California Kids!

Page 1

June 2014

Table of Contents Wordsearch: Happy Father’s Day!...........................page 7 Make it Yourself!.................................page 8 Travel: Disney World in Florida by Carmel L. Mooney...................page 9–10 Who Wrote That? April Pulley Sayre by Patricia Newman........................ page 11 The Book Report: Picture Book Potpourri by Connie Goldsmith....................... page 14 Summer Guide.............................page 16–20 Calendar of Events................ page 23–24 Parties! Parties!........................ page 26–27

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

Maidu Museum and Historic Site events New Exhibit: “Legends of the Land: The United Auburn Indian Community Tribal School Tells its Own Story� Exhibit Show Dates: Through July 15 This exhibition showcases the recently published books from Native American artist, educator and cultural activist Stan Padilla, “Legends of the Land� and “R is for Roundhouse: A Sierra Nevada Foothills Alphabet Book�. The books were created for the intended use of the UAIC Tribal School as cultural and academic enrichment curriculum materials. This exhibit includes original colored pencil drawings from the books, original copies of the books. Stan has exhibited his artwork and worked in education nationally and internationally for over 40 years. He

is currently an Artistic/ Cultural Mentor for the UAIC Tribal School with national and international experience in publishing and artist bookmaking.  June Events June 20, 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. $5 per person, $16 family of four, under 2 are FREE.  Night Out at the Museum: Please join the staff Saturday, June 21, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for a FREE Night Out at the Museum, part of the 3rd Saturday Art Walk. The museum will host a reception for their new exhibit of photographs from

the Herb Puffer collection, in partnership with Pacific Western Traders. Museum doors open at 6:30 p.m. Program starts at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be available.

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:

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$4.50 adults, $4 senior/child, $2 after 2 p.m. The museum is located at 1970 Johnson Ranch Drive, Roseville. For information, call (916) 7745934 or visit www.roseville. ca.us/indianmuseum. Â

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Publisher: George Macko General Manager: Kathleen Egan Contributing Writers: Connie Goldsmith, Carmel L. Mooney, Patricia Newman Art Director: John Ochoa • Graphic Artist: Ryan Wunn Advertising: Jen Henry • 916-429-9901 Distribution/Subscriptions: George Macko Cover Photo: Dad and Son Fishing by Yinghai www.flickr.com/yinghai83/6060741656/

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.

JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

& CRYSTAL ICE CREAM FANTASY

Saturday, June 28

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Mix 96’s Jennifer Wood Honorary Queen Mellisa Paul of News10 and Sac & Co

5 – 9 PM

TICKETS

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www.fairytaletown.org

(916) 808-7462 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

Have fun coloring!

JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

All Aboard for Story Time! June Fairytale L Town Events • Puppet Show, “Cinderellaâ€?, Saturday and Sunday, June 7 and 8, 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Enjoy a playful puppet show in Fairytale Town’s Children’s Theater. Puppet Art Theater Company will perform the classic tale of “Cinderella.â€? Cinderella wants to attend the ball and dance the night away. Unfortunately her stepmother and awful stepsisters conspire against Cinderella, and it is up to her Fairy Godmother to get her to the ball. Tickets are $2 for nonmembers in addition to paid 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.

et railroads help introduce and foster the love of reading for your little ones. Recently introduced, California State Parks and the California State Railroad Museum are proud to expand their new reading program to the first AND third Monday of each month at 11 and 11:30 a.m. This interactive and fun new program is designed for imaginative young children ages two to five. Museum staff will showcase a different railroad-related book each month -- with four opportunities for little ones to hear the monthly story -- then enjoy the Museum with their parents. Whether it’s toy trains or big locomotives, there is something to discover in the Museum that will thrill children of all ages. The cost 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. Widely regarded as North America’s finest and most popular railroad museum, the complex of facilities includes the 100,000-square 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. For 24-hour information, visit www.csrmf.org or call (916) 323-9280.

• Family Campout at Fairytale Town, Friday, June 13, 5:30 p.m. through Saturday, June 14, 7 a.m. Spend the night in Fairytale Town’s storybook park. This exciting overnight adventure includes a theater performance, arts and crafts activities, a scavenger hunt, bedtime stories and a sing-along. Wake up the next morning under Fairytale Town’s canopy of trees to a light continental breakfast. Prices range from $25-$30 per person and include all activities. Member discounts are available. For more information, visit www.fairytaletown.org or call (916) 808-7462. • A Midsummer Night’s Dream & Crystal Ice Cream Fantasy, Saturday, June 28, 5 - 9 p.m. Celebrate William Shakespeare’s popular fairythemed play while enjoying all-you-can-eat Crystal ice cream! This magical midsummer’s evening features multiple ice cream tasting stations, live entertainment, hands-on activities, an olde worlde marketplace and more. Costumes for the whole family are encouraged. No host food and bar. Tickets go on sale May 1 at www.fairytaletown.org. Advance tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 2-12. Day-of tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 2-12. Sponsored by Crystal Creamery and KVIE Public Television. For more information, visit www.fairytaletown. org or call (916) 808-7462. For more information, visit www.fairytaletown.org or call (916) 808-7462.

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

Effie Yeaw Nature Center activities

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pecial Activities- Summer Nature Camps for children 6 to 11. Preregistration required—go to http://www.sacnaturecenter.net for more information and to sign up!

Free Weekend Activities • June 1, Sunday, Nature’s Mechanics, 1:30 p.m. Why don’t birds have gills or fish have wings? What are some of the “built-in” tools animals have? Find out how adaptations help animals survive in their environment. • June 7, Saturday, Nature Tales, 10:30 a.m. Members of the Sacramento Storytellers Guild will share their entertaining tales of animals and nature. • June 8, Sunday, Cold Blooded Creatures, 1:30 p.m. Some have scaly skin, some have slimy skin, some have legs and some do not. Can you guess what they are? Join our naturalist and find out. Meet a resident animal up close. All ages welcome. • June 14, Saturday, Six-legged Sensations, 10:30 a.m. Join a naturalist for a close look at insects commonly found in and around the Nature Area. Then take a creature safari and observe insects in their natural habitat.

• June 15, Sunday, Falcons and Fathers, 1:30 p.m. Bring Dad and meet Rocky, the Nature Center’s resident Kestrel. Learn all about what makes the Kestrel North America’s smallest falcon and how Rocky ended up at the Nature Center. After a good look at this handsome bird, make a Kestrel bracelet to remember your new friend. • June 21, 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 welcomed. Make sure to bring your binoculars, or you can loan you a pair. • June 22, Sunday, Critter Close-Up, 1:30 p.m. Get eye to eye with one of the feathered, lumpy, or scaly residents. • June 28, Saturday, Solstice Stroll, 10:30 a.m. Beat the heat and join a Naturalist for a hike through the preserve as the summer season arrives. See what changes are happening as the weather heats up. • June 29, Sunday, Tools and Tales, 1:30 p.m. Join the staff inside and enjoy some tantalizing tales of creatures, people, and nature. Get a chance to view replica Maidu artifacts made from the gifts of the earth and learn about their many uses. 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.

