John Koenig, Joshua Logan, Ben Dudley, Coco Kettmann, Monica Menard Yesenia GomezCarrillo, Tovah Petra Kolodinski, Steven Weiss, Sarah Nofi, Kay Mackenzie, Malia Fort
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Bobbi Jo Palmer
AD REPRESENTATIVES
Ann Fitts Sophie Veniel Bob Pursley advertising@growingupsc.com
CONTACT US
408.656.1519 editor@growingupsc.com
P.O. Box 3505, Santa Cruz, CA 95063
DECEMBER 2025 | VOL. 29 NO. 12 Printed by Folger Graphics.
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.
The staff at Growing Up can’t wait for Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s production of A Christmas Carol, so we decided to dress up and get into the festive spirit ourselves with a team photo. The holidays will be here before we know it, but we hope you’ll remember to slow down, take a breath, and spend time with the people who matter most.
This edition is packed with helpful advice on keeping the season from feeling overwhelming, and our calendar is full of great events happening throughout the county. We’ve also received so many wonderful photo submissions from our community this year, and we thank you! We hope to see even more in the year ahead, so keep them coming.
If you’re looking to earn a little extra cash, consider helping us by selling ads for the magazine or recommending it to other businesses if you advertise already. And if you’re in a position to contribute, we always appreciate donations or page sponsorships through ad purchases. Your support means the world to us, and we truly couldn’t do this without you. We’re excited to continue growing with you next year.
On the Cover
Tickets are on sale for Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s production of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, a festive holiday tradition for the whole family. Running now through December 24 at the Veterans Memorial Hall at 846 Front St. in Downtown Santa Cruz, audiences can expect a theatrical and music-filled adaptation of this classic play. Directed by Charles Pasternak and Alicia Gibson, A Christmas Carol stars Mike Ryan as Ebenezer Scrooge, with returning favorites Julie James, Charlotte Munson and Andrea Sweeney Blanco. Get tickets and learn more at santacruzshakespeare.org.
Should Kids Enter College After High School?
BY JOHN KOENIG
I think that they should. It’s their choice, but I think it’s helpful because it gets you ready for life. There’s a lot of different majors you can try at a community college. I haven’t decided on a major, but I like architecture.
You can do things without going to college, but I think people should go to college because you can get so many more jobs and you’re setting yourself up for success. I want to be a trauma surgeon.
I’m a senior in the college application process, seeing where I get in to study business or digital marketing. If I don’t get into my top choices like Cal Poly, I think I’ll go to Cabrillo and then transfer and save like $80,000.
I would say yes, especially if you want a better career. I’m planning on majoring in Marine Biology. I have a scholarship to Cabrillo because I wrote an essay on why I want to be a Marine Biologist, and I won the scholarship.
For nearly five decades, Atlantis Fantasyworld has been Santa Cruz’s definitive destination for comic book lovers. What started as one musician’s personal collection has evolved into a community landmark that’s weathered earthquakes, the pandemic, and the everchanging landscape of the comic book industry. Opening in 1976, the store is now approaching its 50th anniversary—a milestone that speaks to owner Joe Ferrara’s passion and the community that has supported it.
Ferrara’s love for the medium started early. “I loved comics as a kid,” he recalls. “My mom complained to the nuns... ‘he only wants to read comics.’ And God bless them, the nuns of the 50s said, ‘Mrs. Ferrara, he’s reading.’”
That early passion, and the nuns’ blessing, set the stage for a lifetime. In an era where independent bookstores have struggled, Atlantis has remained a constant presence—a place where multiple generations have discovered their first superhero and where community is built one comic at a time. FROM STAGE TO STORE
Joe Ferrara’s path to comic shop owner wasn’t straightforward. He was a full-time musician, playing in a rock group and a folk group in high school before “playing in the clubs, the folk music and stuff, when I was 19.” His love for comics was rekindled in college. “One of my roommates,” he says, “was a guy who was literally writing comics to put himself through school... His name was Mike Friedrich.”
This got Ferrara back into the hobby, and from 1971 to 1976, he became an avid collector, “buying comics in San Jose wherever I could find them.” By the time he moved, he had “acquired 6,000 comics”.
The real turning point came on August 15, 1976, when he moved to Santa Cruz “with no intention of opening a business”. He quickly discovered the local comic scene was lacking and found himself driving back to San Jose twice a week.
That’s when his mother stepped in with a suggestion that would change his life.
“I was at my mom’s having dinner,” Ferrara recounts. He’d just told some friends his 6,000-comic collection took “one pickup to move” and that he’d “probably... sell them at a convention someday.”
“And my mom, between bites, says, ‘He’ll probably open his own store.’ Bang. That did it. That was like the tuning fork. My body just started vibrating, and starting the next day...”
He took the leap. On November 26, 1976—the day after Thanksgiving— Atlantis Fantasyworld opened its doors on Lower Pacific Avenue. “I was making a pretty good living as a full time musician and never planned to do anything else,” he says. But the store, which he initially considered a hobby, took off. Six months later, it got a massive, unexpected boost.
Mon-Tues 10am-6pm, Wed-Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 11am-6pm
“Six months later we got the first Star Wars movie,” Ferrara says. “Who the hell knew that was coming?... The comic adaptation became just the hottest ticket... a new comic went from 15 to 20 to 25 cents. When I opened the store, a new comic was 30 cents.”
Even as the store grew, he kept his first love alive. In October 1976, just before the store opened, he started a singing gig at the Grape Stake (now Cafe Cruz), a job he held for 13 years until the 1989 earthquake.
SURVIVING
THE BIG ONE
On October 17, 1989, the Loma Prieta earthquake devastated downtown Santa Cruz. Ferrara was in the store when the 5:04 PM quake hit.
“I was running to the front door,” he says, “and I literally saw this rolling wave of a tremor... it’s pretty hard to imagine when you see concrete and asphalt... that it looks fluid, like a wave... And when it hit those bricks [around a tree], they shot up like champagne corks. And I thought, ‘Well, it’s a good thing I wasn’t standing there.’ Because that force would have killed you.”
The store’s original wooden building “gave” rather than collapsed, but the area was destroyed. After 13 years in their first location, the quake forced them to relocate. Atlantis became one of 45 businesses that moved into the temporary “tent pavilions” set up downtown. This wasn’t a short-term fix; Ferrara and his team operated out of the tents for three years.
“The first year there was no heat,” he remembers. “You could see your
breath in the air, but people came and supported us.” It was a chaotic, communal survival. “Everybody would walk over and adjust the thermostats... until we had meetings and said, ‘Okay, we’re going to do this... If you’re in the front, wear a coat. If you’re in the middle, hey, deal with it.’ Things you don’t think of, you know?”
A New Chapter, A New Philosophy
In 1992, Atlantis moved into its current, permanent home at 1020 Cedar Street. It’s a city-owned building, part of the parking structure. Ferrara was proactive in securing the spot, having learned from his time in the tents. “I knew that I wanted to be where there was going to be easy parking,” he says, “and not on Pacific, with all the hassles.”
This new, larger space allowed him to finally implement the unique organizational philosophy he’d always envisioned. Walk into Atlantis and you’ll notice it’s not like other comic shops.
“It started out with a bunch of collectors... they were either Marvel zombies or DC... it was like Republicans and Democrats, you know, you didn’t mix,” Ferrara explains of the old-school model. “And so you walk into an average shop, and they’ll say, ‘Here’s our Marvels, here’s our DCs, and here’s all the independents over here.’”
He knew there was a better way. “When you go into a bookshop,” he says, “you don’t say, ‘Where do you keep your Random House books?’ You say, ‘Where’s your history section?’... So we rack by genre... we rack by content.”
This user-friendly system was designed for approachability. “If grandma’s trying to buy something for the kids,” he explains, “she doesn’t know if Superman’s a DC or a Marvel. She knows the characters”. The store’s layout reflects this: “It starts at the front with kids, and as you move through the store, it gets more sophisticated.”
“IT’S ABOUT THE INTERACTION”
For Ferrara, the store’s longevity comes down to one thing: community. He emphasizes that Atlantis is built on “interaction,” not just “transaction.” It’s a “legacy business” that now serves “second and almost third-generation customers”.
“During the holidays,” he says, “somebody will walk in the door and go, ‘Do you remember me?’ And I look and go, ‘Yeah, but the face doesn’t belong here, it belongs here’” (gesturing to a child’s height). “And then they’re bringing in their kids.”
This philosophy is summed up in the store’s official mission statement: “Everybody who walks out the door feels better than when they walked in”. “And if you can do that,” he adds, “all the other stuff takes care of itself”.
