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FREE & CHEAP FAMILY FUN IN SJ SUMMER READING LIST
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CONTENTS JULY / AUGUST 2018 4
JULY /AUGUST 2018 PUBLISHER | EDITOR
Tony Zoccoli MANAGING EDITOR
Lindsey Rodrian SECTION EDITOR
Nora Heston Tarte GRAPHIC DESIGNER
David Martinez / Lucas Zoccoli / Sybil Watson MARKETING ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER
Neelam Patel ADVERTISING
24 6. Must-Have Back to School Items In addition to the laundry list of school supplies every district requires, these extras will make starting school something to get excited about!
6. Treating a Sunburn
When SPF isn’t enough, it’s time to go on the defense. Use these quick tips for soothing bad burns, especially those on young, sensitive skin.
8. Summer is Booked
These four books explore the world from the wonders of our own nation to faraway seas, towering mountains, and mysterious islands. Set up the hammock, pitch the tent, and break out the books.
10. Fostering Community
Parents by Choice is a foster care and foster-to-adopt agency that was founded in 2006 by Tony Yadon with the idea that children and their families should be the priority.
12. Shades of Color Paint
From painting on canvas and wood, to decorating pottery, to exploring mixed media art, Shades of Color Paint offers classes on just about everything a budding artist could want.
THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
14. Twinkle Toes Dance Studio At Twinkle Toes Dance Studio, kids from ages 2 to 12 are introduced to ballet, jazz, and tap dance, through which they practice such important skills as creative movement, technique, and flexibility. The studio offers one class per age group
16. Princess with a Purpose
Girls and boys ages 4-12 can build confidence, practice poise and etiquette, and make lasting memories through the San Joaquin County Princess and Prince Program. If your child shows interest in pageants, it’s the perfect place to get a taste of the lifestyle, and be mentored by Miss SJ County!
18. Free (and cheap!) Family
Fun in San Joaquin County Gather the kids and get out for the day! Having an A+ summer doesn’t have to mean going broke. Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, Tracy, and other cities in SJ County are full of familyfriendly destinations with affordable price tags.
26. How To: Pack a Lunch
Check out these cool tips—and gear!—to make lunchtime more enjoyable, affordable, healthier, and more delicious!
Michelle Cox REGULAR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alexandra Krueger, Heather Isbill Faith Lewis, Steph Rodriguez PHOTOGRAPHY
Dan Hood DISTRIBUTION SERVICES
Rebecca Ristrim
CONTACT US EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING OFFICES
San Joaquin Parents Magazine published bi-monthly by San Joaquin Magazine 318 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240 Phone: (209) 833-9989 www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of Inside Magazines Publishing Company. © 2018 Inside Magazines Publishing Co.
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HIGHLIGHTS
MUST-HAVE
Back to School ITEMS BY NORA HESTON TARTE
In addition to the laundry list of school supplies every district requires, these extras will make starting school something to get excited about!
Treating a
Sunburn BY NORA HESTON TARTE
The best course of action to protect against sunburns is prevention. But when SPF isn’t enough, it’s time to go on the defense. Use these quick tips for soothing bad burns, especially those on young, sensitive skin.
1) 2)
3)
Monogrammed backpack and lunch pail Let’s face it, kids lose stuff. And sometimes classmates have duplicates. Keep your child organized—and ensure lost stuff gets returned—by putting their name permanently on their gear. California Embroidery & Design in Lodi offers the service and Sassy Pants Children’s Boutique in Stockton’s Lincoln Center has cute styles you can get monogrammed.
A new outfit for the first day Leaving the freedom of summer behind for the structure of a new school year isn’t every child’s favorite thing to do. Get kids excited about the first day of school by letting them pick out a brand-new outfit for the first day. Sassy Pants and Caterpillar Children’s Boutique pack the trendiest fashions.
A planner Older kids especially will benefit from having a planner, and it will be a godsend for parents, too. Get one with plenty of space to fill in homework assignments and due dates, as well as a flap in the front or back for permission slips, fundraiser information, and fliers for school activities. Most planners also have an area for notes where students can keep sheets for open-note tests or information they will consistently need to reference.
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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
Whip out the dairy. This all-natural approach to sunburn soothing is less known than the ointments and aloe vera gel most recommend. Instead, dab a mixture of half cold milk, half water on the burn. A coat of yogurt can offer the same relief. Keep it cool. Take steps to cool hot, irritated skin. Place aloe vera gel (100 percent formulas work best) in the refrigerator so it’s more soothing to apply or place a cool washcloth on the affected area. Cold showers and baths help, too. These chilly applications help the body to release heat, effectively reducing the discomfort caused by sunburns. Limit future exposure and irritation. Until the burn heals, limit exposure to additional sun that could worsen the situation. Tight clothing and uncomfortable materials may also irritate the burn. Swap them out for loose, thin layers.
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from the start! G E T T H I S Y E A R ’ S B E S T B A C K - T O - S C H O O L S U P P LY Forget those new jeans and superhero lunchboxes. Confidence is the best school supply you can give your kids to set them up for school success. So start this year strong with a personal learning plan from Sylvan that includes: • Our proven approach that blends amazing teachers with SylvanSync™ technology on the iPad® for a truly engaging learning experience.
