Active Family Magazine | April 2021

APRIL 2021

SEVEN WAYS

TO COPE with Uncertainty

Summer

CAMP GUIDE

ULTIMATE FAMILY GETAWAY: Mendocino

Volume 8 / Issue 85

[ PARENTING ]

[ HEALTH & FITNESS ]

When Your Child is Worried About School Re-Opening

Let's Get Moving! 4 Reasons to Start Running Today

6

28

Seven Ways to Cope with Uncertainty

[ TRAVEL ]

16

Summer Camp Guide

Ultimate Family Getaway: Mendocino

24

10

[ SEASONAL FUN ] Mommy Makeover Giveaway

34

20

2 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

30 [ SUMMER CAMPS ]

How to Encourage Inquiry-Based Learning Over the Summer

16

24 Unforgettable (Kid-Free!) Hours at Pebble Beach

10

34

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Local Life & Style for the East Bay Area

Publisher/Editor

Marketing Interns

Contributing Authors

Tracie Brown Vollgraf

Talia Dobrec

Advertising Sales Director

Fashion Editor

Whitney Ignacio Whitney@activefamilymag.com

Rachel Fawkes www.fawkeshunter.com

Christine Carter Ph.D. Dr. Laura Markham Elizabeth Kang Andrew Hammel Stratford Schools

Travel Editor

Design/Production

Elizabeth Kang ekang@activefamilymag.com

Teresa Agnew Craft

Active Family is published by TAG Marketing Group Mailing Address | P.O. Box 5158, Pleasanton, CA 94566

Advertising Inquiries | 925.789.0709 Email Address | info@activefamilymag.com

Editor’s Note The sun is shining, COVID numbers are down and most of us are itching to get out of the house and travel! Did you know that you can find a plethora of trip inspiration under the travel tab of the Active Family website? Be sure to check it out! Safety protocols are in place and resorts are anxious to welcome you! Flip to page 10 and 30 to read about our most recent adventures!

Summer is just around the corner and now is the time to secure activities for the kiddos! Our Summer Camp Guide found on page 24 will definitely help! Packed with TONS of amazing camp options, you are sure to find something that appeals to your child!

Wishing you and yours a happy Easter!

Tracie Brown Vollgraf Editor info@activefamilymag.com

4 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

[ PARENTING ]

When Your Child is Worried About School Re-Opening

by Dr. Laura Markham "Dr. Laura...... School is finally reopening in person here and my daughter (age five) says she's feeling nervous about it. Any pointers on what I can to help her prep emotionally?"

If you live in a place where children are returning to classes live after the pandemic shutdown, your child may be both excited and nervous about going back to school. And you might have some of those same feelings, just as we parents often share our child's fi rst-day jitters when the school year begins. Here's your game plan to settle those worries and help your child start school again with confidence. First…

Calm Yourself.

If you're worried about your child returning to school, your child will pick up on your anxiety. Fear is infectious. So start by noticing your own feelings about your child's return to school. a. Do you trust that it will go well? Great! Your confidence will reassure your child. Just be sure that you still listen to and empathize with your child's worries, so they feel free to share them with you. b. Do you assume there will be some bumps (Remembering how to stand in line or sit quietly with their hand up? Getting to know a new teacher in such Dr. Laura Markham is the author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University and has worked as a parenting coach with countless parents across the English-speaking world, both in person and via phone.

You can find Dr. Laura online at AhaParenting.com, the website of Aha! Moments for parents of kids from birth through the teen years, where she offers a free daily inspiration email to parents.

strange circumstances?) but have confidence that your child can do hard things with enough support from you? Good for you for helping your child develop resilience! Keep reading for more tips on how to support your child. c. Are you a bit worried? Or even a nervous wreck? Good for you for noticing!

That's the fi rst step to calming yourself, so you can be that calm anchor for your child.

Your fi rst job is to notice any discomfort in your body, when you think about your child returning to school in person. Thumping heart? Tight throat?

Butterfl ies in your stomach? Just notice and breathe into it. It's only fear. It's normal to feel fear when you're worried for your children.

That's part of being a parent.

Acknowledge that fear, and then give yourself an antidote. Reassure yourself that whatever happens, you can handle it. (Fear is just thinking that you won't be able to handle something. But you've got this!)

6 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

[ PARENTING ] Now consider the thoughts that are giving rise to those

might respond "I hear you. Excited, and scared, and

feelings. For instance:

worried. Tell me about excited."

•

She might say: "I'm excited to see everyone again!"

My child is highly sensitive and won't be able to handle the mask all day. What if they get thrown out

•

of the classroom?

You: "That will be so exciting, right? After all this time?

My child has become very attached to me while

And what about scared? Tell me about feeling scared."

they've been home. What if they balk on the first day?

She might respond by describing a specific fear:

The thoughts causing your fear are designed to prevent

• "I'm scared that there will still be germs at the school."

problems, but they're focused on the negative. What

• "I'm scared that I'll feel left out because the other kids

they're suggesting might not even happen. And if you notice them, and take action to create a more positive outcome, you can almost certainly facilitate a happier outcome. For instance:

have been online with each other."

• "I'm scared that I won't understand the math because I wasn't doing the homework."

• "I'm scared that I will miss you a lot because I really liked being home with you."

• My child is highly sensitive, so we've been practicing with the mask and he's gotten a lot better at handling

• "I'm scared that you'll be too busy for me now because you're going back to work."

it. I've spoken to the teacher, and if he needs a mask break, the aide will take him outside the building for

Acknowledge the fear:

three minutes, a couple of times a day.

Your answer will depend on what she says, of course.

• My child has become very attached to me while

But your goal is not to talk your child out of the fear or

they've been home. So we've been doing a lot of

worry, which will just make her feel she's all alone with it.

playing about separation to work out any anxiety she

Instead, offer understanding.

feels about going back to school. She and I have a whole plan for how she can reassure herself if she gets

"You're scared about that, huh? That is a scary thought.

anxious on the first day.

Tell me more. What's the worst thing about that?"

So now that you've acknowledged your worries, start

Listen.

thinking about a plan that will support your child. Give yourself more inner resource to draw on by focusing on

What our children need most from us when they're

all the times that you knew just what to do to help your

feeling big emotions is just our calm, warm presence,

child relax and feel good. What you focus on is what you

which helps them feel safe to explore the feeling. That's

experience, so this will help shift you from anxiety to well-

how they work through it, so the feeling starts to recede.

being and confidence. That's what you want your child

So just pay full attention, nod, and restate what your child

to pick up from you.

says so they feel you listening.

Then, start the discussion...

