FREE
The LOCAL Go-To Guide for Busy Families • January 2012
Comfortable with
Discomfort pg. 14
Loving the Challenging Child pg. 36
Local Fitness GUIDE
Indoor
P L AY Gupgi. 4d4 e!
pg. 28
pg. 36
Enter to Win!
Snow Skiing Giveaways from Squaw & Bear Valley!
Shelby J. Smith, DDS, MS, PC
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! NORTHERN CALIFORNIA'S ANNUAL FAMILY EXPO! ONE DAY ONLY! CALIFORNIA
Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
February 11, 2012
Saturday 10am - 6pm Alameda County Fairgrounds Building A 4501 Pleasanton Avenue, The Parent, Baby, Toddler & Child Expo Pleasanton, CA 94566 (From SF, Take BART to Pleasanton Affordable Family Fun! station & take local bus to Fairground) Adults: $10/(Tickets at the door), 65+:$3, Directions: (925) 426-7600 ext 7 Kids under 12: free
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Kids Love Us, Parents Trust Us Over the past 17 years Dr. Shelby has developed the reputation of being the dentist to go to for non-sedation treatment of fearful and special needs children. She has developed behavior management techniques based on child development and psychology which help most children see the possibility of having a new and better experience than they have had before. Over and over again Dr. Shelby and staff have been complimented and awarded recognition for outstanding success with treating children who otherwise might have been sedated. Additionally, Dr. Shelby has a degree in Orthodontics. She enjoys watching the selfesteem grow with the patient as they move through the various phases of treatment and begin to see a beautiful smile emerge.
Call Today for your Appointment! 925.755.5115
2213 Buchanan Road, Suite 112 Antioch, California 94509
w w w . D r S h e l b y. c o m
The LOCAL Go -To Guide for Busy Families Big sigh of relief! As much as I LOVE the holidays, it is nice when they are finally over and the New Year is in front of us! Nothing like a clean slate, a fresh start and new beginnings ahead! Whatever the New Year has in store for you and your family, we hope that Active Kids will help make life easier. In this issue we have presented some wonderful topics to get you thinking, some great giveaways (snow skiing anyone?) and, as usual, fabulous local resources. Moving into the New Year we would love to hear from our readers. We want to ensure that you have the resources you need at your fingertips. If there is something you would like to see featured in Active Kids in 2012, please let us know! Any thoughts, ideas, suggestions can be sent to info@activekidsdirectory.com Please keep an eye out for our new and much improved website early this year. Further committing ourselves to providing you with all the parenting information you need, we hope you find it helpful and informative.
Hereʼs to a wonderful 2012!
Tracie Vollgraf & the Active Kids Tea m
Publisher | Editor Tracie Vollgraf Marketing Manager Phil Laspina Advertising Sales Manager Karen Ruskowski kruskowski@activekidsdirectory.com
Graphic Designer Krista Connolly www.designkcy.com Contributing Writers Amy Sluss Amy Roskelley Christine Carter Bruce Gach Kim Rice Maggie Simone Lamond
On the Cover: Joshua Allen, 10 yrs. old Lani Allen Photography - www.laniallenphotography.com
Ozzie Jafarnia Susan Stifflemann Johanna Kammerer, M.PH., R.D Professor Crosley Gracie
ACTIVE KIDS is published By TAG Marketing Group
P.O Box 5158 Pleasanton, CA 94566 www.activekidsdirectory.com Advertising Inquiries (925) 789 - 0709 info@activekidsdirectory.com
Stay connected & updated on monthly giveaways, events & discounts. FIND US ON
January
7 Squaw Ski Package Giveaway! 8 Take the Weight off Once and for All 10 Connecting the Generations 12 Keeping Your Kids Hydrated 14 Comfortable with Discomfort 16 A Healthy Resolution for the Whole Family
19 20 23 26
Brush up on Healthy Teeth
28 34
Local Fitness Guide
36 41 42 44
Loving the Challenging Child
Parenting a Procrastinator Sweet Potato Cake Recipe
Be Aware: How to Protect Yourself Family Ski & Snowboard Guide
Vaccinations Today Bear Valley Ski Giveaway Indoor Play Guide
6 10
Offers at a Glance
22 38 47
Kids Meal Deals
Connecting the Generatons Calendar of Events
Advertising Directory
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Mention Active Kids to receive the following specials!
p.2
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November 2011
ACTIVE KIDS 7
Take the weight off once & for all! How one Mom lost fifty pounds and kept it off.
• “Coolest” Dentist in East Bay! • Unique Kid Friendly Environment
by Kim Rice
• Dedicated to providing quality dental
care for your child
Itʼs been four years since I began the journey of losing fifty pounds. This is the first time in my life that Iʼve lost weight and kept it off. Whatʼs ironic is that I didnʼt start out intending to lose weight. I was horribly depressed and suffering with a variety of health issues when I read an article about an elimination diet by Mark Hyman, M.D. The premise is to eliminate toxic food and possible allergens from your diet which can cause inflammation and toxicity. Dr. Hyman says in his book, The Ultra Simple Diet, “The real trick is that the same things that make people sick make them fat. In fact, being overweight is actually a symptom of an underlying health problem.” As I cleaned up my diet and followed his program, my body healed and the pounds melted away almost effortlessly. I never felt hungry and did not feel like I was dieting. I did however make some huge lifestyle changes. It was worth it though. I feel ten years younger. Hereʼs how I did it:
• In-network provider for all dental
PPO insurances
(925) 706-8688
Dr. Tim Huang Board Certified Pediatric Dentist 4045 Lone Tree Way, Suite A, Antioch www.kidsdentalworld.com
1) I strive to eat whole organic food that was grown from the earth. This means minimizing or even eliminating processed, packaged food. 2) Eliminating the top allergens from my diet for at least a couple of weeks allowed me to identify what was making me sick. This included gluten (wheat, rye, barley, spelt), dairy, soy, citrus, nightshades (peppers, tomatoes, eggplant), corn and eggs. Slowly, one at a time, I added these items back into my diet, journaling to track any changes in my body. I now avoid those foods that cause any type of reaction. I also avoid beef and pork focusing more on organic chicken, beans and fish (only fish considered low in toxicity). 3) Iʼve eliminated white sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, caffeine in all forms, alcohol, trans fat and junk food. 4) I drink several quarts of purified water every day. 5) Exercise is important as well. I work out at least 30 minutes a day and break a good sweat 3- 5 times a week with intense exercise or sauna. Making these changes in my life was a major lifestyle shift but has forever changed the way I feel and look. Disclaimer: I am not a Nutritionist, Registered Dietician or Medical Professional. The information I provide here are simply tips on how I succeeded on an elimination diet. Please always first follow the direction of your doctor or specialist.
Kim Rice is a Wellness Coach, gfcfcoaching.com, and mother of three children in Pleasanton writing about topics such as autism, depression, and diet and life transformation. She earned her BA degree in Journalism from the University of Detroit and has over 20 years of corporate writing experience.
8 ACTIVE KIDS
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Januar y 2012
ACTIVE KIDS 9
connecting
Bloomingcamp
the Generations
Family Optometry
Located in historic downtown Livermore, Bloomingcamp Optometry offers comprehensive vision care with a personal touch.
New Yearʼs Resolution: Love More Openly N
Welcoming Dr. Katie Boe to the practice. www.bloomingcampOptometr y.com (925) 454 -1598
by Amy Sluss, RN
ways to show how much you care.
I grew up in a family where we didn't EVER EVER say, "I love you." The family my husband and I created is more vocal about our feelings. We We often say, "I love you." But words are not not enough. Families who show love and affection affection in multiple ways are healthier and heartier. And we need to do it regularly. Here are 10
Mention Active Kids and receive $25.00 off any professional fees.
1. Name and proclaim your loved oneʼs positive qualities. Do this regularly. Itʼs easy to do the opposite, to focus on the things your child (or partner) is NOT doing well. Turn the table so you are dishing out more positives than negatives. 2. Listen. Really listen. What is he saying beyond his words? Itʼs called active listening and it involves going for the heart of the message. This takes effort, time, and patience. The effort to communicate at this level shows that you care. 3. Declare your love and appreciation with words. You may be thinking, “But she should know that I love her.” Believe me; she wants to hear it again so tell her often. ClubSpOrt...
5. Give symbols of love, small gifts or notes. Pick up a magazine for him, a book, or a favorite treat. Leave a note in his lunchbox, on his door, or taped to his computer screen.
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4. Attend her events and accompany her as she pursues her interests.
6. Perform favors and small acts that make life easier for your loved one.
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7. Touch. We all need touch; itʼs a recognized human need. 8. Share your real thoughts and feelings, authentically and deeply. 9. Follow through on promises. 10. Go out of your way. Love is not convenient. It is in the stretching where we touch each other in heartfelt and valuable ways.
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One more thing, you cannot fake it. If you just go through the motions your family members will see through it. Go to your authentic place, deep inside, where you truly feel love then speak or act your love from that place of truth. Carry it on: Share this list with your family members; expand on the list. Then ask each family member to name the top three ways they like to be loved. Try to learn what is most meaningful to your family members. Then follow through and show just how much you truly love them.
Amy Sluss, RN is an author and family-life specialist from Pleasanton, CA. Her mother-daughter workshops are highly acclaimed by both mothers and girls; go to her website www.fab2bfem.com to check them out. While youʼre there and family life. 10 ACTIVE read KIDSAmyʼs blog for more on parentingactivekidsdirector y.com
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*Some restrictions apply. Must be local resident and first time guest 21 years or older to receive free guest pass. Call or come in from 9am-7pm to redeem this coupon. Identification is required. Offers expire 1/31/12.
Januar y 2012
ACTIVE KIDS 11
Keeping Your Kids Hydrated by Amy Roskelley We've all been reminded over and over again to stay hydrated during the hot summer months. Often however, we forget about the importance of drinking water in the winter! Although our kids aren't losing as much water due to heat, they still need to drink.
