San Diego Family March 2022 by San Diego Family Magazine

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SanDiegofamily SanDiego family.com .com MARCH 2022

SPRING/SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

ALL ABOARD!

RIDE THE RAILS IN CALIFORNIA

RAISING AVID READERS

Visit the New

Sesame Place

theme Park!

buy an annual pass

and be among the first to ride Be among the first to experience one of the most anticipated roller coasters of 2022, opening on March 12.

only

/month

The all-new EMPEROR – California’s tallest & fastest floorless dive coaster, only at SeaWorld San Diego.

• • • • • • •

• • • • •

in c e 1 9 8 2

in every issue

18 Why We Loved Summer Camp Reflections from adults

10 Publisher’s Letter

24 All Aboard!

Where to ride the rails in California

•

YEARS YEARS YEARS S

articles 20 Raising Avid Readers Resources and tips to encourage reading

•

• • • • • • •

Volume 40 • Number 12 • March 2022

•

Inside

12 Short & Sweet News | Notes | Tips

28 March Calendar of Family Events

So much fun happening this month!

26 What Kids Learn from Collections Surprising benefits you may not know 38 Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Make these beautiful cake pops On the Cover:

Spring/Summer Camp Guide Visit SanDiegoFamily.com

4 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

Secret (7) of Imperial Beach is excited to decorate shamrock cookies for St. Patrick’s Day and attend camp at Fleet Science Center.

Cover photo: All Colors Photography

SanDiegofamily.com

WIN

THIS!

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

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

Resources: Summer Camps & Programs • 10 Tips to Find the Right Day Camp • Is Your Preschooler Ready for Day Camp?

Things to Do: Seasonal Happenings •

St. Patrick’s Day Round-Up

Jersey Mike’s Subs off ers healthy lunch or dinner options for busy families. Jersey Mike’s takes pride in creating subs using lean cuts of high-quality meats and the freshest produce. Try yo ur cold sub, Mike’s Way and taste how a great sub becomes A Sub Above! Enter to win a $50 gif t card for Jersey Mike’s Subs . Contest ends March 31 .

Photo credit: Super Moms 360

Watercolor Shamrock Banner

Leprechaun Bait

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

San Diego Family Magazine sandiegofamilymagazine

6 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

As the public outreach center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, Birch Aquarium features amazing creatures including a rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle, a Giant Pacific Octopus, Leopard Sharks and Moon Jellies. Don’t miss one of the largest seadragon habitats in the world or the outdoor tide pools where guests can touch local creatures while enjoying stunning ocean views. Enter to win a 4-pack of tickets to Birch Aquarium. Contest ends March 31.

397 E Street Chula Vista, CA 91910 2452 Fenton St. Ste 104 Chula Vista, CA 91914

888-983-4333

ChildrensPrimaryDental.com Facebook.com/mygreatdentist

555 S Rancho Santa Fe Rd San Marcos, CA 92078 1310 Third Ave Ste A1 Chula Vista, CA 91911

Most Children and All Teens Can Get COVID-19 Vaccines CDC recommends everyone ages 5 years and older get a COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against COVID-19.

*Everyone ages 18 years and older should get a booster dose of either Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna (mRNA COVID-19 vaccines) at least 2 months after receiving the Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen (J&J/Janssen) vaccine in most situations.

March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Editorial Publisher/Editor in Chief Sharon Bay sharon@SanDiegoFamily.com Managing Editor Lisa Gipson editor@SanDiegoFamily.com Calendar Editor Linda Bay events@SanDiegoFamily.com Editorial/Administrative Assistant Adrienne Sigeti family@SanDiegoFamily.com

Design Art Design/Web Design Rik Thiesfeld rik@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 Pick up a free copy of this month’s issue at Albertsons, select Vons and CVS stores throughout the county.

COVER

KIDS SAN DIEGO FAMILY

Horseback RIDING LESSONS in North County

All ages and levels of experience welcome • Your child will gain more confidence & self-esteem while having the time of their life • Therapeutic riding & horse experiences for special needs • Per-lesson and monthly packages available • 2022 HORSE CAMPS now enrolling too!

Wishing Well Equestrian

on Facebook or call Nancy (619)770-8765

8 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

San Diego

Out & About

with Kids!

SanDiegofamily.com Business Business Manager Larry Bay larry@SanDiegoFamily.com Marketing Director Michele Hancock michele@SanDiegoFamily.com Accounting family@SanDiegoFamily.com Circulation Sharon Bay sharon@SanDiegoFamily.com Printing Publication Printers Corp.

Advertising/Marketing Connect your business to families throughout San Diego County! Advertising/Marketing Representatives

Friends. Fun. Adventure. Repeat. Girl Scout camps for every girl!

Tony Andrews 619-685-6977 • tony2018@SanDiegoFamily.com Point Loma, Pacific Beach, La Jolla, North County Coastal

Day and resident camp sessions to match your passions: • • • • • •

Giovanni Baldan 619-685-6987 • giovanni@SanDiegoFamily.com South Bay, San Diego Downtown, Uptown 619-685-6970 • family@SanDiegoFamily.com All other areas

Hiking • Archery Arts • Leadership Outdoor Skills STEM Performance Friendship

Open to all girls in grades K-12. Financial aid available.

San Diego Family Magazine is published monthly by San Diego Family Magazine LLC. Copyright 2022. 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.

sdgirlscouts.org/camp or call 619-298-8391

Poway Gymnastics Member of

Air

100% Conditioned Facility!

Distribution Audited by

Visit our site to see what we’re doing to keep your kids healthy and safe!

powaygymnastics.com

858.748.1716

CELEBRATING 28 Years in the Poway community LOCATED IN THE S. POWAY BUSINESS PARK • 12850 BROOKPRINTER PLACE

March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Green

Our San Diego

Publisher’s Letter

Families

March into Spring!

Wesley (6) of Scripps Ranch loves making leprechaun traps every year.

Riding trains may be a new adventure for your family.

Lisa Gipson, our managing editor, has researched railways in California. Some of them would make a great day trip or extended weekend getaway. Check them out on page 24. Also visit www.sandiegofamily/things-to-do/out-about/7-funtrain-experiences-in-san-diego for train field trips here in San Diego County. I have taken the trolley to UC San Diego and walked the campus, finding some of the art sculptures on the Stuart Collection Walking Tour. They aren’t obvious, but it’s fun to hunt for them. Adventures also come through reading books. Studies have proven language development increases by reading. The first five years are critical. Take time to help your kids by reading the article on page 20. It’s camp season already! See what four adults got out of camp when they were younger on page 18. Learning new skills and participating in activities kids never thought about before provides growth and is a lot of fun. Look over the camp advertisements in this issue to get ahead of the “camp full” signs. We have a great calendar of events this month starting on page 28. SeaWorld opens Sesame Place on March 26, which will be so much fun for families! Check out the other fun things listed in the calendar and send us photos while you are out and about. St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17. See our goodie cake pops on page 38.

sharon@sandiegofamily.com

Main Office: 1475 Sixth Avenue, Fifth Floor, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: 619-685-6970 Fax: 619-685-6978 Email: 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.

10 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

Five-year-old Rocco of Point Loma says the promise of free gold will help lure in the leprechaun!

Uh-oh. Look what the Coleman family of Point Loma found on St. Patrick’s Day— little green footprints on the toilet seat!

2022 03 SDJT Spring Classes Family Magazine.pdf

2/7/22

9:52 PM

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E N R O L L T O D AY !