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Annunciation School Annunciation School
Learning | | Serving | Achieving Learning Serving | Achieving 1110 N. Lincoln Street | Stockton, CA 95203 | (209) 444-4000
Celebrating 61 years of teaching academic excellence and faith based values • K (full day) - 8th Grade
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SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE
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EDUTAINMENT
SUMMER IS
BOOKED BY FAITH LEWIS
Summer is meant for exploration and adventure, so encourage kids to turn off their screens and foster their love of the great outdoors with these new summer releases. These four books explore the world from the wonders of our own nation to faraway seas, towering mountains, and mysterious islands. Set up the hammock, pitch the tent, and break out the books.
The Turtle Ship Ages: 6 to 10 By Helena Ku Rhee
Inspired by a desire to see the world and resourcefulness found in nature, this book takes young readers to a long-ago Korean village by the sea. Here Sun-sin struggles to design the best battleship to protect Korea and earn a spot sailing with the royal navy. Could his pet turtle offer the inspiration he needs to keep his ship afloat? The use of color and patterns in the paper collage illustrations sets the tone for the story, gives the sea a personality of its own, and will enthrall a wide range of readers.
The Boy, the Boat, and the Beast Ages: 8 to 12 By Samantha M. Clark
This mystery-thriller will take independent readers out of their day-to-day lives and deposit them on an uninhabited beach island along with a young boy who doesn’t know who he is or how he got there. Readers will be eager to unravel these mysteries with him as he navigates the island and sea, his own fears, and the struggles of growing up.
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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
Run Wild
Ages: 3 to 5 By David Covell
A young boy ventures outside, forgetting his digital device and leaving the gray tones of the inside world behind. He races a rabbit, splashes barefoot in the mud, and discovers a world of color. A true appeal to the senses, a simple storyline is paired with intricate and whimsical watercolor illustrations. Your young adventurers will love spotting the many birds and bugs among the vibrant artwork and they might just be inspired to run wild themselves.
Wild Blues
Ages: 10 to 14 By Beth Kephart
For a reprieve from her chaotic home life, Lizzie heads to her favorite place on earth–her uncle’s renovated schoolhouse cabin. There she spends her time with Matias, her uncle’s neighbor and Lizzie’s best friend, who has proportional dwarfism. But when both Matias and her uncle go missing, Lizzie is the only one who knows the area well enough to find them and bring them home. Chock full of themes representing individuality, friendship, loss, loyalty, and bravery, this tale will have young readers falling into step with Lizzie and her trek through the Adirondack Mountains.
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DO gooders
Fostering COMMUNITY Being placed in foster care means losing your support system. It means changing homes and families, schools and friends. For the nearly 1,400 foster care children in San Joaquin County, it can be an isolating experience. This is why Parents by Choice prioritizes creating a community for the children they place in homes. Parents by Choice is a foster care and foster-to-adopt agency that was founded in 2006 by Tony Yadon with the idea that children and their families should be the priority. “He previously worked at another foster care agency, but their goal wasn’t what he thought it should be,” says Stephanie Iaccino, Director of Community Engagement at Parents by Choice. “He wanted an agency with the primary focus on children and creating a positive experience for them by providing different events.” With this in mind, Parents by Choice has created a supportive community environment for its families. The kids are welcomed back to the agency for events like spa days, paintball wars, and holiday parties. “We host these special events because we want to give children a positive experience while in foster care,” says Stephanie. With more than 50 foster families throughout San Joaquin and surrounding counties, Parents by Choice specializes in foster-to-adopt placements. Whether these families end up being the child’s forever home or not, Parents by Choice is there to support the kids and their families. Monthly Foster
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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
BY FAITH LEWIS
Parent Trainings allow the kids an opportunity to mingle while the parents develop their own support system. After foster children turn 18 and are phased out of the system, Parents by Choice makes an effort to continue to offer them support through their Transitional Housing Program. Moving beyond simply helping to provide a physical living space for these young adults, the agency helps teach them life skills such as cooking, budgeting, and interviewing techniques through one-on-one and group classes. Even if you aren’t a foster parent, Parents by Choice recognizes that children don’t come with instructions and sometimes parents just need a helping hand. They realized that their agency could serve as a support for the general community as well, which led to a six-session Positive Parenting Program that is open and free to the public. “I haven’t heard of any other agencies that have this type of support and community system,” says Stephanie. “Parents by Choice is really good about that.” FOR MORE INFORMATION: PARENTS BY CHOICE 2423 W. March Ln., Stockton (209) 478-4554 ParentsbyChoice.net
SERVICES PROVIDED:
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SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE
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FAMILY fun
