June 2012

FREE

The LOCAL Go-To Guide for Busy Families • June 2012

Here Comes the Sun pg. 39

Camp Spotlight pg. 18

Getting Men CPR 101 pg. 42

Enter to Win

to the

DOCTOR pg. 33

a Custom, Personalized Swimsuit for your Child - just in time for Summer! pg. 34

The LOCAL Go -To Guide for Busy Families

Happy June! With the end of the school year and the first days of summer, June promises to be a very busy and exciting month for kids and parents alike. In honor of Fatherʼs Day, we included some wonderful articles, such as “What Every Man Should Know” and “Getting Men to the Doctor”. Since summer is all about long days at the pool and beach, donʼt miss our article on the importance of sunscreen, “Here Comes the Sun” and safety tips in “CPR 101”. We also saved plenty of room for the fun stuff like our top Summer BBQ Recipes and adorable swim suit giveaways in our Products We Love! section. Last but definitely not least, we are so proud to announce our brand new, helpful, resourceful, informative, and fun website: www. ActiveKidsBayArea.com!

Be sure to bookmark us and check for Daily Event and Activity Information, Summer Recipes, Local Guides, Fun Craft Ideas, Interesting Articles, and MORE! Now go enjoy your summer - and don't forget your sunscreen!

Jamari & Omari Rose, 5

On the Cover: Our Cover Model Winners

Tracie Vollgraf & the Active Kids Tea m

Publisher | Editor: Tracie Vollgraf Marketing Manager: Kate Schlicher Advertising Sales Manager: Karen Ruskowski kruskowski@activekidsdirectory.com Graphic Designer: Krista Connolly www.designkcy.com Marketing Interns: Betsy Serrano Felicia Stiles Contributing Writers: Aimee Eyvazzadeh, MD, MPH Christine Carter Danielle Federico, MPH Diana Coleman Diana Sterling John Muir Health Kate Schlicher Nichole Pera Susan Stiffleman Tom Limbert ACTIVE KIDS is published

By TAG Marketing Group

P.O Box 5158 Pleasanton, CA 94566 www.activekidsbayarea.com

Photographer: Annette Rittmuller

www.RittmullerPhotography.com

Advertising Inquiries (925) 789 -0709 info@activekidsbayarea.com

Stay connected & updated on monthly giveaways, events & discounts.

FIND US ON

June

p. 12 Farmerʼs Market Guide p. 18 Camp Spotlight p. 20 How to Encourage

Healthy Snacking

p. 23 Are Genetically Modified Foods Making Your Child Sick?

p. 24 Spotlight: Kids & Teens World p. 26 What Every Man

Should Know

p. 28 p. 32 p. 33 p. 36 p. 39 p. 40 p. 42 p. 44

Preschool Guide Summer BBQ Recipes Getting Men to the Doctor Everyday Art Here Comes the Sun The Summer Transition CPR 101

Kids & College: The Benefits of Early Exposure

p. 47 5 Main Moves for Any

Dadʼs Playbook

p. 6 p. 9 p. 34 p. 38

Offers at a Glance Calendar of Events Products We Love!

Kids Meal Deals

Offers at a Glance • “Coolest” Dentist in East Bay!

Mention Active Kids to receive the following specials!

• Unique Kid Friendly Environment

• Dedicated to providing quality dental

care for your child

• In-network provider for all dental

PPO insurances

p. 7 A Nanny Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15% off your nanny placement fee p. 14 Alamo Pet Store. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$10 off any purchase of $40 or more

(925) 706-8688

p. 14 Viva el Espanol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FREE first time trial class with

Dr. Tim Huang

mention of AK

Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

p. 15 Roughing it Day Camp. . . . . . Win a week of camp - roughingit.com/activekids p. 19 Bulldog Soccer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Save $50 on any 4 Day Soccer Camp

4045 Lone Tree Way, Suite A, Antioch www.kidsdentalworld.com

(new clients) & 1st Fit N Fast Kids Class FREE

p. 21 Rockin Jump. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $39.99 Family Fun Pack;

FREE 2nd Hour of Jump (Mon. - Thurs.)

p. 22 Bloom Retreat. . . . . . . . . . . . FREE childcare with first class with mention of AK p. 22 Learning Express Toys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$7 off any purchase of $35 or more p. 27 Posh Mommy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10% off with code ACTIVE p. 43 Blooomingcamp Family Optometry. . . . . . . . . . . . . $25 off any professional fee p. 46 Events by Wallace. . . . . . . . . . . . . Mention AK & receive 10% off your next event

FLEXIBLE HOURS OFFERED MONDAY – FRIDAY! LOCATED IN DUBLIN RANCH

Licensed by the state of CA, CPR, First Aid and Nutrition certified! Background check, TB tested and fingerprinted!

6 ACTIVE KIDS

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June 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 7

June 19 Youth Dodgeball League Starts

JUNE calendar Alameda County June 1 Concert in the Park

The Bacchus Brothers & Lisa Marie Johnston Lions Wayside Park Corner of 1st and Neal St. Pleasanton 7pm - 8:30pm

June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Story time at Busy Bees Preschool 4300 Mirador Dr., Pleasanton (925) 249- 9000 10 am Pre- K & Kindergarten- aged Every Friday; June 15 - August 17

June 2 3rd Annual Chili Shooters Stampede

Downtown Livermore: Downtown Core (925) 373- 1795 11am- 4pm; $15 - $25/ticket Buy your ticket at the Flag Pole Plaza Corner of 1st St. & Livermore Ave.

June 2 - 3 Goodguys Giant Car Show

Alameda County Fairgrounds 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton (925) 426- 7559 Sat. 8am- 5pm, Sun. 8am - 4pm $17/adult; $6/ages 7- 12; 6 and under FREE, Parking $8 8 ACTIVE KIDS

June 3 4th Annual Hook & Ladder Run Wente Vineyards 5050 Arroyo Rd., Livermore 5K, 10K, 1- mile kids run

June 5 Rockin Tots, Parent & Me Jump Time

Presents “Arlo Needs Glasses” Pleasanton Library 400 Old Bernal Ave., Pleasanton (925) 931- 3400 ext. 8 2pm

June 15 Concert in the Park

Rockinʼ Jump 5875 Arnold Road, Ste. 100 Dublin (925) 828 - 7676 9 - 11am Every Tuesday & Wednesday

Northern Static - Hits of the 80s and 90s Lions Wayside Park Corner of 1st and Neal St. Pleasanton, 7 - 8:40pm

June 6 First Wednesday Street Party Main Street, Downtown Pleasanton 6 - 9pm

June 7 Family First Night at Livermore Summer Farmerʼs Market

Carnegie Park at 3rd & J Street Special activities & entertainment for children 5 - 8pm

Valley Childrenʼs Mobile Museum

June 13 Meet the Author Barney Saltzberg

Dublinʼs Farmers Market Emerald Glen Park Tassajara Rd. & Central Parkway 4 - 8 pm Every Thursday

Play Café

Date Night Drop Off 4400 Keller Ave., Oakland (510) 638 - 3712 Pre-registration required 5:30pm - 9:15pm 1 child/$30; 2/$55, 3/$70

June 17 Fatherʼs Day Picnic

Retzlaff Vineyards 1356 South Livermore Ave. Livermore (925) 447 - 8941 Bring picnic & decorate your table. Compete for most scrumptious & most colorful décor. Prizes for dads & dancing $10/adults, children 15 and under FREE Reservations Appreciated.

12 pm- 4:30 pm

activekidsdirector y.com

June 27 “Itʼs a Wild World”

Rockinʼ Jump 5875 Arnold Rd,. Ste. 100, Dublin (925) 828 - 7676 9- 10 year olds Mondays 6pm- 8 pm

Predators & their Prey Pleasanton Library 400 Old Bernal Ave. Pleasanton (925) 931-3400 ext. 8 2pm; ages 5+, FREE

June 20 - July 8 Alameda County Fair

June 28 Summer Wine Stroll

Alameda County Fairgrounds 4501 Pleasanton Ave. Pleasanton (925) 426 - 7600 Closed on Mondays

June 20 Youth Dodgeball League Starts

Rockinʼ Jump 5875 Arnold Rd,. Ste. 100, Dublin (925) 828 - 7676 11 - 12 year olds Tuesdays 6pm- 8pm

Magical Moonshine Theater “The Golden Armadillo” Pleasanton Library 400 Old Bernal Ave. Pleasanton (925) 931 - 3400 ext. 8 11am; FREE

June 21 Thirsty Thursdays at the Farmersʼ Market

Local wine tasting, live music, arts & crafts Carnegie Park, On 4th St. btwn J St. & K St., Livermore 5pm- 8pm; $10/event glass

June 22 Concert in the Park

The Crisis- Eclectic Rock Lions Wayside Park Corner of 1st and Neal St. Pleasanton 7pm - 8:40pm Febr uar y 2012

Downtown Pleasanton, Main St. 6-9pm, Tickets go on sale June 6

Contra Costa County June 1 Downtown Pleasant Hill Plaza Concert

Petting Circle

Lindsay Wildlife Museum 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek (925) 935 - 1978 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3:45pm Every Saturday & Sunday

Wildlife Hospital Behind the Scenes Presentation

Lindsay Wildlife Museum 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek (925) 935 - 1978 11:30am & 2pm Every Saturday & Sunday

June 2 & 9 One Heart Music Class

Between Sweet Tomatoes and Jackʼs Restaurant 6:30pm - 8:30pm; FREE

FREE Preview Bloom Retreat 1444 S. Main St., Walnut Creek (925) 939 - MAMA Tuesday: 5:30pm- 6:15pm Saturday: 11 - 1:45am

June 1 - 4 Friends of Antioch Library Book Sale

June 2 & 16 PAHLS (Partners in Active and Healthy Lifestyles)

501 West 18th St., Antioch (925) 757- 9224 Friday 11am- 5pm Saturday 12 pm - 5pm Monday 12 pm- 2pm

June 2 Roughing It Day Camp

Open House & Family Activity Day Lafayette Reservoir 3849 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette (925) 283 - 3795; 10am - 12pm Ages 4- 16

June 2 - 3 31st Annual Walnut Creek Art & Wine Festival

Nutrition/Exercise series for the whole family John Muir Healthʼs Women Health Center 1656 North California Blvd # 100, Walnut Creek (925) 941 - 7900 10am - 12:30pm

June 3 East Bay SPCA Adoption Day

Whole Foods Market 100 Sunset Dr., San Ramon (925) 355 - 9000 11am - 2pm

Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek (925) 934 - 2007 Saturday 11am- 7pm Sunday 11am- 6 pm FREE

ACTIVE KIDS 9

June 4 Baby Signs FREE Parent Presentation Sign language for babies Bloom Retreat 1444 S. Main St. Walnut Creek (925) 939- MAMA 6pm - 6:45pm (Workshop on June 25)

June 6 Story time

Learning Express Toys 136 Market Pl., San Ramon (925) 830- 8697 10am & 11am Every Wednesday

Once Upon a Wednesday Presents: Lego Party!

