California Kids - May 2015 by Valley Community Newspapers

May 2015

Summer School, Summer Fun! High School Courses • High School Review Courses Arts Camps (Grades 5 - 9) • Choral Camps (Grades 5 - 9) Middle School Advantage (Grades - ) Science Adventure Camps (Grades 3 - 7) • Sports Camps (Grades 4- 9) Theatre Camp (Grades 5 - 9) • TV Produc on Camp (Grades 7 - 8) The place to be...

More information at cbhs-sacramento.org

Table of Contents Wordsearch: May Celebrations! ..............................................................page 7 A Note from the Nurse by Connie Goldsmith RN, BSN, MPA..........page 9 Who Wrote That? Caryn Yacowitz by Patricia Newman........................ page 11 Fun Gift Ideas!................................ page 12 The Book Report: Poetry Rocks by Connie Goldsmith....................... page 15 Summer Guide........................ page 16–20 Calendar of Events.............. pages 24–25 Parties! Parties!.................... pages 26–27

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FOLSOM MONTESSORI Preschool & Kindergarten Folsom’s first Montessori school... wonderful children and families have filled our school for 34 years! en House! h OpN 14t e n u J y a d n u S n 10am - Noo

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CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

Call Steve for ad rates 429-9901

www.valcomnews.com Publisher: George Macko General Manager: Kathleen Egan Contributing Writers: . Connie Goldsmith, Patricia Newman Art Director: John Ochoa Graphic Designer: Annin Greenhalgh Advertising: Steve Crowley 916-429-9901 Cover photo courtesy Kerstin Rollins

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 2015 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. MAY 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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Actor's Theatre of Sacramento Presents 2 Week Acting Camp for Children (Aged: 7-12) Monday - Friday 9am to 2pm June 29th to July 10th

2 Week Acting Camp for Teens (Aged 13-18) Monday - Friday 9am to 2pm July 13th to July 24th

2 Week Acting Camp for Children (Aged 7-12) Monday - Friday 9am to 2pm July 27th to August 7th

Each Camp concludes with a show on the final Friday of each. Cost per child &/or teen $350

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Sacramento Zoo Activities Missing Orangutan Mothers (MoM’s) Day Book & Bake Sale, May 10, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Buy some delicious palm oil free baked goods, a good book and learn about how Orangutans are excellent mothers. Also, learn about palm oil, the effects it has on Orangutan habitat, and why we should work towards buying palm oil free or sustainable palm oil products. Find the table near the Orangutan exhibit. All proceeds go to support Orangutan Outreach Missing Orangutan Mothers (MOM) Day campaign, an effort to conserve Orangutans in the wild, provide support for orphaned Orangutan juveniles, and educate about palm oil’s effect on Orangutan habitat. Stuffed Animal Veterinary Clinic, May 30, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Sacramento Zoo on the Veterinary Hospital Lawn Is your teddy bear feeling under the weather? Does your stuffed animal have a cut that needs fixing? We are here to help! A Stuffed Animal Veterinarian will assess the overall health

of your stuffed animal and make a diagnosis based on the symptoms. Exams are just $3 per stuffed animal. Repairs with exam are $5 and stuffed animals adoptions with exam are $4. Proceeds benefit Greater Sac AAZK. Sacramento Zoo – Wildly Inspiring!

Open since 1927, the Sacramento Zoo is home to more than 140 native, rare and endangered species and is one of over 200 accredited institutions of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Located near the corner of Land Park Drive and Sutterville Road in William Land Park, the Zoo is wholly managed by the non-profit Sacramento Zoological Society. This Sacramento treasure inspires conservation awareness through education and recreation. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm with last admission at 4 pm. General admission is $11.75; children ages 2-11 are $7.75 and one and under are admitted free. Parking is free throughout the park or ride Regional Transit bus #6. For information, call 916.808.5888 or visit saczoo.org.

Annual Theater Series at Fairytale Town

airytale Town will showcase a diverse selection of theater performances for children and families on the first weekend of each month from through August and the second weekend in July. On May 2 and 3, Puppet Art Theater Company will present a zany, updated version of “The Boy Who Cried Wolf”. The Sacramentobased Puppet Art Theater Company performs hun-

dreds of live performances for family audiences at theaters, festivals and public events all over California. The performance will take place in Fairytale Town’s indoor Children’s Theater. 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 fairytaletown.org or call (916) 808-7462. About the Shows Fairytale Town is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from March through October and Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from November through February, weather permitting and unless otherwise noted. For more information, visit fairytaletown.org or call (916) 808-7462.

K O H L’ S B U C K L E U P T O G R O W U P

Safety is Best! Wear your vest, every time you swim. A properly fitting life jacket will help your kids float safety through the summer. For more information, call 916-734-9798.

b u c k l e u p . u c d a v i s . e d u • w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / b u c k l e u p 2 g r o w u p

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

Discovery Museum Science & Space Center Activities

ach weekend the Discovery Museum Science & Space Center explores a new science topic through special displays, visiting exhibits, and guest presentations. These activities include craft activities for kids four to twelve years old and planetarium shows for ages four and older. • May 2 and 3, Saturday and Sunday, Weather Fun for Everyone, 12:30 to 4 p.m. In celebration of National Weather Observers Day, the Discovery Museum is having some weather-related fun. Learn about different weather phenomenon in the classroom. Make a shocking discovery with the lightening disc in the Space Quest! exhibit. Kids assemble a Bird-o-meter craft to take home as a souvenir. The planetarium shows are at 1 and 3 p.m. for ages 4 and older. • May 9 and 10, Saturday and Sunday, Mother’s Day- the Wildflower Way, 12:30 to 4 p.m. Celebrate National Wildflower Week and plant your own wildflower seeds to take home and give to a special mom in your life. Spoil Mom with a picnic lunch on the grounds and play tour guide leading her on the Nature Trail. Remember, your admission includes visiting the Space Quest! exhibit, Nature Discovery Room and a planetarium show at 1 and 3 p.m., ages appropriate for: 4-12 years old • May 16 and 17, Saturday and Sunday, Egg-o-naut Challenge, 12:30 to 4 p.m. May is National Egg Month and the Museum is putting a science spin on the celebration. Families are challenged to protect their eggo-naut from museum volunteers, who are dropping them off the second story balcony. Countdown and compete with other visiting families to see whose mission is the most successful. Remember, your admission also includes the Space Quest! exhibit, the Nature Discovery Room and a planetarium show at 1

MAY 2015 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

and 3 p.m. (ages 4 and older only). In honor of Armed Forces Day, all active and retired military personnel get half-price admission with a valid military ID. Ages appropriate for: 4-12 years old • May 23, 24, and 25, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, Patriotic Windsock, 12:30 to 4 p.m. It’s Memorial Day weekend, come and enjoy a visit to the Discovery Museum with a self-guided tour of the Space Quest! exhibit and Nature Discovery Room. Kids show American pride by crafting a patriotic windsock. Included with admission are planetarium shows at 1 and 3 p.m. (ages 4 and older only). In honor of Memorial Day, all active and retired military personnel get half-price admission with a valid military ID. Ages appropriate for: 4-12 years old • May 29, Friday, Challenger Learning Center Community Mission: Voyage to Mars, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost: $18 per person for members, $20 per person for nonmembers Ages appropriate for: 9 to 109 years old Experience the wonder of space exploration! The Challenger Learning Center Simulated Space Mission launches you on an exciting voyage of discovery. See what it is like to work for NASA while you perform hands-on science experiments, operate robotic arms, build a probe and support the astronauts from Mission Control. Live the adventure! A fun educational experience for families, friends, co-workers, club members and scouts. • May 30 and 31, Saturday and Sunday, It’s Butterfly Time! 12:30 to 4 p.m.

Photo courtesy Discovery Museum

Flutter-by the Discovery Museum this weekend and enjoy a bounty of butterfly activities. Using stereoscopes, you can view the fascinating structure of butterfly wings and then create a paper butterfly ring. Preserved butterfly specimens are on display. Remember, your admission also includes the Space Quest! exhibit, the Nature Discovery Room and a planetarium show at 1 and 3 p.m, (ages 4 and older only). The Discovery Museum Science and Space Center is located at 3615 Auburn Boulevard, Sacramento. Admission is: $8 adults (18+), $7 seniors (60+), $7 teens (13-17), $6 children (4-12), $0 children (3 and younger). The exhibits are age appropriate for 4 to 12 years old. For more information, call (916) 808-3942 or visit www. thediscovery.org.