Water will:
* Improve skin * Reduce headaches * Aid digestion * Improve energy
* Help eliminate toxins * Help maintain a healthy weight * Makes you feel good!
How much water to drink for each person however, isn't so clear. We no longer hear the recommendation to drink a specific amount of water, remember 8 glasses per day? Instead, the new recommendations are more customized. Kids need different amounts of water depending on their size, their activity level, their environment, the weather, how much high water foods they are eating, and it's always changing for each kid as well. The new test to see if your child is drinking sufficiently is actually the old test.
The urine color test. Light colored urine means your child is well hydrated. Dark, apple cider colored urine means a kid is dehydrated. Encouraging your child to get sufficient fluids can be tricky. Some things that have worked well for us include: * Giving the kids their own water bottles or hydration packs, especially while hiking. * Letting them take a water bottle to school that they can keep on their desk. * Flavoring the water with lemon juice. * Dropping frozen cherries in their water. * Making sure there is easy access to water, such as a step stool in front of the sink, or a water dispenser they can reach. So, this winter, don't forget how important it is for kids to continue drinking and stay well hydrated. Send water to their little league practice, rather than sugar sweetened drinks, and make sure there is plenty of water around the house for them to have. Amy is a mother of three, a graduate of Health Education, and loves food. Her Super Healthy Kids blog is about putting into practice everything she learned working for the Department of Health and applying it to her own family. Get Tips & Tricks from Amy at www.blog.superhealthykids.com
12 ACTIVE KIDS
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ACTIVE KIDS 13
Comfortable with
Discomfort by Christine Carter, Ph.D.
My kids have had their difficulties in the last few years — my divorce, a move away from a beloved school and neighborhood, a humbling medical situation— and theyʼve risen to each challenge, though not without pain. At any rate, by sending my kids to camp, Iʼm sending them the message that I believe that they can manage loneliness, and homesickness, and anxiety. I believe that they can, at the tender ages of 8 and 10, handle these difficult emotions themselves, without me standing over their shoulders telling them to breathe. As crappy as it sometimes feels to me, they simply donʼt always need me there, telling them what to do and what to think.
When I was a kid, I begged and begged to go to sleep-a-way camp with my best friend Rory. I did extra chores to earn it, and I counted the days until I got there. I donʼt remember being homesick, or sad at the drop- off. I remember feeling wild and free. I loved the horses and the outdoors and ceramics. I got postcards from my teachers. It was awesome.
By sending kids to camp, Iʼm sending them the message that I think it is incredibly important to unplug: not just from electronics, but also from their well-meaning but often over-bearing mom. That it wonʼt kill them to not report back to me on every high point and low point of their day, every kind deed, every “good thing.” In sending my kids to camp, Iʼm making it abundantly clear what I value: real time spent outdoors, the social skills needed to make new friends, compassion (the theme of their session is kindness), and most importantly, their own autonomy.
My kids have had mixed feelings about going to camp: they were excited, but also scared. “TWO WEEKS!?” my youngest cried when I told her what, to me, was great news: They were going to summer camp! “They have horses!” I said cheerfully, trying to drum up excitement. “And sailing! Iʼve never been sailing myself,” I mourned. “Youʼll get to do it before I do!”
I say all this, but of course deep down I wanted it to be easy for them. So when Fiona became so nervous as we dropped her off that she needed to lie down in the infirmary, I also became a nervous wreck. “Sheʼll be fine,” the camp nurse, Tigger, reassured me. “Now we need you to hop on that van – it is the last one headed back to the parking lot!” I had become the lingering parent who wouldnʼt leave and who was making the whole thing worse for her kid by trying to make it better. But who could fault me for not wanting to leave my kid IN THE INFIRMARY?! I justified to myself. In the end, Fiona rallied, and I did, too. I got on the bus and the girls began two weeks of what may be profound discomfort for us all. In addition to having tons of fun, Iʼm sure the kids are experiencing the discomfort of managing loads of new challenges on their own (albeit in a very knowing, safe environment). I am managing the discomfort of not - knowing, not - connecting — of just trusting. But Iʼm comfortable with that.
I said this knowing full well that sailing is actually not on my daughtersʼ bucket list. Itʼs on mine. The kids spent the last few weeks readying for camp and making serious sister pacts to stick together. My younger daughter, Molly, was particularly concerned about what would happen if her older sister made friends first. Would Fiona and she still pick the same activities? Could Molly join Fiona with her new friends? Pinky-swears of allegiance were traded, plans to sneak into each otherʼs cabins made. Molly had a plan: Fiona would take care of her. She was nervous, but also excited. Fiona was calm, reassuring. That is, until about an hour before we arrived at camp. At which point Fiona became more clammy than cool and collected. She developed vague “not feeling well” symptoms. She was too carsick to eat lunch. When we arrived, she was faintly green. Altitude sick, I declared. “Drink some water,” I insisted. “Take deep breaths,” I said, taking them myself. “Think good thoughts, Fiona. Find two things to be excited about.” The thing is, I believe that it is important to challenge kids. To get them truly outside of their comfort zones so that they can grow. Hence two weeks instead of a mini-camp. My desire to challenge my kids was reinforced in a recent Atlantic article about “Why the obsession with our kidsʼ happiness may be dooming them to unhappy adulthoods.” The gist of this article is that “kids who always have problems solved for them believe that they donʼt know how to solve problems.” And the article is right— they donʼt. The article reminded me that happiness— the often fleeting emotion — in and of itself is not the goal. That comfort — my own or my childrenʼs — is not the goal. Instead, all of this is about how to lead a happy life. And while itʼs true that a happy life comes from positive emotions (like gratitude and compassion, for example), it also comes from having the tools we need to cope with lifeʼs inevitable difficulties and painful moments.
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Christine Carter, Ph.D.*, is a sociologist and happiness expert at UC Berkeleyʼs Greater Good Science Center. She is the author of "RAISING HAPPINESS: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents." She teaches online happiness classes that help parents bring more joy into their own lives and the lives of their children, and she writes an award-winning blog for *Greater Good* (www.greatergoodparents.org). "Sign up now with promotional code ActiveKids, and get $25 off the cost of the class!"
Febr uar y 2011
ACTIVE KIDS 15
A Healthy Resolution for the Whole Family by Johanna Kammerer, M.PH., R.D., John Muir Health Pediatric Dietitian Make 2012 the year you make positive changes for yourself, and for your entire family. Sound overwhelming? Itʼs not. Not sure where to start? We can help! Two of the most positive changes you can make are to be more physically active and to eat healthier foods. Keep it simple – itʼs not necessary to make drastic changes overnight. Incorporate a few new ideas each week and build from there. The key is to make changes together as a family. Have each member contribute – even young children can help! Incorporate one family activity each week that involves physical fitness – a hike, a bike ride or park the car a little further than normal when running errands. Choose one day each week to walk to and from school, rather than driving. Even 30 minutes of activity each day can make a difference. Bring back the family dinner! Turn off the TV and phones and sit down together as a family. Sitting down at the table together is still one of the best ways for families to grow and stay connected. Donʼt feel guilty if at first this only happens once or twice a week. Start with what works today and build from there. Research has shown that just eating together as a family can improve a childʼs nutritional health. In families who shared at least three meals a week, children were 24 percent more likely to be eating healthy foods than those in families who ate few or no meals together. The children were also 12 percent less likely to be overweight and 20 percent less likely to choose unhealthy foods. Make it a habit. Prepare a weekly menu of meals and do your shopping at one time to eliminate those last-minute grocery runs or ordering take out rather than cooking. Be sure to keep fruits and vegetables on hand. Stock up on convenient and nutritious breakfast and snack items. Replace the morning bagel cart run with a cup of yogurt and a banana and youʼll save money and calories. Be sure to keep healthy foods in sight and on hand. A bowl of fruit kept just inside the fridge so itʼs the first thing your hungry child sees will be a welcome sight. Tackle unhealthy habits one at a time. If youʼre a fast food regular at lunch – 16 ACTIVE KIDS activekidsdirector y.com
choose one day a week to pack a nutritious meal. Treat yourself to a walk and eat outside, or invite a co-worker to join you. Try not to make eating at your desk a daily event. If you must work through lunch, take a short break before or after to get some fresh air and stretch your legs. Even a 15 minute brisk walk around the building or block will clear your head and energize you for the afternoon Model healthy eating. Children who see their parents or caregivers buying, cooking and eating healthy foods are more likely to eat healthy foods themselves. Avoid using food as a reward for good behavior. Instead, keep a bowl of almonds, snack-bag sized baby carrots, cubed melon or portioned cheese snacks on hand at all times to curb unhealthy snacking. Let your children police you. Talk to your kids about smart eating goals, and empower them to call you out if you grab junk food. Keep the staples of a healthy meal in the pantry. Most groceries carry convenience items that may cost a bit more, but will help keep you on track on even the busiest of days. Roast chicken, ready-to-use vegetables, quick-cooking rice and even some frozen meals can be nutritious options for the family dinner. Finally, have fun together. Your resolutions are more likely to stick if you enjoy the activities together as a family. Engage the whole family in planning. Keep a suggestion box for each family member to contribute ideas for activities, games, foods or outings they enjoy. Make a point of choosing from the box each week to plan activities and meals. Kids of all ages will enjoy being part of your familyʼs new healthy resolutions. Lastly, reward yourself for good behavior! Choose an activity youʼll all enjoy – perhaps an overnight camping trip or a movie night out after youʼve successfully achieved some healthy goals.
