California Kids - March 2016 by Valley Community Newspapers

March 2016

Table of Contents Make it yourself...............................page 4 Travel: Family Winter Getaway by Carmel L. Mooney..........................page 6 The Book Report: Nicola Davies by Connie Goldsmith.......................page 8 Who Wrote That? Picture Book Potpourri by Patricia Newman ................... page 11 Calendar of Events....................... page 12 Parties! Parties!............................. page 14

www.valcomnews.com Publisher: David Herburger Contributing Writers: . Connie Goldsmith, Carmel L. MooneyPatricia Newman Art Director: John Ochoa Graphic Designer: Annin Greenhalgh Advertising: Steve Crowley 916-429-9901 Cover photo courtesy Kimyetta Barron kimyetta.b@gmail.com • 916-947-9315 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 2016 by Valley Community Newspapers Inc. 2709 Riverside Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95818. Phone: (916) 429-9901. Fax: (916) 429-9906. E-mail:calkidsmag@gmail.com. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

• Celebrate the world around us

• Enjoy cultural music & dance performances

• Meet Zookeepers & Animal Ambassadors • Score bargains at the RECYCLE RUMMAGE SALE • Learn about conservation through crafts, games & activities

• And more!

Plan your visit:

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • FEBRUARY 2016

Sacramento Zoo Events for MARCH and APRIL Thursdays and Fridays, March 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 & 18: 9:30 to 11:20 am Little Peeps The Little Peeps classes are 2-hours long and designed for 3 to 5 yearolds with a caregiver. Each class will focus on a different theme and will include a mini-lesson, fun craft and other activities such as stories and songs to expand the learning. Little Peeps will also enjoy a special visit with one of our animal ambassadors. You may register for each class individually, or all 6 classes for a 10% discount. March 15: 9 am Member Only Summer Camp Registration March 29: 9 am General Summer Camp Registration Are you a Zoo Member with little ones? Give them the chance to explore the Zoo like never before. They will enjoy learning about the animals at the Zoo and around the world by seeing, hearing, smelling and even touching and feeding some of them. Dive into the world of animals and education through songs, games, crafts and other fun activities. General camp registration begins March 29th. Registration is limited and fills quickly.

FEBRUARY 2016 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Saturday, March 26: 10 am to 2 pm Nature Explorers Get wild about nature at the Sacramento Zoo! Thanks to a grant from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Zoo is excited to offer a new way for young nature explorers and their grownups to investigate the wilderness in their own backyard. Join the Zoo and the Sacramento Library the last Saturday of every month anytime between 10am to 2pm as we read stories, play and explore the wonders of the natural world with a new topic each month. Activities are free with paid admission to the Zoo. Saturday, April 2: 9am to 4pm Earth Fest & Recycle Rummage Sale It’s a party for the planet! Learn how to protect and preserve the earth with environmental, wildlife and conservation organizations. During the day, visit EdZOOcation Stations to explore animal bio-artifacts, come face-to-face with the outreach animals, or watch a variety of cultural performances throughout the day. Also, stop by the Sacramento Zoo’s last annual Recycle Rummage Sale and see what treasures are available! Why throw it in the landfill, when someone else can use it? Proceeds from the Recycle Rummage Sale benefit the Sacramento Zoo’s conservation programs

- locally and around the world! This year will be the last Recycle Rummage Sale at the Zoo. Sunday, April 17: First Race Starts at 8 am 36th Annual ZooZoom Walk.Run.Fun. Join the pride as thousands of runners raise funds to benefit the Sacramento Zoo. Are you as fast as a hare or as slow as a tortoise? Find out on Sunday, April 17th at the 36th annual ZooZoom from 8 am to noon at the Sacramento Zoo! The course winds through scenic William Land Park along flat, tree-lined streets. This 5K, 10K and children’s fun run is a fundraiser for the Sacramento Zoological Society. Don’t forget to participate in the second annual animal themed runner costume contest. Race fees include admission to the Zoo. For race fees and information, please contact Fleet Feet Sports at 916.441.1751 or visit sacramentozoozoom.com. Saturday, April 30: 9 am to 4 pm Star Wars Day: May the Forest Be With You Meet your favorite Star Wars characters without making a trip to a galaxy far, far away. Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras and pose for

free photos with the costumed characters from noon to 2 pm. Visitors will learn how animal adaptations and behaviors in our galaxy relate to the creatures from the Star Wars universe through stage shows, crafts and other activities. The animals will join in on the fun as they enjoy special Star Wars themed enrichment items throughout the day. Costumed characters are members of the 501st Legion, Central California Garrison, a group of Star Wars fans who contribute to the local community through costumed charity and volunteer work. Saturday, April 30: 10 am to 2 pm Nature Explorers Get wild about nature at the Sacramento Zoo! Thanks to a grant from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Zoo is excited to offer a new way for young nature explorers and their grownups to investigate the wilderness in their own backyard. Join the Zoo and the Sacramento Library the last Saturday of every month anytime between 10 am to 2 pm as we read stories, play and explore the wonders of the natural world with a new topic each month. April’s topic is weather. Activities are free with paid admission to the Zoo.

