san diego
KIDS
North County
A Modern Family Magazine
Surfer of the Month
Local Events Calendar pg. 8
Spotted!
Recipes That Are Good for Your Heart pg. 24
North County Kid of the Month
Cody Lovaas pg. 5
Pinterest Picks: Happy Valentine’s Day!
February 2014
Arriving Daily
We’re taking care of life’s most important gift with world-class compassionate care. Nothing is more important than the healthy arrival of your baby. That is why at Tri-City Medical Center we offer: • On-site Board Certified Neonatologists available 24/7 • The only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in North County • The exclusive NICVIEW™ Parent/Baby Cam System, allowing mommy and baby to.stay connected even when they are apart Everything to ensure you and your growing family are taken care of close to home.
For more information please call (855) 222.8262 or visit www.tricitymed.org Untitled-3 1
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February{2014} editor’s letter
From me to YOU!
features
F
ebruary is full of celebrations! The month as a whole is Black History Month, the annual celebration of achievements by black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history. Take this time to teach your kids about the tremendous achievements made in history by African American leaders. Within the month, we have several other mini-celebrations such as Groundhog Day, February 2, where we eagerly find out if spring will come early (that little guy better not see his shadow if you ask me)! That same day the chips and salsa come out and we all gather around the TV for one of the most popular sporting events to happen all year long, the Super Bowl! Whether you chose to socialize and enjoy the tasty snacks like me, or are there to root on your team like the die-hard fan that you are, I hope you enjoy this day with family and friends (and extra Queso dip). And of course, come February 14, we celebrate our sweethearts with chocolates, date nights, roses, and mushy Hallmark cards. To celebrate this loving time of year, this issue is full of loveinspired articles such as Food that is Good for Your Heart Recipes, Celeb Parent Tracker: Date Night Edition, and the Valentine’s Day Mad Lib, fun for the whole family! We also included fun Valentine’s Day Apps on A is for App as well as some adorable Pinterest ideas you’re sure to fall in love with! Oh, and be sure to read through our hilarious Down to Earth Dad: Hopelessly Unromantic if all of the mushy content is just too much for you! As always, our featured North County kids this month are absolutely awesome! Our Skater of the Month, Surfer of the Month, and North County Kid of the Month are very talented youngsters that we are very excited and lucky to spotlight! XOXO,
Kate Schlicher
Weston Carls www.westoncarls.com
san diego
KIDS
A MoDERn FAMiLY MAGAzinE
Local Events Calendar pg. 8
Cover Photo Kurt Steinmetz www.imagesbykurtsteinmetz.com
Spotted!
Recipes That Are Good for Your Heart pg. 24
Advertising Inquiries info@sdnorthcountykids.com (760) 452-0789
North CouNty Kid of the MoNth
Cody Lovaas pg. 5
Pinterest Picks: Happy Valentine’s Day!
14 Surfer of the Month: Ty Spencer
16 Kids and Their Pets 18 A is for App: Happy Valentine’s Day! 20 Mom to Mom Book Review 22 Skater of the Month: Jordan 24 The Good Food Factory
North County
Surfer of the Month
Hopelessly Unromantic
8
Leapley
kate@sdnorthcountykids.com
Graphic Design
5 North County Kid of the Month: Cody Lovaas 6 Pinterest Picks: Happy Valentine’s Day! 7 Celeb Date Nights 8 North County Local Events Calendar 12 Spotted! 13 Down to Earth Dad:
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february 2014
www.sdnorthcountykids.com • www.facebook.com/northcountykids
Recipe of the Month: Foods that are Good for Your Heart!
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25 Why Learn Languages? 26 Professional Athletes Share How To Live and Play Like Champions at the Rock Church’s SuperFest Event
28 Spotted! 29 Valentine’s Day Mad Lib 30 Hero of the Month: The Sequoia Dream Foundation February 2014 | North County Kids
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NCKid
of the Month
Cody Lovaas Hometown: Carlsbad Age: 15 Grade: 10 School: Homeschooled Hobbies: Surfing, Skating, Snowboarding, and Wakeboarding Favorite Food: Ice Cream Favorite thing about living in North County: It’s chill and close to the beach
Q&A
When did your love for singing begin? I think I realized I had a real and unrelenting passion for music when I started performing and getting serious about writing songs. It’s the most exciting thing when you have finished a song and get a positive response while performing it. At what point did you want to share this hobby with the world? My first open mic was pretty cool and I think I caught the bug right away. I’ve always been kind of a risk taker and performing in front of people races the heart a bit. It’s the biggest thrill in the world to write a song and perform it in front of strangers. Who is your musical inspiration/mentor? I have a few. Jack Johnson, John Mayer, Donavon Frankenreiter and a local mentor, Aaron Bowen. But undoubtedly, Jason Mraz has had a huge impact on my music life and here is why. There are so many talented artists… almost like stars in the sky. But when someone like Jason Mraz, who is one of the best singer songwriters in the world, points you out people really take notice. What inspires your songs? The things that are happening around me inspire me. I am so fortunate to live in a loving family with total support and I write songs from that perspective. I believe it takes just as much talent to write from a state of happiness as it does from hardship.