Then, reassure: • "I have loved being home with you, and I will never be

Ask your child to tell you three feelings she has about returning to school.

too busy for you."

• "The school has very carefully sanitized every inch of the building and the playground."

Then, ask why she feels each thing.

Empower: For instance, if she says "Excited, scared, worried" you

"Hmm... I wonder what you could do if that happens? It's APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 7

[ PARENTING ] okay to feel that way -- lots of kids do. It might feel scary,

feels free to pull away, and keep scooping her back to

but it wouldn't be the end of the world. I think you could

you and mock begging her to stay. The point of this is

handle it, if we think about it in advance and you feel

to heal those feelings inside her of being worried to let

prepared. You're pretty resourceful! What could you do

you go again, now that she will have do without you

to help yourself?"

at school. In this game, she gets to push you away and reassure YOU that's it's okay for her to leave.

Help problem-solve: "I wonder what you could do to connect with one of the

Another terrific game for separation anxiety is the Bye

kids you like, before you are back at school next week?

Bye Game. It's a simple version of Hide and Seek that

Maybe we can have a playdate with your friend this

triggers just a little separation anxiety, just enough to

weekend."

get her giggling. Say "Let's play Bye-bye. If you want me, yell Peanut Butter" (or whatever she would think is

And, after you've listened as much as you can...

Invite laughter.

Laughter decreases the stress hormones circulating in the body, actually decreasing feelings of anxiety. So play games that get your child giggling to help her feel less anxious.

• Play bucking bronco with her on your back, so she shrieks with laughter as you lurch around the room trying to toss her off.

• Play airplane and zoom her wildly around the house.

• Put your palms against each other and let her push you across the room, giving just enough resistance to make it fun.

Go for any kind of play other than tickling that gets your

funny.) Then hide behind the couch, or the door, for just a moment before YOU yell "Peanut Butter" and run out, and hug her. Say "I missed you too much to leave! Ok, I will be brave! Let me try that again." and go hide again.

Again, come back out before she yells for you, which should get her giggling, especially if you play act being silly and excessively worried. Keep playing this, with you trying to yell first -- and not really leaving -- as long as she is giggling. Again, this game helps your child to face her anxiety about being separated from you, but in a safe way. And since you are the one expressing fear, she can reassure you, which helps her feel reassured as well.

I'm sure you can come up with more rough-housing games that get your child giggling. Just notice what makes your child laugh and do more of it, no matter

child giggling, with as much warmth as possible. (Tickling

how silly it is. It doesn't even have to be explicitly about

doesn't seem to release stress hormones, and often

separation. All giggling defuses anxiety. The more

makes kids more fearful because they aren't in control

giggling the better, when there's been so much fear and

of it.)

anxiety in the past year!

Separation games are also useful, if part of your child's

Is the return to school a challenge for most children,

anxiety about school starting is about separating from

parents and teachers? Yes! But when we face problems,

you. One game is "Please Don't Leave Me." When you

and we have enough support, we develop the inner

have been reading or snuggling with her and she starts

resources to manage those problems. That's how

to get off your lap, pull her back to you and tell her how

we develop resilience, not to mention new skills and

much you love holding her, and to please not go away

capabilities. So take a deep breath and remind yourself

from you ever and you want to hold her always. Keep

"My child can do hard things, with enough support."

your voice light and playful rather than needy so she

And, so can you!

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www.prodigyfitness-jumpstart.com APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 9

[ TRAVEL ]

[ TRAVEL ]

ULTIMATE FAMILY GETAWAY: Mendocino

by Elizabeth Kang

Home to cozy B&B’s, hidden wineries and artists’ galleries, it’s no secret that Mendocino is a favorite among couples looking for a romantic, peaceful escape. But this coastal haven offers plenty for children, too. In fact — with fewer crowds, cooler weather, and a slew of outdoor attractions — it’s got all the makings of a perfect family getaway. Read on to explore all of the family fun this picturesque area has to offer.

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 11

[ TRAVEL ]

STAY Little River Inn — With sweeping ocean views, cozy fireplaces, luxurious soaking tubs, and delicious food, Little River Inn is a place you’ll want to return to year after year. This longstanding Mendocino gem offers a delicious on-site restaurant, a bar, golf course, golf shop, spa, and tennis courts, and is both kid and dog friendly. It’s also the perfect spot for a romantic getaway.

Noyo Harber Inn — Perched atop a riverbank overlooking a river and historic harbor, Noyo Harbor Inn, located in Fort Bragg, is a charming and elegant Inn with a delicious onsite restaurant and bar. Grownups will love the comfortable accommodations and centralized location, while children will delight in playing in the nearby river and beach, and spying Sea Lions sunning themselves on nearby docks.

Van Damme State Park — Located just across from the beach, Van Damme State Park offers tranquil, lush campsites shaded by mature forest trees. With full bathrooms, the beach, and hiking trails all within walking distance from each site, Van Damme State Park is a longstanding favorite among families.

SEE Skunk Train — Even if you don’t have a trainobsessed kid in tow, the historic Skunk Train is a fun ride for everyone. Located just north in Fort Bragg, this gentle all-ages experience takes you through towering redwood forests, passing by sweeping landscapes and breathtaking scenery.

The train has been around since 1885, when it was originally used to haul lumber. The name “Skunk” hails from earlier days when trainemission odors smelled much like skunk spray.

But there’s no need to worry if you choose to 12 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

[ TRAVEL ]

ride in an open-air car. These days, all you’ll smell is the cool, lush scent of the forest.

Mendocino Botanical Gardens — This stunning 47-acre botanical garden is a great way to let the kids get some fresh air, but if you have little ones be sure to bring a stroller, because there are over four miles of trails to explore! Learn about and admire indigenous plants and flowers while enjoying the great outdoors. (Tickets to the Mendocino Botanical Gardens must be purchased in advance, and children 5 and under are free. ) Pt Cabrillo Light Station — Sure to be a highlight on any trip to Mendocino, the Pt Cabrillo Lighthouse has been standing since 1909. It is now a museum and landmark, open to the public from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. year-round. Don’t miss the guided group tours, where you’ll learn some fascinating history about the lighthouse and surrounding area.

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 13

[ TRAVEL ]

PLAY Glass Beach — The world-famous Glass Beach in Fort Bragg has been drawing crowds for decades, who come to comb for the abundant, colorful, polished sea glass found on its shore. The glass pebbles are remnants of the decades of dumping glass bottles, among other garbage, in the area. The dumping has ceased, and all that remains are the multiplehued glass stones the ocean has tumbled and polished, glittering on the shoreline.

