Parents Press December 2016 East Bay

16 Great Skates | 2016 Best Read-aloud Books | All Aboard Holiday Trains

EAST BAY

December 2016

The East Bay’s Number One Resource for Parents

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December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press C

Contents

www.parentspress.com Publishers Robert and Tracy McKean

December 2016

Features

Art Director Debbi Murzyn

12

5 Ways To Give Back All Year Long

Account Managers Carol Flores, Sophie Archer Contributors Benjamin Campopiano, Aaron Crowe, Tony Hicks, Erika Mailman, Haley Reen, Mary Ann Scheuer, Meg Zweibeck Advertising Sales & General Info sales@parentspress.com Mailing Address 875-A Island Dr, Ste 421 Alameda, CA 94502

8

42,000 copies of Parents’ Press East Bay are distributed to more than 1,300 East Bay locations in Alameda and Contra Costa counties.

Nutcrackers!

From formal to events you can dance to!

20,000 copies of Parents’ Press SF/North Bay are distributed to more than 400 locations in San Francisco and Marin counties.

Departments 3

10 Fun Family Activities

13 Raising Dad

4

Off the Press

14 Growth and Development

TADA/Blue Ribbons Schools

What a Dad REALLY wants.

Go Back To Sleep Little One

Advertiser Category Index Enrichment Programs.............................. 3-4 Family Fun............................................... 4-6

5 Bookshelf

16 Kids’ Culture

Health and Wellness............................. 7, 11

Best Family Read-alouds of 2016

Holiday Performances..................................8

6

Family Cents

17 Family Fun Calendar

13 Side Hustles so Kids can Earn Some Cash

Preschools...........................................12-19

18 School Open Houses

Professional Services............................... 2-3

20 Great Skates Around the Bay

Retail....................................................... 10

22 All Aboard Santa’s Train

Schools...............................................20-28

10 Media

7 Movies & More to Reinforce Gratitude

Festive Holiday Lights to Enjoy

Send letters to the editor to editor@parentspress.com Family Fun Calendar submissions are due six weeks prior to publication date.

Send calendar information to calendar@parentspress.com Parents’ Press is published monthly. ©2016 Parents’ Press

13 Teach In

An Educator’s Wish for Students

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During your free planning session you will: • Avoid the 6 common mistakes when choosing guardians for your kids • Get your financial house in order • Prepare your kids for life without you • Learn the secret to protecting your kid’s inheritance from lawsuits and divorce • Ensure your kids inherit your values as well as your assets

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DECEMBER

7 | Wednesday the Riveter WWII Days 4 Rosie of Crisis — Richmond From D-Day through the celebrations of VEDay and VJ-Day, the national mood changed gradually, then dramatically. On Pearl Harbor Day view the ways in which America soberly and then ecstatically marked these worldchasing events through headlines, film clips, and photographs. 30 minutes.

11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Free. Adults. Visitor Education Center 1414 Harbour Way South, Suite 3000, in Richmond, www.nps.gov/rori

1 | Thursday Parade of Lights — 1 Holiday Walnut Creek Come down to the newly refurbished Broadway Plaza in downtown Walnut Creek, for a retailer Open House and a tree lighting. Santa himself will light the tree and make it snow!

6 - 9 p.m. Free. All ages. Broadway Plaza St., Walnut Creek. www.broadwayplaza.com/Events

9 | Friday 5 Christmas Revels — Oakland

This year, the California Revels is “coming home” to Wales in the 1920’s childhood village of the great Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. Mummers, carolers, and dragons will abound. Also on Dec. 10-11, 16-18

Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays & Sundays 1pm & 5pm 20-$60 per person. Ages 25 and under, special discounts. Scottish Rite Theater 1547 Lakeside Dr, Oakland, californiarevels.org

2 | Friday 2 Zoo Lights — Oakland

Going to the zoo at night time is half the fun. There will be music and fun activities.

The animal enclosures are decorated, and so is the small amusement park on site. The 20min train ride is just enough fun for little riders.

Through Jan 1, 2017.