JUNE 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 Father’s Day!

H

ey Kids! Father’s Day is a day celebrating fatherhood. Many people give gifts, cards and other treats to the father figure in their lives. See how many hidden words you can find related to this wonderful day. Look carefully, as words can appear vertically, horizontally, diagonally, backwards and upside down.

N E E K I S S E S G H F U N N Y Y S

T E S A C F E I R B U X B S A L T T

H O N O R R E S H C G T H P R R I O

X P M B A T C O R T O H P E O X M R

Briefcase Coach Dad Fishing Funny Golfer Father

G N I H S I F S V O M I K P X R A Y

R T S G L V G R L C N O S G G X F T

H Y U Y E L E S W E J I N A P A P E

C A Y E E M I W S L T I K S E B E L

T K X E O D R H A R D W O R K E R L

A I M T B H A C L I U H L B U R O E

C S E D R B I X G C N C O B O S S R

Hard worker Hugs Kisses Memories Mr. Fixit Papa

Y S X N A T L D M D F A W Y R E R U

A E F A C F A S T I N O E D I N E T

L S I A B A E S K E W C R R N A F I

P X R E T D I I H U G S O S N R L T

D P E Y T H T S T M A M I M I F O A

A O D G D Y E D V O E E S T D E G R

D A M D N A R R S M U M R F I X I T

Play catch Practical joker Sports Storyteller Tie Tools TV remote

Make it yourself!

Craft Foam Photo Frame

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ere is a quick and easy craft idea which can turn a photo into a special gift.

King Dad Crown T his “King Dad Crown” is a fun way for the kids to spoil their Dad on Father’s Day - and they’ll enjoy making it, too!

You will need: Sheet of craft foam, foam stickers, photo (or drawing), sheet of card, ribbon to hang, PVA (white) glue

You will need:

You will need to: Cut out a rectangle of craft foam a bit bigger than your picture. Fold the foam in half and cut out a rectangle in the middle, leaving you with a frame about 3cm wide. Decorate the frame with foam stickers. Try and make the frame match the picture. You can decorated white circles to look like soccer balls, or make baseball, basketball or rugby, or, if Dad’s a motoring enthusiast, cars or wheels. Glue the picture to the back of the frame. Glue a loop of ribbon to the top. Cut the card to the size of your frame and glue it to the back.

Rubber Stamped Photo Frame

T

his quick and easy clay photo frame is incredibly effective, and children will enjoy experimenting with the patterns they can make. Of course, if you don’t like your design you can just roll up the clay and start again.

Strip of Gold card big enough to go around Dad’s head, embellishments – including sticky letters, glue, stapler or sticky tape

You will need to: Cut your strip of card into a crown shape. Used simple points or get as fancy as you like. Use stickers to add the words “King Dad”. Decorate the crown. Staple or tape the ends together to secure.

Shirt and Tie Card H ere is a “Shirt and Tie Card” which is just perfect for kids to make for their Dads for Father’s Day.

You will need: Sheet of A4 card, small piece of brightly colored card, scraps of colored paper and glue

You will need: Colored air-hardening clay, old rubber stamps, photo (passport size), card, magnet, double-sided sticky tape and glue

You will need to:

You will need to: Roll out your clay and cut out the shape of frame you would like. Don’t forget to make the hole in the center. Press your rubber stamps into the clay so they leave an impression. Leave your frame to harden for a few days. Use double-sided sticky tape to stick your photo to the back of the frame. Now cut a piece of card the same size as the frame and stick it on to the back with double sided tape. Finally glue a magnet on to the middle of the card if you like.

Fold the card in half, to make your “card.” With the fold on your left, cut a slit about 1inch long down the middle of the card. Fold the top edge of the card over on the diagonal, from the centre cut to the top corners, to make the collar. Cut a tie shape from the bright card and decorate it with scraps of colored paper. Glue your tie to the center of your card. If necessary, add a bit of glue to keep the collar in position.

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

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

A West Coast Family’s Intro to Walt Disney World in Florida by Carmel L. Mooney

To California families who are used to Disney World and California Adventure, it may seem a but daunting to even consider planning a trip to Disney World. It’s one thing to navigate, with family in tow, a “land” successfully, but to navigate an entire “world” is a whole different matter. Whatever approach you use to tackle Disneyland with your clan, triple it and you might have just the right guage to at least get a good feel for the world, or a good portion of it. We can typically cover most of Disneyland and California Adventure in two full, exhausting 12-15 hour days. Mid week, in the off season, we can cover them both adequately in two moderately paced and less frenzied 12 hour days. Multiple those two ideas, times three, and you should be good for a trip around the world, Disney World that is. The major differences to remember are the mass mileage and vast spread between and encompassing the various parks and kingdoms, along with transportation to and from each park, and finally the multitude of Disney lodging options. When it comes to Disney World, the Magic Kingdom is the pinnacle for many families. Much like Disneyland back home, it’s a focal point and similar to the west coast version, on steroids. Pretty much everything is bigger with the exception of It’s a Small World; no pun intended. If you’re looking for the perfect park to take the little princess or the little pirate, Magic Kingdom is the place for your family. Magic Kingdom is nearly an entire remake of Disneyland, itself. Here, you’ll find the Disney princesses, Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean (and even a Pirates of the Caribbean roleplay where they’ll make you look like a real pirate), as well as Thunder Mountain Railroad, and everyone’s favorite: Splash Mountain. Main Street and the lay out of the park is very similar to the California version so if

you know your way around Disneyland you won’t even need a map. Epcot is a beautiful and captivating place filled with countries and restaurants and cultures from around the world. Let’s suppose your kids are taking time off from school to go on this special Disney vacation with you. They can still learn—the Disney way, at Epcot’s fun, scientific innovation centers. At Epcot, you’ll also find amazing cross cultural restaurants and shopping along with multi-ethnic food, shows and music. Everyone loves Soarin’, 3D Captain EO, and DisneyWorld’s newest attraction at Epcot The TestTrack where you’ll have three minutes to design and customize your very own Chevrolet and then actually test-RIDE your new car as you compete with others in your group. If you and your family are big fans of some of Disney’s most famous animal movies, The Lion King, The Jungle Book, etc...then you’ll LOVE Animal Kingdom. It’s like a zoo...inside of an amusement park. As you walk through Animal Kingdom, you may encounter some real gorillas, monkeys, and even dinosaurs. Animal Kingdom is especially famous for it’s new Dinosaur ride, which is very similar to the Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland, but with Dinosaurs.

JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Animal Kingdom is also famous for it’s new thrill-ride, Expedition Everest. If you’re interested in movies and celebrities, Hollywood Studios is definitely the place you want to spend a great deal of your time. With it’s amazingly themed gift shops, Hall of Fame, and the thrilling AeroSmith rollar coaster ride, this park is much like the Hollywood section of California Adventure but think---entire theme park. And if you want a fun mode of transportation, other than monorails and buses, be sure to take a boat going from Hollywood

Studios back to Epcot, or the boardwalk. The Boardwalk hotel is one of the two most luxurious family-friendly hotels in Walt DisneyWorld Resort. With beautiful pools, gorgeus rooms, and two of Disney’s parks only a walk to the ferry away, what could be better? Parents will appreciate the quiet pool where camelias and jasmine and other tropical flowers pungently adorn the walkways for serenity and relaxation after a busy day of noise and excitement. In the hallways and lobbys during the evening, kids will

enjoy juggling and magic acts for free, throughout the property. Disney’s Beach Resort Hotel is, by far, one of the nicest and most conveniently located hotels in the entire resort. In fact, it’s known to be the one hotel with the biggest pool in the world. Three spas, many pools, of all kinds, private sandy beaches for kids, as well a river pool, make this spectacular. But will you still have enough energy afterwards for the thrilling pirate ship water slide that takes you from the beach across the boardwalk and into the multi-acre pool?

Travel: Continued from page 9

Be sure to stop on the beach for complimentary bonfires and roasting marshamallows on the beach at night. MagicBands will make your stay at Walt Disney World Resort more enjoyable with less time in the lines, and more time on the rides. Customize your MagicBand online with your name engraved inside and any color you want (red, blue, green, pink, yellow, orange, or grey) and have it shipped to your hotel resort. What’s so special about these MagicBands? Pressing the engraved Mickey Mouse head to another engraved Mickey Mouse head (such as on your hotel room’s door lock) will serve as your room key, your FastPass to any ride without having to wait in line, as well as even your credit card if, let’s say, you want to get a snack at one of the parks’ vendors, or buy a souvenir at one of the parks’ gift shops. MagicBands will help you make the most of your stay at Walt Disney World Resort, making your time more efficient, enjoyable, and fun. Remember that all the parks are spread out and require up to an hour or more of trasporation time to get from one to the other, often by bus, boat or ferry.

It’s not like the west coast version where you can walk from one park to the other in under two minutes. Just the monorail alone, covers over 30 miles of track. We walked 36.4 miles in just the first four days, so be sure to pack very comfortable shoes, band aids, extra socks and/or shoe inserts for maximum comfort. Expect to be tired and pack your strollers, fanny packs, back packs or purses accordingly. The Memory Maker program is a convenient way to not have to lug your camera around the world for a week. By paying a set fee before you hop from park to park you can have your clan’s photos taken professionally at major themed spots in all parks, and on most major thrill rides and then sort, order, and share later or when you get home. The last two times we have gone in the Spring it rained very heavily for days. It’s well worth it to stop at the Dollar Tree or a similar discount store and pick up several rain ponchos, just in case, before you get there. You will be very glad you did. Also if you fly into Orlando International Airport, be sure you take a lot of change and dollar bills in your rental car as you will encounter a lot of tolls between the airport and your Mickey themed adventure. Disney World is an experience beyond compare to the smaller west coast version, but do your research, plan ahead, pack accordingly and you will be glad you ventured out into the other Happiest Place on Earth.

H av e f u n c o l o r i n g !

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

Who wrote that? The Creators of Your Child’s Favorite Books Featuring April Pulley Sayre

By Patricia Newman

“F

rogs make me happy,” says prolific nature author April Pulley Sayre. Each of her nonfiction titles focuses on a fascinating aspect of nature that for the average writer would require months of research, but not for Sayre. “My daily life is science goofiness,” she says. “I wake up in the morning and read science news online, we have natural history magazines on our coffee table, I watch nature documentaries, our travel is keyed to events that have to do with nature and seasons…I spend four to eight hours a day working on my photography sometimes out in nature studying ice, studying birds. So the books spin out of that. It’s hard to call it research when it’s your daily passion.” When Sayre first began writing she chose exotic habitats and creatures she encountered on her travels, but she realized that her readers did not even know about the squirrels in their yards or the Canada Geese in the sky. “[I thought that] knowing the interesting connections and…the poetry of their everyday life and the nature they actually see would give them more of a sense of wonder because they know the shape of a goose or a flower or a squirrel.” Sayre began writing as a child, and particularly remembers crafting poems about snow and icicles in a little notebook while sitting in the

back seat of the car enroute to one of her family’s many ski trips. She collected poetry books as a child and recalls savoring the deliciousness of language—copying out her favorite passages and memorizing them. Throughout high school and college Sayre remembers searching for the perfect form for her writing. “I didn’t think widely enough for the novel,” she says. Even short stories were too long. Although she loved poetry, it limited her. “But the picture book fit my brain in a way other genres don’t,” she says, and much of her success with the picture book format comes from the fact that she has not lost that sense of wonder and joy inherent to childhood. “I get to celebrate the wonders of nature in my books,” she says. Initially, Sayre began writing teacher guides for the National Geographic Society

JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

and the National Wildlife Federation, followed by the straight-forward writing that characterizes many school and library series. A week-long writing workshop sponsored by Highlights showed her different types of picture books and she recalls saying, “I could do that with nonfiction…I learned through experimentation and failure and I’m thankful to the editors that rejected my work or gave me hints because they contributed to my work whether I did books with them or not.” Sayre’s book ideas usually come from moments when her mind is in an open state. The idea for Vulture View, winner of a Theodore Geisel Award for the most outstanding book for a beginning reader, occurred while Sayre gazed out over the Panama Canal. But most often ideas come when she starts to wake in the morning. Eat Like a Bear began with a phrase that popped into her head early one morning: to be a bear. “What would it be like to be a bear?” she remembers asking herself. “What would it be like to have the claws of a bear? To scratch and rip things apart. I was thinking of the whole experience of being like a bear, but when I started writing the book…I was just writing about eating.” Sayre wrote with a steady confidence that the book idea would pull together—a confidence most writers don’t often feel at the start of a new project. Rhythm and rhyme figure prominently in Sayre’s current work, whether it’s the energetic chant of Rah, Rah, Radishes or Go, Go, Grapes, or the lyrical free verse rich with vocabulary in Eat Like a Bear. With each book Sayre plays to find the right voice to match the age of her audience and the content she’s trying to convey. “I have many books that I’ve written in different ways where the voice is not working,” she admits. “It’s annoying when you can’t find the right voice.” Raindrops Roll, an upcoming title, features Sayre’s photographs. She spent four months last summer photographing various creatures during rainstorms: butterflies with raindrops on their heads; raindrops falling on leaves; caterpillars and katydids with raindrops on them. “I got

really, really obsessed with raindrops and I could not stop.” When she submitted the book to her publisher she says, “I was kind of scared because I loved it so much,” and she worried that her editor wouldn’t. The manuscript sold in only five days.

