Growing Up in Santa Cruz February 2024 by Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Enrolling TK &K Starting Feb. 18

All kids turning 5 September 2, 2024 to June 2, 2025

All kids turning 5 by September 1, 2024

Elementary is a time for belonging, encouragement & room to explore to develop a lifelong love of learning. Students at Santa Cruz City Schools learn in classrooms & gardens, in art studios & bands, and in the wider community—with after school programs available at all schools!

SCCS.NET/enroll

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Contact for tours!

At Gateway, we learn SCIENCE ONE CARROT AT A TIME. Now Enrolling for the 2023-24 School Year! Come for a tour and see our classrooms in action! Register at gatewaysc.org 2

FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

VISIT

GATEWAY SCHOOL

Kindergarten–8th grade | Founded 1970

Features

Jim Booth Swim School

Evenings • Saturday Classes • Birthday Parties

The BEST in Baby Swimming! Start at 4 months in our 94° indoor pool!

Community Impact

On the Cover

16 Artist of the Month

20 At Watsonville indoor and outdoor pools

Editor’s Note ......................................4 What Are the Kids Saying...................5 Community Impact............................6 Cover Feature.....................................8 Ask Nicole...........................................9 Positive Discipline Parenting..............13 Grandmother’s View...........................14 Dental Health.....................................17 Coloring Contest................................18 Coloring Contest Winners..................19 Calendar.............................................20 Preschool Guide.................................24 Your Health........................................26 Fashion Forward.................................27

Coming soon to Toadal ﬁtness in Watsonville, providing advanced classes and a non-compe��ve swim team to develop strength, endurance & technique

(831) 722-3500

JimBoothSwimSchool.com Like us on Facebook

EDITOR | PUBLISHER

Brad Kava and Steve Dinnen

ART DIRECTOR | MANAGING EDITOR

Nathan Mixter

DISTRIBUTION & SUBSCRIPTIONS

Susan Bernstein

CONTRIBUTORS

Addie Mahmassani Jaime McFaden, Sarah Savasky, Elaine Johnson, Nicole Young, Christina Waters, Sepi Taghvaei, Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy, Morgan Guerra ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Bobbi Jo Palmer

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FEBRUARY 2024 | VOL. 28 NO. 2 Printed by Folger Graphics.

Growing Up in Santa Cruz copyright 2023. Printed in the U.S.A. All views expressed represent those of the individual authors. The contents of this publication are meant as information only and should not take the place of a medical doctor’s recommendations. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, in any form, electronic or otherwise is prohibited without permission by the publisher. This publication does not knowingly accept deceptive or misleading advertising.

From parenting to local events to monthly guides and everything in between.

GrowingUpSC.com | FEBRUARY 2024

Editor’s Note Vote to Save Watsonville Community Hospital for All of Us

Even small changes can make a BIG difference. Triple P is a scientifically-proven, world-renowned positive parenting program available to families in Santa Cruz County. Triple P strategies address a wide range of parenting challenges by providing a toolbox of easy-to-use tips. Find a full schedule of Triple P tips and classes at triplep.first5scc.org. This program is made possible through a partnership between First 5 Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency (MHSA – Prop 63 funds) & Santa Cruz County Human Services Department.

I n f o r m at I o n : first 5 Santa Cruz County 831.465.2217 triplep@first5scc.org • triplep.first5scc.org

When my 5-year-old son gouged his head on a park bench, we sat outside Dominican Hospital’s emergency room for four hours waiting to be treated. I’m not complaining. I understand things take time and there were higher priorities than a face that needed seven stitches. But as I waited, I would have paid anything to jump ahead of the line. I think of that when I see that the struggling Watsonville Hospital is asking for a $116 million bond measure to keep its emergency room and bring its services to the highest level possible. The money will come from South County homeowners at a rate of $24 a year for every $100K for which their homes are valued. It’s not a bad request even at a time when dollars are hard to come by. The value we’d get as a community is worth far more. How many times have your lives and health been saved in a local emergency room? Mine has been more than a few times and I’m grateful for the work they did every time. I wouldn’t be writing this without the nurses and doctors who treated me. I’d bet most of you have also been there and done that. The numbers are staggering: 32,000 people came through the emergency department in Watsonville, a number that is now inching toward 35,000, according to a great article by Todd Guild in Good Times Jan. 3. That’s compared to 52,000 at Dominican Hospital and 60,000 visits at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula. The idea of losing that South County life-saving service is frightening and should be enough to convince you to vote for the bond during the March 5 primary election. Some other benefits of the bond include the purchase of the building, saving $3 million of rent; and

It takes more than magic to keep our kids healthy and happy. expanding the building for additional state-of-the-art services, making it a top hospital. You don’t have to wait to vote in person. County election guides will be mailed out to all active voters by Feb. 5. Some 90 percent of voters mail back those ballots. In person voting starts then at two locations, the County Clerk’s office and the Watsonville City Clerk’s office. On Feb. 24 three more locations open, the Scotts Valley Library, Temple Beth El and the community room at the sheriff’s office. On March 2, 13 more locations open and four more on March 5. There are fewer locations than the 140 in the past, but there are more days to vote.

Catch the Social Media Wave Don’t miss the Growing Up in Santa Cruz videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. To promote your business to thousands of viewers in the area each week, email editor@growingupsc.com or call (408) 656-1519. 4

FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Thanks for reading, Brad Kava,

What Do You Like To Do On Rainy Days? By Addie Mahmassani Welcome to the no man’s land of the year. The days are short. Events are sparce. It’s cold, dark and rainy, and I can’t find the kids anywhere. They’re usually out and about tanning on the beaches, shredding at the skateparks, roaming the neighborhoods in packs… but in this wet, windy stretch of winter, they’re as elusive as abalone and jade. It has gotten me wondering what they could possibly be up to other than school. What does a Santa Cruz kid do for fun indoors? If you’re a parent looking to entertain some stir-crazy small fries, this month we’ve found a few suggestions for you!

Aaliyah, 6, Homeschool

“The jumping house! And I like to play the Switch. You play on it, and you play Mario and other kinds of games. And I like making cake.”

Estella & Opal (identical twins!), “Almost 5,” Building Kidz, Scotts Valley

Cisco, 3

“Making art! And we like to dance to

“Draw! I draw people and giraffes. And I like tigers and lions.”

night-time songs from Alexa!”

ENROLLING

MIDDLE & HIGH

Grades 6-7 are exploring independence through:

Grades 9-12 are seizing opportunity through:

A Warm Welcome (with licensed counselors, socialemotional learning) College-prep Curriculum Connections (in athletics, clubs, performing arts & more)

College Prep Curriculum & AP Courses Hands-on Technical Education Self Discovery (in athletics, clubs, performing arts, leadership opportunities & more)

CONTACT YOUR SCHOOL TO SCHEDULE A TOUR!

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14 acres. Now enrolling for the 2023/24 school year.

Call for a tour! 831.688.1074

orchardschoolaptos.org 2288 Trout Gulch Rd. - Aptos, California GrowingUpSC.com | FEBRUARY 2024

COMMUNITY IMPACT It Is Not Just a Housing Project. It Is a CommUNITY! Organization wants to provide a safe place everyone can call home BY ELAINE JOHNSON Growing up in the housing projects in NYC shaped the very essence of my being. While there were physical barriers present, they were not the focal points of my upbringing. Instead, the essence of my community was rooted in the resilience and unity of its people, transcending the limitations imposed by external circumstances. In the narrative often associated with housing projects, the emphasis tends to be on the seeming challenges—tall buildings, economic disparities, and various barriers that seemingly dictate the destiny of those who call these places home. However, my story diverges from this narrative. It is a tale of a thriving community, where the focus was not on how tall the buildings were, but on the strength and interconnectedness of the people within them. In this community that I grew up in, the concept of “home” extended beyond the physical structures; it encompassed the bonds we forged with one another. The spirit of togetherness was a powerful force. We were not defined by our circumstances but rather by our shared experiences, dreams, and the mutual support that flowed through our tightknit neighborhood. My mother, a pillar of our community, resided in the same 14-story building for an astounding 70 years. Her commitment to staying rooted in one place wasn’t just a personal choice—it was a testament to the profound value she placed on the community. Her home wasn’t merely a structure; it was a symbol of stability, resilience, and the enduring power of collective strength. As a small child, the vibrant tapestry of our community taught me invaluable lessons about the true essence of Community. It wasn’t just about geographical proximity; it was about people growing together, respecting each other, and supporting one another through thick and thin. The laughter of children echoed throughout, the project’s