March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Short & Sweet

WE UNPLUG FOR

Lisa Gipson National Day of Unplugging

runs for 24 hours, starting at sundown on Friday, UGGING.COM Mar. 4. Plan a NATIONALDAYOFUNPL day of techfree fun, print out the “We unplug for…” sign, fill it in and take some photos. Then share your family’s screen-free adventures on IG @SanDiegoFamilyMagazine with hashtags #NationalDayofUnplugging and #ShareSanDiegoFamily (but not until the next day because you’re tech-free, remember?).

COVER

KIDS SAN DIEGO FAMILY

Exciting news! Registration for San Diego Family’s 2022 Cover Kids Search (sponsored by Tower Talent Studio West and Paradise Point Resort) opens on Mar. 14. Mark your calendars and get all the details on our website at www.sandiegofamily.com/ contests/cover-kids-search.

Editor’s Picks

Planning your next family camping adventure? Then you’ll want a copy of National Geographic’s 50 States, 500 Campgrounds: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to Do by Joe Yogerst. The guide highlights the best campgrounds in all 50 states and Canada, whether your preference is tenting, glamping or traveling by RV. Also included are helpful campground details, recommended area excursions (hiking, biking, kayaking), notto-be-missed destinations, and tons of color photographs.

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” said no parent of a toddler EVER on Daylight Saving Day. Sorry to break the news, but don’t forget to “spring forward” on Sunday, March 13. Yes, we lose an hour, but here’s the “upside”: Everyone gets to eat breakfast an hour earlier! Woot.

Attention, Amazon Shoppers! If you’re an Amazon Shopper and are not already connected to a charitable organization, please consider supporting the Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego (SNRFSD) through Amazon Smile. There are no fees and no cost to participate! Simply connect at https://smile.amazon.com/ch/464543603 and start shopping. Amazon donates .5 percent of eligible purchases to SNRFSD, which may not sound like much, but adds up over time. Thank you in advance for your support!

12 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

Also from National Geographic this month is a fabulous book featuring trailblazing female scientists and adventurers. No Boundaries: 25 Women Explorers and Scientists Share Adventures, Inspiration, and Advice by Clare Fieseler and Gabby Salazar (two of National Geographic’s own Explorers) highlights the incredible work these women are doing across the globe. From volcanologists to archaeologists, astronomers to expedition leaders and more, kids (ages 10+) will be inspired by wisdom and advice from women who are making a difference in the world right now.

AQUA PROS

SWIM SCHOOL

Secure your spot and save today at

INVENT.ORG/LOCAL

LITTLE FISH COMIC BOOK STUDIO SUMMER

P CAM T A R ION

REGIST ! NOW OPEN Specifically for students aged 7-11, this class focuses on the creation, magic and collaboration of comics! Spots are limited so email us today to hold a spot!

CELEBRATING!

Get in the pool today! FREE Introductory Lesson* *Check for available times & enroll today.

• Infant to adult • 3-to-1 student/ teacher ratio • Warm 90o indoor pool

CLASSES HELD IN-STUDIO AND ONLINE!

619-209-2990

w w w.aquapros.org

(619) 356.1103 • WWW.LILFISH.US

Celebrating 52 years “A learning environment that balances the physical, cognitive, creative, social & emotional needs of your child.” Scheduling Tours for the 2021-2022 School Year

Lic.# 376600498

We’ve reintroduced

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• Peace of Mind • Confidence • Great Exercise • So much FUN!

Visit our website www.delmarhillsnurseryschool.com

858-755-8338

13692 Mango Drive, Del Mar

Leaders in Early Childhood Education Since 1970 March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Special Advertising Section

Spring / Summer Camps & Programs

It’s time to get fired up for camp!

Get ahead of the crowd and browse through the pages of our magazine to start planning. Whether your kids want outdoor adventure, STEM experiences or prefer to dabble in creative and performing arts, our spring and summer camp guide has something for everyone.

AT THE

Serving the San Diego Community since 1987!

TWO Camps for $500

with this ad. expires 3/31

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SCRIPPS PERFORMING

ACADEMY

ARTS

Summer 2022

Join us for a NEW Summer Season with weekly Dance & Musical Theatre Themes Campers Ages 4-17 learn choreography while creating a performance utilizing original scripts inspired by a variety of popular childhood themes, including Encanto, Sing II and more! Or you may choose from a Summer Dance Program! Each week culminates with a live presentation, creating summer memories to last a lifetime!

ScrippsBallet.com/Academy/Summer-Camps

14 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

2022 Summer Camps ad Fam Mag.pdf

2/10/22

10:06 AM

Special Advertising Section

SPEND THIS SUMMER

LEARNING TO ACT, SING, AND DANCE WITH THE

NATION’S OLDEST YOUTH THEATRE PROGRAM!

CMY

KIDS GET CREATIVE AND HAVE TONS OF FUN AT THE HOT SPOT! Liberty Station

2770 Historic Decatur Rd. Barracks 14

• Mon: Mosaics • Tues: Pottery Painting • Wed: Candle Making • Thurs: Succulent Gardens & Slime • Fri: Guided Canvas

CAMP • Ages 6+ • June 13 – August 16 Kids will make crafts, play games, and even get a quick tour of the Navy Barracks to see artist galleries, the public market and more! We provide a snack and bottle of water but encourage you to pack a lunch as well. See the Kids Camp tab on our website for more info.

Space is limited. Reserve online at

www.thehotspotstudio.com

MODEL RAILROAD CAMP

CREATE SCENERY, BUILDINGS & BUILD A MODEL RAILROAD!

GRADES K-8 | JUNE - AUGUST REGISTRATION OPEN EARLY MARCH www.sdmrm.org/summer-camps 619-696-0199 Ext. 404

Spring / Summer Camps & Programs

Ocean science exploration camps for ages 4-15 Register March 10, 2020 at aquarium.ucsd.edu

Ages 5-13

2022 CAMP REGISTRATION

Camps run from June 21-August 26 From the beach to the aquarium, our camps merge scientific exploration with hands-on fun. 2300 Expedition Way • La Jolla • 858.534.7336

General Registration begins MARCH 8

FULL DAY CAMPS

Now for ages 6+

March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Special Advertising Section

Friends. Fun. Adventure. Repeat. Girl Scout camps for every girl!

Day and resident camp sessions to match your passions: • Hiking • Archery • Arts • Leadership • Outdoor Skills • STEM • Performance • Friendship

Spring / Summer Camps & Programs

sdgirlscouts.org/camp or call 619-298-8391

Open to all girls in grades K-12. Financial aid available.

Located in University City 2640 Soderblom Ave., San Diego, CA 92122

K–6 Grade th

858.457.5895 www.mbmacademy.com

2022 SUMMER CAMPS AT MBMA! Theme:

Time Travelers! Bi-weekly Sessions June 27th – August 12th

Time to explore. Time to create. Time to shine.

Summer @ LePort Montessori

Elementary Summer Camp registration now open! • New topics and activities every week • Flexible one-week camp sessions • Opportunities for students to make new friends and collaborate

(858) 207-6474 • 1010 SOLANA DR., DEL MAR • LEPORT.COM/GO/SUMMER 16 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

Special Advertising Section

STEM, Arts & Sports

in San Diego Weekly starting in June

Spring / Summer Camps & Programs

SUMMER CAMPS

SAVE $50 with code SDF-50 valid until 06/01

d e v o L e W y h W

Summer CCheryl Maguire amp

Reflections from adults According to the American Camp Association, 14 million kids and adults attend camp every summer. To understand why kids love going to camp, I spoke to four adults about their camp experiences when they were younger. They shared how attending camp helped shape them into the people they are today. Here are some of the things that helped them grow at summer camp: We learned new skills. Attending camp gives kids the opportunity to learn new skills they might not learn anywhere else. Andrea Simokonis - I learned how to juggle and play guitar. I vastly improved each summer because one of the counselors offered daily [guitar] lessons as a free-time activity. Juggling lessons were also a free-time lesson from one of the counselors who went on to become a puppeteer on Sesame Street. Kim Liberman - I learned swimming, boating and jewelry making.

