Growing Up in Santa Cruz December 2023 by Growing Up in Santa Cruz

SEVEN DIRECTIONS

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DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

• Wide selection of classes and camps for ages 5 and up! • Visual & performing arts, sciences and more! • Homeschool and after-school programs • Lively 2,000 sq ft studio • 35+ live exotic animals

Features

Jim Booth Swim School

Evenings • Saturday Classes • Birthday Parties

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

Gift Guide

Community Bridges

8 Behind the Scenes at the Nutcracker

At Watsonville indoor and outdoor pools

Editor’s Note ......................................4 Gift Guide...........................................5 Community Impact............................6 Cover Feature.....................................8 Student’s View....................................10 Holiday Guide.....................................12 Birth Matters......................................14 Positive Discipline Parenting..............16 Ask Nicole...........................................17 Coloring Contest................................18 Coloring Contest Winners..................19 Produce Minute..................................21 Calendar.............................................22 Your Health........................................26

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EDITOR | PUBLISHER

Brad Kava and Steve Dinnen

ART DIRECTOR | MANAGING EDITOR

Nathan Mixter

DISTRIBUTION & SUBSCRIPTIONS

Susan Bernstein

CONTRIBUTORS

Christina Waters, Shannon Chipman, Sarananda Oshiem, Nicole Young, Colleen Murphy, Laura Maxson, Sarricco Santo, Jaime McFaden

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Bobbi Jo Palmer

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408.656.1519 editor@growingupsc.com P.O. Box 3505, Santa Cruz, CA 95063

DECEMBER 2023 | VOL. 27 NO. 12 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 | DECEMBER 2023

Editor’s Note Curiosity Fills the Dad

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

Was it really a year ago I was walking outside Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater and saw a mom and her daughter eating lunch between the young one’s performance in the Nutcracker? I couldn’t resist stopping to talk, even though it drives my boy, Parker, crazy. He complains that we never get anywhere because I always talk to people. How can I not? That’s one of the great things about journalism–meeting people and hearing their stories. I’ve always been curious, since before I was Parker’s age (I must have been 4) and I followed the mailman for blocks and blocks because I wanted to see where the mail came from. Only, after a while, I realized I was lost and had no idea how to get home. These were the good ol’ days and the mail person was chatting with a group of moms sitting outside their apartment. I walked up to them, crying my eyes out and terrified. Luckily, it was a small neighborhood and they knew my mom, even though I didn’t know them. One of them walked me home. I never knew where my curiosity would lead and more often than not it leads to great things. Like our cover story this month. I started chatting with Brynn Campbell,

9, and her mom, Cara about what it was like to perform and they were both glowing. Parker caught the bug just listening. And it sparked my curiosity. How did it work? How long did it take to practice and learn? Was it fun? Was it rewarding? Parker was already crazy for the glorious musical theater show and we have nutcrackers around the house year round. And then he said the most shocking thing, that he wanted to be in it next year. And here we are. He’s been rehearsing since September and I don’t know which of us is more nervous and excited about his Dec. 16 and 17 performances. And I finally got answers to my questions, what it takes to prepare, how do they learn all this, what’s it like to perform to a big audience? I got director Shannon Chipman to keep a journal about her year-round work on the show. You can read it here and share the joy. Thanks for reading!

Brad Kava, Editor and Publisher

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

DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

GIFT GUIDE Gifts for Learning and Discovery Artisans

BY CHRISTINA WATERS

Artisans & Agency

Stuff for Kids

1368 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 831.423.8183 artisanssantacruz.com

Childish

1127 Soquel Ave (also downtown SC at 1122 Pacific Ave) childishsantacruzcom 831.454.8208 Perched in the center of Eastside Santa Cruz, Childish is full of fun for young ones. Great holiday gifts for kids on the go are the must-have Chilli Scooter ($149.95), or Sport Strider bicycle ($159.95). The easy gliding Micro Mini scooter in a dozen colors ($99.95) offers stability, longevity, and big fun for kids and toddlers. Messy and colorful play comes by way of Natural Face Paint, sixpack of bright washable colors $26.95

For hip little gift recipients, dig the tiny T-shirts and onesies from Rock Scissors Paper with colorful logos on the front. “Keep on Growing” and “Locally Grown” are cute logos without being silly. Even more playful are the irresistible boiled wool hand puppets by Cate and Levi ($29) with cartoon eyes and felt teeth and tongues.

Cool Holiday Wearables The Sock Shop

1515 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 831.429.6101 sockshopandshoeco.com

Level Up

113 Locust St, SC 831.295.6329 levelupvideogames.com Level Up Video Games specializes in collectible and classic games. Nintendo GameBoy? Yes. Atari, absolutely. Floor to ceiling shelves of vintage, used, and new video fun for all ages. Plus all the gameinspired collectible toys and figures to go with them. Gamestop

Brown Ranch Market - 3555 Clares St. Capitola 831.464.1774 gamestop.com & 1441 Main St, Watsonville 831.786.9155 Gamestop is fully loaded with video games, consoles, and accessories, from Xbox to Pokémon Meta and PlayStation. Ready to be checked out at the 41st Avenue store. Spider-Man2, Lords of the Fallen, Scarlet Nexus, Avatar. Endless play action. A Gift Card lets your recipient come in and shop for their favorites. Comicopolis

829 Front St, Santa Cruz 831.427.1929 At Comicopolis you’ll find a Fort Knox of board games, from chess to Scrabble. Marvel comix, new and used. A major collection of vintage and highly collectible animated cartoon magazines to engage the young imaginations. Graphic novels, posters, action figures, Manga—it’s here (and online too!).

The Sock Shop is a colorful retail spa for young toes, feet, and legs. Cats, dogs, tacos, sushi, pizza, ice cream cones, sea otters all decorate the playful socks in every possible color from SockSmith to delight your child. $10ish. Love the Hello Kitty Baggu that your youngster can use for shopping and carrying and storing favorite items. $12 and adorable. Raspberry red furry slippers made of sturdy boiled wool from Kamik caught our eye, and so did the low price of $39.99. Warm, cozy, and eye-catching. Paper Vision

1345 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 831.458.1345 papervisionsantacruz.com Paper Vision is the ultimate treasure trove of paper delights and it’s our goto shop for stocking stuffers. Soft and cuddly little Palm Pal animals comes in ice cream colors for under $8. Teens (and their parents) will love the bright and eye-catching Grateful Dead and psychedelica t-shirts ($22) of all kinds, covering half a wall at this downtown landmark. Shelves of beautifully detailed toy cars sit opposite a tower of tiny, gift-packaged collectibles—animals, imaginary beings, babies—made with visual genius in Japan. Here’s a place to go nuts in. Stuff every stocking!

will have a self-made wearable treasure for the entire year. Get silly with your gift recipient while making outrageously old-school and brightly colored shirts, dresses, scarves, you name it. Or work with your child right there in the store, using the shop’s huge array of colored dyes, learning how to fold and wrap and dye and then getting to enjoy the hippie era results. An incredible amount of fun. Patagonia Outlet Store

215 River St., Santa Cruz 831.423.1776 patagonia.co

Patagonia Outlet Store stocks wearable fashion treats at discounted prices for young and older children who like to look good, play outdoors in the winter, and stay warm the whole time. But we really go for the kids’ Refugito Daypacks ($69) in teal with bright orange trim. Trail-ready and built to hold a lot and take a lot of day in and day out treatment. Recycled materials that look great and will thrill your kid. And if you’ve got a real young one, under one year old, treat them right with a crimson Baby Nano Puff Jacket $89, made of postconsumer recycled poly that’s warm, windproof and water resistant.

Bookshop Santa Cruz

1520 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 831.423.0900 bookshopsantacruz.com The Bigfoot Night Light ($19.95) that changes colors thanks to its built-in LED was only one of the many Big Foot themed children’s gifts occupying a dedicated niche in the toy section at our beloved bookstore. A superb collection of picture puzzles, from entry level floor puzzles—the map of the US is as educational as it is mesmerizing—to the intricate 1000 piece Cobble Hill great horned owl puzzle ($21.95). An entire section of the gift area is devoted to owl-themed items. Stuffed owls, owl socks, owl puzzles, and even a snowy owl Crystal Art beading kit complete with a frame for the finished project! ($33.95).

A gift for the entire family

Start a lifelong tradition with a subscription to live performances of the Santa Cruz Symphony. From rambunctious movie scores, to virtuoso soloists, to sweeping and inspiring orchestral classics, our excellent Symphony under the baton of music director Daniel Stewart offers a season of concerts to thrill first time concertgoers and discerning music lovers. santacruzsymphony.com/subscribe

A Brighter World Tie Dye Co.