5:30 - 9 p.m. $8 adults, $7 children, children under 2, free. $1 discount for members. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-6329525, www.oaklandzoo.org

3 | Saturday Artisans Holiday 3 Berkeley Open Studios — Berkeley For the 26th year, the local artisans of Berkeley open their doors to neighbors.

Enjoy a free, self-guided tour of over 100 professional artisan workshops and galleries.

This event runs each weekend day until the 18th, and then weekdays Dec. 19-24. See the website for a tour map.

11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Free. All ages. Various Berkeley locations. 510-845-2612, www.berkeleyartisans. org

11 | Sunday Amazing Bubble Show — 6 The Alameda The Bubble Man returns to wow audience members with bubble skills, tricks, and more. It’s amazing what can be done with bubbles, from volcanoes to square bubbles!

Accompaniment provided by Accordion Babe, Jet Black.

12p.m.-7p.m. $10 per person, children under 1 year, free. All ages. Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Dr., Oakland. 510-238-6876, www. fairyland.org

31 | Saturday Year’s Eve Balloon Drop 9 New — Oakland Ring in the New Year without staying up all night! Come to Chabot Science Center and celebrate strokes of midnight from around the world at 11 a.m., 1 and 4 p.m. Kids count down and catch hundreds of colorful balloons as they drop from the ceiling and participate in fun activities to receive a special prize.

11 a.m. & 1 p.m. $10 kids, $15 adults. All ages.

Rhythmix Cultural Works, 2513 Blanding Ave., Alameda. 510-865-5060, www.rhythmix.org

Dickens Christmas 7 Great Faire — San Francisco Held at the Cow Palace, this event features crafts, music, bawdy adult shows, kids art projects and shows, Santa, Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge, and Victorian parlour dancing at Fezziwig’s. Food and drink galore, too!

11 to 4 p.m. Registration required. $5 per child and $5 per guest. Chabot Space and Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd. Oakland, 510-3367373, www.chabotspace.org

Friendly New Year’s 10 Family Eve Party — El Cerrito

10 a.m.-6 p.m. 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City $14 ages 5-12, $30 ages 13 and up. Kids under 5 are free. 800-510-1558, dickensfaire.com

Winterland 8 Fairy Celebration— Oakland Fairyland will be transformed for the Fairy Winter Wonderland event! Featuring live performances celebrating holidays from many cultures, appearances by Santa Claus, special decorations and thousands of twinkling lights, rides, puppet shows, arts and crafts, free holiday treats, cider and hot cocoa, and more surprises!

The whole family can countdown to midnight in each U.S. Time Zone and enjoy magic shows, unlimited arcade games, and win tickets to exchange for prizes. A quiet room will be provided for sleepy partiers. Sparkling cider toasts for everyone! BYO snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

8 p.m.-12 a.m. $30/general admission.

Playland-Not-At-The-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592-3002, www.playlandnot-at-the-beach.org

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Fall Session Extended Through Dec 18 Spring Session: April 2 – May 28

Summer Sports Camp

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Morning, Afternoon, and All Day Camps Sports & Games Camp ~ Soccer Camp Baseball Camp Early drop off available from 7:00 am ~ Options galore ~

www.elcerritosportscamp.com (510) 559-8208 December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 3

OFF THE PRESS

By Erika Mailman

The TADA Act / Blue Ribbon Schools

A

nyone who’s ever stood on a high school field can tell you there’s a big difference between baseball and ballet, dodgeball and dance. Yet for the last 45 years, a P.E. credential was required to teach dance in California. An act signed

by Jerry Brown this fall—fabulously termed TADA!, for the Theater and Dance Act—ensures that credentialed theater and dance instructors will teach those classes. In 1970 the Ryan Act had eliminated dance and theater credentials.

TADA! passed through both legislative houses with 100 percent ayes and support from powerhouse educational groups such as the California Teachers Association and the California Federation of Teachers, among others. Even American Beauty star Annette Bening

lent her backing, testifying in support of the act before the Senate Education Committee.