Shades of
COLOR PAINT BY ALEXANDRA KRUEGER
While public schools continue to phase out art classes in favor of math and science, our community’s youth are becoming less inclined to explore their own creativity. That’s why it’s so important—now, more than ever—that parents make the effort to cultivate their child’s creative spark. Marcie Delacruz and Jamie Rodriguez recognized this creative void in their community and strove to fill in the blanks with Shades of Color Paint, an art studio unlike any other in Stockton. “It’s so important to introduce kids to arts and crafts when they’re little,” says Marcie, co-owner of Shades of Color Paint. “When they’re exposed to painting at a young age, it encourages them to explore other types of creative arts.” From painting on canvas and wood, to decorating pottery, to exploring mixed media art, Shades of Color Paint offers classes on just about everything a budding artist could want. “What I love
about instructing and watching our artists is seeing their reactions at the end of the class: Whether they’re adults or kids, they’re always so amazed at the beautiful piece they’ve created,” says Marcie. “It’s the best part of my job!” And make no mistake, their classes aren’t just for the little ones—with beginner and intermediate adult classes, you too can explore your inner artist at Shades of Color Paint. The best part? “You can bring in your own beverage while you work, like a bottle of wine,” promises Marcie. Check their online calendar to see when the next adult classes are offered! But back to the little ones: This summer the studio is offering a Summer Art Camp where children can come to the studio and play with slime and PlayDoh, make popsicle frame art and dream catchers, explore texture painting, and much more. The Camp runs every Tuesday through Friday from 9 to 11 AM
through July 20th, with the exception of July 3-6. There’s never been a better time to let your Picasso-in-training explore the world of painting, drawing, and mixed media. Add some color to your child’s summer vacation and sign them up for a class—and maybe sign yourself up, too! EXPLORE YOUR INNER ARTIST: SHADES OF COLOR PAINT 5759 Pacific Ave. #B135, Stockton (209) 594-0198 ShadesOfColor.net
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SCHOOL PORTRAITS
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Valid for open studio purchases only. Limit one per customer. Minimum purchase of $25.00 before sales tax. Cannot be combined with any other discounts, offers, coupons, Discount for in-store purchase only. Excludes retail items. Not redemable for for cash, gift cards, or store credit. Some additional exclusions may apply. See store for details.
StoneCreek Village · 5759 Pacific Avenue B135 · 209.594.0198
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SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE
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EXTRACURRICULAR
“Dance is one of the best forms of expression.”
Twinkle Toes
DANCE STUDIO BY ALEXANDRA KRUEGER
In a world where it’s too easy to plop your child in front of an iPad, TV, or smartphone, physical activity is crucial for both a child’s physical and mental development. Equally important is tending to their capacity for creative expression—fortunately, providing all of this for your little one can be as simple and fun as dancing! “Dance is one of the best forms of expression,” says Ashley Trammel, owner of the recently opened Twinkle Toes Dance Studio in Lodi. “If you start kids out early, they’re going to learn coordination, how to express themselves in different ways, how to maintain a routine…
14
And anything involving music is always going to be beneficial.” But, we know how it is—among everything else on a mom’s todo list, adding another activity to cart the kids to and from isn’t the most exciting prospect. Luckily, Ashley had moms and their busy schedules in mind when she opened Twinkle Toes in February. “I used social media to research what the community wanted in a children’s dance studio and worked the studio’s schedule around that.” On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the studio offers early morning classes— local moms wanted something to tire the kids out by naptime. When
THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
Ashely realized her clientele would be mostly single mothers, she made sure her price range fit their needs. At Twinkle Toes Dance Studio, kids from ages two to 12 are introduced to ballet, jazz, and tap dance, through which they practice such important skills as creative movement, technique, and flexibility. The studio offers one class per age group, but Ashley’s favorite is the two to threeyear-old class because they constantly surprise her. “It’s crazy how they act like they’re not paying attention when I’m instructing them, and when it’s time, then they go and do exactly what I told them to,” Ashley laughs. “Like, they’ll be staring at themselves in the mirror and then I’ll say ‘Okay, get into position!’ and they’ll go and do a perfect relevé.” Interested in enrolling your tiny dancer? Twinkle Toes is currently taking new students, so book your child’s spot in a class on their website, or head over to the studio in Lodi and enroll her in a free trial class today! GET FOOTLOOSE: TWINKLE TOES DANCE STUDIO 400 Kettleman Ln., Ste. 1, Lod (209) 712-7989 TwinkleToesDanceStudio.com
Dance with your heart and your feet will follow
Preschool Full Time DayCare Infant Care, Preschool, Pre-K & After School Full Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks Served Daily Conveniently located near March Lane & Pacific Ave. in Stockton
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400 E. Kettleman L., ste. 1 • Lodi
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Visit us @ www.WriteStartLearningCenter.net
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Now offering summer time dance parties! Check out Our Website and Facebook for More info!