Railbikes — Another fun activity at the Skunk Train is to ride the rail bikes, which are electricpowered, silent two-person bikes designed to ride on the train tracks. Ride two hours through towering redwoods and take in panoramic views of the coastline on this unforgettable ride, suitable for ages three and up.

Horseback Riding — Both Ross Ranch and Ricochet Ridge Ranch offer unforgettable horseback riding experiences though a variety of beach, forest, and ranch scenery. Suitable for all skill levels, riders must be at least six years of age to ride at either of these establishments.

Long pants and closed-toed shoes are required.

EAT Trillium Cafe — This quaint little cafe is located at the Trillium Cafe & Inn in downtown Mendocino, with lovely outdoor garden seating with views of the ocean and downtown.

Featuring farm-to-table, seasonal menu items, local wines, and gourmet grab’n’go picnic boxes. The fish tacos, gnocchi and local seafood is a hit with adults, while children love the mac n cheese, crispy fries, and housemade ice cream.

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[ TRAVEL ]

Corners of the Mouth —This quaint worker-owned grocer and health food market is located in a converted church in downtown Mendocino. It’s the perfect spot to grab healthy snacks, fresh fruit and other ready-to-eat treats for the beach or car ride home.

MacCullum House Restaurant & Grey Whale Bar — Elegant yet casual, MacCallum House Restaurant is a must-stop in Mendocino for delectable seasonal fare. Don't miss their unforgettable 5-course tasting menu when you’re enjoying a kid-free trip. The more casual Grey Whale Bar is the place to go with children in-tow, where they serve the best fried chicken in the area.

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 15

[ PARENTING ]

Christine Carter, Ph.D.*, is a sociologist and happiness expert at UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center. She is the author of “RAISING HAPPINESS: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents.” She teaches online happiness classes that help parents bring more joy into their own lives and the lives of their children, and she writes an award-winning blog for *Greater Good* (www.greatergoodparents.org).

Seven Ways to Cope with Uncertainty

by Christine Carter, Ph.D. What should we do when everything feels so out of control?

Living with so much uncertainty is hard. Human beings crave information about the future in the same way we crave food, sex, and other primary rewards. Our brains perceive ambiguity as a threat, and they try to protect us by diminishing our ability to focus on anything other than creating certainty.

Research shows that job uncertainty, for example, tends to take a more significant toll on our health than actually losing our job. Similarly, research participants who were told that they had a 50% chance of receiving a painful

16 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

[ PARENTING ] electric shock felt far more anxious and agitated than

and moving forward from there.

participants who believed they were definitely going to receive the shock.

Because acceptance allows us to see the reality of the situation in the present moment, it frees us up to

It is no surprise, then, that there are entire industries

move forward, rather than remaining paralyzed (or

devoted to filling in the blanks of our futures. See, for

made ineffective) by uncertainty, fear, or argument. To

example, the popularity of astrology apps, or the

practice acceptance, we surrender our resistance to a

prestige of management consultancies dedicated to

problematic situation, and also to our emotions about

strategic planning.

the situation.

Fundamentalist religions counter anxiety by providing us

For example, you might find your marriage to be

with unambiguous rules and absolute truths. Conspiracy

particularly challenging right now. Instead of criticizing

theories provide us with simple explanations for complex

or blaming your spouse—two tactics of resistance—you

phenomena.

could calmly accept your marriage for the time being.

But sometimes—maybe always—it’s more effective not

That doesn’t mean that you won’t feel frustrated

to attempt to create certainty. Though evolution might

anymore, or disappointed, or saddened by the state of

have rigged our brains to resist uncertainty, we can never

things. A big part of acceptance is accepting how we

really know what the future will bring. And in improbable

feel about difficult circumstances (and difficult people)

situations like the pandemic, which has massively

in our lives. But allowing our challenging marriage to be

disrupted our routines and utterly destroyed our best-laid

as it is right now—and acknowledging our feelings about

plans, we need to learn to live with ambiguity.

it—puts us in a better position to move forward.

“Uncertainty is the only certainty there is,” wrote

To be clear, acceptance is not the same as resignation.

mathematician John Allen Paulos. “Knowing how to live

Accepting a situation doesn’t mean that it will never get

with insecurity is the only security.”

better. We don’t accept that things will stay the same forever; we only accept whatever is actually happening

So how can we best cope when everything feels so out

at the moment. We can work to make our marriage

of control? Here are seven surprising strategies.

happier, while at the same time allowing the reality that right now, the relationship or the situation is complicated.

1. Don’t resist

Maybe it will get better, maybe it won’t. Practicing

There’s no doubt: We are living through challenging

acceptance in the face of difficulty is hard, and it’s also

times. But resisting this current reality won’t help us

the most effective way to move forward.

recover, learn, grow, or feel better. Ironically, resistance prolongs our pain and difficulty by amplifying the

2. Invest in yourself

challenging emotions we are feeling. There is real truth to

The best resource that you have right now for making a

the aphorism that what we resist persists.

contribution to the world is YOU. When that resource is depleted, your most valuable asset is damaged. In other

There’s an alternative. Instead of resisting, we can

words: When we underinvest in our bodies, minds, or

practice acceptance. Research by Kristin Neff and her

spirits, we destroy our most essential tools for leading our

colleagues has shown that acceptance—particularly

best lives.

self-acceptance—is a counterintuitive secret to happiness. Acceptance is about meeting life where it is

We humans don’t do well when we defer maintenance APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 17

on ourselves. We need to sustain the relationships that

Those things may seem small—or even luxurious—but

bring us connection and meaning. We must get enough

they enable us to be the people that we want to be.

sleep and rest when we are tired. We need to spend time having fun and playing, just for the joy of it.

4. Don’t believe everything you think Perhaps the most essential stress-reduction tactic that

Don’t be confused: Self-care is not selfish. Selfishness is an anxious focus on the self. Selfish people tend to refer back to themselves a lot by using words like I, me, and mine. They pursue extrinsic goals, such as preserving their youthful beauty or cultivating an image of themselves on social media. They often hunger for

anyone has ever taught me is not to believe everything I think. In uncertain times, it’s particularly important not to believe thoughts that argue for the worst-case scenario.

It can be helpful for us to consider worst-case scenarios

more money, power, and approval from others, and

so that we can weigh risks and actively prevent disaster.

they are often willing to pursue these things at the

But when we believe these stressful thoughts, we tend to

expense of other people or at the expense of their own

react emotionally as though the worst case is already

integrity. That sort of self-focus is linked to stress, anxiety,

happening in real life, rather than just in our heads. We

depression, and health problems such as heart disease.

grieve for things that we haven’t actually lost, and react to events that are not actually happening. This makes us

So, I’m definitely not recommending selfishness. I’m

feel threatened, afraid, and unsafe when we are simply

suggesting self-care and personal growth.

alone with our thoughts.