in San Francisco and Santa Barbara and I just thought of it as a bigger wave than the ones I was used to riding. Do you write all of your own songs? I do write all of my songs along with many co-writers. What has been the response to your music? I hope people see that all my music has a positive message. I spend a lot of time in the ocean surfing. Surfing gives me time to reflect and create. Surfing and music are one to me. I hope people of all ages relate to my music. Which of your songs is your favorite? Why? My newest song is always my favorite song because there is a certain vibe you are in when you write the song and it’s so fun to play a song you have just created. What performance stands out in your head the most? Why? In 2013, I played at an open mic in Oceanside. I was then introduced to “the man”, Jason Mraz, and had the opportunity to perform for him. It was a magical night and my world has changed quite a bit since. Shortly after that night I became an artist of the Bill Silva Management team alongside of Jason Mraz and several other amazing artists. I couldn’t be any happier. Do you get nervous before performing? If so, what do you do to relax? I don’t get nervous. I get excited like I did before a football game. But it is a good excuse to get a surf in. I did have the chance to perform for nearly 10,000 people
What are your goals for 2014? Keep doing what I’m doing and continue loving every day. I want to continue writing, performing, surfing, etc. I’m just having a great time. What advice do you have for other kids looking to break out in the music industry? You can’t fail if you do things for the right reason. I do music because writing a song, performing it and seeing that song enjoyed is a total thrill. I love it and if you do things because you love it, you can’t fail. I have never done music for any other reason. Is there anything else you would like to add? Yeah. I’ve started a new practice. Amazing things have happened recently in my life and they are happening sometimes before I can even dream them up. So I think when good things are happening it’s super important to take a moment and reflect on all the people around that believe in the things I do and support and care about me. I don’t feel anyone is better than anyone else and the quiet moments need to be used in gratitude. I surf every morning and I use a few of those moments to do this. As for thank you’s, I hope the people that I am grateful to know it and hear it all the time straight from me. NCK
February 2014 | North County Kids
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Pinterest Picks: Happy Valentine’s Day!
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whitneypeters.uppercaseliving.net
thesavvysocialista.com
msruntheus.com
thehappyhomebody.blogspot.com
tatertotsandjello.com
Check out more fun pins on our Pinterest page, pinterest.com/NorthCountyKids North County Kids is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Pinterest, Inc. Pinterest is a registered trademark of Cold Brew Labs, Inc. DBA Pinterest Corporation.
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North County Kids | February 2014
Celeb Date Nights
“If you’re a busy parent, you need to get creative with date night! Sit down with a glass of wine and eat cookies together. Do whatever makes your husband feel special and give him your full attention. Any time when you can close the computer and turn off your phone can be a date night.” Jennifer Garner
“We just literally go out to dinner and just sit and catch up and talk. We’ve got to be vigilant about it because if we don’t make the time for it, it will never happen. We just make the time, basically.” Matt Damon about making date nights with wife, Luciana.
“One night Brad and I went out to dinner and I wanted to get dressed up and wear my heels. By the time we’d finished dinner we had to borrow welly boots because the water had risen so high that you couldn’t walk down the street. But that’s the magic of Venice!”
“I can’t even tell you the number of times my husband and I do date night and we say, “Oh, she needs a swimsuit,” and we go shop for our daughter. We have to say no, we have to make time for us and celebrate that we have this little time away. If you schedule it as if this night is going to be free, it’s like any of the other appointments you have in your life.” Alyson Hannigan
Angelina Jolie
“He had Laduree macarons and sunflowers waiting—I love Parisian baked goods, and sunflowers are my favorite flower. He had taken the DVD player out of the bedroom and into the living room, because he said he didn’t want to take me into the bedroom on the first date.” Ariana Grande, on her first date with Nathan Sykes.
“While of course date night is important, some couples kind of force it upon themselves and then get disappointed when it wasn’t romantic enough or if you ended up spending the entire night only talking about your kids. Try other activities like exercising together, like jogging or going for long walks or taking a spinning class with your partner. These are all great ways to reconnect with your significant other. Not every date night has to be a dinner and a movie, of course.” Rosie Pope February 2014 | North County Kids
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What’s Happening in North County February 1 Hearts for Hope 5K Run/Walk This event helps fund the many needs for those families whose children are challenged with lifethreatening medical conditions. Poinsettia Park 6600 Hidden Valley Road Carlsbad 8:30am https://mitchellthorp.org/events
Sushi Saturdays Mix and Match a variety of your favorite rolls to make a diverse, yet delicious lunch! It is a great deal! Whole Foods Encinitas 687 S. Coast Highway 101 Encinitas 11am-1:30pm (760) 274-1580 Every Saturday February 1-2
Super Run 10K & 5K Run/Walk Kick off the Super Bowl with some exercise! Awards are given to the 1st three finishers in each division Benefiting Water for Children Africa 10K and 5K start at the South Shores Park Tickets $33-$42 (age 13 and older) $12-$18 (age 12 and younger) 7:30-10am (619) 298-7400 www.kathyloperevents.com
Lunar New Year Festival Festival includes 16 carnival rides, games, contests, live entertainment and food from all over Asia. San Diego Qualcomm Stadium 9449 Friars Road San Diego $4/kid, $5/adult www.lunarnewyearfestival.org
Chinese New Year Festival Celebrate Chinese New Year with Lion Dancers, a storyteller, snacks, crafts, and more. Solana Beach Library 157 Stevens Ave. Solana Beach, 92075 1pm (858) 755-1404 Free Crafts at Lakeshore Learning Free craft activity each Saturday Lakeshore Learning 7510 Hazard Center Drive, San Diego 11am-3pm (619) 297-8494 Every Saturday
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North County Kids | February 2014