Sayre’s overall goal with every book she writers is to transmit wonder. When young readers pick up one of her books, it is clear to them that she shares their joy at seeing a frog’s face. Next month: Erica Perl

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 APRIL PULLEY SAYRE Visit: www.aprilsayre.com/

SELECTIONS FROM

APRIL PULLEY SAYRE’S LIBRARY

Eat Like a Bear, Henry Holt, 2013. Here Come the Humpbacks!, Charlesbridge, 2013. Let’s Go Nuts! Seeds We Eat, Beach Lane Books, 2013. Go, Go, Grapes: A Fruit Chant, Beach Lane Books, 2012. Trout Are Made of Trees, Charlesbridge, 2008. Rah, Rah, Radishes: A Vegetable Chant, Beach Lane Books, 2011. Vulture View, Henry Holt, 2007. One Is a Snail, Ten Is a Crab, Candlewick, 2003. Stars Beneath Your Bed: The Surprising Story of Dust, Greenwillow, 2005.

Upcoming

Woodpecker Wham, Henry Holt, 2015. Raindrops Roll, Beach Lane Press, 2015. The Slowest Book Ever, Boyds Mills Press, 2015. Squirrels Sleep, Henry Holt, 2016. Seagulls Soar, Henry Holt, 2017.

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Sacramento

Rancho Cordova

1910 J Street (916) 443-2862

12401 Folsom Blvd. (916) 985-0822

Elk Grove

Roseville

7727 Laguna Blvd. (916) 478-2400

731 Sunrise Ave. (916) 773-3950

6 Present this for a FREE kid’s meal!* Valid until 7/15/14. *For kids 12 and under. One Kid’s meal per adult entrée purchased. Coupon valid for up to 2 free kids meals.

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Visit us at www.OSF.com CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

For Baby! Newest Offerings from MacKenzie-Childs

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Toddler’s Bib Bow Tie the Frog ($25): Happy companions to our toddler dinnerware! Protect your little ones from spills and drips with our adorable Toddlers’ Bibs. Cotton/polyester blend with an embroidered frog, and a brightly striped scallop collar dotted with fish. Bib fits neatly at the top of the box of our matching Toddler’s Dinnerware Set (sold separately) to complete a sweet and oh-so-useful gift. Tie closure. 80% cotton, 20% polyester.

Toddler’s Dinnerware Set Frog ($48): The classic melamine set with segmented plate for when they are just learning to use a fork and spoon. Delightfully packaged as a gift set, this barnyard art is sure to please. The perfect baby gift. For more information, visit www.mackenzie-childs.com

JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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THE BOOK REPORT

Picture Book Potpourri By Connie Goldsmith

W

hile children’s literature contains as many genres as adult literature, many books published for children are picture books. The simple words and colorful art continue to beguile young listeners. Picture books must be visually appealing to the adults who purchase them and must stand up to the ritual of repeated readings that children demand. Take a look at the selection below and find the book that’s just right for your child.

and parents to do together. Changes in the bright, eyecatching photographs of toys, blocks, trinkets and treasures are more challenging to discover than one might expect. Each of the puzzle pages are titled, such as “Look and See from the Sea,” and “Look and See Safari Switch.” The end material shows more ‘look and see fun’ as well as the answers. This may well be the first in a series of visual puzzle books for young readers.

“Bad Bye, Good Bye,” by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Jonathan Bean. (Houghton Mifflin). It just takes a page turn or two to understand what the title means. What kid doesn’t hate moving day and saying a ‘bad bye’ to a good friend? To start with, it’s a rainy day with gray clouds, riding in a hot car. But gradually, the family reaches “Gold wheat. Nice dog.” And a blue pool in a motel. Then on to the new house, the new room, and best of all, the new friend. “Bad Bye” is now “Good Bye.” Unwelcome change is a universal theme among young children, and the sparse words, combined with the engaging ink-and-water-colored art perfectly capture the ups and downs of moving day. This is a lovely book to help ease a difficult transition.

“At the Same Moment, Around the World,” by Clotilde Perrin. (Chronicle). This is not the first book to depict a series of children around the world in their own time zones, but it may be the most beautiful. The book is thirteen inches in height and seven inches wide, providing lots of vertical space to depict the towering trees of Alaska, the tall buildings of Dubai, and the high Himalayan Mountains. The book shows children in every time zone, and on each continent, both above and below the equator. Keita counts fish with his father in Senegal. Benedict drinks hot chocolate in Paris. Mitko chases the school bus in Bulgaria, and Antonio is sleeping in Brazil. End matter describing time zones and a four-page pull-out world map showing all the children add to the mix. Story, art, information, culture – this book has it all. ** Reviewer’s pick of

“Look and See: a What’sNot-the-Same Game,” by Bill Kontzias. (Holiday House). The instructions are simple: “Look at the first picture. Look at the second. What’s not the same?” Objects are added, moved and removed, to create an innovative, interactive puzzle book that’s ideal for children

“Tugboat,” by Michael Garland. (Holiday House). Tugboats may be small, but they are mighty in power and they have very busy days. “The day begins. The tugboat rests at the dock.” After the captain and crew board, the tugboat gets right to work. It guides

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the month**

a cargo ship into port. It pushes a beautiful ocean liner out to sea. It pulls a barge filled with coal and then a stinky garbage barge. A simple glossary at the end shows the kinds of boats that a tugboat helps. Nonfiction books such as Tugboat are gaining in importance for the youngest children as schools move toward the Common Core Standards. Lively, colorful and simple: a new Michael Garland book is always a treat, and this one is no exception. “A is for Awesome,” by Dallas Clayton. (Candlewick). This charming alphabet book goes

beyond the usual, “A is for apple.” Instead, letters feature feelings, alliteration and rhyme. “C is for confident, cool and collected. D is for dreaming things never expected.” Each rhyme is surrounded by drawings of miniature objects that further illustrate the letters, such as flag, fox, frog, fly, feather, and fish for the, “F is for foolish fantastical fun.” The drawings, fuzzy fonts and quirky rhymes make this an alphabet book extraordinaire, designed to make children feel good about themselves and their lives. The book closes with the author/illustrator’s wish that, “I hope it helps you

learn some new letters that you can use to make magical words and share big ideas!” And that’s an aspiration many of us wish for our children. Connie Goldsmith (www. conniegoldsmith.com) lives in Carmichael where she writes for adults and children. Her newest nonfiction juvenile books, “Bombs over Bikini,” 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 • JUNE 2014

JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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Railroad Museum & History Museum C

alifornia State Parks, the California State Railroad Museum and the Sacramento History Museum are proud to offer extended summer hours on Thursday evenings as part of a special “Thursday Night at the Mu-

seums� program through August 28. Both museums located in Old Sacramento State Historic Park will stay open until 8 p.m. on Thursdays with one exception. On Thursday, August 14, the California Railroad Museum will not be open for

extended hours but will offer special evening excursion train rides at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. that evening only. In addition, the Sacramento History Museum is offering Thursday evening Adult Underground Tours all summer long. Â

1960 Electric Shopper

All normal museum, excursion train ride and Adult Only underground tour prices apply during the “Thursday Night at the Museumsâ€? extended hours program. Railroad Museum admission is $10 for adults, $5 for youths (ages 6-17), and children ages five and under are free. Evening excursion train tickets cost $10 for adults, $5 for youths (ages 6-17), and ages five and under ride free. VIP train rides aboard the first-class El Dorado are $20 for adults, $15 for youths and free for children five and under. Sacramento History Museum admission is $6 for

More information about the California State Railroad Museum is available at (916) 323-9280 or www.csrmf.org (for excursion train tickets). More information about the Sacramento History Museum is available at (916) 808-7059 or www.historicoldsac.org (for underground tour tickets).