3. Find healthy comfort items One of the most important ways we can invest in ourselves is to comfort ourselves in healthy ways.

If we are to stay flexible, we need to feel safe and secure. When we feel uncertain or insecure, our brain

Our negativity bias can also set us up for failure.

Expectations can become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

When we expect the worst, we often feel too afraid or close-minded to seize opportunities or respond to challenges with creativity and grit.

tries to rescue us by activating our dopamine systems.

This dopamine rush encourages us to seek rewards,

Instead of buying into every stressful thought, we can

making temptations more tempting. Think of this as your

actively imagine the best possible scenario. We can

brain pushing you toward a comfort item…like an extra

find silver linings to replace ruminations. This counters

glass of wine instead of a reasonable bedtime. Or the

our natural tendency to overestimate risks and negative

entire pan of brownies. Or an extra little something in

consequences.

your Amazon cart.

But instead of turning to social media, junk food, or booze to soothe our rattled nerves, we do better when we preemptively comfort ourselves in healthy ways.

Make a list of healthy ways to comfort yourself. Can you

5. Pay attention The opposite of uncertainty is not certainty; it’s presence.

Instead of imagining a scary and unknown future, we can bring our attention to our breath. From there, we can check in with ourselves. Every time we wash our

mask up and go for a hike with a neighbor? Schedule a

hands, for example, we could ask ourselves: How are

call with a friend? Reflect on what you are grateful for?

you doing right now?

Let yourself take a little nap? Perhaps you could seek out a hug or watch a funny YouTube video.

18 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

Notice what emotions you are feeling, and where in

your body you feel those emotions. Bring curiosity and

we can focus on the outcomes we desire. How can we

acceptance to your experience (see #1).

make the best of this mess? What can we gain in this situation?

Even when it feels like everything is out of our control, we can still control what we pay attention to. We can

When we take responsibility for our lives, we trade the

turn off our alerts to keep the news or social media from

false power of victimhood for the real power that comes

hijacking our awareness. We can drop our ruminations

from creating the life we want.

and negative fantasies by attending to what’s actually happening in our inner world, right now, here in the present.

7. Find meaning in the chaos Social psychologists define meaning, as it applies to our lives, as “an intellectual and emotional assessment

Attending to what is happening within us at any given moment keeps a crappy external reality from determining our inner truth. It allows us to cultivate calm, open-mindedness, and non-reactivity.

6. Stop looking for someone to rescue you When we act as though we are powerless, we get trapped in narratives that leave us feeling angry, helpless, and trapped. And we start hoping other people will save us from our misery.

Although it can feel good when others dote on us, most rescuers don’t really help. Our friends might want to save us—because helping others makes people feel good— and their intentions may be noble. But rescuers tend to be better enablers than saviors. If we stay stuck, they get to keep their role as our hero, or they get to distract

of the degree to which we feel our lives have purpose, value, and impact.” We humans are best motivated by our significance to other people. We’ll work harder and longer and better—and feel happier about the work we are doing—when we know that someone else is benefiting from our efforts.

For example, teens who provide tangible, emotional, or informational support to people in crises tend to feel more strongly connected to their community. Research shows that we feel good when we stop thinking about ourselves so much and support others.

When we see something that needs improvement, our next step is to recognize what we personally can do to be a part of the solution. What skills and talents (or even just interests) can we bring to the issue? What really matters to us, and how can we be of service?

themselves from their own problems.

Meaning and purpose are wellsprings of hope. When the Rescuers tend to give us permission to avoid taking

world feels scary or uncertain, knowing what meaning

responsibility for our own lives. On the other hand,

we have for others and feeling a sense of purpose can

emotionally supportive friends (or therapists) see us as

ground us better than anything else.

capable of solving our own problems. They ask questions that help us focus on what we do want instead of what

So, don’t just wait for this ordeal to be over. Don’t be

we don’t.

resigned to your misery while we wait for a vaccine.

What have you always wanted to do? What outcome

In short: To best cope with uncertainty, we need to stop

are you hoping for? How can you make a real life in this?

complaining. When we drop our fixation on the problem,

Live that life.

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 19

[ PARENTING ]

How to Encourage Inquiry-Based Learning Over the Summer

by Stratford School In school, teachers use inquiry-based learning to increase student engagement. It nurtures curiosity and excitement in students and gives children the authority to learn independently. Inquiry-based learning also allow for more student-led or open-ended learning, which is a great compliment to traditional models of learning where teachers follow a set curriculum as the leader of the class. During an inquiry-based lesson, teachers pose open-ended problems or questions to students, encouraging curiosity and class participation.

No matter what type of learning happens in your child’s classroom, you can certainly encourage inquiry-based learning at home over the summer.

20 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

[ PARENTING ] Be aware of your child’s interest and curiosities

around them. Summer break is a great time for kids to

Imagine your family is spending a summer day on an

participate in these activities, either on their own, with

easy hike at a park. During the hike, your child excitedly

friends, or with the whole family.

points out the flowers growing along the trail or questions why certain trees have different types of branches, bark,

Summertime activities that spark learning might include:

or leaves. They may notice the different birds and unique sounds they make. When your child mentions something

• Going to a local museum

that sparks their curiosity and gets them excited, you can

• Making a bird or butterfly feeder

give them a little nudge to find out more.

• Attending summer camp • Writing a letter to school friends

Use an inquiry-based approach by:

• Visiting a national park • Starting a garden

•

Asking them to come up with one main question they’d like to find an answer to: That might be “Which flowers or trees grow best in our region?” or “Why do birds make different sounds?”

• Helping your child come up with smaller questions that help them with the main question: For example, those might be “What is the climate of our region, and what type of plants grow in this climate?” Or, “How does a bird make sounds, and what are the sounds for?”

• Asking your child to investigate their questions: You can guide them by taking them to the library to find books on the topics, finding resources online, or helping them write down what they find. No matter the results of their research, be sure to record it.

Asking questions and investigating is an important

• Having an outdoor scavenger hunt • Going to the library • Building a backyard fort or treehouse • Going berry picking • Observing the stars from your backyard

Choosing a mix of new activities and your child’s favorite activities is sure to trigger their curiosity. When you encourage them to explore that topic further, they’ll improve their independent learning skills.

Stratford promotes inquiry-based learning at summer camp Stratford has designed the perfect summer camp experience for your child, complete with all the fun, enriching activities they love, and the important safety measures you expect.

part of the inquiry-based learning process.

