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HOW HEALTHY ARE YOUR CHILD’S EYES?
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August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 5 Mailing Address: 875-A Island Dr, Ste 421 Alameda, CA 94502 www.ParentsPress.com www.parentspress.com CONTENTS AUGUST 2023 Publisher | Parenting Media, Inc. Art Director | Debbi Murzyn Account Managers Carol Flores, Sophie Archer Advertising Sales & General Info sales@parentspress.com Copies of Parents’ Press are distributed to locations throughout the Bay Area. Send letters to the editor to editor@parentspress.com Calendar submissions are due six weeks prior to publication date. Send calendar information to calendar@parentspress.com Parents’ Press is published monthly. ©2023 Parents’ Press 6 Family F.Y.I. • Be an Angel • Vaping is Not Healthy • When to Bring Your Child to the ER 10 How Healthy Are Your Child’s Eyes? 32 7 Ways to Start the School Year Right 34 Teenagers Are Like Cats WINNER BEST OF 2023 2023 1000+ Picks of the Top Places to Learn, Eat, Play & More 12 8 10 32 34 Volume 42 • Number 12
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LUCKY LEFTIES
Celebrate your favorite lefty this month! Left-Hander’s Day is designated annually for August 13. Did you know that girls are more likely to be left-handed than boys by about 4 percent? And mothers who are over 40 at the time of their baby’s birth are 128 percent more likely to have a child who is left-handed. That’s quite a leg up considering only 10 to 12 percent of people on earth are considered lefties.
August is full of offbeat holidays that put the emphasis on kindness (National Friendship Day on August 6 and Just Because Day on the 27th), but we’re particularly digging BE AN ANGEL DAY, which is celebrated on August 22. What a simple, sweet and fun way to remind your children about the importance of doing something nice for others, like looking out for a younger sibling or lending a helping hand.
6 Parents Press | August 2023 Good to Know
Join class from home! Save a spot for your family in one of our award-winning music cases for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, big kids—and the grownups who love them®! Online classes in the Greater East Bay offered by East Bay Music Together and Music Together 916 Valley. Register today. Eas tBayMusic Together.com (510) 848-SING Teacher,firstresponderorhealthcareworker? Emailinfo@eastbaymusictogether.comfora THANKYOUcoupon. &In-person Outdoor Classes Join us for class and enroll toay! Music Classes for newborn thru 8 years – with the grownups who love them® GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE East Bay Music Together E a s tB ay Mu si Alameda and Cont WINNER BEST OF Parents Press 2023 2023 EastBayMusicTogether.com (510) 848-SING Alameda and Contra Costa Counties AlamedaPediatricDentistry.com BACK to SCHOOL CHECKLIST Backpack Crayons Dental Check-up Call now to schedule! (510) 521-5437 On-Call for Emergencies: Save the phone number now to save time when it counts! Serving families in the Bay Area since 1971!
Vaping Is Not a Healthy Alternative to Smoking
10 SIGNS You Should Bring Your Child to the Emergency Department
Witnessing a child in a state of physical or mental distress can be confusing and stressful for parents and caretakers. Understanding and educating oneself of the signs and symptoms of serious illness or injury are key in equipping any parent to make the best decision for their children in an emergency. This is especially key when a serious incident has occurred, and the child needs to travel to an emergency room. Incidents that would warrant an ER visit include:
• profuse bleeding that does not stop after 15 seconds of pressure;
• open or gaping wounds with edges that don’t touch;
• head traumas;
• falls from a significant height; or
• vomiting/diarrhea, especically if blood is present. Some indications of mental injury or illness include:
• if the child is acting confused, disoriented, unusually sleepy, or has difficulty walking; or
• any weakness, dizziness, vision changes, fainting, sunken/bulging fontanel, or loss of consciousness. During respiratory season, usually coinciding with flu season, there are higher instances of viral respiratory infections, including COVID, flu, and RSV.
The mist from all “vapes” contain some particles of nicotine and metals, which inhaled through the mouthpiece, go down the throat and into the lungs.
When it comes to use of substances, it is important that parents stay up to date with reliable sources and share this information with their children. Many kids get their information from friends and social media sites, which can be unreliable and a negative influence. Vaping in particular has become popular among youth and young adults. Vaping is the use of a handheld electronic device to breathe a mist, or “vapor”, into the lungs. It is similar to smoking, but instead of smoke, it heats tiny particles out of a liquid in the device to create an aerosol. However, contrary to what many believe this is not a water vapor. The mist from all “vapes” contain some particles of nicotine and metals, which inhaled through the mouthpiece, go down the throat and into the lungs. While thought by many to be “better” or “safer” than smoking, vaping has related health issues, with long-term damage still unknown given how new it is. The particles inhaled can cause swelling and irritation to the lungs, leading to scarring and narrowing. Other potential consequences include, asthma, organ damage to the heart and brain, and addiction.
Any symptoms such as:
• shortness of breath;
• difficulty breathing; or
• strenuous use of chest muscles. Y
8 Parents Press | August 2023 Good to Know
Victoria DaSilva Boston Children’s Hospital Injury Prevention Intern
August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 9 Renie Ikeda, DDS, MS • Straty Righellis, DDS Drs. Ikeda and Righellis take pride in our detailoriented diagnostic process that carefully evaluates each patient’s facial balance, bite function, airway, jaw growth, and jaw joint health. Orthodontics should be more than just about straightening your teeth. 510-482-0600 • HillsideViewOrtho.com 2220 Mountain Blvd • Ste 204 • Oakland, CA 94611 Orthodontics for Children & Adults WINNER 2022 They’ve got a great dentist. • cosmetic and general dentistry • teeth whitening with Zoom! • aesthetic restoration • character teeth for stage and film • dental implants Real Patients, Real Smiles RICHARD TABOR, DDS 510.865.2900 • www.AlamedaDentist.com 1821 Santa Clara Avenue • Alameda BEST OF 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2012 MAGAZINE Thank you Alameda for voting us the best dentist! Single Visit Crowns Montessori Elementary Intermediate School of Alameda – MEISA 1st through 8th grade MEISA creates change-makers Award-Winning Montessori Elementary/Middle School WINNER BEST OF Parents Press 2023 2023 510.521.0595 1400 6th Street • Alameda office@thechildunique.org www.thechildunique.org At MESA, Montessori is mind-changing education WINNER BEST OF Parents Press 2023 2023
How Healthy Are Your Child’s Eyes?