Elaine’s mother, Loretta Johnson, received a Proclamation for being the longest-living person to live in Gun Hill Projects in August 2022. She was there 70 years. businesses flourished, and economic growth became a shared desire. As I reflect on those early years, it becomes evident that we were active participants in shaping our community’s narrative. It wasn’t just about surviving; it was about thriving against all odds. The community was our stronghold, a place where resilience was not an option but a way of life. This spirit of unity extended beyond our immediate neighborhood. It manifested in our collective efforts to transcend the challenges imposed upon us. We weren’t merely advocates for change; we were catalysts for it. pushing for the necessary measures to build more homes—spaces where people could truly live, not just exist. Over the course of my 22 years in Santa Cruz County, I’ve witnessed a troubling trend of an increasing number of individuals grappling with the challenge of finding and maintaining stable housing. This struggle poses a significant threat to the wellbeing of our community members but also hinders

their ability to establish and sustain roots within our community. As the Executive Director of Housing Santa Cruz County, the narrative we seek to write is one of hope, inclusivity, and forward thinking. We envision a future where Santa Cruz County can embrace the concept of community in its truest form—a place where children laugh, businesses prosper, and economic growth is a reality for all. Our focus is on creating a level playing field, where every individual has the right to a place they can call home—a fundamental human right that transcends socio-economic boundaries. In our work of advocacy, we are not merely dismantling barriers; we are constructing bridges. These bridges connect us to a future where the narrative isn’t dictated by fear of change, the height of buildings, or the zoning challenges we face but by the collective strength of a community determined to uplift every member. My upbringing in the housing projects instilled in me a profound belief in the power of community. It taught me that we are not defined by our circumstances but by the strength of our bonds and our shared commitment to creating a better tomorrow. Santa Cruz County, I implore us to change our narrative, to envision a future where community isn’t just a concept but a lived reality—a place where people grow together, respect one another, and support the flourishing of all. Let us build homes, not just structures, and in doing so, let us build a future where everyone has a place, they can proudly call home. This is a call to action, an opportunity for every member of our community to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of housing in Santa Cruz County. The challenges we face are significant, but so too is the power that collective action holds in bringing about meaningful change. To be a part of our movement, your support is crucial. We are running ongoing fundraising efforts to fuel

the initiatives that address housing instability head-on. Your contribution, no matter the size, will directly impact our ability to continue this vital work. You can make a difference by visiting our fundraising page at housingsantacruzcounty.com/join-us and contributing to the cause. Stay informed and engaged by signing up for our newsletter. This will be your gateway to updates on our progress, upcoming events, and ways you can actively participate in our efforts. We are gearing up for a robust Affordable Housing Month, where we will delve into the heart of the housing solution. Join us to learn about the multifaceted approaches, policies, and community initiatives that form the foundation of our strategy. it’s an opportunity to become an informed advocate for affordable housing in Santa Cruz County. As the March election approaches, your involvement becomes even more critical. We invite you to stand with us in supporting two pivotal initiatives: Measure K and Measure L. Measure K, the County of Santa Cruz Sales Tax, and Measure L, the City of Santa Cruz Sales Tax. We urge you to stand with us in opposing Measure M Santa Cruz. By saying NO on Measure M Santa Cruz, you align with our shared vision of fostering positive change and ensuring that the trajectory of housing in Santa Cruz County moves in the right direction. This is not just an invitation; it’s a call to action. Join us in shaping the future of housing in Santa Cruz County. Support our fundraising efforts, sign up for our newsletter, and actively engage in Affordable Housing Month. Let your voice be heard in the upcoming election by supporting Measures K and L, and saying NO on Measure M Santa Cruz. Together, we can build a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, with housing as a fundamental cornerstone of that vision.

This column is sponsored by Comcast, a proud supporter of the local journalists at Growing Up in Santa Cruz. 6

FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

ON THE COVER At Discovery Preschool & Family Center, we know that every child brings with them a deep curiosity and potential; this innate curiosity drives their interest to understand their world and their place within it. Students’ input, intelligence, and curiosities are honored everyday. We believe students learn through hands-on activities, exploration and natural wonderment. Play is the greatest avenue for learning in early education. Our fully qualified educators create curriculum to provide readiness for Kindergarten through exploring early literacy, number readiness, and social-emotional support. As students graduate our preschool program our goal is for them to leave with a love for learning, skills for inquiring about their curiosities, and social skills, manners, and friendships that will bring confidence to their future. The cover photo is of a dear alumni, Joaquin. Just shy of his 5th birthday, he was diagnosed with Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy. Learn more about Joaquin and the non-profit, Joaquin’s Warriors on page 12. The photo is by Carlie Statsky. Carlie is primarily a luxury wedding photographer, but Discovery was lucky enough to have her take photos for our preschool website! Carlie is a local lifestyle photographer located in Santa Cruz. With over 15 years of exceptional experience, she brings her magic to every shoot! Learn more about Carlie at www.carliestatsky.com

Discover empowering early education at

Pacific Preschool in Davenport

Pacific Preschool is a childand family-centered program for ages 3-5. We focus on outdoor activities: creative play, social development, practical life skills, gardening, art, and pre-K skills. We have highly experienced staff and bilingual aides. Breakfast and lunch daily, featuring nutritious, local, organic food. 3.75-hour morning program. Flexible 3-, 4-, or 5-day schedules. FREE tuition for income-qualified families. Beautiful 10 minute drive from Santa Cruz. Preschoolers have priority for enrollment in Pacific Elementary School TK and kindergarten. Start your child at a small public school with quality programs and a close, diverse community from around the county.

Indicate your interest for next year now: www.pacificesd.org/preschool

FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

ASK NICOLE Expressing Love Through Quality Time BY NICOLE M. YOUNG, MSW I loved celebrating Valentine’s Day as a child. My favorite memory is of the Valentine’s “mailbox” that appeared every February. It was a big box that my mom decorated with colorful paper, hearts and lace, with a large slot in the lid. My siblings and I loved “mailing” our cards to each other and trying to guess what was inside the box. Even though we knew it contained cards and candy, the anticipation and curiosity made the Valentine’s celebration feel special. Before I had kids, I vowed to create a Valentine’s mailbox and holiday rituals that would make my own kids feel that special. However, once I became an exhausted parent, all I could do was cover a shoebox with a few stickers. It was a simple version of my childhood Valentine’s mailbox, but somehow my young children still felt the same anticipation, excitement, and joy as they imagined what was inside the box. It was a good reminder that when it comes to love, the simplest acts often have the greatest impact.

This monthly column provides tips for anyone who is helping raise children, based on the world-renowned Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, available to families in Santa Cruz County. If you have a question or idea for a future column, email me at

triplep@first5scc.org. Dear Nicole, My wife and I have been so stressed and busy with work and taking care of our 6-year-old daughter and 4-year-old son that we feel like we barely get any quality time together as a family. Do you have any fun but simple activity ideas we can try to reconnect? The kids seem to just want to watch TV or play on tablets these days, and with our busy schedule it’s been easy to let them keep themselves occupied. Martin Dear Martin, It’s understandable how busy schedules and devices can make quality time hard, even more so around holidays. It’s also easy to forget the true purpose of many holidays, like giving thanks, celebrating miracles, or showing love. But small, creative activities can go a long way. Here are some ideas for simple ways to teach your kids about love on Valentine’s Day or any day of the year: Do an activity together without distractions or interruptions. Have a simple Valentine’s celebration at home by playing board games, baking heart-shaped treats, or making homemade cards for loved ones. Turn off electronics and spend time interacting. Have dinner together. Make your family Valentine’s dinner special. Dim the lights,

play some music, share favorite memories, and express heartfelt appreciation. Research shows that having regular family dinners has tremendous benefits for children and youth, including better academic performance, higher self-esteem and lower risk of substance abuse and depression. Family meals provide an important opportunity to talk with children about their interests, friends, school, and life. Start a conversation about a topic that has nothing to do with homework, chores, family rules, or daily routines. Ask questions, listen to what they say, and encourage them to ask you questions. This teaches valuable communication and social skills that will help your children in future relationships. Say “I love you” with words, notes, pictures, or texts. Leave sweet notes in lunch boxes on Valentine’s Day. Tuck one under their pillow to make them smile. Text a heart emoji just because. A little love note can brighten their whole day. Parents and children often forget to say these words or say them without genuine feeling. A simple, heartfelt “I love you” is a powerful way to remind each other that you care. If your kids aren’t used to saying these words to you or each other, try turning it into a game or competition to see who can find the most creative or surprising

way to leave a loving note, picture, or text. Say what you appreciate about each other. Be specific and sincere. Describe a quality that makes each of them special, such as their sense of humor or creativity. Acknowledge something they’ve done at home to be kind and helpful, like asking how your day was or doing a chore with a cheerful attitude. Set the example of how to express appreciation then encourage them to do the same with you and each other. Over time, this will become a habit. FINAL THOUGHTS: Remember there are many ways to teach children about giving and receiving love on Valentine’s Day and every day. The simple acts of love often mean the most and create the happiest family memories. Don’t underestimate the power of your attention this Valentine’s Day! Nicole Young is the mother of two young adults, who also managed Santa Cruz County’s Triple P - Positive Parenting Program for over 10 years. Scientifically proven, Triple P is made available locally by First 5 Santa Cruz County, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency, and the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department. To find a Triple P parenting class or practitioner, visit triplep.first5scc. org, facebook.com/triplepscc or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465-2217 or triplep@first5scc.org.