Draw and collage on cardboard boxes to truck around town. The New Children’s Museum 200 W Island Ave. San Diego, 92101 10am-12pm (619) 233-8792 2nd Annual Cardiff Kook Run 5K and 10K races The scenic loop begins at Moonlight Beach and continues down the coast to Cardiff State Beach, then back. A portion of the proceeds goes to Cardiff 101 Main Street Race check-in is at 7:30am www.cardiffkookrun.com/ Free Family Art Day: Explore the World of Paper Free family fun exploring the world of paper Light and healthy refreshments will be available for the entire family Oceanside Museum of Art 704 Pier View Way Oceanside 1-4pm (760) 435-3720 February 4
February 2: Happy Groundhog Day & Super Bowl Sunday! Members Only Food Truckin’ Design a custom food package prop, featuring kid-sized food trucks
Grandparents and Books “Grandma” Betsy reads to children in the Children’s Corner Cardiff-by-the-Sea Library 2081 Newcastle Avenue 10:30am (760) 635-1000 Every Tuesday
Tuesday Movie Free movie on a full-sized movie screen Encinitas Library 540 Cornish Drive Encinitas, 92024 4-6pm (760) 753-7376 Every Tuesday
Friday Fun Come for a fun and simple Friday afternoon craft Grade 1-5 Poway Library 13137 County Highway S4 3:30pm (858) 513-2900 Every Friday
Teen Bracelet Craft Make a bracelet to reflect your unique style. Library will provide beads, thread, fabric, paracord, and anything else you’ll need Grades 6-12poway library Poway Library 13137 County Highway S4 4pm (858) 513-2900
February 7-8
Read with Penny Reading with therapy dogs, Penny & Libby, will help boost children’s reading confidence. San Marcos Library 2 Civic Center Drive 4:30pm (760) 891-3000 February 5 Valentine/Chinese New Year Fortune Cookie Craft! Celebrate Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year by folding fortune cookies out of fancy scrapbook paper and adding a handwritten message. Enjoy some real fortune cookies and other sweet snacks while crafting. Free fun for the entire family! Encinitas Library 540 Cornish Drive Encinitas 3:45pm (760) 753-7376 WOW First Wednesdays Sweethearts of Swing: A trio of singers who capture the unique style and harmonies of the 30s and 40s by way of the Andrews Sisters, America’s most popular female singing group. Center Theater 340 N Escondido Blvd. Escondido, 92025 Free 1pm, 4pm, 7pm (760) 839-4138 February 7 Cartoon Friday Teens come to the library after school and enjoy classic Looney Toons Solana Beach Library 157 Stevens Avenue 2:15pm (858) 755-1404
Youth Fishing Derby Campout Overnight campout before the Youth Fishing Derby (February 8) $15 registration fee per car Free dinner at 5pm and fishing seminar at 6pm Lake Poway 14644 Lake Poway Road Poway, 92064 2/7 at 7am- 2/8 at 12pm (858) 668-4772 February 8 Youth Fishing Derby Fishing with a free BBQ lunch, followed by the awards ceremony. Lake Poway 14644 Lake Poway Road Poway, 92064 6am-12pm (858) 668-4772 Monster Energy Supercross Doors open/Practice and Qualifying: 12:30pm Main Event: 7pm Qualcomm Stadium 9449 Friars Road San Diego Tickets $15-$40 (619) 641-3100 www.supercrossonline.com Cooking Show Join us for an inspiring Cooking Demo & informative Health Seminar. Benefits of Going Vegan! Encinitas Library 540 Cornish Drive Encinitas 2-4pm (760) 753-7376 For the Love of Chocolate: Escondido Chocolate Festival And 2nd Saturday “Sweet Art” Festival! Located in Downtown Escondido, throughout The Historic District 1-5pm Tickets $35 until 5pm, February 7 $45 at the door Admission to Sweet Street is free (760) 740-0658 www.EscondidoChocolateFestival.com
Encinitas Kiwanis and Encinitas Parks and Recreation Department’s Annual Pancake Breakfast A fun morning for the whole family with a hardy pancake breakfast Proceeds help support the Kiwanis, youth sports, and other youth causes in the Encinitas community Encinitas Community Center 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive 7-11am (760) 943-2260 Parent Night out Glow in the dark nerf dart tag benefit Poinsettia Elementary School Includes pizza and intend Wii $30 for the first child $25 for each additional sibling Ages 5 and up AK Martial Arts & Fitness RealFit4Life Builder 6120 Innovation Way Carlsbad 5-9pm Registration required: akkarate.com/PNO_Registration.php February 8-9 Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair Come celebrate the Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair to ring in the Year of the Horse! Free event includes lion dances, martial arts performances, food, Asian Story Theater, arts, crafts, and more! Downtown San Diego, Third Ave. and J Street 10am-5pm both days (619) 540-8501 sdcny.weebly.com VONS Handmade Holidays- Happy HeARTs Learn a fun recipe to make your own healthy heart-shaped treats Use your creative skills to design a custom box to make a special delivery! The New Children’s Museum 200 W Island Ave. San Diego, 92101 (619) 233-8792
More Events on the Next Page! February 2014 | North County Kids
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What’s Happening in North County February 10 Preschool Yoga Preschool yoga (3-4 years) Yoga poses, songs, nursery rhymes and stories Encinitas Library 540 Cornish Drive 1pm (760) 753-7376 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month College Readiness: Study Skills Speaker will give tips on keeping up with assignments and succeeding in college. Pizza will be served. Teens and adults Vista Library 700 Eucalyptus Avenue 6pm (760) 643-5100 February 11 Teen Anti-Valentine’s Day Party Sick of sparkle hearts and Cupids? Join us for an hour of anti-Valentine’s Day fun. We’ll play games, eat snacks, do a craft and have a rotten good time. Poway Library 13137 County Highway S4 4pm (858) 513-2900 February 12 Doggie Tales: Read to Dogs! Kids make firry friends and practice reading skills with certified therapy dogs Encinitas Library 540 Cornish Drive Encinitas 3pm (760) 753-7376 Every 2nd Wednesday Homework Help Drop-in program for children needing help with homework Grades K-6 Vista Library 700 Eucalyptus Avenue 3:30pm (760) 643-5100 * Also Valentine Making at 3:30pm for Teens February 13 Valentine Suncatchers Design a valentine suncatcher to decorate a window at home San Marcos Library 2 Civic Center Drive
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North County Kids | February 2014
3:30pm (760) 891-3000 Valentine’s Tea Bring your little one to a Valentine’s Day tea at the library Will include stories, snacks, and a craft Ages 3-11 Poway Library 13137 County Highway S4 4pm • (858) 513-2900