By Cheryl Maguire
“You need glasses,” the Ophthalmologist said to me. I was twelve years old. My mom was shocked since I never complained of unclear vision and no one else in our family had poor eyesight. The reason I went to the doctor is that I failed the school eye screening exam. My vision became gradually worse so I didn’t realize it wasn’t normal.
I remember when I first wore glasses thinking to myself, “Everything seems so clear and crisp. I can see the tips of leaves on a tree and easily read street signs.” I thought it was normal to see the world a little bit blurry.
August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month. This issue is important to me since my vision has significantly declined from the time of my initial diagnosis over thirty years ago. Even though I am nearsighted (which means I can only see close up and need glasses for far away), without my glasses or contact lens, I wouldn’t be able to read anything on a computer screen word document (it’s just a white blur with black lines) since my vision is so poor. I asked my eye doctor if I am considered legally blind. It turns out I’m not since my vision can still be corrected with glasses.
According to the CDC, 6.8% of children younger than 18 years in the United States have a diagnosed eye and vision condition. They also state that Amblyopia, or lazy eye is the most common cause of vision loss in children which can be treated if caught early between the ages of 3 to 5 years old. The website Prevent Blindness found the most common vision disorders in children are myopia (nearsightedness trouble seeing far away), hyperopia (farsightedness trouble seeing close up), and astigmatism (blurry vision at all distances).
The Urban Child Institute states that correcting poor vision can foster a child’s cognitive and social development. The American Optometric Association estimates 80% of a child’s learning happens through observation. In the classroom, most of the teaching is done by displaying the information. Children learn social skills from seeing facial expressions and body language.
10 Parents Press | August 2023
AUGUST IS CHILDREN’S EYE HEALTH AND SAFETY MONTH
Similar to my experience, children may be unaware of the fact their vision is not normal. This may lead to feeling frustrated about being unable to see the words in a book or on the board in the classroom causing a child to act out. The American Optometric Association states, “Some children with learning difficulties exhibit specific behaviors of hyperactivity and distractibility. These children are often labeled as having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, undetected and untreated vision problems can elicit some of the very same signs and symptoms commonly attributed to ADHD. Due to these similarities, some children may be mislabeled as having ADHD when, in fact, they have an undetected vision problem.”
Pediatric Optometry lists the following as signs that may indicate your child could have a vision problem:
...undetected and untreated vision problems can elicit some of the very same signs and symptoms commonly attributed to ADHD.
HEAD TILT
If your child has a problem with their ocular muscles or nerves they will attempt to compensate by tilting their head.
SITTING TOO CLOSE TO THE T.V.
If your child is nearsighted, they will attempt to compensate for this by moving closer to the T.V or other reading materials.
AVOIDANCE OF READING
If your child has poor visual skills and eye teaming skills they will compensate for this by avoiding reading. Reading uses many complex eye movements and poor visual skills may cause your child to become frustrated easily.
FREQUENT HEADACHES
Your child may have headaches because he/she is overstrained using all of their energy to align, focus, and use their eyes.
LATERALITY PROBLEM
If your child has poor directional skills and often confuses left and right it could be due to poor vision. Proper oculocentric location is dependent on vision and laterality depends, in part, upon oculocentric location.
FINGER POINTING
If your child has poor vision tracking skills they may use their finger to compensate for their poor tracking ability.
CAN’T COPY FROM THE BOARD
Your child may have difficulty with accommodation, the ability to change focus between far and near. This is essential for success in school.
SQUINTING
Your child may squint because this narrows a bundle of light entering the eye which allows for sharper vision. Your child may be squinting because this act compensates for blurry vision.
POOR HAND/EYE COORDINATION
This skill is required for everything from writing notes in class to playing ball with friends. Clear vision and adequate visual skills are required to create an accurate link between vision and other body movements.
EYE RUBBING / SQUINTING RUBBING
This is a basic response to ocular discomfort. It typically occurs when one’s eyes are strained or have been working much too hard to complete a task. Squinting is used to narrow a bundle of light entering the eye which allows for sharper vision. Your child may be squinting because this act compensates for blurry vision.
If your child is experiencing one of these symptoms then schedule an eye exam with an eye doctor. There are two different types of eye doctors who are called ophthalmologists
If your child is experiencing one of these symptoms then schedule an eye exam with an eye doctor.
and optometrists An ophthalmologist went to medical school and a 1 year internship followed by a 3 year residency. These types of doctors can provide total eye care services. An optometrist did not attend medical school. Instead, these types of doctors went to a 4-year professional program and received a doctor of optometry degree. Optometrists mostly prescribe glasses and contact lenses. Due to my poor vision and the fact I have had other vision issues, I go to an ophthalmologist every two years for a checkup and to receive updated prescriptions for my glasses and contacts.
Even though my mother didn’t think I would need glasses when I was twelve years old, she took me to see the eye doctor. I’m grateful she did. Y
Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications.