John Muir Health’s Partners in Active and Healthy Lifestyles (PAHLs) Program is a unique series designed to help your family discover ways to incorporate balanced nutrition and exercise into your lifestyle and build the confidence to keep your family healthy. PAHLs is a 4-week family program that covers nutrition, exercise, and the psychological aspects in creating a healthy lifestyle that will ultimately improve long-term success. This program is intended for children and their families who are motivated to make lifestyle changes that will result in overall wellness. A new session begins February 5 in Brentwood. John Muir Health Behavioral Health Center provides a full range of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services for patients of all ages. For more information, call 925-674-4100. A new series of parenting classes begins January 10 (Brentwood) and January 11 (Walnut Creek). To learn more about these classes and events at John Muir Health, call 925-941-7900 or go online at www.johnmuirhealth.com/classes. October 2011
ACTIVE KIDS 17
Brush Up on Healthy Teeth! Simple Steps for Kidsʼ Smiles by Dr. Ozzie Jafarnia, DDS Itʼs that time of year! As we head into 2012, many of us are challenging ourselves to maintain New Yearʼs resolutions! While we, as parents, often have difficulty taking care of ourselves, we do strive to take care of our children as best as we possibly can. Iʼd love to share some of the most important points to keeping up a healthy mouth and beautiful smile for your little ones! 1. Start cleaning teeth early. As soon as the first tooth appears, begin cleaning by wiping with a clean, damp cloth every day. When more teeth come in, switch to a small, soft bristled toothbrush. Brush with water, or a training toothpaste if your child is having a hard time. Often the sweet flavor of the training paste can entice a child to allow you in. 2. Brush twice, Floss once. Nighttime brushing is certainly the most important brushing time of the day. Cleaning the residue from food and drinks consumed throughout the day is imperative. Brushing after breakfast ensures that they start the day off with clean chompers. Flossing is necessary as soon as teeth touch, consult with your dentist if you are unsure. 3. Use the right amount of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is important for fighting cavities, but do not go overboard. Children under 2 should use a fluoride - free toothpaste, and as they approach 3, begin using a fluoride rich paste for their nighttime brushing. 4. Supervise brushing. While it may seem easy as an adult, proper brushing technique takes a fair amount of manual dexterity! Many toddlers try to assert their independence in many ways, tooth brushing included. Itʼs great to encourage their excitement about brushing, but nothing takes the place of a good cleaning by an adult. Be sure to get a turn, and if your child is super wiggly, lay them down on the bed, couch, floor and brush that way….you will be surprised at how easy it can be that way and how much you really get to see! 5. Monitor diet. As pediatric dentists, we know the potential harm sticky snacks can cause. Keep such snacks to a minimum, and if possible, push them to the end of the day, as brushing and flossing will be happening soon afterwards. Although sticky snacks tend to be our least favorite, we also encourage children to eat and drink in regular, limited intervals. Try to avoid grazing and sipping as much as possible. Juice offers very limited benefit to the body, and while it is okay to consume a glass a day with a meal, avoid it if your child does not show any interest in it. 6. Water, water, water. Not only is water wonderful for the body as a whole, it is a wonderful way to help wash away food and debris throughout the day. 7. Call your dentist with any questions! Since visits are months apart, never hesitate to call if you are worried about anything in particular.
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Dr. A. Ozzie Jafarnia, or "Dr. Ozzie" is proud to be Danville's only American Board of Pediatric Dentistry certified dentist. Dr. Ozzie provides high quality, comprehensive dental care to patients in a gentle, fun and loving environment at her Danville office 4145 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, #203. Visit drozzie.com or call (925) 837-7745 for more information. ACTIVE KIDS 19 July 2011
Parenting A Procrastinator:
Advice for Parents Whose Kids Put Everything Off by Susan Stiffleman As adults, we know that procrastinating creates problems in every aspect of our life. Not only can it impact our success in education and work, but it generates conflict with those we love when they feel they can't depend on us to follow through with commitments. Because of their tendency to put off till tomorrow what would best be done today, procrastinators often rely on others -- parents, teachers, or bosses -- to "light a fire" for them, using threats or bribes to override the inertia that sets in around doing unpleasant tasks. But of course this is a very unhealthy dynamic, leading to frustration and resentment for everyone involved. While it's understandable that your son -- like all kids -- prefers having fun over doing things he doesn't enjoy, it's important to help youngsters develop the skills they'll need to do well in life, and this includes teaching them ways to manage their resistance to doing tasks they just don't feel like doing.
5. Teach your son how to "chunk down" tasks into bite-sized, more manageable ones. Many of us procrastinate because we think that once we start in on something that isn't enjoyable, we'll be stuck doing it for hours. Teach him the Ten Minute Rule, whereby he just works on his math or rakes the yard for 10 minutes, and then gets to decide whether to finish the job or take a pause. Many kids will start a task -- and proceed to completion -- if they know there's light at the end of the tunnel. 6. Suggest that your son create a list of tasks he's responsible for completing each day. Then, rank each item according to how difficult he thinks it will be and how long he thinks it will take. When he's completed a task, have him record how hard it actually was, and how long it actually took. This exercise can be a real eye-opener for procrastinators, who often put things off because they think the job will take longer or be more difficult than it is in practice. Parenting a procrastinator is tough. There are so many "unfun" things that our kids need to do every day so it can feel like a battle zone, pushing and pulling to get even the simplest tasks checked off the list. By legitimizing -- rather than judging -- your son's reluctance to do unpleasant things, and working with him to teach him time management and organizational skills, you'll help him overcome his procrastination habit, and more importantly, restore the loving connection with him that is so important to you both.
Here's my advice: 1. Avoid coming across as needy. Kids can "smell" our agenda, and when they sense that we need them to do something, it often triggers their Inner Rebel. Saying, "It's time to feed the dog," rather than, "I need you to feed the dog" is a small adjustment that can make a big difference. 2. Avoid coming across as harsh and judgmental. Kids put their guard up when they sense that we're being critical, especially if their pattern of procrastination stems from legitimate challenges with staying organized and on task. (See #3.) 3. Many of the most creative, intelligent people I know lean toward procrastination when the task at hand is mundane. (I've been there too.) We know we're messing up when we find ourselves dragging our heels to do anything that's challenging for our right-brain style. We're far better served by learning techniques for managing life's dull duties than being scolded for not leaping at the opportunity to do them. 4. Acknowledge how much you understand. You know your son prefers to put things off until the last minute. So, tell him you have decided that the two of you are going to have to come up with a different approach. Explain that you're no longer willing to have the same old arguments about homework and chores, with all the yelling and drama. Invite him to problem solve with you to generate other options for tackling the things he consistently avoids taking care of. I like the mindmapping program "Inspiration" (or "Kidspiration") for brainstorming ideas with kids. You can learn more at www.inspiration.com/Kidspiration. 20 ACTIVE KIDS activekidsdirector y.com
Susan Stiffelman, MFT, is an internationally respected parent educator, therapist and AOL/HuffPost Parentʼs weekly parenting expert. Susan is known for her down to earth, parent-friendly advice on raising cooperative, connected and resilient children. Ms. Stiffelman is the author of Parenting Without Power Struggles: Raising Joyful, December 2011 Resilient Kids While Staying Cool, Calm and Connected. ACTIVE KIDS 21
Kid's Meal Deals!
Pleasanton:
Sweet Tomatoes: 4501 Hopyard Rd., Ste 1 (925) 463 -9285. Everyday ʻKids Bundleʼ (meal with drink) Ages 3 -5 $2.99. 2 and under eat free. Alberto's Cantina: 435 Main St. - (925) 462 -2316 Monday and Tuesday kids eat free after 5pm, Ages 12 and under.
Contra Costa County Antioch:
Schooner's Grille & Brewery:
Alameda County
4250 Lone Tree Way - (925) 776 -1800 Wednesdays - One free kidʼs meal with each adult meal purchase.
Berkeley:
Orale Orale Mexican Restaurant:
Filippos: 2930 College Ave. - (510) 644-3848 Kids eat free every Tuesday. The free meal includes a drink and ice cream sundae.
Castro Valley:
Knudsen's Ice Creamery 3323 Castro Valley Blvd. - (510) 582-2275 Kids Eat FREE Wednesday! One FREE kidʼs meal per adult entree purchase. Carrows 2723 Castro Valley Blvd. - (510) 582-9410 Kids Eat FREE! Wednesday & Thursday after 4pm. For kids 10 and under. One free kidʼs meal with the purchase of an adult entree.
Dublin:
IHOP: 6379 Dublin Blvd. - (925) 828 -7934 Tuesday and Thursday after 4pm kids eat free with each adult meal purchase. Carrows: 7505 Dublin Blvd. - (925) 828 -9725 Kids eat free Wed. and Thurs. after 4pm. For kids 10 and under one free meal with the purchase of an adult entree.
Emeryville:
Pasta Pomodoro: 5614 Shellmound Ave. - (510) 923-1173 Kids eat free every Tuesday. Asqew Grill: 5614 Bay Street. - (510) 595-7471 Kids eat free every Monday.
Hayward:
Brentwood:
5601 Lone Tree Way - (925) 240 -1963 Mondays & Tuesdays - Half off kidʼs meal with adult meal purchase.
Johnny Rockets: 301 Sunvalley Mall - (925) 798 - 8335 Wednesday & Thursday 5-9pm. One free kidʼs meal with the purchase of any adult entree & drink.
Danville:
Maria Maria: 710 Camino Ramon Rd. - (925) 820 -2366 Tuesday nights, 4pm-closing, $1 tacos
Denny's: 807 Camino Ramon - (925) 820-8240
Tuesday and Saturday from 4pm -10pm: Kids eat free with each adult meal purchase.
Pleasant Hill:
Denny's: 612 Contra Costa Blvd. - (925) 687- 8276
Tuesday and Saturday from 4pm -10pm: Kids eat free with each adult meal purchase. Pasta Pamodoro: 45 Crescent Dr. #C - (925) 363 - 9641 Every Tuesday kids eat free. Carrowʼs: 624 Contra Costa Blvd. - (925) 689- 5757 Kids eat free Wed. and Thurs. after 4pm. For kids 10 and under one free meal with the purchase of an adult entree.