February 14: Happy Valentine’s Day! Go Red for Women Luncheon and Fashion Show Be a part of this celebration to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke. The event will include a health expo, silent auction and luncheon & an energetic and fun fashion show featuring Zandra Rhodes Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines 10950 N. Torrey Pines Road La Jolla 10am-12pm $150/ticket (tired table pricing available) (858) 410-3834 Sweet Treats Drawing Class With artist and kid’s book author Lisa DiMattei, young artists are invited to learn how to draw jellybeans, cupcakes, ice cream cones and more! Art Instructor/Author, Miss Lisa DeMattei will guide students step-by-step from her recently published drawing books titled, Drawing Made Simple Level 1, Level 2, & Level 3. For children ages 6 & older Encinitas Library 540 Cornish Drive 1pm (760) 753-7376 Love Your Heart! Free blood pressure screenings NCHS Oceanside (Loma Alta) Health Center 650 Crouch Street Oceanside 10am-2pm (760) 757-4566 February 15 Family Heirlooms and Attic Treasure Antique Fair Free event featuring vendors selling a variety of antiques, and collectibles including: pottery, linens, household items, furniture, vintage items and more. San Marcos Community Center 3 Civic Center Drive San Marcos, 92069 10am-3pm (760) 744-9000
Clint Perry and the Boo Hoo Crew CD Release Party Their new CD, “Time of Our Lives” includes a FREE ticket to ride anything at the park or you can use the custom ticket to upgrade to a pass for a very discounted price. Belmont Park 3146 Mission Blvd. San Diego, CA92109 11am February 16 UT California 10-20 10 mile run with 20 bands along the way Start and finish at the Del Mar Fairgrounds 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, 92014 $85/person www.cal1020.com
February 17: Happy President’s Day! * All libraries closed February 22 The Women’s Running San Diego Half Marathon & 5K This half marathon is specifically designed for women. It provides a non-intimidating and supportive environment for women to compete against other women. The event is a pleasant bayside run with waterscape views. Participants can enjoy a post-event celebration with awards, music, food, and beer. $85-$125 (half marathon) $35-$50 (5K) 6:30-10:30am (858) 450-6510 www.womenshalfmarathon.com 5K Paw Walk in the Garden Participants will follow a 5K walk through the 37acre garden with their dog(s) in tow Adults $24 Adult SDBG Member/RCHS volunteer $12 Youth $12 Youth SDBG Member/RCHS volunteer $6 Family-team discount (minimum 4) $10/team member register Registration closes February 20 San Diego Botanic Garden 230 Quail Gardens Drive Encinitas, 92024 9am www.sdpets.org
A Night on Broadway Presented by The Grauer School Arc Campaign Team Featuring Broadway veterans Sharon Wheatley and Robert Meffe The Grauer School 1500 El Camino Real Encinitas, 92024 (760) 944-6777 Tickets range from $24.99-$2500 (front row couch accommodates up to five people) 7pm www.grauerschool.com/broadway February 25 Teen Pizza and Poetry Teens snack on pizza, and make your own magnetic poetry while sharing some favorite poems (either your own or ones written by others). Poway Library 13137 County Highway S4 Poway 4pm • (858) 513-2900
The Life of Nelson Mandela Tweens are invited to be a part of this program in celebration of the life of Mr. Nelson Mandela. San Marcos Library 2 Civic Center Drive 4pm (760) 891-3000 February 28- March 2 Spring Home/ Garden Show Hundreds of exhibits of home improvement products and remodeling ideas Del Mar Fairgrounds O’Brien Hall and Bing Crosby Hall 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, 92014 Friday, 11am-6pm Saturday, 10am-6pm Sunday, 10am-5pm Adults $8; Younger than 12, free Seniors $1.00 - Friday only After 3:00PM, $6.00 (858) 350-3738
Revolution is San Marcos’ most successful competitive soccer program. We invite you to Join the Revolution!
Black History Month Black History Month, or National African American History Month, is an annual celebration of achievements by black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history. The event grew out of “Negro History Week,” the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating black history.
For more Tryout information, email Kurtis Bullard at: competitivedirector@sanmarcosyouthsoccer.org
San Marcos Youth Soccer is a local league for local families who are looking for a FUN place for their kids to enjoy the game of soccer. We are an all-volunteer program and we strive to create a family-friendly atmosphere where player development, competition, and sportsmanship go handin-hand. Winter, Spring, and Fall seasons are offered with the lowest registration fees in town. For more information, please call (760) 621-0650 or visit our website at...
www.SanMarcosRevolution.org
www.SanMarcosYouthSoccer.org
Tryout Dates: • U09-U14 Boys: Feb. 17th & 19th • U09-U14 Girls: Feb. 18th & 20th • U15 & Up: March 17th – 20th All Tryouts will be held at Palomar College, Minkoff Field.
February 2014 | North County Kids
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HOT PICS
Sadie loves discovering new things during monthly field trips with the Applied Scholastics Academy, North County.
! Spotted in North CounCoty unty to in North See what these kids have been up
These three talented Grauer School students created their own line of hair accessories and are donating part of their proceeds to worthy causes. Bravo girls!
Wellness Week participants enjoyed free massages at the Encinitas Library.
Campers at The New Children’s Museum learn how to create tasty treats.
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North County Kids | February 2014
Supervisor Dave Roberts presenting the Proclamation Honoring Encinitas 101 MainStreet Association during Wellness Week. www.sdnorthcountykids.com • www.facebook.com/northcountykids
Down To Earth Dad
Hopelessly Unromantic
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alentine’s Day is my annual reminder of just how unromantic I am. Now, please don’t confuse unloving with unromantic. I’m very loving and I do all kinds of loving things. When my wife wanted to go to the beach at the exact same time as the AFC Championship game I turned off the TV and went down to Ponto. That’s true love people!!! I obviously recorded the game on the DVR, tried like mad to avoid hearing the score on the radio, and watched the game when we returned home – but that’s not the point. The point is that I went to the beach instead of watching Brady against Manning. But I digress. Let’s get back to how unromantic I am. I’ve always been unromantic. I can trace the history of my unromantic nature all the way back to elementary school when I was in love with the Manson Family. No, not the hippie cult. There was a family called the Mansons who lived in my town. The mom and dad looked like Sonny and Cher, in their 1970s prime, and they had five of the most beautiful girls you could ever imagine. Becca Manson was my age and she was the object of my first crush. How did I express my love for young Becca Manson? One day during vacation bible school I rolled up a complimentarily I Love Jesus poster and I smacked her in the face. I learned this passionate strategy from watching Captain Caveman cartoons.