34 Janis Way, Scotts Valley 831.443.0021 cometiedye.com

A Brighter World Tie Dye Co. Take home a tie dye kit and have fun making some cool home-made tie dye shirts. So much fun plus your youngster GrowingUpSC.com | DECEMBER 2023

COMMUNITY IMPACT Community Bridges Offers Affordable and Robust Preschool Program Program recognizes that parents are experts on their children’s education BY COMMUNITY BRIDGES The first five years of a child’s life are an essential period for their development, and providing access to high quality, nurturing and affordable early education is crucial. In Santa Cruz County, the Community Bridges Early Education Division has been a pillar of support for families seeking a quality, affordable program. We understand some of the challenges of balancing work and family life and hope we can support families in ways that can enhance your lives. With recent changes to the California State Preschool Program (CSPP), we are now even more accessible and affordable for local families. What is the Early Education Division? The Community Bridges Early Education Division operates six centers throughout Santa Cruz County, offering nurturing, free, or affordable early education. The family fees are determined on a sliding scale based on income, making it accessible to a wide range of families. Additionally, free or low-cost care is available for families that qualify by income and are working, providing further support for those who need it. The program offers flexible schedules in our tuition-based program and full-day care to accommodate various schedules. Lowering Barriers The recent changes to the California State Preschool Program (CSPP) have opened new opportunities for families. Families with incomes up to 15% over the State Median Index income threshold may qualify for full-day CSPP. This means, for example, that a family of four making $10,857 or less per month is now eligible for free or low-cost services, with many families paying a maximum of around $75 per month. These changes ensure that financial barriers do not hinder children’s access to quality early education. Additionally, every July, children who turn three on or before December 1 of the

Students work on projects at Community Bridges. current year are eligible for CSPP services, extending access to more children. Families with a need for care due to work, English classes, college classes with vocational goals, or who are actively jobseeking may also qualify for the program. Automatic qualifiers for CSPP programs, including recipients of WIC, CalFresh, CalWorks, or children with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), are given priority access to CSPP. Community Bridges also offers a tuition-based program in Ben Lomond serving infants, toddlers and preschool children. We accept HSD and Go Kids payments. All of our programs are part of Quality Counts Santa Cruz County and are inclusive and serve children with disabilities. Developmental Excellence and Supportive Curriculum The Community Bridges Early Education Division is committed

to providing children with a strong foundation for healthy development and school readiness. Through a dynamic, play based program, we foster: • A love of learning • Literacy and numeracy skills • Social and emotional development • Curiosity, exploration, and creativity • Cooperation and collaboration • Problem-solving skills • Respect for self, family, community, and the environment This approach ensures that children not only acquire essential academic skills but also develop emotionally and socially, setting them up for success in the future. Uniting Families and Teachers The program recognizes that parents are the experts on their own children and aims to provide resources and opportunities for families to strengthen their parenting skills, share information, and build partnerships within the community. This collaborative approach

ensures that parents are actively involved in their children’s education and well-being. Each member of the teaching team at the Community Bridges Early Education Division has chosen their career, because of their passion for this age, and interest in each child’s learning. Many are bicultural/bilingual, are CPR and First Aid certified, trained in the health and safety practices, and obtain Child Development Permits issued by CA commission on Teacher Credentialing. With a commitment to ongoing professional development and Early Childhood Education units, the staff is dedicated to providing a nurturing and enriching environment for every child. The Community Bridges Early Education Division program is a champion for families seeking affordable and robust early education in Santa Cruz County. With the recent changes to the California State Preschool Program, access to these invaluable services has become even more attainable, ensuring that every child in the community has the opportunity to develop and thrive in a supportive and enriching educational environment. Join our team. Interested in a career working with children and families? We offer a competitive salary and package and are actively recruiting teachers in SLV and Santa Cruz. Visit communitybridges.org/eed for more information. There are two sites in Watsonville, two in Santa Cruz, and two in the San Lorenzo Valley: Watsonville Fairgrounds Center 2667 East Lake Ave. 831.400.1150

Vista Verde Center 1940 Freedom Boulevard 831.400.1130

Santa Cruz Nuevo Dia Center 135 Leibrandt Avenue 831.400.1140

Sycamore Street Center 121 Sycamore St, #100 831.400.1120

San Lorenzo Valley Redwood Mountain Center Highlands Park Center 8500 Highway 9 7103 Highway 9 Ben Lomond Felton 831.400.1170 831.400.1160

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

DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

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More Than Sugar Plum Fairies The director of the International Academy of Dance shares her year-long efforts BY SHANNON CHIPMAN It’s that time of year again… Nutcracker time! The tune of the “Waltz of the Flowers” plays in department stores and Nutcracker dolls are abundant in holiday displays. What exactly does it take to put on a full scale production of the Nutcracker Ballet year over year? When do preparations begin? We’d like to invite you into the world of Nutcracker. It begins in January and ends in December. Our dancers train year round and Nutcracker is almost a way of life. Over 100 dancers from ages 4 to adult grace the stage and the music of Tchaikovsky’s grand score begins filling our studios in September. 1/3 - Costume Madness In January it’s about putting away hundreds of costumes, organizing them and getting them cleaned in addition to rearranging our storage unit to make sure everything is accounted for and put away safely for next year. We debrief on how things went, what to keep, what to change and what can be improved for next year.

and artistic expression, as well as strength en pointe. What will be the best roles to challenge dancers safely and also be most suitable for the audience to enjoy? These are the questions we answer in the process of casting which is a full time job for several weeks, complete with sleepless nights. It is a domino effect. If one part changes, it changes everything. This is the worst part of the nightmare especially as pleasing everyone is a hopeless job. Usually only one dancer can be Clara. Sometimes we have two dancers share the role. This year, we have 3 Clara’s sharing the role! We have only done this once before. They are each unique and fabulous. Sometimes it is just too difficult to pick one. We can’t wait to see what each unique Clara brings to the stage and all of the dancers in their roles.

2/3 - Movie Time February is a time to share our video with our dancers for a matinee celebration. We had a wonderful professional video made with several cameras. This year we went all out and watched the movie at the movie theater with the whole cast. It was so relaxing to just sit in the audience and not have to worry about anything and eat popcorn!

Spring - Focusing on other things (mostly) In the spring we are getting ready for our next big production in June, but are also working on hiring our guest artists, securing the theater, and hiring our stage crew for Nutcracker. 6/3 - Dreaming of Sugar Plums By summer the Nutcracker machine is already in motion. We have already hired our lead dancers and guest artists, as well as signed contracts for the rental of the theater, hired our stage crew and reserved important parts of our set that we rent each year. We have already assigned staff to various roles and have posted audition notices. It’s only the beginning of summer but we are already dreaming of sugar plums! 7/3 - 5,000 pieces The Nutcracker is like a giant puzzle. One of those jigsaw puzzles with 5,000 tiny pieces. Although we have put it together many times before, each year brings with it new challenges. Every year it gets put away, then gets put back together again. That’s part of the fun!

Some things have to go back exactly as they were, but every year there are some new pieces and the puzzle gets a little bigger and even more exciting. There is always something new to see, be it costumes, choreography, set pieces, guest artists… even new music. We delight in reimagining the Nutcracker every year. What will we do differently this year? What surprises can we add in? Are we ready to take all the pieces out again and get started? The dancers are already talking about their dream roles and applications for auditions have already been posted. The puzzle box has officially been opened. 8/3 - The Nightmare Before Nutcracker has begun We have joked around for a long time, “What if the rats win?” This year we are reimagining a bit further and will debut the first ever “Nightmare Before Nutcracker” an original production encompassing all forms of dance on Halloween weekend. What kind of a different experience will Clara have if

DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

the Land of Sweets turns Sour? How will she dance with her Nutcracker in the hereafter? The dancers are excited. We have bit off a lot with the start of the new season, a full Nutcracker ahead of us and now a new spooky Nutcracker to add to the fun. This is an amazing group of performers and the stage is where they feel most at home. This is going to be extra fun and we must be super organized to pull it off. 9/3 - Audition Buzz Auditions were all day on August 26th and a buzz of excitement filled the studios. Measurements and headshots were taken for each dancer from ages four through adult. Each auditioned in their separate time slots. We look for professionalism even from the youngest dancers. Can they handle themselves in rehearsals and backstage? Will they be able to listen and follow directions well? Will they remember their choreography and be able to be brave and enjoy being on stage? From the older dancers we are looking for technical ability, musicality

10/3 - The Tale of Two Nutcrackers Rehearsals have been well underway since September and this is the month of our Nightmare Halloween Nutcracker as well as the beginning of our marketing campaign for the actual Nutcracker. Tickets are now on sale! October is busy with costume fittings and alterations. This is the month to organize an army of volunteers. Seems like a crazy time for another show but everyone is excited to wear black lipstick, light up skeleton masks, pumpkin heads and all kinds of other fun Halloween accouterments on stage. Everyone is having a lot of fun preparing for two Nutcrackers. Not sure how this is even possible… 11/3 - Sunny Side Up! Watching the sun come up… As the sun comes up every day, it reminds me how the Nutcracker Ballet is performed every holiday season all across the country and throughout the world. For Santa Cruz City Ballet at the International Academy of Dance, it has

COVER FEATURE YOUNG DANCERS TALK ABOUT THE NUTCRACKER Brynn Campbell, 9, has been in the Nutcracker since she was 5 How many years have you been in the Nutcracker with SCCB at IAD? This is my fourth year doing the Nutcracker, I missed one year during COVID but have been performing since I was 5. What is your role this year? Black Lamb and Angel What is your favorite part of being in the Nutcracker? The shining lights onstage when I’m performing. Also the smell of hair gel and being backstage with my friends. What do you love about the IAD/SCCB Nutcracker? I love how it’s all ages, it’s a mix of adults, older kids and littler kids. It’s fun to see them all in their costumes. What are you looking forward to in future years of the Nutcracker?