San Ramon:
Chevy's: 18080 San Ramon Valley Blvd. (925) 327-1910. Tuesday kids eat free with adult meal purchase. Izzyʼs Steak House and Chops: 200 Montgomery St. - (925) 830 - 8620 Sunday and Monday nights kids eat free.
Livermore:
Walnut Creek:
22 ACTIVE KIDS
(Makes 14 - 16 cakes)
3 Medium Sweet Potatoes 1 Large Egg, whisked 1/2 Tsp Ground Cinnamon 1 Tbsp Brown Sugar 1/2 Tsp Kosher Salt 2 Cups Panko or Bread Crumbs, divided Vegetable or Canola Oil as needed
Concord:
Denny's 30163 Industrial Pkwy. S.W. - (510) 471-0311 KIDS EAT FREE* 4pm-10pm Dickey's Barbecue Pit 1524 N Vasco Road - (925) 606-4200 EVERY DAY - FREE a serving of soft vanilla ice cream. Dine-in only. One FREE kidʼs meal with the purchase of every adult meal.
Sweet Potato Cakes
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. 2. Poke a few holes in the sweet potatoes and bake for 1 hour. 3. Remove and discard the skins from the potatoes, mash flesh in a bowl and allow to cool. 4. Mix the egg, cinnamon, sugar, salt and � cup of panko or bread crumbs into the sweet potatoes. 5. Place the remaining 1 1/2 cups of panko or bread crumbs in a separate bowl. 6. For each cake, coat 2 tablespoons of the mixture with the panko and shape into small patties. 7. Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a skillet over medium heat and place the patties into the skillet. 8. Pan-fry for 4 minutes on each side until golden.* 9. Continue to pan-fry the remaining cakes with oil as needed. 10. Serve. * Sweet Potato Cakes can be kept warm in a 250 degree oven until ready to serve.
For more recipes go to
Marie Calendarʼs: 1101 S. California Blvd. - (925) 943 - 7100 Every Tuesday and Saturday: Kids eat free with adult meal purchase.
www.weelicious.com
*Special offers may expire or change at restaurant discretion. Call to confirm current specials.
activekidsdirector y.com
August 2011
ACTIVE KIDS 23
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925-451-2871 darci@dghealth-life.com
(925) 822-5980
Specializing in Individual and Family Coverage
Brentwood/Antioch/Oakley
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Danville Sycamore Valley (925) 648-0500
Danville Blackhawk
3201 Camino Tassajara Road
S Nurturing, Safe Environment S Engaging Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten & Jr. Kindergarten Curriculum
Corner of Old Blackhawk Road
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P r e s c 2011 hool October
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Dr. Ozzie Jafarnia, DDS Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry Call for an appointment today! 925-837-7745 • www.drozzie.com 4145 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, #203, Danville, CA
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Next to East Bay Fellowship Church
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Our mission is to provide high quality, comprehensive dental care to our young patients in a gentle, fun and loving environment. We are proud to announce that we have been voted “Best Pediatric Dentist in Contra Costa County”
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M i dACTIVE d l e S cKIDS h o o 25 l
Be aware -
How to protect yourself by Crosley Gracie Although terrifying and not something we wish to think about, sexual assault is a very real potential threat facing women every day. As such, preventing a sexual assault is an extremely valuable topic that bears repeating. Acknowledging that any woman can become a target can induce feelings of fear, helplessness and defeat. The main reason behind the feelings of helplessness might be due to the fact that the average woman will always be physically weaker than the average man. It is easier for many women to just avoid the topic altogether and hope theyʼll never become a victim. According to the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), administered by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, 1 in every 4 women will be a victim of a sexual assault sometime in their life. With that being said, disregarding the facts wonʼt lessen your, or any of your friendʼs, chances of becoming a target. When this topic is brought up, the first question you should ask yourself is: “Would I know what to do if I ever become a victim of an attempted sexual assault?” Self Defense truly begins before it becomes physical. Heightened sense of awareness is the first and most important line of defense. Sexual assaults are almost always predatory. Itʼs a crime of motive and opportunity. The attacker will only attack suddenly and when he feels confident he won't get caught, or the victim can't find any help in her surroundings. Attackers rely on the element of surprise. Therefore, awareness of your surroundings is crucial. Women should never allow themselves to be found in circumstances that can facilitate an attack (such as being alone in a dark parking lot or on running trails). Knowing where you are and who is around you by scanning your surroundings, keeping an alert posture, and making eye-to-eye contact with people near you, makes it very difficult for you to be identified as a target. And if you canʼt be identified as a target, you are unlikely to become a victim. If the attacker has noticed that there's no one around and the victim is unaware and distracted, he will rush in and try to subdue her, utilizing as much force as necessary and often relocating her to a secluded site. The strategy for this phase is all about preventing the attacker from gaining control. Therefore, having the ability to apply techniques that can prevent abduction, such as escapes from wrist controls, front & rear bear hugs, and chokes is essential, as these are the most common and conventional ways an attacker would efficiently control a victim. 26 ACTIVE KIDS activekidsdirector y.com
This is also the time to use verbal assertiveness strategies to create boundaries. If the attacker can't get you on the ground or carry you away, he can't complete the assault. If the attacker is able to take his victim to the ground, he'll try to break her down physically and mentally by pinning or striking her. He expects his victim to panic and expend all of her energy trying to escape, thus allowing him to go on with the assault. Striking, scratching, etc. will have no effectiveness here. A predator will only carry on the assault once he realizes that the victim is in fear, demoralized, and has no energy left to resist. The precise moment that the attacker shifts from trying to control you to carrying out the assault, is the perfect opportunity to act. This will maximize chances of getting away or incapacitating the assailant. If still unable to escape, exhibiting a false sense of surrender may create additional opportunities to escape. Formal training in a martial arts discipline such as Jiu Jitsu can help provide the tools you need to avoid becoming a statistic. Developing and maintaining a calm mindset, conserving energy and avoiding panic response in order to fake surrender, as well as efficiently applying the right technique at the right time, requires diligent practice and consistent physical training. Gracie Jiu-Jitsuʼs unique system gives you the tools and ability to fight from your back and safely protect yourself from an attacker on top. Leverage - based techniques allow anyone to use their legs to nullify strikes from the top, or even go as far as submitting the attacker with chokes or joint locks. Awareness and knowledge of self defense techniques is helpful, but nothing can replace the confidence and problem-solving skills you gain from repeatedly practicing these techniques with resisting training partners. Besides its application to real life situations such as recognizing and preventing possible sexual assaults, Jiu-Jitsu provides many physical and mental benefits and can also be used for competition and fitness improvement.
For more information, contact:
Crosley Gracie Jiu - Jitsu Academy Brentwood, CA (925) 634 - 6958 www.crosleygracie.com
Professor Crosley Gracie is a third generation member of a family of fighters and martial arts gym owners. The self-defense and combat style developed by the Gracie family has been used worldwide by professional fighters, the US Military and taught at thousands of Martial Art Academies in all 5 continents. Proven to work on fully resisting bigger and stronger opponents in competition, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is the most comprehensive and realistic rape prevention system available today.ACTIVE KIDS 27 October 2011
Local Fitness Guide Alamo
24 Hour Fitness - Active 140 A Alamo Plaza (925) 362 -1730 www.24hourfitness.com
Classes: Group Exercise Classes Cardio Equipment, Circuit Training, Free Weights, Group Exercise and Personal Training. Childcare: Yes
Antioch
In Shape
4099 Lone Tree Way (925) 331 -3065 www.inshapeclubs.com Premier health club resort and fitness center, a destination for family fun. Sparkling indoor & outdoor pools, waterslide, group exercise classes, racquetball, basketball and more. Wide assortment of cardio equipment, a full array of resistance equipment, and a huge new Kids Club. Childcare: Yes
Brentwood
In Shape
180 Griffith Lane (925) 513 -8700 www.inshapeclubs.com Over 30,000 square feet of first-class fitness amenities that has something for everybody! Wide assortment of cardio equipment, a full array of resistance training equipment, an indoor pool, a group exercise studio, and a huge Kids Club! This health club offers a large variety of exciting group exercise classes. www.inshapeclubs.com Childcare: Yes
Delta Valley Athletic Club 120 Guthrie Lane (925) 240 -2990 www.deltavac.com
Strength and cardio machines including elliptical trainers, stair-climbers, treadmills, stationary cycles, personal trainers, nutritional consultants,
image consultants, weight-loss programs Classes: Offering 50 classes to choose from Childcare: Yes
Concord
UFC
1975 Diamond Boulevard (925) 265 -8130 www.ufcgymspecialoffers.com Advanced cardio and resistance machines, full range of classes, including cycling, extreme cardio conditioning, pilates, kickboxing, and Zumba, skills and conditioning for all martial arts disciplines and for all experience levels. Kids programs offered. Childcare: Yes
The Big C
1381 Galaxy Way (925) 671 -2110 www.TheBigC.com Cardio fitness center with Lifecycles, treadmills, rowing machines, Stair Masters, recumbent bikes, and ellipticals, racquetball/handball courts, squash courts, indoor tennis courts, basketball/volleyball gym, pro shop, whirlpool spas, saunas, steam rooms, massage therapists, laundry, Internet lounge, shoe shine, restaurant and an outdoor pool. Classes: Pilates, step aerobics, tennis, swimming, and more Childcare: No