August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 11
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August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 13 Helping your child excel in a warm and nurturing environment We provide a Year Round Program Infant and toddler care for ages 12-24 months Preschool for ages 2-5 years Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Extended Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Full-day program: 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. 510-652-7021 admin@rockridgemontessori.org www.RockridgeMontessori.org Close to Rockridge Bart 5633 Manila ave – Oakland 94618 Lic. 01213520,013417669 & 013417787 Virtual tours on website Enrolling Now: An Established Montessori School Ages 2.5-6 • Immediate start • Year round or school year enrollment available Our core ideals •compassion and kindness •supporting creativity •building community •passion for learning •peace Centrally located near Cal and BART Part/full/extended day available • Limited financial aid available 2008 McGee Ave • Berkeley • 510.679.5056 • www.littleelephant.net Enrolling now: www.littleelephant.net 2008 McGee Ave • Berkeley • 510.679.5056 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023
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14 Parents Press | August 2023 Preschool • Pre-K • Jr.-K • Toddlers • Kindergarten • School Age www. tcdschools.com Dynamic Education Optimizing Each Child’s Potential Now Enrolling Summer & Fall 2023 • Math & Science • Problem Solving • Art & Creativity • Social Skills Low Ratios Highly Trained Teachers SAN RAMON 925-820-2515 Lic# 073406846 073406845, 073406634 PLEASANTON 925-462-1866 Lic# 013420524 013420525 LAFAYETTE 925-284-7092 Lic# 073406632 073406633 MORAGA 925-376-5110 Lic# 073406850 073406849 TOP 5 BEST OF 2023 2023 Parents Press FAMILY OPERATED SINCE 1976 Online enrollment inquiry form available on website BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023
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August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 15 1629 Carlson Blvd., Richmond Annex 94804 Admissions - 510-526-7847 ext.2 If you could give your child one gift to last a lifetime, what would it be? Lic. #070209834 • Ages 2-6 Years • Stimulating Nurturing Environment • Preparation for Kindergarten Now Enrolling for Fall/Winter 2023-2024! • Two Expansive Campuses • Potty Training • Full-Time and Part-Time Schedules Available WINNER BEST OF Parents Press 2023 2023 www.nomurapreschool.com BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023
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16 Parents Press | August 2023 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023 M O N TES S O R I SCH O O L Rich Montessori Curriculum Spanish & Mandarin • Art, www.montessori-training.com American Montessori MONTESSORI At Five Nestled in the Summer Session 18 months Before 510.581.3729 • 22781 TOP 5 BEST OF 2023 2023 Parents Press Montessori at Five Canyons 22781 Canyon Ct. Castro Valley www.montessoricastrovalley.com 510.581.3729 Toddlers (18 mo.) - Preschool - TK Kindergarten - Summer Program - Extended Daycare AMS Accredited Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him into the world. - Maria Montessori
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• City of El Cerrito Recreation Department
• i heart art
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BALLET CLASSES
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• Alameda Ballet Academy
• Berkeley Ballet Theater
• Berkeley City Ballet
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WINNER
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
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• Broadway Rhythm Dance Company
• Contra Costa Ballet Centre
• Diablo Ballet School
• East Bay CenterPerforming Arts
• The Ballet School Performing Arts
WINNER
• Broadway Rhythm Dance Company
CLASSES FOR MUSICAL INSTRUMENT INSTRUCTION
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Crowden Music Center
• East Bay Music Together
• Musically Minded Academy
• Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir
• School of Rock
August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 17
18 Parents Press | August 2023
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August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 19 We Pursue LEADERSHIP at shcp.edu/visit
WINNER
• East Bay Music Together
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• East Bay Center for Performing Arts
• Lamorinda Music
• School of Rock
• The Ballet School
Performing Arts
• Village Music School
WINNER
• Village Music School
COMPUTER SCIENCE & CODING CLASSES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkeley Coding Academy
• codeAtorium
• ID Tech
• Integem
• theCoderSchool Berkeley
WINNER
• theCoderSchool Berkeley
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• CodingKids
• Diablo Valley College
• Hackington Code School
• Salesian College Preparatory
• theCoderSchool
WINNER
• Diablo Valley College
DANCE CLASSES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alameda Ballet Academy
• Berkeley Ballet Theater
• Berkeley City Ballet
• Destiny Art Center
• Kids N’ Dance
WINNER
• Kids N’ Dance
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Broadway Rhythm Dance Company
• Clayton Valley Dance Academy
• Funkmode Hip Hop Dance Studio
• Studio A
• The Ballet School Performing Arts
WINNER • Studio A
EARLY CHILDHOOD FAMILY MUSIC CLASS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• East Bay Community Music Project
• East Bay Music Together
• Jon’s School of Music
• Katherine Park Center of the Arts
• Kindermusik
WINNER
• East Bay Music Together
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Creative Play Center Tot Time
• East Bay Center for the Performing Arts
• East Bay Music Together
• One Heart Music
• Poison Apple Productions
WINNER
• East Bay Music Together
ENRICHMENT & AFTER-SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alameda Recreation and Park Department
• Bay Aerials Gymnastics
• Classroom Matters
• Junior Center of Art and Science
• Kids N’ Dance
WINNER
• Classroom Matters
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Broadway Rhythm Dance Company
• City of El Cerrito Recreation Department
• Concord Kung Fu Academy
• East Bay Center for Performing Arts
• Holbrook Language Academy CARES Expanded Learning Program
WINNER
• Holbrook Language Academy CARES
Expanded Learning Program
FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alliance française de Berkeley
• Bay Language Academy
• East Bay German International School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Viva el Español
WINNER
• East Bay German International School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Happy Panda Kids
• Holbrook Language Academy CARES
Expanded Learning Program
• Salesian College Preparatory
• Tagalog Kids+
• Viva el Espanol
WINNER
• Holbrook Language Academy CARES
Expanded Learning Program
GYMNASTICS CLASSES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bay Aerials Gymnastics
• Bay Island Gymnastics
• Golden Bear Gymnastics
• Head Over Heels Athletic Arts
• Kids N’ Dance
WINNER
• Bay Aerials Gymnastics
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Black Diamond Kids Center
• City of El Cerrito Recreation Department
• EncoreGym
• Liberty Gymnastic Training Center
• My Gym
WINNER (TIE)
• City of El Cerrito Recreation Departmen
• EncoreGym t
MARTIAL ARTS CLASSES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Aiki Arts Center
• Aikido Shusekai
• Cuong Nhu Hoa Sen Dojo
• Emeryville Martial Arts
• Kuk Sool Won
WINNER
• Emeryville Martial Arts
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• City of El Cerrito
Recreation Department
• Concord Kung Fu Academy
• Element ATA Martial Arts
• Hanabi Judo
• Mires Martial Arts
WINNER
• City of El Cerrito
Recreation Department
20 Parents Press | August 2023 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023
MATH PROGRAMS –AFTER SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• AoPS Academy
• Berkeley Math Club
• Education Enrichment Center
• FireCracker Math
• Kumon Math and Reading Center of Oakland
WINNER
• AoPS Academy
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Fusion Academy
• Huntington Learning Center
• Kumon
• Mathnasium
• Metas - Contra Costa College
WINNER
• Metas - Contra Costa College
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alameda Education Foundation
• codeAtorium
• Coding Kids
• Kids Elite Club
• MADE Museum
WINNER
• codeAtorium
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Boys & Girls Club
• City of El Cerrito Recreation Department
• Engineering for Kids
• Kids Coding Classes by Teens
• Vision Tech
WINNER
• City of El Cerrito Recreation Department
SPORTS CLASSES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Albany Berkeley Soccer Club
• Athletic Playground
• Bay Aerials Gymnastics
• Bladium
• Next Level Softball and Baseball Academy
WINNER
• Bay Aerials Gymnastics
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Ants Sports
• City of El Cerrito Recreation Department
• Pleasant Hill Baseball Association Sports Complex
• Sky Hawk Sports
• Walnut Creek Recreation
WINNER
• City of El Cerrito Recreation Department
Preschool Program (ages 18 months to 5 years old)
August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 21 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023 Montessori Children’s Center 80 Juan Bautista Circle | San Francisco | 415.333.4410 montessorichildrenscenter.org Full and half-day programs available Before and after school care Open 7am - 6pm An Authentic Montessori Preschool and Kindergarten Serving children ages 2 - 6 Lic #384001313 A ministry of Bay Area Chinese Bible Church 1803 North Loop Rd. Alameda, CA 94502 Facility # 013422027
# 510-995-5383 ext. 1336 Fax # 510-373-2241 kim.smith@bacbc.org A ministry of Bay Area Chinese Bible Church Monday - Friday 7am - 6pm lunch service provided 1803 North Loop Rd | Alameda | Facility # 013422027 510-995-5383 ext. 1336 | kim.smith@bacbc.org TTPreschoolalameda.org
Telephone
a Year Round Academic Montessori Program
Offering
Kindergarten Program
program:
a.m.-2:30 p.m.