Make it yourself! Cup & Ball Bunny You will need: Polystyrene ball, Paper cup, White paint, White and pink craft foam, Pink pompom, Wiggle eyes, Glue, Pink heart or circle sticker, Pink pen, Double sided tape instructions: Paint the ball and the cup white and leave to dry. Glue the ball to the bottom of the cup. Cut two white ears from craft foam. Fold over a small piece at the end of each ear and attach the ears to the ball with double sided tape. From pink foam cut two inner ears and glue these to the centre of the ears. From white foam cut two paws and glue these to the front of the cup. Glue a pink pompom to the back of the cup as the tail. Stick the pink sticker on to the ball for a nose and stick on the two wiggle eyes. Finish off by drawing on some whiskers with pink pen.

Leprechaun Hat

ids can make this cute leprechaun hat for St Patrick’s Day - it’s a fun craft which they will enjoy wearing, too! Team it with our leprechaun beard if you like...

You will need: Large sheet of green card (A1 size ideal), Orange paper, Gold card, Sticky tape, Glue instructions: Fold the green card in half lengthwise and cut along the fold. Ask someone to bend the end of the pieces of card around your head and tape to secure. Place your cylinder of card on the other piece and draw around the circular end (it won’t be a neat circle but don’t worry, it doesn’t matter). Draw another circle around the outside of the first. Cut out the larger circle and then cut snips from the outside to the inside circle to make tabs. Fold in these tabs. Carefully push the circle of card inside your cylinder so the tabs sit inside. Tape the tabs down. You now have a top to your hat. To make the brim, again draw around the end of the cylinder on the remaining green card. Draw another circle around the outside (about 10cm larger). Cut out the larger circle. Draw a small circle in the centre and carefully cut this out. Cut snips from the centre to the pencil line to make tabs. Fold these upwards. Turn your hat upside down and balance the brim on the open end so the tabs sit inside the hat. Tape the tabs down. Cut a band of orange paper and glue around the hat.

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

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • FEBRUARY 2016

Bringing Home Baby Tips for helping your newborn get a healthy start A Message Brought to You by First 5 Sacramento

hether you’re a first time parent or adding to your family, your world transforms forever when you have a child and embark on a journey full of new joys and responsibilities. For families embarking on the adventure of parenthood this year, First 5 Sacramento offers the following tips to help prepare parents for the many changes surrounding their baby’s arrival.

Before Baby’s Birth Ease the transition into parenthood by taking a few steps to prepare for welcoming your newborn. • Pack a suitcase in advance to take with you when you go to the hospital. You’ll want to bring anything you think you might need to be comfortable there, including clothes, toiletries or something to read. • Get a crib that meets the latest safety standards. Newborns spend up to 20 hours a day sleeping – so you will want to make sure your baby rests comfortably and safely. It is critical to follow the ABCs of safe sleeping: Alone, Back, Crib. You can check product recalls and safety information at www.cpsc. gov or by calling the Consumer Product Safety Commission at (800) 638-2772. • Stock up on diapers. Newborns can use up to 90 diapers a week. You’ll want to have plenty on hand to avoid having to make frequent trips to the store once your baby comes home. • Have a “baby talk:” If you have another child, talk to him or her about the new baby and encourage questions. Make sure he or she understands how special it is to be older and help with the baby.

for pediatrician call Sacramento Covered at (916) 414-8333 or online at www.sacramentocovered. org • Breast is Best. Breast milk provides ideal nutrition for your baby and can strengthen his or her immune system. Breastfeeding helps a mother’s body recover from pregnancy and is also a great bonding time for mother and child. • For breastfeed support and education, nutrition and health education and food vouchers for qualified parents and children contact the WIC (Women, Infant, and Children) Program at (916) 8765000. • Install an infant car seat. California law requires parents to have an installed baby seat in their cars before they are able to take their newborns home. For more information about safely installing your child’s car seat call Safe Kids California at 916-244-1964 or online at www. safekidscalifornia.org • Include your baby’s sibling to prevent him or her from feeling left out. Spend some time with your older child before introducing him or her to the new baby. Ask friends and family to greet your older child before rushing over to see the newborn.

Bringing Home Baby

Baby’s First Week

Before leaving the hospital, you’ll need to take care of a few items to help ensure a healthy start for your baby. • Choose a health care provider and schedule well baby visits. Newborns should see the doctor regularly to help ensure their healthy growth and development. Looking

Your baby is not only new to the world, he or she is new to you as well. Remember the following tips as you and your baby get to know each other. • Bathe your baby once or twice a week. Bathing is another good bonding experience, but babies

FEBRUARY 2016 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

have delicate skin and bathing more frequently can cause irritation or dryness. You’ll want to give your baby sponge baths until the umbilical cord has healed. • Be attentive. Never turn your back or leave your baby alone, even for a few seconds. Changing surfaces and even small amounts of water can be dangerous for babies. • Always respond to your baby’s crying. During this early time in your baby’s life, you cannot spoil him or her. Crying is a newborn’s natural way of communicating. With time, you’ll learn your baby’s different cries and how best to react to them. • Build family bonds by encouraging your baby’s sibling to get to know the baby too. Encourage your other child to interact with the baby by playing with the baby’s feet and hands. Your older child can also help you pick out the baby’s clothes or change diapers.