In Shape
5294 Clayton Road (925) 602 -5600 www.inshapeclubs.com Newly-upgraded 65,000 square foot state-of-the-art health club fully equipped with top-of-the-line amenities, great group classes, basketball and racquetball courts, yoga and Pilates studios, outdoor pool, and all the equipment you'll need to get a great workout. Childcare: Yes
programs available. Childcare: Yes
Danville Fitness
101 Town and Country Drive (925) 743- 3919 www.ballyfitness.com Cardio Equipment, strength training, personal training, Cycling Classes: Yoga and group exercise classes Childcare: Yes
Fit Personal Studio
294-B Railroad Avenue (925) 362- 8001 www.fitstudiodanville.com One-on-one Personal Training, Partner Training, Sports Specific Training, Pilates Reformer Studio, Registered Dietician Childcare: No
Fremont
Mindbodyzone
3335 Seldon Court (510) 252- 1193 www.mindbody-zone.com Stair-climbers, treadmills, personal trainers, nutritional consultants, image consultants, weight-loss programs and spa. Classes: Pilates, yoga, core conditioning, circuit training. Childcare: No
Lafayette
Oakwood Athletic Club
4000 Mt. Diablo Boulevard www.oakwoodathleticclub.com A full-service club, Oakwood offers over 63,000 square feet of fitness facilities with unlimited options to keep your workouts invigorating and your social calendar full. Members enjoy spa treatments, high intensity workouts, relaxing mind body classes, challenging court sports, masters swim instruction, Kids programs, special events and more Childcare: Yes
machines, spinning bikes, free weights, weight machines, weight-loss programs, nutritional counseling, personal trainers, massage room, stretching area, dry sauna in the women's shower area. Classes: Pilates, yoga, spinning and more. Childcare: No
Absolute Center
3658 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, #101 (925) 299- 9642 www.AbsoluteCenter.net Cardio and strength machines including free weights, treadmills, stair-climbers, and stationary cycles, personal trainers, physical therapists and stretching area. Classes: Pilates and yoga. Childcare: No
Oakley
Diamond Hills Sports Club & Spa 1510 Neroly Road (925) 420- 4575 www.sparetimeclubs.com
Private club serving the cities of Oakley, Brentwood, Antioch and nearby communities. The 10-acre site includes a 60,000 square foot clubhouse, 17 tennis courts, three pool/ two spa aquatics complex and large recreational area. The two-story clubhouse hosts a 17,000 square foot fitness center, two group exercise rooms, dedicated group cycling studio, full- court gymnasium, Kids' Club, Childrenʼs Play Center and Youth Exercise Center. In addition, the Club includes a 3,500 square foot full-service European day spa open to Club members and the public. Classes: Many to choose from Childcare: Yes
Pleasant Hill
Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA 350 Civic Drive (925) 687-8900 www.MDRYMCA.org
Cardio and strength equipment, indoor/outdoor pool, aerobics/dance studio, handball/racquetball, indoor running track, roller rink, sauna, steam room, whirlpool Jacuzzi, teen/youth center, general purpose room and computer room. Classes: Aerobics, cycling, swimming, and more. Childcare: Yes
Danville Crunch Fitness
Lafayette Health Club
3464 Blackhawk Plaza www.crunch.com
85 Lafayette Circle (925) 284- 7732 www.LafayetteHealthClub.com
Pleasanton
Pilates, Yoga, Dance, Strength and Cardio are just a few of the programs Crunch offers. Kids Crunch
Strength and cardio machines including stair-climbers, ellipticals, treadmills, rowing
7090 Johnson Drive (925) 463- 2822
ClubSport Pleasanton
www.clubsports.com/pleasanton
ClubSport encompasses all the activities and features of a year-round resort with world-class sports and fitness activities. An 18,000 Sq. Ft. Fitness Center, state- of-the -art weight & cardio equipment (with over 100 cardiovascular machines), certified personal trainers, nutrition counseling and rock wall & climbing area. Over 150 Weekly Classes, 10 Indoor Tennis Courts, 4 Outdoor Tennis Courts, 8 Indoor Racquetball/Handball Courts, Dual NCAA- Regulation Size Basketball Courts. 6- lane Outdoor Deep Water Lap Pool, Exercise Pool, Children's Wading Pool, Adult- only Saline Lap Pool. A 9000 Sq. Ft. Kids World with childcare offered for 6 week – 12 years, daily age-appropriate activities, fitness and exercise center, spring, summer and winter camps.
Express Fitness
3903 Santa Rita Road (925) 416- 1100 www.expressfitnesscenters.com Cardio Kickboxing, Strength Training, Yoga, free weights and machines Classes: Many to choose from Childcare: Yes
24 Hours Fitness – Super Sport 4770 Willow Road (925) 463 -1515 www.24hourfitness.com
Health club offers a wide range of group exercise classes, personal training and a wealth of other benefits and features. Classes: Many to choose from Childcare: Yes
San Ramon
ClubSport San Ramon
350 Bollinger Canyon Lane (925) 735 -8500 www.clubsportsr.com Cardio equipment, free weights, full sized basketball court, tennis courts, squash courts, group cycling, group exercise, outdoor lap pool, eatery, lounge, personal training, personal training area, personal viewing screens, practice basketball court, pro shop, sauna, steam room, towel service, spa and hair salon. Classes: Many to choose from Childcare: Yes
Fitness 19
160 Market Place (925) 327-1919 30 ACTIVE KIDS
www.fitness19.com Treadmills, stairclimbers, lifecycles, elliptical cross-trainers, Dumbbells / Barbells, benches, multi jungles, 8-station Crossover Cable, Smith Assisted Squat Machines, Power Racks and Hammer Strength plate-loaded equipment Classes: No Childcare: No
N’ THE ULTIMATE ROCKI TRAMPOLINE PARK $39.99 Family Fun Pack
Includes (4) 1-hr. Jump Sessions, 1 large Pizza & 2 Liter Bottle of Soda. 4 sessions valid on same night only. 1 per person per visit. One topping pizza. Additional toppings extra. Visit our website for details. $78 Value! Valid Mon - Thurs through 1.6.12
24 Hour Fitness – Super Sport
Birthday Parties 12 Kids Starting 12 Kids Starting at $200
4450 Norris Canyon Road (925) 244 -9855 www.24hourfitness.com
Cardio equipment, free weights, full sized basketball court, group cycling, group exercise, indoor lap pool, juice bar, lounge, personal training, personal training area, personal viewing screens, practice basketball court, pro shop, sauna, steam room, TRX suspension training, towel service, volleyball and whirlpool. Classes: Many to choose from Childcare: Yes
Walnut Creek
Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness Club 1908 Olympic Boulevard (925) 932 -6400 www.wcsf.net
Private Party Room & Up to 2 hours of Jump! Visit our website for details. Valid through 1.6.12
Gift Certificates Available Visit our website for details. Valid through 1.6.12
Holidays not included. Not combinable with any other offers.
Trampolines • Dodgeball • Basketball Foam Pit • 3 Party Rooms • Cafe Sound System & more!
5875 Arnold Road, Suite 100, Dublin Tel: (925) 828-7676 • Fax: (925) 828-7677
www.rockinjump.com
Strength and cardio machines including elliptical trainers, stair-climbers, treadmills, stationary cycles, personal trainers, nutritional consultants, image consultants, weight-loss programs and spa. Childcare: Yes
Renaissance ClubSport Walnut Creek 2805 Jones Road (877) 274 -9900 www.renaissanceclubsport.com
Strength and cardio machines including elliptical trainers, stair-climbers, treadmills, stationary cycles, personal trainers, nutritional consultants, image consultants, weight-loss programs, swimming and spa and kids programs Classes: Many to choose from. Childcare: Yes
Curves
Multiple Bay Area locations www.curves.com Womenʼs only gym. Cardio and strength equipment incorporating circuit training. Classes: No Childcare: No
activekidsdirector y.com
Januar y 2012
ACTIVE KIDS 31
Spanish Immersion Classes & Camps Engaging curriculum uses music, art & games Experienced, dynamic teachers Ages toddlers to teens Small class sizes Mention ACTIVE KIDS and receive a FREE First time trial class!
www.vivaelespanol.org • 925-962-9177 Alameda • Lafayette • Pleasanton • San Francisco
Century Landscape & Gardening Residential and Business Maintenance All work Guaranteed! Call 925-819-0266 or centurylandscape55@hotmail.com for free estimate!
Paint your own pottery! Creativity & Fun for any age!
1764 First Street, Livermore (925) 373 - 0222 7197-B Village Parkway,Dublin (925) 829 - 7778 www.ceramic-cafeart.com
32 ACTIVE KIDS
activekidsdirector y.com
Januar y 2012
fect The per for y it activ ire the ent ! family
Mention Active Kids & receive a FREE Heart ceramic shape when you come in to paint!
ACTIVE KIDS 33
Head
to the
Snow !
Family Ski & Snowboard Guide
From adventure zones to terrain parks, your children will have tons to cheer about. Instructors have training, personality and patience to get kids out on the slopes and keep them smiling. Programs are categorized by age and ability level to ensure your kids get the most out of their mountain experience! Ages 3 - 12
Squaw Valley Ski Resort
Dodge Ridge
1 Dodge Ridge Rd., Pinecrest, CA 95364 (209) 965- 3474 • www.dodgeridge.com
67 Runs Dodge Ridge is pleased to offer the Burton Learn to Ride (LTR) program for kids. LTR is designed to welcome new riders to the sport and encourage those already in the sport. Kids will learn through terrain based teaching methodology on equipment specifically designed for riderʼs first learning or still finding the rhythm to their ride. Lessons start age 2 and up.
Bear Valley
2280 SR 207, Bear Valley, CA 95223 (209) 753- 2301 • www.bearvalley.com
67 Runs Bear Valleyʼs Cub Club offers Full Day, AM and PM sessions for kids ages 4 - 12. Your kids will get to experience the excitement of playing, sliding and gliding in the snow with kids their own age in a safe and caring environment. Bear Valley instructors are great with kids and pass a background screening check to ensure your kids are properly cared for.
Mammoth
1 Minaret Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 (760) 934- 2571 • www.mammothmountain.com 46 Runs
Whether you're new to the slopes or just looking to fine-tune your technique, group lessons are a great way to develop your skills. Our friendly instructors are certified and extremely knowledgeable so you progress quickly. Group lessons also serve as a great social gathering, as you explore the mountain with other students of your same age and ability. Ages 3 - 13. For onsite childcare, check out Woolyʼs Forest! Two locations, one for infant to 6, additional site for kids 2 - 6.