18 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

Jake Wolf-Sorokin - I learned to sail, leather work, water ski, camp (map reading, pitching tents, fire building), canoe, do woodworking and play cribbage. We developed independence and confidence. Camp provides an environment that encourages kids to try new activities or select activities they want to learn, which helps them develop independence and build confidence. Wolf-Sorokin - For me, [the camp’s] enduring legacy was building independence, confidence and selfreliance by treating children as ‘grown ups’—entrusting them with more responsibility than they may take on during the year. At camp, I got to choose what I did every day….it was a stark and refreshing contrast from my hyper-scheduled life at school during the year. The camp’s non-competitive focus encouraged me to take risks and push myself, knowing I could return to my supportive set of cabinmates and counselors, even if I had just wiped out on water skis or lost a tennis match. Linsey Pimentel - Camp always gave me a great sense of freedom, independence and community. I could participate in a wide variety of

activities every day, from land and water sports to art and music classes. I was away from home, which gave me a sense of independence, but I had the support network of peers and staff members. Being in this kind of setting… and sleeping in a cabin gave me an incredible feeling of freedom. Simokonis - Every morning, the entire camp would get a sheet of paper with a bible passage on it, and some questions to help reflect on the verse and how it pertained to your own life. Then you could sit and meditate on it for 15 minutes. The camp was entirely present, yet completely silent every day. It truly was magical to get 500 teenagers to sit in silence for that long. We created connections and camaraderie. The social setting of most camps helps kids make new friends and feel a sense of camaraderie with one another. Simokonis - At the end of the day, we raced back to our cabins with our friends while we got ready for whatever evening activity. We had endless conversations. I don’t think anyone ever really slept. It was 20 of my closest friends hanging out in our goofiest PJs, having girl talk and eating junk food. It truly was amazing.

Wolf-Sorokin - At camp, I developed a set of friendships with fellow campers and counselors that continues to bring me joy and fulfillment to this day. We discussed social challenges. Since camp can be more interactive than a school setting, kids have a chance to discuss social issues. Simokonis - At camp, we talked about hard issues that teens face like drugs and alcohol, love, peer pressure, and often we talked about how God impacted our decisions in these areas. Every year there was a theme. We found a mentor. Camp counselors often develop mentor relationships with their campers. Simokonis - The camp counselors shared their experiences as teens and were truly mentors to me. I loved my counselors and I keep in touch with them. It’s kind of amazing. We developed careers. Some of the people I spoke to developed careers around camp. But even those who didn’t, gained skills that served them well into adulthood. Simokonis - I went on to be a counselor for seven summers after I graduated high school, and had just as much fun as a counselor as I did when I was a camper. Liberman - My love for the camp experience led me to go back to work in the camp field. After sending my kids to camp, I worked again as a camp counselor. After that, I was offered the camp director role. Wolf-Sorokin - I attended a boys camp for six summers when I was growing up. I then worked there as a counselor for three summers, and I now serve on the Board of Trustees of the nonprofit organization that owns and operates the camp. v Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She’s the mother of three children. Her writing has been published in Parents Magazine, Your Teen Magazine and many other publications.

THE THEATRE SCHOOL @ NORTH COAST REP presents

2022

R E M M U S RE T A E H T CAMPS PLAYFUL ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE CAMPS

FUN SKILL-BUILDING PERFORMANCE CAMPS

AGES 4-8

AGES 8-12

1-Week Camps 9:30am–12:30pm or 12:30pm–3:30pm Tinkerbell’s Trouble 6/20/22-6/24/22 Aladdin Adventures 6/20/22-6/24/22 Jungle Book Jumble 7/11/22-7/15/22 Mary Poppins Party 7/11/22-7/15/22 Snow White Adventures 7/25/22-7/29/22 Jedi Jamboree 7/25/22-7/29/22

2-Week Camps 9:30am–3:30pm

Disney’s 101 Dalmations Kids 6/20/22-7/01/22 Fantastic Finn 7/11/22-7/22/22 Disney’s Winnie the Pooh Kids 7/25/22-8/05/22

EXCITING THEATRICAL TRAINING PERFORMANCE CAMPS

AGES 12-19 2-Week Camps 9:30am–3:30pm

Singin’ in the Rain Jr. 6/20/22-7/01/22 Hamlet and Zombies! 7/11/22-7/22/22 Into the Woods Jr. 7/25/22-8/05/22

Tony/March 2022/cr Daily Sign Ups Available

experience hanDS-On animal Interactions!

Spring 2022

at Helen Woodward Animal Center

march 28th-april1st | april 4th-8th april 11th-15th | april 18th-22nd register at animalcenter.org/education Pre-k through 6th Grade March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Raising

Lisa Gipson

Avid Readers

If you have concerns about your child’s language development, see your child’s pediatrician as soon as possible—early intervention is critical since 90 percent of a child’s brain develops by age 5. For more information on this topic, read our article Early Childhood Red Flags at www.sandiegofamily.com/ parenting/i-think-my-childis-different or get in touch with First 5 San Diego.

Read Across America Day is March 2

Raising readers offers a host of

cognitive, behavioral and socialemotional benefits, including language development, increased vocabulary and improved attention span as children learn to process emotions, gain a broader understanding of the world, and develop empathy and imagination. Reading also provides priceless bonding time with parents and caregivers when they are patient and allow children to lead. Start reading to kids when they are babies, but note that it’s never too late to start! Create cozy, comfortable reading “nooks” at home to make reading inviting and fun. Here are more resources and tips on how to raise avid readers.

Look for (or Build) a Little Free Library Get a Library Card Support early literacy development and a lifelong love of reading by getting kids a library card and taking them to the library frequently. Children under age 5 can now receive “My First Library Card,” featuring Odi the Coyote, San Diego Public Library’s mascot. Learn more at www.sandiego.gov/publiclibrary/services/lending/librarycard.

Little Free Library (LFL) is a worldwide book-sharing movement that anyone can participate in. There are dozens and dozens of LFLs throughout San Diego County, adorable and often creative “book cupboards” around the neighborhood that invite people to take a book or share a book. Find the LFLs closest to you by visiting the world map at www.littlefreelibrary.org and putting San Diego in the search bar. Cont. on p. 22

20 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

TWO

Camps for $500

Serving the San Diego Community since 1987!

expires 3/31/22

Theatre Camps

SCRIPPS PERFORMING

ACADEMY

ARTS

Summer Intensives

Join Us this Summer and Experience the MAGIC! ScrippsBallet.com/Academy 858.586.7834

What Can Parents Do The National Education Association (NEA) recommends parents do the following to create a sense of enjoyment for reading in their kids. Read NEA’s full list of tips at www.nea.org/ professional-excellence/studentengagement/tools-tips/raisingreaders-what-parents-can-do. 1. Read together every day. 2. Talk to build vocabulary. 3. Model reading. 4. Point out print (signs, recipes, cereal boxes, instruction manuals, maps, menus, etc.). 5. Create a reading-rich home. 6. Keep books handy to read aloud when you have to wait at restaurants or appointments. 7. Let kids choose books. 8. Be an active reader. Use expressive voices, make sound effects, and point things out when reading aloud. 9. Discuss what you read. 10. Make reading an experience. Link life experiences with books, like a trip to the zoo and books about animals; or planting a garden and reading The Ugly Vegetables by Grace Lin. 11. Have fun!