Antioch Library 501 West 18th St., Antioch (925) 757- 9224 3pm- 3:45pm

June 7 The Nikki & Tony Show

Children Story Time Barnes & Noble Slatten Ranch Shopping Center 5709 Lone Tree Way, Antioch (925) 978- 1031 10am, every Thursday

June 8 Couples Yoga & Wine Retreat Night

Bloom Retreat 1444 S. Main St., Walnut Creek (925) 939- MAMA 6:30pm - 8:30pm

June 8, 22 Moonlight Movies

Danville Library Town Green 420 Front St. (925) 314 - 3400 8:30 pm - 10:30 pm 10 ACTIVE KIDS

June 9 Summer Reading Festival

(925) 809- 0030 June 11 & 14: Cats & Dogs (PG) June 18 & 21: Legend of the Guardians (PG) June 25 & 28: Yogi Bear (PG) Mondays & Thursdays at 10am (doors open at 9:30 am)

Summer reading begins Lafayette Library 3491 Mt Diablo Blvd. # 107 Lafayette (925) 385 - 2280 Pick up a reading record and earn prizes for reading Through August 18

Mrs. Jane is Rocking the House

Musical Story Time Barnes and Noble Slatten Ranch Shopping Center 5709 Lone Tree Way, Antioch (925) 978- 1031 10am

Family Yoga

Bloom Retreat 1444 S. Main St., Walnut Creek (925) 939 - MAMA Ages 2+ 10:45 am - 11:45 am

June 11 - 15 Color Bundles Art Studio

June 9 - 10 Spring Semi-Annual Sidewalk Sale

Summer Camps 220 A Alamo Plaza, Alamo (925) 727 - 3137 2 Sessions/Day 10am- 1pm or 2 pm- 5pm

Downtown Walnut Creek Participating stores offer special sales (925) 933 - 6778

June 12 Zumba Party & Happy Hour

June 10 Summer Concerts at the Lake

Bloom Retreat 1444 S. Main St., Walnut Creek (925) 939- MAMA 4pm-6pm

On the Lawn at City Hall 100 Gregory Ln., Pleasant Hill (925) 671 - 5229 6pm -8pm; FREE Every other Sunday

June 12, 19, 26 Parenting by Connection

Lawrence Hall of Science: Bubble-ology

Tantrum Training Bloom Retreat 1444 S. Main St., Walnut Creek (925) 939- MAMA 6pm- 8:15pm

Lafayette Library 3491 Mt Diablo Blvd. # 107 Lafayette (925) 385 - 2280 1:30 pm - 2:30pm $20/child Register at (510) 642 - 5134

June 15 Moonlight Movie

June 11 Rave Cinema: FREE Family Film Festival

on the City Hall Lawn 100 Gregory Ln., Pleasant Hill (925) 682- 8096 8:30pm-10:30pm

2525 Sand Creek Rd., Brentwood

activekidsdirector y.com

June 15, 22, 29 Starry Nights in Brentwood Summer Concert Series (925) 516 - 5444 City Park, 7pm

June 16 Bingo Bonanza

San Ramon Library 100 Montgomery St., San Ramon (925) 973 - 2850 11:15am-12:15pm Ages 5- 11

Frame It! Fatherʼs Day Craft

San Ramon Dougherty Station Library 17017 Bollinger Canyon Rd. San Ramon (925) 973 - 3380 1pm- 2pm

American Cancer Societyʼs 3rd Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk (5K) Heather Farm Park 301 North San Carlos Dr., Walnut Creek (925) 284- 7404 8am Registration required

June13 CineLux Theaters

641 1st St., Brentwood (925) 240 - 7335 $1 movies on Wednesdays & Thursdays June 13 & 14: Hugo (PG) June 20 & 21: Diary of a Wimpy Kid (PG) June 27 & 28: Puss in Boots (PG) Every Wednesday and Thursday; 10am June 2012

Peanuts…Naturally: A Snoopy Eco-Festival

Schulz Museum presents a science museum Plant a garden, learn about the environment etc.

Antioch Community Center 4703 Lone Tree Way, Antioch (925) 776- 3050 3pm - 4pm

June 15 Dancing in the Plaza

50ʼs Sock Hop Plaza Park Mt Diablo Blvd & Moraga Rd. Lafayette (925) 204 - 7404 7pm- 9pm

June 18 13th Annual Best Martini in the East Bay Contest

Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa 3287 Mount Diablo Boulevard Lafayette (925) 927 - 3250 6pm - 8pm

June 18 - 22 Color Bundles Art Studio Summer Camps 220 A. Alamo Plaza Alamo, (925) 727- 3137 2 Sessions/Day 10am - 1pm or 2 pm- 5pm

June 20 June Wine Walk

Starting: Residual Sugar Wine bar 1684 Locust St., Walnut Creek 6pm - 9pm, $30/advance, $40/at the door

June 22 Dancing in the Park

Square Dancing Plaza Park Mt. Diablo Blvd. & Moraga Rd. Lafayette (925) 284 - 7404 7pm- 9pm

Pajama Party!

Story Time & Dance Party San Ramon Library 100 Montgomery St., San Ramon (925) 973 - 2850 6 pm- 7pm; ages 0- 11

June 25 - 28 Kids Yoga Camp & Creative Play

Bloom Retreat 1444 S. Main St.,Walnut Creek (925) 939 - MAMA 1:45pm - 3:15pm Ages 4- 8 Instructor: Rose Syriani

June 25 - 29 Color Bundles Art Studio Summer Camps 220 A Alamo Plaza, Alamo (925) 727- 3137 2 Sessions/Day 10am - 1pm or 2pm- 5pm

June 29 Dancing in the Plaza

“Friday” Night Fever Plaza Park Mt. Diablo Blvd. & Moraga Rd. Lafayette (925) 204 - 7404 7pm- 9pm

ACTIVE KIDS 11

2012 East Bay - Farmer’s

Bay Area

Year round www.pcfma.com

June 8 Parents Day Out

Playcare Childcare Santana Row 3055 Olin Ave., San Jose 8am - 2pm $7/child, $4/additional RSVP 24 hours in advance (408) 207-1210 Every Friday

June 9 - 10 Maddieʼs Fund®

3rd Annual Maddieʼs® Matchmaker Adoptathon FREE adoptions of dogs and cats will be offered.

More than 80 locations throughout Alameda, Contra Costa & SF Counties.

94th Annual Livermore Rodeo 3000 Robertson Park Rd. Livermore (925) 447 - 3008 June 6: Rodeo Mixer June 7: Family Night

June 11 - 17 Bring a Friend FREE Day

Gilroy Gardens 3050 Hecker Pass Rd., Gilroy (408) 840- 7100 Mon- Fri: 11am- 5pm Sat & Sun: 10am- 6pm Each member receive 1 FREE ticket for a friend

2012 East Bay

Farmer’s Markets Alameda Haight & Webster Tuesday & Saturday, 9am -1 pm Year round www.pcfma.com

Antioch

Kaiser Permanente 4501 Sand Creek Rd Thursday 10am –2 pm April 19 - October 25 www.pcfma.com

Delta Fair Blvd & Somersville Rd. Sunday, 9 am - 1pm May 13 - September 30 www.pcfma.com

Berkeley

Derby St. & Martin Luther King Jr. Way Tuesday, 2pm - 7pm Year round www.ecologycenter.org Shattuck Ave. at Rose St. Thursday 3pm - 7pm Year round www.ecologycenter.org Corner of Center St. & Martin Luther King Jr. Way Saturdays, 10am - 3 pm Year round www.ecologycenter.org

Brentwood

First Street btwn Chestnut St. and Oak St. 12 ACTIVE KIDS

Saturday, 8am - 12pm March 31- November 17 www.pcfma.com

Concord

Todos Santos Plaza Willow Pass & Grant St Tuesday 10am–2pm Year round Thursday 4pm–8pm April 26 - October 25 www.pcfma.com

Danville

Moraga

Moraga Center Moraga Center & Moraga Way Sunday, 9am - 1pm Year round www.cafarmersmkts.com

Orinda

Orinda Way in Orinda Village Saturday, 9 am -1 pm March 3 - November 17 www.cccfm.org

Pleasant Hill

Crescent Drive at Downtown Plaza Saturday, 9 am -1 pm May 5 - November 17 www.pcfma.com

Railroad & Prospect Ave. Saturday, 9 am - 1pm Year round www.pcfma.com

Markets

Pleasanton

Corner of W. Angela & Main Saturday, 9 am -1 pm Year round www.pcfma.com

San Ramon

Bishop Ranch 2 Bollinger Canyon Road & Sunset Drive Across from Whole Foods at The Shops at Bishop Ranch Saturday, 9 am -1 pm Year round www.sanramonfarmersmarket. org

Walnut Creek

N Locust St May- Nov: Sunday, 8am -1 pm Dec- April: Sunday, 9am -1 pm Year round www.cccfm.org

Diablo Valley Shadelands Office Complex Mitchell Dr & N Wiget Ln Saturday, Sunday, 9am -1 pm Year round www.cafarmersmkts.com Kaiser Permanente 1425 S Main St Tuesday, 10 am -2pm Year round www.pcfma.com Rossmoor Gateway Clubhouse parking lot Corner of Golden Rain Rd. & Tice Creek Dr. Friday, 9:30am–12pm May 18 - October 28 www.cafarmersmkts.com

Century Landscape & Gardening

Dublin

Emerald Glen Community Park Thursday 4pm–8pm May 3 - September 27 www.pcfma.com

Residential and Business Maintenance All work Guaranteed!