Resources for Parents FREE Parent Kit – Call today! The “Kit for New & Expectant Parents” is available FREE to all parents and caregivers of children through age 5. The Kit includes a DVD packed full of valuable information, a board book for baby, an ages and stages reference booklet, daddy tips and much, much more. To receive yours today or for additional parenting advice and information on available local resources, order online at www. first5sacramento.net Learn more about Safe Sleep Workshops, free cribs, and car seat safety. Call

(916) 244-1900 or visit the Child Abuse Prevention Center website at www. thecapcenter.org. Online information at www.SacHealthyBaby.com including tips on healthy pregnancy and births, and finding services in your neighborhood. Get fun ideas on the First 5 Sacramento Pinterest site with over 27 boards of parenting tips—www.pinterest.com and search First 5 Sacramento. Need parenting advice? Call the 24 hour confidential Parent Support Line at 1-888-281-3000. These trained specialists can talk you through your parenting questions from picky eaters, tantrums, to destress tips. Looking for parent/community resources in Sacramento County? Call 2-1-1. With more than 3,000 referral resources, the 2-1-1 specialists can help you locate the services you need for your family. 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, a tobacco tax, to support programs for expectant parents and children ages 0-5. 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 in Sacramento County. All 58 counties have a First 5 Children and Families Commission providing unique local services for that county. More information available at www.first5sacramento.net, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Travel:

Cuero, Texas A Family Getaway Rich in History and Hospitality By Carmel L. Mooney

ess than a couple of hours from Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi or Houston lies the peaceful little city of Cuero, Texas, making it the perfect day-cation, weekend getaway, or excursion, next time your family visits one of its major neighboring cities. There’s so much to see and explore and so many kind and gracious people to meet, that Cuero is worthy of an extended three day weekend visit. But even if you can only enjoy a full day there, it’s well worth the effort. The Wildflower Capital of Texas, Cuero is an outdoorloving family’s paradise. The Guadalupe River meanders around Cuero and offers rafting, kayaking, paddling, fishing, and picnicking opportunities. We were so fortunate to stay just 1.5 miles from the river at Los Robles Ranch House, the perfect, peaceful,

private hub from which to enjoy our Cuero adventures. One of the most immaculate yet homey and comfortable vacation rentals we had ever experienced, we were in heaven with a peaceful, country porch from which to enjoy the local birds and critters. The spacious back yard and safely fenced grounds had a lovely picnic and barbecue area. We were thoroughly outfitted with a wonderful selection of wholesome family-friendly books and movies. The bedding was luxurious and nurturing in spacious, separate bedrooms. It was decorated with adorable wall hangings and decorations to make us feel totally at home in our little abode. And our gracious hosts left yummy home baked treats and snacks along with a complete breakfast in the kitchen. We could not have felt more welcome and pampered. The history is so fascinating in Cuero, that kids won’t

Photo courtesy Carmel L. Mooney

even realize they’re learning. Highlights for us were the Pharmacy and Medical Museum of Texas and the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum. The Pharmacy Museum was spectacular and is being beautifully restored. Depicting the early life of

Texas through generations of soda machines, antique postage machines, veterinary medications of the 1800’s, musical instruments and phonographs, historical novelties, and a whimsical collection of Chopper Hopper’s on loan from the

town historian Wayne Addicks, these are only a few of the things that will captivate and amuse visitors of all ages at this remarkable museum. The Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum is another See Travel, page 7

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • FEBRUARY 2016

Travel: Continued from page 6

town gem where visitors can nearly experience the thousand mile journey of men, horses, and Longhorn steer while gaining an appreciation for ranching heritage, Mexican Vaqueros, South American Gauchos, and American Cowboys. There’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic in adjacent George Bishop Park, after a few hours in this spectacular museum which rivals the Oklahoma City Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum with its spectacular, quality exhibits. You will want to take a driving tour of the magificent, historic Edwardian, Victorian, Mediterranean, and Craftsman homes peppering the town of Cuero, all richly steeped in historical significance. Spectacular historic churches with outstand-