This sense of community is fostered by a dedicated, long-term staff, like 19-year veteran Trisha and 15-year veteran Nate. “If you hire the right people,” Ferrara says, “then you don’t have to worry about it... I have been blessed over the years. I’ve had some amazing, amazing people.” He personally mentored Nate on how to professionally grade back-issue comics, a skill that is crucial to the 30% of their business that now comes from buying collections.
As Atlantis approaches its 50th anniversary, Ferrara says the plan is to “thank the community” that has supported them, lining up a year of special events, publisher features, and guest writers. After all these years, he has no plans to step away.
“People say, ‘When are you going to retire?’” Ferrara laughs. “I go, ‘This is the kind of job people get when they retire! I’m not digging ditches! I’m sitting... paying bills, I’m pushing paperwork around, and I come out and say hello to visitors. That’s what docents do!’”
Waves in Santa Cruz
Gilroy Gardens gilroygardens.org
The holiday magic is back! From November 28 through December 31, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of North Pole Nights at Gilroy Gardens. This extraordinary experience includes jolly characters, fun live shows, ice skating under the stars, festive food and drinks, Santa’s Workshop, magical light displays—and much, much more!
School of Psychogeographic Arts
34 Seascape Village, Aptos psychogeographicarts@gmail.com www.psychogeographicarts.com
Gift an experience at the School of Psychogeographic Arts! Registration is open for spring semester art classes and 2026 summer camps. Gift certificates are also available. For students that want to create their own class theme, studio time is available with private instruction. Art and outdoor exploration by the Seascape!
Santa Cruz Shakespeare
501 Upper Park Rd, Santa Cruz 831.460.6399 info@santacruzshakespeare.org santacruzshakespeare.org
Tickets are on sale for Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s production of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, a festive holiday tradition for the whole family. Running now through Dec. 24 at the Veterans Memorial Hall at 846 Front St. in Downtown Santa Cruz, audiences can expect a theatrical and music-filled adaptation of this classic
Inc. offering Music Together™
Throughout Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County Call/Text: 831.332.9002 registrar@musicalme.com musicalme.com
Give them something they’ll carry in their hearts, not their hands: a Gift Certificate to a Music Together class! Share the magic of music and enrich their lives with a meaningful experience that nurtures development and bonding. Birth to 5 years old.
Seven Directions Creative Learning Center Santa Cruz 831.713.9392 sevendirectionsinfo@gmail.com sevendirections.org
Seven Directions is Santa Cruz’s
and
Junebug’s Gym
3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz 831.464.BUGS (2847) junebugsgym.com
Give a gift of a Junebug’s gym Class! JuneBug’s Gym is a place where your child can experience a fun-filled adventure in movement. Our caring staff encourages your child to build strength and confidence through movement. Through gymnastics, we help them master fundamental motor skills and nurture their self-esteem. To learn more, see our website at JuneBugsgym.com!
Join our team! We’re looking for energetic, outgoing people who love connecting with the community and want to help local businesses shine. Flexible hours, great experience, and a chance to be part of something meaningful.
City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department
323 Church Street Santa Cruz, Ca 95060 831-420-5270
parksandrec@santacruzca.gov www.santacruzca.gov
Give the gift of joy, movement, and community this holiday season! A Parks & Recreation gift card offers access to swim passes, classes, programs, and fun for all ages. It’s meaningful, flexible, and encourages wellness all year long. Share the gift of recreation—memories make the best presents!”
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
1305 East Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz 831.420.6115
info@santacruzmuseum.org
www.santacruzmuseum.org Find
Current advertisers: refer someone who purchases an ad and receive a special bonus!
Email advertising@growingupsc.com to learn more.
MUSIC Local Mom Creates Free Guitar-Learning App
BY MALIA FORT
Say hello to Brooke Muse. Brooke is a local new mom currently developing a music app called Rukus. Brooke was born and raised in Santa Cruz, she has a degree in hospitality and professional background in tech. She worked for a nonprofit tech company called Humanitix, where 100 percent of the profits from selling tickets go to charity. Rukus is a simple app made for you to work on music whether you are a beginner or advanced, to help find your flow and increase micro learning.
The idea is that you can line up guitar chords and play through a song, making it easier to work on learning a piece during a practice session. Brooke also included a feature that lets you connect with a real guitar instructor for live lessons.
Brooke has been playing guitar for three years, finding any chance she can get to play. But once she got pregnant she struggled playing guitar. After her daughter was born, Brooke couldn’t wait to play guitar again. But the moment she picked it up, she felt like the skills she had spent years building had suddenly vanished.
Brooke was trying to find an app that had chord flashcards or anything to work on her guitar skills. In between naps and
taking care of her daughter she started to brainstorm about her app, began messing around with ChatGPT. Brooke used this to help her figure out coding and the steps necessary to create an app.
She turned to AI to help solve her more complex questions, and she credits a nocode platform called Thunkable, based in San Francisco, for providing crucial support. They walked her through step by step when she was faced with challenging questions. Brooke says she came up with the idea and creative side of it, and praises the helpful tools of ChatGPT and Thunkable. Brooke is a great example of how no matter what you can or can not do,
if you are committed enough to the result you can make it happen.
Brooke needs 2,000 people to download her free app so it can stay on our electronics. If she ends up gaining enough revenue she would love to develop more apps in the future. The creation of the app took around three months from ideation, to creation to publication. She named the app Rukus because she used to play guitar during breaks at work and was always making a bit of a ruckus.
She encourages others to “dare to suck” and to play for fun and for yourself, without worrying about looking foolish. Getting the app tested and approved wasn’t easy; it took two full weeks of nonstop testing before it was finally published in July. Rukus uses a connective learning approach to guitar, blending tablature with both chaos and order to keep players engaged.
The “chaos” comes from chords flashing at you randomly, pushing you to play shapes you may not have tried before, similar to using Quizlet or flashcards.
However, Rukus is different from others because it has no hidden fees and extra accessories to add on.
It is up to the user how long they want to practice. It is very important to see the
diagrams and repetition to learn new chords. It is beautiful how Brooke took the feeling of being incapable of playing guitar and turned it around to create this app, allowing her and other moms, or anyone to still exercise their brain even if they can not necessarily play. She advises it is okay to not be creative for a little while after giving birth.
Let your creative outlet flow and do not be hard on yourself, she said. It is astonishing and inspiring to see the resilience of a new mom not only giving birth to a healthy new baby but a fresh new app.
This app is for all ages, good for kids and adults. There is a QR code shown so people can download the app. Using the app you can play thousands of songs, making a playlist with many helpful tools. This month the app is ready to be used.
Brooke is also currently working on Rukus-Ukele, where she needs 12 android testers to get it to play store, if you are interested in testing it out.
Her goal was to design an app that was simple yet effective, finding the right balance between design and function.. Go support Brooke and download your next favorite free music app!
Visit Krampus Santa Cruz at Holiday Lights!
This holiday season, Sparky’s Holiday Lights returns to the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, along with a few special guests on select nights. The ¾ mile light display grows bigger and more beautiful every year. From the comfort and warmth of your car, you can enjoy holiday music from two local radio stations while you and your family take in millions of lights decorating tractors, buildings and grounds around the fairgrounds.
If you want an even more up close experience, for the first weekend of December, you can WALK the grounds and see the lights on foot. And on Thursday, Dec. 4, Krampus Santa Cruz will be on site for one evening only. Wait. Who’s this Krampus character? In Germanic folklore, Krampus is St. Nicholas’s mischievous counterpart. While St. Nick rewards good kids, Krampus keeps tabs on the naughty ones—bringing a little Halloween spirit to the holiday season.
Now a pop culture icon, Krampus stars in movies, parades, and “Krampus Crawls” around the world. His name comes from the German word Krampen (“claw”), he’s half goat and half demon, and he’s typically celebrated on Dec. 5—Krampusnacht. In Europe, it’s even
tradition to offer him Schnapps!
Here in Santa Cruz, The Fairgrounds Foundation and Sparky’s Holiday Lights are thrilled to welcome Krampus back for his second annual, kid-friendly visit on Dec 4. Last year’s debut was a huge hit with families, photos, and plenty of holiday cheer!
• 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
There’ll also be lots of vendors on site again, featuring makers selling Krampus crafts and other related merchandise, including candles, Krampus chocolates, sugar skull succulents, and jewelry. Get your Christmas shopping started early. Food and hot beverages will also be available for purchase.
Krampus Santa Cruz at Sparky’s Holiday Lights takes place on Thursday, Dec. 4 from 5:30 to 9pm. Tickets are available at aghistoryproject.org. Adults are $11.50. Children ages 6-11 are $6. Children under 5 are free.