p.m.) Full-day program: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. 510-430-1322 admin@oakgrovelearning.com www.OakGroveLearning.com Hwy 580 • Keller Ave exit 8115 Fontaine Street • Oakland 94605 License 013423093 Virtual and in-person tour available!
Part-day
8:45
(or 4:00
SWIM CLASSES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• American Swim Academy
• AquaTech Swim SchoolAlameda
• British Swim School
• Happy Fish Swim School
• King Pool
WINNER
• American Swim Academy
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• American Swim Academy
• AquaTech Swim SchoolConcord
• Canyon Swim School
• El Cerrito Swim Center
• Irvin Deutscher Family
YMCA
WINNER
• El Cerrito Swim Center
THEATER & PERFORMING ARTS CLASSES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkeley Playhouse
• Berkeley Rep School of Theatre
• Dance 10 Performing Arts Center
• Kairos Youth Choir
• Kids N’ Dance
WINNER
• Berkeley Playhouse
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• City of El Cerrito Recreation Department
• Contra Costa Civic Theatre
• Poison Apple Productions
• SingOut Musical Theatre Company
• The Ballet School Performing Arts
WINNER
• Poison Apple Productions
TUTORING OR EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAMS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Classroom Matters
• Education Enrichment Center
• Kaplan
• Kuman
• Learning Bee Learning Center
WINNER
• Classroom Matters
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Cal Prep Academy
• Huntington Learning Center
• Kumon Math and Reading Center
• Lafayette Academy
• Viva el Espanol
WINNER
• Lafayette Academy
FOOD & DINING
BEST PLACE FOR PIZZA
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Benchmark Pizzeria
• Bronco Billy’s Pizza Palace
• Dimond Slice Pizza
• The Cheeseboard Pizza
• Zachary’s Chicago Pizza
WINNER
• Zachary’s Chicago Pizza
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Gioia Pizzeria: Berkeley
• Little Star Pizza
• MOD Pizza
• Pizza My Heart
• Zachary’s Chicago Pizza
WINNER
• Zachary’s Chicago Pizza
FAMILY FRIENDLY COFFEE SHOP
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bette’s Oceanview Diner
• Cafenated Coffee Company
• Devout Coffee
• Hal’s Office Coffee
• Wescafe
WINNER
• Bette’s Oceanview Diner
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Barrelista Coffee House
• Catahoula Coffee Co
• East Bay Coffee Co.
• Rooted Coffee Co
• Sugar Plum Coffee Shop
WINNER
• Rooted Coffee Co
ICE CREAM PARLOR
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Fentons Creamery
• iScream
• Lush Gelato
• Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery
• Tucker’s Ice Cream
22 Parents Press | August 2023 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023
L ET L In Person Classes Begin August 21 More info: AlamedaBallet.com | admin@alamedaballet.com Berkeley City Ballet
2 and up Boys ballet Dance camps Birthday parties State-of-the-art studios Sprung floors Easy parking Easy online registration and payment photo: andy mogg
BA
berkeleycityballet.org Ages
WINNER BEST OF Parents Press 2023 2023
WINNER
• Fentons Creamery
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• As You Wish Frozen Yogurt - Albany, CA
• iScream
• MYO Frozen Yogurt
• O’Brien’s Ice Cream
• San Francisco Creamery
WINNER
• iScream
PLACE FOR DINNER WITH THE FAMILY
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Artichoke Basille’s Pizza
• Cactus Taqueria
• Crepevine Restaurants
• Da Lian Restaurant
• Picante
WINNER
• Picante
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• El Aguila Méxican Cuisine
• FatApple’s El Cerrito Restaurant and Bakery
• Huong Tra Restaurant
• Local Kitchens
• Skipolini’s Pizza
WINNER
• FatApple’s Restaurant
PLACE TO BUY A BIRTHDAY CAKE / CUPCAKES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Crispian Bakery
• Cupcakin Bake Shop
• James & the Giant Cupcake
• La Farine
• Love at First Bite Bakery
WINNER
• Cupcakin Bake Shop
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• A Sweet Affair Bakery
• Alpine Bakery, Willow Pass Road, Concord
• Danville Bakery
• Maria’s Gourmet Pastries
• P.S. I Cake You
WINNER
• A Sweet Affair Bakery
FUN & ATTRACTIONS
AMUSEMENT PARK
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Children’s Fairyland
• Lost Worlds Adventures
• Redwood Valley Railway (Tilden Steam Train)
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
• Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
WINNER
• Children’s Fairyland
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Adventure Playground
• California’s Great America
• Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
• Pixieland Amusement Park
• Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Concord
WINNER
• Pixieland Amusement Park
ATHLETIC CLUBS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• American Swim Academy
• Berkeley Ironworks
• Bladium
• City Sports
• Downtown Berkeley YMCA
WINNER
• Bladium
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Club Sport
• Lakeridge Athletic Club
• Martinez Athletic Club
• Renaissance ClubSport Walnut Creek Fitness
• YMCA Irvin Deucher
WINNER
• Club Sport
August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 23 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023 2727 College Avenue www.maybeckhs.org (510) 841-8489 Be curious. Be inspired. Be yourself. Berkeley’s Only Independent College Preparatory High School TOP 5 BEST OF 2023 2023 Parents Press Since 1972 For event information, contact admissions@maybeckhs.org
BIRTHDAY PARTY RESOURCES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• American Game Trailer
• Bay Aerials Gymnastics
• Clapp Events
• Impossibubble
• Pump It Up Oakland
WINNER
• Pump It Up Oakland
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• ARF - Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation
• Color Bundles
• I heart art studio
• Little Explorers Petting Zoo
• Tutu School
WINNER
• I heart art studio
BIRTHDAY PARTY VENUES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bay Aerials Gymnastics
• Brushstrokes Studio Inc
• Children’s Fairyland
• Oakland Zoo
• Pump It Up Oakland
WINNER
• Oakland Zoo
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Arlington Park & Clubhouse
• City of El Cerrito Recreation Department
• Lindsey Wildlife Experience
• Q-ZAR LASER TAG
• Rockin Jump
CONTRACOSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Lindsey Wildlife Experience
INDOOR PLAY PLACE
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bay Aerials Gymnastics
• Junior Center of Art and Science
• Lawrence Hall of Science
• Pump It Up
• Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park Dublin
WINNER
• Lawrence Hall of Science
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Diablo Rock Gym
• Luv 2 Play
• My Gym
• Rockin Jump
• Studio Grow
WINNER
• Rockin Jump
LIVE THEATER
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bay Area Children’s Theatre
• Berkeley Playhouse
• Children’s Fairyland
• Kids ‘N Dance ‘N theater Arts
• Oakland Children’s Musical Theater
WINNER
• Berkeley Playhouse
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Contra Costa Theatre
• Diablo Theatre Company
• I Can Do That!