FEBRUARY 2016 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

ing craftsmanship and heritage are found throughout the town and surrounding areas. Nearby Myersville, Gonzales, and Goliad are just a few neighboring areas that are worthy of a visit. Over 50 historical structures are on the National Registry of Historic Structures in the Cuero area. Much of Cuero’s unique and fascinating history stems from the Turkey Trot of yesteryear and you’ll want to spend some time at the at the Cuero Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau to gain a deeper appreciation for why locals are so profoundly proud of their seasoned heritage. 2167 Reamers from around the world are on display, from countless countries, as a result of historian Wayne Addicks’ generosity and mind-boggling knowledge and appreciation for local and world history. A local heritage museum, and other revolv-

ing collections and exhibits depending on the time of year, are also at the Chamber and Visitor Center, along with the friendliest and most helpful staff who will help you plan your Cuero visit right down to every detail. The town even boasts an impressive Performing Arts Center that is currently under construction. Shopping, golfing, birding, fishing, and dining are just a few other family-friendly pastimes to enjoy in Cuero. Eagle Ford restaurant was our favorite meal in Cuero but lots of local family-friendly eateries are available to try as well as authentic Mexican food. For delectable and healthy snacks you’ll not want to miss Cuero Pecan House for the highest quality pecan delights. For shopping, Cuero is packed with antiques and boutiques. Stop in and browse at the Emporium and

at Wagner’s Hardware but don’t miss the other adorable boutiques, wine, furniture, antique shops and kitchen stores. Christmas is a magical time of year to visit Cuero. With Main Street’s extended hours and Christmas in Downtown, a faux ice rink, an unforgettable, top-notch lighted driving display, Christmas in the Park, and an exciting photo opportunity to sit atop Santa’s Longhorn, there’s plenty to make your holiday happy and bright. October is the Turkeyfest Celebration and of course April is the Wildflower Month Celebration. No matter when you choose to visit, Cuero is a an absolutely fantastic family destination that will leave you with wonderful travel memories, another favorite place to revisit, and new friends to cherish. www.cuero.org

THE BOOK REPORT

Middle Grade Novels By Connie Goldsmith

iddle grade novels are aimed at the voracious preteen readers from age eight to twelve. Some of today’s best writing is found in these books. Check out the titles below to find one that will appeal to your child. If your young reader isn’t quite up to the task, the stories are ideal for family read-aloud time. “Playing Juliet,” by JoAnne Stewart Wetzel. (Sky Pony Press; ages 8-12). “By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes.” Beth knows something bad is coming when she can’t stop thinking about these witchly words. Even so, Beth is devastated to learn the new owner of the Oakfield Children’s Theater plans to close it so she can open an adult theater. But Beth’s only twelve, so what can she do? BFFs Zandy and Beth have plans to save the theater. Maybe if they can find the owner’s lost diamond bracelet, she’ll change her mind. Beth gets into trouble and loses her chance to audition for Romeo and Juliet—the last play before the theater closes. The stars align, Beth gets to play Juliet on opening night, and the mystery of the bracelet is solved. The author, with extensive theater experience, has written a lovely story, funny, and real. When you do the right thing, dreams can come true! ** Reviewer’s pick of the month** “Manatee Rescue,” by Nicola Davis. (Candlewick; ages 7-10). Manuela and her father live in a poor village along the Amazon River in South America. The people fish for a living and occasionally kill one of the remaining river manatees for food. Manuela thinks it would be fun, like catching a really big fish. But she

learns killing a manatee is a horrible experience, especially when it leaves a baby behind. Manuela and cousin Libia vow to save the baby, raise it, and release it back into the Amazon. Eventually, the two change the thinking of their entire community and manatee hunting ceases. Based on a true story, this charming book shows how even the youngest children can help change the world. “My Life in Pictures. Bea Garcia,” by Deborah Zemke. (Dial; ages 6-8). Squiggly pictures fill the pages of this engaging story because Bea chronicles her everyday life in a notebook. She draws and writes about her favorite things (dancing elephants, stars, flowers, and dog Sophie) and her not-favorite things (monsters, getting up for school, and her pesky little brother). Bea has lots to say—and draw—when best friend Yvonne moves to Australia and monster kid Bert moves in next door. When Bea draws monster Bert instead of paying attention to geography, the teacher confiscates her notebook. In a truly surprising and satisfying ending, Bert makes new friends and Bea’s teacher declares her an “Amazing Artist.” Humor and friendship make for a perfect duo in this first book of a series. “After the Ashes,” by Sara K. Joiner. (Holiday House; ages 9-12). This gut-wrenching historical novel is set in 1883 on Java, then part of the Dutch East Indies, where one of the world’s most devastating disasters occurred—the eruption of the volcano Krakatau. This adventure mixed with a coming-ofage story will capture the attention and imagination of more mature readers interested in science, history, and adventure. Thirteen-

year-old Katrien refuses to become a ‘normal’ young lady and befriend the perfect Brigitta as her aunt wishes. Instead she crawls through the muddy jungle collecting bugs with a Javanese boy. The world turns upside down when Krakatau erupts. The eruption itself, days of falling ash, and resulting tsunamis devastated the island and its people. Katrien and Brigitta are among the few survivors, and must conquer their differences to survive. Themes of love and loss, family, and friends old and new, are expertly explored in a unique setting unfamiliar to most readers. “Kelsey the Spy: The Curious Cat Spy Club #3,” by Linda Joy Singleton. (Albert Whitman; ages 9-12.) Meet the members of the Curious Cat Spy Club: Kelsey—spy specialist; Becca—animal expert; and Leo—covert