“I’m happy to see the expertise of theater and dance teachers being valued with single subject credentials,” said Carol Hovey, director of the Livermore High School Theatre Program and president of the California Educational Theatre Association. “The recognition of the rigor and value of the arts is critical to moving the arts to the core of every child’s learning.”

According to the California Alliance for Arts Education, the author of the bill, Senator Ben Allen of Santa Monica, had argued, “California is the arts and entertainment capital of the world, yet we are one of only two states in the country that does not authorize teaching credentials in theater or dance.”

FAMILY FUN

Become a Reveler! this year proudly presents

a revels christmas in wales

“California is the arts and entertainment capital of the world, yet we are one of only two states in the country that does not authorize teaching credentials in theater or dance.” —Senator ­­ Ben Allen of Santa Monica Now students can be assured that their dance and theater instructors have the highest level of genre-specific training and a literal and philosophical background in the arts. Plié away!

Winning the blue ribbon California Crosspoint High School in Hayward excitedly celebrated its being named as one of the top 1 percent of schools in the nation.

Incredibly enough, this is the second time the private Christian high school has won such an honor. It first won in 2003, joining a limited pool of only 8,500 schools across the nation that have won this award in the 34 years it has been offered.

Schools first qualify for the award by placing in the top 10 percent nationally on standardized test scores, then they are able to apply for the National Blue Ribbon School award. The U.S. Department of Education reviews the applications, and, in the case of private schools such as California Crosspoint, the Council for American Private Education also examines the applications.

The judges ensure that schools not only

have great scores but also challenging curriculum.

So how do the Crosspointers celebrate? They get to fly a special National Blue Ribbon flag at the school, and a group of teachers and administrators will attend a two-day celebration in Washington, D.C., in early November. A celebration at Crosspoint itself in October, when the award was announced, incorporated the grand opening festivities for its new campus in Hayward.

Other area schools that won this honor include Evergreen Elementary School in San Jose, Hillcrest Elementary School in Oakland, Lafayette Elementary School in San Francisco, Laurel Elementary School in Atherton, Santa Rosa Accelerated Charter School in Santa Rosa, Strandwood Elementary School in Pleasant Hill, Sun Valley Elementary School in San Rafael, Thornhill Elementary School in Oakland and Valley Christian Elementary School in San Jose. Congratulations to all these strong schools!

Erika Mailman is a Northern California-based freelance writer.

Contact editor@parentspress.com with comments.

ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS Make exploring your Jewish community your family’s next big adventure.

Find ways to connect:

The Youth and Family Concierge Part of

Sprout

Contact our concierge about your family’s needs: concierge@jfed.org or 510.809.4914.

December 9–18, 2016 Tickets from $20 Oakland Scottish Rite Theater www.californiarevels.org or 510.452.9334

PRIVATE INSTRUCTION in

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“How far you go is limited only by your talent, interest and willingness to work. How much you enjoy the trip is also up to you.”

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Call 925/938-5284

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4 Parents’ Press | East Bay | December 2016

r us fo Join elling, t story , art, i s u m c and s game of fun S TON spañol!

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By Mary Ann Scheuer

Bookshelf Best Family Read-Alouds of 2016

R

eading aloud is one of the most important things parents can do with their children. Not only does it help develop many important skills, reading aloud brings a chance to have fun together, share stories and enjoy conversations. Talk about the stories you read together, what they make you think about, questions you have, choices the characters are making.

“Booked,” by Kwame Alexander (HMH; $16.99; ages 9-14; 320 pp.). Newbery-winning author Kwame Alexander scores with this mix of soccer, family, first crushes, friendship and poetry.

Middle schooler Nick struggles with his parents’ impending divorce, bullying at school and figuring out how to talk to the girl of his dreams.

“Dory Fantasmagory: Dory Dory Black Sheep,” by Abby Hanlon (Dial / Penguin; $14.99; ages 5-8; 160 pp.).

Dory loves making up stories with her friends (real and imaginary), but struggling to read makes her want to hide.

When a black sheep wanders out of her book and follows her home, plenty of hijinks ensue--making sure that kids new to listening to longer stories will laugh and ask for more.