From our Academic and Specialty Camps, to our When you encourage this method of learning away from

all NEW Day Camps, you can build a one of a kind

school, and during the summer, your child will get into

Summer@Stratford experience for your child with ample

the habit of self-directed learning.

opportunities to explore, discover, make new friends, and learn new skills. Innovative and enriching programs are

Give your child plenty of opportunities for learning

available for children ready for Preschool, Elementary,

Inquiry-based learning is a child-centric, independent

and Middle School. Give your child the Summer@

approach. Letting kids participate in interesting activities

Stratford experience they deserve by visiting www.

allows them to further question and investigate the world

stratfordschools.com/summer!

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 21

[ SUMMER CAMP ]













Spanish Immersion Classes & Camps  Engaging curriculum uses music, art & games

 

 Experienced, dynamic teachers  Ages toddlers to teens   Small class sizes

SUMMER

CAMPS



 





r Join us fo g, in ll story te mes a g t, r music, a f F UN & TONS o l! ño - in espa Mention ACTIVE FAMILY and receive a FREE first time trial class!

www.vivaelespanol.org • 925-962-9177

Lafayette • Pleasanton • And schools all over the Bay Area

PERSONALIZED INSTRUCTION FOR ADULTS, CHILDREN AND TODDLERS.

ZOOCAMP

SUMMER CAMPS & HORSEMANSHIP CLINICS

.............................................

Coaching for the beginner and competitive show rider.

CALL NOW FOR MORE INFO:

925.960.9696

.............................................

Ask for:

Samantha Lazone & Barbara EnDean •

5111 Dolan Rd, Livermore CA 94551

www.showstables.com

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! oaklandzoo.org

22 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

Programs available at

Donald Rheem School Moraga

A traditional summer camp experience

Celebrating Years

925.937.6500 • Adventuredaycamp.com APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y

23

[ SUMMER CAMP ]

Summer Alameda County ALAMEDA Alameda School of Music 1307 High St. 510.769.0195 www.alamusic.org

Camp Bladium 800 West Tower Ave 510.814.4999 www.bladiumalameda.com/ youth-kids/kids-camps

BERKELEY Music Discovery Workshop 2005 Berryman St. 510.528.1725 www.sfems.org

St. John’s Camp Elmwood 2727 College Ave. 510.845.6830 www.stjohnsberkeley.org/ campelmwood

Sticky Art Lab 1682 University Ave. 510.981.1148 www.stickyartlab.com

City of Dublin 100 Civic Plaza 925.556.4500 www.ci.dublin.ca.us

Young Writers Camp UC Berkeley Campus 510.642.0971

Valley Christian School 7500 Inspiration Dr. 925.560.6270

www.bawpwritingcamp.org

www.ValleyChristianSchools.org

Green Stuff Summer Camp UC Berkeley Botanical Gardens 510.643.4832

Edge Gymnastics Training Center 6780 Sierra Court St. K 925.479.9904

www.botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu

www.edge-gymnastics.com

Lawrence Hall of Science UC Berkeley 510.642.5134

Kidz Kraftz Quail Creek Cir. 925.271.0015

www.lawrencehallofscience.org

www.kidzkraftz.com/camps

BERKELEY/ECHO LAKE

Tri-Valley YMCA 6693 Sierra Ln 925.263.4444

Berkeley Echo Lake Camp Lot #7 Echo Lakes Rd 530.659.7539 www.cityofberkeley.info/camps

CASTRO VALLEY Skye Valley Training Camp 10250 Crow Canyon Rd 925.858.8825 www.psi.lunariffic.com/~skyev0/

Sarah’s Science 21525 Knoll Way 510.581.3739 www.sarahscience.com

Camp Kee Tov 1301 Oxford St. 510.842.2372 www.campkeetov.org

Bee Best Learning 20394 San Miguel Ave. 510.728.2110 www.beebestlearning.com

Habitot 2065 Kittredge St. 510.647.1111 ext. 14 www.habitot.org/museum/ activities_camps.html

Monkey Business Camp 2880A Sacramento St. 510.540.6025

www.trivalley.ymcaeastbay.org

Extended Day Child Care 8435 Davona Dr. 925.829.4043 & 7997 Vomac Rd. 925.551.8170 7243 Tamarack Dr. 925.833.0127 & 5301 Hibernia Dr. 925.803.4154 & 3300 Antone Way 925.826.5538 www.extendeddaychildcare.com

Quarry Lane School 6363 Tassajara Rd. 925.829.8000

DUBLIN

www.quarrylane.org

East Bay SPCA Animal Camp 4651 Gleason Dr. 925.479.9670

FREMONT

www.eastbayspca.org/camp

www.monkeybusinesscamp.com

24 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

Learning Bee Summer Camp 39977 Mission Blvd.

510.226.8408 www.learningbeeusa.com

Ohlone for Kids 43600 Mission Blvd.

510.659.6000 www.ohlone.edu/org/ ohloneforkids

HAYWARD Hayward Area Recreation Park District (H.A.R.D.) Day Camps 510.881.6700 www.haywardrec.org

LIVERMORE Horizons East Equestrian Center 5111 Doolan Rd. 925.960.9696 www.showstables.com

Roy’s Magic Camp 2466 8th St. 925.455.0600 www.magiccamp.org

Camp Arroyo Taylor Family Foundation 5535 Arroyo Rd. 925.371.8401 www.ebparks.org/activities/ daycamps/parks_camp_arroyo

Saddle to Ride Topline Training, Inc. 4180 Greenville Rd. 925.858.3933 www.saddle2ride.com

Xtreme Force Dance Company 847 Rincon Ave. 925.455.6054 www.xtremeforcedanceco.com

Double Diamond Sports Academy 2272 Research Dr. 925.830.9765 www. doublediamondsportsacademy. com

[ SUMMER CAMP ]

Camps Valley Montessori 1273 N. Livermore Ave. 925.455.8021

MOCHA Summer Camp 1625 Clay St. 510.465.8770

Contra Costa County

www.valleymontessorischool.com

www.mocha.org

OAKLAND

PLEASANTON

Lakeshore Children’s Center 3534 Lakeshore Ave. 510.893.4048

Gingerbread Preschool 4333 Black Ave. 925.931.3430

City of Antioch Parks and Recreation 213 “F” St 925.776.7070

www.lakeshorechildrenscenter.org

www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us/services/ recreation/gb/gbhome.html

Urban Adventure Camp 5701 Cabot Dr. 510.339.0676 www.urbanadventurecamps.com

Extended Day Child Care 5199 Black Ave. 925.846.5519 www.extendeddaychildcare.com

East Bay SPCA Animal Camp 8323 Baldwin St. 510.569.0702 www.eastbayspca.org/camp

Quarry Lane School - East 3750 Boulder St. 925.846.9400 www.quarrylane.org

California Shakespeare Theater Summer Conservatory 4660 Harbord Dr. 510.809.3293 www.calshakes.org/v4/educ/ summer_conservatories.html

Oakland Summer ZooCamp 9777 Golf Links Rd. 510.632.9525 www.oaklandzoo.org

Lake Merritt Boating Center Youth Boating Camps 568 Bellevue Ave. 510.238.2196 www.sailoakland.com

Raskob Learning Institute 3520 Mountain Blvd.