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YMCA SPORT • MISSION MOMENT KALANI JOHNSON • SOCCER ALL-STAR Last year was Kalani’s first time playing YMCA soccer. She was nervous but with the support of her coaches she continued to gain confidence every week. Kalani continues to play today. Her mother said Y sports helped Kalani discover the joy of playing, learning new skills and making friends outside of school. Playing also created new connections for Kalani’s parents, as her father is excited to volunteer as a coach for their teams. •• SAN
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15
COMMUNITY connection
PRINCESS
WITH A PURPOSE BY FAITH LEWIS
Just three years ago Jennifer Shields stood in the doorway of a dance studio as her six-yearold daughter cried, afraid to join the other students. Now Jennifer watches her confident nine-year-old perform in front of live audiences at events like the Asparagus Festival, even encouraging other girls to join her on stage and offering to teach them her routine. Jennifer credits the transformation not to the dance classes themselves, but to her daughter’s involvement in the San Joaquin County Princess and Prince Program. “It’s a mentoring program and it helps with building confidence in
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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
young girls, helping them with poise, helping them with etiquette,” Jennifer, who is currently the Princess and Prince Program Director, explains. “We also do a lot of community service events because we want to show them to learn how to step outside of themselves and into their community.” The San Joaquin County Princess and Prince Program is open to all children from ages four to 12 who live in San Joaquin County or surrounding counties. While organizers opened the program up to include boys this year, no princes have yet signed up. The annual $150 program fee
includes the one day Royals Camp and official Coronation ceremony that kicks off the year, as well as a tiara (or hat for princes), sash, and T-shirt. Participants also receive a front row seat for themselves and a chaperone at the Miss San Joaquin County Pageant and have a chance to perform alongside the other princesses during the pageant. The program isn’t all glitz and glam and temper tantrums like the image TLC’s Toddlers in Tiaras brings to mind, Jennifer says. In fact, there’s no competition involved in the Princess and Prince Program at all – that comes later if they decide to continue on
to the Miss San Joaquin County Pageant after they turn 13. The Princess and Prince Program is more concerned with teaching the value of community service, initiative, setting goals, and looking ahead to the future. And this is exactly why Jennifer thinks the program is so beneficial. “We’re all about teaching these girls how to set your goals and then how to get to that and achieve something.” Over the course of the year the princesses have the chance to spend time with Miss San Joaquin County and San Joaquin County Outstanding Teen title holders. They introduce the princesses to the organization’s four pillars – style, scholarship, service, and success – and
help inspire them to follow their dreams and develop concrete steps to achieve their goals. “The Miss America Organization is definitely all about female empowerment, higher learning, and getting women out there in careers,” Jennifer says. “A lot of our girls are out there for STEM jobs, which is nice to see women not just stepping into but leading in a lot of those areas.” The program also encourages friendship and teaches children how to build relationships beyond a classroom setting. “It’s hard because people’s lives are so busy that kids are basically stuck with their friends at school… This gets them out there networking and making friends,” Jennifer notes. “They develop these great friendships, which when it goes through to the competitive level, they’re not competing against each other, they’re competing with each other.”
“
We’re all about teaching these girls how to set your goals and then how to get to that and achieve something. Princesses are welcome to participate in the program until they are eligible to enter the Miss San Joaquin County Pageant. There is no obligation to continue on, but if they decide to take the next step in pageantry, the princesses have the benefit of already
“
being familiar with the organization. The next Royals Camp and Coronation will take place in February of 2019, but participants are welcome to join at any time throughout the year.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: MISSSANJOAQUIN.COM SanJoaquinPrincess@yahoo.com
SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE
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Free (and
cheap!)
18
THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
Family
in San
Joaquin
Fun
County !
BY NORA HESTON TARTE
Gather the kids and get out for the day! Having an A+ summer doesn’t have to mean going broke. Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, Tracy, and other cities in SJ County are full of family-friendly destinations with affordable price tags. Check out our list of summer activities—nothing costs more than $10 per person—then flip to the back of the issue for our calendar to find family-friendly events coming to you.
JULY/AUG | 2018
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LODI Tucked into MICKE GROVE REGIONAL PARK, the JAPANESE GARDEN was created by “Duke” Yoshimura as a way to connect the Japanese community to the people of San Joaquin County. Now a popular wedding spot, the garden features a koi pond , 11 stone and concrete lanterns, a Chinese angle bridge that holds spiritual connotations, a Japanese arch bridge, and a tea house, all surrounded by flowering cherry trees. 11793 Micke Grove Rd. COST: $5 per car.
MICKE GROVE REGIONAL PARK is home to many attractions. In addition to the zoo there’s Fun Town (offering amusement parkstyle rides and carnival-inspired goodies), the San Joaquin County
Historical Museum, Wortley lake and its 40-foot water fountain, water play features, horseshoe pits, disc golf, playgrounds, and more. It’s easy to spend an entire day here without dishing out too much cash. COST: Parking ($5) + tickets, $2-5 per person for the museum, FREE-$5 for zoo admission. Located in Lodi’s historic downtown,
WORLD OF WONDERS SCIENCE MUSEUM is a hands-
on science museum that challenges guests both young and old. Learn how light works, sound travels, and music is made along with other puzzles and exhibits. A gated area offers safe play for young kids. Save on admission with Free Friend Friday (the fourth Friday of the month in July and August). The museum is closed on Tuesdays. 2 N. Sacramento St.
COST: FREE-$7.