History of Santa Cruz Nutcracker The Nutcracker was first performed in Santa Cruz in 1988 with Santa Cruz City Ballet Director, Shannon Chipman as the Snow Queen and Co-Director, Vicki Bergland as Co-Director on the old Cabrillo stage. They have since worked on many Nutcrackers together and this is their 15th year together with the Santa Cruz City Ballet @ IAD. This is their 12th year at the Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater. Every year the production grows with new ideas, choreography, scenery, costumes and imagination. Dancers in the Company, professionals from the bay area and beyond, alongside dancers from our community each bring their own sparkle. Most dancers in the production train at International Academy of Dance, home of the Santa Cruz City Ballet. It is always rewarding to see the tiniest gingersnaps, angels and party guests now dancing principal roles as young adults and pre-professionals, along with young dancers dreaming about becoming the next Snow Queen. For Tickets: nutcrackersantacruz.com

been 15 years of Nutcracker. Many more if you count our first production here in Santa Cruz (co-Directors: Shannon Chipman & Vicki Bergland) as Snow Queen and Co-Director in 1988. With October over, there is a heightened emphasis on the looming deadline of showtime in December. The stockings are up in the neighborhood coffee shop, most of the pumpkins are out of sight and even on this lovely autumn morning, the holidays are fast approaching like a flock of seagulls to the sand. November is go-time! Now with the Nightmare behind us, we can focus on the dream ahead and get back to the Land of Sweets.. This will be a busy month of rehearsals, alterations and preparations all leading up to next month and the Magic! Thanksgiving - Thankful Thankful for the opportunity to put on the Nutcracker again at Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater the weekend before Christmas! We used to put on the Nutcracker on Thanksgiving weekend.

We love that it is closer to the holiday season now and we have even more time to prepare. We are so grateful for our incredible team from the youngest dancers to the most amazing parent volunteers and our incredible staff! After this weekend it’s off to the races. It will be a marathon to the finish line, but we feel well underway with what feels like everything ready to go for December. It all happens so fast now, just two weekends until we’re in the theater! December - Go Time to Showtime … yet to be written (but follow the story online) - Experience the Magic and bring your magic! You, the audience, are there in your seats for one or more of our four performances of the Nutcracker on Saturday and Sunday 12/16 & 12/17 at 1 & 4:30pm. We can’t wait to share it with you and show you what we have been working on all year!

The joy of being onstage. Climbing higher in roles, it’s cool to think I was once I gingersnap and in some years I could be 15 and en pointe, dancing the role of Clara or a Snowflake.

And from her mother, Cara

I remember being a petite snowflake and watching the snow queen dance and all I wanted at that time was to be as talented as she was and to become the snow queen when I was older, which I finally got to be for the past two years. That same year while in the wings during a show the snow queen came up to all the petite snowflakes and gave us a little pep talk and told us to not be nervous, and enjoy being present on stage. That talk might have been the most exciting thing to happen to me all year, and it has always stuck with me. The IAD nutcracker is not only a magical experience for the audience, but even more, it is magical for the dancers performing. What will you miss most about dancing in the Nutcracker when you head off to college? I am going to miss the tradition of it. And spending time with all of the people involved. I have thought about and kind of prepared myself for the idea that this is my last Nutcracker, but I don’t feel quite ready to let go of the hours of extra time put in in the studio with friends working on roles and joking around, or the week leading up to the show hanging around the theater with some of my closest friends, or singing in the dressing rooms getting excited for a show to start being filled with excitement and nerves and joy.

What has been your experience from a parent perspective watching your dancer grow into different roles in the Nutcracker throughout the years?

Those are all such special memories to me, and the part of Nutcracker season that I look forward to all year.

It’s been absolutely fabulous! Seeing Brynn grow and blossom as a dancer is of course a part of it, but watching her feel such joy performing and seeing her become part of a tightly knit and supportive group of dancers (and teachers!) is so rewarding. It’s wonderful to be part of this community.

Ysraelya Dolinger, Jayda’s mom

Jayda Dolinger, 17, San Lorenzo High School How many years have you been in the Nutcracker with SCCB at IAD? 12 years What is your role this year? Dewdrop fairy and a snowflake What is your favorite part of being in the Nutcracker? My favorite part about being in the Nutcracker is being on stage with the bright lights in my face, and the feeling of pure joy to gives me to perform What do you love about the IAD/SCCB Nutcracker? I love the community that happens within the studio during nutcracker season. Older dancers get to know younger dancers when they become leads in dances like angels, Chinese Tea, Mother Ginger, lambs, etc. The young kids get the opportunity to watch the older dancers and look up to them, and dream about becoming like them. Or at least that’s how it has been for me.

Jayda was involved in virtually every role in the Nutcracker, as she progressed through her ballet levels. While she and her group were always excited about their current roles, they were always keenly aware of the potential future roles they hoped to dance. By the end of each run, Jayda often had the choreography memorized for the next years role, so they were always excited for what was to come. Never once did I have to force her to go to rehearsal or class, in over 10 years! One of these most amazing things I found was how quickly the young dancers gain confidence and ownership of their specific duties and roles. Each year they are part of creating the magic from scratch, and they get to participate in the process. From a very young age they become adept at setting their props, helping their friends with quick changes, and knowing how to do their own hair and make-up. There really isn’t anything else that prepares kids to be both independently accountable and part of a team. I believe her experience in the Nutcracker was a huge part of Jayda’s desire to push herself as a dancer all these years. Her dedication was rewarded with so many great roles over the years, and that has been extra special for sure. But I think more important for her was being part of bringing to life something larger than herself. The process itself, from start to finish, was always magical, and for that we are forever grateful as parents.

GrowingUpSC.com | DECEMBER 2023

STUDENT’S VIEW The Importance of Supportive Spaces for Queer and Trans Youth BY SARANANDA S. OSHEIM

At age 16 I began questioning my sexual orientation and sought out community to find safe and accepting spaces. Trying to process and better understand my identity was a confusing and isolating experience. In an effort to find support, I began attending weekly queer youth groups at the Diversity Center, which shifted to attending regional youth summits, and then statewide conferences. In my senior year of high school I began an internship with the Queer Youth Task Force (QYTF) to organize queer social events and a student summit. This activism led to being honored with a Queer Youth Leadership Award and becoming a Equality Scholarship recipient in 2008. When I eventually came out to my family at 17, it was labeled as “just a phase” and I wasn’t taken seriously. Overall, I was fortunate to encounter passivity rather than resistance; as for many LGBTQIA2S+ youth coming out can be challenging. Santa Cruz County has many incredible organizations that uplift queer and trans youth and has taken great strides in creating safe and supportive spaces, but work is always needed to reach youth who don’t feel safe or comfortable expressing their true selves. Having access to safe spaces and uplifting queer and trans youth has fueled my activism. In July 2013 while attending UC Santa Cruz, I reconnected with the QYTF and began writing an email newsletter for the Safe Schools Project called Queer Youth Updates. This newsletter serves as a platform to share local LGBTQIA2S+ youth friendly resources and events in one centralized location. In high school I remember feeling frustrated that

there were opportunities to connect with my community and develop leadership skills, but neither I, nor my peers, had the tools to find them all. Queer Youth Updates, a labor of love, has now been a source of visibility to queer and trans youth in Santa Cruz County for over 10 years. If you are interested in receiving the Queer Youth Updates newsletter you can subscribe at QYTF.org. We always welcome new queer and trans youth friendly events, resources, and content. If you have something to share, please email QYUpdates@gmail.com. The holidays can be especially challenging for LGBTQIA2S+ youth as they are often juggling their true identity and the expectations their family has of them, which aren’t always aligned. We’ve shared several wellbeing resources below that you can hopefully also share with the youth in your life.

Holiday Wellbeing Resources for LGBTQ+ Youth

Sarananda S. Osheim (she/her) is a 2008 Harbor High graduate and 2014 UCSC graduate with a B.A. in psychology. Sarananda identifies as queer and writes a monthly newsletter called “Queer Youth Updates” to promote visibility and share resources with local LGBTQIA2S+ youth in Santa Cruz County.

IMI.guide

Safe Schools Project Resources for Queer Youth and Educators in Santa Cruz County SafeSchoolsProject.org

The Trevor Project Holiday Self-Care Tips for LGBTQ Youth TheTrevorProject.org/blog/holiday-self-care-tips-for-lgbtq-youth/

GSA Network Holiday Self Care Tips GSAnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Journaling-for-Beginners.pdf

Journaling for Beginners GSAnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Journaling-for-Beginners.pdf

Emotional Safety Plan GSAnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Wellness-Wednesday-EmotionalSafety-Plan.pdf

Imi.guide Guides built for and with LGBTQ+ teens to help you explore your identity and support your mental health.

