Active Family Magazine | July 2020

JULY 2020

I Was a Hardto-Be-Around Adult ... Until I Knew Better

SUMMERTIME CHALLENGES FOR FAMILIES DURING THE PANDEMIC

SAFE-SUMMER-FUN GUIDE

Volume 7 / Issue 77

[ PARENTING ] Here's Your Magic Wand to Be Measurably Happier, Starting Today

Summertime Challenges For Families During the Pandemic

[ TRAVEL ]

22

8

Safe-Summer-Fun Guide

6

[ WOMEN & RELATIONSHIPS ]

[ SUMMER CAMPS ] Summer Camp Guide

How to Use Positive Parenting During a Pandemic (And Why You Should)

I Was a Hard-to-Be-Around Adult…Until I Knew Better

12

26

16

12 2 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

8

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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

Amy McCready Dr. Laura Markham Rachel Macy Stafford Laurie Hollman Elizabeth Kang

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 4th of July holiday looks slightly different this year. No parades or fireworks, but there is still outdoor fun to be had. Check out our Safe-Summer Fun Guide on page 9. Together we can continue to keep Covid cases down by wearing a mask, staying outside and keeping our social circles small. This too shall pass.

Stay safe and enjoy your July.

Tracie Brown Vollgraf Editor info@activefamilymag.com

4 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

IT’S A

STING

FLING

MARCH 27–MAY 25 It’s spring’s most stunning event.

Get up close with some of nature’s most vibrant, venomous species in the aquarium, explore larger‑than‑life moving models in our East Garden, and more.

Generously supported by The Herbst Foundation, Inc.

Every visit supports vital scientific research.

Buy ahead and save at calacademy.org

[ PARENTING ]

Here's Your Magic Wand to Be Measurably Happier, Starting Today

by Dr. Laura Markham "Everyone has a "set point" for happiness, just as they do for weight." - Martin Seligman The world has been pretty challenging lately. Do you, like me, have a list of things you'd like to change? We could start with society, move on to our children, and finish up with ourselves. Do you think you’d be happier if you could wave a wand and make things more perfect? Join the club! I wish I could hand you that wand.

But I'm afraid I have bad news. Your life will never be perfect. You will never be perfect. Your child will never be perfect. And while we're working on evolving our society, perfection is probably not in the cards. None of us will ever be perfect; we're human!

There's something even worse, I'm afraid. Research shows that even desirable changes in our lives don't necessarily make us happier for long, UNLESS we change our happiness set points.

But I have good news, too.

You actually already have that magic wand, not for perfection, but for more happiness, even with things exactly as they are. Scientists have proven that you can change your happiness set-point so that you feel measurably happier.

Here are five strategies you can use, starting today.

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.

6 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

1. Choose gratitude.

Feeling appreciation and gratitude makes us measurably happier. There is suffering in every life, and sometimes it seems there is a whole lot more dark than light. But even in the hard times, there are so many blessings. Try to find a way to focus on those as much as you can. (If it helps, remind yourself that much of our growth comes from overcoming those challenging hurdles.)

For parents, simply appreciating your child -- delighting in them, enjoying them -- can put the joy back into being a parent. Side benefit: Feeling our delight in them is transformative for children.

Want some ideas on incorporating gratitude into your life? Gratitude Practices to Change Your Happiness Set Point

[ PARENTING ] 2. Choose to make the most of life by seeing the bright

actually sabotages happiness. That's because we're

side, even when there's a setback.

always holding the reality of our experience up to

Optimists are healthier, happier, have more fulfilling

some ideal that can never be attained, instead of

relationships, and live longer. Want to retrain yourself to

appreciating what we have. It's like we're always fighting

see the glass as half-full? See this article on helping your

with life.

child, and yourself, develop optimism.

So give up on perfection and accept what is. You can 3. Choose to stay conscious and present, even with

still take action to change things. But you'll do that more

discomfort.

effectively from a positive, appreciative mindset.

Humans don't like discomfort. So when we start to feel uncomfortable, we run in the other direction, or we

5. Choose love.

numb ourselves out. But that just deadens our feelings of

The path to happiness requires you to accept and love

aliveness and joy. The only way around uncomfortable

yourself just the way you are, messy imperfections and

emotions is through. Those feelings of sadness or

all. In fact, I sometimes think that the only thing that really

frustration are there for a reason -- they're messages.

matters in parenting is for the parent to deeply love and

Once we're willing to feel them, we get the message,

accept him or herself.

and the emotions begin to dissipate.

That's because your unconditional love for yourself is Want to practice getting comfortable with discomfort?

what allows you to love your child unconditionally. We

Just sit for ten minutes with your eyes closed and notice

know that's what every child needs, and deserves. In

what you experience. Discomfort is bound to come up.

fact, unconditional love -- even when you're setting limits

Don't try to change your breath or your thoughts or the

-- cures a whole lot of problem behavior (and maturation

sensations in your body; just notice them. When you

cures most of the rest.)

notice discomfort, don't try to make it go away -- just notice, and flood yourself with compassion and love.

For a whole series on healing your ability to love unconditionally, start here.

Notice that I'm describing a basic meditation here.

Research shows that an hour a day of any kind of

These practices will change your life over time. But why

meditation can rewire your brain and change your

not start today, by talking to yourself like someone you

happiness set point in only eight weeks. But even ten

appreciate and adore? As meditation teacher Stephen

minutes a day, repeated for long enough, will be just as

Levine reminded us, "Nothing has to be different for you

effective.

to be whole.�

Over time, you'll notice that you're less defensive, less

You'll find that accepting yourself spills over into how you

prone to take things personally, that you're curious

talk to your child. And your child's inner voice, when he

instead of uncomfortable with your discomfort, and that

grows up, will come from how you talk to him or her now.

you feel a whole lot more alive and joyful.