About the Powerhouse Science Center/ Discovery Museum Science & Space Center Established in 1951, the Discovery Museum Science & Space Center is an exceptional science education and recreation resource for students, families, and all members of the greater Sacramento community. In our current location, the Discovery Museum serves more than 80,000 visitors, provides on-site programming to more than 50,000 school children, and delivers more than 300 “Science on Wheels” outreach programs each year. The Discovery Museum will soon significantly expand and transform to become the Powerhouse Science Center. This new campus will be eight times the current center’s size and serve as “a dynamic regional hub that engages and inspires people of all ages to explore the wonders, possibilities, and responsibilities of science.”

CONNECT-THE-DOTS AND COLOR THE IMAGE

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

Effie Yeaw Nature Send us your Photos! Center Activities

Free Weekend Activities May 2, Saturday, May Day!, 10:30 a.m. May Day marks the revival of life and the celebration of spring. Join a naturalist for a hike to see what kinds of wonders await you. May 3, Sunday, Turtle Talk, 1:30 p.m. Let’s shell it out and explore these amazing reptiles. Find out what’s underneath the shell, where they come from, what kinds live in our area and meet live turtles up-close. May 9, Saturday, Animal Tracking, 10:30 a.m. Search for clues of local animals on this informative walk. May 10, Sunday, Mother Nature Day, 1:30 p.m. Join a naturalist for an afternoon walk in the Nature Area. Discover what many of nature’s moms are up to this time of year. You might see turkeys, woodpeckers, deer and more. Bring a pair of binoculars or borrow one from the staff. May 16, Saturday, Birding for Families, 10:30 a.m. Bring the family out for a birding and nature walk led by a Naturalist and our special guest guides from the Sacramento Audubon Society. Birdwatchers of all levels welcome. Make sure to bring your binoculars, or borrow one from the staff. May 17, Sunday, Gifts from Mother Earth, 1:30 p.m. Learn the skill of making abalone necklaces to crate a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry from Mother Earth. Keep your gift for yourself or share it with someone special. May 23, Saturday, Just in Thyme, 10:30 a.m. Join guest speaker Shawna Protze, from West Coast Falconry, as she introduces you to one of the fastest animals on the planet, the Peregrine falcon. Once on the verge of extinction, the Peregrine Falcon populations have undergone a remarkable turnaround. Learn all about these fantastic fliers, their comeback, and meet Thyme the Peregrine falcon. May 24, Sunday, Snakes Alive!, 1:30 p.m. Come explore the variety of snakes that live in the Sacramento area. Is everything you know about snakes really true? Join the staff as they explore the truths behind many of the myths of these ancient reptiles. May 31, Sunday, Critters of the American River, 1:30 p.m. Reptiles, mammals, and birds are found all along the American River. How can you tell these three groups apart? Is it by eggs, skin or flight? Examine some biofact evidence and meet an animal resident of the Nature Center up close to decide in which group it belongs. Donations gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park. 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. MAY 2015 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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

May Celebrations!

ey kids! May is a month of remembering, celebrating, honoring our military and moms! Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day, Armed Forces Day, and Memorial Day. WOW! Here’s a puzzle that will test your skill at finding hidden words related to May holidays. Those on the list below can be spelled forward, backward, vertically, horizontally and even diagonally.

S A C A R A M L O D A N C I N G S

C N E F A M B X S R E W O L F A T

E Y C M O T H E R S D A Y O X R P

C N N H U R C H S E R V I C E T A

R O R O U S R E I D L O S T C H R

Amigo Brave Celebration Ceremony Cinco de Mayo Dancing Family

E I T X M U R Y R A T I L I M D A

A T F R B E A L U C G F N S L A D

M A B D O T R S T N U C G G M Y E

I R S D V O O E D F O I A A Y O S

Y B T G Y A P S C D O X S M R P M

L E N W U R R S E O R S E P I D O

Flowers Gratitude Honor Hugs Maracas Memories

I L R D D H Y M D X R B I P E G B

M E E Y N O A F O S T T R A L A O

A C I E S Y Y P S K B O O R S A E

F A F L O W E R S V R T M T C V B

A X Y G A A S E B I A N E I V E X

X G N G N H O N O R V T M E Z S Z

B E D U T I T A R G E S N S X L S

Military Moms Mothers Day Parades Parties Soldiers Troops

Make it yourself!

Handprint Magnets H ere is a fun way for children to display artwork on the fridge and it makes a nice little present for Mother’s Day.

You will need: White card, poster paint, felt tip pens, crayons or coloring pencils, scissors, craft magnets, strong glue, laminator

Recycled Glass Jar Vase

ith just a few bits and pieces, children can recycle a glass jar into a pretty vase with this easy craft idea. This recycled glass jar craft makes a sweet gift for Mother’s Day. The craft can be adapted for all ages.

You will need: An empty coffee jar (200g size is best) or other glass container, ribbon, stick on jewels (glass paints or stickers could be used instead), strong glue

You will need to: Help your child draw around their hand onto white card. Decorate the card hand with felt tip pens, paints or crayons in whatever way you wish. It is a nice idea to write a name on the front and a date on the back. Cut out and laminate. Trim the laminate to about ½ inch around the hand. Use strong glue to attach a magnet to the back of the hand.

You will need to: Wash out your jar, removing labels and all the paper from rim. Dry thoroughly. Decorate the jar by gluing on the jewels, using stickers and/or painting with glass paints. Using strong glue, stick a ribbon around the rim to cover the screw top pattern.

Mother’s Day Egg Cup Rubber Stamped Photo Frame T T his can be a very quick and easy craft, but giving her a handmade Mother’s Day egg cup will really make breakfast in bed special.

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.

You will need:

Wooden egg cup (blank), acrylic paint, permanent or semipermanent pens, acrylic varnish (optional)

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

You will need to:

You will need to: Paint the egg cup and leave it to dry. For a really quick craft, write on the word “Mother” or your own favorite variation, and draw on some flowers. Alternatively, use a tiny paintbrush and more acrylic paints to decorate the egg cup. You could even apply stickers or some tiny cut-outs from wrapping paper using white (PVA) glue. If you do, you should apply acrylic varnish to protect the egg cup and help it last longer.

Roll out your clay and cut out the shape of frame you would like. A ruler is a good helper for keeping the lines straight. 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.

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

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

A Note from the Nurse

Better Eating: Tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics By Connie Goldsmith RN, BSN, MPA

he rate of childhood obesity has more than doubled in children over the past thirty years, and quadrupled in adolescents. Today, more than one-third of children and adolescents are overweight or obese. Children who weigh too much suffer the same problems as adults, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, sleep apnea, and poor selfesteem. There’s no quick fix for being overweight or obese. Except for rare genetic conditions, it results from too many calories and too little exercise. Parents want to do what’s best for their children, but it seems the media is filled with conflicting advice. Who to trust? You’re taken your children to a pediatrician since birth. The mission of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is to attain optimal physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents and young adults. One of the organization’s top goals is promoting better eating habits for children. Take a look at some of AAP’s advice about healthier eating. Forget the Clean Plate Club Encourage children to eat only when they are hungry, and to stop when they feel full. Infants do this naturally, but too often parents urge toddlers, children, and teens to eat more. The ability to respond to hunger and to recognize the feeling of fullness can be a huge asset for children for their entire lives. With parental guidance, healthy children can continue to selfregulate dietary intake as they grow. For example, don’t make children clean their plates. There’s absolutely no reason to pressure healthy children to eat. Don’t reward children who clean their plate with more food, i.e., dessert. This only encourages children to after they are full so they can enjoy the tasty treat at meal’s end. Using smaller plates (a good idea for adults as well as children), helps to control portion sizes and the number of calories eaten. It also lessens the need for a parent to encourage a child to clean the plate. They are more likely to do so naturally when served less food on a smaller plate.

of which should be whole grains) and 20% lean protein. A serving of low fat or nonfat milk or other dairy product should round out the meal. www.choosemyplate.gov Recognizing that children are more likely to enjoy certain flavors in their food, the AAP recently released its whole diet approach to children’s nutrition. “A small amount of sugar or fat is ok if it means a child is more likely to eat foods that are highly nutritious,” said one doctor. Offer your child a variety of food experiences, while avoiding—to the extent possible—highly processed foods. Use small amounts of sugar, salt, and fats with highly nutritious foods to enhance enjoyment and encourage consumption. Examples include brown sugar on oatmeal, or a bit of salad dressing on cut vegetables. Eating at School An AAP study published in March 2015 found that children eat 35% to 40% of their calories at school. The AAP and other organizations lobbied for years to reduce high-calorie, lownutrition foods and drinks provided at schools. Over the past decade, the nutritional value of school meals has

significantly improved. Schools serve 31 million lunches and 11 million breakfasts every day. Half of the meals are free or low cost. Children from at-risk homes have significantly better nutrition thanks to school meals. The AAP says even so, there’s room for improvement in the other food children eat at school. This includes food sold outside of school meals (such as from vending machines), and foods brought from home or provided at classroom parties and sporting events. Access to these empty calories (for example, sugared soft drinks) is associated with greater body weight and decreased intake of much-needed nutrients. Parents, along with pediatricians, can work with their schools to further improve food choices for their children.

gymnastics, sit-ups, weight lifting; and bone-strengthening activities, such as running or jumping rope.