510.436.1275 www.raskobinstitute.org

Kids N’ Dance 3840 Macarthur Blvd.

510.531.4400 www.kidsndance.com

Quarry Lane School - West 4444B Black Ave. 925.462.6300 www.quarrylane.org

ANTIOCH

City of Danville Camps 420 Front St. 925.314.3400 www.danville.ca.gov/Recreation/ Camps

www.ci.antioch.ca.us/Recreation

Four Stars Gymnastics Academy 1799 Vineyard Dr. 925.778.8650

Vision Tech Camps 117 Town & Country Dr. St. B 925.699.9602 www.visiontechcamps.com

Athenian Summer Programs at Athenian School 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd 925.837.5375

www.fourstarsgym.com

CONCORD City of Concord Parks and Recreation 925.671.3404

www.athenian.org

www.cityofconcord.org/recreation/ summercamps

Camp Concord in South Lake Tahoe 1000 Mt. Tallac Trailhead Rd South Lake Tahoe 530.541.1203

Yang Fan Academy 4160 Hacienda Dr. St. 100 925.699.4664

www.ci.concord.ca.us/recreation/ camp

www.yfacademy.org

Backyard Explorers Corner of Babel Ln & Cowell Rd. 925.671.3118

City of Pleasanton Summer Programs 200 Old Bernal Ave. 925.931.3436

DANVILLE

Color Bundles 301 Hartz Ave. #104 925.727.3137 www.colorbundles.com

Camp Brainy Bunch 741 Brookside Dr. 510.548.4800 www.campbrainybunch.com

Quest Therapeutic Camps Charlotte Wood Middle School 600 El Captain Dr. 925.743.2900 www.questcamps.com

www.cityofconcord.org/recreation/ summercamps/backyardexp.htm

www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us

Expressions Dance & Art 3015 Hopyard Rd. Ste. I 925.200.9908 www.expressions-dance-arts.com/

Young Ivy Academy 5460 Sunol Blvd (#3) 925.548.0188 www.youngivyacademy.com

Inspire Music Academy 2340 Santa Rita Rd. Ste. 7 925.461.3266 www.inspiremusicacademy.com

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 25

[ SUMMER CAMP ]

Summer LAFAYETTE California Shakespeare Theater Summer Conservatory 1000 Upper Happy Valley Rd 510.809.3293 www.calshakes.org/v4/educ/ summer_conservatories.html

Kids N’ Dance 3369 Mt. Diablo 925.284.7388 www.kidsndance.com

Sienna Ranch 3232 Deer Hill Rd. 925.283.6311 www.siennaranch.net

Sherman Swim School 1075 Carol Ln. 925.283.2100 www.shermanswim.com

www.frenchforfun.com

Lafayette Tennis Club 3125 Camino Diablo 925.937.2582 www.lafayettetennis.com

Husky House for Kids 3855 Happy Valley Rd. 925.283.7100 www.huskyhouseforkids.org/ summer-camp-programs

Lafayette Community Center Camps 500 Saint Mary’s Rd. 925.284.2232 www.lafayetterec.org

Roughing It Day Camp 1010 Oak Hill Rd. 925.283.3795 www.roughingit.com

BandWorks Summer Camp 28 Orinda Way 925.254.2445 www.bandworks.com/summer_ orinda.php

Orinda Academy 19 Altarinda Rd. 925.478.4504

Lindsay Wildlife Museum Summer Science Camp 1931 First Ave. 925.935.1978 www.wildlife-museum.org

Camp ARF for Kids 2890 Mitchell Dr. 925.256.1273 www.youth.arf.net

Merriewood Children’s Center 561 Merriewood Dr. 925.284.2121

www.orindaacademy.org

Camp Doodle 66 St. Stephens Dr.

City of Walnut Creek Summer Camps 1666 North Main St. 925.943.5899

www.merriewood.org

www.campdoodles.com

www.walnut-creek.org

MARTINEZ

PLEASANT HILL

John Muir Mountain Day Camp John Muir National Historic Site 925.680.8807

City of Pleasant Hill Camps 147 Gregory Ln 925.682.0896

Castle Rock Arabians 1350 Castle Rock Rd. 925.933.3701

www.johnmuirassociation.org/ muircamp/index.php

French For Fun 3381 Mt. Diablo Blvd 925.283.9822

ORINDA

Rancho Saguaro 1050 Pereira Rd. 925.788.5200 www.ranchosaguaro.com

MORAGA Gaels Summer Camp 1928 St Mary’s Rd. 925.631.4FUN www.smcgaels.com

Camp Saklan 1678 School St. 925.376.7900 www.saklan.org/about-us/campsaklan

OAKLEY City of Oakley Parks and Recreation 3231 Main St. 925.625.7044 www.ci.oakley.ca.us

Diamond Hills Sports Club 1510 Neroly Rd. 925.420.4575 www.sparetimeclubs.com

26 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

www.castlerockarabians.com

www.pleasanthillrec.com

PITTSBURG City of Pittsburg Parks and Recreation 300 Presido Ln. 925.252.4842 www.ci.pittsburg.ca.us

SAN RAMON City of San Ramon Camps 2226 Camino Ramon 925.973.2500 www.ci.san-ramon.ca.us

School of Rock San Ramon 460 Montgomery Street 925.415.3340 510.207.9281 bit.ly/SORsanramoncamps

Adventure Day Camp Dorris-Eaton School One Annabel Lane 925.937.6500 www.adventuredaycamp.com

WALNUT CREEK Adventure Day Camp Seven Hills School 975 North San Carlos Dr. 925.937.6500 www.adventuredaycamp.com

Multiple Locations The Growing Room Academy Various locations around the Bay Offers: 3,4 and 5 Day Camps 925.837.4392 www.thegrowingroom.org

Camp Rocks: Girl Scouts of Northern California Offered at 5 locations: San Rafael (Camp Bothin), Santa Cruz (Skylark Ranch), San Jose (Camp Metro Day Camp), North Lake Tahoe (Deer Lake), and the Sierra Nevada Mountains (Sugar Pine) 800.447.4475 ext. 2091 www.camprocks.org