Nothing has to be different for you to love yourself, wholly 4. Choose what is.

and completely, exactly as you are. Nothing is stopping

We all wish things were perfect. But you don’t need

you from being happier, starting today.

perfection to be happy! In fact, pursuing perfection

What are you waiting for?

JULY 2020 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 7

[ TRAVEL ]

[ TRAVEL ]

SAFE-SUMMER-FUN GUIDE Your Guide to Safe, Family-friendly Day Trips Around the Bay Area and Beyond

by Elizabeth Kan Summer is in full swing, but unfortunately, COVID-19

Other wonderful open-air markets to visit include

doesn’t seem to be going away, or slowing down for that

Santana Row, in San Jose, San Ramon City Center, in San

matter. Summer camps have been canceled, tropical

Ramon, The San Francisco Premium Outlets, in Livermore,

getaways delayed, and even backyard pool parties,

and the Stanford Shopping Center, in Palo Alto.

postponed. While shelter-in-place restrictions are easing up a bit as we enter Stage 2 in Alameda County, (Stage

A DAY AT THE BEACH — Various Locations

3 in other areas,) it’s difficult to determine what’s now

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk may be closed, but

officially open, and if it’s even prudent to venture out yet.

there are plenty of beaches around the area that are welcoming visitors who practice social distancing. A

We’ve put together a little activity “cheat sheet” to help

relaxing and fun-filled day at the beach will wash away

navigate the murky waters of summer 2020. Read on for

all of your pandemic worries, for a few hours at least.

some day-trip ideas on where to safely take the family for some much needed and SAFE summer fun.

Capitola Beach — Just south of Santa Cruz, Capitola Beach, in the charming beach town with of Capitola,

VISIT THE FERRY BUILDING MARKETPLACE

offers soft sand and calm surf — perfect for little ones.

— San Francisco, CA

Parking can be tricky near the beach, but there’s a

The Ferry Building Marketplace has been meticulously

paid lot a few blocks away if you’re willing to walk a

planning its re-opening for months, and its new safety

few minutes. Spend a few hours at the beach and then

measures include expanded outdoor seating that’s

grab a slice of pizza from Pizza My Heart, or a few fish

10 feet apart, hand sanitizing stations throughout the

tacos from Margaritaville, both conveniently located

marketplace, hands-free entrances, and a dedicated

right along the waterfront. Bathrooms with outdoor rinse

janitorial staff who will ensure a clean, disinfected eating

showers are located onsite.

area between seatings. Face masks are required for both staff and visitors.

Martin’s Beach — This Half-Moon-Bay secret used to be a private beach, but is now open to the public.

A rotating lineup of live, acoustic music entertains

Featuring tide pools, small crowds and calm waves, this

shoppers and diners at the Ferry Building, where guests

little beach is a haven for little ones, and the scenery

can easily purchase food and drinks to-go, and enjoy at

is great, too. There’s a jagged rock that juts out of the

any of the numerous outdoor dining tables, alongside

shoreline, making for a scenic backdrop for beach pics.

gorgeous, sweeping views of the SF Bay. Grab a gourmet

A small paid parking lot is located a few minutes from the

grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup combo at

beach, and a free parking area is located at the top of

Cowgirl Creamery’s Sidekick, followed by an artisan ice

the hill down to the beach.

cream cone at Humphry Slocombe. Be sure to purchase some goodies to take home with you such as fresh-

China Camp State Park — Nestled along the shore of

baked bread from Acme Bread, local honey wine from

San Pablo Bay in San Rafael, this state park offers a

Bee D’Vine, gourmet coffee from Blue Bottle Coffee, and

dog-friendly beach that’s popular with kayakers and

hand-made chocolates from Dandelion Chocolate.

swimmers, and plenty of hiking and biking trails, along JULY 2020 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 9

[ TRAVEL ]

with picnic tables, for a full day of fun. China Camp has a

climbing, zip lines, free falls, rappelling, and more, while

rich history as a thriving shrimping village, and is a diverse

younger ones will love the “Kidz Kove” play area for kids

and abundant wildlife habitat. Visitors have access to

ages three to 13, where they can climb, balance, run,

parking lots from 8 am to sunset, and are required to

bounce and swing to their heart’s content. There’s also a

practice social distancing.

Miner’s Maze to explore, and zip lines appropriate for small children. Quarry Park also offers paddle boats to fit the

Baker Beach — With parking re-opened at this popular SF

whole family, and thrilling aerial adventures to experience.

beach, it’s best to come early to snag a spot and carve out an area away from the crowds. This picturesque beach

The park is taking COVID-19 precautions very seriously

is known for its stunning backdrop of the Golden Gate

by limiting capacity, enforcing social distancing, using

Bridge and Marin Headlands.

temperature checks, sanitizing regularly, and more.

EXPERIENCE QUARRY PARK ADVENTURES — Rocklin, CA

GO HORSEBACK RIDING

Quarry Park Adventures is an exciting, completely

— Boarding on The Lake, Granite Bay, CA

outdoors, adventure park with a jam-packed roster of fun

There may be no better way to social distance than by

activities. This Rocklin-based park is absolutely worth the

going on a horseback ride, where the horses ensure a

drive from the Bay Area, and includes fun activities for the

good 10 feet apart, at least. There may be no better place

entire family. Quarry park is a huge outdoor quarry with a

to take that ride than at Boarding on The Lake, located in

large variety of active adventures to choose from.