Heavenly
3860 Saddle Rd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 (775) 586 - 7000 • www.skiheavenly.com 97 Runs Have a budding ski/ride lover in your family? From trips to the enchanted forest, visits from Ripperoo the dog and loads of hot chocolate, tour kids will love learning to ski or ride at the Heavenly kids ski school! Expert
34 ACTIVE KIDS
instructors will help improve your child's skiing/riding ability while having tons of fun in a safe environment. Ages 4 - 13.
Homewood Mountain Resort
5145 Westlake Blvd., Homewood, CA 96141 (530) 525 - 2992 • www.skihomewood.com 60 Runs Homewood's children's ski and snowboard programs provide your child with a fun-filled snow adventure mere steps from the shores of Lake Tahoe. Geared toward skiers and riders of all ability levels, the Homewood Ski & Snowboard School focuses on building and solidifying technique in a positive learning environment. After a day on the slopes with our professional instructors, your child will want to come back to Homewood again and again! Ages 4 - 12
Alpine Meadows Ski Resort
2600 Alpine Meadows Road, Tahoe City, CA 96145 (530) 581 - 8374 • www.skialpine.com 100+ Runs and Trails Kids Programs Focused on safety, fun and learning in all of the programs, instructors are trained in the latest techniques to ensure the best opportunity for your children to learn. Alpine Meadows offers a wide variety of half-day and full-day lesson options which are just right for kids ages 3 - 13, firstimers and advanced.
Kirkwood Ski Resort
1501 Kirkwood Meadows Dr., Kirkwood, CA 95646 (209) 258 - 6000 • www.kirkwood.com 100+ Runs and Trails Programs For All Ages / Skiing and Snowboarding Small Fry Program ((2 - 4 years) Mini Rippers (ages 3 - 4) Little Rippers (ages 5 - 6) Little Rippers (ages Mountain Explorers (ages 7 - 12) A Varied Amount of Packages and Weekly Specials.
Sierra at Tahoe
1111 Sierra-At-Tahoe Rd., Twin Bridges, CA 95735 (530) 659 - 7453 • www.sierraattahoe.com 46 Runs Kids' Group Lessons activekidsdirector y.com
1960 Squaw Valley Rd., Olympic Valley, CA 96146 (800) 545 - 4350 • www.squaw.com 170 Runs First Time Childrenʼs Ski Lessons Squaw Valley offers the ideal environment for first timers with introductory lifts, dedicated beginner slope, and gentle terrain with plenty of room to comfortably develop the necessary skills to turn or stop. Experienced instructors will have you falling in love with the sport and exploring other areas of the mountain with ease and confidence in no time.
North Star at Tahoe
5001 Northstar Dr., Truckee, CA 96160 (530) 562 - 2267 • www.northstarattahoe.com 97 Runs Choose from ski or snowboard lesson packages for kids ages 3 - 12. Also offers Kid's Private Lessons as well as state licensed Child Care for non-skiing children ages 2 - 6 at Minors' Camp.
Diamond Peak Ski Resort
1210 Ski Way, Incline Village, NV 89451-9205 (775) 832 - 1177 • www.diamondpeak.com 30 Runs The Bee Ferrato Child Ski Center is for children ages 3 - 7. With a separate learning area, powerline lift and a low instructor to child ratio of 1:5, your child is sure to receive the attention they deserve in a non-crowded and fun environment. Group lessons are for children 4 - 7 only. 3 year olds are accepted in private lessons. Free lift tickets are included with all lessons.
Mt. Rose Ski Resort
22222 Mount Rose Highway, Reno, NV 89511-5733 (775) 849 - 0704 • www.mtrose.com 60 Runs Rosebuds Children's Camp are classes specifically geared to smaller guests. From kids who have never seen snow, to kids who yearn for steeps, skilled instructors keep the day fun and safe. Rosebuds Children's Ski & Snowboard Camps consist of an on-hill educational ski and snowboard program, NOT A DAYCARE FACILITY. Parents must remain on site. Children must be able to use the bathroom independently to participate in this program.
August 2011
Sugar Bowl
629 Sugar Bowl Rd., Norden, CA 95724 (530) 426 - 9000 • www.sugarbowl.com/home 84 Runs As part of Sugar Bowlʼs ongoing commitment to being a top family resort, they have designed a whole new world exclusively for kids, the "Den." The Den simplifies the process of getting your kids out on the slopes with our professional staff of accomplished instructors. The Den is the designated home to Sugar Bears, Powder Cubs and Black Bear Adventures.
Soda Springs Ski Resort
10244 Soda Springs Rd., Truckee, CA 96160 (530) 426 - 3901 • www.skisodasprings.com 15 Runs Learning to ski and snowboard is made especially easy at Soda Springs. Group lessons are designed for those aged 7 years and older. For littler folks, check out the new Planet Kids Moving Carpet, geared for ages 8 and under.
Donner Ski Ranch
19320 Donner Pass, Norden, CA 95724 (530) 426 - 3635 • www.donnerskiranch.com 52 Runs Children Lessons Available - Ages 7-12
Boreal Ski Resort
19749 Boreal Ridge Rd., Soda Springs, CA 96160 (530) 426 - 3666 • www.borealski.com/winter (530) 42 36 Runs The Boreal Kids Club is great way for kids ages 4–12 to learn to ski and snowboard at Boreal. The Kids Club is designed to teach children of all abilities to ski and snowboard so your child can learn at the pace that best suits him/her. Children in Kids Club may ride the chairlift and/or surface lift. Kids Club is not a licensed day care.
Mt. Shasta Ski Park
4500 Ski Park Highway, McCloud, CA 96057 (530) 926 - 8610 • www.skipark.com 32 Runs Kids Lessons Available. Ages 5 - 10
Big Bear Mountain
43101 Goldmine Dr., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 www.bearmountain.com Various kids programs to choose from. Kids Lessons Available. Ages 4 - 12
ACTIVE KIDS 35
Loving the Challenging Child by Maggie Lamond Simone If you've ever taken a dog for training, one thing becomes immediately clear. The classes aren't for training the dog -- they're for training you. You need to understand the way a dog thinks before you can begin to understand how to peacefully coexist with him. The goal isn't to break the dog's spirit so that he'll do what you want, it's to understand the dog's spirit and use that knowledge to help him be safe and happy. Anyone who's ever had children knows that children are not dogs. But I'm learning that the lesson is almost the same. I was once quietly and guiltily confiding in a friend about my daughter's maniacal aversion to hairbrushes, headbands and barrettes. Coupled with her equally headstrong determination to grow her hair long, we have been reduced to shouting matches more often than I care to admit. "All of a sudden," I told my friend of this latest incident, "it was like we were BOTH six years old, and I was yelling at her that I was going to make an appointment to cut her hair off. That's when I realized I was at the end of my rope and had to walk away." My friend didn't bat an eye. "I have the best conditioner, I use it on my older daughter's hair or we can't get a comb through it. And they make tug-proof hair bands, too!" These things didn't occur to me because I've always had short, fine hair. My friend has beautiful, thick hair... like my daughter. My Achille's heel with my child caused my friend no grief at all. "Now, my son -- he makes me crazy!" she said, laughing. My relief was palpable, not just from a possible solution to the hair problem, but because she admitted to having a challenging child of her own. The guilt I'd felt over this most recent meltdown was unnerving, particularly because I don't think I've ever felt it with my older child. I've never had such a meltdown with him. He simply is not that combination of mercurial, stubborn, and six. Why do I feel so guilty? Because I get frustrated -- when she doesn't take "no" for an answer, when the toes of her socks have to fit just right, when she wants to wear shorts in the winter and arrange thirty dolls just so before bed. While I'm learning to choose my battles, I get frustrated at my own lack of patience, 36 ACTIVE KIDS activekidsdirector y.com
and I feel guilty because it makes it seem as though I love my challenging child less. Kids from the beginning of time have accused parents of playing favorites, of loving one child more than another, of treating siblings unfairly. Parents from the beginning of time have lived with the guilt of not loving each child the same. But each child is NOT the same. They're different. Is it possible to love your children equally, but differently? I think it is. I love them both more than life -- my son, who has always been empathic, sensitive, helpful, loving, and only occasionally stubbornly perfectionist, and my daughter, who has always been moody, argumentative, dramatic, strongwilled, stubborn, and only occasionally affectionate. I didn't know kids could be that different from each other, especially in the same family...although puppies and wolves are in the same family too. My daughter is more independent, imaginative, creative, dramatic, focused and clever than I will ever be. Every single element of her personality that now leads us to trouble is just what I wanted her to have as an adult. I don't want to quash them, or dim them, or stifle them. I just need to be able to handle them at this time in her life, and that's not always easy -- which is perhaps the understatement of the year. Certainly, it's not all battles and meltdowns. When she's not making me crazy, she's making me laugh. And the occasional hug or unsolicited "I love you, mommy" have become touching beyond belief, because I know that affection is difficult for her. It doesn't mean she doesn't love me. It means we're different, and I need to learn to appreciate those differences so that I can be as good a mother to her as I am to my son -- the "easy" one. My "easy child" is like me. I instinctively understand him, how he thinks. I can predict how he will react in any given situation and plan accordingly. There are few meltdowns, few acts of overt disobedience, few gray areas of acceptable behavior. We "get" each other because we're similar. My "difficult child" isn't challenging because of who she is. She's challenging because of who I am. I don't always understand her, or how she thinks, or why she reacts the way she does. I'm also probably a little jealous of her confidence and her unshakable belief in her decisions. Of one thing, however, I am certain: all of these traits are what make her unique and exceptional. I just need to learn how to teach her to use them to be safe and happy. Fortunately, it's an ongoing class. And as I tell us both almost every day, don't worry. Mommy's signing back up. Maggie Lamond Simone is a national award-winning columnist, author and mother of two living in Baldwinsville, NY. Her humor and observational essays have appeared since 2002 in Family Times, an award-winning monthly parenting magazine. She has won multiple national awards through Parenting Publications of America, including the 2008 and 2007 Gold Award for Humor and the 2007 Gold Award for Personal Essay. Her book From Beer to Maternity (November 2009), can be found on amazon.com.