Spend your summer at the Museum! Registration for Summer Camps opens March 7 for ages 4-5 + 6-9. Register at thinkplaycreate.org/summer-camps

Camp Dates: June 13 – Aug. 19, 5 days/week

Discover the World of Montessori “A Montessori Student is a Future Citizen of the World”

East County MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE OF LEMON GROVE Toddler/Preschool Lic. #376614702

8121 Braddock Place, San Diego 92114 Lemon Grove

619-403-8988

www.MCHLG.com

San Diego Coastal BETH MONTESSORI Infants/Toddler/Preschool/Kindergarten Lic. # 376700496

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

858-452-3030

North County Coastal

www.bethmontessori.com

ENCINITAS COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL Preschool/Elementary/Middle

MISSION BAY MONTESSORI ACADEMY Preschool/Elementary

Two Locations in Encinitas Encinitas

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

www.ecdschools.org

www.mbmacademy.com

Lic. #372005943

760-942-1111

Lic. #372005444 • AMS Affiliated School

858-457-5895

March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Visit Independent Bookstores

Plan now for the 2022-2023 School Year! Educating Students Two Years Old – Sixth Grade Check our website for our outstanding test scores!

Mission Bay Montessori Academy

2640 Soderblom Ave San Diego, CA 92122

info@mbmacademy.com www.mbmacademy.com

Email us to set up a virtual tour and Q & A to learn about our unique, individualized method of creating enthusiastic, lifelong learners.

Serving Allied Gardens, San Carlos, Del Cerro Easy Access for SDSU

Kindergarten teachers love students from our programs! ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Serving Ages 2 - 6 (Diapers OK) 2, 3, 4 & 5 Day Schedules Full Day Enrichment Program 3 Large, Beautiful Playgrounds Loving, Caring and Secure Environment

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

6801 Easton Court San Diego, CA 92120

Schedule a tour now: (619) 287-6767

www.CanyonRimCC.com

Lic#376600450

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 •

22 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

www.bethmontessori.com

Did you know the country’s oldest continuously family-owned and operated bookstore is right here in La Jolla? Warwick’s is a hidden gem to be sure. Stop by to browse curated book selections and get recommendations. Join Warwick’s on IG @WarwicksBooks for virtual Storytime with Sonia every Friday. Additional charming spots for children’s books include Sandcastle Tales in the heart of Del Mar and Diesel in Carmel Valley, both of which hope to resume in-person storytime soon. Learn more about these stores at www.sandcastletales.com and www.dieselbookstore.com/del-mar-0.

Join a Book Club Traveling Stories empowers children through literacy support and mentoring at virtual and in-person story tents. Their goal is to help children fall in love with reading by fourth grade. Visit www.travelingstories.org to learn about their programs (including a book club for ages 4 to 9) and the ongoing need for teen and adult volunteers.

Tap into Reading Resources - Friends of the San Diego Public Library is a nonprofit that sells used books at deep discounts to support local libraries and programs. There is a Friends of the Library chapter at each of the 36 City of San Diego libraries. Learn more about their book sales and resources at www.friendsofsdpl.org. - We Need Diverse Books (WNDB) is a nonprofit whose mission is to create a world in which all children can see themselves in the pages of a book. Support their efforts or learn about their programs (including WNDB in the Classroom, which provides free diverse books to schools serving low-income students) at www.diversebooks.org. - First Book is a nonprofit that provides free and low-cost new books and educational resources to schools and programs serving children (ages 0–18) in need. Educators, healthcare providers and other individuals/programs serving

Proven Online & Hybrid Formats for 21/22!

Make stories come alive with Cook it! The Dr. Seuss Cookbook for Kid Chefs by Daniel Gercke. Parents and kids will love reading the rhyming text of sections like “Training Your Grown-Up” and “Oh, the Dishes You’ll Cook,” and making recipes such as WhoHash or Green Eggs and Ham Here, There and Everywhere. The cookbook contains 50 fun recipes for all ages.

children in need can register for free at www.fbmarketplace.org. - Words Alive is a local nonprofit that partners with Head Start, Boys & Girls Clubs and others to help children and families obtain books and build home libraries. Volunteers (adults, teens and kids as young as 10) are needed to help review books, host book drives and more. Visit www.WordsAlive.org for details. v Managing Editor Lisa Gipson loves reading to kids and plans to volunteer with one of these organizations. Find more ideas in our article “Tips to Foster a Child’s Love of Reading” at www.sandiegofamily.com/parenting/ preschooler/tips-to-foster-your-childslove-of-reading.

2 2 0I2 TAL DIG

E ISSU ABLE AVA I L

MARCH 10 1,200 Resources for Families with Disabilities Published by

SNRFSD.org March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Lisa Gipson

! d r a o b All A Where to ride the rails in California

Ready to plan a unique spring or summer family getaway? Look no further than the fascinating and historically rich train experiences throughout the state of California. How fun would it be to plan entire family vacation dedicated to train exploration? No matter where you’re headed, there’s probably a train ride nearby.

World-Famous Skunk Train Fort Bragg Take the Pudding Creek Express on a seven-mile scenic round trip along Pudding Creek Estuary and through ancient redwood trees. The 75-minute experience includes a short stop at Glen Blair Junction, where passengers can explore the trails. Or, take a longer trip on the Wolf Tree Turn route, which departs from Willits (about an hour east of Fort Bragg). www.skunktrain.com

Sonoma TrainTown Railroad Sonoma Kids love the quarter-scale railroad and train-themed rides at TrainTown. Each train ride is 20 minutes long, venturing through tunnels and over bridges, stopping at the petting zoo. Open weekends; daily during the summer. www.traintown.com

Redwood Valley Railway

Experiencing both

the Skunk Train and worldfamous Rail Bikes (awesome!) in Mendocino County last fall inspired me to discover what other fun railways exist in California. Thanks to train-fanatic friends, I found out there are tons! If your family loves trains—and even if they don’t—this list offers vacation and daytrip inspiration that will captivate most.

Skunk Train 24 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

Orinda (Berkeley) Families love riding this miniature steam train that is commonly known as Tilden Steam Train because of its location in Tilden Regional Park. Enjoy a 12-minute ride through the redwoods covered hills of Berkeley. Open daily in the summer; weekends only during winter months. https://redwood-valleyrailway.business.site

Redwood Forest Steam Train Felton (Santa Cruz) Visitors to Roaring Camp can ride a steam engine through towering redwood groves and up a narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. Trains run daily (except Christmas); a 1941 Plymouth Diesel may be used on weekdays January through March. www.roaringcamp.com

Discover wine and beer trains just for parents in the online version of this article at www.sandiegofamily.com/ things-to-do/travel.