Granite Bay. This established boarding and riding company takes riders on professionally trained horses to experience

Teens, tweens and adults will be thrilled with the rock 10 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

the beauty of Granite Bay and Folsom Lake. Riders

[ TRAVEL ] meander through forest, past Folsom Lake, and along a

made pie on your way out!

breathtaking beach.

Berry Island Farm — In Gilroy, Berry Island Farm The two-hour rides are by reservation only for riders ages

is currently offering blackberries, strawberries,

10 and up. Riders are matched to a horse that fits their

olallieberries, and boysenberries for U-Pick, only on

level of experience and are given a short tutorial prior

weekends, from 9am to 1pm. Closed-toe shoes are

to the horseback ride. All staff members follow proper

required, as are face masks.

COVID-19 protocol, and guests who have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath are kindly asked to stay home.

VISIT A U-PICK FARM— Various Locations While July marks the end of the cherry and strawberry picking season, there is still some delicious in-season fruit available, just waiting to be plucked by tiny eager hands! Most of the U-Pick farms in the area require online reservations or limited numbers to ensure less crowds, enabling them to adhere to social distance guidelines.

Want even more ideas for a fun afternoon outside the home? Skate parks are now open, as are open-air museums, botanical gardens, dog parks, golf courses, drive-in movie theaters, national parks, and more!

Staying safe and adhering to health advisories doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with the fam —just wear your face masks, keep a healthy distance apart from others, and get out and make some fun summer memories!

Don’t forget your mask, because even though you’re outdoors, they are required.

The Farmer’s Daughter — This Brentwood farm stand and U-Pick orchard is currently inviting guests to pick their own peaches and apricots. Open weekdays, 8am to 7 pm, and weekends, from 8 am to 6pm.

Duckworth Family Farm — This beautiful farm is located in Sebastopol, and welcomes families to pack a picnic lunch and head up to pick plump, juicy blueberries on Saturdays and Sundays from 8am - 2pm. Masks required, and check availability before going, because they often sell out.

Crystal Bay Farm — Offering U-Pick strawberries and raspberries, Crystal Bay Farm in Watsonville is allowing limited numbers to come pick, visit farm animals, and enjoy their cool, coastal air. They are not allowing picnicking at this time.

Gizdich Ranch — Located on Watsonville, Gizdich Ranch is allowing limited numbers to enjoy U-Pick berries (strawberries, blackberries, olallieberries, boysenberries,) depending on availability. Be sure to pick up a freshly JULY 2020 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 11

[ WOMEN & RELATIONSHIPS ]

Rachel Macy Stafford is a certified special education teacher with a Master’s Degree in education and ten years of experience working with parents and children. In December 2010, this life-long writer felt compelled to share her journey to let go of distraction and grasp what really matters by creating the blog “Hands Free Mama.” Using her skills as a writer, teacher, and encourager, Rachel provides readers with simple, non-intimidating, and motivating methods to let go of distraction and connect with their loved ones. Rachel’s work has been featured on CNN, Good Morning America, Global News, USA Today, TIME.com, MSN.com, The Huffington Post, and Reader’s Digest. Her blog currently averages one million visitors a month. Rachel’s new book, HANDS FREE MAMA, is a New York Times Bestseller.

I Was a Hard-to-Be-Around Adult … Until I Knew Better

by Rachel Macy Stafford A few months ago, I came across a photo taken during a beach vacation with my extended family when my fi rst-born daughter Natalie was a baby.

Some beach vacation memories kind-of run together, but not this one. I remember every shameful moment of that trip.

Seeing my husband’s family members standing next to me, and recalling how loving they were to me when I was so hard to be around, brought a lump to my throat.

While no one ever came right out and mentioned how difficult I was to be around during that trip… that season… that period of my life… I knew I was.

I was controlling and critical; I overreacted to small things, and nothing was ever good enough.

12 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

[ WOMEN & RELATIONSHIPS ] Hard-To-Be-Around was an Understatement.

I went to print out the script the night before, it was nowhere to be found.

I remember how my husband, Scott, kindly booked me a facial during that week in an effort to help me relax.

After a futile two-hour search, I walked upstairs and

About mid-way through the treatment, the esthetician

knocked softly on Natalie’s bedroom door.

left me alone for quite some time. Instead of viewing her extending absence as a chance to simply rest and

“Is everything ok?” she said, sitting up quickly in her bed.

breathe, I impatiently got up, got dressed, and left in a

“I lost my speech that I am giving in the morning. I just

huff.

know I saved it, but I can’t find it,” I said trying to hold back tears. “Can you help me?”

While recalling my behavior — that I now know was masking a deep, unspoken pain — my face burned with

Natalie promptly took my computer into her hands and

embarrassment.

started clicking buttons, opening folders, and checking

But, as shame and regret were about to sabotage the

recent documents. For over ten minutes, she searched by

present moment, I gently told myself, “No. You’re not

title and various key words.

going there. Today matters more than yesterday; who you are becoming matters more than who you once

While she searched, Natalie said not a word, which

were.”

gave me time to think. I remember my thoughts in that moment quite vividly:

For added measure, I recited Maya Angelou’s wise saying, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then

She is not shaming me.

when you know better, do better.”

She is not blaming me.

I reminded myself that is exactly what I’ve done over the past decade of my life. By chronicling my most

She is not doubting or dismissing me.

painful truths and using them as catalysts for healing and growth, I’ve become the person I didn’t think I’d ever

She is seeing me.

become: She is standing with me.

Someone who is easy to be around.

My problem is her problem.

And I don’t mean “easy” as in pushover, but “easy” as in accepting, open, optimistic, forgiving, and peaceful.

I am not alone.