Call 925-819-0266 or centurylandscape55@hotmail.com for free estimate!

Lafayette

Plaza Park Moraga & Mt. Diablo Blvd Thursday 3:30pm–7pm www.cccfm.org

Livermore

Carnegie Park Third & J St Thursday 4pm–8pm May 17- October 18 www.pcfma.com Railroad Ave. & L Street (Historic Train Depot) Sunday, 10am–2pm

activekidsdirector y.com

June 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 13

ALAMO PET STORE

Want to see your business here?

Visit us online for SUMMER CAMP details

$ 10 OFF

Any Purchase of $40 or more 170-A Alamo Plaza • Alamo • 838-3828 • alamopetstore.com

Spanish Immersion Classes & Camps Engaging curriculum uses music, art & games Experienced, dynamic teachers Ages toddlers to teens Small class sizes

Contact us at

info@activekidsbayarea.com

Mention ACTIVE KIDS and receive a FREE First time trial class!

for more info.

www.vivaelespanol.org • 925-962-9177 Alameda • Lafayette • Pleasanton • San Francisco

Horizons East Equestrian Center Showing & Training for both children & adults. Toddler Lessons, Riding School, Ladies Boot Camps, Summer Camps & Birthday Parties!

5111 Doolan Rd., Livermore (925) 960 - 9696 • www.showstables.com

14 ACTIVE KIDS

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June 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 15

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Summer Enrichment Programs

Clay Studio with a Twist!

New Art Studio in Alamo

CAMPS

Art Classes, Parties & Camps June 11 - Aug. 10, Mon. - Fri. 3 hour sessions, 2 sessions/day Ages 8 & up, Co-ed No camp July 1st - 6th

www.colorbundles.com (925)727-3137 • 220A Alamo Plaza, Alamo

An Adventure in Learning Begins June 25, 2012!

Soaosnanton! g n i n e p O s in Ple ools.com

ampu tfordSch NewnCmore at Str2a5) 918-5667 Lear

(9 or Call

S Creative Art, Music & Science Adventures S Enriching Academics for Kindergarten Prep S Flexible Full & Half-Day Camp Options Summer enrollment forms are available online. Learn more, call us or visit

www.StratfordSchools.com/Summer Danville Sycamore Valley 2615 Camino Tassajara Road Next to East Bay Fellowship Church

(925) 648-0500 Danville Blackhawk 3201 Camino Tassajara Road Corner of Old Blackhawk Road

(925) 648-4900 Connect With Us

William Schlicher, DMD, MS Dr. Will is dedicated to providing your family with exceptional treatment in a modern, professional & comfortable office.

• Specialized orthodontics for children & adults • Complimentary initial consultation • In- office digital xray imaging reducing radiation by 50% • Esthetic options include Invisalign, ceramic “clear” braces, & braces behind the teeth • Trained at Harvard & UC San Francisco

www.PleasantonOrtho.com

(925) 846-3248

1472 Cedarwood Ln., Pleasanton

Preschool State License Numbers: 073402482, 073406680, 013420939.

16 ACTIVE KIDS

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June 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 17

Bulldog Soccer 4 Day Camp

Camp Spotlight Follow the Active Kids Summer Camp Series!

Check out our Summer Camp Spotlight & discover all of the amazing choices out there!

Color Bundles Summer Camp: 220A Alamo Plaza, Alamo • (925) 727-3137, www.colorbundles.com/summer-camp Color Bundles offers a variety of summer camps this summer, from Clay Workshops and Fashion Design, to Jewelry Making and Acrylic Painting. They offer a Day Camp, including 2 sessions per day, and a Coed camp offered Mondays-Fridays from 10am -1pm. One session is $40. Supplies will be provided for all camp activities as well. Some summer camp project ideas include designing your own pair of shoes then making them out of clay (in the Clay Workshop), or creating your own headband or custom necklace in the Jewelry Making class. No matter what project you pick, Color Bundles is the perfect place for any artist!

with Coach Quang Superior Technical training, Player Development & Fun, Positive Environment • Age appropriate camps (Lunch included) • July - August 2012 • Ages 5 - 12

Bear Valley Mountain Summer Camps: California 207, Bear Valley • (209) 753-2301, www.bearvalley.com/summer-camp -2012 Bear Valleyʼs Summer Camps offer outdoor recreation programs for the whole family. There are skills camps for older kids and adults and day camps for the little campers. Both “Day” camps and “overnight” camps are also offered. Campers attending the multi-day sessions will participate in a primary activity and enjoy a selection of outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, hiking, climbing, mountain biking, camp fires, arts and crafts and more. Every day there is an evening program for overnight campers to enjoy for more fun with friends and family.

Summer Day Camp is offered June 18- August 10, Archery Camp is July 9 -12, Soccer Camps are July 16-19, and Climbing Camp is July 22 - 28.

Bulldog Soccer Camps: DVMS (Diablo Vista Middle School) Grass Fields, 4100 Camino Tassajara Rd., Danville (925) 212-2682, www.bulldogsoccer.com/camps.html At Bulldog Soccer their goal is to help kids (ages 5 -12) develop a love for the game of soccer, develop the skills necessary to succeed at whatever level the player wants to play at and learn valuable life lessons, such as good sportsmanship, the importance of teamwork, and having a positive attitude. They use a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on fundamental, technical, tactical, & functional training. Their team is dedicated to making your childʼs soccer experience positive and fun. Camps are offered 9am-12pm July 16 -19, July 23-26, August 7-10, and August 13-16. They also offer a “Fit N Fast” program for ages 18 months – 6 years (held at Velocity Sports in Dublin) that helps players improve balance and coordination, hand-eye coordination, speed and more! Mention Active Kids for the FIRST CLASS FREE. Training programs are also available, contact Coach Quang Hamon at QLHamon@aol.com for more details.

Mention Active Kids and receive an exclusive $50 special discount!

18 ACTIVE KIDS

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Mention Active Kids & receive an exclusive $50 special discount!

Register today! www.bulldogsoccer.com • 925.212.2682

Fit N Fast Kids

Promoting a Healthy & Active Lifestyle for Future Athletes

• Become quicker, faster, more agile, improve balance & coordination, hand/eye coordination & more!

• Exposure to all types of sports; baseball, basketball, football, soccer & volleyball • Build confidence & a love for sports!

• Ages 18 Mos. - 6 years Fit N Fast Kids trains at Velocity Sports in Dublin

Mention Active Kids for the FIRST CLASS FREE ! (exp. 12/21/12) ACTIVE KIDS 19 at www.bulldogsoccer.com or 925.212.2682

JuneRegister 2012

N’ THE ULTIMATE I K C O R TRAMPOLINE PARK

How to Encourage Healthy Snacking

$39.99 Family Fun Pack

Includes (4) 1-hr. Jump Sessions, 1 large Pizza & 2 Liter Bottle of Soda.

by Susan Stiffleman As with everything else, the more needy you come across to your children when you want them to do something, the more you run the risk of activating their instinct to do the opposite, especially when they are feeling out of sorts or less connected to you (and therefore less eager to please.)

When you offer your children good food to snack on, try not to come across as though you care so much about whether they eat it. Put the food out in a friendly way, and then busy yourself doing something else. If you hover, or try to sell them on how wonderful the snacks are, they may resist simply because of what I call "MOM TV," which is when our dramatic reactions to our children's behavior is so interesting that it fuels them to further misbehave! Here's my advice: • Don't feel obligated to ask your children what they want for their after- school snack if you know it will trigger whining for unhealthy options. Instead, put out things like apples with nut butter, yogurt, or guacamole and chips, rotating what you set out for them to munch on. While some children are what I call "monoeaters," wanting the same foods every day, most kids enjoy a little variety, and will be more likely to eat if you mix up the foods you set out for them to snack on.

Text “JUMP” to 65374 for Exclusive Discounts.

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 7.4.12

Birthday Parties 12 Kids Starting 12 Kids Starting at $200 Private Party Room & Up to 2 hours of Jump!

Visit our website for details.

Valid through 7.4.12

FREE 2nd Hour of Jump (Monday - Thursday) Valid through 7.4.12

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

• Let them see you eating and enjoying the snacks you offer! Sitting down with your children to savor a few minutes of down time and reconnect while refueling is a great way to model healthy snacking. If you're grabbing a bite while you scurry around the kitchen, you'll make it less appealing to your kids to enjoy the yummy food you've prepared!