A Word About Exercise No information about improving nutrition or controlling weight is complete without mentioning exercise. According to the CDC, every child and adolescent should have at least sixty minutes a day of physical activity. This can include aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, dancing, and running; muscle strengthening activities, such as

Connie Goldsmith writes health and science books for young people and continuing education courses for nurses. She worked as a pediatric triage nurse on a 24/7 nurse advice line for several years. Her next book, about dietary supplements, will be published later this year. Her books are available at online booksellers. She maintains a health blog at www. conniegoldsmith.com.

Resources: American Academy of Pediatrics: http://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/TheClean-Plate-Club.aspx; https://www.aap. org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/ Pages/AAP-Recommends-Whole-DietApproach-to-Children%27s-Nutrition. aspx; CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/obesity/facts.htm Note: The information contained in this article is not intended to replace medical advice. Parents and caregivers should always contact their child’s doctor for guidance with any health concerns.

H a v e f u n coloring !

Look at ‘My Plate’ Speaking of plates, the government’s “My Plate” program offers expert advice on healthy eating for all ages. It encourages parents to choose the right amounts of the right foods for their families. An ideal plate of food should be half fruits and vegetables (heavy on the veggies). It should include about 30% grains (many MAY 2015 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Art Where Wild 5th Annual Promenade of Mermaids Things Are M

n Saturday, May 30, the American River Natural History Association (ARNHA, which operates Effie Yeaw Nature Center) and The Sacramento Fine Arts Center will present the sixth annual Art Where Wild Things Are, an art show, auction and gala celebrating interpretations of local nature subjects. This event brings together art patrons, philanthropists, artists and nature-lovers for what has become the most important fundraiser of the year for the Nature Center, a unique education and visitor center operated as a community service through a public/non-profit partnership. The evening gala will feature elegant food, beverages, music, and silent and live auctions with the charismatic David Sobon as auctioneer and Dave Bender as Master of Ceremonies, and Honorary Chairpersons Moni and Greg Kondos and Congresswoman Doris Matsui. Featured artists include David Peterson, David Lobenberg, Tim Collum, Gregory Kondos and Maria Winkler. A special segment of the live auction raises money specifically for ARNHA’s Urban Nature Program which provides free programs to Title 1 Schools from throughout the greater Sacramento area. During this school year, ARNHA provided over $23,000 worth of free programs. For many students, this was their first time to a nature preserve or even to the Lower American River. All of the funds raised by this event will allow the Center to continue providing science, history and environmental programs for adults and children year round. A visit to the undeveloped woodland and replica Maidu Village is like stepping back in time, and an up-close visit with the Center’s birds of prey can be truly unforgettable. The Nature Center has a special history in this community, and the support of caring people is what keeps the Center open and available for future generations. To learn more about Art Where Wild Things Are and to purchase tickets, visit the Nature Center’s website at www.sacnaturecenter. net or call them at 916-481-3848.

ermaids, mermen, pirates and all sea creatures are welcome! Come promenade on the boardwalk in Old Town Sacramento during Sacramento Mermaid Weekend, May 30. Pre-register for free at www.sacramentomermaids.com to be considered for prizes; for best costume for both adult and children categories. No need to register to promenade.

MerKing and MerQueen will be crowned by the Grand Marshal, Neptune himself, who is representing a local foster kid’s organization, Stanford Youth Solutions. Registrants come early for check-in at12:30; promenade begins at 1 p.m. and costume contest at 2:30/3 p.m. Immediately following the promenade, an all ages party will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. at 1016 K Street.

Experience some banjo-strumming

im Gill is a child development specialist and an awardwinning musician. He leads energetic concerts, playing his banjo while the audience claps, sings and dances along to silly-but-inspiring musical games. Each concert includes an opportunity for family play.   Come see what makes him special when he plays three concerts. • May 8, Friday, 4 p.m., Fair Oaks Library, 11601 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks • May 9, Saturday, 11 a.m., Central Library, West Meeting Room, 828 I St. Sacramento • May 9, Saturday, 2 p.m., Franklin Library, 10055 Franklin High Road, Elk Grove

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

Who wrote that? The Creators of Your Child’s Favorite Books With author Caryn Yacowitz

By Patricia Newman

“I

’ve always liked trespassing,” says Caryn Yacowitz. Open, unclaimed spaces tug at her curiosity and her sense of wonder. She recalls a childhood in the woods, building forts and creating treasures from dirt, rocks, and bits of branches. While her father attended college on the GI bill, she recalls playing in a community garden plot. Yacowitz dug in the dirt while her parents tended the vegetables that would feed them. They instilled in her a respect for nature. To this day, Yacowitz says, “I love all living things.” A gardener and an animal rights activist, the compassion in her voice leaves no doubt of her sincerity. Pumpkin Fiesta celebrates Yacowitz’s love of growing things and was inspired by a 19th century Spanish story. Borrowing a setting from her travels, Yacowitz’s characters, Old Juana and Foolish Fernando, call San Miguel, Mexico home. Although the story’s theme centers on passion for one’s work, Yacowitz also hints at her love for animals. Old Juana’s donkey and Foolish Fernando’s bull are not mere beasts of burden but beloved companions. Yacowitz began writing for children in her early forties

Caryn Yacowitz

when she teamed up with a fellow stage-mom whose children were also involved in a historic Palo Alto theater celebrating 50 years. “It was the oldest children’s theater in the U.S. for acting,” Yacowitz says. “All of the backstage work was done by children.” According to Yacowitz, she and her co-author were “feeling our way” because at the time they didn’t know anything about writing and publishing for children. They enrolled in a class on creating a nonfiction book. “We followed the rules from A to Z,” she quips. It worked. Onstage/Backstage, her first book for children, was published in 1987. “My parents were very generous, socially-minded

people,” she says, and by their example she learned to appreciate the languages and cultures of others. The Jade Stone: A Chinese Folktale allowed Yacowitz to “leap into another culture.” The kernel of the story came from a field trip with her son to the Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University. The docent stood by a jade carving, and in her description referred to a stone carver commissioned to carve a dragon for the emperor. But the carver did not see a dragon in the stone and braved the emperor’s wrath to stay true to his art. The book sent Yacowitz on a year and a half journey of “everything Chinese,” as she describes it—carvings, dragons, superstitions, history and more. The Heinemann Library series on Indians provided Yacowitz with another foray into diverse cultures. She wrote seven titles on seven different tribes: Comanche, Shawnee, Navajo, Seminole, Lakota, Inuit and Iroquois. Tribal experts vetted her work for historical accuracy, but Yacowitz describes the projects as “emotionally rough.” Drawing a parallel to her Jewish roots, she says, “I felt like I was living with the Holocaust every single day.” In spite of the emotional toll, Yacowitz believes the honesty of each title has historical value and value for today’s readers. Although Yacowitz lived in Israel for several years, taught

Hebrew, and participates in her local Jewish community, I Know An Old Lady Who Swallowed a Dreidel is her “first Jewish book,” as she call it. “Having a book from my own culture is important to me,” she says. “I get a lot of inspiration there because it’s so close to my heart.” Yacowitz works from her Palo Alto home, beginning early in the morning when she’s “fresh and well-caffeinated.” After the research and the planning for each book is complete, she writes a picture book story from beginning to end. Instead of tackling revisions immediately, she puts the manuscript away to look at it with fresh eyes a few days later. She spends a lot of time laying out the text in a dummy book to be sure the page turns give the story the proper pace and tension. Before each text is submitted to an editor, it must pass the

read-aloud test, where Yacowitz records herself reading the story and then listens to the recording. Like many authors, Yacowitz uses published children’s books to mentor her own work. Arnold Lobel’s Frog and Toad stories are perfect in her opinion. “I love the art, the gentle humor and kindness,” she says. Precious without being cloying, she describes them as “full of humanity yet full of fun.” Young readers will discover the same traits in Yacowitz’s books as she strives to help them become more mindful of the world around them. Patricia Newman visits schools! Her newest book Plastic, Ahoy! Investigating the Great Pacific Garbage Patch a Green Earth Book Award finalist, is now available. Visit her website at www.patriciamnewman.com for more information.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CARYN YACOWITZ Visit: http://www.carynyacowitz.com/