Enjoy nature at LODI LAKE. The giant park offers playgrounds, water sport rentals, fishing, and more for local families. Take a walk down a one-mile scenic nature trail where it's easy to spot wildlife nearby before putting that California fishing license to good use. For boaters, Lodi Lake offers a boat launch for a fee, or families can get on the water by renting (or bringing their own) kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats. The youngest kids will enjoy feeding the resident ducks and playing on the play structure. 1101 W. Turner Rd. COST: $5 parking fee. The pool at HUTCHINS STREET SQUARE (125 S. Hutchins St # A) is open for summer! Families can stop in and swim during public swim hours Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 5-7 PM. COST: $2.
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The best baseball is summer baseball and with the Stockton Ports it’s a family event. While tickets are never too pricy at the portside stadium, pick the right date and save big. 20
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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
There are still two dates left for Music in the Park at Hutchins Street Square. On July 25 and August 22 the music starts at 6 PM in the West Park. Local bands headline the event offering a variety of genres for guests. Bring a picnic, lawn chair, and blanket and settle in for two hours of family fun. The band Mystic Moon will take the stage in July, and in August Vine Dawgz provides the entertainment. 125 S. Hutchins St # A. COST: FREE.
STOCKTON Pack a picnic and spend a lazy afternoon at OAK GROVE REGIONAL PARK, a 180acre play space complete with a fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, disc golf, and a nature center. 4520 W. 8 Mile Rd..
COST: FREE.
When those 100-degree days hit, families need to cool off. Step into HOUSE OF ICE CREAM for over the top creations. The ice cream-filled donut packs two treats in one with a freshly-baked glazed donut stuffed with the ice cream of your choice. 947 N. El Dorado St. COST: Treats start at $3. Food trucks are for families. It’s the greatest, cheapest reason not to cook AND everyone gets what they want—no more short order cooking for mom and dad. Get the kids involved in tracking down their favorite trucks (a lot of them congregate around downtown
Stockton) by scouring Facebook pages and Instagram accounts for favorites like GREEN PAPAYA and LORD OF THE WINGS. COST: Cost of food. Jump in and cool off! The City of Stockton operates three swimming pools for community use, and the pools don’t close until Labor Day weekend. Check out BROOKING PARK POOL (4505 Nugget Ave.) and SOUSA POOL (2900 Yellowstone Ave.) noon-5 PM Tuesday through Friday and noon-6 PM on the weekends. OAK PARK POOL (3754 Alvarado Ave.) is open noon-3:45 PM Tuesday through Friday and noon-6 PM on the weekends. All pools are closed Mondays. COST: $2.
MOVIES AT THE POINT are
another family-friendly activity for locals. On select Fridays throughout summer movies suitable for the whole family play under the stars at the WEBER POINT EVENTS CENTER. Get cozy with snacks and lawn chairs or spread out on a big blanket. 221 N. Center St.
Does your kid want to be a veterinarian? A grocer? A fireman? At the CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF STOCKTON they can make believe all those things! The expansive Weber Avenue attraction offers plenty of learning opportunities for kids through hands-on play and real-world discovery. An art room is stocked for projects and a reading nook is outfitted with books for every age. 402 W. Weber Ave.
COST: FREE-$6.
Get transported to a magical place called PIXIE WOODS. The small amusement park offers gentle thrill rides and mini attractions for young kids, including a water play area. It’s a great place to let imaginations run wild while enjoying shade from the large, towering trees that surround. The park is open Thursday-Sunday in July and weekends only starting August 4. 3121 Monte Diablo Ave. COST: FREE-$9.
COST: FREE.
JULY/AUG | 2018
SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE
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If you don’t own a boat it can get expensive to get out in the Stockton Port. Luckily for families,
CALIFORNIA SUNSET PORT OF STOCKTON CRUISES offers free rides for all ages. Climb aboard and settle in for a 1.5-hour guided tour that explores both Stockton’s history and its future as narrators divulge expansion plans for the portside city. 445 W. Weber Ave.
COST: FREE.
Infuse a little learning into your summer events lineup with a family outing to the HAGGIN MUSEUM. Children under age 10 are free, which makes it an affordable trip for young families looking to learn more about the Haggin family’s role in local history and explore art with interactive displays. With the recent facelift there’s more opportunities to learn and larger collections to explore. 1201 N. Pershing Ave.
COST: FREE-$8.
The best baseball is summer baseball and with the Stockton Ports it’s a family event. While tickets are never too pricy at the portside stadium, pick the right date and save big. On Mondays in July field box tickets are $3 each. Have dinner at BANNER ISLAND BALLPARK with $3 hotdogs and sodas, too! 404 W. Fremont St. COST: $3
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While a Buddhist Temple may not be the first idea that comes to mind for family fun, you won’t regret making a trip to STOCKTON’S WAT DHAMMARARAM, better known as the STOCKTON
CAMBODIAN BUDDHIST TEMPLE. Enjoy the artwork
with more than 90 colorful, jewelencrusted statues, and learn a little about the part Buddhism played in Stockton history. 3732 Carpenter Rd.
COST: FREE.