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Pre & K Discovery

February 8 | 9:30–11:30am

Campus Tour February 12 | 1:00–2:30pm

Offering bus transportation and flexible tuition RSVP and more info: admissions@mountmadonnaschool.org 408-846-4042 | MountMadonnaSchool.org GrowingUpSC.com | FEBRUARY 2024

LITERACY Celebrating Detective Teamwork with Laurie King BY CHRISTINA WATERS

Fans of the Russell & Holmes series will gather at the downtown MAH for a celebration of 30 years of The Beekeeper’s Apprentice (the first in the Mary Russell & Sherlock Holmes series with a huge YA and adult community of admirers all over) on Feb. 17. This event in Laurie R. King’s hometown commemorates this charismatic Russell & Holmes partnership, but also the publication of The Lantern’s Dance, the latest King book featuring the intrepid mysterysolving duo. In her latest Russell & Holmes adventure, King explores the 100-yearold puzzle of Sherlock Holmes’ ancestry. Don’t miss the Bookshop Santa Cruz launch of The Lantern’s Dance at 7pm on Feb. 16. The BSSC book talk with author Laurie R. King is free but requires advance registration.) King began her unique literary take on the world of Sherlock Holmes in 1994, centering on the retired crimesolver, now a country beekeeper who accidentally joins forces with a young girl, Mary Russell, to solve a crime in Sussex Downs, England. Holmes quickly realizes that the orphaned teenager has a gift for deduction and begins tutoring her in puzzles, crime techniques, and detective work. Soon the pair join up, wearing disguises, to discover the identity of one of Holmes’ enemies, and Mary ends up as Holmes’ apprentice while starting her studies at Oxford. Santa Cruz joins Seattle, Bethesda, and Nashville as a site for the four 2024 Russell & Holmes Days to celebrate the 30th anniversary of King’s first book in the insanely popular series. The celebrations at the four locations will differ, but here’s how the upcoming Russell & Holmes Day will take shape in our town. The all-day festivities begin with a continental breakfast, and later in the afternoon a Cream Tea Lunch, catered by Busy Bees Café. In her morning talk, author Laurie R. King will provide lots of insider details about the creation of the Russell & Holmes duo. Next comes a beekeeping demonstration and talk by Emily Bondor, founder of the Santa Cruz Bee Company—with, yes, actual live bees in an observation hive! King will have a conversation with a Baker Street Irregular, Leslie S. Klinger, one of the world’s leading authorities on Sherlock Holmes and a consultant on

Laurie R. King is the bestselling author of 17 Mary Russell & Sherlock Holmes mysteries, as well as other mystery series and five acclaimed stand alone novels. February 16 Bookshop Santa Cruz launch for Laurie R. King’s The Lantern’s Dance. 1520 Pacific Ave., SC February 17 MAH 30th Anniversary of Laurie R. King’s Mary Russell & Sherlock Holmes partnership starting with The Beekeeper’s Apprentice. 705 Front St, SC laurierking.com/russell-holmes-days/

Hollywood movies about Conan Doyle’s infamous detective. Klinger will delve into the relationship between Holmes and his followers. Next is Lockpicking for the amateur sleuth, a hands-on encounter with a security expert on the subject. And finally a Q&A with King, book signing, and tons of photos. Lots of additional activities at this 30th anniversary event include a few cutthroat rounds of Beekeeper Bingo, exclusive giveaways including special reprints artwork, and Beekeeper swag created just for this celebration.

FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

MINDY ABRAHAM

Delivering humankindness.

Make peace of mind part of your birth plan. Holding your baby for the first time—it’s a moment you’ll cherish for the rest of your life. And Dominican Hospital’s Family Birth Center is here to help make it as special as your new bundle of joy. Our team of doctors, nurses—even midwives—will guide you every baby step of the way. And they’re supported by the only Level III NICU in the Monterey Bay area should you need it. We even have classes to help you prepare for the big day. See for yourself. Take a virtual tour of our Birth Center at DominicanBaby.org.

COVER PROFILE Joaquin Is a Warrior And So Are His Fans BY BRAD KAVA Joaquin Aluffi was just shy of his fifth birthday when he had a major allergic reaction playing in the grass. His lungs shut down and his throat swelled and he was rushed to the emergency room. After doing tests and finding hugely high protein counts later at Stanford, doctors found he had Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy, a terminal disease with a life expectancy of 16-24 years old. A happy, sports-minded, adventurous kid, Joaquin began to be robbed by the disease of his ability to walk and ride a bike. Over time for its victims, the disease strips their ability to smile or wave a hand. But it hasn’t robbed him of his spirit, said his mom, Sara, 44, who manages the Paradise Grill in Capitola and used to manage the Crow’s Nest. “He’s an optimistic, funny, 10-yearold now and he’s never lost his sense of humor,” she said. “He’s just a champ. He has to take a daily regimen of steroids and it changes your whole look. He doesn’t look like he does in the picture. It’s more tough for the parents than for him.” The community has been powerfully helpful, raising more than $250,000 for the family’s expenses, and enough so that she is helping other families buy ramps for wheelchairs in their homes and cars and other necessities. Their website is joaquinswarriors.com Sara and his father Chris are lifelong Santa Cruzans, as are their parents and grandparents, which has created a network of support for them that she’s so thankful for. “People are insanely generous in this community,” she said. “We’re trying to help with things for basic care as well as for a cure. It’s a labor of love to give back when our hands are tied. We are stuck in regards to our child, but we see what we can do for other children.” Joaquin, who is in a motorized wheelchair, plays at Leo’s Haven, the county’s first park for kids of all abilities. He plays in a baseball board game league with one of the kids and attends Westlake Elementary School. “He’s such a sports lover,” Sara said. “I wish he was a TV lover or a video game lover.” Despite his problems, Joaquin has something valuable to give to other kids, she said. “He has taught so many kids about appreciating the basic things they are given, like the ability to go to a bounce house or walk on the beach.”

Joaquin is supported by dad Chris, Mom Sara and his brother Lucian, 12.

Please visit www.joaquinswarriors.com

FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

POSITIVE DISCIPLINE PARENTING Implementing Routines Improves Family Harmony Imagine your children leaving for school in the morning and getting ready for bed at night without needless hassles. Imagine your children showing you what they need to do each day and taking the steps involved without the need for constant reminders. The good news is that when adults and children work cooperatively together to establish and implement routines, they experience a greater sense of harmony and ease. Having routines provides many benefits: • improves children’s sense of connection, security/safety, and trust • eases transitions • develops time management skills • fosters teamwork and a sense of community • builds capability, responsibility, and creativity • encourages goal setting/achievement • creates more harmony and ease Routines vary as children develop: Infants and toddlers: In the beginning, parents create the routines. Infants relax into the rhythm that parents establish, and they learn to expect what will happen to them which creates a sense of security and calm. Routines also create opportunities for infants and toddlers to be more mentally engaged and participatory in the process. Here’s an example of a morning routine: • greetings/hugs/kisses • diaper change • getting dressed • feeding/breakfast • play time. Preschool and early elementary school: As children develop they can become more involved in helping to create the routines. When children have a role in establishing the routine they feel a sense of ownership and empowerment. One idea is to create routine charts together and post them in a visible place. When children get off track, you can kindly ask them, “What comes next on the routine chart?” This question can free parents from constantly having to remind/nag their children to do what needs to be done. Remember, though, that routine charts are different from sticker/reward charts. Sticker/ reward charts are created to reward or punish children for their actions and behavior while routine charts are created to help guide their actions and behavior. Here’s an example of a bedtime routine: • put on pajamas • brush teeth • read books in bed • hugs and kisses before lights out A couple of ways to create routine charts are taking photos of children doing things that need to be done (e.g., feeding the fish, brushing teeth, etc.) or inviting them to draw a picture of those things. There are other ideas and examples online of routine charts and how to create them. Have fun and get creative!

Tweens and teens: As children transition into adolescence, their need for individuation coupled with their desire for greater autonomy will help them to develop their own routines. Adults can ask helpful questions when things get challenging. Those questions might include “What’s your idea about getting your homework done tonight?” or “Do you have any ideas on how to make your mornings less stressful and rushed?” Adults can be kind AND firm at the same time and avoid the mistake of lecturing their children and/ or doing things for them. If asking questions isn’t enough, you can try saying things like “I notice you haven’t set the table yet, would you please do that now?” “Let’s follow the agreement we made.” “It’s time to…” Other examples of routines: After school/homework routine: • eat a healthy snack and do some physical activity (playing at a park, biking home from school, sports, etc.) enjoy free choice time (socializing with friends, doing activities, spending time alone, etc.) • start working on homework at an already agreed-upon time • have dinner together as a family. Household chore routine: Make a list of all the daily/weekly chores that need to be done. Each family member can choose a task from

the list and decide when that task needs to be done. Work together to create a sense of team effort, and find ways to make it more enjoyable and fun (playing music or turning tasks into games/contests). Going deeper: It’s important to resist the temptation to reward children for following routines or to punish children for not following them. Children benefit from learning the intrinsic value of simply doing what needs to be done. Rewards and punishments diminish intrinsic value because they shift the focus from the satisfaction of contribution to the fear of not pleasing others. The ultimate goal of routines is for children to develop the life skills they need to enjoy a sense of connection, capability, and accomplishment. Tips for success with routines: 1. Take a leadership role by promoting and modeling routines. 2. Be consistent (there’s lots of repetition involved), follow through, and remain patient. Children of all ages need time to adapt to new routines and often test limits in various ways throughout the process. Holding your boundaries in a kind and firm way ultimately helps children learn to value and enjoy the role they play in making positive contributions.