Performing Arts Center
• Lesher Center for the Arts
• Poison Apple Productions
WINNER
• Lesher Center for the Arts
LOCAL FARM
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Ardenwood Historic Farm
• Harley Farms Goat Dairy
• Sienna Ranch
• Swansons
• Tilden Little Farm
WINNER
• Tilden Little Farm
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Balestrieri Family Farm
• Clayton Valley Pumpkin Farm & Christmas Trees
• Sienna Ranch
• Smith Family Farm
• Tilden Little Farm
WINNER
• Tilden Little Farm
MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• California Academy of Sciences
• Chabot Space & Science Center
• Exploratorium
• Lawrence Hall of Science
• Oakland Zoo
WINNER
• California Academy of Sciences
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• California Academy of Sciences
• Lawrence Hall of Science
• Lindsay Wildlife Experience
• Oakland Zoo
• Rosie the Riveter Museum
WINNER
• California Academy of Sciences
October: 11, 25 • November: 16 • December: 6 • January (2024): 6
24 Parents Press | August 2023 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023
ZOO OR AQUARIUM
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Aquarium of the Bay
• California Academy Of Science
• Lindsey Wildlife Experience
• Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Oakland Zoo
WINNER
• Oakland Zoo
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• California Academy of Sciences
• Lindsay Wildlife Museum
• Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Oakland Zoo
• San Francisco Zoo
WINNER
• Oakland Zoo
RETAIL & SERVICES
BABY/CHILDREN GIFTS & GEAR
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• 5 Little Monkeys
• Bird and Bean
• Golden Bug
• Lauren’s Closet
• Toy Safari
WINNER
• 5 Little Monkeys
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• 5 Little Monkeys
• Dianz Boutique
• Learning Express
• Sweetie Face
• Whimsy Kidz
WINNER
• 5 Little Monkeys
BOOK STORES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Books Inc.
• Half Price Books
• Mr. Mopps Children’s Books
• Mrs Dalloway’s
• Pegasus Books
WINNER
• Mr. Mopps Children’s Books
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bel and Bunna’s Books
• Flashlight Books
• Friend’s Corner Bookstore
• Half Price Books
• Orinda Books
WINNER
• Orinda Books
CONSIGNMENT STORES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bambino Thirft Shop
• Grove Street Kids
• Lauren’s Closet
• Once Upon A Child
Newark
• Silver Moon Kids
WINNER
• Lauren’s Closet
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Growing Pains
• Kelly’s Corner
• Really Cool Kids
Consignment Sale
• Trendy Boutique
Consignments
• Youth Homes Thirft Store
WINNER
• Growing Pains
FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHERS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Amelia Plumb
Photography
• Breslow Imaging
• Hi+hello photography
• Joy Coakley
• Nightingale Photography
WINNER
• Joy Coakley
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bespoke Photography
• Gretchen Adams
Photography
• Hazy Lane studios
• Michael Fox Photography
• Yuri Pettengill
Photography
WINNER
• Yuri Pettengill
Photography
FAMILY SHOE STORES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• EastBay.com
• GoldenBug
• Grove Street Kids
• Lauren’s Closet
• Shoe Palace
WINNER
• GoldenBug
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Footwear etc.
• Growing Pains
• Really Cool Kids
Consignment Sale
• Shoes on Solano
• Sports Basement
WINNER
• Sports Basement
KIDS HAIRCUTS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• 77 Salon Inc
• Family Hair Care
• La Petite Hair Salon
• Snippety Crickets
• Snips Children’s Hair Salon
WINNER
• Snippety Crickets
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Cool Tops Cuts For Kids
• Frank’s Barbershop
• Kristine’s Kuts
• Pony Tails
• Sharkeys Cuts for Kids
WINNER
• Cool Tops Cuts For Kids
KIDS’ CASUAL WEAR
STORES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bird and Bean
• Chloe’s Closet
• GoldenBug
• Lauren’s Closet
• Valentine’s
WINNER
• GoldenBug
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Big Kiss Little Kiss
• Milk + Lily
• The Modest Baby
• Whimsy Kidz
• Wish
WINNER
• Milk + Lily
NANNY SERVICES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• A Nanny Connection
• Bay Super Nannies
• Nannies Plus
• The Nannies Inc.
• Trusted Nanny Match
WINNER
• A Nanny Connection
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• A Nanny Connection
• Bay Super Nannies
• Nannies Plus
• The Nannies Inc.
• Trusted Nanny Match
WINNER
• A Nanny Connection
TOY STORES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Five Little Monkeys
• Mr Mopps’ Toy Shop
• Sweet Dreams
• Toy Go Round
• Toy Safari
WINNER
• Mr Mopps’ Toy Shop
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Five Little Monkeys
• Games Unlimited
• Learning Express
• Pot of Gold
• Toyslogic
WINNER
• Five Little Monkeys
HEALTH & WELLNESS
BIRTH CENTERS AND MATERNITY CARE
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alameda Health Systems
• Alta Bates Summit Medical Center
• Kaiser Permanente
• Pacifica Family Maternity Center, Berkeley
• Sutter Health
WINNER
• Alta Bates Summit Medical Center
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Contra Costa Health
• John Muir Health
• Kaiser Permanente
• Stanford HealthValleyCare
• Sutter Delta Medical
WINNER
• Kaiser Permanente
FAMILY DENTISTS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alameda Pediatric Dentistry
• Aloha Pediatric Dentistry
• Berkeley Children’s Dentistry
• Hillside View
Orthodontics by Ikeda + Righellis
• Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry
WINNER
• Alameda Pediatric Dentistry
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Aloha Pediatric Dentistry
• Children’s Dentistry - Nicholas Ching, D.D.S.,Inc.