FAMILY GUIDE
ENRICHMENT
Drawn 2 Art Studios
19C Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center, Aptos 831.661.5652
Aptos@Drawn2ArtStudios.com drawn2artclasses.com
Drawn2Art offers a “Free
Introductory Art Class,” ages 4 years- Teens/Adults. The trial Class is a nice introduction into the program and the student takes home a finished picture. The program is designed to the student’s level of ability, each student works independently at their own pace/artistic level. The techniques are based in a traditional/classical approach, using different mediums/ subject matter. Classes are available throughout the week and are broken up into different age groups. Seasonal Camps are offered throughout the school year. Call us at: (831) 661-5652 or email us: aptos@drawn2artstudios.com. Sign-Up Now and Join Us for educational fun!
International Academy of Dance IADance.com | NutcrackerSantaCruz.com info@IADance.com 831.466.0458
International Academy of Dance, home of Santa Cruz City Ballet, provides world class instruction in classical ballet, tap, contemporary, lyrical, and jazz. The studio is an encouraging and supportive community from ages two to eighty-two. It is our mission to inspire students of all ages to develop a lifelong love of dance. Through choreography, balance, agility, strength and flexibility, we work with each dancer to hone artistry, technique, focus and musicality. We aspire to bring joy and generate growth in every class. Come see us on stage at Nutcracker: Experience The Magic at Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater, Dec. 20 & 21!
Jim Booth Swim School
Watsonville indoor pool and coming soon to Toadal Fitness
831.722.3500
JimBoothSwimSchool.com
Be a water wonder! From our Little Otters 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 group lessons emphasize quality swimming in an exciting class taught by our caring, well-qualified teachers. Soon offering a non-competitive swim team to help develop strength, endurance and technique. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School!
Junebug’s Gym
3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz 831.464.2847
junebugsgym.com
Junebug’s Gym is a joyful place where children and families can experience movement in a safe and supportive environment to strengthen children’s motor and gymnastics skills.
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 research-backed 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 Gymnastics Center, Inc. 2750 B Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz 831.462.0655 scgym.com
At Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center our mission is to build a community of people who support each other’s growth, learning, safety and development through our love of gymnastics and fun. From preschool to competitive programs, kids learn skills such as rolls, handstands and cartwheels. We also focus on ageappropriate school readiness: waiting in line, sharing, taking turns and color/number/shape recognition. We believe every child can benefit from gymnastics physically, emotionally and cognitively. We offer something for everyone. Visit our website for more information and class registration.
City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department 323 Church Street, Santa Cruz 831.420.5270 cityofsantacruz.com
Give the gift that inspires joy, movement, and connection this holiday season! A Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation gift card is the perfect way to share memorable experiences with the people you care about. From swim passes and fitness classes to youth programs, arts, and special events, a gift card opens the door to fun for all ages. It’s flexible, easy to use, and supports community recreation. Celebrate the season by giving something meaningful—give the gift of recreation and spark a year full of activity, discovery, and smiles. Purchase your gift card today and brighten someone’s holiday with endless possibilities
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History 1305 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz 831.420-6115 camp@santacruzmuseum.org www.santacruzmuseum.org/camp
Discover the wonders of the natural world at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History’s seasonal day camps. Through hands-on exploration, outdoor adventures, and creative science activities, campers build curiosity, confidence, and a deeper connection to nature. This winter, students will investigate seasonal changes, learn about local wildlife, and uncover the science behind weather. In spring, young nature detectives will enjoy crafting, games, and guided discovery as they learn how the environment transforms with the seasons. Our camps nurture academic growth while inspiring stewardship and joy in the natural world.
Santa Cruz Shakespeare
501 Upper Park Rd, Santa Cruz 831-460-6399 info@santacruzshakespeare.org santacruzshakespeare.org
Featuring professional actors from around the country and inspired by deep local roots that go back more than 40 years, Santa Cruz Shakespeare stages bold productions of the plays of Shakespeare and other great playwrights that stimulate audiences’ senses and spark their imagination. Santa Cruz Shakespeare’s season includes performances in the summer and fall at The Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga. And an annual holiday show at the Veteran’s Hall in Downtown Santa Cruz. For more information about SCS, visit santacruzshakespeare.org, Facebook and Instagram.
Seven Directions is Santa Cruz’s premiere creative center for kids and teens. Offering classes and camps in art, science and more in a lively studio with over 30 live exotic animals, we are committed to nurturing students’ selfesteem, building lasting friendships and empowering them as artists, learners and creative thinkers.
Rooted In Connection tovah@tovahpetra.com 831.291.3865
Give the gift of connection this holiday season! Rooted In Connection helps neurodivergent children and their families thrive with trauma-informed, somatic, and brain–body based practices. In-home sessions support trust, emotional regulation, and resilience, helping families enjoy more ease, joy, and meaningful connection together.
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.
Dignity Health – Dominican Hospital 1555 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz 831.462.7700
DignityHealth.org/SantaCruz
Expert and compassionate care for you and your family. This Open Enrollment, choose access to Dignity Health. When comparing health plans, consider the advantages of a plan connected to Dignity Health, the largest physician network in Santa Cruz County, with more than 200 primary and specialty care providers in over 100 locations. Dominican Hospital offers nationally recognized programs in heart, cancer, obstetrics and other specialties. Learn more at DignityHealth.org/SantaCruz.
First 5 Santa Cruz County 831.465.2217
First5scc.org
First 5 Santa Cruz County promotes the healthy development of children from birth to age five. Parents and caregivers of newborns can receive a free “Kit for New Parents” with videos, books and local resources. First 5 also offers parenting support through the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, which strengthens families by building positive relationships. Find Triple P classes and tips at triplep.first5scc.org or facebook.com/triplepscc.
SCHOOLS
Gateway School, K-8th grade 255 Swift Street, Santa Cruz 831.423.0341
gatewaysc.org
Seven Directions Creative Learning Center 831.713.9392 sevendirections.org sevendirectionsinfo@gmail.com
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
Preschool–12th Grade
491 Summit Road, Mount Madonna 408.847.2717
MountMadonnaSchool.org
Mount Madonna School is a diverse, inspired and academically vibrant learning community. Students form meaningful relationships, value collaboration and engage with the wider world. The school offers a Montessori-influenced preschool and kindergarten, environmental education, performing and visual arts, life skills and strong academics. Transportation is available with stops throughout Santa Cruz County.
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, Leadership, Field Trips, Drama Productions, and more.
Santa Cruz City Schools
Sam Rolens samuelrolens@sccs.net 831.419.2927 sccs.net/enroll
Santa Cruz City Schools helps students find belonging, exploration and high expectations. Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten focus on play and curiosity. In elementary grades, learning happens in classrooms, gardens, kitchens, art studios and through enrichment programs. Middle school supports independence and emotional growth. High school offers more AP classes, athletics, arts, performance, leadership and community connections to help students launch into college or career.
Santa Cruz Montessori Ages 18 months–14 years
Main Campus: 6230 Soquel Drive, Aptos Winston Campus: 244 Cabrillo College Drive, Soquel 831.476.1646 scms.org
Established in 1964, Santa Cruz Montessori is a nonprofit school serving children 18 months to 14 years in beautiful indoor and outdoor environments. Programs meet the developmental needs of each age group and challenge students to do their best. The curriculum includes humanities, math, sciences and the arts. The mission: to inspire lifelong learning and a more peaceful world by nurturing the natural development of each child.
Santa Cruz Waldorf School, PreK–8 2190 Empire Grade, Santa Cruz 831.425.0519
santacruzwaldorf.org
Santa Cruz Waldorf School nurtures the whole human being—head, heart and hands. The curriculum integrates intellectual and artistic development, with specialty teachers providing language, movement, music, arts, games and gardening. The rural redwood campus is warm and joyful. The school supports each individual, respects nature and cultivates self-directed, empathetic and freethinking individuals prepared to serve an evolving world.
Nala Age 7, Bailey Age 8, Karma Age 7
Henley and Finley, Age 8
Elsa Age 8 and Jack Age 5
Aidan Age 7
Sophie Age 6
Tami Age 7
Grayson Age 4
Nash Age 6
Zoe Age 7
Ruby Age 5
Rory Age 5
Rosie Age 8
Sienna Age 6
Grace Age 8 Lia Age 8
Lucinda Age 6
McKenna Age 7
Ember Age 6
HIIT Your Holiday Goals in 20 Minutes WOMEN’S HEALTH
BY MONICA MENARD
Exercise has always been like medicine for me. It minimizes the dips in energy come late afternoon, adds endorphins for mental clarity and sharpness, and the increased blood flow soothes my aching body, all naturally.
With the holiday season’s arrival and joy and excitement layering into my life, it also becomes busy and hectic. Holiday parties and events are in full swing. The weather isn’t cooperating so much inviting me to venture outside or get to the gym. So it becomes more important than other times of the year to prioritize health with a packed schedule. This is where having a quick go-to plan is so helpful.