3. Plan routines in advance and invite input and ideas from children. 4. Reflect together on how routines are working (or not working) for everyone, make changes as needed, and celebrate any/all success. That conversation could be part of a family meeting. 5. Remain flexible when appropriate/ necessary. Sticking to a routine isn’t possible or practical in every situation. 7. Remain encouraging in spite of resistance. Remember the long-term goal(s) of teaching/modeling routines. When children exhibit an unexpected (out of the ordinary) resistance to a routine, attempt to dig deeper and figure out what may underlie their behavior (all behavior is communication, and it is up to us to discover the beliefs behind the behavior). Resources: Positive Discipline A-Z, Nelsen, Lott, Glenn. Adapted by Colleen Murphy, Sarah Nofi, and Steven Weiss. Visit: Positive Discipline Community Resources at www.pdcrsantacruz.org for more information, classes and tip sheets.

GrowingUpSC.com | FEBRUARY 2024

GRANDMOTHER’S VIEW The Times They Are a Changin’ BY SARAH SAVASKY The thing about “the times” is that they’re always changing. It’s their nature. I want it to be my nature too. I want to be the kind of grandmother who adapts to new ideas. Not the old person in the room complaining how everything has changed or rejecting out of hand anything that isn’t done the way it used to be done. Why? Because I believe a lot of things have changed for the better, but mostly because I want to embrace the things that my children and grandchildren are embracing, so that I can truly be a part of their lives and have deep connections with them. It’s harder to do that when you’re stuck in the “good old days”. I saw this happen with my father and his relationship with his grandchildren suffered because of it. I want to be the grandma who plays in the garden, even though it means getting dirty, and gets in the swimming pool, even though it means getting in a swimsuit. I want to be the old dog who can learn a new trick. I want this for myself just as much as I want it for my granddaughter. Sometimes this means

putting aside my assumptions and old beliefs and jumping in. For the most part I think I’ve done this, (but I probably shouldn’t get too cocky, she’s only nineteen months old.) I’ve gotten on board with the new trends. I accepted the highchair that moonlighted as a tripping/death trap for grandma.

Thankfully I survived this with only minor injuries and my granddaughter now uses a booster seat, that remarkedly hasn’t changed all that much in the last thirty years. (The main difference being that I decided I needed it, and voila! It arrived on my doorstep the next day.) It took me a minute, but I overcame my fear of choking and got on board with baby led feeding. Yes, it’s true we used to puree the life out of our baby’s food and patiently feed them their dinner with a spoon while pretending it was an airplane or a choo choo train. Now it’s “here’s an apple, go with God.” But I can already see that my granddaughter’s palette is much more sophisticated than my babies were. She eats so many things, and she eats them with no help from me! And at least now there’s a website you can visit to help you manage your fears about choking. And if you or your baby are having any trouble swallowing any of this you can even find a feeding therapist. Along with childrearing philosophies and highchairs, the look of your average grandparent has changed. Remember back when you were little, your grandparents looked so old?

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FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

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Partly because you were so young but also people just looked older at fifty or sixty then than they do now. #sixtyisthenewfifty. (Also, remember when hashtags weren’t a thing?) My grandparents were pretty hip and stylish, but they still looked like grandparents. Now there really are no “rules” about what a grandparent should look like. There’s even a style trend called coastal grandma which many people who are not grandmas and who do not live on the coast are emulating. And if you don’t know what coastal grandma style is, you can find out in a matter of seconds because these are the times we are living in. Maybe I’m kidding myself, but I don’t think my granddaughter is going to think of me as old. I’m hoping she will see me as the funny, hip, fashionista I imagine myself to be. Worst case scenario, she’ll appreciate the effort and I’ll have a lot of fun trying to convince her. If you are enjoying my column or have a topic you’d like me to write about, I’d love to hear from you at sarahsavasky@ gmail.com.

COUNTY SCOOP Securing Our Health, Keeping Our Commitment BY ZACH FRIEND, FELIPE HERNANDEZ, LUIS ALEJO, GLENN CHURCH AND VANESSA QUIROZ-CARTER Our community stands at a pivotal juncture. Access to life-saving, local healthcare for tens of thousands of residents throughout the Pajaro Valley, Santa Cruz County, and North Monterey County is on the March 5, 2024 ballot Measure N is not just a bond; it is a lifeline for our community’s health and an investment in future generations. As we approach the March 5, 2024 election, we are faced with the opportunity to fortify and expand the capabilities of Watsonville Community Hospital, solidifying our dedication to a future where quality healthcare is a cornerstone of our local community and ensuring that our friends, families, and neighbors have access to the care they deserve for decades to come. Watsonville Community Hospital is a 128-year-old medical institution that has saved countless lives and safely welcomed numerous members of our community into the world. Now, back under local, nonprofit ownership and directed by our trusted friends and neighbors in the Pajaro Valley Health Care District,

Watsonville Community Hospital is on the path toward sustainability. Measure N is a proactive step toward fortifying Watsonville Community Hospital that supports the community’s long-held vision of building a thriving local healthcare provider whose influence on our community’s wellness extends far beyond the walls of the facility. Measure N would equip the hospital to meet the evolving needs of our growing and aging population. By voting yes on Measure N, we are safeguarding the very essence of our community, and committing to the health and well-being of every resident Consider the lives touched by the healing hands of our talented, passionate, and committed local healthcare providers. Imagine a future where those hands have the necessary resources to reach even further, serving more individuals, providing better outcomes, and fostering a healthier community. This is the promise of Measure N—a promise to elevate our healthcare standards, invest in the wellbeing of our community, and honor our commitment to ensuring a thriving future. The $116 million raised from a Yes vote on Measure N would allow Watsonville Community Hospital to nearly double its

emergency room capacity, jumping from 12 rooms to 22, and reduce wait times. It would also help upgrade outdated imaging systems including X-rays, MRI, and CT scanners, and add new services so patients don’t have to travel to other hospitals to get the care they need. The time and money saved from no longer having to travel outside of our community to receive care will easily match the annual investment of $24 per $100,000 of assessed property value that Measure N proposes. Measure N would also fund the purchase of the Watsonville Community Hospital buildings and grounds, which would save $3 million per year in rent payments. Every penny of this bond—and the new revenues as a result of the upgrades and expansions— will be spent locally, ensuring that the funds directly benefit Watsonville Community Hospital and the children, parents, families, and seniors it serves throughout Watsonville, Aptos, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, Pajaro, Las Lomas, Aromas, and beyond. The alternative, a ‘No’ vote, could move us toward a bleak future that has become a reality in communities throughout California. This includes Madera County, where residents are now facing the

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consequences that can unfold when a community loses its local healthcare lifeline. More than 32,000 people visit Watsonville Community Hospital’s emergency room each year. Where would those people go if Watsonville Community Hospital closed? A ‘No’ vote on Measure N could set in motion a chain of events leading to the erosion of our healthcare infrastructure throughout Santa Cruz County. By voting ‘Yes’ on Measure N, we affirm that the health of our community is a shared responsibility. It is a commitment we make not just to ourselves but to the collective wellbeing that defines us as a united front. In choosing unity over uncertainty, we declare that our community refuses to be a statistic in the nationwide trend of rural hospital closures. Zach Friend is the 2nd District Supervisor for Santa Cruz County; Felipe Hernandez is the 4th District Supervisor for Santa Cruz County; Luis Alejo, is the 1st District Supervisor for Monterey County; Glenn Church is the 2nd District Supervisor and Chair of the Board for Monterey County; and Vanessa Quiroz-Carter, is the Mayor of Watsonville.

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ARTIST OF THE MONTH Buchanan Turns Childhood Passion Into Full Time Profession BY CHRISTINA WATERS Santa Cruz painter Noah Buchanan began his studies in classical drawing, painting and anatomy at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia. After taking a BFA from UCSC, he received a Masters of Fine Arts from the New York Academy of Art. Buchanan lives in Santa Cruz and teaches painting and drawing at several colleges and universities in the Bay Area. And his paintings are featured in private and public collections in the US and Europe. Q: How you decided that painting was the career for you? NB: I enjoyed drawing since I was very young, it was always my primary source of entertainment as a child. I constantly had a pencil in my hand and a pad of paper at my side. Family, friends and peers all labeled me as an artist. So by the time I was in 6th grade, I had mapped out where I would go to art school, and how I would make a living as an artist ... real life didn’t exactly match my 6th grade plan, but then again it wasn’t far off! Q: Talk about the unique challenges, and satisfactions of working on large-scale paintings. NB: Making a large-scale painting is like making a movie. Early rough sketches and studies are the equivalent of a screenplay, and the process of finding models to pose for the painting is the same as casting actors to play the parts. Lighting, special effects, costumes, there’s a lot of planning and research. Making a large canvas has the epic feel of seeing a story play out on “the big screen”. The life size scale of the figures makes the viewer feel they are a part of it. That’s very exciting.