December 2011
ACTIVE KIDS 37
Free Bridge Lessons to Youths
JANUARY calendar
Diablo Valley Bridge Center 2920 Camino Diablo, Walnut Creek 6:15 pm– 8:15 pm Alternate Tuesdays (925) 820 – 7203
JANUARY 10
ALAMEDA COUNTY JAN. 21 – FEB. 5 JANUARY 3 - 31
Annie
Bankhead Theater 2400 1st Street, Livermore Family Jump Time Dates and times vary Pump It Up 530 Boulder Ct., Ste. 100, Pleasanton (925) 373 - 6800 Every Fri. & Tues., times vary JAN. 8, 15, 22, 29 (925) 600 - 9663
Family Fun Day
Rockin’ Tots Jump Time
Every Tuesday & Wednesday Rockinʼ Jump 5875 Arnold Rd., Ste. 100, Dublin 10:00 am (925) 828 - 7676
JANUARY 5 - 26
Shake Your Sillies Out Golden Apple Toys 4807 Hopyard Rd., Pleasanton 10:30 am Thursday Mornings (ages 3 - 6) 800 - 858 - 8308
JANUARY 7
Home Depot Free hands-on workshop
Make a Savings Shed Ages 5 - 12 All Home Depot stores 1st Saturday of every month 9:00 am – 12:00 pm www.homedepotclinics.com
Magic Show
Studio Grow 1235 10 th St., Berkeley 11:00 am (510) 526 - 9888
Café Art Every Sunday 1764 First Street, Livermore (925) 373 - 0222 7197- B Village Parkway, Dublin (925) 829 - 7778
THROUGH JAN. 31 Drop-In play
Play - Well Pleasanton 5737 Valley Ave. #B, Pleasanton Dates and Times vary (925) 484 - 1547
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY JAN. 1 - 22
Walnut Creek on Ice
Walnut Creek Ice Rink 1375 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek Dates and times vary (925) 935-SNOW (7669)
JANUARY 3 - 31
Baby & Toddler Time Concord Library 2900 Salvio St., Concord Every Tuesday 10:15 am – 10:35 am & 11:15 am – 11:35 am (925) 646 – 5455
JANUARY 4, 11, 18, 25 Preschool Storytime Concord Library 2900 Salvio St., Concord 1:30 pm– 2:00 pm (925) 646 – 5455
JANUARY 7
ARF’s 21st Annual Stars to the Rescue Lesher Center for The Arts 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek 7:00 pm (925) 256 - 1273 x499
Free Crafts for Kids Kid - Crafted Calendar Lakeshore Learning 1929 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek (925) 944 - 11495 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
JANUARY 8
World Series 2011 — A Champ's Perspective Lesher Center for The Arts 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek 6:00 pm (925) 256 - 1273 x499
JAN. 9 – MAR. 5
Tiny Dancers – Parent Participation
Studio 8 3420 Fostoria Way Ste. A-100, San Ramon 10:00 am – 10:30 am Call to Register (925) 867 – 1556
Kenn Adams’ Adventure Theatre - Interactive theatrical adventure for kids of all ages. Danville Library 400 Front St., Danville 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm (925) 837 – 4889
JANUARY 14
Free Crafts for Kids Hand in Hand Flower Lakeshore Learning 1929 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Walnut Creek (925) 944 - 1495 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Giant Flea Market at SRVHS San Ramon Valley High School 501 Danville Blvd., Danville 8:00 am– 1:00 pm
JANUARY 17
Farmstead Chef: Grow, Harvest, Prepare and Share Walnut Creek Library
Co-Parenting Class Series 1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek Center for Creative Living 199 E. Linda Mesa Ave., Danville 7:00 pm– 9:00 pm On-Going Series (925) 855 – 1745
6:30 pm – 7:45 pm (925) 977 – 3340
JAN. 11 - FEB. 8
(In-person pre-registration at library is required)
Busy Bee Cooks Danville Community Center 420 Front St., Danville 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Call to Register (925) 314 – 3400
Art About Animals
Danville Community Center 420 Front St., Danville 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Call to Register (925) 314 – 3400
JANUARY 14
Seussical, The Musical Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center 10550 Albion Rd., San Ramon 11:00 am & 4:00 pm (800) 606 – 0424
JAN. 18 - FEB. 15
Toddler Tumble Time Wednesdays for five weeks Concord Library 2900 Salvio St., Concord 10:00 am - 11:15 am (925) 646 – 5455
JANUARY 20 - 21 Aladdin Jr.
Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center 10550 Albion Rd., San Ramon 7:00 pm (800) 606 – 0424
JANUARY 21
Celebrate Chinese New Year with Dan Chan the Magic Man Dougherty Station Library 17017 Bollinger Canyon Rd., San Ramon 1:00 pm (925) 973 – 3380
Free Crafts for Kids
Anchors Aweigh! Floating Boat Lakeshore Learning 1929 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Walnut Creek (925) 944 - 1495 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
JANUARY 21 - 22
A Year with Frog and Toad Kids
Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center 10550 Albion Rd., San Ramon 1:00 pm & 3:00 pm (800) 606 – 0424
JANUARY 23
Lunar New Year Craft Orinda Library 26 Orinda Way, Orinda 10:00 am - 6:00 pm (925) 254 – 2184
JANUARY 25 Toddler Time
Walnut Creek Library 1644 N Broadway, Walnut Creek 10:15 am – 10:45 am (925) 977 - 3340
JANUARY 26
Picture Book Time Walnut Creek Library 1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek 10:15 am (925) 977 – 3340
JANUARY 28
Free Crafts for Kids Groundhog Puppet Lakeshore Learning 1929 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Walnut Creek (925) 944 - 1495 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
JANUARY 31
Concord Farmers' Market
Todos Santos Plaza Salvio St. & Grant St., Concord 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
EAST COUNTY THROUGH JAN. 16 Brentwood Holiday on Ice
The Streets of Brentwood 2565 Sand Creek Rd. Dates and Times vary www.brentwoodholidayonice.com
JANUARY 3 - 31
Drop-in play session
Bricks 4 Kidz 3150 Balfour Rd, Brentwood Every Tuesday 10:00 am – 11:00 pm (925) 684 - 4082
6:00 pm – 6:45 pm (925) 427 - 8390
JAN. 6, 13, 20, 27
Drop-in play session
Bricks 4 Kidz 3150 Balfour Rd., Brentwood Every Friday 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm (925) 684 - 4082
JANUARY 7
Home Depot Free hands-on workshop
Make a Savings Shed Ages 5 -12 All Home Depot stores 1st Saturday of every month 9:00 am – 12:00 pm www.homedepotclinics.com
JAN. 7, 14, 21, 28
New Class! Women’s Only Jiu Jitsu
Every Saturday Crosley Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy JANUARY 4 3291 Walnut Blvd., #140 Magic with Ray Andrews Brentwood (Ages 4 - 2nd grade only please) 9:00 am – 10:00 am Antioch Library (925) 634 - 6958 501 W. 18th St., Antioch 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm Sensory Sensitive (925) 757 - 9224
Cinema
JANUARY 4, 11, 18 Mouse Tales Preschool Storytime Pittsburg Library 80 Power Ave., Pittsburg 10:30 am - 11:00 am (925) 427 - 8390
JAN. 5, 12, 19, 26
Every Saturday Rave Motion Pictures 2525 Sand Creek Rd., Brentwood Time varies weekly (925) 809 - 0030
JANUARY 9
Mrs. Jane Musical Storytime
Barnes & Noble Slatten Ranch Shopping Center Stories and crafts, Every Thursday 5709 Lone Tree Way, Antioch Pittsburg Library 10:00 am 80 Power Ave., Pittsburg (925) 978 - 1031
Wiskers’ Workshop
JANUARY 12, 19, 26 Lapsit Baby Storytime Brentwood Library 104 Oak St., Brentwood 10:30 am – 11:00 am (925) 516 - 5290
JANUARY 14
Xtreme Science Magic! Pittsburg Library 80 Power Ave., Pittsburg 1:00 pm - 1:45 pm (925) 427 - 8390
Vaccinations Today by Bruce M. Gach, MD Passed via the placenta from mother to baby, babies are born with some protection against illnesses. That protection may last for only a few months and is definitely not at the same level as the motherʼs. Babiesʼ immune systems do not really kick into gear until 6 - 9 months of age. Therefore the most susceptible time for serious infections corresponds with the time health care providers recommend the first series of shots. The evidence shows that in geographic areas where vaccines are not routinely given, vaccine preventable diseases appear. Vaccines save lives. Because of the success of vaccines, the terrible toll on health and life that such diseases once caused is now hardly ever seen in the U.S. and many other parts of the world. What are the shots actually protecting against? The following is a short explanation for the vaccines recommended in the first year of life. DTaP vaccine-Diphtheria can cause severe breathing problems, pneumonia and heart failure. Pertussis (whooping cough) can cause terrible coughing which lasts for weeks so the baby cannot feed properly, cannot sleep due to coughing, has breathing problems, may develop pneumonia and seizures. Tetanus although not common may be transmitted through contamination of the skin of the infant and lead to muscular spasms, inability to eat and death. IPV-Polio-causes a paralysis which can either be just of some muscles or spread to the diaphragm and paralyze the muscles of breathing. This vaccine is now only given in the muscle and not orally. HIB vaccine-Hemophilus influenza type b does not cause “the Flu”. This is a really nasty bacteria which can cause meningitis (an infection of the brain and spinal cord) and severe pneumonia plus a lot of other problems. Without quick recognition and treatment there is a high percentage of complications and even death. Since the vaccine, this number one cause of meningitis in infants has almost disappeared. Hepatitis B vaccine-Hepatitis B is blood borne and can be transmitted to a newborn through the mothers bloodstream. It also can be transmitted by someone who has the disease knowingly or unknowingly handling the baby. Hepatitis can lead to irreversible liver damage. Pneumococcal vaccine-Strep pneumonia (not the Strep throat kind)-when contracted can cause meningitis, ear infections, pneumonia and other serious problems. Since the vaccine, the number of ear infections in children under the age of two has decreased dramatically. Rotavirus vaccine-Rotavirus was the number one cause of hospitalizations for dehydration due to diarrhea in the world before this vaccine was developed. Other symptoms caused by the virus are vomiting and fever. In countries where this vaccine is not available, the death toll from this viral diarrhea in infants and young children remains high. This is an oral vaccine. All these vaccines are recommended to be given in the first six months after birth at approximately two month intervals since before that time; babies do not really mount a protective immune response strong enough to protect them from these diseases. Talk to your health care provider about these vaccines if you have further questions. Future articles in Active Kids will discuss the other vaccines. Bruce Gach, M.D. is the managing partner of Livermore-Pleasanton-San Ramon Pediatrics Group. He is a Board Certified practicing pediatrician with over 30 years of experience caring for children. He has served on numerous committees dealing with child health and development. www.livermorepleasantonpeds.com
Get up to Bear Valley for some winter fun! Win a Family 4 pack of ski tickets! Enter to Win at www.facebook.activekids Winter activities include: Downhill Skiing
Music and movement classes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers and the grownups who love them.