Angels Flight Railway Los Angeles If you’ve seen the movie “La La Land,” you’ve gotten a glimpse of Angels Flight, a funicular that takes passengers on a very short ride up Bunker Hill. Fare is only $1 each way. Consider purchasing a souvenir round-trip ticket for this historic railway car, which originally opened in 1901. www.angelsflight.org

Griffith Park Train Rides

Railbike Excursions, Fort Bragg Ride the rails on an open-air railbike and experience the train tracks in a whole new way—immersed in nature! The two-person electric bikes are so much fun! Feel the breeze and breathe fresh air as you pedal along Pudding Creek. For ages 6+ (with parent). A more challenging 25-mile excursion is also available along the Noyo River. www.skunktrain.com California State Railroad Museum, Sacramento

Take a 50-minute round-trip ride on Sacramento Southern Railroad’s historic steam or diesel locomotive, which operate April through September. Experience railroading as it was in the early 20th century while riding along the scenic Sacramento River. www.californiarailroad.museum

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, Fish Camp

Hop aboard the Logger Steam Train or Lil’ Logger Diesel on a narrated, one-hour ride through the Sierra National Forest. The Moonlight Special evening ride includes dinner and live entertainment during a stop at Lewis Creek Canyon. Trains run April through November. www.ymsprr.com

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

Skunk Train Photos provided by Lisa Gipson

Jamestown Get a taste of California’s scenic gold country on a six-mile, 45-minute ride aboard the historic Sierra Railway in Tuolumne County. Then, explore Railtown, a 26-acre park also known as “The Movie Railroad” since its trains have been seen in more than 300 movies (including Back to the Future III). Don’t miss the active roundhouse tour! www.railtown1897.org

Los Angeles There are five miniature locomotives and 21 passenger coaches in operation between Griffith Park & Southern Railroad (open daily, except Christmas Day) and Travel Town Railroad (closed Wednesdays), both located at LA’s expansive Griffith Park. Leave time to explore vintage railroad locomotives at Travel Town, too. www.griffithparktrainrides.com

So. California Railway Museum Perris Don’t miss the Dinosaur Train STEAM Festival March 19 & 20, a unique experience created in partnership with PBS featuring all-day train and trolley rides, and activities such as making dino lava lamps and straw rockets. www.socalrailway.org

Pacific Southwest Railway Campo Ride the Golden State on an eight-mile trek through San Diego County’s rugged back-country. Want to ride the train from an engineer’s point of view? A limited number of locomotive cab rides are available for ages 6+ with a paying adult. Visit website for details. Trains run on weekends. www.psrm.org v Lisa Gipson, who is always up for a road trip, is still discovering fun things to do in her home state of California. Looking for train experiences closer to home? Read our article “Fun Train Experiences in San Diego” at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/outabout/7-fun-train-experiences-in-san-diego. March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Sarah Lyons

What

Kids Learn from Collections My kids love to collect everything from rocks to stickers. These treasures bring my kids joy, but they also take up space and collect dust. While they often seem like trash to me, collections provide a great opportunity for kids to learn about things that interest them. In the spirit of science activities that typically take place in San Diego this month (SD Festival of Science details TBA), here are benefits of children starting (or maintaining) a collection. Responsibility Kids who collect items need to be responsible for them. They sort, take care of and find creative ways to display the items they are interested in. It’s important to make sure collections are well cared for and stored correctly so they don’t get lost or broken. This helps kids learn responsibility and organization.

Lessons Learned Kids who collect are more likely to spend time reading about, sorting and discussing their collections. As they research and learn about their chosen item(s), they learn about the world around them. For instance, a baseball card collection teaches kids about sports, but also math as they compare statistics. Here are other lessons learned: •

Science and nature: rocks, shells, leaves, pinecones, bugs (For items you don’t want in the house, encourage kids to take photos and provide a spot to display them.)

•

History: coins, stamps, fossils, arrowheads, artifacts

•

Creativity: There is a host of items that foster creativity, whether it’s art supplies, buttons, playing cards—or simply the different ways a child chooses to display their collection.

Connection Collectors bond with others who share similar interests, which can help start friendships. There may be conventions kids and parents can attend to explore, purchase and meet others who are interested in the same collector’s items. These experiences help build social skills and new relationships.

26 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

Storytelling As kids look through their collection, they recall where they acquired certain items—at a family trip to the zoo or on a hike with a friend—and they learn to tell stories about the experiences to family members, friends and visitors.

Budgeting For items that need to be purchased, kids have the opportunity to learn budgeting skills. They need to research prices, find a way to earn money, and save until they have enough to make a purchase. If items are traded, they can practice negotiation skills as they bargain with friends.

Joy While a child’s collection may be nothing but a dust collector to parents, it likely brings your child happiness. I have an abundance of items that bring me joy: a stack of books, my grandmother’s china and enough gadgets to fill two kitchens. A child’s collection brings similar joy and it is important for parents to remember this, foster their interests and encourage what is important to them. Many valuable lessons can be learned from maintaining collections. Support kids by providing a shelf to display items or a special box for storage. v Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer. March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Irish-American Heritage Month • Nutrition Month • Craft Month

MARCH2022

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

Sesame Place San Diego

Ideal for families with kids of all ages, the all-new Sesame Place San Diego theme park features 18 Sesame Street-themed rides and exciting water attractions, including a kid-friendly rollercoaster and a 500,000-gallon wave pool – one of the largest in Southern California. The park also features a musical play area, an interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood complete with the iconic 123 Stoop, daily live character shows, award-winning parades, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities and of course, everyone’s favorite furry friends! Opens March 26. Visit website for tickets and season passes. 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista. www.SesamePlaceSanDiego.com

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

tuesday | 1 Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday SPACE: Our Greatest Adventure. This interactive exhibit explores mankind’s quest for the stars and how space exploration impacts our daily lives. Open daily, 10 am–4:30 pm. Free with museum admission. $13–$23; 2 & under free. San Diego Air & Space Museum, Balboa Park. www.sandiegoairandspace.org

28 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

Seeing the Invisible. Contemporary artworks created with augmented reality technology featuring works by 13 international artists. Through Aug. Wed.– Mon., 9 am–5 pm. $10–$18; under 3 free. Reservations required. San Diego Botanic Garden, Quail Gardens Dr. & Ecke Ranch Rd., Encinitas. www.sdbgarden.org Jazz-Latin-Classical Fusion. Guest trumpeter Pacho Flores performs a lively array of genres alongside San Diego

Symphony musicians. 7:30 pm. Starting at $30. Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. www.sandiegosymphony.org “The Band’s Visit.” A band of musicians arrive in a town that’s way off the beaten path and brings the town to life in unexpected ways. Through Mar. 6. Visit website for times. Starting at $35. For ages 10+. San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave. www.broadwaysd.com

wednesday | 2 Read Across America Day Hats Off to Reading Day. Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! Celebrate with a visit from Cat in the Hat, story times, book giveaways and special activities throughout the Museum. 9 am–12 pm. $9.50; under 1 free. Registration required. San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.sdcdm.org/hotr Circus Vargas. Acrobats, daredevils and flying trapeze. Mar. 2–7, 1640 Camino del Rio N. & Mar. 11–28, 272 E. Via Rancho Pkwy., Escondido. Closed Tuesdays. $18–$70; under 2 free. www.circusvargas.com SAPLinGS: Birding in the Garden. “Science, Art and PLay in Garden Spaces.” Includes a plant or nature-based theme with cool science and hands-on learning. Wed.–Fri., 10 am–12 noon. $10–$18; under 3 free. Reservations required. San Diego Botanic Garden, Quail Gardens Dr. & Ecke Ranch Rd., Encinitas. www.sdbgarden.org. The Sky Tonight: Tour of the Zodiac. 7 & 8:15 pm. Visit website for tickets. Heikoff Giant Dome Theater, Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org International Guitar Night. Featuring acoustic rock sensation Luca Stricagnoli, progressive classical guitarist Thu Le, Slack Key master Jim “Kimo” West, and Latin Swing pioneer Lulo Reinhardt. 7:30 pm. $35–$45. Center Theater, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org

thursday | 3 Healthcare Heroes. Step into the world of doctors, nurses and paramedics to experience an exhibit filled with engaging, hands-on adventures in the world of healthcare. Tues.–Sat, 9 am–4:30 pm. $9.50; under 1 free. San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.sdcdm.org Surface, Substance, Structure: Selections from California Fibers. Using threads, textiles, fabrics and other materials, artists create artworks that are extraordinarily contemporary. Through Mar. 6. Wed., 11 am–7 pm; Thurs.–Sat., 11 am–5 pm; Sun., 1–5 pm. $6–$12. California Center for the Arts Museum, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. www.artcenter.org

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Learn more and sign up for a virtual information session at www.learningchoice.org or call 844 GO TO TLC (844-468-6852)

SMALL TRAINS BIG FUN The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is fun for the whole family! Our exhibits immerse you in artistic whimsy and the real history of the American Southwest. Join us on the lower level of the Casa de Balboa building in the heart of Balboa Park, Thursday - Sunday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

RIDE

THE

RAILS!