• Presentation is everything, and kids are masters of creativity, so let them have fun helping you lay out the snacks in an interesting way. They might decorate a dish of yogurt by making a funny face with raisins, or arrange the chips in a special way around the guacamole. It doesn't take much time to make food look appealing, and it makes children much more interested in eating something when they've been responsible for serving it up in a "fancy" way!

Add relaxed connection and fun to the recipe when you serve up your healthy snacks, and your children will naturally choose to eat the wonderful foods you offer! Bon appetit!

Susan Stiffelman is a licensed Marriage, Family and Child Counselor, an Educational Therapist, Parent Educator and Professional Speaker. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Developmental Psychology, a California K-9 Teaching Credential, a Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, and a California Marriage and Family Therapist license since 1991. Visit her website www.passionateparenting.net and be sure to sign up for her free Parenting Without Power Struggles newsletter!

20 ACTIVE KIDS

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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” 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

June 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 21

Are Genetically Modified Foods Making Your Child Sick?

by Dina Colman

Check out our amazing Pinterest boards: Lunch Box

Ideas, Indoor Play, Party Ideas, Moms Fashion, Kids Couture, & More! www.pinterest.com/activekids

Today, 8% of children have a food allergy. A food allergy is a condition in which the immune system incorrectly identifies a food protein as a threat and attempts to protect the body against it by releasing chemicals into the blood. The release of these chemicals results in the symptoms of an allergic reaction. If your child reacts to a food by vomiting, diarrhea, rash, or other unusual symptom, this could signal a food allergy or sensitivity.

The most allergenic foods for children (and adults) are milk, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, fish, and shellfish. These eight foods account for 90% of food allergies. According to a study released in 2008 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there was an 18% increase in food allergies between 1997 and 2007.

One possible reason that food allergies have increased so much in the past decade is the introduction of genetically modified foods. Beginning in the 1990s, new proteins were engineered into our food supply in order to maximize the profitability for the food industry.

This makes perfect sense from a business standpoint, but it is unfortunate from a health standpoint.

An example is milk. In 1994, in order to drive profits for dairy, scientists created a new genetically engineered protein and synthetic growth hormone to inject into cows to make them produce more milk. As a result, the cows got sick which meant an increase in the use of antibiotics. There were no human trials conducted to see if the genetically modified product had any health consequences. Governments from countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and all 27 countries in Europe said that they were not going to allow this into their milk supply since it was not proven safe. The U.S., on the other hand, did allow it because it had not been proven unsafe. Milk is only one of many examples of genetically modified food in this country.

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Because other countries do not allow artificial growth hormones, food dyes derived from petrochemicals, and genetically engineered ingredients into their food supplies, global companies must make a different version to compete in the marketplace abroad. For example, Kraftʼs Mac & Cheese in the U.K. has very different ingredients than the U.S. version. The U.K. version of Mac & Cheese has no dyes and fewer (better) ingredients.

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22 ACTIVE KIDS

What can we do? As moms, we can opt for whole foods that do not contain hormones or pesticides, or that have been genetically modified. As voters, we can encourage the government to follow suit like the other countries and put a stop to allowing genetically modified foods. As consumers, we should demand the healthier version of products from food manufacturers.

If you are concerned about food allergies for you or your child, you can try an elimination diet. For guidance, contact Dina Colman, Healthy Living Coach and Nutritionist at Bloom.

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activekidsdirector y.com

Dina Colman is a healthy living coach and nutritionist at Bloom in Walnut Creek, a mothers retreat center designed to be the support system every mother needs. Make an appointment with Dina through www.BloomRetreat.com or find us on Facebook: Bloom: A Retreat for Mothers. A Treat for Children. Call (925) 939-6262 or come by at 1444 S Main in Walnut Creek.

June 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 23

ht g i l t o p S

www.kidsteensworld.com

NOW OPEN IN DANVILLE “THE ROSE GARDEN” COME IN FOR NEW STORE SPECIALS!

Kids and Teens World, currently with store locations in San Ramon and Danville, is the local place to shop when looking for affordable, premium new bedroom and playroom furniture, storage solutions and desks, as well as outdoor playsets, trampolines, sandboxes and playhouses for kids. But where did this local gem come from?

What makes it unique to other local businesses? We got the inside scoop from Kids and Teens World owner, Jason Heinemann.

A local East Bay Dad, Jason has been in the furniture business since 1992, and opened his own store in 2006. The store has grown considerably and is one of very few places in the greater Bay Area that is truly dedicated to selling only kids furniture.

They are also unique and one of a kind since they carry play structures and playsets …a true one- stop shop!

Jason is excited about the move to Danville and says, “The Rose Garden has been something I've had my eyes on for a few years now. They offered us a long - term home which means a lot to my family. Everyone here seems to compliment each other.” He has high hopes for this location and looking forward to his grand opening on Memorial Day Weekend.

One of the best aspects of this wonderful business is the small, local family that owns it. Jason grew up in the East Bay and his wife Heather is from Pleasanton. The couple have three children and are thrilled to be serving the local families of the Valley. They are both passionate about offering quality products as well as exceptional service. As parents they know just how important these two things are.

740 CAMINO RAMON {Danville}

www.kidsnteensworld.com

925.837.7170

kids&teensWORLD {specializing in} quality furniture | outdoor play structures | trampolines

Sunday, July 8 2:30pm

The kids even get in on the action. Jason tells us that they love getting their pick of the coolest room sets. He also confirms that theyʼve “had some pretty cool rooms in a short period of time.” Not only do they reap some fun benefits, but they also help with design and style of the storeʼs products. “I ask my kids for their opinion quite often. As they approach their teen years it's very interesting to see their changing taste in the style of furniture. We have incorporated those changes in our store and my talented wife designs all our ads.” What are Jasonʼs favorite products? Right now he loves their bunkbeds with stairs that also provide drawers for storage, “Great space saver and safe!”

Lesher Center for the Arts 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek

So what does the future have in store for this family owned business? Jason explained that he looks forward to having a thriving local business and to serve the community the best way he can. “It's difficult to keep business local and not have people buy online. We feel with our competitive prices, products and service that it is possible. It's very important to shop local and support your community.”

For Tickets Call (925) 943-SHOW 74 9 6

But this family business is not always a walk in the park. Late nights and a dedicated and supportive family have helped it succeed. “Until you find hard working employees you have to do a lot of work yourself. We finally made it to that point, however I've always been hands on. From sealing to delivering I like to do it all.”

• Award Winning Magician

So what would Jason say to a new, aspiring business owner? “Be very careful about what you sign and make sure you can handle stress. You also must be hands on so you can fully understand all aspects of your business.”

• Amazing Illusions

So the next time you are looking for fun, functional furniture, or want to create a fun outdoor experience for your kids, head down to Kids and Teens World in Danville …tell Jason we sent you!

24 ACTIVE KIDS

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• One Day Only • Fun for all Ages

www.LesherArtCenter.org June 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 25

got insurance?

What Every Guy Should Know

Paying too much for COBRA? Laid off? College student need coverage?

by Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh One in six couples has difficulty getting pregnant in this country. 50% of the time, itʼs because of a sperm issue. There are steps you can take to improve sperm count and hopefully shorten the time to a successful pregnancy. Although you may have conceived easily in the past, semen quality can change over time and there are several reasons why:

1. Lifestyle factors: Drinking too much alcohol can affect sperm quality.

Studies show that men who drink more than 4 servings per week may have a sperm issue. Cigarette smoke and nicotine containing products are also toxic to sperm cells. They affect the ability of the sperm cells to swim. Being overweight may cause excess heat transmission to the testicle and hormone imbalances that also decrease sperm quality. Stress can also affect your sex drive. Laptops, saunas and steam rooms all heat up the testicles and can decrease sperm quality. The good news is that the sperm life cycle is short – only a couple months. So any lifestyle changes you make today, can improve your chances in a short period of time. Taking vitamins can also help.

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2. Anatomic issues: If you have groin pain, you may have a varicocoele. A varicocoele is a dilated vein around the testicle which transmits heat to the sperm cells and decreases their fertilization potential. Your doctor will be able to do a simple exam to assess you for a varicocoele 3. Hormonal issues: You may be feeling tired because of a stressful work life

FERTILITY SPECIALIST

but it could be also explained by a hormonal imbalance that is also affecting your sperm quality and ability to conceive. Simple blood tests will help you determine if a hormonal issue is affecting your ability to conceive. A low testosterone level, low Vitamin D level, and abnormal thyroid function can affect both your mood and your sperm quality.

4. Medications: There are several medications that can decrease sperm quality. Review the medications you take with your doctor and confirm that they are safe to take when trying to get pregnant.

A fertility specialist can order a semen analysis for you. This simple test can help you figure out why youʼre not getting pregnant easily. Depending on the results, your doctor may speak to you about options such as intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilization, and other procedures to give your swimmers the boost they need.

Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, is a native of the Bay Area. She is a graduate of UCLA School of Medicine. After completing her residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, she completed a fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility at University of Michigan. She also completed a Masters in Public Health in Health Management and Policy at University of Michigan.

Dr. Aimee is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and continues to contribute to research in the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. You can learn more on her website: www.draimee.org

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activekidsdirector y.com

Bringing

hope to life

“I never take the awesome miracles of modern science for granted. Being able to help couples have children and then holding their babies is the best part of my job.”

• Harvard trained, leading infertility expert • Most advanced infertility treatments available today • Individualized & compassionate care • Specializing in all complex infertility cases 5401 Norris Canyon Road, Ste. 106 • San Ramon, CA • (925) 277- 0600 www.draimee.org • www.facebook.com/infertilitydoctor

June 2011

ACTIVE KIDS 27

www.cityofconcord.org/recreation

Director: Sarah Jackson Ages: 2-4 years Our Program is a positive first school experience for the young child. We offer programs for two, three and four year olds.