Cross-Country Skiing
Snowmobiling
musictogether.net (925) 551-7722
Backcountry Adventures
Nanny Services • Full Time, Part Time, On–call
Finally an answer to the summer dilemma you are going to love... A Summer Nanny. NOW OPEN in Blackhawk Plaza!
Bear Valley is conveniently located on scenic all-weather Highway 4, between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite. 2280 SR 207, BEAR VALLEY, CA 95223
Next door to Blackhawk Grille
Tutor Services • 1–on–1 Tutoring, All ages – All Subjects
Now is the right time for your student to start SAT Test Prep! Ask us about our upcoming FREE practice test date!
Pure mountain fun is closer than you think at Bear Valley Mountain!
Call: 925 550 6738
The perfect family getaway with over 400 acres and terrain for everyone!
www.collegenannies.com www.collegetutors.com
Bear Valley’s Cub Club offers sessions for kids ages 4-12.
For more information go to www.bearvalley.com 42 ACTIVE KIDS
(925) 229 - 4247 www.pawprints.info
Let us help you build a stronger family.
Dog Sledding
www.bearvalley.com
Paw Prints A Unique and Custom keepsake of your Childʼs Hand and Footprint Impression
Snowshoeing Snowboarding
children’s
activekidsdirector y.com
Building Stronger Families™
Januar y 2012
ACTIVE KIDS 43
INDOOR FUN!
For those cold & rainy days!! Antioch Paradise Skate
1201 W 10th St. www.paradiseskate.com
Four Stars Gymnastics 1799 Vineyard Dr. www.fourstarsga.com
Delta Bowl
3300 Delta Fair Blvd. deltabowl.net
Antioch Indoor Sports Center 1210 Sunset Dr. www.aiscsports.com
First Five Center 512 West 5th St. www.firstfivecc.org
Berkeley Habitot
2065 Kittredge St. www.habitot.org
Lawrence Hall of Science 1 Centennial Drive www.lawrencehallofscience.org
Studio Grow
1235 10th St. www.studiogrow.com
Brentwood Bricks 4 Kidz
3150 Balfour Rd. www.bricks4kidz.com/california-eastbay-brentwood
Harvest Park Bowl
5000 Balfour Rd. www.harvestparkbowl.com
First Five Center 760 First St. www.firstfivecc.org
The Little Gym
3850 Balfour Rd., Ste. K www.thelittlegym.com/brentwoodca
Danville The Little Gym 3490 Blackhawk Plaza Cir. www.thelittlegym.com
Valley Rock Climbing Gym 2455 Railroad Ave.
www.larpd.dst.ca.us/open_space/rock_climbing_gym.html
Cabernet Indoor Sports 6474 Patterson Pass Rd. www.cabernetindoorsports.com
Black Diamond Kids Center
Danville Bowl 200 Boone Ct. www.danvillebowl.com
Concord
Gymtastic 1901 Camino Ramon # D www.gymtastic.net
Giggles 548M Contra Costa Blvd. www.giggleszone.com
Studio Grow 3612 Blackhawk Plaza Cir. www.studiogrow.com
Pleasanton
2015 Elkins Way www.blackdiamondkidscenter.com
UFC Gym 1975 Diamond Blvd. # E340 www.ufcgym.com Encore Gymnastics 999 Bancroft Rd. www.dscreationencoregym.homestead.com East Bay Sports Academy 1441 Franquette Ave. www.eastbaysportsacademy.com Jungle Fun and Adventure 1975 Diamond Blvd. www.thejunglefun.com Sky High Sports 1631 Challenge Dr. www.jumpskyhigh.com
Dublin
Café Art 7197-B Village Pkwy. www.ceramic-cafeart.com Dublin Bowl 6750 Regional St. www.earlanthonysdublinbowl.com Rockin' Jump 5875 Arnold Road, Ste. 100 www.rockinjump.com
Lafayette
Pump It Up 1301 Franquette Ave. # A www.pumpitupparty.com
Gymboree 3482 Mt. Diablo Blvd. www.gymboreeclasses.com
Diablo Lanes 1500 G Monument Blvd. www.diablolanes.com
Livermore
Studio Grow 1231 Diamond Way www.studiogrow.com Gymboree 1975 Diamond Blvd. #C-130 www.gymboreeclasses.com Ghost Golf 13 Salvio St. www.ghostgolfconcord.com
Café Art 1764 First St. www.ceramic-cafeart.com Gymnfinity Gymnastics 230 South Vasco Rd. www.gymfinitygymnastics.com American Swim Academy 2821 Old First St. www.americanswimacademy.com
Pleasant Hill
Color Me Mine 1530 Stoneridge Mall Rd. www.colormemine.com Gymboree Play 5460 Sunol Blvd. # 9 www.gymboreeclasses.com West Coast Gymnastics 1056 Serpentine Ln. # A www.wcoga.com Super Franks 5341 Owens Ct. www.superfranks.com Play Well TEKnologies 5737 Valley Ave. www.play-well.org Lil' Baseball/the Pitching Center 7070 Commerce Cir., Ste. B www.thepitchingcenter.com
San Ramon
San Ramon Sports 2411 Old Crow Canyon Road www.sanramonsports.com My Gym 180 Market Pl. www.my-gym.com Valley Cheer and Dance 2411 Old Crow Canyon Rd. www.valleycheeranddance.com
The Golden Skate 2701 Hooper Dr. San Ramon www.thegoldenskate.com
Scientopia Discovery Center 1785 B Tanen St. Napa www.scientopiadiscoverycenter.com
Gymboree Play 2551 San Ramon Valley Blvd. www.gymboreeclasses.com
Play Cafe 4400 Keller Ave. Oakland www.playcafellc.com
Walnut Creek
Lindsay Wildlife Museum 1931 1st Ave. www.wildlife-museum.org
Chabot Space and Science Center 10000 Skyline Blvd. Oakland www.chabotspace.org
Build-A-Bear Workshop Broadway Plaza 1248 Broadway Plaza www.buildabear.com
Hiller Aviation Museum 601 Skyway San Carlos www.hiller.org
All in the Kiln 1950 Mt. Diablo Blvd. www.allinthekiln.com
The Exploratorium 3601 Lyon St. San Francisco www.exploratorium.edu
My Gym 2256 Oak Grove Rd. www.my-gym.com
Just a Hop, Skip & a Jump – Out of the area! The Backyard Factory 280 Arthur Rd. # A Martinez www.thebackyardfactory.com U-ME 3355 Edison Way Menlo Park www.u-meplace.com Monterey Bay Aquarium 886 Cannery Row Monterey www.montereybayaquarium.org
California Academy of Sciences 55 Music Concourse Dr. San Francisco www.calacademy.org Children's Discovery Museum 180 Woz Way San Jose www.cdm.org The Tech Museum 201 South Market St. San Jose www.thetech.org Bay Area Discovery Museum 557 McReynolds Rd. Sausalito www.baykidsmuseum.org
Childcare & Preschools
Healthcare
Parent Resources
A Nanny Connection... .......9 Little People Childcare. . . . . . . 9 Kids Talk Spanish............24
Shelby Smith, DDS ............3 Kids Dental World.............9 Bloomingcamp Optometry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 NutriYummies. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 13 Danville Pediatric Dentistry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 ValleyCare. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Darci Gutierrez Insurance...24 Century Landscape & Gardening. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Dawn King Bookkeeping Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 College Nannies & Tutors. . . 43
Keepsakes
Café Art. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Rockinʼ Jump. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Childrenʼs Sport Activities Squaw Valley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Bear Valley Mountain. . . . . . .42 Rockinʼ Jump. . . . . . . . . ......31 Education Stratford School. . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Viva el Español..............33
Café Art ............. . . . . . . . .10 Childrenʼs Paw Prints. . . . . . . . 43
Kidsʼ Furniture & Play Fitness Crosley Gracie Jiu Jit. . . . . . . .11 ClubSport. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Kids & Teens World. . . . . . . . . . 31
Party Places & Spaces
Music & Enrichment Classes Music Together. . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Special Events & Day Trips Baby & Kidz Expo. . . . . . . . . . . 2 Brentwood Holiday on Ice. . .18 Walnut Creek on Ice. . . . . . . . 32 Bear Valley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42