And as a result, my relationships with the people I love have also been healed and strengthened.

I can breathe.

Like any positive transformation, this growth didn’t

Unable to find the document after trying everything

happen overnight, and honestly, I’m not sure I would

she knew how to do, Natalie reluctantly handed the

have fully realized its impact on my relationship with my

computer back to me, saying how sorry she was.

daughter had it not been for a late-night disaster that

“Thank you so much for trying,” I said, feeling

occurred a few months back.

unexpectedly hopeful.

I was due to deliver a keynote for an important

As I walked downstairs, I realized that watching Natalie

organization that empowers young people. I’d worked

open files triggered a memory from a few days prior. I’d

on the presentation for weeks, making sure to save the

been working away from home and when I tried to save

document throughout the writing process. But when

my presentation, I got a message saying it could not be JULY 2020 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 13

[ WOMEN & RELATIONSHIPS ] saved unless I was connected to the internet.

feeling defensive.

I sat down at the kitchen table feeling confident that

Based on their commentary, I was able to come to

my presentation was saved in a remote location. As I

gather some conclusions. Here is a short list of adult

searched, a text from Natalie popped up. She wrote:

behaviors that increase the chance of being invited into the sacred spaces of young people’s lives.

“Text me if you have any luck finding it. I’m really sorry this happened. I know how hard you work to always be

Easy-To-Be-Around Adults…

prepared for these things, and you do so much for us all.

I’m really sorry, and I hate that this happened. If there is anything else I can do, let me know.”

• Don’t always expect conversation. They accept that quiet is needed – and even welcome or create periods of connective silence with the young people

I couldn’t explain why, but her compassionate response

they love.

to my plight gave me added hope and determination; I felt like no matter what resulted, I could deliver that

• Don’t take bad attitudes and grumpy dispositions

speech in a few hours. Had I not had Natalie to turn to

personally. They realize young people are coping with

and had she not received me so kindly in my moment of

a lot, both internally and externally, and understand

crisis, I’m certain I would not have felt that way.

that the poor attitude being displayed is most likely not about them.

Reflecting back on that moment now, there is also this: • Don’t interrogate. Instead of peppering young people Had I stayed the person who was hard to be around–

with questions, Easy-To-Be-Around Adults make themselves available and approachable. When the

A person who couldn’t be pleased,

young people DO talk, the adult pushes aside what they are doing to listen fully and express genuine

A person who held tightly to her plan, A person who met mistakes with exasperated sighs,

interest in what is being said.

• Don’t judge decisions. Maybe it’s not the choice the

I’m not sure my daughter would have welcomed me

adult would have made, but that does not mean

into her room late that night… and I’m quite certain she

it’s wrong or won’t result in a learning experience.

wouldn’t be welcoming me into her own catastrophes,

Easy-To-Be-Around Adults express curiosity instead

heartaches, and challenges as she grows.

of judgment by saying something like: “I’d like to hear more about why you took that route.”

Interestingly, this experience relates to one of the most unforgettable conversations I heard when I spoke with

• Don’t have all the answers. It’s hard to be around

a group of middle schoolers last year. It was the kind

someone who knows it all, especially when it comes

of insight that fueled me to keep writing my book, LIVE

to one’s own personal life. Throughout a teen’s path

LOVE NOW, even though it was the hardest endeavor

to independence, they need a sounding board, not a

I’ve ever pursued.

know-it-all.

A few kids had gathered around a desk after my

• Don’t expect perfection. Easy-To-Be-Around

presentation, and a student mentioned that certain

Adults communicate that mistakes are part of life,

adults are “hard to be around.” The other kids nodded

dismissing the notion that perfection is needed in life’s

in agreement and began to talk. I recognized myself

journey, which is very damaging to personal growth,

in their comments and felt grateful to be in a position to

happiness, and wellbeing. Easy-To-Be-Around also

hear – and really listen to – what they had to say without

share their own mistakes, becoming a trusted source

14 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

[ WOMEN & RELATIONSHIPS ] of support when things go wrong.

simply SEEING this young woman and her pain provided the fuel she needed to move forward with hope.

• Don’t comment on appearance. Easy-To-Be-Around Adults trust that their kids are showing up in whatever

“Feeling seen and heard enables human beings to reach

way they feel most comfortable. They accept young

their highest potential.”

people “as is,” knowing that even the most wellintentioned “suggestions” regarding appearance feel

I’d said those exact words in the talk.

like rejections of who they are.

But this young person knew by the cracks in my voice As for the whole presentation debacle, I was able to

that it wasn’t just talk–

find it very early that morning in a remote location called OneDrive I didn’t even know existed. Although it

I’ve lived it… I’ve practiced it.

was around one o’clock in the morning, I suddenly felt awake and excited. For the fi rst time ever, I would have

And now, the people around me can breathe easier and

the opportunity to share pieces of my new book with an

so can I.

audience that would eagerly embrace and apply my insights.

Thank goodness it’s not too late to become who you never thought you’d be.

I expected the audience to be receptive to my honest sharing, but nothing could have prepared me for the

Thank goodness we have the chance to love better,

response of one particular teen.

once we know better.

I was talking to a group of people after the event when she came up and put her hand on my arm.

“Can I just hug you?” the young woman said.

When we embraced, I noticed she let out an audible sigh of relief, whispering, “Thank you.”

Celma’s Housecleaning Service celmaoliveira789@yahoo.com

(925) 826-6397 As she held on and I held on, several thoughts of gratitude came to mind – Thank goodness for second chances… third chances… and forty-second chances.

Thank goodness, the truth is not the end; it is the beginning.

Thank goodness, struggles shared are struggles halved.