Preschool Guide Ready for Preschool?!

Play Based? Academic? Montessori? Public? Private?

Christian? Year - Round? Half - Day?

The decision can be overwhelming so weʼve helped by rounding up the best of the best!

Find some of the areaʼs most enriching preschool programs below.

For more information go to www.ActiveKidsBayArea.com

Alamo The Dorris Eaton School 1286 Stone Valley Road 925.837.7240 www.dorriseaton.com Director: Julie Bush Ages: Preschool and Jr. Kindergarten Meadowlark Childrenʼs Center 2964 Miranda Avenue 925.837.8792

www.meadowlarkchildrenscenter.com

Director: Giovana Merritt Ages: 2.9 – 5 years Providing an enriching and nurturing environment for preschoolers for over 20 years.

Antioch The Child Day Schools

112 E. Tregallas Road 925.754.0144 www.tcdschools.com Director: Kathy Coletto Ages: 2 – School Age

La Petite Academy 1350 E. Tregallas Road 925.779.0110 www.lapetite.com Director: Lorna Hearn Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years Infant/Toddler program now offered! Summer Camp too!

Little Lulu's Christian Preschool 2725 Minta Lane 925.754.7771 Director: Betty Hutchison Ages: 2 – 6 years Kindergarten readiness and all Day Care.

So Big Co-op Preschool

1201 W. 10th Street 925.757.6474 www.sobigpreschool.org Director: Mary Halbasch Ages: 2 – 5 years

Brentwood Childhaven Preschool 1135 Brookdale Drive 925.516.0856 www.childhavenpreschool.com

Director: Laura Firpo, RN Ages: 2.5 – 5 years We combine the comfort of home with a preschool

St. Michael & All Angels Preschool

2925 Bonifacio Street 925.685.8862 www.saintmichaelsconcord.org Director: Amy Calkins Ages: 2 – 6 years or first grade entry

Danville

www.mydiscoverypreschool.com

Childrenʼs Academy of Danville 2425 Camino Tassajara 925.736.3336 www.kindercare.com Director: Sue Dalton Ages: 2 – 6 years Summer Camp and Fall enrollment open NOW!

Kids Talk Spanish 1282 Prominent Drive 925.822.5980 www.kidstalkspanish.com Director: Thanya Holland Ages: 2- 11+ years

Community Presbyterian Preschool 222. W. El Pintado Road 925.837.3316 www.cpcdanville.org Director: Kaaren Slocum Ages: 2 – 5 years CPPʼs caring Christian staff creatively balances a developmentally appropriate complete curriculum with happy play.

classroom learning environment.

Discovery Preschool & Daycare Discovery Christian School 605 Harvest Park Drive Suite A 925.634.2002 Director: Tonja Bryant Ages: 2 – 6 years & Kindergarten – 12th grade Raising the standard of schooling through academic excellence and quality instruction. FT, PT or Drop-In.

Concord City of Concord Preschool Program 2 convenient locations 925.671.3118

Dayspring Preschool 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd.

925.389.2044 www.dayspringpreschool.org Director: Janice Inman Ages: 2.9 – 5 years

An Exceptional Learning Community!

EXPLORE-LEARN-GROW Fun Summer Programs!

Garden Montessori School

495 Verona Avenue 925.837-2969 www.gardenschool.net Director: Jaye Perry Ages: 3 – 6 years

Stratford School Danville Blackhawk 3201 Camino Tassajara 925.648.4900 www.stratfordschools.com Ages: Preschool & Pre Kindergarten Stratfordʼs Preschool Program features art, music, phonics, math, Spanish and science.

The BEST preparation for a lifetime of learning!

Stratford School Danville Sycamore Valley 2615 Camino Tassajara 925.648.0500 www.stratfordschools.com Ages: Preschool, Pre Kindergarten and Jr. Kindergarten Discover Stratford. Come for a tour, stay for a lifetime of learning. Offering full day programs and extended care.

Tree of Life Learning Center 1800 Holbrook Drive Danville, CA 94526 www.treeoflifelearningcenter.c om Director: Kelley Cohen Ages 2 – 5 years We are committed to providing an outstanding early childhood education program that

promotes cognitive, social, emotional, physical and spiritual development.

Valley Parent Cooperative Preschool

935 Camino Ramon 925.837.5401 www.valleyparent.org Director: Sarah Bradford Ages: 2.9 to 5 years

Dublin Valley Christian Preschool 7500 Inspiration Drive 925.560-6262 www.valleychristainschools.org Director: Jerri Schall Ages: 2 – 12th grade It is our desire to provide hands-on activities with Biblical, topical, and academics to create a well-rounded learning experience for each child

Lafayet te Joyful Beginnings Preschool

955 Moraga Road 925.284.1143 www.thelumc.org/ministries/ joyful-beginnings-preschool Director: Lynne Connors Ages: 2.9 – Kindergarten entry Wirlybirds Treehouse

1085 Marguerite Court 925.310.4429 www.wirlybirds.com Director: Marty Woehrle Ages: 15 months – 10 years (after school care)

Livermore Kinderkirk Preschool 2020 Fifth Street 925.455.0793 www.fpcl.us/kinderkirkpreschool Director: Raymie Tindle Ages: 21 months – 5 years Part-time developmentally appropriate, enrichment programs taught by fully qualified, experienced teachers Las Positas College Child Development Center 3000 Campus Hill Drive Building 2300 925.424.1560 www.laspositascollege.edu childdevelopmentcenter Director: Corinna Calica Ages: 15 months – 5 years We are a developmental early-education program that is open to all families, offers half and full-day enrollment, and believes in a play-based, emergent and child-centered approach to learning.

Oakley A Jump Ahead Preschool

1020 Woodglen Drive 925.679.9096

www.ajumpaheadpreschool.com

Director: Karen Baldwin Ages: 3 – 5 years

Pleasanton Adventures in Learning 3200 Hopyard Road 925.462.7123

30 ACTIVE KIDS

www.harvestvalley.org Director: Lynne Allen Ages: 2 – 6 years Where lifelong learning begins

children grow optimally to fulfill their full potential.

Quarry Lane Preschool 3750 Boulder Street 925.846.9400 www.quarrylane.org Director: Jennifer Silva Ages: Infant – Pre Kindergarten Come discover our half day and full day academic programs with a balance of music, computer, art, science, foreign language and more.

Best Friends Campus

2828 Marina Avenue 925.249.1868 www.bestfriendscampus.com Director: Any Cheng Ages: 0 – 10 years

Busy Bees Preschool 4300 Mirador Drive

925.249.9000 www.busybeespleasanton.com Director: Maggie Lam Ages: 2 – 12

Centerpointe Christian Preschool

3410 Cornerstone Court 925.461.3011 www.centerpointepreschool.org Director: Greg Robitaille Ages: 2 - Kinder The Child Day Schools

883 Rose Avenue Phone: 925.462.1866 www.tcdschools.com Director: Lindsay Clow Ages: 2 - 5 The Early Years

Shining Light Preschool

1251 Hopyard Road 925.462.2202 www.earlyyearschildrenscenter. com Director: Sheryl Common Ages: 2 – 5th grade Hacienda Child Development Center 4671 Chabot Drive 925.462.2885 www.headsup.org Director: Imelda Acosta Ages: 0 – 6 years HeadsUp! Creates educational environments that help

Quarry Lane Preschool 4444B Black Avenue 925.462.6300 www.quarrylane.org Director: Katie Warren Ages: Preschool – Pre Kindergarten Come discover our half day and full day academic programs with a balance of music, computer, art, science, foreign language and more.

4455 Del Valle Parkway 925.846.2588 www.vcclive.org Director: Kelly McIntosh Ages: 2 – 5 years

Stratford School 4576 Willow Road Pleasanton, CA 94588 925.918.5667 www.stratfordschools.com Ages: Preschool through Elementary New Campus in Pleasanton!

Now accepting applications for preschool through 5th grade.

Schedule a tour today!

activekidsdirector y.com

San Ramon The Child Day Schools

18868 Bollinger Canyon Road San Ramon, CA 94583 925.820.2515 www.tcdschools.com Director: Ruth Valdes Ages: 12 Months – 5 years Happy Days Preschool

20801 San Ramon Valley Blvd.

San Ramon, CA 94583 925.828.8007 www.thechurchonthehill.nextm eta.com/content.cfm?id=2008 Director: Kim Smith Ages: 2.5 to 5 years Little Genius Montessori 6837 Amador Valley Blvd.

Dublin, CA 94568 925.803.5867 www.geniusmontessorilc.com Ages: 2 – 6 years Our Goal at Little Genius Montessori is to give you and your child the best possible experience through learn and play

Walnut Creek Contra Costa Christian Schools 2721 Larkey Lane Walnut Creek, CA 94597 925.934.4964 ext. 230 www.cccss.org Director: Cordy Porto Ages: 2 – 5 years Providing a safe and loving environment where our program helps shepherd young children through the most influential years of their life.

Marc h 2012

NorthCreek Preschool

2303A Ygnacio Valley Road Walnut Creek, CA 94598 925.954.6321 www.ncapschool.org Director: Julie Dalman Ages: 2 – 5 years

The Seven Hills School 975 North San Carlos Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94598 925.933.0666 www.sevenhillsschool.org Director: Shauna Mavaccini Ages: 2.9 years and up At Seven Hills Preschool, we get our students kindergartenready through purposeful play fueled by natural curiosity and guided by experienced teachers.