• Danville Pediatric Dentistry
• Hercules Kids Dentistry
• Pediatric Dentistry San Ramon
WINNER
• Aloha Pediatric Dentistry
HOSPITAL/MEDICAL CENTER
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alta Bates Summit Medical Center | Summit Campus
26 Parents Press | August 2023 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023
• John Muir Health/ UCSF Health Berkeley Outpatient Center
• Kaiser Permanente
• Stanford Health Care in Emeryville
• UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital - Oakland
WINNER
• UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital - Oakland
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• John Muir Health, Walnut Creek Medical Center
• Kaiser Permanente
• San Ramon Regional Medical Center
• Stanford HealthValleyCare
• Sutter Delta Medical
WINNER
• Kaiser Permanente
OPTOMETRIST
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkeley Optometry, UC Berkeley
• Eye Care Optometry
• Harlan J. Wong, OD
• Lunettes du Monde
• Ursula Moonsamy, OD
WINNER
• Berkeley Optometry, UC Berkeley
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alamo Optometry
• Cushing & Gan Optometry
• Eye Love Optometry
• Walnut Creek Eye Care
• West Coast Optometry
WINNER
• Eye Love Optometry
ORTHODONTISTS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alameda Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
• Aubrey Barrett Orthodontics
• Berkeley Orthodontics
• Castro Valley Orthodontics
• Hillside View Orthodontics by Ikeda + Righellis
WINNER
• Alameda Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Axelrode Orthodontics
• Dr. Josh McCormick, DDS
• Estes Orthodontics
• Majeroni Orthodontics
• McElroy Orthodontics: Scott McElroy, DDS
WINNER
• Axelrode Orthodontics
PEDIATRICIAN
ALAMEDA COUNTY
• TOP 5
• Bayside Medical Group
• Berkeley Pediatrics
• East Bay Pediatrics
• Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center
• Tri-Valley Pediatrics, Inc.
WINNER
• Berkeley Pediatrics
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Dr. James L. Crook, MD
• Dr. Rona Bar-Din, MD
• Tri-Valley Pediatrics
• Walnut Creek Pediatrics
• Whyte Lynne M MD
WINNER
• Walnut Creek Pediatrics
SPORTS MEDICINE PRACTICE
TOP 5
• Golden State Orthopaedics
• Sports & Orthopedic Specialists
• Stanford Children’s Orthopedics
• UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital - Oakland
• Webster Orthopedics
WINNER
• Stanford Children’s Orthopedics
EARLY EDUCATION
BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• East Bay German International School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Escuela Bilingue Internacional
• KSS Immersion Preschool
• Shu Ren International
WINNER
• Shu Ren International
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• El Cerrito Preschool
• Golestan School
• La Casita Bilingue
• KSS Immersion Preschool
• Nomura Preschool
WINNER
• Nomura Preschool
CHILD CARE FACILITIES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkeley Rose Waldorf School
• East Bay German International School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Montessori School at Five Canyons
• The Child Unique Montessori School
WINNER
• The Child Unique Montessori School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Choice in Learning Montessori
• Creative Play Center
• Nomura Preschool
• St. John’s Preschool
• The Child Day Schools
WINNER
• Choice in Learning Montessori
August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 27 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023 WINNER BEST OF Parents Press 2023 2023
FAITH-BASED PRESCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Hearts and Hands Christian Childcare & Preschool - Fremont
• Holy Spirit Preschool
• Jewish Community Center of the East Bay
• Saint Philip Neri Catholic School
• Valley Christian Preschool
WINNER
• Saint Philip Neri Catholic School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Contra Costa Christian Schools
• King’s Valley Preschool, Concord
• St David Preschool
• St John the Baptist School
• St. John’s Preschool
WINNER
• Contra Costa Christian Schools
INDEPENDENT PRESCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkeley Rose Waldorf School
• East Bay German International School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Rockridge Montessori
• Step One School
WINNER
• East Bay German International School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Choice in Learning Montessori
• Creative Play Center
• Fountainhead Montessori School
• St. John’s Preschool Clayton
• The Garden Community Preschool
WINNER
• Choice in Learning Montessori
LARGE PRESCHOOLS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• East Bay German International School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Montessori School at Five Canyons
• Step One School
• The Child Unique Montessori School
WINNER
• Step One School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
THE TOP 5
• Choice in Learning Montessori
• Creative Play Center
• Old Firehouse Schools
• St. John’s Preschool
• The Garden Community Preschool
WINNER
• Choice in Learning Montessori
MONTESSORI PRESCHOOLS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Global Montessori International School
• Grand Lake Montessori
• Montessori School at Five Canyons
• The Child Unique Montessori School
• The Renaissance International School
WINNER
• The Child Unique Montessori School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Choice in Learning Montessori
• Fountainhead Montessori School
28 Parents Press | August 2023 BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023 Montessori Elementary Intermediate School of Alameda – MEISA Introducing New Montessori Middle School program in fall 2023 6th through 8th grade WINNER BEST OF Parents Press 2023 2023 510.521.0595 1400 6th Street • Alameda www.thechildunique.org At MEISA, Montessori is mind-changing education Since 1956
• La Casita Bilingue Montessori School
• Myrtle Farm Montessori School
WINNER
• Choice in Learning Montessori
SMALL PRESCHOOLS
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkeley Rose Waldorf School
• Duck Pond
• Genius Kids
• Global Montessori International School
• Montclair Community Play Center (MCPC)
WINNER
• Berkeley Rose Waldorf School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• City of El Cerrito Recreation DepartmentTeeter Tots
• Clayton Valley Parent PreSchool
• Pixie Play School
• Skytown Preschool
• Story Garden Preschool and Childcare
WINNER
• Clayton Valley Parent PreSchool
SCHOOLS — ELEMENTARY
ALTERNATIVE
LEARNING STYLES
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkwood Hedge School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Escuela Bilingüe Internacional (EBI)
• Park Day School
• The Crowden School
WINNER
• Park Day School
BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Golestan School
• Holbrook Elementary School
• Prospect Sierra School
• The Saklan School
• The Seven Hills School
WINNER
• Prospect Sierra School
BILINGUAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• East Bay German International School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Escuela Bilingüe Internacional (EBI)
• The Renaissance International School
• Yu Ming Charter School
WINNER
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Cambridge Park
• Golestan School
• Holbrook Language Academy
• St David School
• Viva el Espanol
WINNER
• Holbrook Language Academy
FAITH-BASED ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• California Crosspoint Academy
• Coastline Christian School
• Corpus Christi School
• Redwood Christian Elementary School
• Saint Philip Neri Catholic School
WINNER