I could not find what this young person had lost any more

Offering meticulous & affordable housecleaning for busy families!

References Available!

than Natalie could find my misplaced presentation–but JULY 2020 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 15

[ PARENTING ]

Parenting expert and “recovering yeller” Amy McCready is the Founder of Positive Parenting Solutions and the author of If I Have to Tell You One More Time…

The Revolutionary Program That Gets Your Kids to Listen Without Nagging, Reminding or Yelling (Penguin, 2011.) Amy is a regular parenting contributor on The TODAY Show and has also appeared on Rachael Ray, CBS This Morning, CNN, Fox & Friends, MSNBC, Steve Harvey and elsewhere. In her most important role, she plays mom to two teenage boys. Follow Amy on Twitter @AmyMcCreadyPPS. For more information on Postive Parenting, go to www.positiveparentingsolutions. com/course-details

How to Use Positive Parenting During a Pandemic And Why You Should

by Amy McCready Let me guess: Nothing is putting a magnifying glass on your family’s imperfections like the current quarantine.

And the magnifying glass gets hotter by the minute.

Your toddler is banging his head and slobbering against the window, your tween has been communicating only in grunts, and your 8-year-old’s remotelearning viola lesson reminds you of a dying cat.

Yes, we’re all feeling it. Things got real…fast. And as a byproduct, family time just got a lot more intense.

We read words like “unprecedented” and “new normal” ad nauseam, but they fail to make it easier.

We hear powerful stories around the world showing unity–whether it’s an entire city applauding health care workers or entire countries staying home to “flatten the curve”–but, at home, we’re still worried about an unknown future.

16 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

[ PARENTING ] And, at this point, despite knowing full well we should

away before we start yelling. It means we take a breath

embrace this time with our kids, many of us are craving a

and count to ten before responding. It means we choose

little break (or two…or three…).

not to fight fire with fire.

I’m here to tell you, though, you’re not alone. While we

Keeping calm cools our heads while allowing us to

heavily engage in our online communities–whether

parent intentionally and strategically.

through Instagram, FaceTime calls, or Zoom chats– there are also amazing parenting resources to help

If you choose not to let your son’s refusal to do algebra

us navigate this pandemic with our families. (You can

infuriate you, you’ll receive less stressful backtalk. If

check out our free online Positive Parenting class for an

you ask your daughter to take out the trash and she

excellent introduction to our 7-Step Parenting Success

says “no,” you’ll dodge a heated power struggle by

System.)

responding calmly with an alternative tactic rather than a fiery ultimatum.

If you haven’t yet tried Positive Parenting (or aren’t even sure what it is), a time of heightened chaos and

Instead of driving ourselves nuts reminding and

uncertainty is the perfect time to start. You’re already

nagging our kids to get their work done, we can use the

reinventing schoolwork, working from home, and

controlled When-Then tool.

creating a new temporary lifestyle. You don’t exactly have a lot of time, yet you have more time at home than

“When you take out the trash, then you can watch your

ever to implement something new.

TV show.”

Parenting, even in the best of circumstances, is hard. So,

It seems overly simple, but it’s profoundly effective.

if you’re questioning your sanity right about now, I know

Letting our kids determine when they’d like to complete

a few Positive Parenting strategies will help you and your

a task makes the request less of a demand. It doesn’t let

family survive–and maximize–your time together.

kids off the hook, but it does let them have a little more control. If they don’t finish the task, the TV is off-limits.

Here’s why…

When they do–in their time–they can earn back that privilege. (Please note this is not a reward. It’s an already

Positive Parenting

established, routinely enjoyed privilege.)

Decreases Parental Stress This simple strategy allows parents to remain calm but Whether we’re worried about paying the next bill,

maintain structure in a child’s daily tasks without heated

watching an entire life’s savings tank in the stock market,

debate and added stress.

or more or less inventing our kid’s at-home school curriculum, things are likely more stressful right now. They

Maintain a Glass Half Full

may even feel entirely out of control. We might want to scream, cry, laugh hysterically with frustration, or just

There really are ways to make this quarantine work in our

zone out in forced apathy.

favor, and focusing on them right now will be our ticket to happiness.

Positive Parenting counters stress and chaos by focusing on the things we CAN control– staying calm and…you

Staying positive doesn’t mean turning into a facsimile of

guessed it…being positive.

the crazy smiler in The Emoji Movie or ignoring pressing concerns. In fact, open communication about difficult

Try to Keep Calm and Carry On

emotions during this time will actually help our kids learn from the current world scenario and help them manage

Staying calm means when our kids don’t listen, we walk

and overcome it.

JULY 2020 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 17

[ PARENTING ] But staying positive does require a glass half full sort of

struggles is to give kids a little more control. Throwing out

optimism. Yes, we are cooped up with our kids more than

demands left and right can send kids–and well, anyone–

usual. Yes, our financial situation may cause us anxiety.

into defensive mode. So instead of being authoritarians,

Yes, our days are feeling more and more like we’re living

giving our kids opportunities to make a few decisions for

in The Twilight Zone. But even as we ride this Covid-

themselves will give them less reason to complain, argue,

powered roller coaster, we need to think about what

and misbehave.

great things can come from it. And by staying positive, our kids will pick up on that energy.