When schedules are tights, couple your fitness with something you do daily anyway like brush your teeth, check emails, nursing the baby, or picking up kids from school. These times of day and their routines remind you to also get moving. Block out that time in your smart phone for yourself. Dedicating just 20 minutes a day and five moves will be worth it, to relieve stress, burn extra calories around this time of year, gain strength, optimize productivity, and improve your mood.
Here’s how to H.I.I.T. your holiday plan. It’s called H.I.I.T. (High Intensity Interval Training) because intervals of intense bursts of efforts cycle with short rest periods so you get the maximum cardiovascular benefits and gain strength in a shorter routine.
No equipment needed and can be done at home for a full body burn. Modify this workout if you are pregnant or postpartum or are new to working out.
Avoid jumping or bouncing unless you have trained this way before and have no pain. Modify the push ups and mountain climbers by placing hands on a bench or couch to be in an inclined position.
To make it harder, only rest after completion of the 5 moves for 30 seconds, increase your speed, and try adding some weight to your squats.
THE MOVES:
Squat x20 reps
Mountain climbers x20 reps
Narrow push ups x20reps
Lateral lunges x20 reps
Wide push ups x20 reps
Repeat
How To: Set a timer for 20 minutes. Complete each move 20 times then go to the next. Rest when you need to.
If you liked this or want more support, during the holiday season I am offering discounts on training packages! We can start up in January when those New Years resolutions come knocking, if you prefer.
Best in health! Your Trainer, Monica
Monica Menard is a C.P.T Certified Personal Trainer and Prenatal & Postpartum Specialist. Contact her at monicapmenard@gmail.com for free fitness questions and follow me at training_bymonica on Instagram. Free consultations are available by mentioning this article
COLORING PAGE
We want to see your best coloring. Submit your 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.
THROUGH DEC 23
Reindeer Round-Up 10am-6pm free
Help Santa find his missing reindeer around downtown businesses with a festive scavenger hunt. Pick up a map at the info kiosk and start exploring shops and windows. Downtown Info Kiosk, Santa Cruz. downtownsantacruz.com
THROUGH DEC 24
Holiday Lights 5:30pm-9pm $11.50-$42 Drive through over a half-mile of dazzling displays, tunnels of lights, giant trees, Santa, and reindeer. Open weekends through Christmas Eve; proceeds support local programs. Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, Watsonville. fairgrounds-foundation.org
THROUGH DEC 31
Farley’s Christmas Wonderland
5:30pm-8pm free A beloved, walk-through neighborhood display with trees, garlands, elf and fairy villages, miniatures, and Santa’s cozy cabin. Charming, nostalgic fun for families throughout the season. Farley’s Christmas Wonderland, Santa Cruz. farleyschristmaswonderland.com
SUN 2
Inter|Act Spoken Word Open Mic
Featuring Santa Cruz Youth Poets Laureate 7-9pm Free. A free community spoken word night featuring members of the Santa Cruz County Youth Poet Laureate cohort sharing powerful, personal poems about identity, environment, and community. Come early to sign up for the open mic and stay to support local youth voices. Satori Arts, Santa Cruz. eventbrite. com/e/interact-spoken-word-open-micfeaturing-santa-cruz-youth-poets-laureatetickets-1962722735537
DEC 4-6
King Tides Times vary Free. California King Tides bring the most dramatic high and low tides of the year, with big waves crashing over seawalls and extra-wide stretches of tidepools and beach to explore at low tide. Check tide charts and head out safely to witness these extreme ocean conditions. Coastline locations throughout Santa Cruz County. coastal.ca.gov/ kingtides
DEC 5-6
Frost Fest 5-9pm & 12-5pm Free. Meet Santa Cruz artists and makers and shop a festive indoor holiday market filled with handmade jewelry, art, stained glass, crochet, and more in the MAH atrium. Enjoy First Friday vibes Friday night and daytime Frost Fest fun on Saturday with creative gift options from local vendors. Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, Santa Cruz. santacruzmah.org
FRI 5
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
UCSC Concert Choir 7:30-9:30pm
$5–$15. Hear the UCSC Concert Choir perform a powerful program of choral music spanning classical to contemporary works, featuring student vocalists in the beautiful acoustics of the Music Center Recital Hall. A great way to kick off the holiday concert season on campus. UCSC Music Center Recital Hall, Santa Cruz. arts. ucsc.edu/events/ucsc-concert-choir
First Friday Boulder Creek 5-8pm
Enjoy a free monthly mountain street fair in the name of creation and community. There will be local art, music and food lining the sidewalks of downtown Boulder Creek. firstfridaybouldercreek.org
SAT 6
Arboretum Tour 11am-12:30pm The first Saturday of each month, the Arboretum offers a docent or staff-led tour of the Arboretum. Sometimes you will see New Zealand, South Africa, California, or Australia. Sometimes you might see combinations of several gardens, the developing World Conifer Collection, or Rare Fruit Garden. arboretum.ucsc.edu/ index.html
UCSC Jazz Combos 7:30-9:30pm $5–$10. Enjoy an evening of small-group jazz as UCSC student combos play standards, originals, and improvisations in an intimate concert setting. Hear emerging jazz musicians stretch out in creative arrangements and solos perfect for music-loving families with older kids and teens. UCSC Music Center
Recital Hall, Santa Cruz. events.ucsc.edu/ event/ucsc-jazz-combos
SantaCon Santa Cruz 12:30-8pm Free admission; donations encouraged. Break out your Santa suits, elf hats, and holiday costumes for a playful, family-friendly daytime SantaCon gathering downtown. Expect roaming Santas, photo ops, music, and stops at local businesses while helping collect toys and donations for community causes. Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz. downtownsantacruz.com/events/santacon-sc
Holiday Craft Fair 10am-3pm Free. Browse a wide variety of handmade crafts, jewelry, art, and gift items created by local artisans, plus holiday treats and community fun for all ages. It’s a relaxed indoor shopping opportunity to support makers and pick up unique presents. Temple Beth El, Aptos.tbeaptos.org
Downtown Boulder Creek Winter Festival 1-6:30pm $5–$20. Celebrate the season in the San Lorenzo Valley with a community winter festival featuring artisan vendors, food court, holiday shopping, adult and non-alcoholic beverages, snow play, hay rides, crafts, and photos with Santa, culminating in a magical tree lighting. Downtown Boulder Creek, Boulder Creek. bouldercreekwinterfestival.com
SUN 7
Castro Adobe Open House 10:303:30pm Learn about the contributions of the Indigenous people as skilled laborers for the Castros on Rancho San Andre. santacruzstateparks.as.me/ CastroAdobeOpenHouse
Holiday Craft Fair & Tree Lighting 4-7pm Free. Stroll the village green, shop local craft vendors, listen to live music, and enjoy treats as the community gathers for a small-town tree lighting ceremony. Kids can meet Santa and families can soak up a warm, neighborhood holiday atmosphere. Aptos Village Green, Aptos. aptoschamber. com
Espressivo Benefit Concert 3-5pm Ticketed, cost varies. Chamber orchestra Espressivo presents an intimate benefit performance featuring rich classical repertoire, virtuosic playing, and conductor commentary that brings the music to life, all in support of future programs and concerts. It’s a special afternoon for serious music fans. Peace United Church, Santa Cruz.
Holiday Market 10am-5pm Free. Wander the studios and outdoor market at the Tannery to discover local artists, handmade gifts, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, prints, and more, along with music and food trucks. It’s a lively, artsy spot to find unique holiday presents. Tannery Arts Center, Santa Cruz. tanneryartscenter.org
MON 8
UCSC Jazz Big Band with Guest Artist Benny Green 7:30-9:30pm
$8–$20. Hear the UCSC Jazz Big Band joined by world-renowned pianist Benny Green for a swinging evening of classic and contemporary big band charts. Expect driving horns, dynamic rhythms, and featured solos in a concert that jazz lovers won’t want to miss. UCSC Music Center Recital Hall, Santa Cruz. events.ucsc.edu/ event/bigband-benny-green/
TUES 9
Gateway Tour 9-11am Visit the school on one of the monthly Tuesday tours and see why Gateway was voted Best Elementary and Best Middle School in Santa Cruz. Hang with our kindergarteners on Kindy Island, see what’s growing in the Life Lab outdoor classroom, join the middle schoolers for a science experiment, and see first hand the unique benefits of a K - 8 education. gatewaysc.org
SAT 13
Second Saturday on the Farm 11am-3pm
The Agricultural History Project’s 2nd Saturday events are like taking a step back in time. Grab your cowboy hat and put on your boots and come and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon on the farm! You’ll be able to milk a “cow”, drivea-tractor, and enjoy crafts, hayrides, puppet show, antique engines and museum exhibits. aghistoryproject.org/2nd-saturday-on-the-farm
Swing Dancing 2-5:30pm You will find music, friends, and food while you improve your dancing digs. All levels, and various styles plus a social dance with great ambiance are welcome! Go Join the fun on the Second Saturday evening of each month at the Santa Cruz Wharf stage. cityofsantacruz.com/
Holiday Craft Fair 10am-4pm Free. Shop tables of handmade crafts, ornaments, jewelry, baked goods, and holiday décor created
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. Submit entries at growingupsc.com/events/ community/add. 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 including a paid event, email advertising@growingupsc.com.