Graduation Platters Honoring the Grad!

It’s Electrifying! Alternative Fuel Vehicles in Californi� Presented By

adults, $4 for youth (ages 6-17), and children ages five and under are free. Adult Only underground tours cost $20 (for guests 21 and over). Train ride tickets for August 14 and underground tours tickets are available for advance purchase online.

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

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JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

17

30th Annual Catfish Derby S

an Joaquin County Parks and Recreation and the Delta Fly Fishers will hold the 30th year of the annual Catfish Derby, Saturday, June 7, beginning at 6:15 a.m. at Oak Grove Regional Park in Stockton. Over 2,500 lbs. of catfish will be planted prior to the derby, which is open to everyone. Prizes will be awarded in youth and adult categories. Kids age 15 years and younger fish for catfish FREE at Oak Grove’s 10-acre lake during the event. There is no registration fee, however, a $5 fishing permit fee and valid CA. Fishing license are required for those 16 years of age or over. A $6 vehicle-parking fee will also apply. All State Fish and Game laws apply. Participants must supply their own fishing equipment. Oak Grove Regional Park is located on Eight Mile Road and Interstate 5 in Stockton. Park gates will be open at 6:15 a.m., derby closes at 10 a.m. and the last weigh-in is at 12:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded shortly thereafter. For more information, call (209) 331-2050 or visit www.sjparks.com.

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

What to Keep in Mind when Packing for Camp American Camp Association

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s the remaining days in the school year pass by, children are daydreaming about summer. For those attending camp, they may be wondering what they will do and who they will meet. For parents, the approach of summer camp also brings questions regarding what they should pack for their child – what is too much, what is too little. Parents can contact their camp for specific packing lists and guidelines. In addition, the American Camp Association® (ACA) suggests the following guidelines for parents to keep in mind when packing for camp: • Headgear – Parents should consider packing items to protect a camper from the sun. ACA suggests that parents pack scarves, bandannas, baseball caps, or a sunhat, as well as needed eyeglasses, sunglasses, and swimming goggles. • Clothing – Clothing is a necessary component of camp, just don’t expect any to return home clean! ACA recommends families include T-shirts, a swim suit, and shorts for hot days; a jacket, sweatshirt, jeans for cool or cold days; and a raincoat or poncho for rainy days. Also, long pants will protect a camper from poison ivy, bugs, and thorns during hikes. Check with the camp to see if dress clothes are required.

• Footwear – Appropriate footwear is one of the most important items to pack for children at camp, especially when they are hiking, spelunking, running, and heading to the beach. ACA recommends families consider packing boots, tennis shoes, sandals, lots of socks — and dress shoes, if the camp requires them. Remember that shoes should be broken in prior to the start of camp. • Bed and Bath Needs – For children attending a resident camp, parents should remember to pack the home basics. ACA recommends a Photo courtesy American Camp Association family bring towels, as well as a blanket, pillow, Camp Echo in Coleman High Country, Merrick, NY. pillow cases, sheets, sleeping bag, laundry bag, and mattress pad. Bathroom Kits are essential. Families should pack a brush and comb, shamACA recommends that families prepare for camp poo, soap and soap container, toothbrush and together. Decisions about camp, including from holder, toothpaste, deodorant, insect repellent, what to pack, should be made together as a family. feminine products, sun block, shaving gear, and When children participate in the decision-making lip balm with sun block in it. process, their likelihood of enjoying a positive experience is improved. For expert advice on what • Additional Items – ACA recommends that to pack, or preparing for camp, visit ACA’s parent parents pack some additional items including resource site at www.CampParents.org. books and magazines, flashlights and batteries, Frisbees or other toys, a water bottle, and writing About ACA: The American Camp Association® (ACA) materials. When considering electronics, musical works to preserve, promote, and enhance the camp experiinstruments, and other special gear, check with ence for children and adults. For more information, visit the camp about policies. www.ACAcamps.org.

Have fun coloring!

JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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Photo courtesy American Camp Association

YMCA CAmp Willson, Bellefontaine, Ohio.

Hello Camper! American Camp Association

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amp is a special time for children and youth. Through a positive camp experience campers develop self-esteem, ward off summer learning loss, and develop a sense of independence. For the families at home, communicating with their campers is a fun and exciting way to share in the camp experience. The American Camp Association® (ACA) suggests the following do’s and don’ts for families to keep in touch with their happy camper: • DO give your child pre-addressed, stamped envelopes or postcards so that he or she can keep you informed of camp activities. • DO send a note or postcard in advance to the camp so there will be a personalized touch of home when your child arrives. This lets young campers know that the family is thinking about them, assures campers that parents know they are having a good time, and expresses enthusiasm for the camp’s activities. • DO check with the camp director to see what the camp’s policies are regarding care packages. Be sure to ask what items may or may not be included. Also, consider sending your child to camp with photos or a favorite stuffed animal. • DO avoid mentioning how much parents, siblings, family, and even pets miss them. • DON’T worry. Your natural reaction is to call on the first day just about bedtime to see how your camper is doing. Remember that counselors are trained to help campers adjust to camp life. Many camps also offer families the opportunity to check in from afar, using technology to post photos and video of daily activities to camp Web sites. It’s important for families to always check with the camp director prior to camp to get the scoop on policies — from what electronics are allowed at camp to correspondences with home. ACA reminds families that there truly is a camp for every child and every situation. For more information on the life-changing experience of camp, or to use ACA’s Find a Camp database to find the perfect camp experience for your child, visit www.CampParents.org. In addition, families can follow ACA on Facebook and Twitter for helpful hints and camp information. 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. There are over 2,400 ACAaccredited camps that meet up to 300 health and safety standards. For more information, visit www.ACAcamps.org.