An older toddler will put up less of a fight at bedtime if you let him choose which of three books he’d like to

I know it’s easier said than done, but we can think of

read. An 8-year-old will feel empowered when you

quarantine as an amazing chance for family bonding, a

let him choose his at-home curriculum for the week

time to reach out to long-lost friends, and a time to get

(considering how lenient his remote schoolwork is). And

creative and do things we’ve long put off.

a teenager will feel less angst if you let her choose which app she’d like to use to communicate with her friends

A family paint night that you’ve imagined for months

(as long as cyberbullying and internet security are

can finally happen when you purchase those paint

considered).

supplies online, or you can finally learn to play chess with your ten-year-old through an online tutorial. This

All of these, in turn, will naturally make parenting a little

isn’t to suggest that family activities won’t have their

less crazy in a whirlwind kind of time.

own drawbacks–like tantrums of epic proportions when toddlers lose a game of Go Fish, or teenagers choosing

Positive Parenting Decreases Children’s Stress

not to participate in family movie night.

Our kids are just as impacted as we are by the current It’s just important to remember that this quarantine has

changes this pandemic has created–particularly our

silver linings that will benefit us all.

teens and tweens. Whether it’s big events like spring recitals, lacrosse tournaments, prom, or even graduation,

Focus on an Increase in Cooperation

kids are missing out on memorable life experiences with their friends. They’re also learning how to navigate

No matter the various levels of our current quarantine

School Mom and Dad.

“lock-downs,” we want our family life to be a well-oiled– and happy–machine. When things run smoothly, kids

We may be frustrated with how our kids are handling

will more willingly complete their schoolwork, the house

their big emotions right now. But staying calm and

can be (somewhat) clean, and we can work fluidly from

positive will help them as much as it helps us.

home–all without wanting to strangle each other by the end of the day.

Embrace Encouragement

This means we need cooperation.

One way to help our kids manage their current situation is to use Encouragement.

Power struggles affect every family on Earth. They’re frustrating, unhelpful, and sometimes inevitable.

Encouragement is a Positive Parenting tool that puts ourselves in our kids’ shoes and focuses on the things

But with Positive Parenting, many power struggles are

they’re doing right. Sure, it’s justifiable to be tired of the

preventable. And with fewer battles at home, anxiety

bad attitudes and the lack of cooperation, but we can

lessens, moods lift, and things get done.

also take a moment to “read the room.”

One tool to encourage cooperation and avoid power

Our kids are likely disappointed they can’t attend Field

18 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

[ PARENTING ] Day or present their year-long science experiments. They

Give Them the Attention They Crave

might be faced with celebrating special occasions and birthdays without friends and struggling with learning at

One foundational belief of Positive Parenting is that kids

home.

have an innate need to feel significant. This means they need to be reminded of their self-worth, capabilities, and

The truth is, none of this is what any of us planned

the value they bring to the family. These reassurances

for or expected. We can say, “Hey, Honey, I know

are even more imperative during a time of change and

how disappointed you are that so many things you

uncertainty–just like we’re experiencing now.

were looking forward to have been cancelled. This Coronavirus has taken us all by surprise. Despite all of

Has your 5-year-old been talking your ear off or yelling

these changes, you’ve been working hard learning from

outlandishly every time you call to check on a relative?

home and assisting me plan and cook our dinners” (or

Is your 11-year-old misbehaving more than usual? Or, is

whatever else may apply). “I’ve really appreciated your

your teenager doing things just to elicit a reaction?

helpfulness.”

Chances are, your children are stressed. They may feel It doesn’t matter if children’s contributions are small or

less valued because we’re more distant or distracted

some of their usual good behavior has been lacking.

than usual.

Encouragement can pinpoint any positive effort and support it. Maybe your son focused 5 minutes longer

We’re already spending at least 50% more time with our

on his English homework today than yesterday, or your

kids each day than (possibly) ever before, so how could

young daughter finally put her games away.

they need more attention? And how can we possibly give it?

We can also use Encouragement by asking our kids to think of solutions to their recent disappointments.

The thing is, in order to feel truly valued, kids need daily

Although the solutions may not be as amazing as they’d

one-on-one time with us where we engage in something

hoped, they can still be special.

they want to do. Although this time with each parent needs to be undistracted, it doesn’t have to take long.

Maybe those birthdays they’re missing with their friends

For busy families, even 10-15 minute chunks of time can

can be celebrated via surprise drive-bys with shouts,

be sufficient.

waves, and confetti. Maybe graduation can be a small family affair with a backyard Pomp and Circumstance

For young kids, one-on-one time might include playing

ceremony and hand-made diploma (followed by take-

house or building a couch fort. For older kids, it might

out from a favorite restaurant).

be talking in-depth about the latest video game.

Remember–the activity is their choice.

We can help our kids with serious cases of FOMO (or with the FOMO we have FOR them!) by celebrating the

We can’t count at-home schooling or family game night

smaller things in life. It’s another one of the greatest gifts

as one-on-one time because it doesn’t focus on kids and

this quarantine can give us, and it may even help oft-

their interests individually. But when we take the time to

entitled kids feel more grateful than ever.

do it, it makes a huge difference in our children’s stress levels and their behaviors. (We might even be able to

By using Encouragement, we’re not indulging pity

have a phone conversation in peace.)

parties or ignoring bad behavior. We are simply showing compassion. And by modeling compassion, we can

We Can Focus on Justifiable–and Fair–Consequences

expect our kids to feel sympathy for others who may be suffering greatly during this time, like healthcare workers

This more-than-usual family time is all well and good, but

and COVID-19 patients.

kids are still going to be kids, and parents are still going to JULY 2020 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 19

[ PARENTING ] “lose it” once in a while.

from avoiding right now. This obviously won’t work in a situation that takes parents by surprise, like a child

We can’t expect things to be perfect or to find a new

suddenly breaking quarantine rules by playing with a

balance with work/school/housework overnight. But

neighbor outside. But it can be applied next time, by

what we can do is make sure that when things feel out

warning the child that if she does that again, she won’t

of hand with a child’s misbehavior, we apply fair and

be able to go outside tomorrow (as hard as that might

effective consequences.

be for you).