Q: How do you balance the time it takes to dive into the creative work, with a teaching schedule? NB: I teach college level drawing and painting two days a week, which affords me the ability spend the rest of the week in my studio. It helps a great deal that my studio is at home in an old garage converted into a painting studio. This means that I can work on paintings in the hours between dinner and bedtime. But having a painting career also means sacrifices, keeping a smaller group of friends, it means not going out on weekends, trimming away unnecessary hobbies. Q:Would you recommend painting to young people even if they aren’t considering it as a lifetime career? NB: Painting as a profession is serious business. It’s hard work and takes years practice and dedication, and even then, it doesn’t always turn out right. I recommend it only to people who feel that they must do it. But I recommend the practice of drawing to everyone of all ages. When I was young, drawing was fun, exciting, entertaining, and rewarding as I saw myself improve. Anyone can do it with a pencil, or pen, and any kind of paper laying around. Drawinglets you explore ideas or invent stories. Drawing is an enriching practice that profoundly changes the way we visually experience the world. It’s a strengthening practice for the mind as well in that we learn to think about relationships of form, structure and light.

Q: Did you include your friends, family, in this piece? NB: The painting is fully loaded with friends and family and self-portraits (I

FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

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Q: How did the idea for Symphony come about? NB: I hang on to ideas and concepts for paintings in sketchbooks for years. In the case of Symphony,[oil on canvas, 96” x 70”] I’d had an idea for a painting almost 20 years earlier about a large group of people all gathered around a piano, all singing, yet one person was either asleep, or ill, or deceased. When I decided to return to that idea, I began sketching it out more elaborately. As the sketch unfolded, I could see that I was creating a piece where everyone was making music in different ways - not just with different instruments but with different moods and intentions, and that this was really a metaphor for our collective experience of life.

appear in the painting 4 times). This is common for a lot of painters simply because they don’t want to have to go on a major time-consuming search to find people to pose. Once an artist has an idea for a painting, they want to get started on it immediately, and so they often look to the people who are closest at hand. But after three or four paintings like this, the same characters continue to appear from painting to painting.

DENTAL HEALTH Providing Healthy Smiles for Children Fluoride toothpaste is important because the water in our county is not fluoridated! • If your child’s dentist identifies a problem, be sure to follow up with treatment. The earlier a cavity is addressed, the easier it is to treat and usually less expensive.

BY DR. SEPI TAGHVAEI February is Children’s Dental Health Month and the perfect opportunity to write to you, amazing parents, about why your kids’ oral health matters and how to ensure healthy smiles for your children. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions that we get:

WHAT ARE SOME MILESTONES THAT ARE ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT FOR VISITING THE DENTIST?

WHY DO BABY TEETH MATTER? DON’T THEY JUST FALL OUT?

• First tooth first birthday visits and every 6 months after that (see above.) • Kindergarten oral health screenings: a dental check is mandatory in California when a child first enters the school system! There is a form that parents need to have the dentist fill out and turn into the school. • Pre-teens and teens: we’re doing a great job in Santa Cruz County bringing our young kids to the dentist, but once they get to the pre-teen and teenage years, the visits are dropping off! Make sure you schedule a dental checkup for your preteens and teens.

Baby teeth matter because kids need healthy teeth to chew, smile, talk, and have good self-confidence. Cavities in baby teeth can cause pain and infection, lead to missed school days, inability to pay attention in school, poor self-esteem, difficulty eating and many more problems. Also, baby teeth save the space for permanent teeth so it’s important to keep them healthy until it’s time for them to fall out on their own.

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE MY CHILD TO THE DENTIST FOR THEIR FIRST CHECK UP?

Medical and dental experts all agree that you should bring your child in for a dental exam soon after the first baby tooth comes through (usually around the age 1.) Bringing your child to the dentist at an early age serves two purposes: 1. We can focus on parent education and preventing cavities (it’s much easier to prevent than to treat cavities!) 2. The child gets used to the dental office. During this visit, the dentist will show you how to brush your baby’s teeth and may do a fluoride treatment to prevent cavities.

WHAT ARE SOME OTHER TIPS FOR KEEPING MY BABY’S TEETH HEALTHY?

• Start brushing your baby’s teeth with a rice grainsized dab of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first baby tooth comes through. • Don’t put your baby to sleep with a bottle of milk or formula! The liquid pools and causes “baby bottle tooth

HOW CAN I FIND A DENTIST THAT ACCEPTS MEDI-CAL/DENTI-CAL?

decay.” Only use water in the bottle at bedtime. • Don’t share spoons or eating utensils with the baby! Cavities are contagious and can be transferred from the parent to the baby.

DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR OLDER KIDS?

• All children should see a dentist for a check-up and cleaning every 6 months! • Children or their parents should brush their teeth with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day and start flossing when teeth next to each other begin to touch (usually around the age 2 or 3.)

The Dientes clinic on Commercial Way is accepting new pediatric patients (18 and under)! Call 831.464.5409 for an appointment. For other options, please visit: dental.dhcs.ca.gov/ Members/Medi-Cal_Dental/Find_A_Dentist. Dr. Sepi Taghvaei is a dentist and VP of Operations at Dientes Community Dental, a non-profit organization with the mission to improve the oral health of underserved members of Santa Cruz County. Dr. Sepi graduated from NYU College of Dentistry in 2009 and has spent the last 9 years of her career in her dream job at Dientes. She lives in Aptos with her son, partner, and two cats. They love Santa Cruz and spend their free time exploring all that our beautiful county has to offer.

GrowingUpSC.com | FEBRUARY 2024

COLORING PAGE

Name_____________________________________________________________ Age _____________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Submit your coloring entry to editor@growingupsc.com for a chance to be in our next issue! You can also mail them to Box 3505, Santa Cruz, 95063 Submissions due by Feb. 15. Please include the child’s name, age and address so we can send out a prize.

FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Submit your coloring entry to editor@growingupsc.com for a chance to be in our next issue. Teachers can submit for their classess too! You can also mail them to Box 3505, Santa Cruz, 95063 Submissions due by Feb. 15.

Mrs Frost’s Main Street Elementary Kindergarten Class

Cate Age 5

Hugh Age 6

Isabel Age 10

Kavery Age 2

Zoe Age 10

GrowingUpSC.com | FEBRUARY 2024

SUN 11 FRI 2

TUES 6

First Fridays Santa Cruz 5-8pm On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block party-like vibe, the multi-venue event provides an opportunity to discover local creative talent in a fun and festive setting. firstfridaysantacruz.com/event

Gateway Open House Visit Gateway during one of their monthly Tuesday tours. Hang with the kindergarteners on Kindy Island, see what’s growing in the Life Lab outdoor classroom, join the middle schoolers for a science experiment, and see first hand the unique benefits of a K-8 education. gatewaysc.org

Homeschool Day at the Seymour Center 10am-12:30pm Spark your curiosity and inner scientist at homeschool day–a morning of special activities designed for families. Kids discover the fascinating world of ocean science and how it helps protect nature and spur local solutions. Info and RSVP at seymourcenter.ucsc.edu/calendar_event/ homeschool-day-seymour-center.

Alternative Family Education Prospective Family Meeting 6:307:30pm Learn about how you can create an individualized learning experience with your child in this inclusive community. bssc. sccs.net/afe

SAT 3 Second Saturday on the Farm 11am3pm The Agricultural History Project’s 2nd Saturday events are like taking a step back in time. Enjoy a country Christmas this month. Grab your cowboy hat and put on your boots and come and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon on the farm! In addition to Summer Fun special activities, you’ll be able to milk a “cow”, drive-a-tractor, and enjoy crafts, hayrides, puppet show, antique engines and museum exhibits. Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic. aghistoryproject. org/2nd-saturday-on-the-farm

FEB 3, 10, 16 Discovery School Open Houses Feb. 3 at Soquel, Feb. 10 at West Side and Feb. 16 at Midtown. Learn about the Reggio Emilia philosophy and what makes a quality preschool program. The experienced and passionate educators will be available to answer questions and give you a tour of the unique learning environments. discoverypreschoolandfamilycenter.com

SAT 10 La Selva Beach Winter Craft Fair & Book Sale 8am-4pm This free event is at the La Selva Beach Clubhouse and Lawn. Shop from over 35 unique arts and crafts vendors and a huge used book sale. Enjoy baked treats and hot drinks from the Bake Sale. lsbia.com West Cliff Outdoor Market 10am6pm Just in time for Valentine’s Day, head to the outdoor market with unique artisans while taking in the spectacular view of the ocean. This one of a kind market will be held in two parking lots along West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz. Admission is free. cityofsantacruz.com.

Antiques Faire 8am-6pm The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and more. Visit the Antique Faire on Lincoln Street between Pacific and Cedar.

THU 15 Film and Digital Media Presentation 3:45-5pm. Check out the UC Santa Cruz Arts division at this salon-style gathering presenting the work of UCSC’s Film and Digital Media Department.The event is free and open to the public. arts.ucsc.edu/ news_events/sesnon-salon

SAT 17 Riders Surfing Competition Head to Lighthouse Point on West Cliff Drive to watch the West Coast Board Riders compete. The cliffs over Steamer Lane offer a unique vantage point to watch.

