California Kids! by Valley Community Newspapers

April 2014

Table of Contents Wordsearch: Happy Easter, Happy Hunting ..............................................................page 7 Make it Yourself!.................................page 8 Who Wrote That? Melissa Stewart by Patricia Newman........................ page 11 The Book Report: Reviewer’s Choice by Connie Goldsmith....................... page 14 Summer Guide.............................page 16–20 Travel: Oxnard by Carmel L. Mooney....................... page 21 Calendar of Events................ page 23–24 Parties! Parties!........................ page 26–27

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www.valcomnews.com Publisher: George Macko General Manager: Kathleen Egan Contributing Writers: . Connie Goldsmith, Carmel L. Mooney, Patricia Newman Art Director: John Ochoa • Graphic Artist: Ryan Wunn Sales Manager: Patty Colmer Advertising: Jen Henry • 916-429-9901 Distribution/Subscriptions: George Macko Cover Photo: Easter Egg Hunt at Government House. by Jay Baker at Annapolis, Maryland http://www.flickr.com/photos/mdgovpics/7039391943/

California Kids! is published monthly and distributed to more than 1,000 locations in the Sacramento Valley, including all of Sacramento County, and portions of Yolo (Davis and Woodland), Placer (Rocklin and Roseville), El Dorado (Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, Placerville) counties. Subscriptions are available for $30/year. Mail prepaid check or money order to California Kids!, 2709 Riverside Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95818. Make sure to specify the person and address to which you wish issues to be mailed. Deadlines for advertising and calendar listings are the 25th of the month prior to publication. Calendar listings should be mailed to 2709 Riverside Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95818, faxed to (916) 429-9906, or e-mailed to kathleen@valcomnews.com. Copyright 2014 by Valley Community Newspapers Inc., 2709 Riverside Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95818. Phone: (916) 429-9901. Fax: (916) 429-9906. E-mail:kathleen@valcomnews.com. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

Summer School & Summer Fun!

Enriching Summer Activities for Students 5th Grade Through High School

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

Fairytale Town events

• Sutter Children’s Center Wellness Festival, Saturday, April 5, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy fun games, free play, gardening activities, health screenings and more at this free celebration of active and healthy living. Sutter’s medical personnel will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on healthy childhood development. Families can also see “The Adventures of Sir Enamel,” a dental health themed puppet show by Puppet Art Theater Company (additional cost). Admission is free. For more information, visit www. fairytaletown.org or call (916) 808-7462. • Puppet Show: “The Adventures of Sir Enamel”, Saturday & Sunday, April 5 and 6, weekends at 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Enjoy a playful puppet show in Fairytale Town’s Children’s Theater. All ages will enjoy “The Adventures of Sir Enamel,” a fun tale that encourages dental health, performed by Puppet Art Theater Company. Tickets are $2 for nonmembers in addition to park admission, and $1 for members. Tickets can be purchased at the Fairytale Town main gate or at the entrance to the Children’s Theater 15 minutes prior to show time. For more information, visit www.fairytaletown.org or call (916) 808-7462. • Spring Eggstravaganza, Saturday and Sunday, April 19 and 20, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This fun-filled family weekend features egg hunts, prizes, spring-themed hands-on activities and visits with Peter Cottontail. Daily egg hunts are held promptly at 12, 1 and 2 p.m. Hunt areas are separated by age group: 0 - 3 years, 4 - 6 years, and 7 - 12 years. Puppet Art Theater Company will perform “Bunny Boot Camp” in the Children’s Theater. Puppet show tickets are $2 for nonmembers and $1 for members, and show times are 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. This program is free with paid park admission. Weekend admission is $5.50 for adults and children ages 2 and older. Children ages 1 and under are free. For more information, visit www.fairytaletown. org or call (916) 808-7462. Fairytale Town is open from March through October, the park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting. From November through February, the park is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting. For more information, visit www.fairytaletown.org or call (916) 808-7462.

APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Photo courtesy Fairytale Town

Zoo Zoom Are you as fast as a hare or as slow as a tortoise? Find out Sunday, April 13, at the 34th Annual ZooZoom which benefits the Sacramento Zoo. There are options for everyone from a 5K run/walk (3.1 miles) to a 10K run (6.2 miles). The 5K run/walk and 10 km run will lead participants through beautiful Land Park and finish near the back entrance to the Zoo. Proceeds from the 2014 ZooZoom will go towards animal care and enrichment. Feeding animals and keeping them occupied can be a difficult and expensive task. In order to keep their minds and skills sharp a variety of enrichments need to be made daily. Enrichments emulate foraging for food and the use of skills that would be necessary in the wild. More than 450 animals call the Sacramento Zoo home; help fill their bellies and minds.

SAUCONY “RUN FOR GOOD”, KIDS RUNS All kids (ages 4-12) that enter the Saucony “Run For Good” Fun Runs will receive a special shirt, race number, and a finish medal. Separate fun runs by age group. • 220-yard run for ages 4-under • 440-yard run for ages 5-6 • ½ mile run for ages 7-9 • 1-mile run for ages 10-12 Grant money available to area schools that have the most total kid’s entering the Saucony “Run For Good” Fun Runs. Children must be 12 years or under to be included in the school totals making a particular school eligible for grant money. Children 12 years and under entering the 5K race are also eligible for inclusion. Children older than 12 are not eligible to participate in the Saucony grant program. The Sacramento Zoo is located near the corner of Land Park Drive and Sutterville Road in William Land Park. The zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call (916) 808-5888 or visit saczoo.org.

Get Ready for Summer Camp Registration

hen school is out, it’s time to spend your summer with wild critters at the Sacramento Zoo. Summer Camp classes are available for pre-K through 9th grade. The 2014 camp information is now posted on the Summer Camps & Classes page. General registration will begin on April 8, at 9 am. Mark your calendars as classes fill up very quickly. Zoo member registration will begin on March 25; visit the membership page to learn about the benefits of Zoo membership. Please be sure to read the Guide to Summer Camp Registration and Camp FAQs page now so that you are prepared for registration day.   Visit saczoo.org.

Photo Baha and CJ, at 12 weeks old.

Courtesy The Sacramento Zoo

Update on CJ! C

J weighed 3 pounds when he was born and now weighs 130 pounds. His mother, Baha weighs 185 pounds, so CJ may seem like he’s almost full size next to his mom but an adult male Sumatran Tiger can weigh up to 300 pounds. It looks like CJ still has a lot of growing to do! Visit the Zoo’s Tiger Cub blog to see CJ’s story when he was just a little cub. You can sponsor the Sumatran Tigers and become a Zoo Parent, at the $50 level and receive a super soft plush tiger of your very own. Visit the Zoo Parent page or call (916) 808-5888 to purchase one today.

Earth Fest - It’s a Party for the Planet!, Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

t’s a party for the planet. Learn how to protect and preserve the earth with environmental, wildlife and conservation organizations. During the day explore animal bio-artifacts; participate in storytelling and activities in the Discovery Room; come face-to-face with the outreach animals; or listen as keepers present enrichment talks in the afternoon. Don’t forget to stop by the Recycle Rummage Sale inside the Kampala center for a great bargain.

Participants and Exhibitors: California Department of Fish and Wildlife, City of Sacramento Department of Utilities, Cosumnes River Preserve, Friends of the Sacramento Public Library,Friends of San Juan de Oriente, Greater Sacramento AAZK,Gus the Green tree frog, Sacramento Zoo Mascot, IKEA, It’s Organic, Nor Cal Bats, Sacramento Audubon Society, Recycled Zoo Banner Bags for Sale!, Sacramento Turtle and Tortoise Club, Scholarshare, Sierra Club, Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Association... more coming soon!