“Full of Beans,” by Jennifer L. Holm (Random House; $16.99; ages 8-12; 208 pp.). Does building resilience in kids mean they have to be able to handle everything by themselves? Or that they can weather the hard times, with their sense of self intact? I adore this story as Beans struggles through hard times, learning about the consequences of his decisions, yet never losing his sense of humor or his loyalty to his family and friends.

“The Girl Who Drank the Moon,” by Kelly Barnhill (Algonquin; $16.95; ages 9-12; 400 pp.). This story is full of deep magic, wonderful characters, powerful themes and rich language. Readers will be swept away by an epic fantasy about a young girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a Perfectly Tiny Dragon who must unlock the powerful magic buried deep inside her.

“Ghosts” by Raina Telgemeier (Graphix / Scholastic; ages 8-12; $10.99; 256 pp.). When Cat moves to foggy Northern California, she worries that the town’s obsession with ghosts portends something dangerous and harmful. But soon, she discovers the town’s celebration of the Day of the Dead and her own Latino heritage. Read aloud this special graphic novel and see why kids fall in love with Raina’s books, reading them over and over again.

“The Last Fifth Grade of Emerson Elementary,” by Laura Shovan (Wendy Lamb / Random House; $15.99; ages 8-12; 256 pp.). Many of my students are drawn to realistic fiction because it gives them a chance to immerse themselves in someone else’s story. In fact, a recent study has shown that reading literary fiction helps improve readers’ ability to understand what others are thinking and feeling. This novel in verse is full of distinct voices that prompt us to think about different students’ unique perspectives. It’s one my students are enthusiastically recommending to one another.

“Pax,” by Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Jon Klassen (Balzer + Bray / HarperCollins; $16.99; ages 9-12; 288 pp.). A boy. A fox. Inseparable, until they are suddenly torn miles apart. Told in

the alternating voices of Peter and Pax the fox, this is a story full of love, loyalty and determination, a story about how grief, war and anxiety can take deep root but how friendship can help you find peace within.

“Sophie Quire and the Last Storyguard,” by Jonathan Auxier (Harry N. Abrams; $18.95; ages 8-12; 464 pp.)

Sophie is a girl after my own heart--a steadfast friend, willing to stand up for what she believes in. Above all else, she loves books and the stories they hold.

When her town’s leaders threaten to banish all nonsense from their town, calling for citizens to bring their storybooks to be burned, Sophie is thrust into the role of protecting the magical Book of Who. “What Elephants Know,” by Eric Dinerstein (Disney Hyperion; $16.99; ages 8-12; 288 pp.). Nandu, abandoned as a young boy in the jungle of the Nepalese Borderlands, is adopted by the wise and kind leader of the king’s

elephant stable. When the government threatens to shut down their stable, Nandu leads the way helping his community find a solution. Along the way, he struggles with his own cultural identity, broader social and environmental justice issues and government corruption.

“When the Sea Turned to Silver,”

by Grace Lin (Little Brown; $18.99; ages 8-12; 384 pp.). Young Pinmei often feels frozen by fear, yet her grandmother (Amah in Chinese) has the utmost faith in her, knowing Pinmei will step forward, bravely taking action when she needs to. Grace Lin’s magical, lyrical new novel captivates and enchants readers, as Lin draws us into Pinmei’s adventure.

Mary Ann Scheuer is the librarian at Emerson Elementary School in Berkeley. Find more books she recommends sharing with your children at her blog, Great Kid Books, http://greatkidbooks. blogspot.com.

10 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO RAISE A READER

http://www.readingrockets.org/article/10-things-you-can-do-raise-reader 1. Look for new books and authors that your child may enjoy.

2. Organize an area dedicated to reading and writing tools.

3. Visit the library for story time and book recommendations.

4. Encourage your child to talk about what he’s read.

5. Talk to your child, and sprinkle interesting words into your conversation.

6. Offer a variety of books to read.

7. Read with your child every day.

8. Expand your home library to include magazines and nonfiction.

9. Ask questions if you’re concerned about your child’s development.

10. Decide to raise a reader!

FAMILY FUN

December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 5

By Aaron Crowe

Family Cents 13 Side Hustles So Kids Can Earn Some Cash

T

aking your kid to the mall in December and giving them some money to buy a Christmas present for your spouse isn’t a financial lesson worth repeating. Yet every year it’s a ritual that many parents repeat because children don’t have jobs — and thus money — so they can afford to buy gifts.