by local crafters. Kids can enjoy simple activities while adults browse for stocking stuffers and one-of-a-kind gifts in a friendly indoor space. Local Community Center, Santa Cruz. santacruzparksandrec.com
Holy Cross & Cabrillo College: Concert for a Winter’s Eve 7-9pm Ticketed, cost varies. Choruses and instrumentalists from Cabrillo College and Holy Cross Church join forces for a warm, reflective concert of seasonal music. Expect a mix of classical, sacred, and contemporary selections in a beautiful church setting perfect for winding down the busy holiday season. Holy Cross Church, Santa Cruz. cabrillovapa.universitytickets.com
DEC 13-14
Santa Cruz Symphony Holiday Concert 7:30-9:30pm Saturday and 1-3pm Sunday $15–$130. The Santa Cruz Symphony’s Holiday Pops brings together festive favorites, selections from “The Nutcracker,” Symph-Hanukkah, and sing-along tunes in a joyfully decorated hall. Families can enjoy photos with Santa and the North Pole crew as part of this sparkling seasonal tradition. Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, Santa Cruz. santacruztickets.com
SUN 14
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.
Artisan Faire noon-4pm Head to Abbott Square every second Sunday of the month for free live music while you browse handmade jewelry, soap, clothing, and much more! There is always something at these events that has your name on it! abbottsquaremarket.com/events
Breakfast with Santa 9-11am Ticketed, cost varies. Share a hot breakfast with Santa and friends at this Watsonville holiday event that includes a hearty meal, photo opportunities, and festive decorations. It’s a fun way for South County families to kick off their holiday weekend with plenty of cheer. Watsonville Masonic Center, Watsonville.
TUES 18
Movie With Santa 4:30-7:30pm $18. Enjoy an evening of holiday pajamas, cookie decorating, storytime with Santa, and a screening of the movie “Elf” in the historic Grove Ballroom. Each guest receives a fun holiday headband, with snacks and festive seating options available. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz. beachboardwalk.com
Community Briefs
FREEDOM ROTARY PROUDLY PRESENTS: THE MYSTERY GIFT FUNDRAISER
Mystery Gifts are pre-wrapped presents where the contents are a surprise! If you love Mystery Boxes, or need White Elephant party gifts, then we’ve got what you need! Every sale goes right back into your community - we’re at the Holiday Craft Fair on the Fairgrounds on December 5-6.
HOPE’S CLOSET LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS
Do you love giving back to the community? Do you want to make a real difference? Volunteering at Hope’s Closet is a deeply rewarding experience, and they welcome new volunteers to join them.
Hope’s Closet supports underserved families who are struggling to make ends meet. For each child, the organization provides a “Bundle of Hope” containing a week’s worth of clothing, socks, underwear, and shoes. Each bundle also includes a toy, a plush animal, books, an art kit, and a backpack.
Hope’s Closet encourages both English and Spanish speakers to apply. They rely on volunteers who can communicate with clients, fold and sort clothing, organize books, assemble art kits, clean and repair toys, and help create bundles. If this sounds like you, they invite you to contact them today. hopesclosetsc.org/volunteer/volunteer-application
DEC 19-21
Toy Trains 12-6pm Free. The beloved Toy Trains takeover returns to the MAH atrium with elaborate model railroad layouts, tiny villages, and trains looping through snowy scenes. Families can drop in to watch, explore the museum, and soak in classic holiday magic downtown all weekend long. Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, Santa Cruz. santacruzmah.org/events/toy-trains
SAT 20
Winter Family Day 12-6pm Free. Enjoy free museum admission, the Toy Trains display, a winter-themed art activity, and complimentary hot cocoa while supplies last. Families can explore exhibitions together, make art in the garden room, and warm up with hands-on creativity in the heart of downtown. Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, Santa Cruz. santacruzmah.org
Mission Hill: Christmas with the Santa Cruz Chorale 8-9:30pm $6.54–$55.92. The Santa Cruz Chorale and orchestra present a radiant Christmas program featuring Sweelinck, Michael Haydn, Morten Lauridsen, Arvo Pärt, Kirke Mechem, and carols from around the world in a resonant historic church setting. It’s a rich, reverent holiday concert for choral music lovers. Holy Cross Church, Santa Cruz. santacruzchorale.org
DEC 20-21
The Nutcracker 1 & 4:30pm $55–$65. Santa Cruz City Ballet at International Academy of Dance brings Clara’s magical journey to life with a full-length Nutcracker featuring local dancers, lush costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s classic score in a professional theater. Performances both afternoons make this a centerpiece holiday outing. Cabrillo Crocker Theater, Aptos. nutcrackersantacruz.com
The Nutcracker (Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium) Times vary Ticketed, cost varies. Santa Cruz Dance Theater presents a sparkling Nutcracker at the Civic with multiple performances, transporting audiences from the party scene to the Land of Sweets with intricate choreography, snow scenes, and crowd-pleasing character dances. A grand, traditional holiday ballet downtown. Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, Santa Cruz. santacruzdancetheater.org/ nutcracker-at-the-civic
SUN 21
Downtown Makers Market 10am-5pm Visit the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market featuring 40+ local makers & artists every third Sunday of the month on the 1100 block of Pacific Ave. between Cathcart and Lincoln streets. scmmakersmarket.com
Your Presence is the Best Present
The other day, my daughter came into my office while I was finishing up some homework and quietly asked if she could sit next to me. As she cuddled up beside me, I suddenly realized how busy that month had been — long work hours, heavy school assignments, and very little downtime. After a few minutes, she looked at me and asked, “Mamma, why do you always work?”
Like many parents, I’d been trying to keep up with everything and hadn’t noticed how stretched thin I’d become. Instead of feeling guilty, I took it as a reminder to pause and
the house. He thinks I buy their love with presents and they take advantage of me. I just want my kids to know I love them and I feel guilty because I work long hours. When I’m home, I don’t want them to see me as “the enforcer.” We’ve been arguing about this a lot lately. Can you help us?
- Rosa Dear Rosa,
It’s hard when partners disagree about parenting issues. And it’s common for children to think their parents exist solely to provide them unlimited food, clothing,
to show your children you care. These simple strategies strengthen relationships and build the foundation for kind, respectful communication.
Agree on realistic expectations. Talk with your husband about what is reasonable to expect of your children. If you have widely different opinions, aim for common ground. Define a few basic rules you can both support that will set the expectation of respectful communication, such as “Say please and thank you,” or “Ask before taking things.”
Then discuss what each child can do to help out around the house (taking their ages and abilities into consideration). For instance, your 8- and 12-year-olds might be capable of vacuuming and dusting their own rooms, while putting toys away might be a more ageappropriate expectation for your 4-year-old.
Talk with your kids about the family rules and expectations. Once you’ve reached agreement with your husband, sit down with your kids to discuss the family rules and expectations. This provides an important opportunity for your kids to see you and your husband working as a team. Tell your kids you love them and they are important members of the family – which is why there are new family rules about being kind, considerate and helpful.
Be consistent and give descriptive praise.
This is especially important in the beginning, when the rules and expectations are new. Your children might “test” you to see how far they can push the limits before you give in. Remember you can be both firm and loving when setting limits, and that teaching children to do things for themselves increases their confidence and self-esteem. Give descriptive praise when you notice them being kind, considerate and helpful, like “Thank you for setting the table. I appreciate your help.” This lets them know you notice their efforts and encourages them to keep it up. Final thoughts: Children often behave in ways that seem difficult or “spoiled.” Many times, they’re just expressing their need for love, attention or affection. Parents can meet their children’s emotional needs while teaching valuable life skills by being a consistent, firm and loving presence in their children’s daily lives. It’s the gift that lasts a lifetime.
Yesenia Gomez-Carrillo is the mother of a 3-yearold daughter and the Triple P Program Manager
Today’s Children Are Today’s Leaders POSITIVE
BY STEVEN WEISS AND SARAH NOFI
Children are intelligent and capable and are so deserving of love, safety, compassion, respect, and dignity. They have big hearts, brilliant minds, creative ideas, and amazing capabilities.
With the facts at their fingertips and access to global communication, they possess a great deal of power to bring about positive change. Just imagine that at the age of 15, renowned climate/social change activist Greta Thunberg merely watched a video, and what she saw inspired her to take action.