Don't see your school?

Get Listed!

Contact us today to be included in our Preschool Guide. info@activekidsbayarea.com or call 925.789.0709

Trinity Lutheran Preschool

2317 Buena Vista Avenue Walnut Creek, CA 94597 925.935.3362 www.tlcchurch.org Director: Stephanie Schmidt Ages: 2 – 6 years Walnut Avenue Christian Community Preschool 260 Walnut Avenue Walnut Creek, CA 94598 925.937.7063 www.waccp.org Director: Streeta Farrell Ages: 15 months – 6 years A non-profit organization & year- round program dedicated to helping children develop physically, intellectually, socially, emotionally, & spiritually.

ACTIVE KIDS 31

Getting Men to the Doctor

Summer BBQ Recipes

The weather is now screaming for outdoor BBQs & parties...but what recipes are kid - friendly, approved by adults, and easy to make? Check out a couple of our top picks here!

Potato Pizzette Bites Ingredients: • 1 large potato (Yukon gold or similar) skin on and thoroughly washed • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 3 tablespoons tomato sauce • 1/2 cup grated cheddar or mozzarella Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 400 F 2. Cut 8 large slices of potato, cutting crosswise from the center of the potato (around 1/12 inch thick) 3. Brush each slice with oil, and season with salt and pepper 4. Lay slices on baking sheet lined with non-stick baking parchment 5. Bake for 10 minutes 6. Turn slices over and bake for 8-10 more minutes until golden crisp 7. Top each slice with 1 tsp tomato sauce, sprinkle with cheese (add sliced red onion, feta cheese, pepperoni, or any other toppings you chose) 8. Bake for 5- 7 minutes (or grill 2 -3 minutes)

Fruit Skewers with Dipping Sauce Ingredients:

• 1/4 honeydew or other green melon, seeded • 1/2 large mango, peeled, or approx. 5 ounces prepared mango • 8 medium strawberries, hulled • 8 skewers Creamy Caramel Dip:

• 1/4 cup dulce de leche • 4 teaspoons heavy cream Directions: 1. Cut fruit into cubes; thread 3 pieces per skewer 2. Mix together dulce de leche and cream to make the dip 3. Spoon dip into small bowls and serve with fruit skewers!

32 ACTIVE KIDS *recipes brought to you by DisneyFamily.com* activekidsdirector y.com

by John Muir Health Celebrate Fatherʼs Day this year by encouraging the men in your life to schedule a check-up.

While most men can tell you the maintenance schedule for their cars, few know how often they should visit the doctor at various ages.

In fact, a recent survey of 2,282 men and women conducted by the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) found that 55 percent of men hadnʼt had a physical examination in the past year. One in four men admitted they wait “as long as possible” before seeking medical help. The medical implications, not to mention the financial impact, of these statistics can be devastating if not addressed. However, there is some hopeful news: 78 percent of men said their spouse or significant other had some influence over their decision to get to the doctor.

How best to influence the men in your life?

• Try gently nudging, but never nagging, says the AAFP. Remember, youʼre on the same team!

• Warning him about health dangers may backfire. (Many men report that they mainly avoid the doctor out of fear that something may be wrong with them.)

• Talk with him about positive experiences youʻve had getting care and encourage him to talk with his own doctor about any concerns that have kept him from getting check-ups, including procedures he might feel are personally invasive.

• Finally, remind him that getting accurate information — whether itʼs a cholesterol reading or nutrition advice — is what will help empower him to stay in good health.

Once they agree to the appointment, preparation is key. Studies show that the average woman will ask four questions during a doctorʼs appointment; the average man asks none. Patients should be sure to write down questions beforehand and have them ready to discuss with the doctor. Also, it is a good idea to bring an updated list of all medications with the dose, directions, reason for taking, and name of the physician who prescribed them.

Finally, itʼs essential to compile knowledge about family health history.

Patients should ask about family histories of cancers and heart disease. These can help identify certain health priorities, and may be helpful in establishing a routine screening calendar.

John Muir Health serves patients in Contra Costa, eastern Alameda and southern Solano Counties with a full-range of medical services. It includes a network of 925 primary care and specialty physicians, medical centers in Concord and Walnut Creek and a Behavioral Health Center. For more information, visit www.johnmuirhealth.com.

To find a doctor at John Muir Health visit johnmuirhealth.com/findadoctor or call (925) 952-2887, option 1 to speak with our physician referral team.

May 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 33

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Be sure to “like” us on Facebook & keep checking back for contest details.

You can also ENTER on our website: www.ActiveKidsBayArea.com August 2011 ACTIVE KIDS 35!

Everyday Art

by Christine Carter A lot of parents believe that their children are either born with artistic talent or theyʼre not. But research suggests that artistic creativity, along with other kinds of creativity, is more of a skill than an inborn talent, and itʼs a skill parents can help their kids develop.

Many researchers believe we have fundamentally changed the experience of childhood in a way that impairs creative development. Toy and entertainment companies provide an endless stream of prefab characters, images, props, and plotlines that allow kids to put their imaginations to rest. Children no longer need to pretend a stick is a sword in a game or story theyʼve imagined; they can play Star Wars with a readymade light-saber, in costumes designed for the specific role theyʼre playing.

But researchers have also identified steps we can take to help kids tap into their own creative potential. Drawing on that research, here are some ideas for fostering creativity in kids.

1. Provide the resources for creative expression. The key resource here is

time. Kids need a lot of time for unstructured, child - directed, imaginative play — unencumbered by adult direction, and independent of a lot of commercial stuff. Research by Kathy Hirsch-Pasek of Temple University, among others, has found that children attending academic preschools show no advantage in reading or math achievement over kids who go to play-based preschools. But they do tend to have higher levels of test anxiety, exhibit less creativity, and have more negative attitudes toward school. Look for resources that help kids create but that donʼt tell them what to create. Iʼve been amazed by some of the things my kids do with art supplies, cheap cameras, old costumes, and building materials.

2. Make your home a Petri dish for creativity. At dinnertime, for example,

brainstorm activities for the upcoming weekend, encouraging the kids to come up with things theyʼve never done before. Resist pointing out which ideas arenʼt possible, or deciding which ideas are best. The focus of creative activities should be on the process— generating (vs. evaluating) new ideas.

Another way to nurture a creative atmosphere at home is to encourage kids to take risks, make mistakes, and fail. Yes, fail: In her book Mindset, Stanford researcher Carol Dweck shows that kids who are afraid of failure and judgment will curb their own creative thought. Share the mistakes youʼve made recently, so they get the idea that itʼs okay to flub up.

36 ACTIVE KIDS activekidsdirector y.com

3. Allow kids the freedom and autonomy to explore their ideas. For me, this means not always being so bossy! External constraints — making kids color within the lines, so to speak— can reduce creativity in thinking. In one study, when researchers first showed kids how to make a plane or truck with Legos, kids showed less creativity in their own building than when they were just let loose to make whatever they wanted with the same Lego set.

4. Encourage kids to read for pleasure and participate in the arts, rather than watch TV. Studies by childrenʼs health researcher Dimitri Christakis have found that TV viewing before the age of three can harm kidsʼ language development and attention spans later in life. Studies by Dutch researcher T.H. van der Voort suggest that watching TV might reduce kidsʼ creative imagination, and violent TV shows are associated with a decrease in kidsʼ fantasy play and an increase in aggressiveness. Less screen time means more time for creative activities, like rehearsing a play, learning to draw, or reading every book by a favorite author.

5. Resist the temptation to reward kids for their creativity. A study led by child development researcher Melissa Groves has found that incentives interfere with the creative process, reducing the flexibility of childrenʼs thinking.

Instead of trying to motivate kids with rewards and incentives, we parents sometimes need to back off so that kids can work on the creative activities that theyʼre intrinsically motivated to do. Instead of rewarding a child for practicing the piano, for example, we can encourage her to do something she enjoys more — maybe draw at the kitchen table or dance around the living room.

6. Try to stop caring what your kids achieve. I think this is one of the greatest challenges we parents face in todayʼs ultra- competitive world. But Dweckʼs research is very clear that kids gain confidence from an emphasis on process rather than product. This can be hard advice to follow when our kids come home from school with just the end product of an art project. But whether theyʼre working at home or at school, we can emphasize the creative process by asking questions: Are you finished? What did you like about that activity?

Did you have fun?

Perhaps most importantly, research shows that fostering creativity in our kids will help them with more than art: Creativity is essential to science, math, and even emotional intelligence. Creative people are more flexible and more successful problem solvers, making them better poised to take advantage of new opportunities. So when we nurture the artistic lives of our children, we give them the tools they need to thrive in our rapidly changing world.

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!"

May 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 37

Kids Meal Deals!

Find kidʼs meal deals & kids eat free restaurants in your area.

Alameda County Dublin:

Denny's: 807 Camino Ramon Rd., (925) 820-8240 Tuesday and Saturday from 4pm -10pm: Kids eat FREE with each adult meal purchase.

Casa Orozco: 7995 Amador Valley Blvd., (925) 828-5464, Mondays - 1 FREE kids meal per $11.99 adult entrée (lunch) 1 FREE kids meal per $13.99 adult entrée (dinner)

El Nido Mexican Restaurant: 107 Town & Country Drive, (925) 820-5330, Monday nights receive 1 FREE kid's meal per adult entrée.

Applebee's: 4808 Dublin Blvd., (925) 875-0600

Chevy's: 18080 San Ramon Valley Blvd.,

Wednesdays - Kids eat for $1.99 all day

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.