It may teach them how it’s more blessed to give than receive, but it won’t teach them the value of a dollar and how much work it takes to afford that necklace, wallet or whatever they want to give their parents.

If a kid can walk, a kid can work.

I’m not talking about pulling your kid out of school to work 40 hours a week.

That’s illegal. But they can work a few hours at home on the weekend. And I’m not talking about doing chores so they can earn their keep at home. They can spend that money — if they are paid for doing chores — however they want.

What they need are side hustles they can do for a month or so and save this extra money for a gift for their parents.

Because unless you made it, if you’re not paying for something, is it really a gift?

Here are 13 side jobs that kids from varying ages can do to earn some money for Christmas gifts:

1

Dog walking: If your kid walks

your dog, they can walk a few others in the neighborhood. Have them put of fliers in the area advertising the service or go door-to-door with them. And make

5

Babysitting: This is a job that

6

Yardwork, raking leaves:

7

Garage sale helper: Spring

8

Lemonade stand: This is most

9

Make movies: With parental

should be left to older children, and preferably ones who have taken firstaid classes. It’s a time-tested way for teens to make money, requiring a lot of responsibility.

Again, these tasks may require a bigger, stronger teen and probably couldn’t be done by small children, but help pulling weeds or raking leaves can be a weekly money maker for a kid.

sure your kid is OK picking up after the dogs they’re walking. No one wants a dirty neighborhood.

2

Pet sitting: A few apps make

finding pet sitters easy. Sitters must be 18 or older, so if you sign up for one as a host, the pet will need your adult supervision. But that doesn’t mean your children can’t help. They can also ask neighbors and friends if they need a pet sitter when they go on vacation, either in their home or yours.

Washing windows: Get a bucket, soap, water, sponges, spray-

3

on cleaner and paper towels and a kid can be in business washing windows.

The windows should be at their level, so this may not get them very far, but with a small ladder they should be able to reach most one-story windows.

4

Recycling cans: Instead of

putting your aluminum cans in the recycling container for the garbage company to take away each week, have your children put them in large garbage bags and take them to the recycling center yourself. They can also ask neighbors to give them their cans.

FAMILY FUN

IDE TO REGIONAL GU

OOLS PRIVATE SC01H7 2016/2

Your Child ht School for Finding the Rig lishers of From the pub

and summer are the best times for garage sales, but a fall or winter one is possible if the weather cooperates. Ask your kids to gather everything they can sell and no longer use. Have them draw up some garage sale signs, and they’re on their way to making some quick money from things they no longer use but can be of value to others. Let them keep 100 percent of the profit from all of their items they sell.

likely to work during the summer but can be changed to selling hot chocolate if your child is up for sitting outdoors in the cold. Or have them set up a table outside a church with hot chocolate and doughnuts for sale on a Sunday morning.

guidance, help your kids set up a YouTube channel and let them make a few fun videos to post on their YouTube channel. Ads can go up on the video, allowing them to make money.

The New Guide Is Out

2016/2017 East Bay Guide to

Private Schools Pick up a printed copy or download your digital copy today! http://www.SchoolsEastBay.com Presented by Parents’ Press

6 Parents’ Press | East Bay | December 2016

10

Start an online business:

From an online advice column for teens to picking secure passwords to just about anything they can think of, kids can very cheaply start a website to sell a service or product. A parent can help them set up the site and get advertising going, creating a passive income for years to come.

11

House sitting: If your

neighbor doesn’t have a pet, they may still need a house sitter when they go on vacation. A child can help water plants, collect the mail and newspaper, turn lights on and off, and do a few chores around the house before the owners return.

12

Help the elderly: For a

13

Build birdhouses: For less

small fee, older children can help elderly people with simple tasks such as unloading and unpacking groceries, cleaning a house, sorting things, and doing chores.

than $5 in supplies, a teen who is good with a hammer and saw can build birdhouses and sell them online or in their neighborhood. Charging $15 or so for a good-looking bird house could give a kid an income year-round.