TRACY In Mountain House the CENTRAL PARK SPLASH PAD is a coveted escape for families on hot days. Families from all over the county travel to the sleepy town to enjoy the large park and play area designed for kids. Cushy playground floors make it a safe place to slip and slide, and after kids have run around in the water cannons they can dry off on the adjacent play structure. 25 Main St.
COST: FREE.
THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
When those “ 100-degree days
hit families need to cool off. Step into House of Ice Cream for over the top creations.
“
Discover the Roots of California’s Heartland TK-8th Grade for the 2018-2019 school year! WHY CHOOSE TEAM? TEAM Charter School is a free public school of choice.
• We Offer: Small Class Sizes, Highly Qualified, Dedicated Teachers, A Nurturing and Caring Environment, Parent Involvement Opportunities, Rigorous Academic Curriculum Free or Fee-Based Before and After School Care Programs Available Depending on Eligibility TEAM has three campus locations to choose from: TEAM Bianchi (TK-5TH) 1016 E. Bianchi Rd, Stockton 209-279-5500
TEAM Main (TK-5TH) TEAM Charter Academy (6th-8th) 540 E. Main Street 600 E. Main Street, Stockton 209-462-2282 209-462-2282
Enrollment applications are available on campus and online at www.team-charter.org
Contact Us TODAY! AN JOA •• S QU
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WEEKENDS through AUGUST
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702 Porter Ave., Ste. B., Stockton
209.479.5384 www.UniqueVisionsDanceCompany.com Our studio offers classes in Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Acrobatic Dance and Contemporary. It is our goal to teach our students the art of dance in a structured yet positive environment. Our studio is about striving for excellence in dance, community, school, family and life. We take pride in the fact that all students learn theatre and studio etiquette as well as the terminology, history, and proper execution of dance steps in an environment that builds respect, poise and self-confidence. We are convinced the benefits of their experience will be applied and utilized throughout their life.
Certified by Examination (Level I,II, & III) in the Dance Educators of America Teacher Training and Certification Programs and Acrobatic Arts Module One Certified.
San Joaquin County Historical Museum Micke Grove Regional Park www.SanJoaquinHistory.org
Accredited by The American Alliance of Museums
JULY/AUG | 2018
SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE
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Mountain House also plays host to free MUSIC IN THE PARK concerts. All of the music is familyfriendly and local food trucks show up for cheap dinners on location. Upcoming dates: July 21, August 18 at 5-8 PM. 25 Main St.
COST: FREE.
Tracy has its own MUSIC
& PICNIC IN THE PARK event. For four weeks in July and August families can enjoy the musical stylings of regional talent at Lincoln Park, McDonald Park, and Downtown Park Plaza. Local organizations will be on site as well as vendors. Picnics, lawn chairs, and blankets are all welcome. Concerts start at 7 PM in July and 6:30 PM in August. Multiple Locations.
COST: FREE.
RIPON CASWELL MEMORIAL STATE PARK offers a natural playground for families to explore. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque place to walk for a while, or you’d like to vacation in the state park’s campgrounds, it’s a memorable outing that won’t cost an arm and a leg. 28000 S. Austin Rd. COST: Varies.
MANTECA Bowling is a classic outing fit for the family, and at MANTECA BOWL there’s more than one way to have fun. Stop in for a game (or two) of
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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
bowling paid by the round during open bowl MondayThursday until 5 PM, and then hop over to the arcade where skeeball, air hockey, and driving games are big attractions! Batting cages, also on site, start at $7 for 15 minutes. 1251 E. Yosemite Ave. COST: $3-4 per game.
THROUGHOUT
SAN JOAQUIN COUWNTY REGAL CINEMAS is bringing back its popular Summer Movie Express. For $1 patrons can see a mix of kid-friendly classics and new releases. The exact movies vary by location but expect to see gems like Ferdinand, The LEGO Movie, The Iron Giant, and Despicable Me 3 in the lineup. Most locations offer movies on Tuesdays and Wednesdays starting at 10 AM. COST: $1 Find a FARMERS MARKET. You’d be surprised how much fun kids can have buying vegetables and eating samples. Plus most locations welcome local bakers, makers, and manufacturers to hock breakfast and fresh flowers. Don’t forget to grab a coffee (for you!) and snow cones (for the kids). Multiple locations.
COST: FREE.
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SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE
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HOW to
How To: PACK A LUNCH BY NORA HESTON TARTE
An emphasis on healthy eating, a no-microwave policy, and heavier restrictions on what can and can’t come to school in a lunch box doesn’t make meal planning for schoolaged children any easier. Check out these cool tips—and gear!—to make lunchtime more enjoyable, affordable, healthier, and more delicious!
Pack protein. Kids need protein to make it through the day and eating a daily dose of protein helps the body repair. Pack hardboiled eggs, hummus with pita chips, or nuts (when allowed) to offer protein at lunchtime. If your kid loves a PB&J, and the school will let you pack it, go for a natural spread of 100 percent peanuts—no additives!
Control temperatures. Kids are at school for hours before the lunch bell rings. Take steps to control food temperature and keep items fresh for hours. The option to have hot meals at school (without buying on campus) expands the possible menu. Heat goods before school and place in a thermos to keep warm, or use ice packs and frozen thermoses to keep items cold.