Livermore:

Dickey's Barbecue Pit: 1524 N Vasco Rd., (925) 606-4200, EVERY DAY - FREE serving of soft vanilla ice cream. Dine-in only. One FREE kidʼs meal with the purchase of every adult meal.

Strings Italian Café: 2205 Las Positas Rd., (925) 373-1044, Mondays after 4pm receive 1 FREE kidʼs meal per adult entrée purchase.

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.

Fresh Choice: 2453 Stoneridge Mall Rd.,

(925) 734 - 8186, Every day kids 2 and under eat FREE. Kids 3-5 years old eat for $1.99. Kids 6-12 eat for $4.99.

Dennyʼs: 6455 Owens Dr., (925) 463- 0720

San Ramon:

(925) 327-1910 Tuesday kids eat FREE with adult meal.

Izzyʼs Steak House and Chops:

200 Montgomery St., (925) 830 - 8620, Sunday and Monday nights kids eat FREE. Pasta Pomodoro: 146 Sunset Dr. #A3, (925) 867-1407, Every Tuesday, kids eat FREE all day.

1 child per adults meal purchased.

Marie Callenderʼs: 18070 San Ramon Valley Blvd., (925) 355-0757, Kids eat FREE Tues. and Sat.

Walnut Creek:

Marie Callenderʼs: 1101 S. California Blvd., (925) 943 - 7100, Every Tuesday and Saturday: Kids eat FREE with adult meal purchase.

Black Bear Diner: 700 Bancroft Road,

(925) 941-0000, Teddy Bear Tuesday: Let your kiddo bring his/her favorite teddy bear & get a FREE kid's meal.

East County Antioch:

Schooner's Grille & Brewery:

4250 Lone Tree Way, (925) 776 -1800, Wednesdays.

One FREE kidʼs meal with each adult meal purchase.

Dennyʼs: 2006 Somersville Rd., (925) 754-1360

& 4823 Lone Tree Way, (925) 757-5105, Kids (10 and under) eat FREE Tuesday nights from 4-10pm with adult entrée.

Kids (10 and under) eat FREE Tuesday nights from 4-10pm with adult entrée.

Brentwood:

TGI Fridayʼs: 3999 Santa Rita Rd., (925) 225 -1995

5601 Lone Tree Way, (925) 240 -1963, Mondays & Tuesdays - Half off kidʼs meal with adult meal purchase.

Kids eat FREE all day Tuesdays.

Contra Costa County Danville:

Maria Maria: 710 Camino Ramon Rd.,

(925) 820 -2366, Tuesday nights, 4pm-closing, $1 tacos

Orale Orale Mexican Restaurant:

Strings Italian Café: 2500 Sand Creek Rd.,

(925) 513-6513, Sunday & Monday after 4pm receive 1 FREE kid's meal per adult entree purchase.

Shirasoni: 6367 Lone Tree Lane, (925) 240-7808 Every Tuesday receive 1 free kid's meal for children 12 & under with a purchase of an adult meal

*Special offers may expire or change at restaurant discretion. Call to confirm current specials.

Here Comes the Sun

by Danielle Federico, M.P.H. Summer is time to exercise outside. From swimming to biking to camp activities, kids are bound to spend more time in the sun. Hydration and sun damage are two concerns when it comes to outdoor fitness.

Children are more prone to dehydration and overheating because their bodies are less capable of perspiring and can produce more heat during exercise. Kids often become so involved in an activity they donʼt notice the signs of dehydration. By the time you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated, so it is important to remind children to drink every 20 minutes. While ice cold drinks sound great in summer heat, people consume less than if the beverage is served at a more moderate temperature. Cool tap water is the best choice. Sport drinks are filled with artificial colors, flavors and added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Caffeinated drinks contribute to dehydration.

Plastic, bottled water contains chemicals that leach from the bottle. Many studies have found that bottled water is no more pure than tap water and often contains BPA from the plastic. The Bay Area has one of the highest water qualities in the US, making your tap the most healthy and affordable choice. When buying a refillable water bottle, choose a plastic one that is BPA-free or opt for stainless steel. Try to get in the habit of carrying one everywhere.

Rash guards and hats are the best sun protection, but rays penetrate clothing, so sunblock is still an important barrier. When it comes to sunblock, there are many options, but they donʼt all provide the same protection. Not only are there many brands, but ingredients as well. Basic sun protection blocks UVB rays. A “broadspectrum” sunblock absorbs UVA rays so that they donʼt reach your skin. They contain multiple ingredients like avobenzone and oxybenzone because none of them can absorb all types of rays. These sunblocks protect for about one hour after application. The best type of sun protection is one that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are the only two ingredients that are physical barriers that deflect the entire UV spectrum from your skin. They are active for about three hours after application and are great for sensitive skin. Transparent zinc is available in most face blocks so you can avoid that chalky look. Sunblock should be applied 15 minutes before going out and reapplied every three hours if it contains zinc or titanium dioxide, every hour if it doesnʼt. Choose a waterproof or sweat-resistant block based on your activities. Donʼt forget ears, lips, neck, tops of feet and the back of hands.

Enjoy the weather, play hard and stay hydrated!

Danielle Federico, M.P.H. is the author of “MOMMY FABULOUS: Complete Pregnancy Fitness and Nutrition Guide, Designed to Deliver a Fabulous Postpartum Figure.” (amazon.com) She holds a Masters of Public Health from UC Berkeley and is a personal trainer and nutritional counselor. Danielleʼs popular blog www.dani-fabulous.com provides nutrition, health and fitness information for anyone looking to lead a healthier life.

The Summer Transition

by Diana Sterling, Certified Family Coach

Many Transitions! New Opportunities!

June is about transition from spring to summer.

From school to summer vacation. Family moves to a new home or location. It is a time for embracing the transitions of summer!

However, as a working single mom, when my son was in primary school, I can tell you, in all honesty, I dreaded June.

Anxiety - ridden about how to keep him occupied and happy as we navigated new routines, schedules, patterns, travel, and holidays. How to Stay Connected. How to get through, yet stay in-tact and in one piece? Sound familiar?

Embrace The Transion And “Ask” For Guidance Know Thyself.

Ask yourself, your inner knowing, your guiding light to assist you with this seasonal transition. Do not underestimate the importance of holding still, tuning in and even admitting to yourself any sense of feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, fearful, disappointed, or even concerned. For so many years, I strong-armed my own heart and said to just push on, keep going, manage logistics and by all means do not attend to anything related to self- care or spiritual practices, or grounding techniques…none of that. Now I know that we as parents MUST seek inner wisdom, thinking time, just being. Our values and our careful considerations will guide us if we sit still long enough to do one courageous act – Think Deeply.

Action Steps

2. Take this list one step farther. Decide HOW you want to “live into these” as summer approaches with all the school, social and even business changes starting to occur.

3. Amp up your use of a family wall calendar so you can view the coming summer months at a glace.

understand. The idea of “Time” is one of the hardest abstract ideas for kids to grasp, and when you insist on time- based or transition focused expectations, you can leave them confused which later as teens could derail some of their focus to learn other abstract ideas.

“Concrete” means that they are relating to their world via physical objects, relationships and what is happening right now. Adjust your requests and expectations to their understanding of life in a concrete world. Here are some practical ways to help them with transitions and changes as school gets out and all the other changes you are experiencing have an impact directly on them.

Action Steps

2. Read a story to your child and ask them to tell you what they see changing in the story – they will tell you in their own words how they see it. You can then relate any changes in your routine or family life to this story.

3. Be very specific with your children and stay away from too much metaphoric language as you ask them to learn, do or embrace some thing new. “Tell” works better with small children rather than “Asking” them to learn or do something too abstract.

1. Introduce the word transition or change or both to your kids and have a conversation with them about what THEY think it means. Listen deeply.

Here is to a smooth June. Go forth with grace, ease and wisdom into a month of shifting sails. Peace and calm IS possible and it starts with you! Onward!

1. Make a list of 5 core values and then write one paragraph about each one.

Embrace Change And Gently Get Your Kids On Board Too Introduce the Idea of “Transitions” to your Child

“Transitions” or “Change” are abstract concepts and if your child is under thirteen, they are still mapping their world through a “concrete” lens. Gently introduce your child to the idea of transition time with new routines, schedules and vacations by adapting your conversation to concrete things that they

40 ACTIVE KIDS

activekidsdirector y.com

Diana Sterling is the author of The Parent as Coach Approach, 2008 White Oak Publishing. She is a Certified Family Coach and developer and instructor of Family Coach Training at Relationship Coaching Institute as well as wife, mother and step-mother. Visit www.DianaSterling.com and get your FREE full copy of her ground- breaking work The Parent as Coach Approach in e-book form where these practical tools and many more are explained in detail on how your desire to create connected, loving kids as they become healthy teenagers and young adults.

Marc h 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 41

Bloomingcamp

CPR 101

Family Optometry

CPR & Water Safety: What to Know

Located in historic downtown Livermore, Bloomingcamp Optometry offers comprehensive vision care with a personal touch.

Letʼs go over some terms:

Welcoming Dr. Katie Boe to the practice.

• CPR: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (basically reviving the heart, through the lungs)

www.bloomingcampOptometr y.com (925) 454 -1598

• The Rescuer: The person giving CPR is called a rescuer and always follows 3 main steps, know as C- A - B

Mention Active Kids and receive $25.00 off any professional fees.

• CPR Steps C- A - B: • C: do chest compressions - Use both hands, one placed over the other, to press on the personʼs chest many times in a row to move blood out of the heart that has stopped beating. In between each compression lift both hands off of the chest to let the chest go back to where it was to allow blood to flow back towards the heart.

• A: check the airway - After 30 compressions, the rescuer must check the airway to see if the person is breathing.