SUN 18 Downtown Makers Market Visit the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market featuring 40+ local makers and artists in downtown Santa Cruz. Located on

the 1100 block of Pacific Ave. between Cathcart and Lincoln Streets, this monthly market hosts a wide range of locally handmade goods. scmmakersmarket.com

MON 19 Living History Demonstration 1-4pm Learn how Mission Santa Cruz participated in a world economy back in the early 1800’s. Watch a demonstration of how a branding iron works on leather, and get involved by dipping your own candle to take home. Event is free. parks. ca.gov/Events/Details/15516

SUN 25 Gardens of Time Tour 1-2pm. Take a stroll through history as you visit the various gardens in the Mission courtyard and patio. This tour will explore different cultures through the plants they used and cultivated here during different eras. Tour is free, and no reservations are needed. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=548 Winter Barn Dance 3:30-5pm Join the UCSC Celtic Music Ensemble and faculty caller Tanya Merchant in the Cowell Ranch Hay Barn for a darn good time barn dancin’ in the barn. No partners are needed, and all choreography is decided to be gender neutral. Free for all, come as you are. calendar.ucsc.edu/event/ winter_2024_barn_dance_at_the_barn

SAT-SUN 10-11 The American Woodwind Quintet Feb 10 at 7:30pm and Feb. 11 at 4:30pm. Let the Avenue Winds take you on a stirring sonic journey through America at Christ Lutheran Church in Soquel. Woodwind quintets paint rich and varied soundscapes from the peaceful Pastorale by Amy Beach and Summerland by William Grant Still to the bustle of New York City in Rubispheres by Valerie Coleman. scchamberplayers.org/concert-four

COFFEE, CREPES, CAKES, & CATERING A Taste Of Pleasure! Get Your Talking Festa The Cat Stuffed Plush

GUiSC will attempt to update the calendar listings as needed; however, it is the responsibility of the organization listed to provide updated information. GUiSC assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are encouraged to check the accuracy of the information provided. Events that are free or cost less than $10 can be submitted for inclusion in the calendar. GUiSC does not guarantee that a submitted event will automatically be included. Preference is given for events of interest to children and/or parents. Calendar entries must be received by the 15th of the month prior to the month of the event. To find out more about promoting your event further or include a paid event, email advertising@growingupsc.com.

20 FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

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COMMUNITY Santa Cruz Symphony Offers Family Concert BY CHRISTINA WATERS Here’s a concert that will please the entire family, and inspire young audiences toward future musical experiences. The delightful and humorous musical creation, Carnival of the Animals by French composer Camille Saint-Saëns will take families and young music lovers on a tour through a variety of animal behavior in the form of four short movements. Plenty of imaginative parody of the animal kingdom is showcased in a masterpiece originally written in 1886, but not performed in public until 1922, a year after the composer’s death. Many believe that the Carnival of the Animals, which highlights stringed instruments, gave inspiration to the John Williams score for the Harry Potter films. This orchestral work will be the culmination of the Santa Cruz Symphony Family Concert on February 25, 2pm at the Civic Auditorium, in which young performers from will play side by side with adult musicians from the

Carnival of the Animals Santa Cruz Symphony Family Concert Sunday, Feb. 25 at 2pm at the Civic Auditorium

Santa Cruz Symphony. The Symphony collaborates with many other youth arts groups and organizations to put on its Youth and Family Concerts during the month of February. It’s an innovative opportunity for students who are learning to play orchestra instruments to play with larger ensembles. The Family Concert on Sunday Feb.

25 is the culmination of a week of Youth Concert performances for thousands of local 4th and 5th-graders, all of whom have worked through the dynamic Link Up musical introduction program created by Carnegie Hall. Our local teachers use the Carnegie curriculum to teach the youngsters about the music that they will hear at our Youth Concerts, a program that reaches 4,000 Santa Cruz and Monterey County school children. Some members of the Santa Cruz County Youth Symphony, Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre, Kuumbwa Jazz Honor Band, El Sistema Strings, and the Cabrillo Youth Chorus participate in the Symphony-supported Youth and Family Concerts. Saint-Saëns’ lively zoological suite of starts off with the dramatic Royal March of the Lion in which the regal king of the jungle enters our imaginations by way of high trills, glissandos from two pianos, and plenty of orchestral splendor. In the movements that follow audiences will experience sonic portraits of kangaroos, elephants, wild donkeys, birds, tortoises, and the final

movement—the most famous and most performed—devoted to the swan. Two pianos conjure up flowing water and the gliding movements of an elegant swan. And the cello takes center stage here as it follows the gorgeous movements of the swan itself. There will be lots to listen to and animals identify in this carnival of inventive sounds from the imagination of a beloved French composer. Young listeners should pay attention for some especially magical solo portions, dazzling and vigorous piano work and a few themes that will sound very familiar. The annual Family Concert is a way for parents and young ones to enjoy a highly accessible symphony concert. Fun and lively, the music is perfectly suited (and specially chosen) to introduce youngsters to the unforgettable magic of live orchestra, and of the individual instrumental sections that make up symphonic performances. Come enjoy the music, led by Symphony maestro Danny Stewart, and see how the audiences and musicians of the future are inspired.

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TEACHER’S DESK Why Grades May Not Reflect Academic Skills can be influenced by various factors, leading to inflated perceptions of a student’s performance.

BY SUSAN TATSUI-D’ARCY Many parents mistakenly believe their children are functioning at or above grade level for several reasons.

LACK OF UNDERSTANDING OF EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS:

GRADES REFLECT MORE THAN JUST ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE:

Some parents may not fully understand the educational standards and expectations at each grade level. They might not be aware of the gap between their child’s reported grades and actual proficiency in subjects like math and reading.

Class grades are not solely based on academic abilities. They often include factors like attendance, class participation, homework completion, behavior, quizzes, and tests. This means that a student can earn good grades even if they haven’t mastered the actual material.

GRADE INFLATION:

Grade inflation is a phenomenon where grades are higher than they were in the past, and this can contribute to the misconception that students are performing at or above grade level when they may not be.

GRADE IMPROVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

Many teachers provide opportunities for students to improve their grades through late homework submissions, extra credit assignments, retaking quizzes or tests, and doing test corrections. This practice can inflate a student’s final grade, making it seem like they are performing better academically than they actually are.

PARENTS TRUST THE SCHOOL SYSTEM:

Parents often trust the education system and may assume that if their child is earning good grades, they are on track to succeed in college and the workforce. However, the grading system

STANDARDIZED TEST CONCERNS:

Standardized tests are not always seen as reliable measures of student potential. Some parents and educators may be skeptical of their validity and may rely

more on class grades. To address this issue, it is important for parents to have open and regular communication with their child’s teachers. Discussing a child’s academic progress and areas where improvement is needed can provide a more accurate picture of their performance Additionally, parents can take an active role in their child’s education by providing supplementary resources and activities that help them develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills beyond what is covered in the classroom. This approach can help ensure that a child is truly prepared for success in college and their future careers. Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy is the founder of Merit Academy (one-on-one classes) and Merit Educational Consultants (college and educational advisory). She has written books on projects, free child care, education, and parenting. Susan hosts TEDxMeritAcademy for students to present their innovative projects and solutions. In 2019, she was California Mother of the Year. meritworld.com

GrowingUpSC.com | FEBRUARY 2024

PRESCHOOL & CHILDCARE GUIDE

on the importance of play, equity and social emotional learning as key foundations for academic skill and the development of a lifelong love of learning. As the only Quality Counts program in SLV, we are dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing space to ensure access to outstanding early learning opportunities for all. Like the redwoods that surround, we invite you to stand tall and thrive with us!

Live Oak School District- Child Development

“I feel lucky to receive such warm, nurturing care for my son. Staff are flexible and accommodating to our needs and schedule. Center is always clean.”

The Live Oak School District- Child Development Program offers families a Free or Low Cost Quality State-Funded Preschool program for 3-4-year-olds at the Del Mar, Green Acres and Live Oak Elementary School sites. We provide morning (8:45-11:45) and afternoon (12:45-3:45) preschool classes. We now offer a Full Day & year round program at one of the centers (7:30-4:30pm). The State’s new higherincome guidelines allow so many more families to qualify. You may come by our office or call us to begin the process for enrollment. If space is still available we enroll year-round.