And while this was very effective in the world of Saturday morning animation, in real life it didn’t have the desired effect. Regrettably, as the years passed my romantic skills didn’t improve. In college I had a fraternity brother we called Piro, and together we ran this hustle in various establishments around the Champaign-Urbana metropolitan area, that we christened The Cruel and The Fool. It worked like this. Piro would play “The Fool” and approach a group of girls and act like a loveable idiot. I would swoop in and play The Cruel, and make fun of him with my witty banter. Some girls were attracted to The Fool. Some girls were attracted to The Cruel. Surely nothing could be more unromantic than The Cruel and The Fool, right? Wrong. While men like Keats, Byron and Shelly gained fame by publishing romantic love poems, I achieved unromantic notoriety after an appearance on the nationally televised dating game show Singled Out, where I was able to prominently display my romantic feebleness in a variety of ways, including a pathetic mating dance. Unfortunately for me, I ended up on what became an iconic installment of the show, and the program executives at MTV decided to rerun this episode on a continuous loop for the majority of the 90s. The culmination of many years of my unromantic pedigree happened when I proposed to my wife. I popped the question in what is arguably the most unromantic location of all-time. I proposed in a Fresno apartment. In my defense, it was probably one of the nicest
apartments in all of Fresno, but nonetheless it was a Fresno apartment. Sure, I could have waited 24 hours and proposed the next day at Yosemite, on the top of Half Doom, and that would have been very romantic. But I jumped the gun and choose the dreamy setting of a Fresno apartment. Despite the unromantic locale, my wife said yes – but whenever she is questioned about the circumstances surrounding my proposal she always lies and says it took place at Yosemite. And I don’t really blame her. Why am I so unromantic? I attribute it to the fact that I’m an only child and I’ve never had the benefit of a sibling to serve as a sounding board for romantic advice. Greg Brady would have never let Bobby assault Becca Manson with an I Love Jesus poster. Denise Huxtable would have killed Theo and Cockroach if they attempted to run The Cruel and The Fool. Keith Partridge would have tried to convince Danny not to appear on Singled Out. And there is no way that Mallory Keaton would have ever allowed Alex to propose in a Fresno apartment. So, if you are the parents of an only child there is a chance that they might grow up to be hopelessly unromantic like me. Of course, this could potentially be avoided if you do something really romantic this Valentine’s Day. NCK The Down-To-Earth-Dad is a lawyer by day and youth soccer coach by night. He lives in Carlsbad with his wife and two kids. February 2014 | North County Kids
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Surfer of the Month
Ty Spencer Grade: 3rd School: Dehesa Charter Age: 8 Hometown: Carlsbad Stance: Regular Sponsors: Dad and Mom (Dad said I have to wait ‘til I’m 9, which is this month.) Started Surfing: When I was 3 years old Starting Competing: When I was 5 years old
1st place at the Doheny Classic ‘13.
Hobbies: Surfing, Skating, Fishing
2nd place in WSA San Clemente Pier.
Favorite Surf Spot: Velzy Land, HI
5th place at the Haleiwa Menehune Contest (60 competitors in the division…that’s a lot of heats!)
Long board or short board: Short board
Q&A
How has living in North County affected your surfing career? You can find a wave at many breaks in North County all the time. It’s great being small because pretty much anything is head high. Who are some local pros and companies that have helped you in your achievements? How? My dad is the best coach ever. He takes me surfing pretty much everyday and only tells me good things about my surfing.
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Career Highlights
North County Kids | February 2014
Any advice to other surfers out there looking to improve their skills? Surf every day! What do you love the most about surfing? Why? I like surfing because I get to hang out with all my buddies. I can go to Seaside and know I will be surfing with a friend without even calling them before. Have you ever had any shark run-ins? Other sea creatures? No….thankfully! But I see a lot of fish.
Where do you see yourself professionally in 5 years? I see myself winning NSSA Nationals and Surfing America Championships. Who is your favorite pro-surfer? John John Florence. Where is your go-to surf gear shop? Hansen’s. What’s the biggest wave you’ve ever surfed? 8 feet at Freddie Land, Hawaii. NCK
photo credit: Kurt Steinmetz
Kids & Their Pets This Pom and Yorkie mix, Brooks, is all set for a puppy play date in his Beau Bow.
Brewski, this adorable golden retriever, loves his plaid Beau Bow, Co.
Enter to win a Beau Bow Co. bow tie for your furry friend! Email info@northcountykids.com to enter. Woof! Instagram: @beaubowco www.beaubowco.com
These North County kids were so proud of their family dog in a local Dog Surf-a-thon.
Luke loves cuddle sessions with the family cat, Yoda.
This little cutie and the family yellow Lab are best friends. 16
North County Kids | February 2014
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A is for App Apps Recommended by Mobile Montessori
Happy Valentine’s Day! Love Tester Free
Find your true Love with Love Tester and post your result on Facebook. Just write your name and the name of your lover and press “calculate.” Love Tester then will calculate the percentage of your love-compatibility, by using a 1132 years old algorithm.
Hundred Board - A Montessori Approach to Math! $3.99 This app is used by schools and parents worldwide to help children practice their counting from 1 to 100! Children have to look for each number in sequence, starting with 1, to complete the board. Parents have observed their children spending up to one hour with this app, working to complete the entire board!! Movable Alphabet - A Montessori Approach to Language! $3.99 This app allows young children to express themselves with words and phrases prior to them mastering the skills to write with pencil and paper. Children can “build” words to match the provided pictures or come up with their own. This is a great activity for parents and children to work through together!! Multiplication Tables - A Montessori Approach to Math! $3.99 Help children memorize the essential quantities of multiplication by practicing individual multiplication sets, such as 6x3, 6x9, 6x5, etc. This app allows children to work through them over and over, focusing on specific sets they may be having difficulty with in order to commit them to memory!! Animals of North America A Montessori Approach to Geography! $3.99 Learn about the animals of the North American continent, where they live, and their conservation status. This app is designed to engage children of all ages, including puzzle maps for younger children and detailed animal facts that older children can use as a resource to perform research!!