technology strategist. When these three gather to solve a mystery, adventure and fun are sure to follow in book three of this popular new series. The mysteries begin with a broken grandfather clock in the Skunk Shack (CCSC clubhouse) and an old photo of a little boy riding a giant tortoise. The next mystery is to discover who stole Kelsey’s notebook filled with other people’s secrets. A missing friend. A brother who disappears on secret errands of his own. Pets, mysteries, and a secret club – a perfect

combination for young readers. Connie Goldsmith (www.conniegoldsmith.com) lives in Carmichael, CA where she writes for adults and older children. Her newest nonfiction juvenile books, The Ebola Epidemic: The Fight. The Future, and Dietary Supplements: Harmless, Helpful, or Hurtful? are now available. Other recent books include: Bombs over Bikini and Traumatic Brain Injury: From Concussion to Coma.” Her books can be found in school and public libraries, and at online booksellers.

Connie Goldsmith (www.conniegoldsmith.com) lives in Carmichael, CA where she writes for adults and older children. Her newest nonfiction juvenile book, Dietary Supplements: Harmless, Helpful, or Hurtful? is now available. Other recent books include: Bombs over Bikini; Traumatic Brain Injury: From Concussion to Coma; Battling Malaria: on the Front Lines Against a Global Killer,” and many others. Her books can be found in school and public libraries, and at online booksellers.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • FEBRUARY 2016

C o p y t h e d r aw i n g a n d H av e f u n c o lo r i n g !

FEBRUARY 2016 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

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

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • FEBRUARY 2016

who wrote that? KIDLIT CREATORS WHO MAKE KIDS WANT TO READ Featuring Naomi Kinsman

By Patricia Newman

aomi Kinsman weaves her life around the creative process. Not only plumbing the depths of creativity for her middle-grade novels, but in teaching children and adults to find their passion for their stories. She started the Society of Young Inklings about eight years ago—named for C.S. Lewis’ and J. R. R. Tolkien’s Inklings group—to help children find their voices as writers. Naomi and I are represented by the same literary agency, and our paths frequently cross in the writing world. Her devotion to her craft is both inspirational and instructive. I spoke to Naomi by telephone to find out more about her creative process. Patricia: Is there a childhood memory that sticks out in your mind? Naomi: I was a very, very shy child. When I was in second grade, my mom took me to see a production of Annie, and I saw this little girl up on stage and she was exuberant and boisterous and I wanted that opportunity to try on a different personality. Around the same time our school was doing a musical called “Totally Buggy.” There was this character, a ladybug, who had this beautiful jazzy solo. I had my heart set on being the ladybug, but I couldn’t bring myself to audition. I admitted to my friend that I wanted the part. She got me to sing while we were alone on the swings. “The wind will be so loud I won’t be able to hear you,” she said. We did that day after day, and we got louder and louder. One day in class the girl who was the ladybug was sick, and the teacher asked for volunteers. Somehow I raised my hand. Everyone looked at me. No one thought I would do it, but I sang. I remember hearing my own voice in my ears, having my class look at me, and saying to myself you can do the impossible thing.

Naomi Kinsman

P: Do those same hopes and dreams from childhood appear in your stories today? N: One theme I see running through everything that I write is how creativity helps us see the world at a deeper level. In the first Sadie book [Shades of Truth], Sadie learns to draw and to really see the world around her, and through that she asks questions about right and wrong and what she believes. Doing something so joyful—singing, acting, writing, drawing—is an expression of how we see the world, putting our thoughts and opinions out there. When you’re able to express your feelings and put them into a shape and form that someone can see, you have the potential to help change them or change a problem in your community. There are all sorts of possibilities! P: Do you have a source of inspiration? N: I think my biggest source of inspiration is other media. This week even though my next book’s deadline was looming, I took this mixed media art class where we did a project using different tools to build up the paint layer by layer by layer. It was so soothing to me because I was in the middle of this process feeling like my book hadn’t fully come into its own yet and I was a week away from my deadline. The process of layering [the paint] helped me see that art happens in

FEBRUARY 2016 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

layers. It’s okay if you can’t see it, or if it hasn’t quite gotten there yet because it needs a couple more layers. Many things like that come to me because I go off and play the guitar or work on a show or sing—I do something different which helps me return to my writing with fresh eyes. P: How have ideas led to complete books? N: For me it’s a little like a stewpot filled with ingredients that simmer together before I have a book. I often start with too few ideas, so I have to throw more in. For the first Sadie book I had the idea of a girl drawing to explore her world, and her dad would be involved in some sort of mediation in the community involving wild bears that she would watch him handle. The book, set outside of Yellowstone National Park, wasn’t fully gelling for me. At this time my husband and I spent a long weekend with a black bear researcher studying bear behavior in the forest. The researcher told stories about bears and his own community, and I was able to layer in that last piece of the story which grew out of the emotional reality of the researcher’s world. For me, I probably start a book before I have all of what I need, but I let what’s going on in my life inform it until I get to the point where it feels rich enough to be a book. P: How does the Society of Young Inklings relate to