~ A current parent at Highlands Park

Mount Madonna School

Early Education Center

PRESCHOOLS

Coastal Community Preschool

Lic. #444408854 & Lic.#444415615 900 High Street, Santa Cruz 831.264.5437 coastalcommunitypreschool.org

Coastal Community Preschool (CCP) serves children ages 2 through 5 years with a safe, stimulating, and caring learning atmosphere. We have a curriculum that encourages development at each child’s own pace. Among our program highlights, we offer flexible year-round schedules, a highly experienced teaching staff, and a bright, secure Westside location overlooking Monterey Bay. We also offer an after-school program for TK-1st grade. Join us as we continue working with parents and caregivers to raise a community of strong, confident, and happy children. Community Bridges Early Education Division

831.400.1110 communitybridges.org/eed Community Based Universal Preschool Programs: • Fairgrounds: 2667 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville • Vista Verde: 1936 Freedom Boulevard, Freedom • Sycamore Street: 121 Sycamore Street, Santa Cruz • Nuevo Dia: 135 Leibrandt Avenue, Santa Cruz • Redwood Mountain: 7103 Highway 9, Felton • Highlands Park: 8500 Highway 9, Ben Lomond

Providing FREE (California State Preschool Program) & tuition-based early education, from the redwood mountains in the San Lorenzo Valley to the vibrant fields of Watsonville. We serve infants through TK with the guidance of highly experienced, bilingual/bicultural staff who understand the importance of play and social emotional learning as the key foundation for academic success and ignite a love of lifelong learning. We honor the rich cultural backgrounds that have given Santa Cruz County its historical place as a changemaking community, with core values to provide access to quality early care and learning to create empowered futures. Together we’re better.

“They are helping my daughter with her growth and development. She is always learning new things.” ~ A parent in the Early Education Division Community Bridges Highlands Park Early Education Center

8500 Highway 9, Ben Lomond 831.400.1170 communitybridges.org/eed

Nestled in the magnificent redwoods and adjacent to the San Lorenzo River, our center serves infants through TK. Built from the foundational dreams of local early childhood legends, we extend our vision with an emphasis

24 FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Discovery Preschool and Family Center

4 Santa Cruz locations: 2800 Porter St. Soquel, 818 N. Branciforte Ave. Santa Cruz, 208 Rankin St. Santa Cruz The Farm (private address) 831.515.7071 scdiscoverypreschool@gmail.com discoverypreschoolandfamilycenter.com Lic# 444414415 Discovery’s mission is to bring families and educators together to enrich a child’s early development and education. Our highly educated staff takes the Reggio Emilia philosophy to inspire learning, curiosity, and discovery to make preschool fun and fulfilling for everyone involved.

All of the teachers and administrative staff are friendly, creative, and nurturing. We are grateful to all of them for helping us to build a great foundation for our child’s education and life skills. ~ Discovery Parent

Del Mar Lic #444400352 Green Acres Lic #444403585 Live Oak Lic #440710379 984-5 Bostwick Lane, Santa Cruz 831.462.1116 losd.ca (click on departments and then Extended Learning)

Lic #440709549 491 Summit Rd, Watsonville 408.847.2717 MountMadonnaSchool.org

From the redwood and oak forest to views of the Monterey Bay, Mount Madonna School’s (MMS) natural environment inspires learning, play and social-emotional wellness in students preschool through grade 12. The Montessori-influenced preschool features a low child-to-teacher ratio and dedicated teachers who nurture children’s love of learning, self-confidence and independence. At Mount Madonna School, we focus on developing kindness and respect towards ourselves and others. This, combined with our 380-acre outdoor classroom, invites and empowers children to fully engage in their education. By including abundant time for imaginative free play, children are inspired in all areas of their development.

Pacific Preschool at Pacific Elementary School in Davenport

Lic #440702049 50 Ocean St, Davenport 831.425.7002 pacificesd.org/preschool

Pacific Preschool is a child- and family-centered program for ages 3-5, focusing on screen-free outside activities – social development, gardening, creative play, practical skills, art, music, problemsolving, and pre-K skills. Morning program with extended care or TK option in the afternoons; flexible 3-, 4-, or 5-day schedules. FREE tuition for income-qualified families. Highly experienced and bilingual staff. Nutritious breakfast and lunch prepared from scratch daily. Beautiful 10-minute drive from Santa Cruz. Preschoolers have priority for enrollment in Pacific Elementary School – start your child at a small public school with quality programs and a close, diverse community from around the county!

Rocking Horse Ranch Preschool

We offer morning, afternoon, and full-day sessions. Our three beautiful acres offer room to explore, including swings, slides, trees to climb, a ninja course, zipline, bike track and a giant sandbox! Kids also enjoy our farm animals and grazing on food from our organic garden and orchards.

The teachers maintain safe spaces for indoor and outdoor play and provide opportunities for hands-on learning of new skills based on the understanding that young children learn primarily through imitation. The children engage in exploration of the natural world, and are gently guided toward development of social tools. Rather than focus on academics, the program centers on learning basic real world skills and emotional self regulation. Each day includes circle time and story time, as well as meals prepared together.

Santa Cruz City Schools

Simcha Preschool

Lic #444400117 4134 Fairway Dr, Soquel 831.462.2702

Sam Rolens samuelrolens@sccs.net 831.419.2927 sccs.net/enroll

Here at the start of a great adventure, students need belonging, encouragement & room to explore. In TK/K at Santa Cruz City Schools, students are given a play-centric, social and curiosity-driven welcome into education to help them develop a lifelong love of learning. Our students enjoy hands-on learning, from growing and cooking in our Life Lab garden to exploring computer science in off-screen algorithms; they are nurtured with individualized educational supports, and the guidance of our licensed counselors. We offer a supportive environment where students discover the height of their potential as learners and as human beings Santa Cruz Montessori

Ages 18 months – 14 years Main Campus (Primary and Elementary) 6230 Soquel Drive, Aptos Winston Campus (Young Children’s Community and Jr. High) 244 Cabrillo College Drive, Soquel 831.476.1646 scms.org Established in 1964, Santa Cruz Montessori is a non-profit school serving children 18 months to 14 years. Our beautiful classrooms and outdoor environments engage the children’s senses as they learn. Based on a deep understanding of child through adolescent development, our programs meet the interests and needs of our students, engaging and challenging them to do their best. We offer a supportive community of learners and an exciting Montessori curriculum including humanities, math, sciences, and arts. Our mission: as a Montessori learning community, we inspire life-long learning and a more peaceful world by nurturing the natural development of the whole child. Santa Cruz Waldorf Preschool

enrollment@santacruzwaldorf.org 831.824.2161

Lic #440710119 3055 Porter Gulch Road, Aptos 831.479.3449 caitlin@tbeaptos.org simchapreschool.org Come experience our thriving, nurturing, playbased program that features an emergent, anti-bias curriculum tailored to your children’s passions and interests! Simcha (meaning “joy” in Hebrew) Preschool is known for its dedicated and knowledgeable teachers who foster children’s social emotional skills, independence, and creative ideas. Everyone loves our beautiful outdoor and indoor facilities. Thank you for voting us Best Preschool Runner Up in 2023! Full-day and half-day schedules, low child/teacher ratios, and 3, 4 or 5-day schedules are offered for children ages 2-5. Ask about our TK/K classroom! Welcoming to all, we are proud of our over 40-year tradition of sharing Jewish values. Come join our Simcha Preschool family! Open year-round, 7:30am-5:20pm. Call 831-4793449 or email Director Caitlin Clancy at caitlin@ tbeaptos.org to learn more! Tara Redwood School

Lic#444417000 Preschool to Elementary 5810 Prescott Road, CA. Soquel Tel. 831.462.9632 Tararedwoodschool.org Tara Redwood School curriculum is a blend of Montessori and Creating Compassionate Cultures (CCC). We have a global focus that follows an original framework known as the 7 Steps to Knowledge, Strength and Compassion developed over 30 years. Our curriculum for the preschool years primarily focuses on how to be a ‘good friend’ by supporting the development of the students’ emotional intelligence through mindfulness, discussion, and practice in real life situations. We value the importance of daily outdoor learning experience and the children visit the Redwood Campus at Land of Medicine Buddha, located in the Soquel forest, just minutes from Soquel Village. The Preschool Campus is in a sunny and convenient location in Soquel. Preschool–Ages 24 MO–4YRS.

Our Preschool is based on the principle that true learning takes place out of self-initiated activities.

ENRICHMENT Jim Booth Swim School

Watsonville 831.722.3500 Jimboothswimschool.com

Be a water wonder! Lessons for all ages! From our Little Otters swim class for parents and their babies to our adult beginner class. The whole family can splash together at Jim Booth Swim School. Little Otters is a gentle introduction to our 94-degree indoor pool that will make you confident that you are guiding your infant to a happy water experience. Our lessons emphasize quality swimming in an exciting class taught by our caring, well-qualified teachers. Developmental swim team and advanced swim lessons will be offered at our outdoor pool located in Watsonville at Toadal fitness. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School! Junebug’s Gym

3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz 831.464.BUGS (2847) JuneBugsGym.com June Bug’s Gym is a place where your child can experience a fun-filled adventure in movement. We have a caring, respectful, and supportive staff that encourages every child in their growth of large motor skills and gymnastics along with social, emotional, and cognitive development. Our goals for our students are to help them feel control and empowerment in their bodies, to build self-esteem through success, to open up imaginations, and to feel confidence and joy in their exploration of movement. Music Together/MusicalMe, Inc.