Kids that don’t know what to expect are more likely to

There is so much to learn about implementing

feel anxious. They are also more likely to find reprimands

consequences, which is why I’ve created an entirely free

and punishments unjust. If a child has ignored your

class where I’ll teach you the 5Rs for fair and effective

requests to clean up the backyard, for example, an

consequences. I promise it’ll be the best hour you spend

abrupt spanking will just turn resentment towards you. It

this week!

will also fail to prevent further misbehavior.

Positive Parenting Solutions is the Missing Village You Positive Parenting focuses instead on Logical

Really Need Right Now

Consequences.

We can’t see friends and extended family at a physical Logical Consequences are unique–and effective–

arm’s reach right now, but we need support more than

because they follow a set of guidelines that logically link

ever. We’re lacking so many of our usual outlets, from

the cause and effect of misbehaviors. With this link, kids

coffee dates with fellow parents to toddler playdates with

perceive the consequences as fair and internalize them

neighbors.

rationally and productively.

What we can do is rely on tried and true Parenting Sounds great, right?

Success System tools that will help us navigate uncharted waters.

I know–your 6-year-old isn’t going to suddenly appreciate you taking her toy away when she hits her

By taking charge of your family’s quarantine through

brother with it; nor will your teenager graciously relinquish

Positive Parenting, you and your kids will feel a lot

his phone privileges after breaking the rules and texting

less stressed and a lot more grateful. And while the

late at night. But, your kids will understand that the

quarantine is guaranteed to expire, these parenting tools

“punishment” (although we prefer to use the word

never will! You’ll have acquired amazing strategies you

consequence) fits the crime. They’ll more consciously

can carry with you for the rest of your parenting journey.

grasp that their poor choices warranted your response.

Take your fi rst step towards Positive Parenting today and Logical Consequences are also fair because they’re

learn why life-long access to our proven 7-Step Parenting

revealed in advance. They don’t come as a surprise

Success System online course will benefit you and your

or add undue stress–something all kids could benefit

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[ PARENTING ]

Summertime Challenges for Families During the Pandemic

by Laurie Hollman, Ph.D. What challenges are families facing this summer that are different from the ones they are used to? Kids of different ages are accustomed to outdoor summer activities with lots of other kids. But general and specialized camps are closed this summer because it’s not safe for groups of kids to gather or for their counselors. It’s just not possible to keep enough distance to insure good health.

Summer weather does afford the opportunity to be outside rather than feeling locked in the house during the winter months, but it’s time for parents and kids to be creative with these outdoor activities.

Scheduling Wisely A plus that parents may not be as aware of is that overscheduling is no longer a hazard to exhaustion and stress which had been common before when parents and kids tried to fit in too many activities in a day.

“Feeling emotionally secure and not overtired are important components of happiness that are often not considered when parents schedule their Laurie Hollman, Ph.D. is a psychoanalyst with specialized clinical training in infant-parent, child, adolescent, and adult psychotherapy. She has been on the faculties of New York University and the Society for Psychoanalytic Study and Research, among others. She has written extensively on parenting for various publications, including the Psychoanalytic Study of the Child, The International Journal of Infant Observation, The Inner World of the Mother, Newsday’s Parents & Children Magazine, Long Island Parent. She also wrote her popular column, PARENTAL INTELLIGENCE, at Moms Magazine and has been a parenting expert for numerous publications such as Good Housekeeping. and Bustle Lifestyle. She currently writes for Active Family Magazine (San Francisco) and blogs for Huffington Post. Her new book is Unlocking Parental Intelligence: Finding Meaning in Your Child’s Behavior. To learn more go to Dr. Hollman’s website at www.lauriehollmanphd.com.

22 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

children’s daily lives…As you schedule your daily lives, it is essential to look at your intentions as a parent, your child’s intentions, and how your resulting plans will impact everyone psychologically” (Hollman, The Busy Parent’s Guide to Managing Exhaustion in Children and Teens: The Parental Intelligence Way, 2020, 105-106).

So, parents and kids can take this opportunity for less rigorous scheduling and time to explore and discover new and old activities but in innovative ways. “In a society that hurries children’s development beyond its natural course, we find that play is minimized” (146). Now is the chance to redress that problem.

Free Play versus Structured Play Outdoor and indoor enactments of fantasies such as fairy tales parents and kids may read, as well as, stories kids invent help them deal with conflicts in life.

If you watch and listen carefully to kids reactions to the characters in fairy tales or the narrations they create in their make-believe worlds, you will be learning what is on their minds. In other words, you will get to know them better and have closer bonds.

Structured activities in formalized camp activities conceal kids minds often so as parents we don’t actually get the opportunity to know our kids better and

[ PARENTING ] strengthen those bonds.

an opportunity to discuss racial themes or other themes such as those with disabilities in your very own home. You

“Free play where children imagine and use toy figures to

don’t need a classroom to discuss these topics in a non-

act out ways of dealing with challenges enhances their

threatening and definitely non-judgmental way.

development. It gives them an opportunity to deal with the stresses of life” (147).

“Playing with real things, like baking a cake, gives children the feeling of coping with reality under

Instead of grade school kids playing teacher and

pleasurable interactions with others” including siblings

student, you may hear your kids playing doctor and

and adults (147). “These different forms of play give

patient where the patient has a virus. Why? Because this

children the feeling they have some control over their

is on their minds whether they talk about COVID a lot or

own destiny” (147) essential during these uncertain times.

not.