All Day Activities: Recycle Rummage Sale in the Kampala Center, Interactive Wildlife Wagons, Hands-on artifacts in the Discovery Room, Face painting, Zoo crafts

Timed Activities • Zoo P.I.’s Wildlife Show - 11 a.m. on the amphitheater stage • Wildlife Stage Show - 1:30 p.m. on the amphitheater stage • Keeper Chats -- all talks at the exhibit, 2:15 p.m. Sifaka/Mongoose Lemur 2:30 p.m. Black & White Ruffed Lemur, 2:45 p.m. Harris’ Hawk Flight Training, Reptile House Lawn CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

Effie Yeaw Nature Center Events Special Activities Under the Oaks Nature Camps for children ages 6 – 11; $20/day members, $25/day non-members; Pre-registration required. www.sacnaturecenter.net for registration and info. All camps are 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., April 14 - Wet and Waterful; April 15 - Mad Science; April 16 - Flying Falcons; April 17 - Eggs, Nests and Science Free Weekend Activities • April 5, Saturday, Macroinvertebrate Magic, 10:30 a.m. Take a close look at the water striders, backswimmers and diving beetles that call Carmichael Creek their home. Discover why these easily overlooked creatures are so important to the health of a creek, pond, and river. Join a naturalist and step into this fascinating watery world and learn how to get involved in caring for our waterways. Information about other Creek Week activities at www.creekweek.net. All ages welcomed. • April 6, Sunday, Living in Water, 1:30 p.m. Discover the hidden world of water insects and polliwogs. Using catch and release activities, get a close-up look at amazing little animals that live in our pond and can be found in our local waterways. Information about other Creek Week activities at www.creekweek.net. All ages welcomed. • April 12, Saturday, Birding for Families, 10:30 a.m. Bring the family out for a birding and nature walk led by a Naturalist and special guest guides from the Sacramento Audubon Society. Birdwatchers of all levels welcome. Make sure to bring your binoculars, or the staff can loan you a pair. • April 13, Sunday, Wildflower Walk, 1:30 p.m. Step out of the city and onto the trails in search of the beauty of Spring wildflowers in the Nature Preserve. • April 19, Saturday, Eureka!, 10:30 a.m. Come get your hands on a pan and catch gold fever. Learn about some of the local Gold Rush history and get your hands dirty as you learn how to pan for gold in hopes of striking it rich. Space is limited, sign-ups taken the day of. • April 20, Sunday, Hop, Leap, Jump, 1:30 p.m. Hop on over for a “hare” raising good time. Learn if rabbits actually lay eggs and take a hike to discover rabbit’s habitat. Explore where they might make a home, hide from danger, and find a tasty plant to eat. • April 26, Saturday, Save the Frogs Day, 10:30 a.m. Come celebrate Mother Earth by learning all about some of her most precious creatures… FROGS! Come see the resident amphibians up close, learn how important they are in the web of life, and how they let us know about the health of our local waterways. Make beautiful art celebrating your favorites. • April 27, Sunday, Ssssnnnakes, 1:30 p.m. The weather is warm and so are the reptiles. Slither on in to learn all about these ectotherms (and what that word means), what kind you may find in our area, and meet a resident reptile up close. The Effie Yeaw Nature Center is located 2850 San Lorenzo Way, at California Avenue and Tarshes Drive, Carmichael. Donations are gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members). For more information, call (916) 489-4918 or visit www.sacnaturecenter.net.

APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Send us your Photos! California Kids! is looking for themed photos to use for our monthly publication. This is your BIG chance to land a cover shot! For more info please contact kathleen@valcomnews.com

Happy Easter, Happy Hunting!

ey Kids! Easter is just around the corner and that means fun times with family and friends. Time to get out your Easter basket and decorate some eggs, enjoy an Easter parade, and go to church in your favorite Easter outfit. Those are just some of the fun activities. What do you like to do on Easter? Are you ready to hunt eggs and eat yummy treats? See how many hidden words you can find related to Easter. Look carefully, as words can appear vertically, horizontally, diagonally, backwards and upside down. Have fun hunting!

N E E R G T N U H G G E D C S Y Y C

J E L L Y B E A N S E X B S P L X H

R E C I V R E S H C R U H C R I D O

X P M B A K C O R M A H S Q I L Y C

F O U B L B A S K E T S O R N R B O

F T S D L V C Q G C F B E O G E F L

Baskets Bonnets Bunny Candy Chocolate Bunny Church service Dye Eggs

A Y Q Y E L L O W C H I C K S T P A

M N Y E E L V W C E T C K S E S A T

I N X E S D V D S B F N I G B A R E

L U M G B H I E L U U K R B Y E A B

Y B T G R B I X B C N A O B L S D U

Easter Lily Egg Hunt Family Fun Grass Hide Eggs

S G X S A A L D M D F N L Y L H E N

M N R M B C I N E O N C B U N N Y N

A I I D B A X S K E W N N C J A F Y

X P P A I N J O T L G R S S A R G N

I P E Y T D U S T C A G I M G F L I

C O D G D Y G D V G Y E S T X E Z A

Z H O T C R O S S B U N S U N N Y S

Hopping bunny Hot Cross Buns Jelly beans Parade Rabbit Spring Yellow Chicks

Make it yourself! Decorate an Easter Bonnet

nyone would be proud to wear an Easter bonnet like this in the Easter parade! Children will enjoy decorating their own and adding their own personality.

Faberge Egg Collage D

ecorate your own beautiful, bejewelled Faberge egg! This craft can be adapted to suit a range of ages. Younger children can just “pile” it all on. Older kids might like to sketch out a careful design.

You will need: A straw hat, ribbon, fabric flowers (you could also use pompom chicks, polystyrene eggs, etc.), fabric glue

Mirrored or sparkly card, glue, gems and sequins

You will need to:

Cut a strip of ribbon long enough to go around the hat and glue it in place. If your flowers are in a bunch, cut or ease them off the stems so that you have a collection of loose flowers. Put a thick circle of glue around the brim of the hat, then press the flowers into place around the circle. Leave until the glue is completely dry until wearing.

Cut an egg shape from the card. decorate with sequins, gems and any sparkly bits from your craft box.

You will need:

Easter Bonnet Collage Easter Basket Craft H T ere’s an Easter bonnet collage activity - a fun way of incorporating the Easter bonnet into your Easter activities even if you are not making your own for an Easter bonnet parade! It would also make a lovely card for grandparents or a takehome activity for children to make in the classroom and give to parents.

his Easter basket craft recycles junk-cupboard materials into an Easter container which the children will be happy to display and fill with their Easter eggs!

You will need: A plastic basket (the type that pre-packed vegetables come in), craft foam in a color to match the basket, children’s craft safety scissors, Easter stickers or precut shapes, glue, green paper

You will need: Construction paper, straw colored construction paper, ribbon, fabric and foam flowers and other decorative bits.

You will need to:

Cut a strip of craft foam and glue the ends to either side of the basket. Decorate the basket with stickers or foam shapes. Tear thin strips of green paper to make “grass” as a base for your precious Easter eggs.

Cut a hat shape from the straw colored construction paper. Glue this to another color of construction paper. Stick a length of ribbon around the brim. Decorate your bonnet with flowers and bows and anything else that takes your fancy.

Crafts courtesy of: www.Activity Village.co.uk - Keeping Kids Busy

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

Discovery Museum Science and Space Center Events • Magnetic Dinos, Saturday and Sunday, April 5 and 6, 12:30 to 4 p.m. Visit the Blast from the Past exhibit to learn about dinosaurs, fossils, rocks and crystals. Take pictures with your children dressed as Indiana Jones, a dinosaur or a geologist. After learning about both dinos and magnets, combine your knowledge into a craft activity. Kids decorate a wooden dinosaur magnet to take home as a souvenir. It makes a great keepsake from a fun day at the Discovery Museum. Remember, admission includes planetarium shows at 1 and 3 p.m. for ages 4 and older. • Dinosaur Eggstravaganza!, Saturday and Friday, April 12 and 18, 12:30 to 4 p.m. Looking for unusual eggs? We have prehistoric egg fun for everyone! See replica dinosaur eggs in our Blast from the Past exhibit. In addition, a collection of bird eggs are on display in our Nature Room. Today’s make-and-take activity is a paper Protoceratops egg t h a t h a t c h e s . T h e r e i s an animal presentation at noon & 2pm, highlighting an animal that hatched from an egg! Your admission includes planetarium shows at 1pm & 3pm for ages 4 and older.

shows at 1pm & 3pm for ages 4 and older. ***Closed April 20 for Easter. • Meet A Scientist, Saturday and Sunday, April 26 and 27, Noon to 4 p.m. Visit the Discovery Museum this weekend to meet some amazing scientists. Multiple scientists are available each day to interact with your family, sharing their research and offering a hands-on activity to connect you with current science in our community. Children 12 and under receive a souvenir pin once they complete a “science passport”. This is a wonderful opportunity to have children meet a real scientist. Planetarium shows are at 1 and 3 p.m. for ages 4 and older. The Discovery Museum Science and Space Center is located at 3615 Auburn Boulevard, Sacramento. General admission: $8 adults (18+), $7 seniors (60+), $7 teens (13-17), $6 children (4-12), $0 children (3 and under), ages appropriate for 4-12 years old. For more information, call (916) 808-3942 or visit www.thediscovery.org.