Multi-generational fun for the whole family! Open every weekend. Take a 45 minute train ride through the San Diego County back-country!

750 Depot St., Campo 619-478-9937

www.sdmrm.org/yourvisit

www.PSRM.org March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Calendar • March The Flower Fields

Photo courtesy of The Flower Fields

Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers, sunflower maze, American flag of flowers, sweet pea maze and more. Mar.1 through May 8. 9 am–6 pm. $10–$22; 2 & under free. Reservations required. 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad. www.theflowerfields.com

“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” Sally Brown, Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Schroeder and Snoopy in a charming revue of vignettes and songs. Through Mar. 20. Thurs. & Fri., 7 pm; Sat. & Sun., 4 pm. $24.50. OB Playhouse, 4944 Newport Ave. www.trinityttc.org

SeaWorld Seven Seas Food Festival. International flavors, beverage tastings and live music, plus, dolphins, sea lions, bat rays and more. Select weekends through May 1. Visit website for hours and prices. Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworldsandiego.com

FREE Teacher Fun Card at SeaWorld. All active and certified K-12 Southern California credentialed school teachers receive unlimited admission through Dec. 31, plus (for a limited time) two free single-day tickets. Offer ends Mar. 31. For details, visit www.seaworldsandiego.com/teacher.

A Tribute to Aretha Franklin: The Queen of Soul. Among the show’s cherished hits are “Respect,” “Think,” “Natural Woman” and more. 8 pm. $23–$70. The Poway Center for the Performing Arts, 15498 Espola Rd. www.powayonstage.org

friday | 4

Disney “Descendants: The Musical.” A musical about empathy, tolerance and acceptance. Today through Mar. 6 & 11-13. Visit website for times. $10. KIPP Adelante Prep Academy, 426 Euclid Ave. www.marayaarts.com

National Day of Unplugging, Mar. 4–5 “The Jungle Book.” Growing up in the dangerous Indian jungle, Mowgli learns to respect his environment and the wisdom of the animals. Through Mar. 20. Fri., 7 pm; Sat. & Sun., 2 pm. $16–$18. Casa del Prado Theatre, Balboa Park. www.juniortheatre.com

30 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

Roar & Snore Safari. Campers experience a sleepover with up-close animal encounters and walking tours to observe the nighttime activities of wildlife. Today, tomorrow, Mar. 11 &

18; Butterfly Jungle All Access, Mar. 19, 24–25, 27 & 31. Starting at $149; park admission not included. Safari Park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido. www.sdzsafaripark.org Winter Paralympic Games. Para Alpine Skiing, Para Ice Hockey, Wheelchair Basketball and more. Beijing, China. Through Mar. 13. Visit www.paralympic.org for schedule. FREE First Friday La Jolla Art Walk. Over 16 galleries open their doors for extended evening hours to art lovers. 4–7 pm. Sotheby’s Plaza, 1111 Prospect St., La Jolla. www.lajollabythesea.com Toddler Time at The New Children’s Museum. Music, movement and social play for young children. Fridays, 10 & 11 am. Free with admission. $15; under 1 free. 200 W. Island Ave. www.thinkplaycreate.org Kid’s Night Out. Kids in grades 1-5 will enjoy a themed night of games, arts and crafts, movies and more. 4:30–9

pm. $10–$20. Registration required. Community Park, 13094 Civic Center Dr., Poway. www.poway.org

2022 Cover Kids Search

saturday | 5 Golden State Train Ride. Ride on the historic San Diego & Arizona Railway. Saturdays & Sundays, 10:30 & 11:45 am and 1:45 & 3 pm. $9–$18; under 3 free. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo Depot, 750 Depot St. www.psrm.org Cabaret in the Courtyard: The Best of the Eagles. A musical celebration of songs written by one of the most successful bands of all time including “Desperado,” “Take It Easy” and “Hotel California.” Today, 7 pm & tomorrow, 6 pm. $35–$45. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org Mozart and Chevalier de SaintGeorges’ Violin Concerto. Celebrating the depth and playfulness of classical music. Tonight, 8 pm & tomorrow, 2 & 7 pm. Starting at $75. Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. www.sandiegosymphony.org

Does YOUR CHILD want to APPEAR on the cover of San Diego Family Magazine? We are 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

KIDS

Registration Opens March 14

SAN DIEGO FAMILY

Deadline: April 25, 2022 (Online entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. on this date.)

Contest open to all San Diego County residents.

Scan the QR code to go to registration web page

Visit our website to enter contest online. A $25 registration fee per entry ($35 for multiples category) must accompany a recent high quality photo, used to determine finalists. Submitted photos of 20 finalists from each category (80 total) will be displayed at: www.SanDiegoFamily.com/contests/cover-kids-search-winners-finalists Category finalists will be invited to a judging event on May 14 to help determine contest winners. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego.

Thank you to our sponsors:

Questions? Email: events@sandiegofamily.com Visit our website for complete rules and more information. Enter online at: www.SanDiegoFamily.com/contests/cover-kids-search

Cal State Winter Games. Figure Skating. Today & tomorrow. San Diego Ice Arena, 11048 Ice Skate Pl. Register at www.calstategames.org.

sunday | 6 Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruises. Thurs.–Mon., 9:30 am & 1:30 pm. $37.50– $50; 3 & under free. Pier Two, 970 N. Harbor Dr. www.cityexperiences.com Birch Aquarium at Scripps. View a stunning variety of colorful marine life featured in more than 60 habitats and interact with hands-on exhibits. Open daily, 9 am–5 pm. Adults, $24.95; Ages 3–17, $19.95; 2 & under free. Reservations required. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. www.aquarium.ucsd.edu

COME CURIOUS, LEAVE INSPIRED. Advanced Reservations Required

FREE Spreckels Organ Society Concerts. Sundays, 2–3 pm. PavilionPan American Place, Balboa Park. www.balboaparkconcerts.org

monday | 7 Going Places. Through engaging interactives, explore how different modes of transportation have shaped society. Open daily, 10 am–5 pm. $18.95–$21.95; 2 & under free. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org

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

March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Calendar • March Bowling at Viejas. Daily, 12–9 pm. $4–$5 per game. Viejas Casino & Resort, 5000 Willows Rd., Alpine. www.viejas.com Belmont Park Rides. Ride the historic Giant Dipper rollercoaster or try the rock climbing wall, zipline, carnival games, minigolf and more. Mon.–Thurs., 11 am–6 pm, Fri. & Sat., 11 am–10 pm, Sun., 11 am–8 pm. 3146 Mission Blvd. Visit www.belmontpark.com for tickets.

tuesday | 8 “Bhangin’ It: A Bangin’ New Musical.” An exhilarating musical that celebrates the traditions we inherit from yesterday and those we create for tomorrow. Through April 17. Visit website for times. Starting at $25. Mandell Weiss Theatre, 2910 La Jolla Village Dr. www.lajollaplayhouse.org Residents FREE Days at Balboa Park. Park museums offer free admission Tuesdays on a rotating basis throughout the month to residents of the City and County of San Diego, and to active military personnel and their dependents. For schedule visit www.balboapark.org.

wednesday | 9 Paws & Pages. Become a better reader by reading to animals in a nonjudgemental environment. 5–6 pm. $12. 6461 El Apajo Rd., Rancho Santa Fe. www.animalcenter.org

filmmakers and more. Through Mar. 20. Visit website for tickets and schedule. www.sdlatinofilm.com