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North County Kids | February 2014
Valentine Radio Free
Surprise your Valentine with these easy listening & lounge radio stations on your Valentine date or at any other moment during the year. We made a selection of 40 radio stations you and your loved one will surely like. Stream the music with AirPlay to your Apple TV, Airport Express or car stereo. Hello Vino Free
Have you ever been stuck in the wine aisle with hundreds of bottles to choose from? Hello Vino will give you a recommendation for the perfect bottle of wine - anywhere, anytime. The free Hello Vino app assists the beginner wine consumer with their wine purchases. Watch the video below for a quick explanation. Red Stamp Free
Email, text, tweet, Facebook, Instagram and paper mail personalized photo cards, notes, and invitations + announcements right from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Snap a photo + share the gratitude of great gifts as they are being opened. Give your host instant gratification on a well-thrown party as you head out their door. Mail fresh, modern, expertly designed invitations, announcements and cards to your list of 1 or 189 in mere minutes. With just a couple of clicks, Red Stamp will print a high-end, eco-friendly paper card and mail it directly to your list of recipients, postage included. Love Quotes 500 Free
Want to inspire your relationship and spark the romance? Then this is the perfect app for you! This amazing app gives you hundreds of romantic love quotes from men and women from all walks of life and from all ages -- from William Shakespeare to Victor Hugo, Elizabeth Barrett Browning to Helen Keller, Henry David Thoreau to Ralph Waldo Emerson. Read what they have to say about Love. And enjoy it! Valentine Trivia and Jokes Free
Enjoy this free special edition of Stacks with Valentine’s Day trivia, jokes, romantic movie quotes, and love songs. NCK
Mom to Mom
Book Review
Megan Rath is a wife and mom of a 8 year old daughter and 3 year old son. She is the organizer of the Hip Chicks Book Club (www.meetup.com/hipchicksbookclub), a large group of diverse women of all ages that meets in North County every month. A native of North County all her life, she currently lives in Vista.
Under the Dome by Stephan King The people in the town of Chester’s Mill, Maine suddenly find themselves trapped under an invisible dome, unable to get out, and not knowing if it will ever go away. There’s no doubt Stephen King is a fantastic storyteller, and this book is no exception. Unlike his usual horror books, this is really the story of how the people of a small town interact with each other when their way of life is threatened. This was a pretty good read, even though getting through over a thousand pages (my Nook version was actually a little over 1300 pages) took a while, the “bad guys” really had no redeeming qualities at all, and the end was a little lacking, and somewhat predictable.
I give this one a B-. If you’re a fan if Stephen King’s less scary works, I also recommend 11/22/63.
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North County Kids | February 2014
Snow Flower and the Secret by Lisa See Living in nineteenth-century China, Lily and Snow Flower’s laotongs, or “old sames”, means they are part of an arranged friendship meant to last their whole lives. They communicate using a secret language used by Chinese women, written on a silk fan which they send back and forth to each other. My love for historical fiction is usually limited to British, and sometimes American, stories, and I am so glad I stepped out of that box for this book. Though there are a few graphic scenes, such as the foot binding ritual, this is an amazing story of the friendship, love, and forgiveness between these two girls as they grow into women.
I give this one an A. If you enjoyed this book, try the sequel Peony in Love. NCK
Give your aspiring violinist seven weeks of daily Suzuki instruction. This program is for beginners ages 3-9 and consists of 35 private lessons, 5 group classes, and an end-of-summer recital. 20-minute private lessons every weekday Weekly group classes
Bertrand Music San Diego, CA 92129
Ages 3-9 June 16-August 1
For more information, please call (858) 859-0592 or email northcountystrings@gmail.com
Specializing in Family, Wedding, and High School Senior Photography. (760) 715-0807
www.hollyireland.com
info@hollyireland.com
Skater of the Month
Jordan Leapley Age: 14 Hometown: Vista, Ca Stance: Goofy Started Skating at Age: 7
Started Competing: 2012, age 12 Favored Discipline: freestyle / bowl
Career Highlights Scored 2nd place in first skate competition.
Q&A
Landed first 50/50 on a vert ramp.
How has living in North County affected your skating career? Having access to numerous local skateparks has allowed me to challenge myself to different disciplines such as street, vert, and bowl.
Do you get nervous before every competition? If so, what do you do to relax and calm your nerves? Yes, I tend to pray, take some deep breaths, and focus on doing my best.
Who are some local pros and companies that have helped you in your achievements? Willy Santos, Shane Allen, and Dave England have kept me motivated to continue to push myself to become a better skater. The staff at the Poway Skate Park (Sean, Sarah, and Carrie) and Aura Skatepark has helped me immensely. I have had the ability to take lessons, attend skate camps, and skate extended hours as they are an approved vendor through my charter school, National University Academy Homeschool (in Vista).
What advice do you have for other kids thinking about learning how to skateboard? Remember that skating is something that you can do to express yourself and it is my passion that I hope to share with others.
Where do you see yourself professionally in 5 years? I would like to be sponsored and competing professionally in multiple disciplines and recognized as a role model for younger skaters.
Is there anything else you want to add? Anything you want our readers to know? Keep on skating…you’re gonna fall…just get back up…its all about having fun! NCK
How do you juggle your other interests and skateboarding? It’s all about balance… prioritizing my studies, church, skateboarding, and other activities becomes easier.
What’s your favorite after-school snack? My mom’s famous green smoothies and apples.
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North County Kids | February 2014
www.sdnorthcountykids.com • www.facebook.com/northcountykids
Recipe Emmy Award Winning!
Food That is Good for Your Heart!
Fuel your heart this February, with these simple and kid-friendly recipes! From sweet potatoes, to blueberries, to cacao and cashews, there are tons of amazing things to eat that are as delicious as they are wonderful for your heart!
Dark Chocolate Hearts
Ingredients • 1 cup raw, unsalted, un-roasted nuts: almond, hazelnut, cashew (if you use cashew use just ½ cup and mix with ½ cup almond or hazelnut). • ½ cup dried fruit (unsweetened, unsulphured) dates, prunes, apricots, raisins • ¼ cup cacao powder Optional extras: to either mix in, or roll in: • coconut flakes, chia seeds, goji berries, vanilla
Directions 1. Blend nuts well in food processor, until in tiny crumbs. Place in bowl. 2. Blend fruit in food processor until you have a thick paste. (can also add in ½ tsp. of vanilla if you’d like). 3. Place nuts back in mix and blend again. Scrape sides to make sure all is mixed well! 4. Slowly add in the cacao powder, pulse until it forms a ball. 5. Remove mixture by the spoonful. Roll gently into ball. Press lightly to flatten, shape gently into heart with fingers or knife. 6. Optional: Press lightly (or roll) into optional toppings. 7. Place on plate or tray and let sit in refrigerator for a few hours. 8. Enjoy!