SELECTIONS FROM CARYN YACOWITZ’S LIBRARY I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Dreidel. Arthur A. Levine Books, 2014. The Jade Stone: A Chinese Folktale, reprinted by Pelican Publishing, 2005. Native American series, Heinemann Library, 2003. Comanche Indians Navajo Indians Seminole Indians Lakota Indians Inuit Indians Iroquois Indians Shawnee Indians Pumpkin Fiesta, HarperCollins, 1998. MAY 2015 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Fun Gift Ideas! Active outdoor fun with Nerf & Super Soaker! A Wholesome, Fun-Filled Major Motion Picture W

ith warmer weather and outdoor family fun on our minds, think Nerf! From sports gear to dart and water blasters, slingshots to zombie hunting gear, Nerf is high-energy fun for the whole family, perfect for BBQs to beach days. Here are just a few of the awesome Blasters, geared for ages 6 and up! NERF N-STRIKE ELITE SLINGSTRIKE Blaster- Send darts soaring up to 90 feet with the first-ever slingshot. .NERF N-STRIKE ELITE SHARPFIRE Blaster -This versatile 6-in-1 blaster lets fans choose the right configuration for their mission. NERF N-STRIKE ELITE DOUBLEDOWN Blaster - When battles heat up, fans can rely on the one-handed design. This compact blaster allows for quick reloads with one hand and will fire 2 N-STRIKE ELITE darts in a row thanks to its double tap action. NERF MEGA CYCLONESHOCK Blaster - This blaster unleashes MEGA power with a rotating drum so you can launch up to six MEGA Whistler darts without having to reload. NERF MEGA BIGSHOCK Blaster - Power in the palm of your hand! The one-handed power of the BIGSHOCK blaster sends MEGA Whistler darts screaming through the air. NERF SUPER SOAKER FLOODFIRE Water Blaster - Massive amounts of soakage await. For mobile battles, this high-capacity soaker holds 43 ounces of water, and can hit targets up to 38 feet away. NERF SUPER SOAKER ZOMBIE STRIKE  SPLATTERBLAST Water Blaster - Soak zombies with a blast that will send them back into oblivion! With four streams of zombie-soaking action and a light-up 35 ounces tank for nighttime battles, the SPLATTERBLAST water blaster is all fans need to take down the zombie hordes from up to 30 feet away. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and at HasbroToyShop.com. For more information and to view additional products, visit HasbroToyShop.com.

he new animated feature, Maya The Bee Movie, debuts in stores on home entertainment shelves May 19 from Shout! Factory Kids. Originally a German children’s novel by Waldemar Bonsels, The Adventures of Maya the Bee was published over a hundred years ago in 1912. Since the original publishing, the book has been translated into many other languages and enjoyed by children all over the world. Maya is a little bee with a big heart. She dreams of an exciting life of freedom, fun and adventure – the world is simply far too interesting to stay inside a hive. Her funny attempts to fit in bring her into trouble with the Queen’s narrow-minded royal advisor, Buzzlina. With her best friend Willy, Maya buzzes out into the meadow on an exhilarating adventure of self-discovery. While most bees believe that other insects should be feared, Maya can’t help but make friends with Flip the charismatic and eccentric grasshopper, Kurt the dung beetle and even Sting, a young hornet. But when the Queen’s royal jelly is stolen, it will take Maya and all of her bug buddies to figure out who did it and how to save the day! Movie presentation on Blu-ray 3D and 2D, DVD and a Digital Copy of the film. For more on Shout! Factory, visit shoutfactory.com Shout! Factory, LLC is a diversified multi-platform media company devoted to producing, uncovering, preserving and revitalizing the very best of pop culture.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

With more than 75 years of experience, Camps Ravencliff and Loma Mar make summer camp an amazing experience for all ages. Our goal is to have each child leave camp more confident, with new friends, and adventures they typically might not experience.

Youth Camps ages 7 - 13 Teen Camps ages 13 - 15

California State Pageants Photo courtesy Fairytale Town

Programs at Fairytale Town • May 2 and 3, Saturday and Sunday, “The Boy Who Cried Wolf,”12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. In this zany version of the classic tale by Puppet Art Theater Company, a boy is bored watching his lamb and decides to make things more exciting by turning on his dad’s wolf alarm, the “Wolf Alert 3000.” Tricking his dad is all fun and games until a real wolf shows up. Will the audience help the boy escape from the wolf? Tickets are $2 for nonmembers in addition to park admission, and $1 for members. • May 16, Saturday, Farms, Friends and Fairytales, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Join Fairytale Town for a fun-filled celebration of farm animals and agriculture. At 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. watch Fairytale Town’s Babydoll sheep get sheared and the wool spun into yarn using an old fashioned spinning wheel. Plus, participate in agriculture-themed hands-on activities, and visit with local area farms and organizations. This program is free with paid park admission. Fairytale Town is located at 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento. For more information, visit www. fairytaletown.org or call (916) 808-7462.

Preliminary Pageants: 6/13 - Sacramento, CA 8/29 - Sacramento, CA

Nationals:

9/17-9/20 - Sacramento, CA

(916) 524-7702

For more information, visit

californiastatepageant.webs.com

Like us on Facebook @ California State Pageants

Preschool & Day Care

Elk Grove Campus: 916-686-5029 Midtown Campus: 916-261-0796 West Sac Campus: 916-371-3301

Now Enrolling

caringconnectionchildrenscenter.com MAY 2015 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

ALS, M I N A C, MUSI ING, EN GARD A, ARTS DRAM ORE! &M 14

or f p u Sign s today! mp a rg C o n . u n F w to e l a t y fair CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

THE BOOK REPORT

Poetry Rocks By Connie Goldsmith

f you remember poetry as boring verses that you had to memorize in school, you should know that times have changed. Poetry comes as naturally to children as music. Even infants appreciate the melody of poetry’s rhythmic sounds. Poetry is meant to be read aloud, and it’s most enjoyable when shared with another. The best poetry uses words rich in sensory detail to explore new images and ideas. Poems come in all shapes and sizes. Take a look below: there’s sure to be a poetry book just right for your child. “The Death of the Hat: a Brief History of Poetry in 50 Objects,” selected by Paul B. Janeczko, illustrated by Chris Raschka. (Candlewick). This delightfully conceived and executed anthology could be a textbook for poetry 101, as well as a read-aloud tome for toddlers. The award-winning team pair up again as Janeczko offers the history of the world in fifty carefully-selected poems attractively portrayed by Raschka. Enjoy poetry from the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Victorian era, to modern times. Some names you’ll know: Shakespeare, Poe, Robert Louis Stevenson: “I have a little shadow that goes in and out with me, and what can be the use of him is more than I can see,” and Frost. The artist’s energetic watercolors instill life and movement to the poetry. “Poem Runs: Baseball Poems and Paintings,” by Douglas Florian. (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.) Newly available in paperback, baseball players of all ages are sure to enjoy this collection. The poems span the entire baseball season, from warm up for the first game to last game of the season. One poem features the catcher, another lauds the pitcher, and then there’s the slugger. “Our slugger is strong. Our slugger is mean, with arms very long and eyesight quite keen.” The right fielder can’t catch or run, but he knows how to pick daisies. Learn what each baseman does, and the shortstop and umpire as well. The poems are upbeat and fun to read aloud. Accompanied by Florian’s signature bold and bright illustrations, they are a joy to both the eyes and the ears. Another Florian favorite is born! “Otto the Owl Who Loved Poetry,” by Vern Kousky. (Nancy Paulson Books). “Otto is not like the other owls of the forest.” For starters, he would rather read than roost. He would rather make friends than hunt. But most of all, he loves poetry. The other owls make fun of Otto and he runs away through the forest. The sight of the full moon encourages him to write his own poem. It turns out that mice love poetry as much as Otto. Soon other owls begin to take an interest in Otto. He learns that poetry is best when shared with friends. The mixed-media art done in tones of blue, black and brown is engaging. The story celebrates the value of sticking with your passion, whatever it may be. MAY 2015 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