Traders’ Faire and Indian Arts & Crafts Market

ons. And, at the nearby State Indian Museum, guests can peruse beautiful custom beaded jewelry, artwork, baskets, gourds, soapstone and elk horn carvings, drums and much, much more. Don’t miss this special shopping extravaganza for your chance to shop at and explore two of Sacramento’s treasured historic parks

Cost: Combo price - $8 for adults; $6 for youth ages 6-17 which includes entrance into both the Fort and Museum; Sutter’s Fort stand-alone price: $7 for adults; $5 for youths ages 6-17 Indian Museum stand-alone price: $4 for adults; $3 for youths ages 6-17. Admission for children ages five and under are free to both the Fort and Museum

un for the whole family...don’t miss two great shopping events in one at Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park and the State Indian Museum on April 12 and 13 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn from and support artisan crafters while browsing through the “Traders’ Faire - California’s First Mall” at Sutter’s Fort and checking out the unique gifts and collectibles at the State Indian Museum’s spring time “Arts & Crafts Market.” At Sutter’s Fort, visitors will experience the hustle and bustle of pioneer trading days by watching artisans create goods, making their own crafts, haggling with traders, hammering square nails and enjoy demonstrations of black powder weap-

Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park is located at 2701 L Street and the State Indian Museum is located at 2618 K Street, Sacramento. For more information, call (916) 445-4422 or (916) 324-0971 or visit www.suttersfort.org or www.parks. ca.gov/indianmuseum.

Open Garden at the Horticulture Center

rop by to see the gardens, Wednesday, April 9, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., to learn how to thin grapes and prepare vegetable beds. Take home landscape design tips. Located outside - rain or shine. This is a free event. The Horticulture Center is located at 11549 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks, south of Madison, in Fair Oaks Park, next to the Library. For more information, call the UC Cooperative Extension, at (916) 875-6913 or visit ucanr.edu/sacmg or facebook.com/sacmg

• Sid the Science Kid Saturday, Saturday, April 19, Noon to 4 p.m. The rock star of the cartoon science world is being celebrated this weekend at the Discovery Museum. From noon to 4pm we are repeating Sid the Science Kid: The Movie in our classroom. Children ages 12 and under participate in Sid related activities from 12:30pm4:00pm, highlighting different realms of the science world. Remember, admission includes planetarium APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

A children’s story by Artie Knapp

Living Green A Turtle’s Quest for a Cleaner Planet

EVERYONE HAD GATHERED for the big day. The wedding of Miss Taylor Turtley was an event that every turtle within a hundred yards vowed not to miss. Everything had seemed perfect, too, but then it happened! Litter suddenly blanketed the wedding party – even the bride and groom! Bags of trash had been thrown from the overpass that towered over the creek. But such behavior was no longer going to be tolerated - at least not by Taylor’s brother Thurman. As Thurman glanced over at his sister who was in tears, banana peels covered her wedding dress and shell. “That’s it! Enough is enough!” exclaimed Thurman with his fist aimed high. “Forget it, Thurman,” said his father. “There’s nothing we can do about the humans, Son.” “Forget it? How can you say that, Dad? Something has to be done. It’s time for action!” Thurman said. And with that, Thurman told everyone he had to go. “Where are you going, Thurman?” asked his mother. “I’m going to put a stop to this, Mom.” “Don’t go!” shouted a voice from the wedding party. “You’ll end up in a kid’s fish bowl, and you’ll barely have room to stretch!”

“You’ll be soup, Thurman!” shouted another. As voices continued to ring out about the dangers that awaited him, Thurman was undeterred. He was determined to make a difference. How exactly? Well, Thurman wasn’t sure. He just knew he couldn’t just sit by as the land he loved became cluttered with trash. Traveling a distance of any length takes quite a while for a turtle. So, to make headway on his journey, Thurman swam with the current of a nearby river. After a couple of days adrift, Thurman finally saw signs of human civilization. And everywhere he looked there was trash – lots, and lots of trash. Dumping garbage where they didn’t live was bad enough, but Thurman was surprised to see people living in it themselves. Garbage was in their water. It littered the streets where they drove their automobiles. And it was even where children played. As Thurman pondered how he was going to address the crisis, several people were suddenly approaching him. Fearing for his safety, he quickly turned to hide; and then everything turned dark. Thurman had stuck his head into a muddied plastic bottle that had been left on the riverbed. Eager to escape, he pulled with all of his might, but without success. A science teacher from a nearby elementary school was now standing close to the river with her students. They were on a fieldtrip to help the environment. The children would be planting trees, and a local newspaper reporter was on hand to cover the event. “Okay, before we get started, who knows the answer?” asked Mrs. Thornberry. Several of the students raised their hands. “Yes, Susie,” said Mrs. Thornberry. “It’s our carbon footprint,” said the young girl. “That’s right, Susie. Very good! Even though each and every one of us has our own carbon footprint, it affects everyone and everything around us.” As her students began breaking ground to plant trees, Mrs. Thornberry continued to speak about the different effects that carbon footprints have on the environment. She reminded the children of the pollution that comes from factories and automobiles, and the carbon dioxide that is released into the air because of them. By planting trees that day, the children would be combating carbon dioxide by putting more oxygen back in the air. “Does everyone remember the four R’s that we discussed in class?” asked Mrs. Thornberry. “Yes, Mrs. Thornberry,” said her students in unison. “Rethink, Reduce, Reuse,” and then young Robby Pursley shouted, “Recycle,” before any of the other students could say the last word.

You see, Robby couldn’t contain his excitement. He had stumbled across a plastic bottle. But it was no ordinary bottle. It had a turtle stuck in it. As everyone came over to view the bottle, Robby held it up in the air for all to see. The local news reporter captured the moment with his camera. As Thurman began to feel his body being tugged, he feared the worst. And then suddenly, the brightness of the sun shone over him! Wow! Look at him,” said Robby. One by one the students touched Thurman’s shell. Even through his fear, Thurman felt comforted when hearing what the children were doing for the environment. The anger that had driven him to leave his home suddenly faded away. Because of the actions of the children that day, Thurman knew there was hope for a cleaner world. “Can I keep him, Mrs. Thornberry?” “I don’t think that is a good idea, Robby. This is his home. He needs to be set free.” Robby sighed, but did as his teacher requested. He wiped the mud off of Thurman’s shell and released him. After he had finally reached home, Thurman was greeted as a hero. He learned that his rescue had made the front page of the local newspaper. Inspired by the story, every school in the region began cleaning up the

trash that littered the area, to include rivers and ponds. But Thurman didn’t understand why everyone back home made such a big fuss. Besides, there was much work to do, and getting stuck in a bottle wasn’t exactly what he had planned. But Thurman’s family reminded him of the courage it took to do what he did. His quest for change was proof that one individual can make a difference, and that each and every one of us should try. “It’s up to you!” Artie Knapp is the author of many published works for young readers. A frequent contributor to the Detroit Free Press’ Yak’s Corner, his children’s literature has been featured in over two hundred publications across the world. Among Artie’s writing credits are the children’s book, Stuttering Stan Takes a Stand, and Living Green: A Turtle’s Quest for a Cleaner Planet, a shortlist finalist for the 2012 Green Earth Book Award. He is a member of The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and graduated from Ohio University. Artie lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with his wife and daughter. To learn more about Artie and his work, please visit him online at www.artieknapp.com A fully illustrated edition of this story is available in paperback. Look for it on Amazon, Barnes & Nobles and other fine retailers. CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

Who wrote that? The Creators of Your Child’s Favorite Books Featuring Melissa Stewart

Melissa Stewart is the author of more than 170 science books for children. So prolific is Stewart that her list of titles reads like a card catalog, covering such categories as animals; the environment; health and human body; Earth and space science; physical science; experiments and activities; math and technology; and novelty books and games. Her ability to explain difficult scientific concepts to any age level makes her books a favorite among teachers, parents and students. The recipient of several awards, Stewart says, “The Green Earth Book Award is my favorite because my mission as a writer is so similar to their mission as an organization.” To help children form an appreciation for the sciences. Stewart’s interest in nature began as a child. Her family owned ten acres in New York across the street from a national park, and she grew up hiking with her father. “It made me fall in love with the natural world,” she says. Stewart and her brother used the woods as their playground, too. They constructed outdoor forts, built jumps for their bicycles, dammed streams, and caught frogs and turtles. “My early experiences