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

Discovery Museum “Gathering of Honored Elders” event Science and Space T Center events • Terrific Tyrannosaurs, Sunday, June 1, 12:30 to 4 p.m.
There is a plethora of T-rex excitement this weekend at the Discovery Museum Science and Space Center. Explore the museum’s Nature Trail to learn about the prehistoric reptile. Visit “Blast from the Past,” with rock, fossil and dinosaur exhibits. There is a special area dedicated to this colossal beast. Enjoy a fun time in the classroom by completing a jointed paper T-rex craft (children 12 and under). Planetarium shows are at 1 and 3 p.m. for ages 4 and older. • Cosmic Comets, Saturday and Sunday, June 7 and 8, Noon to 4 p.m.
Celebrate comets this weekend at the Discovery Museum. All ages will enjoy the family feature- “The Comet Kitchen” (noon and 2 p.m. each day). Learn how to make a comet nucleus at home, using household ingredients and dry ice. Visitors ages 4 and older experience a special planetarium program, highlighting comets and the spacecraft used to study them. Don’t forget to stop by the lab and craft up a fun comet take-home. • Paleontologists: Past and Present, Saturday and Sunday, June 14 and 15, Noon to 4 p.m.
Introduce your children to the science field of paleontology this weekend at the Discovery Museum. The little ones can play in the dig pit finding “fossils” beneath the sand. the Family Feature at noon and 2 p.m. is a play highlighting some of the most famous paleontologists in history- Roy Chapman Andrews and Mary Anning. At the end of this theatrical presentation, children 12 and under receive a fossil cast souvenir to take home. Don’t forget to visit the classroom and get artistic with a craft activity. Remember, admission includes planetarium shows at 1 and 3 p.m. for ages 4 and older.

o honor and commemorate California’s Native Elders, the State Indian Museum will host the 37th Annual “Gathering of Honored Elders” on-site at the Museum on Saturday, June 7. During the special event, an annual celebration of the California Indian Heritage Center Foundation and the State Indian Museum, the California Indian community Elders—the keepers of the traditions— will be honored for their role in passing down the important history and culture of Native California people. In addition to complimentary admission for the special day, a sponsored lunch will be provided to the tribal Elders and Indian tacos will be available for purchase by Museum visitors. Native American dancers, guest speakers, community service organizations, and arts and crafts vendors will also be on hand to enrich the experience. An official proclamation from the Governor’s office in celebration of the contributions of California’s Indian people will be presented. In addition, the event will include door prize drawings of unique, Native-made arts and crafts donated by local Native artisans. The Gathering of Honored Elders event is co-sponsored by California State Parks,

California Indian Heritage Center Foundation, Buena Vista Rancheria, Hutuanape Foundation, Jackson Rancheria, Sacramento Native American Health Center, the United Auburn Indian Community and the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation. The special “Gathering of Honored Elders” event hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the Museum is open until 5 p.m. that day. The Museum is located at 2618 K Street, Sacramento. For more information, call (916) 324-0971 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/indianmuseum. About the State Indian Museum State Historic Park: The State Indian Museum State Indian Museum is operated by California State Parks and supported by the California Indian Heritage Foundation. The Museum is open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day) for self-guided tours and school group visits. The museum is located in midtown Sacramento at 2618 K Street. Current exhibits include traditional basketry, beadwork, ceremonial regalia and hunting & fishing items associated with many of the tribes of California, as well as contemporary artwork. For more information, please call (916) 324-0971 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/indianmuseum.

• International SUN-day, Saturday and Sunday, June 21 and 22, Noon to 4 p.m.
Welcome the summer season by taking part in International SUN-day. Special guests, the Sacramento Valley Astronomical Society, will be outside with their solar telescopes. These hydrogen alpha scopes allow you to see the sun directly, showing sun spots and prominences. Talk to SVAS about telescopes, backyard astronomy, and community viewing opportunities. This is an exciting opportunity for the entire family. Stop by the classroom to make and take a UV bead bracelet. Admission includes a sun-themed planetarium show at 1 and 3 p.m. for ages 4 and older. • Amateur Radio Weekend, Saturday - Sunday, June 28 and 29, Noon to 4 p.m.
Did you know you could talk around the world without the Internet? Learn more about amateur radio, also called “ham radio”, a system you can use when your cell phone dies or the Internet is down. Amateur radio operators can talk through satellites and with astronauts too. This technology is useful for weather spotters and can support recovery efforts in emergencies. Try your hand at being an amateur radio operator in the laboratory set-up on both Saturday and Sunday and put radio to work. 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 to 12 years old. For more information, call (916) 808-3942 or visit www.thediscovery.org. JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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Introducing Music to Kids A message brought to you by First 5 Sacramento

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inging and listening to music is a great way for toddlers to develop language and learning skills.

Listen and Learn • Let your child listen to the same song repeatedly. While you may be tired of hearing a favorite song over and over, repetition helps kids learn new words and meanings. • Rhyming songs help your child hear different sounds and develop stronger literacy skills. The song “I’m a Little Teapot” is a great example as “stout,” “spout,” “shout” and “out” all rhyme. • Studies show music helps kids’ memory, such as the order of letters in the alphabet, because songs tap into systems in our brains that are sensitive to melody and beat. • Sing counting songs, like “One, Two, Buckle My Shoe,” “This Old Man” or “Five Little Monkeys.” The repetition in these types of

songs makes it easier for young children to remember a number sequence. • Music also offers a fun way to learn early math concepts, like patterns and classification. Choose songs that have a repetitive rhythm or lyrics to help your child anticipate patterns. “Pop Goes the Weasel” and “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” are great for this. Move That Body • Music provides a great opportunity for exercise and play. Use the beat to get up and dance. • Practice balance and coordination with songs that are action-based. Songs like “If You’re Happy and You Know It” offer plenty of opportunities to clap hands, stomp feet and shout out loud – even doing multiple actions at the same time! • Develop fine motor skills and the small muscles in your child’s hands and fingers with interactive songs. “The Wheels on the Bus,” “Itsy, Bitsy

Spider” and “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” are just a few examples. Get Creative with Instruments • Making music doesn’t have to be expensive. Use household items for hours of fun. Empty pots and bowls, wooden spoons and spatulas are a few examples. • You can also make instruments with your child. Fill up several glasses of water to different levels and tap on each glass with a spoon. Voilà! You’ve got a xylophone. Or fill up an empty water bottle with some rice or dried beans for a shaker. A cereal box can also be given new life as a drum, using unsharpened pencils as drumsticks. • And of course practice those words with the sound of your voice. Listen to First 5 California’s free (http://www.pandora.com/station/pl ay/1395004489772200655) Pandora radio channel at www.pandora.com with popular songs for children.

For more information on early learning and development and First 5 Sacramento programs, please please call 916-8765865 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.

Have fun coloring!