“Flowers are Calling,” by Rita Gray, illustrated by Kenard Pak. (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). This lovely book of is an intriguing mix of poetry and nature. Flowers are calling the pollinators—the bees, butterflies, and bats—with their nectar. “Flowers are calling a little black bear. No, not a bear! He doesn’t care. They’re calling a butterfly to dip from the air.” We see how a butterfly drinks nectar when it lands on Queen Anne’s lace. We learn how a bumblebee pushes its way inside a monkshood flower to reach the nectar, and how a hummingbird reaches the nectar hidden deep in a trumpet honeysuckle. Even night-blooming flowers call to moths in the moonlight. Beautifully illustrated end material provides more fascinating information about the pollinators for your young naturalist. The luminous art is worked in digital watercolors. “Over the Hills and Far Away: a Treasury of Nursery Rhymes,” collected by Elizabeth Hammill, various illustrators. (Candlewick). If you’re looking for the perfect book gift for a new family or a toddler birthday, look no further than this spectacular collection of 150 nursery rhymes. Some verses are well-known, while others may be unfamiliar. All are appealing and invite inspection of the art and discussion of the words. One of the features of this collection is the ethnic diversity in the verses’ source. They’re not just the usual rhymes that reached us from England, but rhymes from China, Africa, Latin America, and Trinidad, among others. An astonishing 77 artists illustrate the multicultural rhymes in a variety of engaging styles. This book is worthy of handing down to children and grandchildren. Detailed end matter contains a brief bio of the artists, index, and source notes. ** Reviewer’s

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.

pick of the month**

Five Things to Consider Before Sending the Kids to Camp The American Camp Association

pending that first summer at camp is a big step for any child. It’s also a big milestone for mom and dad. Sending your kids to camp takes a lot of thought, from finding the right camp to the necessary funds, parents have many decisions to make. But before the searching and the saving starts, one major question needs answered: Is my child ready for camp? The American Camp Association encourages parents to consider the following questions when deciding whether or not to send your child to camp for the first time.

The Phoenix Schools who is going to educate and care for your child. We are here to make your decision easier.

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1. Has your child had positive overnight experiences away from home? Children who have little to no experience being away from home for the night may struggle adjusting to daily life at an overnight camp. ACA encourages future campers to get “practice” spending nights away from home by visiting friends or relatives before they begin their summer camp experience. These separations allow a child to associate being away from home with positive experiences and learn to manage negative experiences in a healthy, independent fashion. 2. Is your child old enough for overnight camp?  ACA has found that a child under the age of 7 may not adjust to an overnight camp as easily as an older child.

Fortunately, a quality camp experience is still available to those children who may not be ready for an extended stay away from home. Day camp allows children to experience the same physical, social, and emotional development they would get at an overnight camp, while allowing them to stay close to home. Day camp is a great way to show children the benefits of the camp experience, and many take the next step to overnight camp. 3. How did your child become interested in camp? How much persuasion is necessary from you to send your child to camp? Does your child need extra encouragement? Or is there own curiosity strong enough to send them to camp? It’s not uncommon for some children to be excited about camp before ever having set foot in a cabin, on a hiking trail or in a dining hall. The experiences of older siblings, cousins, friends and even parents or guardians may be just what a child needs to inspire interest in a camp experience of their very own. 4. What does your child expect to do at camp? Learning about the camp experience ahead of time allows children to create positive expectations. Many camps offer visits for potential campers and their families. At these visits, your child can get a feel for what day to day life is like at See Camp, page 17

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

Camp: Continued from page 16

camp, meet staff members, and get excited for the summer. If a visit isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t an option, many camp websites provide detailed lists of summer activities for current and future campers. 5. Are you able to share consistent and positive messages about camp?â&#x20AC;¨Encourage your child to be excited about their upcoming camp experience. Your enthusiasm helps to ensure your child that camp is a positive place for them to be, allowing them an opportunity to experience its full benefits and come home excited about their future summers.Â

Every child deserves their own camp experience. Some will be ready soon; others may need a little more time, a few positive overnight experiences, and a little extra encouragement before

theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to spend a few weeks away from home. For younger children who arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ready to spend their summer somewhere else, ACA recommends anyone of the quality day camps available through the Find A Camp service. Whether it be a four week, overnight stay in the woods or a daily journey to a local community center, the camp experience is waiting for future campers!

About ACAâ&#x20AC;¨The American Camp AssociationÂŽ (ACA) is a national organization; 10,000 members strong, it is actively working with over 2,700 camps. ACA is committed to collaborating with those who believe in quality camp and outdoor experiences for children, youth, and adults. ACA provides advocacy and evidencebased education and professional development, and is the only national accrediting body for the organized camp experience. For more information, visit www. ACAcamps.org.

June 2015 6/15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6/19: Monday to Friday Sacramento State Tennis Camp (Session I) 6/22 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6/26: Monday to Friday Sacramento State Tennis Camp (Session II)

July 2015 7/06 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7/10: Monday to Friday Sacramento State Tennis Camp (Session III 7/13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7/17: Monday to Friday Sacramento State Tennis Camp (Session IV) 7/20 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7/24: Monday to Friday Sacramento State Tennis Camp (Session V)

All sessions 9am - 12 noon

| Ages 5 to 18â&#x20AC;°

To register visit abcsportscamps.com/sacwtennis Camp Sessions: $120 each !LL 3ACRAMENTO 3TATE CAMPS ARE OPEN TO ANY AND ALL ENTRANTS PER .#!! RULES BUT ARE LIMITED AS NOTED ON THE FOLLOWING CAMP FLYERS BY NUMBER AGE GRADE LEVEL AND OR GENDER

OFF TM

MAY 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

C Horse Ranch Home of Healing Pastures

Courage Confidence and Caring - English and Western Riding Lessons - Year round riding Camps - Vendors for Home School - Cancer Survivor’s Support Groups - Organic Garden - Birthday Parties - Riding lessons for all ages - 4 H and Girl Scouts - Field trips - Charter / Home school

Success in the Saddle and in Life

We welcome beginners and experienced riders of all ages.

530-888-7766

www.chorseranchauburn.com Like us on Facebook @ C Horse Ranch

11685 Lorenson Road Auburn, CA 95602

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RECYCLE

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Calling All Chocolate Lovers! S weet, satisfying and sinfully smooth. Get ready to enjoy chocolate in oh-so-many ways – drizzled on fresh and warm mini donuts, made into spicy cayenne cocoa bites or even dripping in dark chocolate balsamic vinegar paired with blood orange olive oil – during the first-ever Old Sacramento Chocolate Week happening May 4 – 10. Coordinated by the Old Sacramento Business Association (OSBA) with support by involved merchants and businesses, chocolate lovers of all ages are invited to visit Old Sacramento to experience a variety of delicious and delectable chocolate-related activities throughout the historic district all week long. For more details and a complete list of activities, specials and featured items, visit www.oldsacramento. com or call (916) 442-8575.

Photos courtesy Old Sacramento Business Association

PRESCHOOL ACADEMY Exceptional care in an academic-rich environment • Preschool & Pre-K • Infant & Toddler • Before and After School care • Transportation to & from school

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EST IGE

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+$150 Targe

• Enrichment programs all ages • Common core curriculum • Certified teaching staff • Security cameras throughout

Roseville 916.783.7700 1800 Eureka Rd. Lic. #313619779,778,777

Elk Grove

Natomas

916.684.4222 8160 Sheldon Rd.

916.285.7700 3100 Macon Dr.