Whatever side jobs you let your kids do, make sure they’re safe and old enough to do the job. Always know

where they are, and, if they’re going door-to-door seeking customers, go with them.

Then, once the money starts rolling in, tell them what you want for Christmas.

Aaron Crowe is a freelance journalist in the Bay Area who specializes in personal finance writing and editing. He is a former editor at the Contra Costa Times and now writes for websites, including his own at CashSmarter.com. Follow him on Twitter @AaronCrowe.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 7

Nutcracker performances in the Bay Area This Season

W

hat are the holidays without a little Nutcracker thrown in? This classic ballet is danced and performed throughout the Bay Area this month, from professional and heralded companies bringing their magic to the stage to the up-and-coming dance stars of tomorrow leaping into your hearts.

Here is a selection of top Nutcracker performances in the Bay Area this season:

Oakland Ballet Nutcracker — Oakland

The City of Oakland’s Ballet Company is joined by the Oakland Symphony and the Mt. Eden High School Women’s Choir for this version of the classic, choreographed by Graham Lustig.

Immediately following the matinee performances on December 17 and 18. Children of all ages are welcome! Meet the delightful characters from Graham Lustig’s Nutcracker and enjoy enticing refreshments straight from the Land of the Sweets.

Bring your camera for pictures with the Sugarplum Fairy and her Nutcracker friends. (A separate ticket is required to attend the Nutcracker performance.)

Winter registration is OPEN!

(510) 848-SING eastbaymusictogether.com

8 Parents’ Press | East Bay | December 2016

Showings Saturday, Dec. 17, at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 18, at 2 p.m. Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakland. 510-893-3132, www.oaklandballet.org

Berkeley Ballet Theatre’s Nutcracker — Oakland

This rendition is great for little ones, as young as three. Principal roles will be played by young BBT students, so it is fantastic for the audience members who want to be ballerinas to see young people doing great things.

Dec. 16-18, Regents’ Theater, Holy Names University, 3500 Mountain Blvd., Oakland.

510-843-4687, www.berkeleyballet.org

“Impressions of the Nutcracker” — San Ramon

The San Ramon Valley Dance Academy brings the beloved holiday story the Nutcracker to life onstage, with stunning costumes, professional staging and talented dancers from the San Ramon Valley area. Audiences will follow Clara on her magical journey to the Land of the Sweets with her enchanted Nutcracker Prince. Each performance is followed by a visit from Santa Claus and a chance to meet the performers.

Sat., Dec. 10, at 7:30 p.m., and Sun., Dec. 11, at 11 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd., San Ramon. 925-978ARTS or 925-837-4656, www.srvda.com

Dance-Along Nutcracker — San Francisco

Each year the SFLGFB selects a theme to blend with Tchaikovsky’s classic Nutcracker Suite. The result?

A fun-filled musical production brimming with wit, artistry and ingenuity. For select songs, a large flashing “Dance-Along” sign signals the audience to tug on their tutus and pour onto the dance floor to pirouette beneath the spotlights with the cast.

Sat., Dec. 10, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sun., Dec. 11, at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Check website for more information. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St., San Francisco. 415-978-2787, www.sflgfb. townalive.com

San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker — San Francisco

This is the classic, real deal.

Dress up and arrive an hour prior to curtain for photo ops with the cast.

Shows from Dec. 10 to 29. Ages five and up. Please check the website for times and ticket prices.

War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. 415-865-2000, www. sfballet.org

Mark Foehringer’s “Nutcracker Sweets” — San Francisco

Nutcracker Sweets is a danced storytelling, developed in a special 50-minute version performed with live music, for children for all ages. Choreographer Mark Foehringer and the ensemble cast

give a contemporary twist on the classic holiday ballet. The cast and crew will meet, greet and pose for pictures after the show, so bring a camera! Multiple shows Dec.10-20. Herbst Pavilion, 2 Marina Blvd., San Francisco. www. nutcrackersweets.org

Orinda Ballet’s “A Sweet Dream Nutcracker” — Orinda

A 2-Act story ballet, about a young girl’s adventurous dream with her brave Nutcracker Doll.