Mad Science Camp Offered at several local Recreation sites and Community Centers 925.687.1900 www.mtdiablo.madscience.org

[ SUMMER CAMP ]

Camps Steve and Kate’s Camp Danville, Dublin, Fremont, Oakland, Walnut Creek and Berkeley 415.389.5437 www.steveandkatescamp.com

Camp Galileo Alameda, Alamo, Berkeley, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Fremont, Oakland, Lafayette and Orinda 510.595.7293

Lango Language Summer Camps Serving Alamo, Blackhawk, Brentwood, Briones, Canyon, Clayton, Concord, Danville, Martinez, Moraga, Orinda, Pacheco, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, San Ramon, Walnut Creek and surrounding regions 888.445.2646 www.langokids.com/parent/kidslanguage-summer-camps

Out of Area Golden Arrow Camps 644 Pollasky Avenue, Ste. 100 Clovis, 93612 800.554.CAMP www.goldarrowcamp.com

Coppercreek Camp 1887 Williams Valley Rd. Greenville, 95947 800.350.0006 www.coppercreek.com

www.galileo-learning.com

KinderCare Walnut Creek, Concord, Danville, Martinez and Clayton 888.523.6765 www.kindercare.com/ summercamp

Viva el Espanol!

Lafayette, Piedmont, Pleasanton & San Anselmo 925.962.9177 www.vivaelespanol.org/ summerprograms.php

Club Sport Fremont, San Ramon, Pleasanton and Walnut Creek 925.938.8700 www.clubsports.com

Camp Edmo Alameda, Fremont, and Oakland 415.282.6673 www.campedmo.org

Kids’ Carpentry Berkeley, Lafayette, Alameda, Oakland, Alamo & Walnut Creek 510.524.9232

Stratford School Summer Sports Camp & Enrichment Danville, Fremont, Los Gatos, Morgan Hill and Pleasanton 925.737.0001

www.kidscarpentry.com

www.stratfordschools.com

www.techknowhowkids.com

Sky hawk’s Sports Camp Various locations around the Bay Area 800.804.3509

iD Tech Camp Moraga, Concord, Livermore, Berkeley and other Bay Area locations www.idtech.com

www.skyhawks.com

TechKnowHow Kids Dublin, Berkeley, Fremont, Livermore, Oakland & Pleasanton 650.638.0500

Camp Unalayee 3921 East Bayshore Rd. Palo Alto 650.969.6313 www.unalayee-summer-camp.com

CYO Summer Camp 2136 Bohemian Hwy Occidental, 95465 707.874.0200

SF Zoo Camp Sloat Blvd. & the Great Highway San Francisco 415.753.7080 www.sfzoo.org Almaden Equestrian Center 20100 Almaden Rd. San Jose 408.927.0232 www.almadenequestriancenter.net

Silver Creek Sportsplex 800 Embedded Way San Jose 408.224.8774 www.gotoplex.com

College For Kids 1700 W. Hillsdale Blvd.

San Mateo 650.574.6149 www.collegeforkids-smccd.com

www.camp.cccyo.org

Mountain Camp Woodside 302 Portola Rd. Portola Valley 650.576.2267 www.mountaincampwoodside.com

School of Rock Summer Camp 711 South B St. San Mateo, San Jose & Palo Alto 650.347.3474 www.schoolofrock.com

Camp Tawonga 131 Steuart Ste. 460 San Francisco 415.543.2267 www.tawonga.org

Kennolyn Camps 8205 Glen Haven Rd. Soquel 831.479.6714 www.kennolyncamps.com

888.709.8324

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 27

[ HEALTH & RELATIONSHIPS ]

Andrew is the founder and CEO of Prodigy Fitness. He holds a M.S. in Exercise Physiology from Cal State Eastbay. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

He passion for fitness and performance started at a young age as a competitive athlete. He has know come to appreciate fitness as a way to live longer and healthier with those he loves.

Most importantly, he wants to help others to this path as well. www.we-are-prodigy.com

Let's Get Moving! 4 Reasons to Start Running Today

by Andrew Hammel. MS, CSCS I enjoy running. I don’t consider myself a runner, but I love to run. I don’t listen to music and I prefer to run solo. It is my down time, my UP time, my ME time.

I love that running gives me the ability to think. Some of my best ideas have come to me when I was running. And, after all, running is one of the most accessible forms of cardiovascular exercise.

As we move into the spring, now is a perfect time to get outside and start running (or walking). Getting outside in the fresh air and sunshine is one of the best things you can do for yourself both physically and mentally. The best thing about getting outside and running is that it’s free. And, it’s a great way to spend quality time with your kiddos. I have a B.O.B stroller and take my 4

28 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

[ HEALTH & RELATIONSHIPS ] year old daughter with me on most of my runs.

ability to deal with existing mental tension. Exercise also increases concentrations of norepinephrine, a chemical

People often associate running with weight loss. And

that helps moderate the brain's response to stress. The

while that is true to some degree, it’s definitely NOT the

chemicals released during and after running will also

only benefit to running. There are a ton of benefits to

help people experiencing anxiety, feel calmer.

running both mentally and physically. Let’s spend a few minutes exploring four of them.

4 - HEART HEALTH Running strengthens your heart muscle. Think of it this

1 - WEIGHT LOSS

way— the more you do bicep curls, the bigger and

Like I mentioned before, running or walking for that

stronger your biceps will be. The same thing happens

matter can help you lose weight. If you are someone

when you work out your heart, which is the most

who has put your health and fitness on the back burner

important muscle in your body. And a stronger heart,

during the pandemic, getting outside and going for

leads to a lower resting heart rate and an increased

a walk or a run or a hike is a great way to get started.

intake of oxygen. As a result, your heart pumps a larger

At the end of the day, there are better, more efficient

amount of blood per beat, which means it doesn’t have

options for long term fat loss (we will save that for a future

to work as hard.

article), but running is a great place to start.

As a busy mom you must place an emphasis on your 2 - BRAIN FUNCTION

health (I know, easier said than done). One of the best

This is one of the newest and least talked about benefits

ways to do that is by getting outside and going for a

of running, but it makes complete sense. Running raises

run, walk, or hike. And with the weather getting nicer, it

heart rate and blood flow. That includes oxygen-rich

makes it that much easier. There are so many benefits

blood being pushed to the brain. It’s hard to imagine this

to running, outside of weight loss, that I believe it should

wouldn’t be a very good thing. Studies have shown that

become an integral part of your exercise routine. And

high fitness improves total brain volume, including gray

in addition to all of the amazing benefits it can become

matter. Even if you don’t begin running until mid-life or

an awesome way to further bond with your kids and get

later, you gain protection from the kinds of brain plaques

in quality time with them. The best part? It’s completely

linked to cognitive decline and Alzheimers.

free!