Sweet Potato Pudding
Ingredients • 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled, boiled until soft • 1 can coconut milk
Directions 1. Mix together, puree in blender, enjoy warm!
Bonus Recipe!
Blueberry Salad: arugula, cherry tomatoes, walnuts, and blueberries with a splash of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon!
About The Good Food Factory: We are a healthy cooking show for kids! But you can also join us for classes, camps and parties at The Center for a Healthy Lifestyle!
www.TheGoodFoodFactory.com
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North County Kids | February 2014
Why Learn Languages?
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earning another language opens up new opportunities and gives one new perspectives that otherwise may never be encountered. There are lifelong academic, intellectual, social & cultural advantages that come with learning an additional language. It is no longer just a boost to one’s resume or handy for communicating while travelling. In today’s world, it is a necessity. As a language learner, a person not only becomes a stronger, more conscious and more creative thinker, they also become a much better listener and will also gain the most significant benefit which is a broader and more global perspective. In a world where nations and peoples are ever more interdependent for the supply of goods and services, solving political disputes, and ensuring international security as well as understanding other cultures, this has become
a paramount benefit. A person competent in other languages can bridge the gap between cultures, contribute to international diplomacy, promote national security and world peace, and successfully engage in international trade and communication. The gift of a second language is the best gift a parent can give to a child. No matter what one’s background, situation, or native language, children benefit from all the advantages that come with knowing another language. It physically changes the brain; it improves and enhances the individual’s ability to focus, it builds multitasking skills; it improves problem solving skills, perception, and even enhances the learning and the appreciation of one’s first language and math skills. In short, it gives children a cognitive edge. How To Choose an Effective Language Program: In order to choose an effective
foreign language program, key concepts must be identified. Here are a few key concepts for the classroom application of what researchers have learned about languages and children: • Children learn languages when their native language is not used for instruction. • A successful language program would emphasize comprehension rather than speaking at the beginning stages. • A successful language program would use the insights of second language research in the development of all aspects of the program. • Successful language learning occurs in a meaningful communicative context. • Successful language learning for children is organized in terms of concrete experiences.
For more information about Origin and Lingua Natal Programs and it’s subsidiaries, visit www.linguanatal.com
Ms. Sisson is multi-lingual and multi-cultural. She has twenty-one years of experience in language education and school operations. She is the owner of Origin Consulting and has developed expert teaching and training programs based in the latest research and science for teaching languages to children effectively. In recent years, she has dedicated herself more and more to holding workshops and training staff at several children’s language schools in California and France. In addition, Ms. Sisson is owner and director of Lingua Natal based in Solana Beach (formerly known as KidSchool) & Origin language programs. She is also the founder of a new, international preschool, Jardin, coming to Encinitas soon!
February 2014 | North County Kids
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Professional Athletes Share How To Live and Play Like Champions at the Rock Church’s SuperFest Event by Sydney Davison
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n the eyes of a child, a professional athlete can be regarded as a hero. And while they may not have super powers, football players, baseball players, Olympic medalists, and coaches are all cast as role models. It is a profound experience when a hero imparts wisdom to their followers and connects with them on a personal level. That was the goal of the Rock Church when they partnered with Point Loma Nazarene University to put on SuperFest, a free San Diego community event. The event was held on Saturday, January 25, and was aimed at bringing kids closer to the pro athletes they look up to. About 1,140 young sports fanatics and their parents came out to the college campus to learn how to live and play like champions. They were able to attend sports clinics hosted by PLNU students, and play alongside their favorite players. The clinics included basketball, volleyball, soccer, tennis, golf, track and field, and many others. The all-day event had a huge impact on the kids, volunteers, and even the athletes themselves. Among the athletes in attendance were Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, Padres catcher Nick Hundley, Vincent Brown and Darrell Stuckey of the San Diego Chargers, and MMA fighter Rich Power. Many of the athletes commented on how the event had a strong impact on them as well. “What an awesome day. Three years and going. Congrats to you, look at what you have done and the family you have created. What a truly Godly thing,” said Rich Power. Power was not the only athlete who was moved at the event. Former Charger’s quarterback Moses Moreno said, “I enjoyed it very much and my little cousin had a blast. [I am] definitely getting more connected and it feels great.” The Rock Church seeks to foster an environment where lasting relationships are created. The goal of the Rock Church with this event is to inspire the young athletes. It is common to see professional players living
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North County Kids | February 2014
the “high-life” that comes along with making money, but these athletes had a different message to share. They reminded the kids that they come to the field with a different motivation, their faith. The event began with Senior Pastor Miles McPherson leading a panel with Los Angeles Dodgers First Baseman Adrian Gonzalez, Former WNBA Player Chantelle Anderson, Chargers Special Teams Captain and Safety Darrell Stuckey, San Diego Padres Catcher Nick Hundley and MMA Fighter Dominic Cruz. After Pastor Miles addressed the crowd, fiftyseven people confirmed their response to the Christian message, nineteen of them for the first time. This event would not have been possible without the generous work of the sponsors and volunteers at the event. Over 200 volunteers were present, representing the Rock Church, Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego State University, and San Diego Christian College. Azusa Pacific University generously gave one thousand bibles to be distributed to participants. SKLZ Gym partnered with the event by running a “speed camp” clinic for kids and donated to the event. Chick Fil-A, Los Primos Mexican Food, and D’lush provided lunch to volunteers, as well as some giveaways to kids and their families. Also present were the San Diego Padres, San Diego Sockers, Humphrey’s Home Estate, California Coast Credit Union, Deuce Brand, Dreads, and Fidelitias Development. All the guest athletes shared with the attendees how to be champions on and off the field. The sports pros that participated are dedicated to being good role models for all young athletes and worked hard to give these children and their families an experience that positively impacted them. Many of these kids will cherish the day they met their hero and heard their story, and left the event with new sports skills and a new perspective on what it means to be a champion. NCK
ABOUT THE ROCK The Rock is San Diego’s largest church and the 4th largest church in the Southern California region according to Outreach Magazine’s 2012 “100 Largest Churches in America” report. It was started in 2000 by Pastor Miles McPherson, a former NFL player. Over 12,300 people attend the Rock’s five Sunday services. For more information go to www.sdrock.com Follow us on Twitter @therocksandiego Facebook: The Rock San Diego Rock Church 2277 Rosecrans St., San Diego, CA 92106 www.sdrock.com
HOT PICS #2
! y t n u o C h t r o N Spotted in County North ave been up to in h s d ki se e th at h See w
The San Marcos Revoution soccer all-star team was all smiles at a tournament in Oceanside.