By Patricia Newman

shaped the person I am today and what is important to me,” Stewart says. Although Stewart loved science, medicine was not a career option because she says “the smell of hospitals makes me hurl.” While conducting research for her college thesis on cloning fruit flies, a professor showed her an article in Discover Magazine on her thesis topic and told Stewart that she could have written the article. Such outward support and belief in her abilities gave Stewart the courage to apply to New York University’s graduate journalism program. When she graduated, print journalism was undergoing a sea change, laying off seasoned staff writers in favor of freelancers. Unable to compete with the level of experience flooding the marketplace, Stewart

APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

turned to editing science textbooks and educational books for children which eventually launched her career as a children’s author. To say Stewart is disciplined is an understatement. Her day begins at 6:45 each morning when her husband leaves for work. She responds to emails, and then tackles the list she made the night before. She regularly works on ten projects at once—all in various stages of completion. One day might be devoted to writing; another to research; another to reviewing notes from an editor; another to interviewing an expert; another choosing photographs or writing captions. Research takes four forms: printed material, such as studies, articles, or books on her subject; the Internet, where she locates scientists conducting research on her topic; expert interviews; and first-hand observation. “First-hand observation is important to me,” Stewart says. “It is the foundation of many of my books.” For instance, Under the Snow grew from an observation she made one March at a favorite hiking spot—a pond near her home in Acton, Massachusetts. “The wind had blown all the snow off the ice, and you could see down through the ice,” Stewart says. “I actually saw the red-spotted newt swimming around.” The observation led to a question: “What are those guys doing swimming around? They’re supposed to be hibernating.” At the time Stewart believed all salamanders hibernated, but she checked to make sure. Turns out they don’t. Her question led her to a larger idea—what animals do when snow blankets the ground--one she describes as “meaty enough for a whole book.” In Under the Snow, Stewart explores animals in fields, forests, ponds, and wetlands. No Monkeys, No Chocolate culminated a ten-year journey that began as a book about the wild rose. On another hike Stewart encountered wild roses in bloom, but when she looked closer she saw an entire ecosystem

on the plant eating and being eaten. Unfortunately editors rejected the manuscript saying no one was interested in plants, so Stewart shelved the idea. But then she visited Costa Rica and saw the cocoa tree with a similar microhabitat living on the leaves, flowers, and fruit. “Here’s my plant,” Stewart remembers saying. Virtually everyone loves chocolate—an entry point she used to hook readers and editors. Stewart employs a three-layered text to interest young readers as well as those capable of more sophisticated scientific information. The simplest layer

introduces a concept. For example, cocoa flowers can’t bloom without cocoa leaves. The second layer expands the concept. And according to Stewart, wise-cracking “bookworms reinforce the challenging information and incorporate humor.” When speaking with Stewart, one concludes that she writes as much for herself as for her readers. The desire to know, to explain, to discover drives her not only to unlock nature’s secrets, but to share them with children. Much the same as her father did when she was small. Next month: Sue Fliess

Patricia Newman visits schools! Her newest book Plastic, Ahoy! Investigating the Great Pacific Garbage Patch a Junior Library Guild Selection, is now available. Visit her website at www.patriciamnewman.com for more information.

LEARN MORE ABOUT melissa stewart Visit: http://melissa-stewart.com/

SELECTIONS FROM melissa stewart’s LIBRARY Beneath the Sun, Peachtree, 2014.. Feathers: Not Just for Flying, Charlesbridge, 2014.. A Place for Butterflies, Peachtree, 2014. No Monkeys, No Chocolate, Charlesbridge, 2013.. Out of This World Jokes About the Solar System, Enslow, 2012. Deadliest Animals, National Geographic Books for Children, 2011.. Inside Lightning, Sterling, 2011.. Do People Really Have Tiny Insects Living in Their Eyelashes?, Lerner, 2010.. Under the Snow, Peachtree, 2009.. A Rainbow of Animals series of six books, Enslow, 2009. .

Upcoming Robots, National Geographic Books for Children, 2014. Water, National Geographic Books for Children, 2014. Zoom in on Insects! series of 6 books, Enslow, 2014.

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More About Levana • Levana is committed to advocating best safety practices for children • All Levana Movement monitors are digital and wireless, which eliminates the risk of cord strangulation • All monitors include a video that helps educate parents and caregivers on how to create and maintain a safer sleeping environment for their baby • 9 baby video monitors, 2 movement monitors, 1 audio monitor, and all-in-one bundles with prices that begin just under $100 • Features include: Invisible LEDs, ClearVu digital wireless technology, robust battery life, higher frame rate, PTZ cameras, hi-res LCD screens, easy-to-use GUI Levana monitors can be purchased online at stores including (but not limited to) Amazon.com, Target.com and BestBuy.com.

APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

THE BOOK REPORT

Reviewer's Choice By Connie Goldsmith

his column usually focuses on a theme, such as bedtime stories or ABC books. But sometimes there are a lot of wonderful books out there that don’t fit into a theme. This month features a mix of picture books and nonfiction books; the first three are written by Northern California authors. Any day is a good day for a new book! Take a look and see which will appeal to your family. “Snow Dog, Sand Dog,” by Linda Joy Singleton, illustrated by Jess Golden. (Albert Whitman). More than anything, Ally wants a dog, but she’s allergic. Still, with determination and imagination, Ally makes her dream come true. Everyone tells her there’s no such thing as a snow dog, yet Snow Dog follows her home: “He sat by the freezer instead of the fire.” Everyone tells her there is no such thing as a dog made of flowers. Yet Flower Dog follows her home: “He plopped on a planter instead of a rug.” Each season offers Ally a chance to make a new dog from nature’s bounty. The

repetitive pattern of the words and the kid-like watercolor, pastel and colored pencil art are a perfect match. This engaging story will appeal to anyone who loves dogs (and isn’t that most of us?). “Plastic, Ahoy!” by Patricia Newman, photographs by Annie Crawley. (Millbrook). Jump aboard the New Horizon and join a group of scientists as they journey to the North Pacific Central Gyre to explore the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Discovered in 1997, the Patch contains tons of discarded plastic, much of which the sun has degraded into tiny pieces. How does this affect marine life? Can it affect human life as well? In clear concise language we learn about photosynthesis at sea, the marine food chain, the scientific method, and how scientists sometimes discover the unexpected. For example, researchers found the plastic debris provides new homes many sea creatures. Readers will linger over the outstanding color photographs and graphics, and will appreciate learning what they can do to decrease plastic trash. The last image of the New Horizon in a brilliant blue sea with a

single plastic water bottle is stunning. “Here Comes the Easter Cat,” by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Claudia Rueda. (Dial). In this quirky cat story, grumpy Cat doesn’t understand why everyone loves the Easter Bunny. He will become the Easter Cat (an idea that could only have come from an author who knows cats)! So Easter Cat dons a sparkly vest and sets out on his motorcycle to deliver goodies. It’s hard work, though, and doesn’t leave enough time for naps. The very tired Easter Bunny, who has already delivered millions of candy eggs, shows up with one for Cat. Sized right for little hands, this is a sweetly satisfying story, reminiscent of the author’s best-selling, “The Quiet Book,” and the ink and color pencil art is a perfect complement to the delightful text. “Bugs,” by George McGavin, illustrated by Jim Kay. (Candlewick). This beautifully illustrated book gives us a look at the fascinating world of creepycrawlies. The three-dimensional pop-ups of the dragon fly, scorpion and butterfly are amazing. Larger-than-life bugs spring from the pages, peek out from behind flaps and hide under tabs, inviting young entomologists to marvel at the

mind-boggling variety of arthropod life. What reader can resist is a chance to see inside a cockroach’s body to learn how it works? Peek inside the wasp and bee nests. Useful information (why does the world need bees?) and scientific trivia (which beetles are strongest and fastest?) pack every page, while exquisite art and dramatic pop-ups bring the world of bugs to life. This is an ideal gift for nature lovers of all ages. “The Case of the Vanishing Honeybees: a Scientific Mystery,” by Sandra Markle. (Lerner). The author explores the serious topic of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) and how the loss of worker bees threatens crops around the world. From the opening chapter in which a beekeeper discovers thousands of his bees are missing, to the final chapter that talks about what this means to people, the text is clear, straightforward and a little bit scary! It’s likely that several factors cause CCD: changing habitat (fewer nectar-containing flowers); overwork (bees are trucked around the U.S. to pollinate crops without a winter rest); pesticide residue; blood-suck-

ing mites; and a deadly fungus. The close-up photos of bees are exceptional. Capped off with bee factoids, global rescue efforts, and what we can do to help honeybees, this book captures the reader’s attention from start to finish. Connie Goldsmith (www.conniegoldsmith.com) lives in Carmichael where she writes for adults and children. Her newest nonfiction juvenile books, “Bombs Over Bikini: the World’s First Nuclear Disaster,” and “Traumatic Brain Injury: From Concussion to Coma,” are now available. Other books include: “Battling Malaria: on the Front Lines Against a Global Killer,” and “Influenza,” one of the USA Today Health Reports series. Her books can be found in school and public libraries, and at online booksellers.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