Locations throughout Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County Call/Text: 831.332.9002 registrar@musicalme.com musicalme.com Offering Music Together®: A research-based music enrichment program for children birth to age 5, and the grownups who love them. This program enhances children’s learning in multiple domains (mentally, physically, socially, etc.), increases family engagement and richly adds to each family’s “toolbox”. Siblings are welcome, especially infants who may attend free if they are 8 months or under. We offer classes both outdoors and indoors. Contact us today to try a free class and bring the joy of music into your family’s life. Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center

2750 Soquel Ave # B, Santa Cruz, CA 95062 831.462.0655 scgym.com At Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center our mission is to build a community of people that all support

each other’s growth, learning, safety and development through our love of gymnastics and fun. From preschool to competitive programs, kids will learn skills such as rolls, handstands, and cartwheels. We also focus on age-appropriate school readiness skills such as waiting in line, sharing, taking turns, and color/number/shape recognition. We know that every child can benefit from gymnastics, physically, emotionally and cognitively so we offer something for everyone. Check out our website for more information and class registration!

SERVICES

Alison K. Jackson, DDS

Children’s Dentistry 7545 Soquel Dr, Aptos 831.662.2900 santacruzkidsdentist.com

We are seeing NEW PATIENTS! Dr. Jackson provides comprehensive dentistry in a caring environment for children of all ages. We are preventive-dentistry oriented and very thorough in our evaluations and consultations. Our office provides individualized care for your child’s specific needs. We have a 24-hour emergency service available for all of our patients. Dientes Community Dental Care

1830 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz 1500 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz 100 Pioneer Street, Suite D, Santa Cruz 1430 Freedom Blvd., Suite C, Watsonville dientes.org Dientes Community Dental Care is a full-service dental provider located throughout Santa Cruz County. We practice whole family dentistry including children, adults, and seniors and our patients are cared for by experienced pediatric and general dentists. As a non-profit dental service, our focus is on high-quality, affordable dental services, including exams, x-rays, fillings, sealants, and root canals. We accept Medi-Cal and we have affordable sliding scale fees for uninsured patients. We offer bi-lingual services. Se habla Español! Dientes, providing dignity through dentistry for over 30 years. First 5 Santa Cruz County

831.465.2217 First5scc.org

First 5 Santa Cruz County promotes the healthy development of children from birth to age 5. Parents and caregivers of newborns can contact First 5 to receive a free “Kit for New Parents” with parenting videos, children’s books, information on caring for babies and local resources. First 5 also offers parenting support through the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, a world-renowned program that strengthens families by building positive relationships. To find Triple P classes or quick tips, visit triplep.first5scc.org or facebook.

Nurture your child’s inner musician Register now for winter classes Join us for the best in early childhood music enrichment, family bonding & fun Try as clas

For ages birth to 5 years Don’t miss out. Contact us today! 831.332.9002 • MusicalMe.com

GrowingUpSC.com | FEBRUARY 2024

YOUR HEALTH Embracing Self-Love and Acts of Kindness BY JAIME MCFADEN February is known as the month of love, yet it’s not just about romantic love - it is a great time to make space for self-love and spread it to those around you. This month is a great time to reflect on our relationships, especially the one with ourselves. The more love we have inside, the more we can radiate that love with the world around us. Self-love is the foundation of a healthy mind, body and soul. It is about appreciating who you are and embracing all parts of you. Self-love is also about taking care of yourself and your wellbeing through self-care. When we can remember that self-care is not selfish but it is necessary for a healthy life, we can put our needs first. Sometimes that means setting boundaries and saying no when you need to prioritize your needs. In February, let’s focus on nurturing self-love and spreading kindness. In this article I will share with you my WAVE self-care system and a February self-care through kindness initiative. Imagine loving yourself the way you love your kids, family, friends and those who really make your heart smile. One of the key components is having compassion and forgiveness. There is a great quote by Maya Angelou, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” I believe this goes well with self-love, when we take baby steps towards healthier living, we will grow. The WAVE system, taken from my book “WAVES of self-care: It takes a village is a simple effective way to make sure you are prioritizing your wellness in all areas of health. You can use this system as a daily check in or take a deeper dive every once in a while. To raise your self-love this month, take a few minutes while reading this and answer the following:

HOW CAN YOU LOVE YOURSELF MORE THIS MONTH?

Well-being: Take some time to focus on what it means to be well. What is most important to you? If you tune into your heart space, where do you want to put more attention and energy? When you love yourself more, you can show up better for your family and friends. Awareness: Raise your inner reflection and take time to meet yourself where you are at now. Coming from a place of love, instead of worrying about the past or future, how can you embrace this moment. What are you currently doing daily towards self-love and what are some things you can do to raise the bar? Vision: Visualize a version of you that is full of love, self-care and spreading

kindness to those around you. What is that version of you doing differently? Who are you around? Where are you spending your time? The more clearly you can visualize it - the more you can believe and become. Energy: Everything is energy and this is all about how we are showing up. Where are you putting your energy? What are you committed to do so that you can love yourself more in 2024?

HOW ARE YOU SHOWING UP IN THE WORLD FOR OTHERS?

Using this system is a great way to channel into your higher self and the more love we have inward, the more we can share with others. As a community, let’s focus on taking this love to our community. What is ONE random act of kindness you are going to do this month? Let’s spread love in 2024 and make time to connect with each other.

WANT TO JOIN MY SELF-CARE VILLAGE?

Giving away a signed copy of my book for one person who commits to love yourself more in 2024. You can reach out to me at jaimemcfaden.com or @jaimemcfaden on all social media channels. I am determined to support at least one person per day on taking better care of themselves. Will pick winner Feb 10th. To enter: Send a message letting me know how you will love yourself more this month.

26 FEBRUARY 2024 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Bounce Houses Indoor Playground Arcade Drop-In Play Memberships Parties School Field Trips

gigglesnwigglescapitola.com 831.291.4004

Located in the Capitola Mall • Open every day the mall is open!

FASHION FORWARD Cool Clothes Seen on the Streets and in Schools BY MORGAN GUERRA

In downtown Santa Cruz, we talked to the most stylish people on the street. From linens closing out summer, to pinstripes making an early fall appearance, classic trends have taken over Front Street. Let’s take a look at the self-expression the Santa Cruz residents choose to communicate through their personal styles. My name is Morgan Guerra and I am a current student at Cabrillo College. I’ve been enthralled in fashion since being a little girl playing dress-up in my mother’s closet and have longed to work in the fashion industry since. My goal is to shine a spotlight on the diverse fashion in Santa Cruz, as it’s something I’ve always taken notice of, but have never seen anyone truly talk about.

Rose

Abby

Liv

Cole

Age: 17

Age: 27

Age: 18

Occupation: Student

Occupation: Unknown

Occupation: Student

Hometown: San Francisco

Hometown: San Jose

Hometown: Los Angeles

Hometown: Arcadia

Baggy is back. From the 90’s hip hop scene, we can take a look at the evolution of baggy in fashion today in Rose’s look. With an oversized jacket stolen straight from their sister’s closet, paired with an equally oversized pant, the callback to urban influence is prevalent. Rose names maximalism as the driving force behind her look. More is more will never really be out of style in fashion. They highlight the experience of experimenting with clothing, something they believe everyone interested in finding their fashion should do. What particularly stuck with me is her explanation of why this is her advice, “how are you going to know what you like if you don’t try it

Walking down the front street, we spot Abby dressed in neutrals during this transitional time between seasons. She pairs earth tones and neutrals to create a look straight out of your favorite fall-time movie. Entirely from the thrift store, not only is the a nostalgic look, but it is also sustainable. Abby’s inspiration comes from the resurgence of 70’s fashion in the 90’s. Abby’s positive energy radiated even as I passed by her on the street. When asked about her fashion advice she let me know, “When you dress for you, people notice your confidence!”. A wonderful philosophy to live by. You can find Abby’s pieces at Moon Zooom downtown Santa Cruz, as well as the vintage market the second Sunday of each month.

Liv is a key example of how pieces you wouldn’t usually put together can create an outfit that is not only stylish but also interesting. Wearing printed tights from Urban Outfitters, Liv uses layering and mixing patterns to fashion a maximalist style. Underwear as outerwear is huge in modern style. Liv wears a layered skirt fashioned after an 1870s underskirt. While the skirt is a reminder of the 1870s, Liv gets her style from the 1970’s. Midi skirts with funky shoes, everything we see today is a direct influence of the older generations. The red shoes are a fall staple, as red comes back into style as the leaves change. The funky clog gives identity to an outfit, adding character where you could otherwise opt for comfort or function. Places in Santa Cruz like Bunnys Shoes and Sock Shop downtown are home to lots of cool shoes like Liv’s.

How many bottoms do you think you need? Now add one more to that. Back in the early 2000’s, we saw this layering trend with leggings under skirts and it’s back with a new twist. Playing with the classic “school girl” uniform, layering elevates a classic outfit to a head-turning combination. Cole’s advice for any reader looking to elevate their staples is to accessorize and layer: Do things you havent thought of doing before. Maybe it’ll be the perfect odd combination that comes out of left field for your self-expression to truly take off. With casual Crocs and jeans to her father’s tie and buttonup, Cole doesn’t stick to one outfit at a time. And she pulls it off flawlessly. You can find pieces like Cole’s at Motherlode Vintage in downtown Santa Cruz.

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