Aura Skateboarding Company set up this North Countyer with an awesome new skateboard deck.
Upper Grades students at Applied Scholastic Academy, North County enjoyed their time at a local Apple Orchard.
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North County Kids | February 2014
Check out the creative signs from students at Rancho Encinitas Academy, inviting locals to Flippin’ Pizza for a fundraising event!
Local kids loved this free yoga class thanks to the 4th Annual Wellness Week in Encinitas! www.sdnorthcountykids.com • www.facebook.com/northcountykids
Create Your Very Own, HILAROUS LOVE LETTER!
____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________
(02) (03) (04) (05) (06) (07) (08) (09) (10) (11) (12)
time of day (ie: afternoon) body part adjective adjective present tense verb body part (singular) adjective body part verb day of the week adjective
____________________ (13) adjective ____________________ (14) adjective ____________________ (15) verb ____________________ (16) verb ____________________ (17) adjective ____________________ (18) item of clothing ____________________ (19) holiday
(ie: Easter)
____________________ (20) verb ____________________ (21) noun ____________________ (22) your name
Transfer your answers above to the corresponding numbers in the story below.
Dear Sweetheart, Dear _____________ (01): I woke up this _________________(02) and my _________________(03) blushed at the thought of you. You are not only_______________(04), but very _________________(05). Every time I _________________(06) you my _________________s(07) become______________(08) and my _________________(09) begins to________________(10). I can't wait till _________________(11) night. I have a_______________(12) surprise for you. It is _________________(13),_______________(14), and ______________s(15) a lot. I hope you will _________________(16) it. I will be wearing the _____________(17) _____________(18) you gave me last _____________(19). I know how much you love to_______________(20) me in it.
Hugs & Kisses Your Favorite _________________(21), _______________(22)
How did your story turn out? Is it too good not to share? We want to see! Take a picture of your completed story & email us at
info@sdnorthcountykids.com!
February 2014 | North County Kids
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LOCAL HERO of the Month
The Sequoia Dream Foundation
When was the Sequoia Dream Foundation created? Sequoia Dream Foundation was created over three years ago and officially incorporated as a nonprofit in 2012. Why was it created? Founded by local television personality Elaine Swann, The Sequoia Dream Foundation provides grants to families in need in order to assist them in paying for their children’s after school programs such as sports, music, art, science, dance and more. As a single parent, Elaine Swann had to take her Daughter Sequoia out of an after school soccer program due to financial difficulty. Elaine Swann vowed that one day she would assist other families so that their children could enjoy and benefit from after school programs. Who is eligible to apply for a grant from your foundation? Any family in North San Diego County that demonstrates a financial need in order to assist them with their children’s sports or extra curricular activities. How many families have received help from the Sequoia Foundation? Last year our annual Mother Daughter Tea raised funds to help two local Oceanside children participate in football and cheerleading in Oceanside, California.
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North County Kids | February 2014
Jeanette Ansell – Event Chairperson Alicia Banks – Board President
What is the significance of the name “Sequoia” in the name? The name is in honor of Elaine Swann’s daughter, Sequoia. What are your goals for 2014? Our 4th annual Mother Daughter Tea scheduled for May 2014 is anticipated to double in size by hosting 150 guests at the event free of charge. By doubling our attendance we anticipate raising additional funds in order to help at least ten children and their families this year. Registration is required to attend the Savvy Soiree Mother Daughter Tea. Please visit our website for our event information. How can people get involved and start volunteering? People can get involved by going to our website www.sequoiadreamfoundation.org and filling out the contact us form or by contacting the current board President Alicia Banks at Alicia.b@sequoiadreamfoundation.org. They can also call 760-576-4135 to find out about opportunities to volunteer. Is there anything else you would like to add? I would like to add that we are always looking for committed volunteers and new board and committee members to help us grow. In particular if there are individuals with accounting, legal, or non-profit expertise please contact our president to find out more about how they can help and be a part of this unique organization. NCK
RANCHO ENCINITAS ACADEMY Excellence in Teaching • Excellence in Learning Rancho Encinitas Academy is a private school that serves students from K through grade 8. Nestled in the beautifully landscaped campus is the sister school, Edison Academy, that serves students with mild to moderate learning challenges. The mission of both programs is to nurture a student’s natural wonder and joy of learning, facilitated by a highly creative staff. Quality education at these schools prepares a student for the challenges of the future by fostering knowledge, creativity and self-reliance. There are seven separate buildings custom designed and constructed especially for the school. The campus with its architecture, landscaping, and proximity to the ocean is conducive to a safe, relaxed, and tranquil learning experience. The campus was specifically designed to reduce stress and anxiety so that a student’s focus can be on learning.
Grades K-Eight Highly Qualified Teachers Research-Based Instructional Strategies Common Core Aligned Curriculum Low Student to Teacher Ratio Emphasis on Character Building Nurturing Environment Beautiful Natural Setting Hands-On Learning Art, Music & Spanish
Rancho Encinitas Academy • 910 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 942-2011 • www.ranchoencinitasacademy.com
TEACH YOUR CHILD TO LOVE MUSIC
165 S. El Camino Real Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 230-5968 www.LittleWing.com