It Gets Better Project The It Gets Better Project’s mission is to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth around the globe. ItGetsBetter.org

Finding Joy: The Joys of Mama Bear-ing MICHELLE LEWIS

DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

findingjoycartoons.bigcartel.com and Instagram @FindingJoyCartoons

“Gault school encourages kids to exceed their potential.” Nadia Krilonovich, Parent

“Santa Cruz High School has only made my goals seem more possible.” Yuxuan Yan, Student

“Our son goes to school happy & comes home happy from Westlake.” Alexis Ow, Parent

“B40 Middle is a place where people can be themselves.” Aiden Parten, Student

“My has had an amazing start at Bayview. His spark is back. I couldn’t have made a better choice for him.” Courtney Jones, Parent

See what all the fuss is about. sccs.net/ enroll

“Monarch feels welcoming & engaging & refreshing & secure.” Jacquiline Johnston, Parent

“AFE has been a wonderful experience for my son.” Christopher Campbell, Parent

“Mission Hill has provided a great transition into Middle School.” Natalia Flechsig, Parent

“Our daughter wants to arrive early every day so she can spend more time at DeLaveaga.” Jessy Beckett-Parr, Parent

“Harbor High is such a great community. You never feel alone.” Natalie Blanco, Studnet

“Soquel High’s wondrous community has allowed me to forge friendships & wisdom sure to last.” Alex Pounds, Student

Welcome Back to Class!

ENROLL TODAY

At Community Bridges’ Early Education Division,

we understand that the first five years of a child’s life are crucial for their health and success. That’s why our six centers in Watsonville, Santa Cruz, and the San Lorenzo Valley are dedicated to providing nurturing and affordable early education programs. We believe that a good teacher is a guide and companion, traveling the winding road with the child. Our approach focuses on building relationships rather than controlling behavior.

Visit communitybridges.org/eed

Our values and services: • Low teacher-to-child ratios (1:8 for preschoolers and 1:4 for toddlers) • Outdoor, hands-on learning that inspires curiosity, exploration, and creativity • Developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate playbased programs • Free or affordable costs for most families on a sliding scale

GrowingUpSC.com | DECEMBER 2023

Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker Tickets at SantaCruzTickets.com More info at scbt.org

Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History 1305 East Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz 831.420.6115 info@santacruzmuseum.org https://www.santacruzmuseum.org/

Wonderland Toys & Classroom Resources 19-B Rancho Del Mar, Aptos 831-316-7261 info@wonderlandsantacruz.com

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty while attending free events and exploring exhibitions. Shop locally or online at our museum store and find unique, educational gifts. Create unforgettable memories - visit the Museum of Natural History today!

Wonderland is your small, locally owned, one-stop shop for all your holiday gifts. At Wonderland you’ll find toys, games, puzzles, books, arts & crafts, science kits, outdoor/ active play items, stuffed animals, and so much more for every kid on your list. Thank you for shopping local this holiday season!

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy 408.840.7100 guest.service@gilroygardens.org www.gilroygardens.org

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz 831.423.5590 guestservices@beachboardwalk.com beachboardwalk.com

Elissa Nesheim - Watercolor Artist Visit the Gallery Online elissanesheim.com

Wolf at the Door IG: @wolfatthedoorcreative etsy.com/shop/Wolfatthedoorcreates

Give the gift of unlimited adventures all year long with a Premium Membership to Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park. Premium Members enjoy free admission, free parking, in-park discounts and more at this beautiful place where fun grows on trees. Great for grandkids and nature lovers of all ages!

2024 Boardwalk Season Pass – Makes a great gift! Buy online and save $10 per person. Choose your pass, choose your price, starting at $89.95. A Season Pass pays for itself in less than two visits, and is the gift that keeps giving all year long.

Give the gift of art this holiday season and connect to the natural world through unique landscapes by artist Elissa Nesheim. Use code GROWSC10 for 10% off your order until December 12th, 2023

Wolf at the Door Creative is a family business based in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We create handmade botanical candles with flowers from our garden as well as other nature based products.

SCBT presents The Nutcracker with live orchestra December 9th- 10th! Experience the holiday tradition that has captivated local audiences at Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium since 2002. Starring SCBT alumni, Houston Ballet and Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancers Melody Mennite and Lucien Postlewaite with supporting cast featuring SCBT Senior Company dancers.

DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar 1100 Pacific Ave, Downtown Santa Cruz 831.469.4400 www.kiantis.com

Buy $40 in Kianti’s gift cards and receive $50 in gift cards. (12/1 - 12/24/2023) Treat your family to the Kianti’s experience. Offering patios with heaters and fireplace, catering, curbside, delivery and online ordering. Enjoy Kianti’s dance Friday & Saturday evenings.

A CHRI ST FOR TH MAS EVENT E W FAMILYHOLE !

N E W T HI S Y E A R

Music Together/MusicalMe, Inc. Locations throughout Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County Call/Text: 831-332-9002 registrar@musicalme.com musicalme.com

Give the gift of the lifelong love of music to the families in your life with littles from Birth to 5 years. Give them a gift certificate (in any amount) for our award-winning and researchbased music enrichment family class: Music Together©.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Presented by Scotts Valley Performing Arts SVPAShows.org

Scotts Valley Performing Arts presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” by Barbara Robinson, December 8-10 at the SV Cultural & Performing Arts Center. The play is a hilarious family friendly romp with a very nice twist of an ending. Details and Tickets at SVPAShows.org

A Night of Christmas Friday, December 15 | 6:30 PM

AT S AN TA CRUZ BIBLE CHURCH 440 FREDERI CK STREET , SANT A CRUZ

HOT CHOCOLATE | FAMILY-FRIENDLY KID ACTIVITIES | DESSERTS CHRISTMAS CAROLS

The Bookakery BookakeryBoxes.com

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Order a Bookakery Box and encourage a love of reading that keeps on giving! Each Bookakery Box comes with: a hardback picture book, kid-friendly recipe card, baking tool and a fun activity all based around a monthly theme. Order yours today at BookakeryBoxes.com

Coastal Oak Interiors 7960 Soquel Drive Suite D, Aptos 831.889.8290 www.coastaloakinteriors.com

A "home decor and more" store locally owned in Aptos. Featuring new, used, and vintage furniture. Also stocking a variety of giftable items for everyone on your list. We are excited to make your shopping festival an enjoyable experience

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Alicia Telfer aliciatelfer.com

Delight your loved ones with a unique present capturing their essence. From vibrant family portraits to personalized branding photoshoots, give the gift of cherished moments. Visit www.aliciatelfer.com to book your photo session! BONUS: Purchase session gift certificate between 11/25-12/24 for @midtown_santa_cruz raffle!

Om Gallery 1201 Pacific Ave ,Santa Cruz 831.425.9107 omgallery.com "

Looking for unique and meaningful gifts for everyone on your list this season? Look no further! Om Gallery is your one-stop shopping destination for all your gifting needs. From handmade treasures to mindful home decor, we’ve got something special for everyone.

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BIRTH MATTERS Help, It’s the Holidays! BY LAURA MAXSON, LM The holiday season is a busy time. Parties and events with friends and extended family can leave pregnant and new parents feeling frazzled. Here’s some help to navigate some potentially stressful holiday situations. It’s not uncommon to be exposed to potentially traumatic or frightening birth stories during social situations. While a pregnant person can simply excuse themselves from a group if the topic gets too intense, a one-on-one situation can be a little trickier. One idea is to physically reach out and touch the storyteller’s arm. Say clearly, “Oh, I’m trying not to hear any stories about (getting an epidural, having a cesarean, a baby in the intensive care unit, etc.) right now.” Offer to hear the story after the baby comes, then ask a question about something safer like diapering tips. With extended family visiting for the holidays, free-flowing parenting advice often follows. It can be difficult for grandparents and others to hear how what they did years ago, often on doctor’s orders (wean the baby, make baby sleep through the night, start solids at a few

weeks of age) is now bad advice. Assume that, however hurtful their advice may seem, it is given out of love, and perhaps ignorance of current guidelines, or your specific choices. Take a moment to see that defending your current parenting decisions might be seen as criticizing their past choices. Try to acknowledge the feelings behind the advice; “I know you are concerned about Sarah nursing so often, but…” or “I can tell you are nervous about Noah’s sleeping arrangements, but…” Give them concrete information and any facts that support your choices. You can always enlist your pediatrician’s advice. “I know you gave Michelle solids at two-months, but we agree with our doctor’s advice to do it this way.” Clearly state when a topic is not open to discussion. (Be united on this.) Take a hard look at holiday expectations. All the extras can be exhausting, especially when pregnant. • Take time out to rest. • Take advantage of online shopping. • Be sure to only eat buffet foods that are fully cooked, and served at the proper temperature. • Avoid eggnog that is not pasteurized or is made with raw eggs while pregnant.

DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

• Try not to skip meals. • Stay hydrated. Take extra care when breastfeeding, too. Being stressed or tired can lead to nursing issues. One too many postponed feeding, extra bottle, or pacifier session can lead to engorgement, plugged ducts, and/or a dip in milk supply. Is baby just fussy or actually dealing with a

decreasing milk supply – nobody wants an unexpected holiday weaning. To help avoid these issues: • Anticipate expected feeding times and encourage baby to nurse. • An overstimulated baby might sleep to cope with noisy rooms and too much handling. “Good” babies can miss important feedings.

• Put baby into a sling/carrier to keep them close and calmed • Be extra alert for cues that baby is hungry before he or she is crying. • Baby may need a quiet place to be able to focus on nursing. • Wear clothing that makes nursing easy (and if important to you, more discreet.) Suspect mastitis (a breast infection) any time a nursing parent has flu symptoms (achy-all-over feeling, headache, fever, and especially a sore breast). No matter what festivities are scheduled, symptoms of mastitis or blocked duct should take priority – rest with baby and nurse often, apply cool compresses to the affected area, and consider an anti-inflammatory medication. Most symptoms will resolve within 24 hours; if not or if they are worsening, get medical care. One of the best gifts a pregnant or new parent can give themselves is one of time. Make this the year to bring dinner rolls to the potluck, instead of a main dish. Bow out of a few activities entirely. Spend time nurturing yourself and your little one; you’ll both feel better for it. Find new traditions that better fit your new and growing family and have a happy holiday season! www.birthnet.org for local service providers including:

Pre & K Discovery

December 1 | 9:30–11:30am RSVP and more information: MountMadonnaSchool.org

Campus Tour

December 6 | 1:00–2:30pm December 9-10 2:00pm

Tickets: mms-elfthemusical.brownpapertickets.com

• Lactation help • Counseling • Parenting Support

Don’t Miss

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Presented by Scotts Valley Performing Arts SVPAShows.org

POSITIVE DISCIPLINE PARENTING Holidays with Kids: Keeping the Magic and Joy at the Center BY COLLEEN MURPHY Over the years, I have been privileged to teach with and to hear several talks given by one of our local treasures, Julie Olsen Edwards, Cabrillo College’s retired early childhood education faculty member, author, editor, and diversity/equity consultant. One of her talks regarding families and the holidays lives on in my work with families of young children. Julie’s wisdom is always golden and, paired with Positive Discipline’s practical tools, I developed solid advice for parents that I give out every year to help ensure connection and magic in children’s homes. What Memories Do We Want To Pass On? Holidays and ritual celebrations can be a time of change from the relentless, busy pace of everyday life. It offers a pause, a time to remember what’s important, and the opportunity to create lifetime memories. In a season of wintery darkness, the many celebrations of light from the Hindu holiday, Diwali, to the Solstice, to Hannukkah, to Christmas, to Kwanzaa, and many more, are meant to lighten us up. Sadly, too often many factors end up creating more darkness rather than upliftment in our lives. These factors can include the expense and stress of long-distance travel with young children, cultural and familial expectations and obligations that parents struggle to meet, the financial burden and time-consuming task of gift giving, pressure to cook and serve large meals and baked goods special to the holiday, hosting out of town family guests or staying at non-child-friendly homes of relatives, decorating the home or purchasing holiday clothes, etc. Parents under pressure with too many obligations equals stress. One role of parents that is not often talked about is the role of creating childhood memories for their family. What memories would you like your children to have? A holiday where their parents

are quick to anger and stressed out? Or a holiday where their parents are relaxed, smiling, and enjoying time together? Take a moment to recall a favorite childhood holiday memory or, if you did not have happy holidays to remember, think about what would you have liked to have happened. Picture the scene. What was happening? What was special about it? What was the feeling? The formula for making these same magical holiday memories happen for your children is to prioritize and edit. Make Holiday Plans from the Inside Out, Not the Outside In Begin by looking inside yourself and get clear about the aspects of the holiday that are very important to you and create a joyful feeling. Your list may include: 1) Time with relatives far or near 2) Cooking and eating special meals together, or baking holiday treats 3) Participation in religious or spiritual celebrations with your community 4) Taking part in acts of service for the community 5) Creating a festive home 6) Exchanging special gifts for loved ones 7) Participating in your own unique holiday family traditions and activities

—

DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

you’ve created 8) Writing and sending out holiday cards 9) Hosting a yearly holiday celebration in your home for friends and relatives or attending the many work parties and parties with neighbors/friends/family 10) Staying home for the holiday, going at a leisurely pace throughout the day, inviting family to stop by rather than venturing out To try and do all of these things and more is a formula for stress when parents are in a constant state of being stretched financially and emotionally. Stressed-out parents create stressed-out children. If you look to the outside world’s holiday expectations, (your family and culture), the holiday can become a burden. So start by searching inside your heart for your guidance. Ask yourself what you want to do, not what you should do. After you have picked 2 or 3 things on your list that make the holidays meaningful for you, prioritize them. Make sure they happen. And then… edit out the rest of the list as painful and as hard as that might be. Strategies for Letting Go Using Positive Discipline Life-skills Positive Discipline is a practice of using relationship tools and skills that apply to not just the parent/child relationship, but to all relationships in your life. Here’s a list of these tools to aid in creating an enjoyable holiday season. Boundaries: Create boundaries for your family. Practice a kind and firm, “No, but thank you,” attitude when invited to too many evening events that disrupt routines and bedtimes, too many surgery treats that inspire out-of-balance mood swings, or too many miles to travel with travel-challenged children. You are the one who will have to manage the fallout from over-taxing your children, so you get to set the boundaries that work for you. Enjoy the extra fun activities that holidays bring, but give yourself permission to have limits, knowing what is best overall for your children. Empathize: Be prepared that some family members may be disappointed in

your choices. Empathize with their wish for you to meet their expectations. There can be pressure to parade your children to all the relatives’ houses who want to see them, to stay up late until a family member arrives at the festivities, or to have your children hug and kiss relatives they barely know. It is often all done out of love. But you do not need to give in to this pressure knowing it will create challenging results. “I know you want us to stay, and I wish we could. We love you all and we need to keep to a healthy sleep schedule for everyone’s peace of mind.” Solutions: Keep a solution mindset. Be flexible, but not so flexible that you lose your healthy boundaries. For example: instead of complying with relatives who want hugs and kisses from your children who are shy or reluctant, offer the idea of blowing kisses from afar or a high five. Instead of staying at family gatherings that are overstimulating for children (who are an easily overstimulated population), go for a limited time and gracefully bow out. Instead of over-extending yourself financially due to gift giving or travel, ask family members to do simple gift exchanges or to invite them to come to you so you can relax in your child-proofed home. Get creative with your solutions; there are so many win-win options for every problem. Self-care: Parenting, like any relationship, includes care of others AND care of the self. Thus, limit your holiday commitments and family activities for your well-being. Create pockets of downtime away from the excitement for your children and yourself. Care of yourself IS care for your family Less is more during the holiday season. Give your children the gift of low-stress holidays by consciously making choices to create magical and meaningful moments for them to remember all of their lives. Happy (truly happy) Holidays! Colleen Murphy is a credentialed teacher, a Certified Positive Discipline Educator and Trainer at Positive Discipline Community Resouces (www.pdcrcc.org), a parent coach at fromtheheadtotheheart.com, and in healthy relationships with her two grown kids. Want more personal support around the holidays? Join Colleen for the online series Keeping the Joy of Parenting during the Holiday Season. Dec. 6, and 13th. 4 pm-5 pm. Send a message with your name, child(ren) age(s), and city of residence to PDCR’s text-only line to receive a Zoom link or recording if you can’t join live: 831-292-4088. Use this number to request other future free programs, or to request heart-to-heart private parent coaching.