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APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

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Maidu Museum and Historic Site event • April 18, Friday, Campfire, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sit under the stars at the outdoor amphitheater to enjoy native stories around the campfire. The staff will provide roasting sticks and marshmallows for a sweet program’s end. Museum doors open at 7 p.m. Free admission if you show your Roseville Public Library card. $5 per person, $16 family of four, under 2 are FREE. • April 19, Saturday, Night Out at the Museum, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. FREE Night Out at the Museum, part of the 3rd Saturday Art Walk. Meet Native American filmmakers Wallace Murray and Tim Campbell. The Museum will be showing the award winning film, “A Grandmother’s Prayer”, a documentary featuring Native American basket weaver Julia Parker. Museum doors open

at 6:30 p.m. Cultural program starts at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be available. • April 27, Yomen: A Spring Celebration, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. FREE Event. Tribal dance groups, traditional art and craft demonstrations, guided trail tours, native storytelling, children’s activities and craft fair. Indian tacos and other foods available for sale. The Maidu Museum is open: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 3rd Saturdays 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Guided Tours Saturdays at 10 a.m. Self-guided tours on weekdays. Admission fees are: $4.50 adults, $4 senior/child, $2 after 2 p.m. Maidu Museum and Historic Site is located at 1970 Johnson Ranch Drive, Roseville. For more information, call (916) 774-5934 or visit www.roseville.ca.us/indianmuseum.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

Prepare Your Child... and Yourself for Camp! American Camp Association®

• Parents – As parents, it is important to focus on the positive aspects of camp. Remember that separation is natural, necessary, and inevitable – what better place to have that first experience than in a caring and nurturing environment designed specifically for children? Parents can also focus on the amazing benefits of camp – an experiential education like no other teaching valuable 21st century survival skills like leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication. “The greatest gifts that parents can give their child are independence and resiliency,” said Peg Smith, ACA’s chief executive officer.

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Happy Hollow Children’s Camp, Nashville, Indiana.

“Parents should remember that by choosing camp they are giving both.” • Siblings - Bob Ditter, family therapist and one of the nation’s leading experts on camp, cautions it is likely that the child left at home will experience separation anxiety and truly miss his or her sibling. To help them prepare, be sure to talk about the upcoming separation. Before the eldest child leaves for camp take a picture of your children together that the sibling can keep in their room or carry around. Remind your children about the communication they can have with each other through letters and postcards. • Other family members – Be sure that everyone is aware of the upcoming experience. Let family members know how to contact camper if they are interested through letters and care packages — make sure they are aware of any communication policies the camp may have, i.e. no phone calls or restrictions on what can be sent in a care package. In addition, an increasing number of camps are using Web sites to display photos or video during the camp session. According to ACA’s 2011 Emerging Issues Survey, 75 percent of respond-

APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

ing camps indicate that they post photos or videos to a Web site for families to view. Fortyfive percent indicate that they post information, photos, and videos to social media outlets like Facebook. Families should be sure to ask camp directors about these options. Camp is an equal opportunity life-changer. By sending a child to camp, families are truly giving a gift that lasts a lifetime. By taking steps to mentally prepare for camp, families not only keep from getting “kid-sick” for their camper, but they can stay positive about the camp experience – which goes a long way toward helping first-time campers adjust to life at camp. And just like taking off the training wheels, the moment families see their camper radiating confidence and joy they will feel that burst of pride and gratitude that they allowed their child this experience. About ACA The American Camp Association® (ACA) works to preserve, promote, and enhance the camp experience for children and adults. ACA-Accredited® camp programs ensure that children are provided with a diversity of educational and developmentally challenging learning opportunities. For more information, visit www. ACAcamps.org.

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or parents, the most heartracing, adrenalin pumping moments happen when you let go and watch your child try something on his or her own. The moment the training wheels come off, the first trip down the driveway on the skateboard, the time our children ride the school bus – these are more than just memories, these are critical moments that define growth and change. For many families, the first time they send their child to camp is one of the biggest let go, hold your breath, and watch them soar moments in childhood. In today’s world of high-tech kids and families who have a constant connection to each other, it’s essential to take the time to emotionally prepare for camp. It is, of course, important to prepare the first-time camper, but families need to make sure that Mom, Dad, younger siblings at home – virtually everyone – is ready to adjust to camp life. The American Camp Association® (ACA) provides the following tips to help ease first-time families into the camp experience:

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The Teacup Pigs of Pennywell Farm

he miniature pigs of Pennywell Farm have become famous thanks to their photographer, Richard Austin. He skillfully captures the joy of being able to fit in a teacup, the palm of a hand, or a toy tugboat––and the fun of living on a farm full of dogs, chicks, mud puddles and more. Weighing in at 8 ounces each, these piglets appear nearly life-size in two new books, Pocket Piggies Colors! and Pocket Piggies Numbers! These books are perfect for tiny hands and curious minds as they learn to identify colors and count to 10. The Pennywell Miniature pigs have been specially bred at Pennywell Farm since 1992. Each pig is unique, with its own color and markings. The average piglet weighs just 8 ounces at birth, and grows to be about a fifth the size of an ordinary piglet. Pennywell Farm is located in South Devon, in the west of England. For more information, visit pennywellfarm. co.uk or workman.com. The books are available “wherever books are sold” or use the following links: http://www.workman.com/products/9780761179795/ http://www.workman.com/products/9780761179801/

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Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center Located 17 miles north of Santa Cruz, at 3600 Highway One, Davenport. Now open Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. For more information or to schedule a group call (831) 427-2288. For information, visit www.ranchodeloso.org or www. facebook.com/RDOSP • Annual Wildflower Weekend, Saturday, April 26, and Sunday, April 27, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Spring has arrived in the Waddell Valley. Each year a unique variety of flowers appear, in an assortment of colors and forms to delight the senses. Come and see what’s in bloom at the annual Rancho del Oso Wildflower Weekend. View the flowers on display at the Nature and History Center and visit them on the park’s trails with displays featuring 50 or more native and non-native species, labeled and grouped by habitat. There will be kid-friendly activities in the Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center as well. Naturalist led wildflower walks at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday enable you to see the blooms in their natural setting, while learning about their unique features. • Wildflower Hike, Saturday, April 12, 10 a.m. Hike starts at the Rancho del Oso gate located along

Highway 1, across from the Waddell Beach parking lot. Take a hike among the wildflowers of Rancho del Oso’s Waddell Valley. Docent Scott Peden will lead a 4-mile hike to view a variety of wildflowers – there’s always something exciting in bloom. Photographers are easily accommodated. Show up with lunch, water and energy to hike. • Fireside Stories, Sunday, April 13, 11 a.m. Pretend, play, sing and explore. Bring the family and gather round the fireplace together at the Nature and History Center for a story followed by activities focused on the theme of the story. This 30-minute program will introduce youngsters (recommend children be at least 3) to the wonders of nature. • Wildflower Weekend Critter Crafts, Sunday, April 26 and 27, noon to 4 p.m. Drop in for fun naturethemed craft time. There will be a free make-and-takeactivity and any age child is welcome to participate. This month it will be making critters that help make the wildflowers at Rancho del Oso bloom.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