Lic. #343615846, 847, 848

Lic. #343616168, 169, 170

*$50 off for 8 consecutive weeks. Before and after school care offer is $200 off at $25 per week for 8 consecutive weeks. New enrollees only. Valid only at participating locations. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Must enroll for a minimum of three half-days per week. Subject to availability. Offer expires December 31, 2015. Code 1215-400

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

• Annual Native Youth Art Show, through June 15 Art from young artists ages 5 – 20 from the United Auburn Indian Community, California Indian Museum & Cultural Center, and the Sierra Native Alliance will be on display. The United Auburn Indian Community School has a hands-on learning philosophy that helps teach children in pre-K through 6th grades key aspects of Indian culture and foster critical thinking to prepare tribal members to face future challenges. The California Indian Museum & Cultural Center strives to provide educational resources and support through public lectures and youth events. The Sierra Native Alliance offers a variety of culturallybased youth services including Indian Education, Youth Council/Leadership Group, and a Youth Mentoring/Advocacy Program. • “The Lettered Life of a Mountain Maidu Woman: An Archival Portrait of Marie Mason Potts” Exhibit, through May 9 Archival correspondence, boarding school records, and photographs drawn from repositories across the country document the uncommon life story, adventurous spirit, and political activism of Marie Mason Potts (1895-1978). This exhibit traces Potts’ journey from her birth in Big Meadows (now Lake Almanor, in Plumas County), through her youthful years at the Greenville (California) and Carlisle (Pennsylvania) Indian Industrial Schools, and into the final decades of her life, when she gained state and national prominence as a writer, newspaper editor, and spokesperson on behalf of Maidu, Native Californian, and American Indian cultural traditions and rights. • “Let’s Fix Our World”, Exhibit through May 11 Charley Burns is a Yurok artist from the Humboldt County, Klamath River area. He is an active participant in the cultural ceremonies

of his people. “Let’s Fix Our World” features his recent colorful pen and ink drawings that explore the relationship of humans to their brothers and sisters the plants and animals and asks people to re-examine who we are. • Campfire: Friday, May 15 from 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, Saturday, May 16, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Artists’ talk and opening reception for “The Great Basin Native Artists Group Show,” on display May 16 through August 10. Museum doors open at 6:30 p.m. Program starts at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be available. FREE event. • Rock Art Mysteries: Saturday, May 16, 8 to 9 p.m. Take a walk through the historic site to observe petroglyphs by lantern light - the best way to see them. Journey back in time and explore ideas about the purpose of these mysterious symbols carved in stone thousands of years ago. Museum doors open at 6:30 p.m. Lantern tour starts at 8 p.m., following the FREE “Night Out at the Museum” event. Fees: $6 per person. The Maidu Museum is open: Monday – 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 10a.m. Self-guided tours on weekdays. Admission Fees: $4.50 Adults, $4 Senior/Child, $16/Family of Four, $2 after 2 p.m. The Museum is located at 1970 Johnson Ranch Drive, Roseville. For more information, call (916) 774-5934 or visit www.roseville.ca.us/indianmuseum.

Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park Located on School Street off of Mission and Emmet Street in Santa Cruz (831) 425-5849

• Archaeology Demonstration, Saturday, May 2, 1 p.m How do artifacts give us clues to the past? Follow the archeological process from the dig to the display, and participate in hands on activities to discover the stories told by the artifacts. Presented in collaboration with the Santa Cruz Archeological Society. Event is free. Rain Cancels. • Building Methods at the Mission, Saturday, May 16, 1 p.m. Come and see how the oldest building in town was made. Look at the materials used MAY 2015 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

by the Ohlone to build their homes and then at the materials used by the Spanish to build Mission Santa Cruz. You will have the chance to get your hands dirty and make your own mini abode brick. The event is free. Rain Cancels.

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429-9901

2015 Children’s Summer Art Classes FOR ALL LOCAL YOUNG ARTISTS! JUNE 22ND THROUGH JULY 31ST, 2015 Learn basic techniques in Fine Arts & Sculpting: Drawing, painting, collage, pastels, printmaking and sculpting

Group “A” Grades 1–3

Week 1 June 22-26 Week 2 June 29-July 3 Week 3 July 6–10 Week 4 July 13-17 Week 5 July 20-24 Week 6 July 27-31

Mid-morning juice & snack break

The Maidu Museum and Historic Site Events

Group “B” Grades 4–6

Week 1 June 22-26 Week 2 June 29-July 3 Week 3 July 6-10 Week 4 July 13-17 Week 5 July 20-24 Week 6 July 27-31

Grades 1-6 Fine Arts Classes: Weekdays 9:30 - 11:30am Two groups: Grades 1-3 & 4-6 Tuition: $65.00 per week A different class each week - no repeats! Limited space - Register early! By mail or at the Sacramento Fine Arts Center. Registration includes all art supplies and snacks.

Come Visit our Center: We have ongoing gallery exhibits free to the public; art classes, workshops, art clubs to join that offer free day and evening demonstrations. We have many brochures and information you can pick up at the center!

If interested: Call the SACRAMENTO FINE ARTS CENTER 916-971-3713 5330-B Gibbons Drive - Carmichael, CA 95608 www.sacfinearts.org

5330B Gibbons Drive, Carmichael, CA 95608 www.sacfinearts.org

• Hides and Tallow at the Santa Cruz Mission, Saturday, May 23, 1 p.m. Come and see how Mission Santa Cruz participated in a world economy back in the early 1800’s. Look at some of the major products of the mission; leather and tallow, and demonstrate how they were used. You will see how a branding iron works and get to make your own candle.The event is free. Rain Cancels.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park Butano Located 9 miles outside of Boulder Creek on Hwy 236 at 21600 Big Basin Way. (831) 338-8883

â&#x20AC;˘ A Special Event! â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Tramp and the Roughriderâ&#x20AC;?, Saturday, May 16, 2 p.m. Mountain Parks Foundation, in cooperation with California State Parks, invites you to a living history presentation featuring Lee Stetson as John Muir, and Alan Sutterfield as President Teddy Roosevelt. This one time performance recreates the 1903 meeting of President Theodore Roosevelt and naturalist John Muir and their adventures in the early American wilderness, which would eventually lead to the protection of 200 million acres of forest. Each of these characters is feisty and opinionated, spawning both tension and humor on issues such as hunting, animal rights and forest management. Held at the Campfire Center. Seating is free, but space is limited. Parking is $10. A donation to Mountain Parks Foundation is requested. â&#x20AC;˘ A Special Event! Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Walk: Women of Big Basin, Sunday, May 10, 1 p.m. Celebrate Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day in the park by honoring the spirited women who lived in, worked in, and fought for the Basin throughout its history.Â Living history reenactments bring you back in time where you will meet pioneer homemaker Alice Maddock; Josephine McCrackin, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Savior of the Redwoodsâ&#x20AC;? and Harriet â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peteyâ&#x20AC;? Weaver, the first female Ranger. Interpreter Susan Blake portrays these inspiring women on this 0.5 mile, 2 hour guided walk.Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters. Event is free. Day use parking fee is $10.Â More information is available at (831) 338-8883.

SPECIAL NEEDS RIDING PROGRAM â&#x20AC;&#x153;Câ&#x20AC;?- Horse Ranch â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Healing Pastures Success in the Saddle and in Life

Our programs provide posiďż˝ve change for very special lives. Horseback riding is a proven healing technique for children with a variety of special needs. How does special needs riding help? The horse allows a person to be in control while riding. They are â&#x20AC;&#x153;in controlâ&#x20AC;? instead of being told what to do by teachers, parents, family members and peers. The feeling of empowerment has posiďż˝ve eďŹ&#x20AC;ects on physical and mental health. Students can talk with conďŹ dence about something they love. Balance, ďŹ&#x201A;exibility, coordinaďż˝on and sensory integraďż˝on are improved.

Our programs have been designed to be healing, educaďż˝onal and fun. At â&#x20AC;?Câ&#x20AC;?- Horse Ranch our parďż˝cipants ďŹ nd h3UCCESS IN THE 3ADDLE AND IN ,IFEv

Among our many accomplishments, we take parďż˝cular pride in many â&#x20AC;&#x153;ďŹ rstsâ&#x20AC;? that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen at â&#x20AC;&#x153;Câ&#x20AC;? Horse Ranch. These include the beaming grin on the face of a child who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t smile. The gripping hug of a child who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t trust. A ďŹ rst word spoken, or that ďŹ rst halďż˝ng step of courage taken.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Câ&#x20AC;?-Horse Ranch is associated with PATH (formerly known as NARHA): The North American Riding for the Handicapped Associaďż˝on. $55/hour Private Lesson $45/hour Semi Private Lesson $35/hour Group Lesson

&OR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT (ONEY #OWAN 2 . -&4 ,ORENSON 2OAD !UBURN #! WWW CHORSERANCHAUBURN COM