10 am–5 pm. $15–$20; parking $10. Del Mar Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.delmarfairgrounds.com

friday | 11

Poway Youth Theater “Alice in Wonderland.” Local young thespians will perform an all-new version of the classic tale. 3 & 7 pm. $10–$20. The Poway Center for the Performing Arts, 15498 Espola Rd. www.powayonstage.org

Cherry Blossom Festival. Performances, vendors, sake and more. Mar. 11 through Mar. 13. 10 am–6 pm. $10–$12. Japanese Friendship Garden, Balboa Park. www.niwa.org Wildlife Explorers Basecamp Opens. Interactive play opportunities, oversized species-themed sculptures and a one-of-akind floating, seven-foot-high stone globe. Open daily, 9 am–5 pm. Visit website for tickets. San Diego Zoo, 2920 Zoo Dr. www.sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org

saturday | 12 FREE Accessibility Mornings at The New Children’s Museum. Provides access for families who would benefit from a sensory-friendly experience and quieter setting. 8–9 am. 200 W. Island Ave. www.thinkplaycreate.org Emperor Coaster at SeaWorld Opens. Plunge 90 degrees and soar up to 60 mph through exhilarating loops on this exciting Emperor penguin-inspired adventure on the state’s only floorless dive coaster. Visit website for tickets. Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworldsandiego.com

thursday | 10

Movies on the Beach. Tonight, “The Princess Bride” & Mar. 26, “Zootopia.” 8:30 pm. Starting at $25. Reservations required. Del Beach, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. www.hoteldel.com

ABBA MANIA. All of your favorites including “Mamma Mia,” “Voulez Vous,” “Dancing Queen” and more. 7:30 pm. $30–$60. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.sandiegotheaters.org

San Diego Leprechaun 5K & 1K Kids Run. 2,000 leprechauns take over the streets in Pacific Beach. 5K: 9 am; 1K: 10:15 am. $25–$45. 875 Garnet Ave. Register at www.raceroster.com.

Harbor Cruise & Sea Lion Adventure. Thurs.–Mon.; one & two hour tours available. Visit website for times. From $33; 3 & under free. Pier Two, 970 N. Harbor Dr. www.cityexperiences.com

FREE St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Irish Festival. Parade, 10:30 am at 5th & Laurel St. Celtic food village, crafts, Kids Zone and more following parade at 6th & Maple, Balboa Park. 9 am–6 pm. www.stpatsparade.org.

Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández. Brings together the music, dance, and costumes of Mexican folklore from pre-Colombian civilizations through the modern era. 7:30 pm. $25–$75. Concert Hall, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org San Diego Latino Film Festival. In-person film screenings, Q&A’s with

32 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

FREE Family Days with Studio by the Bay. Celebrate spring by making a coffee filter butterfly. 11 am–1 pm. Seaport Village, 849 Harbor Dr. www.seaportvillage.com TinyFest California. Tour tiny houses, van conversions, skoolies, backyard cottages (ADUs), shipping container homes and more. Today, 10 am–6 pm & tomorrow,

San Diego Gulls. Tonight & Mar. 27 vs. Ontario Reign, Mar. 16, 18 & 22 vs. Henderson Silver Knights & Mar. 23 vs. Tucson Roadrunners. Visit website for tickets and game times. Pechanga Arena, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. www.sandiegogulls.com FREE Chick Day. Learn about raising chickens in your own backyard. 9 am–5 pm. Hawthorne Country Store locations: 10845 Woodside Ave., Santee, 2762 S. Mission Rd., Fallbrook & 675 W. Grand Ave., Escondido. www.hawthornecountrystore.com. FREE Planting Water, Growing Soil. Learn to regenerate your landscape by “planting water” and growing healthy soil. 10–11:30 am. Includes Garden entry. The Water Conservation Garden, 12122 Cuyamaca College Dr. W., El Cajon. Register at www.thegarden.org. FREE Busker Fest. Celebrate the fascinating and unique talents of street performers who come from across the world to entertain us here in San Diego. 12–6 pm. Seaport Village, 849 W. Harbor Dr. www.seaportvillage.com

sunday | 13 Daylight Saving Time Begins Weekend Science Club: Pi and Other Math Treats. Investigate the notorious and infinite decimal known as pi. Celebrate Pi Day and amaze your friends with math tricks that seem like magic. 1–3 pm. $13–$15. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org/ events/science-clubs FREE VIRTUAL “Professor Silly Pants and His Musical Concoctions.” Families are invited to Professor Silly Pants’ zany laboratory where he and his hilarious assistant “Notes” mix up all kinds of original musical concoctions. To watch, visit the San Diego State University Performing Arts Troupe at www.sdsuperformingartstroupe.com.

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March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Calendar • March FREE Star Walk XVI. Learn beginner astronomy concepts about specific stars, constellations and simple astronomy facts and principles. 7:30–9 pm. Double Peak Park, 900 Double Peak Dr., San Marcos. www.san-marcos.net

College Dr. W., El Cajon. www.thegarden.org

FREE Spring Forward Story Time Scavenger Hunt. Celebrate longer days with snacks, story time, prizes and more. 11 am–2 pm. La Jolla Village. www.lajollabythesea.com

FIRST San Diego Regional. Experience the excitement of this intense competition, tour the “pits” to visit with teams and robots and cheer on your favorite team. Through Mar. 20, 8 am–5 pm. Parking, $10. Del Mar Arena, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.delmarfairgrounds.com

House of Ireland Lawn FREE Program. Live music, dancing and other Irish traditions take the stage while Irish stew and other tasty treats are served at the cottage. 11 am–4 pm. Balboa Park. www.houseofireland.org

monday | 14

thursday | 17 St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day Tea. A greenthemed version of the four course Cottage Classic Tea. Through Mar. 21. 11:30 am, 1 & 2:30 pm. $9.95–$32.95. Reservations required. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts, 2124 Third St., Julian. www.juliantea.com

Pi Day

friday | 18

Paint Your Own Pottery. Pottery and canvas painting, candle making, mosaics and more. Open daily; visit website for hours and prices. The Hot Spot, 2770 Historic Decatur Rd. www.thehotspotstudio.com

Cabrillo Kennel Club Dog Show. Enjoy the top-notch competition and look behind the scenes to watch groomers, trainers and owners prepare their dogs for the show ring. Through Mar. 20, 9 am–5 pm. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz

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

tuesday | 15 Tuesday Night Comics. Arguably the funniest night of comedy comprised of talent from all over the country. 7:30 pm. $39. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Solana Beach. www.northcoastrep.org Dancing with the Stars: LIVE! See time-honored dances like the Cha Cha, Foxtrot, Salsa, Tango and everything in between. 7:30 pm. Starting at $47.50. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.sandiegotheaters.org Lost Leprechaun Scavenger Hunt. A fun, self-guided scavenger hunt through shamrock meadows and rainbow tunnels. Through Mar. 20. Tues.–Sun., 9 am–4 pm. Free with admission. $4–$8; 2 & under free. The Water Conservation Garden, 12122 Cuyamaca College Dr. W., El Cajon. www.thegarden.org

wednesday | 16 Storytime with Ms. Smarty-Plants. A holiday-themed story followed by a craft. 9:30–10:30 am. Free with admission. $4–$8; 2 & under free. The Water Conservation Garden, 12122 Cuyamaca