Oxnard is Much More Than Strawberries, Wine, and Wildlife by Carmel L. Mooney

hen you ask most Californians what comes to mind when they think about Oxnard, you just might hear about the magnificent strawberries, the gorgeous Channel Islands, or even the wine. While those are still magnificent highlights, Oxnard is now becoming a significant Southern California destination with a burgeoning food scene, world class chefs, and live music. What used to be a sleepy little farming town that was a stop over for some along the Southern California coast has now become a true travel mecca that holds a unique appeal for travelers with varied interests and activity levels. The gorgeous town of Oxnard is a true omni season agricultural travel destination centered around avocados, citrus, grapes, strawberries, and showcased by some of the nation’s most up and coming farm-to-fork chefs. With so much to see and do and delicious nosh to fuel your exploration, this is a family destination that parents and kids can agree on. When it comes to the fabulous dining scene, many Oxnard chefs come from generations of agricultural families who bring knowledge and appreciation of fresh goodness to the table. One such example is Chef Eric Cancino at the Waterside Restaurant & Wine Bar in the Channel Islands Harbor. Chef

Eric creates his Sunday Brunch by visiting the Farmer’s Market and implementing what’s fresh and fabulous like his special grilled cheese with sage derby smoked cheddar, winter pork roulade with pistachios, cranberries and terragon. His desserts are legendary. Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort’s Chef Tim Hulbert makes special white chocolate bark infused with local strawberries. This is deliciously yummy and fun for kids to get a local taste of Oxnard’s famous strawberries. What a gorgeous property with every amenity and comfort a family could desire. Beautifully manicured grounds with numerous pools, spas and private beaches are just some of the highlights. Spectacular views from the ample suites add to the enjoyment. Heritage Square tours and concerts are held in a complex of old ranch style homes that would have been destroyed had locals not painstakingly preserved Oxnard area heritage. Seventeen local families are represented with the Petit House the crowning glory. This is a great place for families to enjoy live music, plays, shopping, wine tasting for mom and dad, and great food. La Dolce Vita, one of the Heritage Square gems offers cooking classes once a month. This little pinnacle offers wonderful food they call Mediterranean fusion. We made crepes with orange liquor syrup during our super-

APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

fun, outdoor cooking class. The owner. Executive Chef and Author Michelle Kenney, is from from Sicily and has a cookbook you won’t want to miss. What a delight. Abel Magana, the Executive Director of the Oxnard Downtown Management District told us, “We have Latino influence at all levels in Oxnard,” as he escorted us from the Heritage Square to the awe-inspiring Mullin Automotive Museum ,with 30 million dollar cars where no purses are allowed. After a delightful dinner, we loved the Stout Brownies with Chef Stroh at the Kitchen, where a casual and fun atmosphere marries with fabulous from-scratch delicacies. The Maritime Museum was another family highlight of our visit. “Ship in Bottles” classes with Robert Little were a blast for the entire clan. Robert is originally from Sioux City, Iowa and is a member of the Ships and Bottle Association of America. He’s a docent and teaches the ship-in-a-bottle classes which were absolutely fascinating.

"Ship in Bottles" classes with Robert T. Little at the Maritime Museum.

Another family-run and family friendly dining favorite, that we thoroughly enjoyed, was a wonderful lunch at at Moqueca Brazilian Restaurant. Each of us had different types of bowls of Brazilian goodness. Every time we visit Oxnard we uncover a new

treasure and this most recent visit was no different. Stop by Oxnard for a day or two next time you are in the area on any of your Southern California travels. Or better yet, plan several days to fully experience this fabulous coastal destination. www.visitoxnard.com

Parenting Topic: Make Grocery Shopping a School Readiness Experience A message brought to you by First 5 Sacramento

veryday life is full of learning experiences for you and your child. When you’re together shopping, walking down the street, playing at the park, or waiting for an appointment, your child learns by watching you and talking with you. Talking together builds your child’s confidence, curiosity, and vocabulary - skills that will help your child be successful later in kindergarten. So next time you’re out together at the grocery store, try these ideas for turning shopping into a fun, school readiness experience.

Labels - As you put things in the shopping cart, say each name out loud. You might say, “This is milk. Milk starts with the letter M. M sounds like mmmmm.” Now have your child try. Counting - Count things as you put them in your cart. You might say, “1, 2, 3. I have three cans of vegetables.” Count the people in front of you in line. Then have your child try. Touching - Let your child put the food in your cart. Talk about how it feels. You might say: “Hold this apple. Feel how smooth it is.” “These frozen vegetables are lumpy and cold.” “Can you feel the pointy corners on this box?” Then have your child describe how other items feel.

Recall - When you get home, ask your child to describe your trip to the store together. For more information on early learning and development, please visit First 5 Sacramento’s Parents Resource Center (http://www.first5sacramento.net/In-The-Community/Pages/ParentResources.aspx). First 5 Sacramento encourages all grandparents and other caregivers to learn about local resources that can help young children. For more information, please call 876-5865 or visit www.first5sacramento.net. About First 5 Sacramento Research shows that a child’s brain develops most dramatically in the first five

years and what parents and caregivers do during these years to support their child’s growth will have a meaningful impact throughout life. Based on this research, California voters passed Proposition 10 in 1998, adding a 50 cents-per-pack tax on tobacco products to support programs for expectant parents and children ages zero to five. In the last year, First 5 Sacramento distributed approximately $14 million a year in Prop 10 revenues to programs and services that meet local needs. Each county has a First 5 Children and Families Commission providing unique local services for that county. Surrounding First 5’s include: First 5 Yolo: 530-669-2475; First 5 Placer: 530-745-1304; and First 5 El Dorado: 530-672-8298.

Count the rabbits and Have fun coloring!

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

Calendar of Events Arts & Crafts April 16, Decorate a Book Bag, 4 p.m., 2443 Marconi Avenue, Sacramento. Celebrate National Library Week by taking a book bag and using your creativity to make it your own at the Arcade Library. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 19, Kooky Creature Feature – Poetry Meets Art, 2:30 p.m. 601 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento. Join Ms. Leslie from Artsy Mommas at the McKinley Library, as she shares some strange and funny poetry featuring make-believe creatures. Family and all ages are welcome to attend. Create your own unique creatures and write silly poems about them. You will be able to use watercolors, collage, drawing materials. For more information, call (916) 264-2920.

Critter Events April 6, Living in Water, 1:30 p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Discover the hidden world of water insects and polliwogs. Using catch and release activities, get a close-up look at amazing little animals that live in our pond and can be found in our local waterways. Information about other Creek Week activities at www.creekweek.net. All ages welcomed. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. April 12, Birding for Families, 10:30 a.m. 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Bring the family out for a birding and nature walk led by a Naturalist and special guest guides from the Sacramento Audubon Society at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. Birdwatchers of all levels welcome. Make sure to bring your binoc-

ulars, or the staff can loan you a pair. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. April 20, Hop, Leap, Jump, 1:30 p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Hop on over for a “hare” raising good time. Learn if rabbits actually lay eggs and take a hike to discover rabbit’s habitat. Explore where the might make a home, hide from danger, and find a tasty plant to eat. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. April 26, Save the Frogs Day, 10:30 a.m. 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Come to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center and celebrate Mother Earth by learning all about some of her most precious creatures, the frogs. Come see the resident amphibians up close, learn how important they are in the web of life, and how they let us know about the health of our local waterways. Make beautiful art celebrating your favorites. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. April 17, Snakes, 1:30 p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. The weather is warm and so are the reptiles. Slither on in to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center to learn all about these ectotherms, (and what the word means), what kind you may find in our area, and meet a resident reptile up close. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

Magic Events April 12, Magic Show, 2 p.m., 5605 Marconi Avenue, Carmichael. Trevor Wyatt and Poof the Magical Rabbit take the audience on a fun filled journey of magic and illusions at the Carmichael Library. As Trevor performs his magic, Poof tries to play his own practical jokes. Watch Poof disappear and reappear in front of everyone’s eyes. This adventure of magic, pranks and lesson of

APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

friendship is a show the whole family will enjoy.