ASK NICOLE Finding Peace and Joy During the Holidays This can seem impossible for people who are natural-born helpers and thrive when they’re busy. Yet it’s vitally important to take care of yourself so that you have the physical and emotional energy to keep going. Let go of any guilt or fear of missing out when you say no, and notice how it feels to have fewer demands on your time

BY NICOLE M. YOUNG, MSW There have been many devastating events happening the last several years, one right after another. Lives and homes have been lost, and it feels as though the tidal wave of tragedies is relentless. It’s emotionally exhausting, and it’s hard not to get weighed down with fear and sadness every time I read the news. Yet this is also a time of year when many people celebrate holidays that represent hope, peace, and new beginnings. It’s hard to feel the true meaning of these holidays when we’re stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed, but Taking Care of Yourself is one of the 5 principles of positive parenting that’s so important – now more than ever. 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, please email me at triplep@first5scc.org. Dear Nicole, The holidays are approaching, which always stresses me out no matter how much I try to embrace the holiday spirit. I love spending this special time with family, but between working full-time, managing my kids’ busy schedules, and helping my aging parents, I feel constant pressure. I’m exhausted and end up throwing “adult tantrums” when I’ve taken on too much. Do you have any tips to avoid total burnout so I can actually find joy this season, rather than just wishing it would pass quickly? I could really use some advice before the holidays get here. - Rebekah Dear Rebekah, You’re not alone! This is a common issue in many families, and the holidays have a way of magnifying emotions so that even small things become a huge deal. Here are a few tips to try: Notice the early signs of tension and stress in your body, before the “adult tantrum” occurs. Common signs can include: Tense or stiff muscles, headaches, irritability or anger, tiredness, difficulty concentrating, feeling overwhelmed or unable to keep up, and an upset stomach. Use relaxation strategies. When you’re feeling tense or stressed, try to relax your mind and body by breathing in slowly through your nose. When you’ve taken a full breath, pause for a moment, then breathe out slowly through your nose or mouth. Repeat these slow, deep breaths a few times. Or close your eyes for a few minutes and imagine a place that makes you feel peaceful and relaxed. It could be a forest, a meadow, the beach, another country, or a dark room with no one

around you. Use your imagination to see every color and hear every sound. Take deep breaths as you envision this peaceful place and imagine your stress leaving your body each time you exhale. Use coping statements. In stressful situations, you might find yourself automatically thinking negative things about yourself, other people, or the situation that’s happening, which can add to your stress. Try telling yourself some coping statements or affirmations, such as: “I will focus on what is most important this season – my own health and quality time with loved ones.” Or “I will aim for ‘good enough’ rather than perfect when it comes to gifts, meals, and hosting.” Using positive self-talk can help reframe thoughts when you notice

tension rising and prevent your stress from escalating further. Remember to acknowledge your efforts, and that joy and connection can happen even when things aren’t going flawlessly. Ask family members for their help. Have a family discussion ahead of the holidays to set expectations around celebrations, gift-giving, sharing tasks, and parenting duties with your partner or co-parent. Making these plans upfront helps prevent conflicts. Talk with your children about how they can be helpful during the holidays. Prepare them for possible changes in their daily routines, especially if you have guests staying with you. Let your children know which family rules can be flexible during the holidays, and which ones they’ll need to follow as usual. Give yourself permission to say no.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Holidays are both joyful and stressful for all types of families. Take steps to minimize stress and give yourself peace of mind so that you and your family can create memories filled with love, joy, and laughter. Nicole Young is the mother of two young adults, who also manages Santa Cruz County’s Triple P - Positive Parenting Program. 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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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 Dec. 15. Please include the child’s name, age and address so we can send out a prize.

DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

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 Dec. 15.

Aroh Age 6

Cate Age 5

Ella Age 6

Emma Age 7

Harshita Age 8

Hugh Age 6

Lena Age 7

Logan Age 7

Tommy Age 7 GrowingUpSC.com | DECEMBER 2023

TOY GUIDE Gift Ideas at Wonderland Toys

The NogginStick What it is: Here at Wonderland, we have nicknamed the NogginStik the Best Rattle Ever. Why we love it: Because it’s way more than a rattle. The head on the top of the rattle is touch activated and changes color. The handle is the perfect size for a baby’s grasp. There’s a mirror built into the bottom. The NogginStick encourages early sensory learning. The batteries are included. It makes a perfect baby shower present. Doctor Play Kit What it is: A quality, wooden doctor kit from Big Jigs with all the tools a doctor needs to help his or her stuffed animals or family and friends to feel better. Why we love it: Play is how toddlers

and young children make sense of their world. Toddlers can often be seen imitating the adults around them. They pick up phrases they hear from their caregivers, and they also love to “help” in the form of cleaning, preparing food, and other tasks they see grown ups engaging in. Pretend play is learning! Magformers What it is: Magformers are magnetic building sets that are great for inspiring kids’ STEM skills. With magformers you can make 2D shapes or 3D structures. Why we love it: There are lots of

20 DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

different Magformers kits and you can always add on to your collection by getting a new, different kit. Magformers are great for preschool-aged kids who are learning to build, create and explore their world. We notice that Magformers are loved by adults too, since magnetic building toys can be quite satisfying and addictive. Hey Clay kits What it is: Hey Clay kits come with soft, lightweight, nontoxic, and stainfree clay and sculpting tools- perfect for young artists taking their first step into the magical world of clay creativity.

The fun starts once you download the free app and gain full access using the code included in the box. Follow along with the interactive 3D step-by-step instructions to masterfully mold cute creatures, one simple shape at a time. Why we love it: We love that this clay is air dry. We also love that it’s great for kids of all ages, and you can create with or without the app! Shashibo What it is: The Shashibo is an awardwinning magnetic fidget and puzzle toy. You can fold and move your Shashibo to create over 70 shapes. It’s STEAM accredited and a great way to boost creativity, relax and get away from technology. Why we love it: One of our favorite features of the shashibo is the way they work with each other. You can collect lots of shashibos and they magnetically connect to each other to create even more shapes.

MIGHTY PRODUCE MINUTE: 60 Fresh Feature: Satsuma Tangerines End of the Local Season, “Grab ‘Em before while You Can” • Cantaloupes • Mini Seedless Watermelons • California Seedless Grapes • Local Leaf Lettuces • Local Bush Berries • Prima Yellow Peaches

BY SANTO SARRICCO Satsuma Tangerines are a type of Mandarin Orange that is related to Tangerines, Clementines and Tangelos. Satsuma Tangerines are round or slightly flattened, three to four inches in diameter, with orange-red skin that is loose, slightly bumpy, and extremely easy to peel. The fruit is a dark orange color, extremely tender, and usually seedless, though it may contain a few creamcolored seeds. In terms of flavor, the fruit is sweet, sometimes described as the sweetest of all citrus fruits, with slight acidity. Satsuma Tangerines are fresh in season from November through February. And remember, most citrus sweetness is a product of Mother Nature’s cold evening temperatures. Hence, the colder the evening temperature, the sweeter the citrus! Nutritional Value: One large (120 grams) Satsuma mandarin contains 102 grams of water and provides 64 calories, 16 grams of carbs, along with 2 grams of fiber, 1 gram of protein, and less than half a gram of fat. It also provides 32 milligrams of

vitamin C, which is about 36 percent of the USDA daily value, making Satsumas an excellent source of this nutrient. New to the Market: • Fresh Cranberries • Fuyu Persimmons • Pomegranates • Brussel Sprout Stalks • Okinawa Yams • Rocket Apples • Little Gem lettuce • Cape Gooseberries • Lil’ Tiger Stripe Pumpkins • Murasaki Sweet Potatoes

How to Select… That Perfect Pick: Honeydew Melons: White Flesh with Emerald Meat. Always look for a heavy and dense in weight melon, and a waxy rather than smooth exterior skin. Look for “a little give” at the stem end. And with very melon selection…”Say a Prayer!” Storage Suggestions at Your Home: Add Life to Your Living Produce Fresh Mushrooms, all varieties, sizes and shapes: Dust-Off any Soils with a paper towel, place the mushrooms in a Brown Paper Bag with the top of the bag remaining open; Place in the bottom of your refrigerator

Nutrition Tip: “Eat Fresh and Be Healthy” Kiwi Fruit, “The Chinese Gooseberry” medium size selection • More Potassium than a Banana • Great Source of Immune-boosting Vitamin C • Cholesterol-Free • Sodium-Free • Fat-Free • Gluten-Free • 10 g carbs • 0.4 g Fat • 2.1 g Fiber • 0.8 g Potassium Go to Market TRENDS: Coming to your produce department Package Artichokes. Stop being “BIT” by that artichoke! And longer life in your refrigerator Mighty Blues, a bigger, plumper and juicier blueberry from Naturipe Farms in 8oz packs. Tuscan Salad Blends, multiple varieties from Church Bros. Produce in Salinas

GrowingUpSC.com | DECEMBER 2023

SAT 9

ONGOING Winter Wonderland Enjoy festive holiday decorations and lights, treats, photos with Santa, fire pit and holiday shopping at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk beachboardwalk.com/winterwonderland Holiday Lights The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation and the Agricultural History Project will again present this annual event at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. Holiday Lights will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in November and Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in December from 5:30pm to 9pm. It will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. There will be a walk-thru on Dec. 2-3. fairgrounds-foundation.org/holiday-lights Christmas Wonderland This is a walk-in Christmas display located in the midtown of Santa Cruz. Their exhibit is very traditional with lots of Christmas decorations. There are also waterfalls and fairies that can be viewed on special nights and event snow. farleyschristmas-wonderland.com

FRI 1 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

SAT 2 Early Bird Tour 1:30-11:30am Amateur and expert birders alike will find a place on the Early Bird Tour at Elkhorn Slough. Local guides lead these 2-3 mile walks, sharing the life histories of the birds that call Elkhorn Slough home, and giving tips on identifying species. elkhornslough.org/ visit/calendar Book Sale 10am-3pm The Scotts Valley Friends of the Library are holding a winter book sale at the Fireside Lounge at the Scotts Valley Library located at 251 Kings Village Road. All proceeds benefit the Scotts Valley Library.