Praising Your Kids Builds Self-Esteem if it’s Specific There are also many typical activities that don’t require

Observe and listen carefully to the ways doctors and

groups like bike riding, skate boarding, throwing balls

young patients in play talk to each other: their attitudes,

into a hoop, and playing catch to get the much needed

their conversations, their feelings about wearing masks.

exercise that’s missed if too much time is spent on

I recommend not interfering with questions or giving

screens for entertainment. Repetitive athletic play will

your own suggestions for dialogue, but just listen to your

lead to fast improvement which raises self-esteem. Praise

children interact.

your kids when the ball goes in the hoop even if it’s on their third or tenth try.

If you have an only child, as the available parent you may be asked to play out stories or suggest to your child

Don’t have fancy expectations for immediate

that you’d enjoy playing with them using their story

success and your kids won’t either but be proud

ideas. Notice your own free-wheeling dialogue and

when they succeed after tolerating some failures and

learn about what’s on your mind, too! Playing in this

disappointments. Praise their perseverance and growing

way is a much better avenue than lots of overly serious

biceps. In other words, be positive but specific about

conversations about the Pandemic.

what you are praising. “Good job” just isn’t helpful and will fall on deaf ears pretty quickly.

Playing out Conflicts and Concerns is a Great Way to Master Them

Play Enhances Child Development at All Ages

“By ages two to six, play becomes quite dominant

Thus, we learn how play helps kids grow, not only school

through self-created learning experiences with themes

age kids, though, babies, too!

of lost and found, dependence and independence, distrust and trust. During the elementary school years,

“Infants by twelve months learn object permanence: an

ages six to twelve, children become industrious…Play

object not seen still exists. This results in children playfully

themes continue to become more complex as the

looking for and retrieving hidden objects over and over,

child dramatizes herself or her toy figures as the one in

mastering this new learning experience” (149).

authority, reversing the roles of the real world by making believe she is the teacher, mother” (149) doctor, nurse

Incidental mishaps may not be considered play in the

and policeman.

usual sense but don’t miss these opportunities. “The toddler who drops his food off his high chair for his

Make sure you have play figures that represent people

mother to retrieve it may annoy his mother, but he is

of different skin colors and even cultures and you will

having a grand time proving his object permanence

see play about “Black Lives Matter.” Go on amazon to

knowledge—over and over–he’s proving that what

get any of these toys in a short amount of time. What

goes away can be found and retrieved. This knowledge JULY 2020 | ACTIVE FAMIL Y 23

[ PARENTING ] grows into hide-and-seek, for example, as three-year-

siblings, but if it’s at home, parents and kids can discuss

old children learn object constancy and practice the

how competition helps us gain new knowledge as well

appearance and disappearance of loved ones” (149)

as tolerate losing as a way to learn. We learn much

not only objects.

more from mistakes than easy successes. Let your kids know you really believe that, so they can, too. (Hollman,

At a time when kids are hearing too much about death

The Busy Parent’s Guide to Managing Technology with

and dying on the news (which should be monitored to

Children and Teens: The Parental Intelligence Way, 2020).

prevent trauma) or seeing a parent closed in an athome office for many hours who can’t be disturbed,

Playing at Home Can Prevent the Exhaustion of Camp

remembering that when living parents disappear for a

Life

while, they will return and be glad to see you.

Take advantage of the fact that the pressures of scheduling camps and working parents outside the

By ages eight to twelve, games with rules are fascinating

home are finally lax. You will discover

to kids, so pull out or order interesting board games, card games, as well as, video games. Play with your kids. Let them teach you the rules and get a charge out of beating you because they’re more skilled. In the meantime, they’re learning rules apply to all players consistently, we must all wait our turns, and we must all tolerate the jealousy of others when we are the winners, as well as, the frustrations when we are the losers.

Play Using Technology “In this age of newer and newer technology, children learn to use computer-driven games with great skill at earlier ages. Their knowledge of symbols is encouraged with the icons on their well-known games. Children become the experts and their parents the students.

This enthusiasm for educational video games does not bring a loss of the imaginary play that children invent for

“Children who are playing are not exhausted children.

They are happy and cheerful, exploring and discovering fun for learning and fun for its own sake. They build forts out of pillows on a couch and wood and limbs in their yards. They climb trees to prove their strength and prowess and race around, expending the wonderful energy of their youth (152).”

Reducing Stress on Parents Who Work At-Home It’s a great learning experience for kids to see their parents work at home. It’s not only great role modeling for kids’ futures but helps them respect the energy their parents are putting in to support them. Establishing rules about not disturbing a working parent, maybe planning a special treat to surprise the working parent on a break,

themselves. It is an addition—contrary to the beliefs of

or sharing with your kids what in fact you are working on

many naysayers who fear the innovative toys of today”

goes a long way in building not only your kids’ character

(151,152)

but bringing them more into your world.

It’s interesting that the mind-set of ‘discover and

It’s okay to let kids know when parents are tired after a

collaborate’ began online with interactive video game

long work day at home. Kids learn more easily how to

playing. So when parents encourage their kids to teach

give their parents time to themselves after work because

them their favorite video games they not only show

they now really see how long and hard their mothers and

respect for their kids’ knowledge, but discover how

fathers are concentrating on their jobs. This reduces stress

they are persistent problem solvers who emphasize

on the working parents and builds admiration for them

cooperation among players more than individual

by their kids. Kids admiration, too, by the way lessens

competition. Surely competition still will be seen among

stress for adults.

24 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

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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

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[ 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

30 ACTIVE FAMIL Y | JULY 2020

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

SF Zoo Camp Sloat Blvd. & the Great Highway San Francisco 415.753.7080 www.sfzoo.org

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

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

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