Nature Events Every Saturday, through May 31, Free Hiking, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Deer Creek Hills Preserve. Explore newly marked trails on 4400+ acres of a working cattle ranch. A selfguided trail will be yours to run, explore with your kids, do landscape photography, bird watching or create your own art. Observe wildlife or simply stroll the green lush hillsides, at Deer Creek Hills Preserve. Bring your cell phone, sturdy boots, water supply and high energy snacks. Check-in with the Sacramento Valley Conservancy staff, exchange cell phone numbers and handoff your signed liability form. The gates to the private preserve are unlocked at 9 a.m. and locked at 1 p.m. All ages are welcome and there is no entry fee. Register online at www. sacramentovalleyconservancy. org/calendar.asp

Special Events April 2, 9, 23, 30, Sing Along with Mr. Cooper, 4 p.m., 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento. Join neighborhood favorite Mr. Cooper at the Belle Cooledge Library each Wednesday for 30 minutes of music time and freeze dancing for kids up to 7 years old. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 2, 9, 16, 23, Homework Zone, 3:30 p.m., 828 I Street, Sacramento. Free drop-in homework help for children ages 6 to 12. Trained teen homework coaches help students complete school assignments and develop effective study skills. Held Central Library. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. Also held Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 23, 30, at 5:30 p.m. April 8, 22, 29, Homework Zone, 3:30 p.m., 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento. Free drop-in homework help for children ages 6 to 12. Trained teen homework coaches help students, grades 1 – 8, complete school assignments in all subject areas. Held Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library. For more information, call (916) 264-2920.

April 5, Macroinvertebrate Magic, 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Take a close look at the water striders, backswimmers and diving beetles that call Carmichael Creek their home. Discover why these easily overlooked creatures are so important to the health of a creek, pond, and river. Join a naturalist and step into this fascinating watery world and learn how to get involved in caring for our waterways. Information about other Creek Week activities at www.creekweek.net. All ages welcomed.

April 3, 10, 17, 24, Homework Zone, 4 to 5 p.m.,5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento. Free drop-in homework help for children ages 6 to 12. Trained teen homework coaches help students complete school assignments and develop effective study skills. Held in the Belle Cooledge Library Community Room. For more information, call (916) 264-2920.

April 13, Wildflower Walk, 1:30 p.m. 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Step out of the city and onto the trails at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center in search of the beauty of Spring wildflowers in the Nature Preserve. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

April 3, 10, 17, 24, Stay and Play, 11:45 a.m. 5605 Marconi Avenue, Carmichael. Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their babies, toddlers, and other children to “stay and play” at the Carmichael Library. The staff will put out toys for the children to play with while their

parents socialize. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 4, 18, Read to a Dog, 2 p.m., 8900 Elk Grove Boulevard, Elk Grove. Read to a Dog is a fun and proven method for boosting a child’s reading skills by reading to a trained therapy dog and adult volunteer. Children ages 6 to 12, are invited to bring their own books or borrow one from the Elk Grove Library. Sign up inside the library for 1015 minute sessions. Additional parking is available south of the library at Journey Church, 9645 Elk Grove Florin Road. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 5, A Rainbow of Songs, 2:30 p.m,. 601 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento. Come to the McKinley Library to celebrate Dia de los Ninos with singer/guitarist Juan L. Sanchez. This bilingual show features interactive children’s songs and stories from the Native and African American traditions, Spain, Mexico and Japan. Partially funded by the Friends of the McKinley Library. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 8, 15, 22, 29, Read to a Dog, 3:30 p.m., 5605 Marconi Avenue, Carmichael. Read to a Dog is a fun and proven method for boosting a child’s reading skills by reading to a trained therapy dog and adult volunteer. Children ages 5 to 10, may earn credit for the time spent reading and also earn a book, at the Carmichael Library. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 9, Garden Program, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 11549 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks, south of Madison, in Fair Oaks Park, next to the library. Drop by the open garden at the Horticulture Center and learn how to think grapes and prepare vegetable beds. Take home landscape design tips. Located outside - rain or shine. This is a free event. For more information, call (916) 875-6913 or visit ucanr.edu/sacmg or facebook. com/sacmg.

Calendar of Events April 12, Plant Clinic, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., 5750 Grant Avenue, Carmichael. The UC Master Gardener Plant clinics will be held at Carmichael Park. Bring samples or your problem plants and insects. Find answers to your questions about gardening with limited water. April 14 - 17, Nature Camps, 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Children ages 6 to 11 are invited to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center for Under the Oaks Nature Camps. $20/day members, $25/day non-members; pre-registration required. www.sacnaturecenter.net for registration and info. All camps are 9 a.m. to noon. April 16, Food Preservation Demonstration, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., 4145 Branch Center Road, Sacramento. The Sacramento County UC Cooperative Extension Master Food Preservers will offer a public demonstration: Preserving Meats, at the Sacramento Cooperative Extension Office. There is a $5 material fee, payable at the door. No advanced registration is required. For more information, call (916) 875-6913. April 19, Gold Panning, 10:30 a.m. 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Camichael. Come to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center and get your hands on a pan and catch gold fever. Learn about some of the local Gold Rush history and get your hands dirty as you learn how to pan for gold in hopes of striking it rich. Space is limited, sign-ups taken the day of. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

April 22, Read to a Dog, 6:30 p.m., 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento. Read to a Dog is a fun and proven method for boosting a child’s reading skills by reading to a trained therapy dog and adult volunteer. Children ages 6 to 12, may bring their own books to read to these furry friends at the Belle Cooledge Library, or they may borrow a book from the library’s collection. Held in the community room. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 24, Music, Dance and Sing Along, 10 a.m., 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento. Come to the Belle Cooledge Library for a sing along with Charlie Hope. Enjoy a morning concert for young children and their families. The show will include original and classic songs and lots of opportunities to dance and sing along. This program will be offered in place of Toddler and Preschool storytimes. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 26, Garden Expo and Tour, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 9344 Village Tree Drive, Elk Grove. There will be a Elk Grove Gardens Expo and Garden Tour at Miwok Park. Sponsored by the UC Master Gardeners. May 17, Saturday, Deane Dance Production, 7 p.m., 2300 Sierra Boulevard, Sacramento.This spring production is presented by the Deane Dance Center. The ballet is entitled, “The Story of Noah’s Ark.” It will also be held Sunday, May 18, at 2 p.m. Original music by

Henrik Jul Hansen. Admissions are adults $15, seniors and students $12 and children $10. Tickets are available at the door or call (916) 4530226. For more information, also visit deanedancecenter. com. To October 29, Wednesday, Picnic in the Park, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., 4th and C Streets, Davis. Bring the family to the Farmers Market in Central Park. Enjoy the International Food Faire, kids activities, and live music. For more information, visit www. davisfarmersmarket.org.

Storytime & Puppet Events April 2, 9, Toddler Storytime, 11:15 a.m., 891 Watt Avenue, Sacramento. Toddlers ages (0-5) are invited to the Arden-Dimick Library to listen, sing, play, create and have fun at the storytime program. There will also be a craft activity or “stay and play” time. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Toddler Storytime, 11:30 a.m., 11601 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks. Enjoy weekly storytime fun with the staff at the Fair Oaks Library and stories and songs. For ages 18 months through 3 years. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. April 3, 10, 17, Preschool Storytime, 11 a.m. 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento. Preschoolers ages three and older and their caregivers are invited to the Belle Cooledge Library to join the staff for fun songs, stories, fingerplays, and a craft or play activity, all designed to build early literacy skills. For more information, call (916) 264-2920.

All Aboard for Story Time!

et railroads help introduce and foster the love of reading for your little ones. California State Parks and the California State Railroad Museum are proud to introduce a new reading program on the first Monday of each month starting 11 a.m. on April 7. With exciting locomotives and railroad exhibits as visual backdrops, this interactive and fun new program is designed for imaginative young children ages two to five. Museum staff will read a different railroad-related book each month, starting with All Aboard the Dinotrain by Deb Lund for the premiere “All Aboard for Story Time!” in April. Afterward, little ones can enjoy the Museum with their parents. Whether its toy trains or big locomotives, there is something to discover in the Museum that will thrill children of all ages. The program is free with Museum admission: $10 adults; $5 youths ages 6-17; free for children ages 5 and under. For more information about this new program or the Railroad Museum in general, call (916) 323-9280 or visit www.csrmf.org About the California State Railroad Museum Operated by California State Parks with financial assistance from the non-profit California State Railroad Museum Foundation, the California State Railroad Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. T   he complex of facilities includes the 100,000square foot Railroad History Museum plus the reconstructed Central Pacific Railroad Passenger Station and Freight Depot, 1849 Eagle Theatre, and Big Four and Dingley Spice Mill commercial buildings in Old Sacramento.