â&#x20AC;˘ Redwood Loop Walk, every Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. (only at 11 a.m. on Sunday, May 10), Monday, May 25, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Enjoy this fun and informative guided 0.5 mile stroll through a magnificent old growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90 minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Headquarters. â&#x20AC;˘ Campfire Programs, Saturday, May 23, 7 p.m., Sunday, May 24, 7 p.m. Enjoy the historic campfire center for an evening of song and story. Serenade the glittering stars and learn about redwood ecology, creatures of the forest or stories of the park while relaxing in the shadows of the towering trees. Fire lighting and marshmallow roasting (marshmallows and sticks provided) starts at 7 p.m. and the program begins at 7:30 p.m. Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Good dogs welcome. Meet at the Campfire Center. â&#x20AC;˘ Special Guest Campfire, A Visit with Pioneer Alice Maddock, Saturday, May 30, 7 p.m. What was life like 125 years ago in Big Basin? Meet Alice Maddock, a pioneering homesteader who lived here with her family in the late 1800s. What did they eat and how did they get it? What happened if they got sick? Hear Alice tell of life with her husband Tom and their seven children. Marshmallow roasting from 7 to 7:30 p.m. (marshmallows and sticks provided). Campfire program from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Good dogs welcome. Meet at the Campfire Center. â&#x20AC;˘ Family Discovery Walk, Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 24, 1 p.m. Join Docent Norm Beeson for a fun filled family walk and investigate the mysteries and wonders of Big Basinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s redwood forest. Discover what surprises the day offers on this easy, 1 mile roundtrip walk that lasts about 1.5 hours. Bring water, a snack and an adventurous spirit. Meet at Park Headquarters. â&#x20AC;˘ Sense-O-Rama!, Sunday, May 3, at 1 p.m. This an easy, 1 hour ramble with Docent Maura McNamara were you will tune into the more subtle sights, sounds, smells, and even taste of Big Basin. Come and enhance your experience of the forest. Meet at Park Headquarters. â&#x20AC;˘ Berry Creek Falls Hike, Sunday, May 10, 9:30 a.m. Travel deep into the heart of Big Basin with docent Bill Rhoades as you experience a wide range of habitats on this moderate to strenuous 7 hour, 11 mile loop hike. Wind through shady redwood canyons and climb dry ridges as you hike to the jewel of Big Basin, 65 foot Berry Creek Falls. Bring lots of water, lunch and wear layers. Meet at Park Headquarters. â&#x20AC;˘ Wildflower Walk!, Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m., Sunday, May 17, 10 a.m. On this guided walk learn to identify many of Big Basinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flowering plants. This is a slow paced walk with time to discover and identify plants, flowers and animals in the park, and allow for photography if you choose. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also visit several historical spots within the park. Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s walk is a leisurely 4 mile, 5 hour stroll that includes two chimney trees and a waterfall. Sundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s walk is a relaxed 5 mile, 5.5 hour amble that includes a chimney tree. Bring water and lunch. Meet at Park Headquarters.

State Park

1500 Cloverdale Rd., Pescadero, CA 94060, (650) 879-2040 www.friendsofbutano. blogspot.com

Â â&#x20AC;˘ Wildflower Walk, Sunday, May 10, 11 a.m. Celebrate Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day with a walk along the trails of Butano State Park with Volunteer Naturalist Scott Peden. This is a slowly paced walk with time to discover and identify plants, flowers and animals in the park, and allow for photography if you choose. Bring water, lunch or snacks, and plenty of questions.Â Meet at the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Visitor Center near the entrance station.Allow 3 to 4 hours for this walk. â&#x20AC;˘ Pioneers in the Redwoods, Saturday, May 16, 1 p.m. When California State Parks was starting out, new immigrants to the coast side were making fresh starts for their families. Although little remains of their homesteads, the pioneers affected dramatic changes we can still see today. Visit early pioneers lifestyle, hopes, and struggles as you stroll in the shade of the ancient redwoods. Join Interpretive Specialist Rosanna Petralia for this 2 hour, 1 mile walk back in time. Meet at Visitors Center. Â

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide â&#x20AC;˘ MAY 2015

Bird Feeder Project

H av e f u n coloring !

For more ideas visit saczoo.org

You will need: Empty 2 liter soda plastic bottle Elmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s glue 1 one inch diameter wooden dowel or pole, six inches long scissors twine or rope to hang the bottle wild birdseed

You will need to: 1. Rinse out and dry the plastic bottle. Under adult supervision, cut a two-inch, square hole about half the way up the bottle. This is where the bird will eat the food from. 2. To make the perch, cut a small hole for the dowel just under the feeder hole. 3. Insert the dowel into the hole, and glue around the edges. This makes the perch nice and secure for the birds. 4. Cut holes in the top of the bottle for a rope to be attached and hang feeder from a tree branch or post near your home. 5. Fill the feeder by dumping in birdseed through the top opening. Happy birdwatching!

Call Steve for ad rates 429-9901 MAY 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Tips for Selecting a Quality Preschool A message brought to you by First 5 Sacramento

great deal of thought and consideration goes into selecting a quality preschool for your child. Experts say that the most important component of quality preschool is warm, nurturing teachers and caregivers. Quality preschool also includes the children’s day-to-day experiences as well as safe environments in which children can engage in interesting activities. As you look for the right preschool, First 5 Sacramento recommends that you visit several different types of pro-

grams and bring your child with you when you visit. Trust your intuition. Continue your search until you find the right program for you and your child. When you visit, ask yourself: • Does my child seem happy here? Do I feel welcome here? Do I feel comfortable asking questions? • Do caregivers appear to enjoy playing and talking with children? Did they get down to the child’s eye level to talk and play? Do children get individual attention? • Do children appear to enjoy being together?

Are children playing and working with materials? Do children seem to enjoy being at school? • Is this an inviting learning environment? Are children engaged in activities? Will my child have an opportunity to learn about things he/ she is interested in? • Do children have access to various activities throughout the day? Can they choose what they want to do? (Hint: Look for assorted building blocks and other construction materials, props for pretend play, picture books, paints and other art materials, and table toys such

Photo courtesy First 5 Sacramento

as matching games, pegboards and puzzles.) • Do children have access to books in a variety of different areas of the room? Are children encouraged to look at books? Do teachers read to children individually or in small groups throughout the day, not just at group story time? • Is the room decorated with children’s original artwork, their own writing with invented spelling, and stories dictated by children to teachers? • Is it easy for children to use the toilet and wash their hands throughout the day? • Are children offered a variety of healthy foods for snack and lunch? • Are indoor and outdoor spaces clean and organized? Do children have opportunities for outdoor play every day? If you have said “yes” to most of these questions, it is likely you have found the right program for your child. For more information on accessing quality preschool

call or visit theSacramento County Office of Education at www.scoe.net or call 916228-2500. 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: 530672-8298. More information at www.first5sacramento.net or #first5sac.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • MAY 2015

Wilder Ranch State Park "%7&35*4& $"-- Located two miles north of Santa Cruz, on Highway 1 (831) 426-0505 May hours: 8 am to sunset

â&#x20AC;˘ Every Picture Tells a Story, Saturday, May 9, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The public is invited to participate in an art day event to experience Wilder Ranch.Â Make it a day of family fun and tell your story of Wilder Ranch by painting, coloring, sketching or photographing the nature, farm animals or historic buildings.Â Local artists will be stationed at different points of interest around the cultural preserve to offer demonstrations, techniques and advice to participants.Visitors are encouraged to bring their own art materials or they can use basic art supplies provided by the ranch, donations accepted.Â Participants may opt to enter their finished story picture into the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every Picture Tells a Storyâ&#x20AC;? at Wilder Ranch State Park Art Show, to be held at Wilder Ranchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Life on the Ranch Day, Saturday, August 8. Event is free; parking $10. Gift shop and food items available for purchase. All proceeds benefit the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and Wilder Ranch. Call (831) 426-0505 for more information. â&#x20AC;˘ History, Nature, and Scenic Views:Â A Tour of the Grey Whale Ranch Area, Saturday, May 23, 9 a.m. This challenging guided 3 hour hike will explore the natural and cultural history of

the upper hills of Wilder Ranch State Park. Meet at the Wilder Ranch parking lot.Â Bring good walking shoes, lunch, snacks, and water. Rain cancels.

â&#x20AC;˘ Wilder Ranch Coast Nature Walks, Saturdays, May 2, 9, 16, 30, 11 a.m. On these 2 hour natural history excursions you will explore the plants, animals, and geology of the spectacular coastal bluffs.Â Meet docent at the Wilder Ranch Interpretive Center.Â Bring a snack, water, binoculars, and good walking shoes.Â Binoculars are available to borrow.Â Rain cancels.Â â&#x20AC;˘ Wilder Ranch Living History Demonstrations and Ranch Tours, weekends, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., tour of the ranch houses at 1 p.m. Visit an early day dairy ranch and step back in time to the late 1800â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at Wilder Ranch State Park. At 1 p.m., join the 1 hour tour of the 1897 Victorian home, 1896 water-powered machine shop, and other historic buildings. You can also play Victorian games or bring a picnic to enjoy on the front lawn, visit the farm animals and see what activities are taking place on the ranch this weekend; You may learn about hand quilting, watch blacksmithing, or wood stove baking techniques. Call (831) 426-0505 for more details.