• B: do rescue breathing - If the person is not breathing, two rescue breaths are given. This is called artificial respiration, mouth - to mouth rescue breathing, or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

- The rescuer puts their mouth over the other personʼs opened mouth, and blows, forcing air into the lungs.

Chest compressions should start again right after the two breaths are given.

CPR should be used whenever someone has stopped breathing. Call 911 immediately & only perform CPR yourself until the paramedics arrive & take over.

Water Safety Tips: • Buddy Up: Always swim with a partner. Even skilled swimmers can get unexpected muscle cramps and require assistance to safety.

Summer fun for everyone!

College Nannies are educated, active role models. There is simply no substitute for someone who can really engage and have fun with your children.

When the kids are well cared for and having fun, parents are relaxed and happy.

Fun, for everyone!

Full-time | Part-time | Occasional Help

• Get Skilled: Learn some life- saving skills (such as CPR), or take a class (see our suggestions below) • Know Your Limits: Donʼt go into deep water if you are just learning to swim or are not as skilled. Always stay in shallow water so you can stand.

DANVILLE 3520 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville CA 94506 | 925.550.6738 | collegenannies.com underwater photography provided by Swimages

• Be Careful Diving: Only dive in areas that are known to be safe, such as the deep end of a supervised pool. If you are in a cloudy lake or river, test the depth by going in feet first.

Anyone can be a rescuer, learn about taking CPR classes near you.

You can call the American Heart Association (1-877-242-4277) to find out about CPR courses in your area. Our suggestions are: Valley Care, www.valleycare.com

Infant CPR Class: $20/person; $35/ two people Register by calling (800) 719-9111

John Muir, www.johnmuirhealth.com

Infant & Child CPR & Safety Class: $75/ person Register by calling (925) 941-7900

*selected information provided from www.kidshealth.org

42 ACTIVE KIDS

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Sherman

SWIM SCHOOL

Since 1961

• Swim in Safe Areas Only: Itʼs best to only swim in places supervised by a lifeguard. If you find yourself caught in a current, donʼt panic and donʼt fight the current. Swim parallel to the shore until you are able to get out of the current. Gradually make your way to shore. If youʼre unable to swim, stay calm and float with the current. It will usually slow down and then you can swim to shore.

Swimming: Infants/Adults Diving: Beginning /Advanced Year-round Lessons • Parties that make a splash!

www.ShermanSwim.com

1075 Carol Lane, Lafayette (925) 283-2100 • (Just off Mt.Diablo Blvd.)

June 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 43

Kids & College: The Benefits of Early Exposure

by Nichole Pera Parents of high schoolers often wonder what they could have done differently to better prepare their kids for the college application process. While early tutoring or test prep may help to boost a studentʼs confidence in school, those often donʼt get to the heart of the issue. To get motivated, students need the opportunity to see and understand firsthand how great college can be and why it is a vital part of their future. As parents, we know that we can say something over and over and still not get through to our kids. Just talking about college can be the same way. Here are some tips for planting the seeds of interest from the start:

1. Use vacation time to check out a college near your destination - It is

shocking how many Juniors I have met who have never set foot on a college campus. Sure, they may have seen pictures online or on TV during college football season, but until they actually experience a college campus, they are at a huge disadvantage. A lot of times, these students are the ones who are the most indifferent to the college search and the farthest behind in the whole process. And itʼs not because they are a poor student; itʼs just that they donʼt know any better! Family vacations are a perfect time to introduce kids to colleges. If youʼre spending a week in San Diego, take a detour on your way to La Jolla Beach and walk through the campus of UCSD. If youʼre heading to Arizona to watch the Giants during spring training, spend an hour getting ice cream at ASU. Every college you visit will have something interesting to see and your kids will have the advantage of knowing firsthand what colleges are like. The name or reputation of the college does not matter. It is simply the repeated exposure that counts. By doing this consistently, your kids will start getting a sense of what kind of campus they are more drawn to. You can even make a game of it and pin flags on a map showing where you have been and what campuses you have seen. That visual will stick with them as they grow up.

2. Take the kids to a game! Living in the Bay Area, we are very lucky to

be surrounded by so many top notch colleges and universities. One of the local perks is the opportunity to see a game, meet, or match pretty much any time of the year. Spend a family afternoon at a Cal Baseball game or a Stanford football game. Check out the St. Maryʼs basketball team or go see a Santa Clara soccer game. If your child is mesmerized by the summer olympics, take them to a swim or track meet! Whatever the event, even if itʼs not sports 44 ACTIVE KIDS activekidsdirector y.com

related, showing kids the exciting extracurricular aspects of college life can motivate kids just by seeing what college has to offer.

3. Send your child to college for the summer - What better way to expose kids to college than to actually send them there for a week?! Many colleges offer summer camps or programs for youth. Cal offers youth camps in areas of science, outdoor adventures, and much more. St. Maryʼs offers summer sport camps. It is not uncommon for the day campers to be mentored by actual students, athletes, and/or team coaches from the school. They can be great role models and can spark the interest of kids when parents just arenʼt able to get through. Having a special college memory and a personal connection to a campus as a child can have lasting positive effects for the student.

4. Weave talk of college into everyday conversations - What do you want to be when you grow up? We ask our kids this for fun and nothing is more adorable than a four year old rattling off “I want to be a paleontologist!” or “I want to be an astronaut!” We are eager to fill the minds of our little ones with a world of future possibilities but we must not leave out a critical piece of the puzzle: How does he or she become those professions? The conversation might start as simply as: “To be a paleontologist, youʼll go to college and study something called anthropology. It takes hard work to be able to search for those dinosaur bones, but I know you can do it!” Whatever it is your child wants to be, spend an extra minute talking about how college is an integral part of reaching that goal. The goal will constantly be changing as their interests grow but doing so reinforces the idea that college is a given, not an afterthought.

By starting to integrate these suggestions into your family routines, schedules, and chats, your children will grow to see college as something they want for themselves rather than something they have been forced into. The sooner they get excited about college, the sooner they will take school seriously and see their grades not as trivial but as a means to a great end.

Nichole Pera is the founder of College InSight Advising and has a B.A. in Education as well as a certificate in College Admissions and Career Planning from the UC Berkeley Extension. Her goal as a college advisor is to help students find schools that best fit who they are academically, socially, and extracurricularly. She provides clients with tips and strategies for organizing the college admission process in addition to guidance with standardized testing, course planning, college visits and application essay writing.

Visit www.collegeinsightadvising.com for more information and details on upcoming essay writing workshops.

May 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 45

CENTURYAT

PACIFIC COMMONS

HOLLYWOOD RETURNS TO FREMONT

Century Theatres Newest Bay Area Theatre C Cen Featuring Cinemark’s Concept Feat 16 Auditoriums Cinemark XD All Digital with RealD 3D Capability Enhanced Digital Sound Wa Wall-to-Wall and Ceiling-to-Floor Screens Plush, Stadium Seating Self-Serve Concession Stand

NOW OPEN NO Century at Pacific Commons 43917 Pacific Commons Blvd Fremont, CA 94538

For Tickets & Showtimes visit cinemark.com

by Tom Limbert

1) Lead & Inspire - You want to motivate and inspire your children. Given the facts that it's natural for children to test boundaries yet equally natural for children to imitate parents' behavior, the best way to influence and lead them is through your actions. If you want them to be respectful to others, be respectful to them and to others in their presence. If you want her to listen, then listen to her. Your child will learn to be patient and express gratitude if you show her how. You're a role model so you might as well use it to your advantage. Lead and inspire through your words and actions.

2) Believe & Praise - Parenting and any form of leadership, is all about balance and communication. While it's certainly best to be specific with praise and to focus on effort, the best way to motivate children (long before we wish to praise them) is simply to believe in them. You empower your child with your belief and encouragement. He will learn to believe in himself and be motivated to pursue his dreams with confidence. You will discover more and more opportunities to shower him with your genuine congratulations.

3) Love & Respect - Respect is a gateway to compliance. Compliance gets a bad rap, but the simple truth is that we all want our children to listen. The good news is that you can set limits clearly and still convey love and respect; all you have to do is add a simple explanation. Consistently remind your child you have her best interests in mind. Every time you explain a limit, you show her that you love and respect her. When she protests (and she will), be ready to listen and empathize, but stand firm in the knowledge that your reasons are sound.

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46 ACTIVE KIDS

5 Main Moves for Any Dad's Playbook

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4) Teach & Learn - As parents, it's up to us to help children interpret and learn from the inevitable adversities of life. If we can begin to see challenges and even failures as opportunities for learning, then each test is a means to strengthen your bond with your child and for her to ultimately succeed. If we react to our own mistakes and to our children's with honesty and understanding, and focus on the lessons and future improvement, our children will learn to do the same.

5) Live & Enjoy - Two incredibly important steps toward success of any kind are

to focus on the present and to enjoy it as much as possible. Often parenting can seem thankless and exhausting. But if we bring that kind of energy to the equation, our children will naturally emulate it. Likewise, if we consciously strive to enjoy our children and our role as parents, our children will grow to be more enjoyable. You will find that when you are in the moment, each day will bring success to you and your family.

Tom Limbert is a Parent Coach in the San Francisco Bay Area and can be found online at parentcoachtom.com. Tom has been working with families of young children since 1992. He is the author of the new gift book Dadʼs Playbook: Wisdom for Fathers from the Greatest Coaches of All Time.

May 2012

ACTIVE KIDS 47

Live healthy.

Be well.

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ValleyCare Health Information and Physician Finder 1-800-719-9111

A not-for-profit health system serving the Tri-Valley with Medical Facilities in Livermore, Pleasanton and Dublin www.valleycare.com