your bigger picture as an author? N: As I watched the business grow and evolve and become its own organization, I realized that my personal mission is about helping everyone be creative. I felt myself growing as a writer. In particular right now I’m very interested in how learning how to write and tell stories helps change how we see our own stories. For instance, if I can write a story with a character who makes choices and those choices affect the outcome of the story, then I start to realize how much power

there is in those daily decisions as a writer. And I start to see it in my own life, too. I’ve seen it happen with children and other adults. I see a lot of power for transformation. Patricia Newman visits schools! Her newest book, Ebola: Fears and Facts, is on Booklist’s Editors’ Choice List and is a California Reading Association Eureka! Silver Honor book for excellence in nonfiction. Additional books include Plastic, Ahoy! Investigating the Great Pacific Garbage Patch winner of the Green Earth Book Award. Visit her at patriciamnewman. com for more information.

LEARN MORE ABOUT NAOMI KINSMAN Visit:...http://naomikinsman.com/....

SELECTIONS FROM

NAOMI KINSMAN’S LIBRARY Glimmer Girls series (collaborating with Natalie Grant) London Art Chase, Zonderkidz,.2016. A Dolphin Wish, Zonderkidz,.2016. From Sadie’s Sketchbook series Shades of Truth, Zonderkidz,.2011. Flickering Hope, Zonderkidz,.2011. Waves of Light, Zonderkidz,.2012. Brilliant Hues, Zonderkidz,.2012. Spilled Ink (a young writer’s activity guide), Society.of.Young. Inklings,.2008. For Teachers Writerly Play: Transform Your Teaching with Game-Based Strategies and Tools, 2015.

UPCOMING Glimmer Girls series #3 (collaborating with Natalie Grant): Miracle in Music City, Zonderkidz,.August.2016.

Effie Yeaw Nature Center

St Patrick’s Day Word Search

California Avenue and Tarshes Drive, Carmichael, CA 916-4894918 - www.sacnaturecenter.net

March 2016 Bird and Breakfast Weekend! Traditional Event Saturday, March 19th and Family-Friendly Event Sunday, March 20th

emerald

gold

green

ireland

leprechaun

lucky

parade

patrick

pot

Nature of Things Speaker Series: Beginning Birding with Rich Howard, Spring Edition: Lecture- 3/21. 3/28, 4/4, 4/11. Field Study- 4/2, 4/16. Pricing $50-$80. See SacNatureCenter.net for details. Under the Oaks Day Camps during Spring Break – Sign up early for delightful outdoor programs for kids aged 5 – 11, March 21 – 24. Different camps each day of the week! Information and registration at www.SacNatureCenter.net

FREE WEEKEND ACTIVITIES Donations gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members) Saturday the 5th at 10:30 AM – Flutter by Butterfly: Explore the lifecycle of the butterfly and discover their world as we hike through the preserve. Keep your eye out for one of our common butterflies, the beautiful Pipevine Swallowtail. Sunday the 6th at 1:30 PM – Leapin’ Lizards! Do lizards really leap? What do they eat? Join us as we explore the world of these scaly creatures! Saturday the 12th at 10:30 AM – Hop, Leap, Jump: Hop on over for a hare raising good time. Join a Naturalist for a hike and discover where a rabbit would make a nest, hide from danger or find a tasty plant to eat. Sunday the 13th at 1:30 PM – Seeing Green! The rain has come and the preserve is green! Hit the trails in this lush landscape in search of all things loving green. Saturday the 19th at 10:30 PM- B&B NO PROGRAM

rainbow

saint

shamrock

Sunday the 20st at 1:30 PM – Creature Feature: Meet some of the animal residents at the Nature Center up close. Learn about each of their unique journeys and how they became an educational ambassador for the Nature Center.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • FEBRUARY 2016

Carmichael Mom named to 2016 Disney Parks Moms Panel

iki Wong Yee of Carmichael is now part of the 2016 Disney Parks Moms Panel. Kiki has been selected from thousands of applicants to join the prestigious 2016 Disney Parks Moms Panel as a Disneyland Resort specialist. Originally from Sacramento, the mother of two and pediatric nurse is one of ten new members added to this year’s Moms Panel, where she will be responsible for assisting prospective Disney guests as they plan a memorable Disney vacation. About the Disney Parks Moms Panel The Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online forum where guests can get tips and insights for a Disney vacation from real moms, dads and grandparents who have mastered the art of planning Disney vacations. Guests can pose questions to the panelists in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, as well as gain access to other vacationplanning tools for booking a Disney vacation. Featuring just 12 members during its inaugural year in 2008, the panel now boasts 40 parksavvy panelists as a result of the popularity of the site and an ever-growing number of questions submitted by curious parents. For more information and to meet the panelists, visit www.disneyparksmomspanel.com. Disney Parks officially announced the ten newest members to its 2016 Disney Parks Moms Panel, plus a newly designed website that promises to lend fresh insights and improved accessibility for future guests. Ushering in a new era for the celebrated online forum, this year’s newcomers are as diverse as Disney Parks’ own culturally rich visitors with bilingual parents, single moms, dads, grandparents, and those with special needs children – all eager to share their trip planning expertise and passion for Disney with like-minded families. Now in its ninth year, the Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online resource to help guests with their Disney vacation planning using the personal opinions, expertise