• Saint Philip Neri Catholic School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• King’s Valley Christian School
• St David School
• St John the Baptist School
• St Mary School
• St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception
WINNER
• St John the Baptist School
MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Global Montessori
• Grand Lake Montessori
• Montessori Elementary School of Alameda
• East Bay Montessori School
• The Renaissance International School
WINNER
• Montessori Elementary School of Alameda
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alice’s Montessori Learning
• Eagle Peak Montessori School
• East Bay Montessori School
• Montessori School of Concord
• Pearlite Montessori House of Children
WINNER
• East Bay Montessori School
PRIVATE INDEPENDENT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkwood Hedge School
• Black Pine Circle School
• East Bay German International School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Park Day School
WINNER
• Berkwood Hedge School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Golestan School
• NorthCreek Academy
• Prospect Sierra School
• The Saklan School
• The Seven Hills School
WINNER
• The Seven Hills School
PROGRESSIVE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkeley Rose Waldorf School
• Berkwood Hedge School
• Black Pine Circle School
• Park Day School
• Redwood Day School
WINNER
• Park Day School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Golestan School
• Holbrook Language Academy
• Prospect Sierra School
• The Saklan School
• The Seven Hills School
WINNER
• Prospect Sierra School
August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 29
PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Francophone Charter School
• Franklin Elementary School - Alameda
• Lincoln Elementary School
• Oxford Elementary School
• Yu Ming Charter School
WINNER
• Yu Ming Charter School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Harding Elementary School
• Holbrook Language Academy
• Monte Gardens Elementary
• Neil Armstrong Elementary School
• Sequoia Elementary School
WINNER
• Holbrook Language Academy
SCHOOLS — MIDDLE
BILINGUAL MIDDLE SCHOOL
TOP 5
• East Bay German International School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Escuela Bilingüe
Internacional (EBI)
• Francophone Charter School
• Yu Ming Charter School
WINNER (TIE)
• East Bay German International School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
FAITH-BASED MIDDLE SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• California Crosspoint Academy
• Coastline Christian School
• Corpus Christi School
• Saint Philip Neri Catholic School
• St. Joseph Elementary School
WINNER
• Corpus Christi School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• King’s Valley Christian School
• St John the Baptist School
• St. Agnes School
• St. David School
• St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception
WINNER
• St John the Baptist School
PRIVATE INDEPENDENT MIDDLE SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkwood Hedge School
• Crowden School
• Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley
• Montessori Elementary School of Alameda
• Park Day School
WINNER
• Park Day School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Prospect Sierra School
• The Athenian School
BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023 12: 15 PM 2016 and Jan 11, Please call to schedule a tour facebook.com/saintphilipnerischool 510-521-0787 Discover why families have been returning for generations. TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE INFORMATION NIGHTS • Dec 1, 2016 and Jan 11, 2017 • 7PM OPN HOUSE • Jan 29, 2017 • 10:15 AM – 12: 15 PM TUESDAY TOURS • Please call to schedule a tour school.spnalameda.org • facebook.com/saintphilipnerischool 1335 High Street, Alameda, CA 94501 • 510-521-0787 Discover why families have been returning for generations. TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE www.spnalameda.org parkdayschool.org (510) 653-0317 K-8 progressive education in Oakland‘s Temescal. WINNER BEST OF Parents Press 2023 2023
• The Dorris-Eaton School
• The Seven Hills School
• Tilden Preparatory School
WINNER
• The Seven Hills School
PROGRESSIVE MIDDLE SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berkeley Rose Waldorf School
• Berkwood Hedge School
• Black Pine Circle School
• Crowden School
• Park Day School
WINNER
• Black Pine Circle School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Athenian School
• Crestmont School
• Holbrook Language Academy
• Prospect Sierra School
• The Saklan School
• Tilden Preparatory School
WINNER
• Prospect Sierra School
PUBLIC MIDDLE SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Albany Middle School
• Edna Brewer Middle School
• Itliong-Vera Cruz Middle School
• Lincoln Middle School
• Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School
WINNER
• Edna Brewer Middle School
• Fred T. Korematsu Middle School
• Oak Grove Middle School
• Orinda Intermediate
• Sequoia Middle School
BEST OF PARENTS’ PRESS 2023
• Windemere Ranch Middle School
WINNER
• Fred T. Korematsu Middle School
SCHOOLS
—
HIGH ALTERNATIVE LEARNING STYLE HIGH SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bayhill High School
• Maybeck High School
• Oakland School For the Arts
• Orion Academy
• Tilden Preparatory School
WINNER
• Maybeck High School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Fusion Academy
• Futures Academy
• Orinda Academy
• Orion Academy
• Tilden Preparatory School
WINNER
• Orinda Academy
FAITH-BASED HIGH SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bishop O Dowd High School
• California Crosspoint Academy
• Holy Names High School
• Saint Mary’s College High School
• St. Joseph Notre Dame High School
WINNER
• St. Joseph Notre Dame High School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Berean Christian High School
• Carondelet High School
• Contra Costa Christian School
• De La Salle High School
• Salesian College Preparatory
WINNER
• De La Salle High School
PRIVATE
INDEPENDENT HIGH SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Bentley Upper School
• East Bay German International School
• Head-Royce School
• Maybeck High School
• The College Preparatory School
• WINNER
• The College Preparatory School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Athenian School
• Carondelet High School
• De La Salle High School
• Orinda Academy
• Salesian College Preparatory
WINNER
• Salesian College Preparatory
PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL
ALAMEDA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Alameda High School
• Berkeley High School
• Castro Valley High School
• Oakland Technical High School
• Piedmont High School
WINNER
• Oakland Technical High School
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
TOP 5
• Acalanes High School
• Campolindo High School
• Dougherty Valley High School
• El Cerrito High School
• Miramonte High School
• Ygnacio Valley High School
WINNER
• Ygnacio Valley High School Y
August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 31
WINNER BEST OF Parents Press 2023 2023
By Janeen Lewis
7 Ways to Start the School Year Right
School bells will soon be ringing, and while that means no more sleeping in or lazy days at the pool, welcoming structure and routine back into family life helps get kids who are reluctant to return to school more motivated to go. With a positive attitude and a few back-to-school motivators, even reluctant school goers can start the school year off right. And getting off on the right foot paves the way for school success for the entire year.