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

Calendar of Events Arts & Crafts June 7, Make a Pet Rock, 2 p.m., 2901 Truxel Road, Sacramento. Kids, ages 6 to 12 are invited to the South Natomas Library to design and decorate a pet to take home. This pet doesn’t need food, exercise, or doctor’s visits. All your pet rock needs is a little love and your artistic skills to make him or her unique. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 12, Light Sabers with Art Beast, 2 p.m., 601 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento. After reading a rousing tale of space adventures, visitors and the staff at the McKinley Library will use pool noodles and a range of decorative tapes and jewels to create a oneof-a-kind light saber for battling unfriendly space creatures. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 18, Make a Pet Rock, 3 p.m., 2443 Marconi Avenue, Sacramento. Kids, ages 6 to 12 are invited to the Arcade Library to design and decorate a pet to take home. This pet doesn’t need food, exercise, or doctor’s visits. All your pet rock needs is a little love and your artistic skills to make him or her unique. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 26, Balloon Powered Cars, 2 p.m., 601 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento. After reading Miss Spider’s New Car, the staff at the McKinley Library will help you make balloon powered cars. Built small boxes with skewer axles and wooden bead tires, these boxcar dragsters show surprising speed. For more information, call (916) 264-2920.

Critter Events June 3, 10, 17, 24, Read to a Dog, 3:30 p.m., 5605 Marconi JUNE

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, are invited to the Carmichael Library and can bring their own books to read to these furry friends, or they can borrow a book from the library. Join the fun in the community room. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 4, Read to a Dog, 6:45 p.m.,11601 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks. 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 are invited to Fair Oaks Library and can bring their own books to read to these furry friends, or they can borrow a book from the library. Join the fun in the community room. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 6 and 20, 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 are invited to Elk GroveLibrary and can bring their own books to read to these furry friends, or they can borrow a book from the library. Join the fun in the community room. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 8, Cold Blooded Creatures, 1:30 p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Join the fun at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center for this special program. Some have scaly skin, some have slimy skin, some have legs and some do not. Can you guess what they are? Join the naturalist and find out. Meet a resident animal up close. All ages are welcome. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. June 11, Reptile and Insect Show, 3 p.m., 2443 Marconi Avenue, Sacramento. Python Ron’s Repitle Kingdom will be at the Arcade Library. Python Ron, Ron McGee, presents a

2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

learning experience about the world of reptiles and insects. Kids will observe, touch, and have the opportunity to hold reptiles and insects of various colors and sizes. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 14, Six-legged Sensations, 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Join a naturalist at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center for a close look at insects commonly found in and around the Nature Area. Then take a creature safari and observe insects in their natural habitat. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. June 15, Falcons and Fathers, 1:30 p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Bring Dad and meet Rocky, the Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s resident Kestrel. Learn all about what makes the Kestrel North America’s smallest falcon and how Rocky ended up at the Nature Center. Then make a Kestrel bracelet to remember your new friend. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. June 21, Birding, 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Bring the family to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center for a birding and nature walk. Bring your binoculars or borrow a pair from the staff. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

Street, Sacramento. Gabe Kerschner from Wild Things provides live educational programs with wild animals from around the world. Gabe always surprises with exotic animals. This program will be held at the Ella K. McClatchy Library. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 24, 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 are invited to the Belle Cooledge Library and can bring their own books to read to these furry friends, or they can borrow a book from the library. Join the fun in the community room. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 25, Dog Performance, 3 p.m., 2443 Marconi Avenue, Sacramento. Bring the kids, ages 6 to 12, to the Arcade Library for this very special performance. Come see colorful props, silly dog comedy and amazing stunts. The Busy Bee Dogs are known for their originality and one-of-a-kind, down home, friendly performances, you have to see it to believe it. For more information, call (916) 264-2920.

Nature Events June 28, Stroll, 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Beat the heat and join a Naturalist at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center for a hike through the preserve as the summer season arrives. See what changes are happening as the weather heats up. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

Special Events June 3, 10, 17, 24, Homework Help, 3:30 p.m., 2443 Marconi Avenue, Sacramento. Drop-in homework help for school-age students is available at the Arcade Library from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Volunteer homework coaches will be available to assist students in grades 1-8 with homework assignments. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 3, Lego Block Party, 6 p.m., 828 I Street, Sacramento. The first Tuesday of every month it’s a Lego Block Party at the Central Library. Come build with us in Kids Place. Street parking will be free after 6 p.m. For more information, call (916) 264-2920.

June 21, Hawk Talk, 2 p.m., 10055 Franklin High Road, Elk Grove. Bring the kids to the Franklin Community Library for Hawk Talk with Jay Sheets. Jay’s program focuses on raptor conservation and what individuals can do to help birds of prey around the area. Jay includes three live raptors (hawks) and speaks about raptor conservation, identification, habitat and where these birds of prey can be found locally. Best for children ages 6 to 12. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 21, Wild Things Program, 2 p.m. 2112 22nd

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Calendar of Events Special Events June 4, Homework Zone, 5:30 p.m., 7335 Gloria Drive, Sacramento. Trained volunteers serve as Homework Coaches and Teen Mentors to students in grades 1-8, offering free homework assistance in all subject areas. This program will be held at the Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library. Adults and teens interested in becoming part of the Homework Zone team are encouraged to speak with the Youth Services librarian at the front desk. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 5, Journey to Bubble Land, 4 p.m., 601 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento. Join the staff at the McKinley Library for a spectacular show of bubble artistry, comedy, stories and music. You will see dancing bubbles, people inside of bubbles, and bubbles in the shape of dragons, whales and spaceships. It’s a show you won’t forget. For more information about this program, call (916) 264-2920. June 7, Catfish Derby, 6:15 a.m., Oak Grove Regional Park, Stockton. San Joaquin County Parks and Recreation and the Delta Fly Fishers will hold their 30th annual catfish derby. Over 2,500 lbs. of catfish will be planted. The derby is open to everyone. Prizes will be awarded in youth and adult categories. Kids age 15 and younger fish for catfish free at Oak Grove’s 10-acre lake. No

registration fee, however, a $5 fishing permit fee and valid CA fishing license are required for those 16 years and over. A $6 parking fee will also apply. Bring your own fishing gear. For more information, call (209) 331-2050 or log onto www.sjparks.com June 9, Vacation Bible School, 5 to 8 p.m., 3235 Pope Avenue, Sacramento. Are you ready for a visit to Gilligan’s Island? How about Surf’s Up Time where kids will energize and dance to some beach tunes, and navigate an obstacle course? Come join in for a fun-filled program, for ages Kindergarten through 6th grade. Activities also include skits, fun games, crafts, songs, and making new friends. And it’s free. Dinner will be provided nightly. High school and college age students will serve as youth counselors while adult volunteers will serve as mentors. For more information, call the Northminster Presbyterian Church at (916) 487-5192 or visit www. northminsteronline.org. June 12, Chemistry Program, 4 p.m., 10055 Franklin High Road, Elk Grove. Kids ages 6 to 12 are invited to the Franklin Community Library for a super cool science program. Science is amazing. Join the Science Wizard and learn all about super cool chemistry––melting, oozing, smoking, bubbling, foaming and just plain amazing. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 13, Surfing Magician, 4 p.m., 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento. Families are invited to the Belle Cooledge Library for