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MAY 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Calendar of Events Arts & Crafts

for clues of local animals on this informative walk in the Effie Yeaw Nature area. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

May 17, Gifts from Mother Earth, 1:30 p.m. 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Learn the skill of making abalone necklaces to create a oneof-a-kind piece of jewelry from Mother Earth at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. Keep your gift for yourself or share it with someone special. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

May 16, Briding for Families, 10:30 a.m. 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Bring the family to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center for a birding and nature walk led by a naturalist and special guest guides from the Sacrmento Audubon Society. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

Critter Events

May 23, Falcon Program, 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Join guest speaker Shawna Protze, from West Coast Falconry, as she introduces you to one of the fastest animals on the planet, the Peregrin Falcon. Once on the verge of extinction, the Peregrine Falcon populations have undergone a remarkable turnaround. Learn all about these fantastic fliers, their comeback and meet Thyme the Peregrine falcon.

May 3, Turtle Talk, 1:30 p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Bring the kids to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center and find out more about these amazing reptiles. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s underneath the shell, where they come from, what kinds live in our area, and meet live turtles up-close. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. May 9, Animal Tracking, 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Search

May 24, Snakes Alive! 1:30 p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Come to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center and explore the variety of snakes that live in the Sacramento area.

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Is everything you know about snakes true? Join the staff and explore the truths behind many of the myths of these ancient reptiles. For more information, call (916) 489-4918. May 31, Critters of the American River, 1:30 p.m. ,2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Reptiles, mammals, and birds are found along the American River. How can you tell these three groups apart? Is it by eggs, skin, or flight? Examine some biofact evidence and meet an animal resident of the Effie Yeaw Nature Center up close to decide in which group it belongs. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

Nature Events May 2, May Day, 10:30 a.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. May Day marks the revival of life and the celebration of spring. Join a naturalist at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center to see what kinds of wonders await you. For more information about this program, call (916) 489-4918. May 10, Mother Nature Day, 1:30 p.m., 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael. Join a naturalist at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center for an afternoon walk in the nature area. Discover what many of natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moms are up to this time of year. You might see turkeys, woodpeckers, deer and more. Bring a pair of binoculars or borrow one from the staff. For more information, call (916) 489-4918.

Special Events May 2, Book Sale, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 8250 Belvedere Avenue, Suite E, Sacramento. Friends of the Library book sale at the Friendsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Book Den store, just south of 14th

Avenue between Power Inn Road and Florin-Perkins Road. Plenty of parking. Gardening books will be sold at 30% discount. Store will be open during the warehouse sale as well as weekly on Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (916) 731-8493. May 16, Walk on the Wildside, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Beach Lake Park, Freeport. Bring the family to this fun event in Beach Lake Park. Live music, wetland tours, conservation exhibitors, live animal presentations and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hands-on activities will be featured. This is a free event and free parking. Take I-5 south of downtown Sacramento. Take I-5 Pocket Road and drive east. At Freeport Boulevard turn south. Continue two miles through the town of Freeport, past the golf course. Turn left at the signs opposite Cliffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marina. Continue until you reach Beach Lake Park. For more information, call (916) 875-WILD or visit go to www.wowsacramento.com May 23, First Festival, Noon to 10 p.m., 651 2nd Street, West Sacramento. First Festival is a free event held in Riverwalk Park on Memorial Day weekend. The event features local bands on three stages, face painting, festival fashion and accessories, food trucks, artists and crafters and more. No coolers or picnics allowed. You can walk or ride your bike. Parking on site for $7. For more information visit firstfestivalsacramento.com May 23, Ballet Performance, 7 p.m., May 24, 2 p.m., 2300 Sierra Boulevard, Sacramento. The Crockett-Deane Ballet Company and Deane Dance Center present â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Unicorn Fountainâ&#x20AC;?, an original ballet by Don Schwennesen. The performance will be held at The Center. Tickets are $15$10. Tickets at door or contact www.deanedancecenter.com or call (916) 453-0226.

Storytime & Puppet Events May 3, 10, 17, 24, Baby Storytime, Sunday, 12:10 p.m., 828 I Street, Sacramento.â&#x20AC;¨Bond with your baby and make new friends at Central Library. Baby Lapsit Storytime is designed to encourage early literacy development through shared reading,Â songs,Â games, and movement. Recommended for birth through 24 months,Â but older kids are welcome. In Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Place on the lower level.â&#x20AC;¨ May 5, 12, 19, 26, Baby Lapsit, Tuesday, 10:30 a.m., 2443 Marconi Avenue, Sacramento. Come to the Arcade Library for this program designed for you and your baby (0-18 months). Encourage early literacy development and parent/child interaction through stories, songs, rhymes, finger plays, and more. Stay afterwards (until 11:20 a.m.) for play time with age-appropriate toys and a chance for caregivers to socialize. May 5, 12, 19, 26, Toddler Storytime, Tuesday, 11:20 a.m., 2443 Marconi Avenue, Sacramento. Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, and finger plays, designed for children ages 18 months to 3 years. Join the staff at the Arcade Library for play time before the program (at 10:50 a.m.)Â which gives toddlers a chance to play with age-appropriate toys and caregivers a chance to socialize. May 6, 13, 20, 27, Toddler Storytime, Wednesday, 11:15 a.m., 891 Watt Avenue, Sac ramento. â&#x20AC;¨Listen,Â sing,Â play,Â c reate, and have fun at Toddler storytime program at ArdenDimick Library. Each week features either a craft activity or â&#x20AC;&#x153;stay and playâ&#x20AC;? time featuring developmentally appropriate toys and sensory materials.Â â&#x20AC;¨

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide â&#x20AC;˘ MAY 2015

May 7, 14, 21, 28, Preschool Storytime, Thursday, 10:15 a.m., 891 Watt Avenue, Sacramento. Lis ten, sing, play, create, and have fun at our Preschool storytime program at ArdenDimick Library. Each week features either a craft activity or “stay and play” time featuring developmentally appropriate toys and sensory materials. For more information, call (916) 264-2920. May 7, 14, 21, 28, Preschool Storytime Break (0-5), Thursday, All Day, 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento.  Belle Cooledge Library will take a break from Preschool Storytime throughout May and the beginning of June. Storytimes will resume on June 18 with a very special storytime in the park. Storytime in the park will be held at 11 a.m. in the Belle Cooledge Park right next to the library. May 7, 14, 21, 28, Toddler Storytime (0-5), Thursday, 10:30 a.m., 828 I Street, Sacramento Join Miss Caitlin at the Central Library for stories, songs, and lots of fun. The staff will provide a good time while building pre-literacy skills. Wigglers are welcome; no need to sit still.

May 7, 14, 21, 28, Toddler Storytime Break, Thursday, All Day, 5600 South Land Park Drive, Sacramento.  Belle Cooledge Library will take a break from Toddler Storytime throughout May and the beginning of June. Storytimes will resume on June 18 with a very special storytime in the park. Storytime in the park will be held at 11 a.m. in the Belle Cooledge park right next to the library. May 7, 14, 21, 28, Stay and Play, Thursday, 11:45 a.m., 5605 Marconi Avenue, Carmichael.  Parents and caregivers are invited to bring in 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.

Preschool thru 12th grade

Visit us on Sunday, May 3 at 11:00am to visit the Lower School (1-8) Classrooms & Farm Parent tours available for all grades by appointment. Call 916-860-2518 or admissions@sacwaldorf.org

May 7, 14, 21, 28, Preschool Storytime, Thursday, 10 a.m., 2443 Marconi Avenue, Sacramento. Children ages 3-5, along with their favorite adults are invited to Arcade Library for stories, finger plays, songs, and crafts in these free programs. Join the every week for a different theme.

3750 Bannister Road, Fair Oaks, CA 95628 www.sacwaldorf.org

FREE Admission 17th Annual At Once Upon A Child, we buy and sell gently used children's clothing (size preemie to 14/16).

We also buy Shoes, Toys, Equipment and Accessories. We pay cash on the spot for all items selected 1741 Howe Ave. Sacramento, CA 95825

(916) 488-8861

$25

Spend & get

$5 OFF

your purchase Present this coupon for discount VCN

MAY 2015 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Cannot be used with any other discount expires 5/31/2015

Saturday, June 13th Food Raffles Magic Show Master of Ceremonies:

10:00 am - 3:00 pm Entertainment Safety Demonstrations Master of Ceremonies Giveaways