Reintroduce routines
It’s easy to get off schedule during the summer when longer days beckon kids outside late and sleeping in is easy to do. Introduce routines for going to bed and waking up before school starts because it may take children a few days to adjust. Read a book together as a family to simulate academic routine before daily homework starts. If you have tweens or teens that have been staying up late, take their bed time back 15 minutes every night until you get to the desired bedtime so it isn’t too much of a shock to kids’ sleep cycles.
Get organized
Organize those areas that you will use for school preparations. Make a place for lunch and breakfast items in the refrigerator and pantry so they will be ready to go when making lunches or breakfast. Restock home desk supplies and prep study areas. Organize your laundry room with baskets for school uniforms, sports uniforms, and individual kid’s clothes. Don’t overlook your vehicle. Keep a basket with all the things you might need for those busy hectic drives between school, work and after-school activities.
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Purge last year’s items
Go through backpacks and closets and get rid of anything that is outgrown or worn out. Sell the nicest items at consignment stores or a yard sale, and save what you make to put toward new items this school year.
If your child has a hard time letting go of items even though they are worn out or don›t fit, try putting them in storage for a
32 Parents Press | August 2023
6
Set goals
Help your child set a goal for the school year, or set a family goal together. Maybe your child wants to ace pre-algebra, start a kid blog or read more books than they read last year. Or maybe he or she wants to kick more goals in soccer this year or nail that back handspring they have been working on in gymnastics. As a family, maybe you want to volunteer together at school or raise money for a worthy cause in the community. Setting goals can motivate kids and families to have an amazing school year.
7
month or two, then bring them back out. I›ve done this with my own kids, and usually they are willing to give up the items when they realize they haven›t missed them.
Celebrate with back-to-school traditions
It can be simple, like snapping a morning photo shoot before the first day of school, or elaborate, like hosting a neighborhood back-to-school bash at your house. Have a family meal at your favorite restaurant after the first day or plan a special weekend getaway before homework and sporting events kick in. Whatever you choose, model an upbeat attitude about the start of a new school year, and chances are your child will too. Y
Devise a shopping strategy
After you have purged your home of old items, it is fun to replace them. Sometimes kids get excited about returning to school because they get new clothes and supplies.
Check out all the sales flyers and compare prices for the things your child needs. Make a shopping list of needed school supplies, clothing items and any organizing tools you might need for closets.
If your school has already sent a supply list, you can shop early and avoid the crowds and out-of-stock items. Sometimes I even shop late in the evening for school supplies when the aisles are less crowded so I can look carefully for what my kids need. The more you plan, the more you can do in one trip. You might even make it a special day out with kids.
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Attend school orientations
Sneak-a-peek. Back-to-School Night. Readyfest. They are called a variety of names, but back-toschool orientations are another way to create a desire to go back to school. Students can meet their teacher, check out their classroom and see friends they haven’t seen all summer. This can make students previously hesitant to return to school eager to get started.
Students can meet their teacher, check out their classroom and see friends they haven’t seen all summer. This can make students previously hesitant to return to school eager to get started.
Janeen Lewis is a writer, elementary teacher and mom. She has been published in several parenting publications across the country and Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teacher Tales. August 2023 | ParentsPress.com 33
Teenagers Are Like Cats: COUNTING THE SIMILARITIES
By Katy M. Clark
It was 11 a.m. on a beautiful Saturday morning. Humming a little ditty about Jack and Diane, I opened the blinds in my teenage son’s room. As the sunlight streamed in, I changed both my volume and my tune, belting out Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi in hopes of waking my sleeping son.
Neither the sunlight nor my singing roused him. He slumbered deeply, his head cockamamie, pretty much at a 90 degree angle to his neck. His limbs splayed under the bed covers in all directions.
I glanced at the chair in his room to find our cat snoozing, her belly exposed, legs jutting every which way. Her head was cocked to the side. She was equally as dead to the world.
That’s when it hit me. Teens and cats are the same creatures.
It’s not just sleeping at all hours of the day, in the craziest positions. No, there are a lot of ways my teen and kitty are alike.
For instance, both will swat you away when they don’t want to be touched. Yup, there was that moment the other day when my son’s face looked just like it did when he was a toddler. Lovingly, I reached out to touch his cheek. Swat, swat. Just like, oh, pretty much every time I think it would be nice to pet my cat and she disagrees. Swat, swat.
Then there are all the times I come home from work or the store. I’ve heard dogs welcome you with love and affection. But cats and teens? Nothing. In fact, usually I call out to both, hoping to see them as I walk through the house. Just when I think my teen must be lying on the floor choking on a pretzel, because why else wouldn’t he answer, he replies with a subdued, “Hi.” Sort of how the cat barely opens her eyes from her nap when I find her.
Of course, that indifference melts away when it is dinnertime. Suddenly, both teen and cat are extremely affectionate and interested in what I’m doing. “This lady gives me food!” you can see
them both thinking, the teen hovering around the kitchen as I get out ingredients, the cat winding her way through my legs, purring.
Until they realize it’s meatloaf for the teen and Savory Seafood Guts for the cat. Suddenly, I’m persona non grata with such unfathomable mealtime choices. They both sulk away with nary a backward glance.
(I can’t serve pizza and Tantalizing Turkey pate every night, can I?)
Teens and cats are night owls, too. While I’m struggling to keep my eyes open after 10pm, these two kindred souls are just getting going. Run through the house jumping on the furniture and playing with a dust bunny at 1 am? Check for the cat. Play video games hooting and hollering at friends through a headpiece at 11pm? Check for the teen. Maybe if the cat and teen just played quietly with each other in the midnight hours I could get some sleep.
I could go on and on about how teens and cats are similar. Both still surprise me with the mess they make after eating. They are easily distracted by text messages or bugs, especially if these appear while I am expressing affection to them. Neither one can make a doctor’s appointment and go without me.
Yet, just one look at my teen and my cat and I am filled with love for these amazing creatures. I am proud to be their mom and have them in my life. And those sweet times they tell me they love me, whether through actual words or purring? There is nothing better. Y
Katy M. Clark is a writer and mom of two who embraces her imperfections on her blog Experienced Bad Mom
34 Parents Press | August 2023
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