and relatable experiences of everyday parents and grandparents. With just the click of a mouse or touch screen device, travelers have access to a wide-array of enthusiastic panelists who can share advice on how to maximize their future stay and create lifelong family memories. The multilingual resource, offered in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese, can accommodate every Disney trip-planning inquiry imaginable – from the best fireworks viewing spots, tips for traveling with large families and ideal booking windows for popular restaurants, to special dietary dining options, cruise ship itineraries and on-property hotel offerings. In addition to being wellversed in so many Disney Destinations’ amenities available, all of the panelists are genuine, friendly and excited to share their expertise with others, putting fellow parents at ease during the often stressful and overwhelming process of planning a vacation. Originally created with a specific focus on the Walt Disney World Resort, the Disney Parks Moms Panel has since grown to include members with extensive knowledge of every other unique Disney property and offering, which also includes Disneyland Resort, Disney Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney, Disney

FEBRUARY 2016 • CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Cruise Line, runDisney and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Among the most eagerly awaited aspects of the 2016 Disney Parks Moms Panel is the arrival of a refreshed consumer website, slated to launch later this winter. Featuring a sleek new design layout and improved functionality for better user navigation, the mobile-device optimized site will make it easier for guests to plan an unforgettable Disney vacation at home or on-the-go. Specific updates to the website includes a new topic search structure that will provide guests with easy access to more than 150,000 questions asked by previous visitors and answered by the knowledgeable panelists. With the new feature, guests can quickly sort and filter through tagged topics and find relevant content; and as always, visitors can get their own questions answered using the “Ask a Question” feature. In true Disney style, the website will reflect a sense of community by showcasing trending topics and most popular topics, allowing families to learn from each other’s past experiences and inspire the creation of new memories. “2016 is poised to be an exciting and transformative year for the Disney Parks Moms Panel,” said Leanne O’Regan, director of public relations for Disney Parks. “Not only are we welcoming

ten motivated and diverse professionals to our esteemed forum, but we are also preparing to debut a new website experience in the coming months, streamlining the trip planning process and paving the way for what should be the most magical time of our guests’ lives.” In September 2015, thousands of hopeful parents worldwide vied for a spot on the coveted Panel, making it the second largest pool of submissions since the program’s inception nearly a decade ago. Following three rounds of interviews, essays and video submissions, a strong group of ten passionate parents and grandparents

– including university professors, a physician and nurse, event planner, and an Information Technician specialist – were selected to join the respected forum. Since 2008, more than 130 experienced parents have served on the Disney Parks Moms Panel helping in the planning process for tens of thousands of Disney vacation guests. To learn more about the Disney Parks Moms Panel and meet the newest panelists, please visit http://disneyparksmomspanel. disney.go.com/. For those interested in joining next year’s panel, application details will be posted on the website in the summer of 2016.

Plus… Many Other Costume Characters!

Parties!

Penguin Party Ideas WWW.BiRThDAYPARTYiDEAS4KiDS.COM

hill out with these fun Penguin themed birthday ideas and games. A penguin themed party is perfect for kids of all ages and can be held at any time of the year. Penguin invitation ideas Make snowflakes by cutting blue or white paper into snowflake shapes and then write information on the back. Black and white tuxedo cards. Print out party information on a small card and attach to

black bow ties. Ask party guests to wear the Penguin ties to the party. Penguin Decoration ideas You can decorate a Penguin birthday party several different ways. Use black and white for everything, decorate in whites and blues to look like snow or combine the two. Make the front yard look like an iceberg by spray painting large cardboard boxes or hay bales white and stacking them around the front of the party

Parties!

venue. Make penguin foot prints from orange or black paper and tape then to the path leading to the party venue ... or simply draw them on the sidewalk with sidewalk chalk. Snowflakes can be bought or made and hung from the trees and taped to windows and the doors of the party entrance. Place cotton batting around the Penguin party area to look like snow drifts. The party table can be made to look like it’s covered in snow by using a white tablecloth and cotton batting for snow drifts. Or decorate in white and black to match the penguin colors. Place small silver dishes filled with sugar cubes (ice cubes!) and have the birthday guests place them in their Kool-Aid (serve non sweetened Kool-Aid). Penguin Party Games Penguin Relay Kids race to see who’s team can complete a course while walking / running with a balloon between their knees.

Parties!