34 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

saturday | 19 St. Patrick’s Day Science. Get ready for St. Patrick’s Day by experimenting with color-changing cabbage juice and harnessing the power of a potato. 9–10:30 am & 11 am–12:30 pm. $13– $15. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org San Diego Seals Stair Climb. Raise funds and awareness for the thousands of people in San Diego and Imperial Counties with Down Syndrome. Stair climb, 3 pm; dinner, 5 pm; game vs. Colorado Mammoth, 7 pm. Pechanga Arena, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. For details visit https://give.guidinghands.org/event/ seals-stair-climb-for-down-syndromeawareness/e356703. Dino Train STEAM Festival. Buddy the Dinosaur will meet with his fans and highlight his favorite topics of paleontology, science, technology, engineering, art and math in this interactive experience, created in partnership with PBS. Today & tomorrow, 9 am–5 pm. Visit website for schedule. $10–$20; 2 & under free. Southern California Railway Museum, 2201 South A St., Perris. www.socalrailway.org

Accessibility Mornings at the Fleet. Families who benefit from a lowsensory experience can enjoy exhibit galleries in a quieter setting and a special IMAX film screening (lights on and a lower volume). 9–10 am; IMAX, 10 am. Free admission for one guest and one chaperone included. Visit website for tickets. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org Teen Grub Crawl. Chomp, slurp, and nibble your way through a mouthwatering adventure filled with the sweet, savory, spicy and more, from appetizers to desserts and everything in between. 5–9 pm. $5. Registration required. Community Park, 13094 Civic Center Dr., Poway. www.poway.org FREE WSA Western Surfing Championship Tour. Qualifies competitors to the West Coast Championships, U.S. Championships, Prime Event and any World Team Event. Today & tomorrow, 6:30 am–5:30 pm. South Harbor Jetty, Oceanside. www.visitoceanside.org

sunday | 20 Spring Begins Hot Chocolate 15K/5K. Includes finisher mug with fondue, dippables and hot chocolate. 5K, 6:45 am; 15K, 7:45 am. $54–$74. Petco Park, 1235 K St. Register at www.hotchocolate15k.com. Tea in the Garden. Enjoy a relaxing tea and food in a tranquil floral setting. 11:30 & 11:50 am, 12:10 & 12:30 pm. $70. Admission included. The Flower Fields, 5704 Paseo Del Norte. www.theflowerfields.com FREE Rolando Street Fair. Kids Zone, bands, vendor booths and more. 10 am–6 pm. Minimal fee for activities. 4700–4800 Rolando Blvd., near El Cajon Blvd. www.rolandocc.org

friday | 25 “Aladdin: Look, Love, Listen.” This non-Disney version has all the fun and excitement of the cartoon but comes to life on the stage with endearing new characters and a surprise ending that is packed with humor and frivolity. Tonight, 7 pm; tomorrow, 2 & 7 pm; Mar. 27, 2 pm. $16–$20. The Pavilion at Legacy, 875 Hotel Circle S. www.cytsandiego.org

Does someone you love have special needs? TERI’s Special Needs Life Quality Coaching Certification is being held once again, for a select few. Register now for our April 25th or August 15th sessions. Space is limited! TERI, California’s foremost organization helping adults and children with developmental and learning disabilities, is offering this unique opportunity to parents, special ed professionals, and anyone with an interest in making a significant difference! Our Special Needs Life Quality Coaching Certification is life changing. We promise.

Learn more about our April 25th and August 15th sessions - visit www.teriinc.org/lifecoachingcourse.

coaching@teriinc.org

760.721.1706

March 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com •

Rhapsody in Blue. A program for all who love ballet. Today & tomorrow, 8 pm. Starting at $25. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.cityballet.org

saturday | 26 Watercolor Class. Artists of every skill level are welcome to come and create en plein air (in the open air) and capture the beauty of this authentic Native American site. 9 am–12 noon. $5. Kumeyaay-Ipai Interpretive Center, 13104 Ipai Waaypuk Trail, Poway. Sign up at www.poway.org/classes.

Kids Day at The Flower Fields. Bubble making, face painting, BMX Freestyle Team performances and more. Free with paid admission. 9 am–5 pm. $10–$22; 2 & under free. Reservations required. The Flower Fields, 5704 Paseo Del Norte. www.theflowerfields.com San Diego Beatles Fair. Live performances celebrating the early years of The Beatles, memorabilia displays and more. 12–10 pm. $25–$55. Queen Bee’s Art & Cultural Center, 3925 Ohio St. www.sandiegobeatlesfair.com.

PEACE MIND

Joyful Flowers Exhibit. Exhibit showcasing the Japanese art of flower arranging expressed in a special way using balance, harmony and form. Today & tomorrow, 9 am–5 pm. Free with paid admission. $10–$22; 2 & under free. Reservations required. The Flower Fields, 5704 Paseo Del Norte. www.theflowerfields.com Pirate Plunge. Pirate-themed pool activities including Diving for Treasure, Ship Raiders and “Treasure Planet” on the giant outdoor movie screen. 5–8 pm. $10; 3 & under free. Alga Norte Aquatic Center, 6565 Alicante Rd., Carlsbad. www.carlsbadca.gov/parksandrec Girl Scout Day at The Flower Fields. Girl Scouts can earn a Flower Fields patch. Composting, planting, art and tractor wagon ride. 9–10:30 am. $10–$22; 2 & under free. Reservations required. 5704 Paseo Del Norte. www.theflowerfields.com

San Diego Wave Soccer. Home opener for our new National Women’s Soccer team vs. Portland Thorns. 7 pm. Starting at $15. Torero Stadium, USD campus. Visit www.sandiegowavefc.com for tickets.

That’s what Children’s Physicians Medical Group (CPMG) gives you when it comes to the medical needs of your kids.

For routine check ups, scheduled vaccines and sick exams, our offices are open and safe to visit. You can be assured that every effort is made to ensure the highest standard of quality care. Our commitment will always be to help you raise healthy, happy children.

sunday | 27 Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood LIVE! Daniel Tiger will take audiences on an interactive musical adventure to the Neighborhood of Make-Believe, sharing stories of friendship, helping others and celebrating new experiences. 2 & 5:30 pm. Starting at $16. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.sandiegotheaters.org

With locations throughout San Diego and Southern Riverside, we can achieve this together.

thursday | 31 Cesar Chavez Day Padres Opening Day Home Opener. Today vs. San Francisco Giants, 1:40 pm. Visit website for tickets. Petco Park. www.padres.com

LED E C N A C

in partnership with

Find more events at sandiegofamily.com.

/cpmgsandiego

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Healthy kids. Happy parents.

36 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

www.cpmgsandiego.com • 1-877-276-4543

Email events@sandiegofamily.com and include the name of the event, a description, event address, date, time, cost and website. Submission does not guarantee publication. Deadline for the May issue: April 1.

STEM, Arts & Sports

SUMMER CAMPS

in San Diego

Weekly starting in June

SAVE $50 with code SDF-50 valid until 06/01

Happy St. Paddy’s Day! *

Lisa Gipson

I don’t know who invented the cake

Photo credit: www.TheSeasideBaker.com

pop, but wow. An adorable, bite-sized cake on a stick that can be designed and customized to fit any holiday or occasion? Brilliant. Fun. Delicious. Lucky for us, local food blogger, The Seaside Baker, is sharing directions for these gorgeous green and gold cake pops with our readers. Here’s a great idea: Plan a family fun day making cake pops and leprechaun traps! Find directions and ideas (including leprechaun bait) in our St. Patrick’s Day Round-Up at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/ seasonal-happenings/st-patricks-day.

Let the shenanigans begin! *Yep, it’s Paddy, not Patty!

38 • SanDiegofamily.com • March 2022

San Diego Family March 2022

Articles inside

What Can Parent Do To Help Kids Read More

San Diego Family Things To Do with the Family in March

What Kids Learn from Collections

Where to ride the rails in California

Raising Avid Readers

Why We Loved Summer Camp