertise and knowledge to make every moment of your birth special. Here, we focus on the labor so you can enjoy the delivery...and so much more.

To learn more about Palomar Health’s personalized birth options, visit PalomarHealth.org/BirthCenter or call 800.628.2880.