All that said, life is still very challenging for children. Mental health issues have resulted from the pandemic, education no longer guarantees good jobs, media-based technology distracts and disconnects us, drugs are more prevalent, harmful, and accessible than ever, our governmental system of checks and balances is ineffectual, and violence pervades many areas of our lives. Couple all that with systemic oppression, and not surprisingly, many young people are experiencing a sense of hopelessness, powerlessness, disenfranchisement, and discouragement.
Our country has never realized its stated goal of “liberty and justice for all” because it has never eliminated power disparities, privilege, and oppression. Racism, sexism, classism, adultism, ableism, ageism, and colonialism continue to plague our society in myriad ways, hindering our ability to effect positive social change.
Adultism is particularly pernicious as young people remain undervalued, underestimated, and, oftentimes, under the full control of the adults around them. Further, we’ve been conditioned to see children as immature, impulsive, impressionable, and ineffective.
That’s a bit ironic because we do acknowledge their academic achievements and help with chores, and when we speak of their purpose, we do envision them becoming happy and successful adults. What we also do sometimes, though, is unwittingly place greater emphasis on who children will become than on who they already are, thus disregarding their untapped, present-day leadership potential.
Positive Discipline, an approach to parenting, teaching, and leadership, not only emphasizes mutual respect, responsibility, and problem-solving, it empowers children to be today’s leaders and changemakers.
EQUALITY AND RESPECT FOR ALL INDIVIDUAL
Positive Discipline rejects punishment and the fact that punishment is exacted disproportionately on marginalized social groups. Instead, it encourages treating every individual—especially children—with respect and dignity.
Doing so promotes a social environment in which all people are valued. Further, Positive Discipline emphasizes children’s voices and perspectives as it helps adults learn to model both respectful behavior and democratic leadership, all of which promotes social justice.
ENCOURAGING EMPATHY AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
Fostering emotional literacy and empathy, Positive Discipline helps children understand and manage their emotions in healthy ways. Emotional intelligence is key to the creation of a compassionate and inclusive culture. Conflict resolution and cooperation are essential elements of a just society.
CHALLENGING POWER IMBALANCES
Traditional discipline often reinforces a hierarchical, authoritarian structure with adults holding absolute power over children. Positive Discipline promotes an authoritative model for adults to practice which allows parents to enlist children’s help in identifying solutions and thus challenges traditional power dynamics as it teaches children the importance of fairness, democracy, and equality.
Moreover, it aims to empower children to make responsible choices and shows children how to take responsibility for their actions, think critically, and solve problems. That, in turn, helps break cycles of oppression and inequality.
ADDRESSING ROOT CAUSES OF MISBEHAVIOR
Instead of recommending punishment to address misbehavior, Positive Discipline focuses on discovering the beliefs behind the behavior.
This could include unmet needs such as attention, connection, or support, particularly for children from marginalized communities who may face systemic challenges.
By addressing these underlying needs,
Positive Discipline works to ensure that all children have access to the resources they need to thrive. Further, Positive Discipline encourages teachers and parents to be culturally aware and sensitive to the unique experiences of each child.
By recognizing and addressing issues related to race, socioeconomic status, and other social factors, it seeks to create an environment where all children can succeed, regardless of their background.
PROMOTING SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND INCLUSION
Positive Discipline teaches children to be responsible for themselves and their communities. By promoting cooperative learning and shared responsibility, children learn the importance of inclusion, equity, collaboration, and cooperation, thus encouraging children to be advocates for social justice.
Positive Discipline also helps challenge stereotypes that can be perpetuated through traditional discipline methods, especially given children from marginalized communities are disproportionately disciplined. We all deserve to be treated and valued as individuals.
BUILDING A JUST AND COMPASSIONATE SOCIETY
Teaching children responsibility and problem-solving, Positive Discipline fosters fairness, equality, and compassion—key principles of social justice. Children who are taught to advocate for themselves and others and resist injustice feel encouraged to make positive contributions and can be active participants in making their communities more inclusive and just.
CREATING EQUITABLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERYONE
Positive Discipline encourages adults to support all children in achieving their full potential, regardless of their background. For children in historically marginalized and/or underrepresented communities, this can help level the playing field by giving them the tools they need to navigate a world that has yet to treat them fairly.
CONCLUSION
Positive Discipline promotes social justice by creating environments that value and respect every individual, recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence, and working to address systemic issues that contribute to inequality.
Teaching children empathy, cooperation, and inclusion while encouraging their participation and nurturing their capabilities helps us parents/children work together to dismantle oppressive systems and thus co-create a better world.
Steven Weiss and Sarah Nofi are certified positive discipline parent educators.
Young Reader Discovers a Powerful Story From Ukraine
BY COCO KETTMANN
We had a Book Fair at my school, Live Oak Elementary in Santa Cruz, last September and I was looking for a book to buy. I saw one called Kidnapped From Ukraine, Under Attack. That looked interesting for me, since I like stories about kidnapping and murder. That was right before my birthday, so my dad bought it for me as a birthday present and as soon as I finished my other book I was reading, I started reading the “Kidnapped” book.
I loved the book. It’s my favorite book I’ve read so far. Some people rush through books, but I wanted to understand it, so I tried not to read it too fast. The book tells the story of Dariia, a girl living in Mariupul, Ukraine, when it was attacked by the Russians in February 2022.
Dariia got separated from her dad and twin sister and her mom and her kept finding shelters in basements. Then one of their shelters got bombed. Then they found a car and drove it, but the Russians saw them and took them to a camp. They had to stay there until they got a new family.
Dariia got a new Russian mom and brother and sister and the new family also had a baby. This family had a lot of stolen things around their apartment, and Dariia got one of the phones and texted her real family. Her mom came and rescued her and brought her home to Ukraine and Dariia got to meet up with her twin sister again.
I liked the book so much, I sent some questions to the author, Marsha Forchuk Skyrypuch, in an email, and she answered them. I found out the book I read was the first of a trilogy of three books.
COCO KETTMANN: Will we find out in the second book if Dariia gets her dad back?
MARSHA FORSHUK SKYRPUCH: Her Dad’s situation becomes clear in book #3, Still Alive. In book #2 Standoff, Rada and Dad get to the Azovstal Steel Plant which is bombed by the Russians for 86 days straight.
CK: Is “Dariia” a Ukrainian name? I had never heard it.
MFS: Yes, it’s a popular Ukrainian girl’s name. It means a person who embodies goodness.
CK: Did you worry that some kids reading the book might get scared and have bad dreams? I did not, not at all. I loved the book, but did not find it scary.
MFS: I’m glad to know that you didn’t find the book scary and didn’t have bad dreams. I realize that there are some kids and adults who would find Under Attack too scary to read, but the war is still happening and people in Ukraine
are living through this day to day and have been for several years. A reader who finds it scary can set the book down, and I would encourage them to talk to their parents about the parts that frighten them. I think it’s better to know about these things rather than hide from the truth, and it’s better to air it out than to keep it in. I know a lot of kids and parents who are reading the book together.
CK: One of the most dramatic parts of the book was the start of Chapter Sixteen, Out of Mind, on page 175 to 176, like where you write, “I surfaced and almost managed to gulp in air.” How did you get the idea for this part?
MFS: The inspiration for that scene is the reality of how captured Ukrainian kids are treated. Some kids have been rescued and they have shocking stories about what happened to them. A swimming pool, which is normally a fun place, is being used to torture. The scariest part of that for Dariia is that she now realizes anything in the facility can be used to hurt her, even if it looks totally normal. This is a method of brainwashing a person: keeping them in line for fear of punishment.
CK: Why do you write about this stuff?
MFS: I write about it because I can. I have a deep sense of empathy and responsibility to be the voice of people who are suffering but can’t tell their own story. There are a lot of people who have totally forgotten that the war in Ukraine is still raging on and that every day, Russia targets schools, hospitals, playgrounds and apartment buildings with missiles. By writing about this in novel form, readers can plunge themselves inside a regular person who was leading a normal life until suddenly, the country beside them attacks. There is a larger significance too: if the world lets Russia get away with waging war on its neighbor just because it’s bigger and stronger, other countries might get
the idea to do the same thing.
CK: How did you become a writer?
MFS: I didn’t like to read when I was a kid. I am dyslexic, and so it was hard for me at the beginning. I failed 4th grade, and my teacher deemed me unteachable. I decided to teach myself how to read by taking Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens out of the library, and slowly, relentlessly over the course of a year, taught myself how to read.
Doing that changed my life because that book was such a good story, about a kid that everyone wrote off. I could see the story like a movie in my head. I read other big books like that and was immersed in all these big stories that played like movies in my head. I decided that I wanted to write books and put movies into peoples’ heads. In 8th grade I wrote a 64 page book, but it wasn’t very good. I LOVED writing it though. I did a degree in English lit in college and a master of Library Science to find out as much as I could about books. I did freelance writing for newspapers and magazines for a while, and then started writing books.