3 - MENTAL HEALTH

So lace up those shoes, grab your kiddos, and get

Running can help you control stress and boost the body's

outside and go for a run. You won’t regret it, I promise.

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 29

[ TRAVEL ]

BUCKET LIST CHECKED –24 Unforgettable (Kid-Free!) Hours at Pebble Beach

by Elizabeth Kang Anyone who knows that a golf ball is round has heard of

the lesson and stay reinvigorated our love of the game,

Pebble Beach Resort and its world-renowned, exclusive

and before we left we had added a new item to our

golf courses overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The courses

bucket list — to one day play (not embarrassingly) on this

have been played by every golf legend, big-name

iconic course. Read on for a blissful 24-hour itinerary at

celebrity and politician imaginable. (If only golf greens

the unforgettable Pebble Beach.

could talk.)

12 p.m. Lunch at the 18th Hole So when my husband and I got the chance to stay

Arrive early before your 4 p.m. check-in and settle down

overnight, sans kids, on their 5,300-acre property and

to incredible ocean views and delicious seafood at

take a lesson at their esteemed Pebble Beach Golf

Stillwater Bar & Grill. Overlooking the world-famous 18th

Academy, we knew the experience would have a long-

hole at Pebble Beach, this popular restaurant fills up fast,

lasting effect. Although I have a long way to go before I

so be sure to make a reservation before your arrival. Dine

consider myself worthy to play those legendary greens,

on scratch clam chowder, upscale lobster rolls or local

30 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

[ TRAVEL ]

Red Abalone.

1:30 p.m. Experience 17-Mile Drive If you’ve never driven the famous 17-Mile Drive, now is your chance. (And if you have, it really never gets old.) The entrance fee to this scenic stretch of road is complimentary with your stay, so take advantage and enjoy a picturesque drive through ancient forests while overlooking dramatic sea cliffs and stunning white-sand beaches. Be sure to keep an eye out for what is said to be the most photographed tree in North America, the 250-year-old “Lone Cyprus.”

4 p.m. Check-In Upon entering the Pebble Beach Lodge lobby, one is overcome with a true appreciation of the magnitude of

Rooms at Pebble Beach Lodge are tastefully decorated,

the resort’s legendary past, with framed pictures of past

spacious and comfortable, with many overlooking

and present golf greats. Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods and

breathtaking Stillwater Cove. The Inn at Spanish Bay

Arnold Palmer are shown playing the courses or gripping

(the resort’s nearby sister property) offers bright and airy

just-won Pro-Am tournament trophies.

rooms with a choice of forest or ocean views.

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 31

[ TRAVEL ]

7 p.m. Dinner at Roy’s

8 a.m. Grab.N.Go Breakfast

Roy Yamaguchi’s renowned Pacific Rim cuisine is a

There are several spots at the resort to fuel up for a golf

perennial favorite, and his Roy’s at Pebble Beach

lesson or day on the course, whether you're looking for a

location is a cozy spot boasting some of the best ocean

grab’n’go muffin or a decadent mimosa brunch. I didn't

views around. At sunset, the famous cliffside bagpiper

want to feel sluggish during my upcoming golf lesson, so

draws happy hour crowds who enjoy Mai Tai’s and

I headed to the onsite Pebble Beach Market for a simple

Pineapple Martini’s while jockeying to take the perfect

latte. This gourmet market is chock-full of goodies such

picture. At dinner on the outdoor patio, my husband

as local and imported wine, made-to-order sandwiches

and I savored a perfectly cooked Thai-style peanut-

and fresh-baked goods.

crusted filet mignon and, the standout, a melt-in-yourmouth Misoyaki Butterfish. At the end of our evening, a

9 a.m. Golf Academy

generous slice of banana chocolate cream pie sent us

My husband and I hopped on the complimentary shuttle

into a food coma.

to ferry us to the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Academy,

32 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | APRIL 2021

[ TRAVEL ]

where we promptly met with our phenomenal lead

swing and correct your form, my husband and I eagerly

instructor, Kevin Hanssen, known in the golf world as

headed outdoors to the complimentary practice area to

“the golf whisperer.” Our lesson with Kevin went beyond

test our newly learned skills. This is a great place to warm

our expectations. He was the perfect mix of easygoing

up before a round, or spend a half hour swinging at a

friendliness, calm competence, and on-point advice.

With over twenty years of golf instruction under his cleats, one lesson with Kevin will improve your golf game for life.

We left our one-hour lesson with bolstered confidence in our golf skill and a newfound excitement to play more often.

never-ending supply of balls.

12 p.m. Check-Out Time Before you check out, be sure to browse the charming boutique shops in front of Pebble Beach Lodge, and pick up some new golf gear for yourself or souvenirs for

10 a.m. Practice Your Swing

the kids back at home. Keepsakes are always fun, but —

After our lesson in the indoor golf studio, complete with

believe me — not necessary to remember this quick trip

an impressive robotic machine that helps guide your

of a lifetime.

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 33

MOMMY MAKEOVER GIVEAWAY! Feeling a little run- down? Have you been taking care of everyone but yourself?

Time to take care of Mom! In honor of Motherʼs Day in May, ENTER to WIN an amazing makeover & pamper package including:

• Gym & Yoga Membership • Spa Pamper Package • Tanning Services • Hair & Makeup A whole New You! • Shopping Spree • Photo Shoot • Date Night & more!

Giveaway launches April 1, 2021 and ends May 31, 2021.

Enter to WIN an amazing makeover at www.activefamilymag.com www.facebook.com/activefamilymag or Instagram@activefamilymagazine Winner will be announced in June.

[ PARENTING ]

®

Preschool

Education is a Lifelong Commitment

®

Discover Quarry Lane

NOW ENROLLING Join our Open House every Wednesday! www.QuarryLane.org/Preschool

Toddler, Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten Academic-Based Curriculum Passionate, Experienced Educators

PLEASANTON WEST CAMPUS Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten 4444B Black Ave., Pleasanton, CA

925.462.6300

Full and Half Day Schedules Computer, Spanish, Music, P.E., and Library Two Preschool Campuses in Pleasanton

PLEASANTON EAST CAMPUS Toddler through Pre-Kindergarten 3750 Boulder St., Pleasanton, CA

925.846.9400

APRIL 2021 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 35 CA Licenses: 013411303, 013411304, 013411305, 013417681