Dough Hofkins, the Surfing Magician. Experience Dough’s unique tricks, sleight of hand and cool illusions all performed from a surfboard table. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 13, Sci-Fri for Kids, 3:30 p.m., 11601 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks. Are you a kid who loves science experiments? Come to Fair Oaks Library, Fridays, for Sci-Fri. Each month kids and staff will make some hypotheses, conduct a group experiment, talk about what happens and why and more. This is a program best suited for children in elementary school. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 14, Yoga for Kids, 2 p.m., 10055 Franklin High Road, Elk Grove. Children ages 6 to 10 are invited to joing the staff at the Franklin Community Library. Bring books to life with yoga poses and sequences. Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a yoga or exercise mat if you have one. Parents of all attendees must sign a release of liability prior to participation. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 18, Lego Fun, 3:30 p.m., 11601 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks. Kids can come to the Fair Oaks Library and spend the afternoon paying with Legos. The staff will display your creations in the library after the program. For ages 5 and up, no registration is required. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 18, Juggling, Magic, Tricks, 2 p.m., 601 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento. Join the staff at the McKinley Library for juggling, magic, and tricks with Owen Baker-Flynn. Owen will amaze you with fun tricks, comedy and other goofy stuff. For more information, call (916) 2642920.

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June 19, Motorized Monkeys with Bricks, 4 p.m., 10055 Franklin High Road, Elk Grove. Go ape with Bricks 4 Kidz! Come to the Franklin Community Library and build a motorized monkey out of all LEGO components, and then you can monkey around! Kids work in pairs. Registration is required and limited to the first 20 participants. For ages 6 to 12. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 19, Ice Cream Social, 4 p.m., 891 Watt Avenue, Sacramento. Join the staff at the Arden-Dimick Library for fabulous ice cream and take time to sign up for the new Paws to Read summer reading program. There will be lots of ice cream and other special treats so don’t miss it. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 21, Teddy Bear Tea, 2 p.m., 2901 Truxel Road, Sacramento. Bring your favorite Teddy Bear or other stuffed animal to the South Natomas Library for a fabulous tea party. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. For children ages 0-5. June 28, Adventure Theater, 3 p.m., 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento. This special event is an interactive theatrical experience for heroes of all ages. Audience members make the sound effects, become scenery, invent plot twists and wear costumes. For more information about this fun program at the Belle Cooledge Library, call (916) 264-2920. 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 June 7, Storytellers, 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Bring the kids to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center for “Nature Tales.” Members of the Sacramento Storytellers Guild will share their entertaining tales of animals and nature. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. June 20 Puppet Show, 3 p.m., 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento. Join ventriloquist, Tony Borders, as he uses magic and humorous puppets to introduce you to some funny, furry friends. Meet a detective dog, a princess cat and a zebra named Spot. Don’t miss this show at the Belle Cooledge Library filled with laughs and many surprises. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 28, Storyteller, 2 p.m., 2112 22nd Street, Sacramento. Philip Hicks combines animated storytelling with comedy illusion to captivate and engage the audience. He breathes new life into the stories of The Three Little Pigs, Charlotte’s Web and other animal stories. This program will be held at the McClatchy Library. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. June 28, Shadow Puppetry Show, 2 p.m., 11601 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks. Come to the Fair Oaks Library and discover the magical world of shadow puppetry with Daniel Barash of The Shadow Puppet Workshop. Daniel will perform shadow puppetry versions of “Paws to Read” –inspired folktales from around the world. Program includes crowd participation, and audience members will receive shadow puppet templates to continue the fun at home. For more information, call (916) 264-2920.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

JUNE 2014 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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Hockey Theme Invitations • Invitations can be fun - cut out an glue a hockey puck to a card with party information inside. 
 • Buy mini hockey sticks and print the party information on them with a permanent marker. 
 • Make a team jersey card. Using cardstock cut a piece of 9.5 x 11 into two pieces each one 9.5 x 5.5. Fold over and trace a jersey pattern onto the card. Cut out

the jersey making sure to leave the neck attached. Cut and paste a picture of your favorite hockey teams logo on the front and write party information inside. • Ask everyone to wear their favorite team jersey and bring a hockey stick if you will be playing a game of street hockey. Decorations for a Hockey Birthday Party
 • Decorate the party area in your favorite hockey

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send out with the thank-you cards) and after they have played blackout a few teeth on the guests, mess up their hair and uniforms and take an “after� picture for fun.

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the most attempts to make a goal (10 shots). 
Give prizes for the winners. • Obstacle course - Set up an obstacle course that the guests will have to maneuver a street hockey ball through with their hockey stick. Set up cones and have them criss cross in between them, go around a tire, under several ropes set up 3.5 feet high ... and anything else you can think of that an obstacle course would have. Give the guests whistles and stopwatches to time individuals. These can also be played relay style with teams. When they are done - make them do it again only backwards.

team colors. Use streamers and balloons with colorful tablecloths. Set hockey Hockey Party Activities
 pucks and sticks around • Attend a hockey the room along with hockgame. Check to see about special birthday party rates ey posters on the walls. â€¨ • Make a penalty box out of and information. 
 a large box and have guests • On the invitation ask the guests to bring their roller leave their presents inside it. When it is time to open presblades and street hockey ents have the birthday child sit sticks to the party. Set up in the box and one by one let goals and mark the hockey the guests bring up their presgame area with chalk. If ent to sit in the penalty box possible ask a few of the local high school hockey while the present is opened. players to come and make Fun Ideas
 an appearance at the party • Purchase jerseys in two difand teach the guests a few ferent colors and iron on Hockey Party Food new moves. Divide guests letters to spell the guests into two teams to play or Hockey puck brownies - cut have them play against the brownies into circles with a last names. Use these while they play hockey - then parents/adults at the party.  â€¨ cookie cutter or cup, cupcakes let them take the hockey • Paint wooden frames before arranged in the shape of a puck jersey’s home as a party the party begins in your favor- and hockey stick or made to favor. Let them have an ite teams colors. During the look like individual hockey autograph session and auparty let guests decorate the pucks, concession foods: hottograph each others shirts frames with wooden hockey dogs in foil, popcorn, nachos, with a permanent marker. etc., snow cones, design a cake sticks, letters, pucks, etc. â€˘ Or print out their favorto look like an ice hockey rink ite hockey teams logo and Games for a Hockey Birth- or have your favorite hockey let them trace it onto their day Party
 team logo placed on top, jersey. You can find hockey • Hockey Contest - If you logos online. have a goal let the guests Party Favors - Ding Dong • Take a team picture for evtake turns:
*Most accurate cupcakes (hockey pucks) or eryone to take home (or - who can hit a street hockey Oreos, stickers, small hockey ball into a bucket from 20, sticks, sports bottle, jerseys, 30, and 40 feet away. 
*Best hockey pucks, street hockey blindfolded - blindfold balls, patches, hockey trading guests and see who can hit cards, cool colors of hockey the ball into the goal.
*Best tape, free tickets to league Goalie - see who can fend off hockey games

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • JUNE 2014

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