Divide guests into two teams and have them line up at the starting point. On the other side of the game area set up orange cones or chairs to mark where they need to run to (and around) before they run back to their team. They then hand the balloon off to the next person on their team and so on until everyone has had a turn. First team with all of their “penguins” across the finish line wins. If they drop the balloon they must return to the starting line and begin again. Tip: Blow up several balloons for each team in case they pop. Penguin island hop Kids have to hop from one end of the room to the other and back using only pieces of a rozen island. You will need shapes cut from blue poster board that are large and look like islands. You will need one more per team then the number of kids on that team. Line the kids up in their teams and give them their island pieces. They have to lay the pieces on the

Parties!

floor (the ocean) in a straight line towards the other end of the room and they each have to hop onto an island piece. The leader will put down an island piece, hop on it, then put down another piece in front of them, hop onto it and so on while their team is hopping onto the pieces behind them as they move up the line. When they are standing on their last piece they take the piece from the back of the line and hand it down the line to the front. The leader puts down the piece in front of them and they all hop up one space. Then they continue moving a piece from the back to the front until they have completed the relay. First team across the finish line wins! Penguin Party Food Brownies Black and white cookies Oreos Marshmallow sprinkle skewers - Skewer a large marshmallow on the end of a wooden skewer and dip one of the ends of the marshmallow in water. Shake off the excess water and then roll the marshmallow in a dish of sprinkles. So cute!! Penguin Party Favors Black and white nail polish Hershey’s striped chocolate kisses Penguin necklaces Penguin bracelets or earrings Popcorn balls Penguin Goody / Loot Bag Ideas Large black and white mugs Black and white patterned fabric or black and white penguin printed bandanas ... wrap up party favors in a square of material and tie the ends together. Then tie black and white curling ribbon or raffia in a bow at the tied ends.

CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide • FEBRUARY 2016

Parties!

Garden Party Ideas www.birthdaypartyideas4kids.com

un ideas that will bring the garden to life for your party guests. Garden themed games and activities along with decorations, favors, invitations and more. Garden theme birthday party ideas for kids. Garden birthday party ideas for kids Garden Party Invitation Ideas Attach a small card or postcard with the birthday information on it to an artificial flower with a pretty ribbon. Print party information on large labels and stick onto the back of seed packets. Ask guests to bring the seeds with them and set up a seed planting station with small terra cotta pots and soil where they can plant their seeds and take them home as a favor. Garden Party Decorations Decorate the party table in bright colors such as yellow, pink, orange, blue and green. Buy large yellow plates and set them out on the party table at everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s place. Underneath the plate place a colorful doily that is larger then the plate to look like petals of a flower. Line the walkway with lots of flowers and greenery. Or make a balloon garden by twisting colorful balloons into flowers and using a green balloon to twist into the stem and leaves. Tie them to stakes and place them along the path to the party. Decorate the party table with flowers in different colorful pots. Utensils and snack foods can be set out in new terra cotta pots with a bright ribbon tied around them. Small wheelbarrows and buckets can be used also. Garden Party Activity Ideas Garden Scavenger Hunt A Garden Scavenger Hunt is fun for all ages! Give the party guests a list of items to find, a plastic baggie and a spoon and send them off to explore the garden. For

complete directions see our Nature Scavenger Hunt also includes a free sample item list. Make it a Tea Party Set out a lovely Tea Party in the midst of your Garden party with these fun Tea Party Ideas from our website. Make your Garden party picture perfect with this craft. Buy wooden photo frames at the craft store and set them out for the kids to paint. Set out paint brushes and bright colored paints. Decorate clay pots Let your guests start their own garden with this clay pot craft. Buy small terra cotta pots at the craft or discount store. Set out paints and paintbrushes along with the pots at the party and have the kids paint their terra cotta pot. When they are done and the paint is dry fill the pot with soil and add let them add a few flower seeds. Garden Party Games Bug and Flower Hunt A fun treasure hunt that kids of all ages like to do at parties. Buy lots of small plastic flowers or bugs and hide them around the party area or backyard before the party starts.

FEBRUARY 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ CALIFORNIA KIDS! Family Fun Guide

Give each guest a butterfly net (or a paper sack will work) to collect as many flowers and bugs as they can find. If they want to play again (and they will!) divide the kids into two groups. One group will hide the items first and the other group will find them and then they will reverse so everyone gets to hide the items and find them again. Garden Party Food Ideas Garden Cupcakes Cute Garden cupcakes idea found at http://www.womansday.com/Recipes/Garden Garden party cupcake ideas Tear Drop Cookie Cutters can be used to cut out a variety of food and when the tear drops are placed in a circle they look like flower petals. Cut out a variety of foods and arrange plates to look like a food flower garden. These foods all work great and will give the party a splash of color - slices of oranges, apples (toss with a little pineapple juice first to prevent them from turning brown), kiwi (makes great leaves), sugar cookies, brownies, etc. You can also cut whole sandwiches with the cookie cutters. sugar cookies, brownies, etc. You can also cut whole sandwiches with the cookie cutters. sugar cookies, brownies, etc. You can also cut whole sandwiches with the cookie cutters.