Looking for Fun Local Excursions? Weekend Excursion Train Rides California State Parks and the California State Railroad Museum are proud to announce the opening of the 31st season of weekend excursion trains on the Sacramento Southern Railroad on April 5 and 6 and continuing through September. New this season, guests will treated to updated commentary aboard the trains that changes regularly depending on the special theme for each month. Also, the Railroad Museum will offer special “Diesel Days” one weekend per month when the popular excursion trains are pulled by two gracefully-styled, streamlined diesel locomotives. Excursion train ride guests delight in the sights, smells and sounds of an authentic, working locomotive as it rolls along the levees of the Sacramento River for a six-mile, 45-minute roundtrip excursion. The train features a combination of vintage closed coaches with comfortable seats, and open-air “gondolas” with bench style seating. Also new this year, excursion train ride tickets are available to book online in advance at www.csrmf.org or can be purchased in-person starting at 10:30 a.m. the day of the train ride (based on availability) at the Sacramento Southern Railroad ticket office located on Front Street between J and K Streets. All excursion trains depart from the Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot in Old Sacramento (located on Front Street between J and K Streets). Departures are on-the-hour from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the weekends the trains are running. Regular excursion train tickets cost $10 for adults, $5 for youths (ages 6-17), and ages five and under ride free. For passengers desiring a ride aboard the first-class car El Dorado, tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for youths and are free for children five and under. Note: there is a per-ticket service fee when booking online. Groups interested in reserving the entire El Dorado car for a regularly scheduled ride need to do so in advance by calling (916) 322-8485. If summer temperatures reach 100 degrees or higher, trains may be cancelled for the remainder of that day. For more information about the weekend excursion train rides or the California State Railroad Museum in general, please call (916) 323-9280. CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

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APRIL 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Parties!

Peter Rabbit Birthday Party www.birthdaypartyideas4kids.com

large carrots and other vegetables - complete the look eatrix Potter’s character Peter with oversized seed signs, a Rabbit is a wonderful choice wheelbarrow and a few watering cans. Place a small for a children’s themed birthday party! There are ideas for plastic fence leading up to invitations, decorations, favors, the party entrance and over activities, party food and also one of the fence posts place several games that have a Peter a small blue jacket like the Rabbit theme that are fun for one Peter Rabbit might kids of all ages. have lost. Tape strips of white crepe paper or poster board hanging from the door frame so guests themselves sneak into the garden (the party area) under • Glue a white pom-pom ball the fence like Peter Rabbit on the back of solid blue or did in the story. blue and white note cards.   • Decorate party tables with • On garden themed note terra cotta pots, watering cards stamp bunny tracks cans, wheelbarrows and across the front with fresh flowers. A fun idea for flatware is to wrap black ink. green flatware in orange • Print out Peter Rabbit images from the computer napkins in a long triangle onto plain note cards. Colshape so that the napkin or in slightly with colored looks like a carrot and the pencils. flatware peeks out the top like the greens of a carrot.

Peter Rabbit Invitation Ideas

Peter Rabbit Decoration Ideas

• Decorate the front yard as an oversized garden with

Activities • Make Rabbit Ears - Glue felt rabbit ears on headbands or baseball caps and

then let them wear them during the party.

Peter Rabbit Party Games Carrot Treasure Hunt - Before the Peter Rabbit party make lots of triangle carrot shapes cut out of orange poster board. On some of the carrots write a number (that corresponds with a prize you have bought) and then hide the carrots throughout the birthday party area. Ask the children to go on a carrot treasure hunt and try and find all the carrots. When the carrots have all been found let the kids trade in their carrots for prizes. Easter eggs can also be hidden for the children to find. Hide and Seek Peter Rabbit Tag - This fun game combines hide and seek with the game of tag. Choose one child to be “it” and give them a straw hat (like Mr. McGregor) to wear for the game. Have them hide their eyes and count to 10 while the guests scatter to find a place to hide. Mr. McGregor then tries to find the little rabbits. When he tags a rabbit then he gives his hat to the rabbit and they become the new Mr. Macgregor. Peter Rabbit Foods - Fruit Kabobs - cut up chunks of strawberries, pineapples and grapes and place on wooden skewers or pretzel sticks. Veggie tray with ranch dipping sauce, carrot cake, veggie crackers, cupcakes with pastel sprinkles, deviled eggs Peter Rabbit Favor Ideas - Terra cotta pot with vegetable seeds, Peter Rabbit book, bubbles, coloring book, bunny slippers, bunny ears

Peter Rabbit Goody Bag Ideas - Small wooden or plastic wheelbarrow, watering can, terra cotta pot with a blue ribbon tied around the outside, blue paper sacks with a white cotton ball or pompom glued to the back. CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • APRIL 2014

Parties!

Prince Party Ideas www.birthdaypartyideas4kids.com

Prince Invitation Ideas - Print party invitations on blue marbled paper. Hear Ye ... Hear Ye! The Royal Family of _________ proudly announces the royal birthday celebration of Prince ____________ You are hereby requested to attend the royal celebration at the _________ __ (hostâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last name) Castle. Located high on the hill at at __________________ (partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s address) During the hours of ________________ A RSVP is requested at the Queen.Â Â Â â&#x20AC;¨Roll into scrolls and then tie with blue ribbon.Â Or insert into envelopes and a wax seal or gold foil seal on envelope.

Prince Party Decoration Ideas Decorate for the Prince themed party with any of these fun ideas.Â â&#x20AC;˘ Tie helium balloons in silver, white and blue to the mailbox or outside the party area so guests will know where the party is located.Â â&#x20AC;˘ On butcher paper or brown rolls of wrapping paper draw bricks on one side and tape it down to the walkway of the party entrance.Â Attach plastic chains (can be found at hardware stores) on either side of the house and to the ground on either side of the walkway to make a drawbridge for an

entrance.Â If the party will be at night hang strings of lights in the trees outside the party.Â â&#x20AC;˘ Make a sign that says â&#x20AC;&#x153;The __________â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (name of family) Castleâ&#x20AC;?.Â Hang banners or flags (the type that would be seen on castles) outside leading up to the entrance.Â

Parties!

Prince ________ . The child takes their present and gives it to the prince and sits in the throne beside him. The birthday boy will accept the present give guest their goody bag or prize. They can then both open a present together. Great way to get pictures with the prince and each guest.

Games for a Prince Birthday Party

â&#x20AC;˘ Decorate the party table in blues and grays.Â Cups can be decorated with stick on jewels before the party or let guests decorate their own.Â Drape blue fabric over the chairs and gather in the back with a rubber band.Â Place foam swords in the rubber bands.Â

Royal Jousting - Place two blocks of wood or low step stools about 2 feet apart. Two at a time give the Prince and his guests a pool noodle and step up onto the platform. They have to try and knock each other off their platform with the pool noodle within 1 minute. Let everyone have a turn.

â&#x20AC;˘ When the Prince opens his presents - Decorate 2 big chairs with fabric or blankets so they look like thrones.Â Wingback chairs work great or use stiff cardboard to make a low back chair into a throne.Â

Sword Fight with Bubbles - Give each guest a foam sword.Â Have several adults blow bubbles (or use a bubble machine) and have the princes pop the bubbles with their swords.

â&#x20AC;˘ Set the two thrones together and place a small table in between them. Place the goody bags in a basket on the small table or you can fill the basket with wrapped small prizes. When the little prince is opening presents sit him in a throne. Â

Sword and Coin Race Teams use a foam sword and try to balance them on the sword and get all their coins into the treasure box first. Give each team a container that contains 25 or more plastic coins. Set two treasure boxes across from the teams.Â Balance one coin on the sword and race to put it in the box. Then the second person goes until every

â&#x20AC;˘ One by one announce the guests by saying Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hear ye, hear ye! Announcing

APRIL 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Parties!

coin is inside their treasure box. If someone drops a coin the child has to put it back in the container and gives the sword away to the waiting child in line. â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘Variation:Â After playing the first round make guests balance two coins and then three and four coins on the swords instead of one.Â Dragon Egg Hunt - Buy colorful plastic eggs and then fill them with small toys, prizes or candy. Tell the kids that they are dragon eggs and they must find them all to rid the kingdom of the dragons. Hide the dragon eggs before the Prince party starts.Â To make it easy to collect the dragon eggs give the guests a sack or basket to hold the eggs they find. â&#x20AC;¨ â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘Variation:Â Hide chocolate gold coins instead of dragon eggs

Princes Prince Party Favor Ideas - Foam swords, crowns, Lego castle building sets, bubbles, Pool Noodles (jousting) Prince Party Goody holders- Large goblet, box or bag that looks like castle wall bricks, plastic crowns placed inside a clear bag at the bottom, then fill with goodies.

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