The family fun-filled production includes, magical dancing dolls, soldiers battling mice, a winter kingdom with a Snow Queen and her dancing snowflakes. And to top it all off, is the ethereal Sugar Plum Fairy and her delightfully sumptuous dancing Sweets.

Showing the weekend of Dec. 9-11. All ages. Orinda Library Auditorium, 26 Orinda Way., Orinda. 925-254-2445, www.orindaballetacademy.com

The San Jose Nutcracker — San Jose

The San Jose Nutcracker is a two-act classical ballet production suitable for the whole family.

Children of all ages are welcome.

The production will last about two hours and have one intermission.

Multiple shows Dec.16-24. All ages. San Jose Repertory Theatre, 101 Paseo de San Antonio Walk, San Jose. sanjosenutcracker. com

My Very First Nutcracker — San Jose

My Very First Nutcracker is a special one-hour classical ballet presentation of The San Jose Nutcracker suitable for our youngest audiences, including children and toddlers of all ages.

Three shows Dec.17-24 at 11 a.m. San Jose Repertory Theatre, 101 Paseo de San Antonio Walk, San Jose. sanjosenutcracker. com

The Dance Center and Berkeley City Ballet Offering classes in Ballet, Jazz and Contemporary.

For all ages and all levels!

Stapleton Ballet Nutcracker — San Rafael

The vibrant, lavish Stapleton Ballet Nutcracker provides a magical start to the holiday season! Now in its 28th year, this production features inspired dancing, beautifully crafted sets and exquisite costumes. Artistic Director Virginia Stapleton’s engaging production is designed to delight audiences young and old and features guest artists performing with over 250 dancers from the Stapleton School of Performing Arts. Complimentary meet and greet with costumed characters after 1 p.m. matinees.

Dec. 3 and 4 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. www.stapletonschool. org

berkeleycityballet.org

Ages 2 and up Dance camps Birthday parties 4 state-of-the-art studios, sprung floors Easy online registration & payment Easy parking photo : andy mogg

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NutcrackeR Celebratee the Holidays at this joyous, family-friendly tradition!

December 16-18,2016 Friday 7pm | Saturday 11am, 3pm & 7pm Sunday 11am & 3pm | $35 per seat Regents’ Theater at Holy Names University 3500 Mountain Blvd, Oakland

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December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 9

By TheSmartFeed.com

Seven Movies & More to Reinforce Gratitude

(Not Entitlement) to

T

here is a scene in A Charlie Brown Christmas in which Charlie Brown’s sister, Sally, is writing her Christmas letter. Charlie Brown quickly becomes disgusted as Sally dictates what promises to be a long, very specific list and says Santa could always just send cash. As her brother walks away, Sally says, “All I want is what I have coming to me. All I want is my fair share.”

It’s a funny moment because few children would state the sentiment so baldly, but it plays to a fear many parents experience close to the holidays.

What messages are our children absorbing about presents? How do we maintain our traditions of gift-giving while making sure our kids don’t become entitled?

One strategy is to focus on counting blessings this time of year. Research continues to affirm the power of gratitude. Focusing on gratitude regularly and mindfully has been shown to have significant benefits for

Holiday media that reinforces appreciation for family, friends and other nonmaterial things can help to get the conversation about gratitude started.

Kids during the Holidays from being killed. Through ups and downs, Babe appreciates and rewards his good friends, including the farmer, with his devotion and grit.

or bedtime rituals to recount daily blessings, some classic movies and culturally diverse media can provide positive messages too.

Holiday media that reinforces appreciation for family, friends and other nonmaterial things can help to get the conversation about gratitude started. Some nice choices are assembled below for a range of ages from the kids’ media experts at SmartFeed (www.TheSmartFeed.com).

Movies that reinforce gratitude during the holidays:

Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas (5+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/ emmet-otter-s-jug-band-christmas Emmet and Ma work hard just to get by. They both secretly enter a talent show hoping to win the money to buy Christmas presents for each other. Neither wins, but in the end they are grateful for each other and their friends.