SUN 3 Makers Market Popup 11am-4pm Visit the Makers Market featuring local makers & artists at Balefire Brewing Co on East Cliff Drive. This monthly market hosts a wide range of locally handmade goods. scmmakersmarket.com Meet the Doulas 6-7pm Meet and talk with birth and postpartum doulas as you learn how they work with families. Sponsored by Birth Network of Santa Cruz County, this free event is open to those planning to birth in Santa Cruz, and surrounding counties. Registration required for login information. birthnet.org

TUES 5 Gateway School Tour 9-11amVisit us on one of our monthly Tuesday tours. Hang with our kindergartners on Kindy Island, see what’s growing in our Life Lab outdoor classroom, join our middle schoolers for a science experiment, and see first hand the unique benefits of a K - 8 education. Wonderland Birthday Celebration Celebrate Wonderland’s 8th Birthday. Visit and take pictures with Santa from 3-5pm. Grownups only shopping and light refreshments event 7-9pm. wonderlandsantacruz.com

FRI-SUN 8-10 The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 7:30 pm Dec. 8-9, 2pm Dec 9-10 The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Presented by Scotts Valley Performing Arts The play is a hilarious family-friendly romp with a very nice twist of an ending. Details and tickets at SVPAShows.org At the Scotts Valley Cultural & Performing Arts Center. SVPAShows.org

SAT-SUN 9-10

VAPA5000, Room 5156 Donations will be accepted at the door. cabrillo.edu/ cabrillo-youth-strings.

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-thefarm

SUN 10 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. Breakfast with Santa 8am-noon Kick off the holiday season at Ramsay Park, 1301 Main Street, Watsonville. A great breakfast, holiday games, raffle prizes and personal time with Santa makes a great day for the whole family. Book your tickets at rb.gy/n7pdbb. Meet the Grinch 2-4pm The Grinch is back at Bookshop Santa Cruz and ready to prove to the residents of Who-ville that he’s changed. This heartwarming sequel is written and illustrated in the style of Dr. Seuss’s beloved holiday classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

WED-FRI 13-16 Santa Tour 4-7pm Santa and his special guests will spread holiday cheer as they visit parts of Watsonville. watsonville. gov/2119/Santa-Tour

FRI 15 Cabrillo Youth Strings Recital 7-8pm Cabrillo Youth Strings students will perform solos and quartets in this festive recital. The Recital will be held in the Cabrillo College Music Building,

Winter Concert 7-8:30pm The Watsonville Community Band will perform various holiday favorites as we celebrate the season with a Winter Concert. Conductor Brad Gronroos leads a familyfriendly concert to spread the holiday cheer with our hometown community. Series mellocenter.org/upcoming-events

SAT-SUN 16-17 The Nutcracker Showings at 1pm and 4:30pm each cay. International Academy of Dance in Santa Cruz County, presents The Nutcracker! Get swept away by the beauty of Clara and friends, as we travel to the magical Land of Sweets.

SAT 16 Holiday Market Noon-3pm Come support young entrepreneurs and their families at the 2nd annual Acton Academy Santa Cruz Holiday Craft and Business Fair. They will be selling art, crafts, wreaths, food, clothing, dog toys, plants, essential oils and more. actonsantacruz. org

SUN 17 Holiday Market 10am-3pm The annual tradition of the Felton Holiday Market will again take place on the historic covered bridge. Enjoy arts & crafts, food & beverages, music and oliday lights. slvpost.com/event/holiday-market-atfelton-covered-bridge-park/

FRI 22 Gingerbread House Building 5-7pm Head to the Children’s Museum of Discovery for a festive evening of Gingerbread House decorating. The museum will provide all the gingerbread pieces, icing, candy, and decorations they need so your whole family can enjoy the holiday fun without the mess. sccmod.org/ event-details/gingerbread-house-building

Natural Bridges Tidepool Tours Explore the ocean without getting your feet wet on this exciting tidepool tour! Join an interpretive docent to climb up the rocky trail and out to view the amazing animals that make their home in Santa Cruz tidepools. parks.ca.gov/Events/ Details/15021

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.

22 DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

MINDY ABRAHAM

Fine Chinese Dining in Aptos • New owners • Friendly service • Fresh ingredients

More information at scms.org or call 831-476-1646

7960 Soquel Drive, Aptos • (831) 685-2121

No power? No problem.

SLVUSD Charter School In changing times, we inspire students to change their worlds

Our diverse TK-12 programs promote academic success while integrating social-emotional development and Life Skills. Collaboration and creativity foster a personalized approach to learning, and parent and community involvement support our students’ success.

Upcoming information nights for the 2024-25 school year:

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Restrictions apply. Only available in areas within range of applicable 4G LTE cellular signal. Limited to Xfinity Internet customers with 800 Mbps service or higher and compatible Xfinity Gateway. Internet speed tier requirements may vary in specific markets. Storm-Ready WiFi device requires Xfinity Battery Backup, included in price. Taxes and fees extra and subject to change. Fully charged Xfinity Battery Backup will provide up to 4 hours of power to the Xfinity Storm-Ready WiFi device. Device runs on cellular 4G LTE (data plans not affected). During outages, Internet will be reduced to speeds up to 30 Mbps download / 7 Mbps upload. Actual speeds will vary and are not guaranteed and may be impacted by a variety of environmental and other factors, including network congestion. Xfinity does not guarantee that 4G LTE will be available in all locations or that a connection will be obtainable. Assumes average power outage of two hours, excluding major events (U.S. Energy Information Administration). In times of congestion, your data may be temporarily slower than other traffic. Storm-Ready WiFi may not be compatible with all changes in the network. For more details, visit xfinity.com/stormready. NPA400406-0001

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9/27/23 7:13 PM

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Thursday, February 8, 2024, 6-7 pm: TK-12 Homeschool Hybrid programs

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Thursday, February 15, 2024, 6-7pm: Gr. 6-8 Nature Academy program

Check out our website for program information and how to apply at https://charter.slvusd.org/ For more information: (831) 335-0932

FAMILY GUIDE

swim class for parents and their babies to Aquaphobics, our adult beginner class, the whole family splashes together at Jim Booth Swim School. Little Otters is a gentle introduction to our 94-degree pools 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, wellqualified teachers. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School!” Junebug’s Gym

ENRICHMENT

First 5 Santa Cruz County

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

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.com/triplepscc

Alison K. Jackson, DDS

We provide comprehensive dentistry in a caring environment for children of all ages. We are preventive-dentistry oriented and very thorough in our evaluations and consultations. We have a pediatric anesthesiologist on our premises and are able to treat special, challenging children safely and comfortably under a general anesthesia. We have a 24-hour emergency service available for all of our patients. Community Bridges WIC Program

South County/Watsonville 18 W. Lake Avenue Suite A 831-722-7121 North County/Santa Cruz 1105 Water Street, Santa Cruz 831.426.3911 Communitybridges.org/WIC

WIC provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health care and social services for millions of families, and it plays a crucial role in improving lifetime health for women, their infants, and young children. Part of the nation’s nutrition safety net for over 45 years, WIC serves pregnant and post-partum women, infants, and children through their fifth birthday. Annually, Community Bridges WIC program serves over 500 pregnant women, 800 breastfeeding women, 1,100 infants, and 3,800 children offering a comprehensive range of services to promote healthy lifestyles both on-site and online.

“I have received so much help from WIC from nutritional classes to just being able to ask questions like is my child eating enough or are the eating too much and also with breastfeeding support.” - Paloma, WIC participant

831.465.2217 First5scc.org

International Academy of Dance

320 Encinal Street, Santa Cruz 831.466.0458 IADance.com info@IADance.com

Dance For JOY! Classical Ballet - Lyrical - Jazz - Tap - Hip-Hop - Acro ~ Ages 2-Adult. Providing world class instruction in an encouraging and supportive community ~ Inspiring students of all ages to develop a lifelong love of dance ~ Honing each individuals artistry, technique, focus and musicality ~ Finding balance, agility, strength and flexibility in dance and in life ~ Generating energy and growth ~ Bringing joy to every class and performance! Determination. Discipline. Perseverance. Resilience. Passion. Come to every class… because you love it! We can’t wait to see you in the studio and on stage!

“I love the twirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers and the naughty gingerbread in the Santa Cruz City Ballet Nutcracker. Best of all is the joy of the performers. The venue at the Crocker Theater is the best. My family comes back to watch the performance year after year!” - Viewer Jim Booth Swim School

Harvey West pool in Santa Cruz and Watsonville 831.722.3500 jimboothswimschool.com Be a water wonder! From our Little Otters

24 DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz 831.464.BUGS (2847) junebugsgym.com JuneBug’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 their imaginations, and to feel confidence and joy in their exploration of movement. MusicalMe, Inc. offering Music Together™

Locations throughout Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County Call/Text: 831.332.9002 registrar@musicalme.com musicalme.com Elevate your family’s experience with the gift of music! Explore the wonders of Music Together®, a cutting-edge music enrichment program for children aged birth to 5, and the adults who hold them dear. This researchbacked program not only enhances your child’s development across various domains but also strengthens family bonds, offering a valuable addition to your parenting toolkit. Siblings (infants under 8 months are free!) are welcome. Contact us for a free class or gift certificate (GREAT holiday gift!). Santa Cruz Parks and Rec

santacruzparksandrec.com.

Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation is excited to provide fun, educational, and active classes for all ages all year round! Scholarships are available. Find our seasonal Activity Guide online – www.cityofsantacruz.com/register. Seven Directions Creative Learning Center

831.713.9392 sevendirections.org sevendirectionsinfo@gmail.com

Seven Directions is Santa Cruz’s premiere creative center for kids and teens! Offering instruction in various arts, sciences, and more in a lively studio with over 30 live exotic animals, we are committed to helping to nurture students’ self-esteem, building lasting friendships, and empowering them as artists, learners, and creative thinkers.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Presented by Scotts Valley Performing Arts SVPAShows.org Scotts Valley Performing Arts presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” by Barbara Robinson, December 8-10 at the SV Cultural & Performing Arts Center. The play is a hilarious family-friendly romp with a very nice twist of an ending. Details and Tickets at SVPAShows.org Wonderland Toys & Classroom Resources

19-B Rancho Del Mar, Aptos 95003 (next to Safeway) 831-316-7261 info@wonderlandsantacruz.com www.wonderlandsantacruz.com

Wonderland is your small, locally owned, onestop shop for all the children and teens in your life. At Wonderland you’ll find toys, games, puzzles, books, arts & crafts, science kits, outdoor/active play items, stuffed animals, and so much more. Thank you for shopping local at our women-owned, small family business.

SCHOOLS

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 change-making 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.” -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 on the importance of play, equity, and social-emotional learning as key foundations for academic skills 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 you, we invite you to stand tall and thrive with us!

“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.” - Current parent at Highlands Park Early Education Center Gateway School, K-8th grade

255 Swift Street, Santa Cruz 831.423.0341 gatewaysc.org

Located on the west side of Santa Cruz, Gateway School provides students in grades Kindergarten through 8th grade with an exemplary education. Small class sizes and programs in Art and Technology, Music, Spanish, and Life Lab complement a robust academic curriculum grounded in Social Emotional Learning. We value collaboration, creativity, and a love of learning, and encourage our students to become compassionate and responsible citizens. Gateway School is the only K-8 school in Santa Cruz accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Its mission is to inspire children to lead lives of purpose and compassion through scholarship and citizenship, and all are welcome. Learn more by visiting gateways.org. Mount Madonna School, Preschool12th grade

491 Summit Road, Watsonville 408.847.2717

www.MountMadonnaSchool.org Mount Madonna School (MMS) prioritizes the social, emotional and physical well-being of its students, while emphasizing academic excellence, positive character development, and creative self-expression. MMS strives to prepare well-rounded humans who succeed in college, value collaboration, form meaningful relationships, and engage with their communities, nation, and the world. Visit MMS and learn how its transformative education is within reach for your family. Flexible tuition and transportation are available, with bus stops throughout Santa Cruz County. MMS does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, medical condition, gender identity, or gender expression.

Orchard School K-6

2288 Trout Gulch Road, Aptos 831.688.1074 orchardschoolaptos.org Orchard School, established over 30 years ago, provides a unique, yet comprehensive K-6 education. At Orchard, we weave together the magic of an extraordinary faculty, a 14-acre campus and a down to earth philosophy that nourishes and honors the natural growth and development of children. Small class sizes, an organic garden and an animal farm create enriching “whole child” learning experiences that are hands-on and individualized. We provide Strong Core Academics, Lab-Based Science Curriculum, Art, Music, Physical Theater/Circus Arts, Electives, Ceramics, Archery, Swimming, Leadership, Field Trips, Drama Productions, and more. Santa Cruz City Schools

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

At Santa Cruz City Schools, students find belonging, room to explore & high expectations. In Transitional Kindergarten & Kindergarten, students are welcomed into education with a play-centric, curiosity-driven experience. In Elementary, students learn in classrooms, gardens, kitchens, art studios, and in the field–and in our after-school enrichment programs. In Middle School, we encourage independence and emotional development as students push themselves academically. In High School, we provide countless opportunities: more AP classes, more athletics, more artistic and performance outlets, more leadership opportunities, more community connections and more supports to launch students into their next adventure in college or career excellence.

Santa Cruz Waldorf School, PreK-8

2190 Empire Grade, Santa Cruz 831.425.0519 santacruzwaldorf.org enrollment@santacruzwaldorf.org

Santa Cruz Waldorf School nurtures the whole human being in every individual, cultivating the capacity of head, heart, and hands. We offer a rich and balanced curriculum in which intellectual and artistic development are both vital and fully integrated. Specialty teachers work alongside class teachers to provide students with diverse experiences in language, movement, music, arts, games, and gardening. Our magical, rural campus is nestled in the redwoods above USCS. Our community is warm and joyful. We are committed to protecting childhood, supporting each individual, respecting nature and all life. Santa Cruz Waldorf School cultivates self-directed, empathetic, and free-thinking individuals with the courage and capacities to serve an ever-evolving humanity.

SLVUSD Charter School

325 Marion Ave, Ben Lomond 831.335.0932 charter.slvusd.org/ Since 1993, San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District’s SLV Charter School has offered a range of programs that support a variety of learners. Active learning, parent involvement, and student voice are key components of our programs. In addition to supporting all academic areas, charter programs foster student creativity, social-emotional development, and the pursuit of individual student passions. Built on a foundation of strong ongoing teacher, student, and parent collaboration, SLV Charter boasts a wide variety of program structures including: Nature Academy’s 5-day week program (6-8), six 2-4 day a week homeschool-hybrid programs (K-12), and an independent studies program (K-12).

COMING JANUARY Independent Schools Guide Email us to advertise! Advertising@GrowingUpSC.com

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) 2446 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 lifelong learning and a more peaceful world by nurturing the natural development of the whole child.

GrowingUpSC.com | DECEMBER 2023

YOUR HEALTH Moment of Gratitude BY JAIME MCFADEN Wishing you a very healthy and happy holiday season. I want to take a moment of GRATITUDE and Thank you for reading my column this year, I hope you have implemented some of the self-care tips I’ve shared. My goal is to raise awareness to self-care starting in our home. As we get into the moments with family, holiday hustle and all things seasonal this is a great time for reflection. One of my biggest tips for enhancing wellness is through a gratitude practice. But first, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that there are times where you may find it difficult to harness a gratitude practice. Pain, suffering. Tough times, it can all make the idea of a gratitude practice seem very difficult, yet that is when it is needed most. Having gratitude is NOT meant to be easy. However, it is a practice you can implement daily that will inevitably change your life. Gratitude in and of itself is a frame of mind and you must raise your awareness to it if you want to harness it. You have to consciously say YES to this practice and like building muscle, the more reps you put in, the more gratitude you will have. Here are a few ways you can harvest your gratitude practice now: REFLECT with growth in mind. How has this year shaped you as a parent? What challenges or obstacles have you overcome? Just by raising awareness to

Here is a moment of gratitude for this year filled with community and a growing village. your growth is a form of gratitude. How can you reframe these tough times in your life to see the value in them? Get your family involved. At dinner or in the morning, as a family in my house we share something we feel gratful for. Or we do a “rose + thorn” pratcice - sharing something that we are thankful for and something that was hard for us and we honor both with gratitude. There was a

recent study at Stanford University that shared gratitude is linked to better health and lowering stress. (link below for article) Be intentional with your energy and make a point to celebrate life with your family in a way that feels good - not just because you feel pressured. Create your own traditions and if you feel up to it, give back. There are many people struggling this season and maybe you make

Voted #1 Toy Store in Good Times Best of Santa Cruz County

part of your family gratitude practice is to bring your love to others. Spreading cheer is another form of giving thanks. RADICAL ACCEPTANCE. So much of life is out of our control. The choices we make, reactions or ways we respond to life is what makes the difference. Although times may be difficult, finding a practice in cultivating radical acceptance and being grateful for what you have vs what you don’t. This holiday season try to take space to embrace the tiny beautiful moments in your day - maybe a laugh with a loved one, or the scent of a beautiful pine tree - gratitude comes in all sizes and shapes. Try raising more awareness to the small gifts in your life. For many of us the holidays are full of love and cheer, also for many they are stressful and difficult - either way, harnessing a daily gratitude practice will support your overall well-being. It is also helpful in getting a head start on our selfcare for the new year. 2024 is just around the corner and I will take some time in these final 2 months to reflect and hold gratitude for the miracles, as well as the mundane moments in life. For what we perceive is what we believe. Share your gratitude practice with us at growing up santa cruz instagram eatingwell.com/practicing-gratitudelinked-to-happiness-better-health-83853

19B Rancho Del Mar Aptos | (next to Safeway off State Park Dr.) 26 DECEMBER 2023 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz

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GrowingUpSC.com | DECEMBER 2023