CK: What were your favorite books you read as a kid? Or favorite authors?
MFS: I kind of skipped over the whole kids’ book thing as a kid because of my learning problems. But the books I write are the books I wished were available to me when I was a kid. I rediscovered kids’ books in library school and fell in love with LM Montgomery, Jean Little, Robert Munsch -- these are Canadian authors. I also liked Madeleine L’Engle and Ursula LeGuin. I love Suzanne Collins and Philip Pullman now.
CK: What are you working on now?
My first book was published twentynine years ago, and it’s still in print: Silver Threads, a picture book illustrated by Michael Martchenko. It wasn’t the first book I submitted to publishers. The first was a big fat novel that got 100 rejections. I tore it apart and over the years rewrote it into 6 different books that all got published. It takes a lot of writing, rewriting, re-re-writing, to write a book! I’ve written something like twenty-eight books in all. Check them out here: calla. com/wordpress/books.
MFS: A big fat Medieval trilogy, likely for adults, about a real girl who gets captured as a slave and ends up being an empress. Thanks for the great questions!
Holiday Rhythms That Keep Us Connected MENTAL HEALTH
BY TOVAH PETRA KOLODINSKI
December often feels full of shifts and changes. Growing up with parents in separate homes, I learned early how different households can have their own rhythms, expectations, and ways of celebrating. For a child, moving between these spaces isn’t just confusing - it can feel heavy and unsettling.
As a parent now, I notice how children experience transitions even more vividly. Their bodies often signal overwhelm before they have words to express it. They might become clingy, retreat quietly, or have sudden meltdowns - and that’s their nervous system asking for support. Even minor changes - a later bedtime, a new routine, or a different holiday plan - can feel like a big adjustment for a child.
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that presence matters more than perfection. Children are watching, feeling, and absorbing the energy around them. When adults slow down, notice shifts, and prioritize connection, children can begin to feel grounded, safe, and understood - even amidst the busyness of December.
Steady anchors can make all the difference. Here are some ways I approach transitions with children and the families I work with:
CONNECTION FIRST
Before trying to redirect behavior, move on to the next activity, or fix a problem, I check in. I notice their energy, tone, and behavior. Naming what they might be feeling is simple but powerful: “That was a lot of change today. Your body might feel tired or off-balance.” These moments of connection signal to the nervous system that it’s safe to slow down. When children feel seen first, everything else - routines, transitions, expectations - becomes easier to navigate.
PREDICTABLE ROUTINES
Children thrive on predictable rhythms. Between homes or activities, keeping familiar routines consistent can help anchor them. When my children were very young, I sometimes questioned the need to maintain these rhythms, worried it might feel too rigid.
Over the years, I’ve learned that even something as simple as a familiar breakfast ritual can be a secret superpower - a small anchor that builds deeper connection and trust and helps children feel safe when they are gently led and supported. Familiar breakfast routines, bedtime stories, or short checkins during transitions provide stability and help children navigate the inevitable shifts of December - and sometimes they’re the only thing keeping the morning coffee warm.
SENSORY PAUSES
The holiday season comes with extra noise, lights, and activity. For children,
these changes can feel overwhelming. Short sensory breaks - a quiet cuddle, a walk outside, or a few minutes of deep breathing - give their nervous systems space to reset. Even noticing that a child needs a moment to stretch, shake, or move can prevent overwhelm from building into a full meltdown. These pauses are acts of respect for the child’s body - and, honestly, for your sanity too.
December also brings cultural and family expectations. One household may celebrate with certain traditions, another with different rhythms. Children pick up on all of it - from tone of voice to subtle shifts in energy. That’s why anchoring them with connection, routine, and sensory breaks is so important. They don’t need perfection or constant entertainment; they need steadiness and attunement.
Being attuned doesn’t just help children; it helps parents, too. Noticing our own nervous system allows us to model calm, regulated behavior. Stepping outside for a few minutes to breathe or quietly observing a child can help both parent and child settle. Presence is contagious, and children feel it immediately.
As a parent in the Santa Cruz area, I notice that even in a slower, smalltown environment, December has its own rhythm: twinkling holiday lights along local streets, school parties, and neighborhood gatherings. Even here, transitions between homes, events, and expectations are felt strongly by children. Recognizing and supporting those transitions is an act of care, not indulgence.
This December, I’m remembering that the most meaningful gift we can give children isn’t more lights, parties, or toys. It’s attunement, steady presence, and practices that help their nervous systems feel safe and regulated, even amidst change. Connection first. Routines second. Sensory pauses third. These anchors give children a place to return to, no matter where they are, what’s happening around them, or how busy the season gets.
Staying rooted in connection means allowing ourselves to feel, to pause, and to return to our neutral state again and again. In the noise and activity of the season, these small moments of regulation are acts of deep love - quiet reminders that we deserve the same care and attunement we so readily offer to others.
Tovah Petra, MA, is a trauma-informed somatic practitioner and creator of the Whole Family, Whole Child approach. She helps parents of neurodivergent children create emotionally safe, attuned, and connected homes—while nurturing their own nervous systems, relationships, and intimate connection. Learn more at: www.tovahpetra.com
ALL ABOUT ANIMALS
The Heartwarming Story of Kevin the Clinic Dog
BY KAY MACKENZIE
In August, a white miniature poodle with a ruptured eye was found as a stray by a good Samaritan and brought to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter.
This poor doggie arrived disoriented and in pain, quite traumatized. The shelter’s clinic team sprang into action and surgically removed his right eye, which was damaged beyond recovery. He was dubbed Kevin by the staff and was housed in the clinic while he healed.
Despite his rough start, Kevin quickly settled in and became quite the social butterfly, receiving the honorary title of Clinic Dog.
He assisted staff with data entry, therapeutic snuggles, belly rub opportunities, and even checking in on other patients, felines and canines alike. He personally greeted every person and every animal that came into the clinic.
He did not care for being kenneled, and since he was of such a calm and pacific nature, he was allowed free range within the clinic as much as work flow allowed. In between his duties as official greeter he took restorative naps on his orange blanket with his emotional support monkey.
I’m a volunteer in the SCCAS clinic,
so I had the joy of becoming acquainted with this special pup. When I took him out on leash for a potty break, he would quickly do his business, then turn right
around and head indoors to get back to his haven, lying down on the recovery mat and sticking his legs in the air so that his halter could be removed. It was apparent that the clinic was his safe space, where he felt a sense of belonging and could feel the reassurance of being around other animals and people.
Once Kevin had recovered from his eye operation, he was accepted for transfer to the fabulous Center For Animal Protection & Education (CAPE), a rescue organization that among its missions specializes in older and special-needs dogs.
It was reassuring to everyone at SCCAS that CAPE was taking him into their hands. After a couple of weeks in foster with CAPE, Kevin was listed online and an application was received immediately from someone who turned out to be the perfect fit. And so this gentle lamb of a pooch has found his soft, permanent place to land.
Kevin is just one of an untold numbers
PET OF THE MONTH
Miss Kitty
of stories where animals come into shelters and are so much better off than they were in their previous situation.
Hard-luck animals who just need another chance are cared for, fed, warmly housed, given medical attention if needed, and loved by staff and volunteers.
In the shelter, every effort is made to find each animal’s best outcome. Many hands were involved in giving Kevin the life he deserved, and many hearts were made happy to hear of his success story.
Thank you, Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter, CAPE, and all the other animal welfare groups that go the extra mile for animals.
Kay Mackenzie is a longtime SCCAS volunteer and dog person, despite a constant stream of foster kittens.
scanimalshelter.org capeanimals.org
Meet Miss Kitty, a gentle senior cat with a long history of being social and easygoing. In her previous home, she spent most of her time outdoors and slept safely in a screened patio at night, always using her litterbox reliably. She has lived comfortably with a small dog and interacted well with children of all ages. Miss Kitty enjoys being picked up, cuddling in laps, and even having “spa days” with professional grooming for her long hair. Because she’s older and less agile now, we recommend she live primarily indoors, with any outdoor time limited to safe options like a catio. Help us find her the perfect home! Visit our website at scanimalshelter.org for more information.
Downtown for the Holidays
Where Belonging Begins. (And Shopping Happens Too!)
Holiday magic is coming to Downtown Santa Cruz. Downtown is a place where everyone is welcome, regardless of income, age, background, or whether you’re a big gift giver for the holidays or coming to get a hot chocolate and spend time in your community.
You are invited to come Downtown for free, family-friendly, accessible, joyful experiences for all residents!