Make it fun. Put a smile on your kid’s face by investing in some lunchtime goodies. BentoUSA.com sells plenty of adorable sauce holders and food molds to make lunch look as good as it tastes. Parents can also add a personal touch to their child’s lunchbox with cute notes. Try writing it on a banana to score extra points for style.
Keep fruit fresh. If apple slices are a lunchtime staple, or you want to include avocado in your child’s meal, sprinkle the fruits with a little bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. Another trick for apples: hold slices together with a rubber band. Find balance with healthy, packaged snacks. Not everything has to be homecooked and made from scratch. Utilize packaged snacks to round out lunchtime. Think organic crackers, rice cakes, and mini bags of popcorn. You can still keep it healthy by skipping chips, cookies, and sugary items such as fruit roll ups and fruit snacks.
GET THE GEAR: Sandwich Cutters to ditch the crust and make meals more fun. Thermos insulated food jar for keeping warm soups and leftovers. Thermos water bottle for keeping drinks cold, especially during hot months. Bento box for tracking portion sizes. Reusable sandwich bags. Not only do they come in fun patterns, these bags are environmentally friendly, too!
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CLASSES ALSO AVAILABLE AT: GymStars Karate 1740 W. Hammer Ln.• Stockton 209.957.1919 GymStars Karate 5170 Pentecost Dr.,Ste B • Modesto 209.549.1919 Hiers Goju Karate 1900 S. Hutchins St • Lodi 209.333.8509 We are working with all Charter Schools with P.E. Alternatives programs
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SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE
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JULY AUGUST
CALENDAR
2018
JULY/AUGUST PARENTS AGENDA STOCKTON PORTS
JULY 1, 2, 3, 9, 10, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 31 AUG 1, 2, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 31
Take the whole family out to the ballgame and watch the Stockton Ports dominate the opposition at Banner Island Ballpark. This season, the Stockton Ports are having a variety of special events and giveaways, such as Root Beer Float Day, Pink Night with a Jersey Auction, and Family Day, just to name a few. So, gather up the family, grab a hotdog and soda, kickback and enjoy America’s favorite pass-time! Banner Island Ballpark, 404 W. Fremont St., Stockton, (209) 644-1900, MILB.com
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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS
LEWIS CARROLL’S ALICE IN WONDERLAND
JULY 5-7, 11-14
Follow Alice down the rabbit hole once more in this classic, whimsical performance at the beautiful Jessie’s Grove Winery. Presented by Lodi’s very own Changing Faces Theatre, tickets to this show include access to wine, food, and a variety of games the whole family will enjoy! Support your local theatre scene and grab your tickets before they’re gone! Jessie’s Grove Winery, 1973 W Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 327-2754, ChangingFacesTheatre.org
MODESTO-CON
JULY 9, 10
Break out the wigs and superglue, it’s cosplay season in Modesto! Let your family’s inner-geek shine and engage in fun, safe activities everyone will enjoy. With celebrity guests including Sam J. Jones AKA
Flash Gordon and Doug Jones from the Hellboy movies and Shape of Water, as well as a variety of awesome panels, this is one convention you won’t forget! Modesto Centre Plaza, 1000 L St. Modesto, ModestoCon.com
ASTRONAUT TRAINING SUMMER CAMP
JULY 9 - 13
We all wanted to be an astronaut at some point; there’s just something about the vastness and otherworldly beauty of space that invigorates the minds of children and adults alike. If your little one shares that same wonder, then be sure to enroll them in this exciting, educational summer camp at the WOW Museum, where they’ll learn everything from health and fitness standards for astronauts, to fun facts about rockets, engineering, and the International Space Station. WOW Museum, 2 N. Sacramento St., Lodi, (209) 368-0969, WOWScienceMuseum.org
GROSS-OLOGY SUMMER CAMP
JULY 16 – 20
Does your child bring you “gifts” from the garden, including slugs, bugs, and pies of mud? Don’t squash that curiosity with a scream—let them cultivate that curiosity for all things sticky, slimy, and ooey-gooey at the WOW’s Grossology Summer Camp! This summer, science and “gross” will come together in a beautiful harmony that is sure to reduce the number of wayward bugs and mud-creations you find in your home. Reserve your child’s spot today! WOW Museum, 2 N. Sacramento St., Lodi, (209) 368-0969, WOWScienceMuseum.org
STOCKTON KIDZ EXPO AT THE STOCKTON ARENA
JULY 21
Featuring Iron Man, Black Panther, and Bunk’d! star Peyton List, taking your child to the Stockton Kidz Expo will award you months of parental bragging-rights. Stars aside, this Expo is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with the family and enjoy bounce houses, face painting, vendor booths, magicians, and more!
Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton, (209) 546-8200, GateHouseLive.com
DSB MOUNTAIN BIKE SPRINT TRIATHLON Rise to the challenge at the seventh annual Dirt, Sweat, and Beer Mountain Bike Sprint Triathlon! Beginning with a 400-meter swim in a beautiful private lake, the race will transition to an 11-mile bike trail across uneven terrain and finish with a 3.1-mile trail run along the scenic San Joaquin River. Cross the finish line and receive a finishers trophy and a free beer, to boot! With a kid’s triathlon added this year, this is an event that will get the whole family moving! Eagal Lakes, 12 W. Lorenzen Rd., Tracy, (209) 640-4252, EagalLakes.com
JERLISA STITCHES OF LOVE TEDDY BEAR PROJECT
AUG 9
Show your child the value of giving back and stitch some tender love and care into teddy bears or quilts for children going through crisis. This project will donate the teddy bears and quilts you make to First Responders who will gift them to hurting children in their time of need. Every second Thursday of the month from 10 am to 2 pm, sow the seeds of philanthropy in your little one’s heart and have them participate in this family-friendly project—your efforts will ultimately comfort a child who really needs it. 4300 Dale Rd., Modesto, (209) 602-8213
STOCKMARKET Support local craft and commerce at this monthly market where small, local businesses and artists gather together to provide goods, services, and artwork to the community. With vendors offering delicious food, live music from local bands, fun games like giant jenga, and local products varying from jewelry to henna to upcycled furniture, this family-friendly event is one that every local family should
JULY/AUG | 2018
Luther King Plaza, 2 E. Oak St., Stockton, StockmarketCA. com
THE LODI MILE
JULY 29
AUG 11
attend this summer. Martin
AUG 12
Bring the kids out to the Lodi Mile racing event for a day of family fun and exercise. The Kids and Family race starts at 9 AM, in which you and the kids can make your way around Hutchins Street Square on two half-mile road laps. After you’ve crossed the finish line, settle into a spot on the roadside to watch the rest of the races! After the event, grab some lunch for the family at one of Lodi’s fine restaurants to wrap up a day of healthy fun. Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi, TheLodiMile.com
STOCKTONCON
AUG 18, 19
Release your inner superhero—or villain— and fly into this year’s Stockton Con! If your child likes comics, video games, science fiction, or anime, StocktonCon invites you and your family to join them in celebrating Pop Culture and local artists. Featuring music, cosplay, Charles Fleischer (the voice of Roger Rabbit) among other celebrity guests, and even wrestling, this Comic Convention has something for everyone! Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton, StocktonCon.com
SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE
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LAST word
Little MIRACLES BY NORA HESTON TARTE
The years are short but the days are long. Why is it every cliché rings truer as I get older? It’s really easy as a parent to become bogged down by the days. Especially in summer when schedules are up in the air and there’s more freedom throughout the weeks. How do you keep the kids entertained for three months?! The day-to-day monotony of parenting a young child can bring down my mood and the hours of playing Hot Wheels and driving to and from swim lessons and sports practice too often feels like too much. But I recently had an experience that made me rethink how overwhelming it can feel to be a parent. We all know that children are miracles. Like honestly, how life is created is nothing short of a damn miracle. I still don’t know how my body did that. But we don’t talk about what it is like when your body doesn’t do what it’s supposed to do. So many women struggle with infertility and pregnancy loss and it’s like this weird taboo topic. We’re ashamed to say our bodies failed. But why? I always knew my son was a miracle, but nearly five years after giving birth to him and a few failed attempts at giving him a sibling and the things I’ve learned about my body have made me realize just how much of a miracle he is. And in that realization I didn’t find sorrow. I found gratitude. I’m not going to sit here and say I’m now this 100 percent peaceful parent who runs my entire life around the wants of my four-year-old. That’s garbage. No one really does that, do they? But in those moments when I used to sigh and insist he play by himself or turn off the TV we were watching together at exactly 30 minutes because time was up, I’ve learned to pause. I get down on the floor more, I play monster trucks for more than ten minutes, I let him watch TV just a little bit longer as long as he promises to cuddle. I’ve changed my outlook a bit. Because I never thought this was the only time I’d get to do these things. And now I’ve learned he’s only four for one year, and then he’ll only be five for one year, and too soon he won’t need me so much anymore and where will I be then? He’s a miracle. A true miracle. And I’ve learned to start cherishing his magic a little bit more.
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an escape ...close to home.
Wine & Roses Hotel features 66 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites with amenities including botanical gardens, a modern fitness center, beautiful pool, relaxing jacuzzi, and unparalleled gracious hospitality. The Lodi Wine & Visitor Center is located right on our property, so wine tasting information, maps and advice are easily accessible. Located in a historic farmhouse, Towne House Restaurant features innovative dishes using the highest quality seasonal and regionally sourced ingredients. We offer an extensive wine list including over 70 local wines. The Lounge is the perfect place to relax and enjoy live music, extraordinary cuisine, specialty cocktails, and fine wine. The award-winning Spa at Wine & Roses offers spa services and packages for women, men and couples. Our certified Aveda
salon features a full menu of services. Relax in the plunge pools or steam room and enjoy a peaceful moment in the tranquility room. Shop at The Nest, a retail boutique featuring therapeutic products and unique gifts.
2 5 0 5 W. T U R N E R R O A D , L O D I , C A 9 5 2 4 2 209.334.6988 •
winerose.com