Downtown Santa Cruz is not only where to get the best local gifts; it is a place to come together and share what you love. That matters even more during the holidays!
HOLIDAY EVENTS ARE PART OF DOWNTOWN’S COMMUNITY CARE.
Downtown Santa Cruz holiday experiences are free to enjoy because this season can be financially stressful for families. We believe there should always be space, especially here, where experiencing the holiday magic does not require a big wallet. Free Downtown Santa Cruz holiday programs you can enjoy this year include:
Downtown Holiday Parade
Downtown’s official kickoff to the season, attracting thousands of people each year, as floats roll by representing local schools, youth organizations, and community groups. It is purely Santa Cruz. People line the sidewalks, smile, wave, cheer, and see their community reflected in front of them.
North Pole Mailbox
Drop your letters to Santa at his North Pole Mailbox on the corner of Walnut Ave. and Pacific Ave. in front of Super Silver.
Visits with Santa
Santa will be at Childish Toy Store on Pacific Ave. every weekend in December. Kids can take photos with Santa and tell him their wishes.
Reindeer Round-Up
From November 28 until December 23, families can enjoy a scavenger hunt in Downtown. Search for hidden reindeer at participating businesses, complete their reindeer maps, and enter to win prizes.
Free Family Movie Matinees
On December 13 and 14, the Del Mar Theater opens its doors for free family movie screenings. Parents don’t have to decide between paying for movie tickets and other priorities. Everyone can show up and enjoy free cinema for the holidays on the big screen!
Family Trivia
New this year and sponsored by Abbott Square, Holiday Family Trivia is a festive, family-friendly hosted trivia event. Families and multigenerational groups form teams and compete against each other. Questions span holiday movies, music, winter themes, and world traditions
Hanukkah Craft Afternoon
Join us for a relaxed and fun-filled Chanukah craft event on December 14! This free event offers a variety of easy and enjoyable crafts including painting your own dreidel and making Chanukah cards. Like all the other free events, it’s open to all ages.
BELONG IN YOUR COMMUNITY
DOWNTOWN THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!
We love the holiday season Downtown, as it is absolutely essential for the dozens of small brick and mortar retailers that are owned and operated by Santa Cruz families in our district. Coming Downtown to shop local in December genuinely matters.
Let Downtown’s holiday program remind you to visit your neighbor’s stores and be part of making Santa Cruz vibrant and unique. Shop Downtown because supporting local businesses keeps Downtown thriving and alive. Even when you’re not shopping, come down to eat and play! Bring your kids, your grandparents, your neighbors, new friends, the whole crew—and feel connected to where you live.
Downtown’s holiday programs are ready for you to build your memories here. Learn more at downtownsantacruz.
FASHION FORWARD
Is It the Most Wonderful Time of the Year?
BY MALIA FORT
Happy holidays and seasonal greetings! Winter time is here, it is never quite noticeable living in a homeostasis environment like Santa Cruz. But we are here for the season! Wintertime isn’t just a change in the seasons but a change in our clothing as well. This time of year can be very stressful, with a lot of negative associations with overconsumption and tension within ourselves. In this issue, we are going to discuss topics of how to guide your way through the holidays without over-consuming, and reflecting on how far you’ve come, not how far you need to be.
Morgen
Great outfits and clothing pieces can be borrowed or reused. This is Morgen, she is wearing a black and white striped dickies hat from the dickies outlets, a shirt, and a brown and blue tie from Goodwill. The heavy brown leather jacket is her grandfather’s, the black denim pants are her roommate’s ex, and the square-toed shoes are an Amazon dupe. I love this outfit, not only is it extremely warm, but it is sleek and feels confident. She kept great coordination as well as creativity by adding a pop of color subtly from her tie and hat. Morgen suggests when it is cold out and you want to balance style, layer! Choose a good button-down or colored shirt with a vest or sweater added under a leather jacket. With a scarf if you want that extra winter look. If you are lacking something in your closet, steal something from your family or friends (respectfully). Morgen’s personal style has fluctuated through the years. She says she started the year off exhausted over fashion after being into the maximalist look, starting the year off uninterested in fashion, but is now dipping her toes back in the water, experimenting on a smaller scale. This year fashion taught her a lot, she knows now that fashion doesn’t have to be performative, but a reflection of yourself. She used to put pressure on herself, expecting her look to be her identity, but she has now realized that fashion is an accessory to her personality and not the other way around. If you get bored with your closet, experiment with layering, adding accessories, and manipulating different pieces, like pinning or cutting. Eco-friendly fashion is glamorous, thrifting has become mainstream, and there are gems out there. Creativity helps, Morgen says, with creativity, there are endless possibilities. Morgen understands how tempting fast fashion can be to others and credits the majority for trying their hardest to be sustainable.
Olivia Lou
Reflecting on our personal fashion evolution. This is Olivia Lou. Her whole outfit is thrifted. Lou enjoys shopping second-hand, getting rewarded with unique pieces. She is wearing a short-sleeve black cardigan with ruffles, a blue sheer dress, layered with a black fitted skirt and burgundy floral tights, tied together with boots Lou got from Steve Madden. Her accessories are thrifted as well. I enjoyed this outfit, the vibrant pops of color is a beautifully unique take on an averagely gloomy season, making two different colors flow together seamlessly. When the weather is chilly, Lou chooses a pashmina as a personal staple of hers. Lou loves layering, specifically a button-up long sleeve under a baggy sweater, paired with a large brown fur coat on top for that put-together winter look, sometimes even wearing leggings under jeans if it is really chilly, with Carhartt boots. Over the years, Lou consistently has had the same style; however, she does enjoy switching up the patterns she wears and lately has been into wearing flats, most importantly prioritizing comfort over style. The only trend she hopes doesn’t follow us into 2026 is AI-designed fashion. Fashion has taught Lou that she is constantly evolving and growing into herself, as her clothes do as well. A fashion item Lou would love to give this year is a vintage Carhartt jacket. A pro tip for making an outfit feel new without shopping is layering. Lou loves to layer new pieces on top of a staple piece. Specifically layering lingerie over a tee and a lace skirt over jeans. And get creative. Eco-friendly fashion can feel marvelous. You just have to put the work into finding pieces that work for you and looking out for the high-quality brands that last.. Lou acknowledges people care about both aesthetics and sustainability. People are trying to be conscious of consumption as well as trying to look good while doing it.
Clayton
Creating looks that last. Lastly, say hello to Clayton. He is wearing a classy 1950s-style outfit. Wearing a vintage, worn heirloom from his mother, a black tank top Clayton drafted and sewed, paired with delightful vintage dress trousers, a genuine leather belt made by Clayton himself, tied together with beautiful custom engineer-styled boots from an atelier shop handmade in San Francisco. This outfit stood out to me because Clayton looks very classy, managing to make simple pieces look and feel like so much more. At the beginning of the year, Clayton was into the classic streetwear, but as the year went on, Clayton began loving the 1940s-50s silhouette. Pushing Clayton to learn that the fit of a garment can change an entire outfit, even when you are trying to simulate a certain era of clothing. A piece of advice Clayton would give to balance style during the winter is to wear a lined pair of jeans with a nice leather jacket, adding a beanie or scarf for a solid accent. A winter piece that makes Clayton to feel more composed is a Pendleton cable knit sweater, bonus points if it has a roll neck, and topped with a vintage A2 bomber jacket. As you can tell, Clayton is very innovative and creative; if he doesn’t have something, he will make it, and most definitely make it better than the original. Clayton feels eco-friendly fashion is alluring, choosing to use eco-friendly fabric, or finding a nice pair of trousers, and altering them, is an easier way than sewing from scratch. Cheaper to reuse clothing than to buy fabric, good for the environment, and you get a unique piece of clothing that is custom fit to you! Clayton understands people care more about aesthetics than sustainability. It is easy and convenient, but he says it is so gratifying to know that a garment is sewn by yourself. If you feel you need a refresh on your everyday outfit, altering it is key! Nothing looks better than an article of clothing that looks made for you, hugging and creating your dream silhouette. If you do not want to do that, then switch out your more common pieces. If you usually wear trousers and a button-up, switch the button-up for a tank top instead. There are more than enough resources out there for you to upgrade your fashion or give as a gift, as well as maintain a healthy outlet that supports our earth.
From baby bump, to baby in your arms.
From the time you find out you’re expecting, you dream of the first moment holding your baby. And Dominican Hospital’s Family Birth Center is here to help make that first “hello” as special as your new bundle of joy. We have a team of experts ready to guide you throughout your journey—from specially trained OB/GYN doctors and nurses, to midwives and board-certified lactation specialists. And our Level III NICU offers the highest level of maternity care in the Monterey Bay area should your baby need specialized support. Take a virtual tour of our Family Birth Center at DignityHealth.org/DominicanBirthCenter.