It’s a Wonderful Life (8+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/ it-s-a-wonderful-life The classic story of George Bailey being shown he is “the richest man in town” due to the love and respect he has in the community is an inspiring pick for the whole family.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (3+)

our physical and emotional health (http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/ expandinggratitude), including stronger immune systems and overall well-being and happiness (Greater Good Science Center - http://greatergood.berkeley. edu/). But how do we get our children to pay attention? In addition to dinnertime

http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/acharlie-brown-christmas First airing in 1965, this Peanuts animated television classic is a humorous and endearing reminder of how love and friendship can wash away the holiday blues (Charlie Brown’s initial reaction to the cheery holiday season). It weaves in a number of religious references.

Babe (6+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/babe Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture, Babe is the story of a talking pig that discovers he can be anything (even a sheepdog) thanks to his perseverance and the support of friends on the farm. On Christmas the friendship of the farmer saves Babe

RETAIL

The Black Candle: A Kwanzaa Celebration (9+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/theblack-candle-a-kwanzaa-celebration This documentary is the perfect introduction to the history and practice of Kwanzaa. The holiday’s focus on community and faith in oneself are great starting points for a discussion on what we are grateful for.

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http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/thepreacher-s-wife This modern remake of a 1947 romantic comedy introduces an angel (Denzel Washington) into the lives of a preacher, his wife (Whitney Houston) and son when the financial pressures of the church start to overshadow their relationship and appreciation for each other and for the joy of life. The angel reminds the pastor that his family is the most important thing in this life.

The Family under the Bridge (9+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/24428 A Parisian homeless man named Armand is generally happy with his life until some children and their mother take up residence under his bridge close to Christmas. With time he appreciates and embraces them as family, and he works to get them a home.

The Gift of the Magi (10+) Little Women (10+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/littlewomen The touching 1994 adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel features several heartwarming Christmas scenes, including the March family reconnecting with family and appreciating the joy of being together for the holidays. They express their gratitude by sharing their Christmas dinner with a neighboring hungry family.

Books that reinforce gratitude during the holidays: Oskar and the Eight Blessings (4+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/oskarand-the-eight-blessings Oskar arrives in New York, where he has been sent to escape Nazi Germany, on the seventh night of Hanukkah and Christmas Eve. He encounters kind people who help him and give him gifts; a beautiful story about the blessings people can offer others, even in dark circumstances.

Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story (6+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/sevenspools-of-thread-a-kwanzaa-story Seven brothers in an African village fight constantly. When their father dies, his will task them with making gold from seven spools of thread. In the course of accomplishing this, they learn to value each other and their community.

http://www.thesmartfeed.com/ creations/the-gift-of-the-magi The classic O. Henry story, with lovely illustrations by P. J. Lynch. A husband and wife sacrifice their most prized possessions in order to buy presents for each other, demonstrating the power of love - the true meaning of Christmas.

Apps that reinforce gratitude during the holidays:

Gratitude Journal (11+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/ gratitude-journal This app makes it easy to establish a daily gratitude practice; just take five minutes a day to record what you are thankful for.

For additional media options, check out this playlist of gratitude media (http:// www.thesmartfeed.com/staff_picks/ gratitude) that help children learn to appreciate what they have. Keeping the focus on appreciation, family and friendships is a recipe for happy holidays.

A TV show that reinforces gratitude during the holidays: Arthur’s Perfect Christmas (5+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/arthurs-perfect-christmas A wide range of holidays are represented here, including Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and St. Lucia Day. Many of the characters don’t get everything they were hoping for out of the holidays, but they learn to be grateful for what they do get.

My Menorah (2+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/mymenorah A fully featured Hanukkah app with a menorah to light, a dreidel game, songs and some foundational Hebrew.

Included are “Eight Days of Happiness” tips for parents on teaching children about the meaning and traditions behind the holiday and expressing appreciation for the miracle of the oil lasting eight nights.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (4+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/howthe-grinch-stole-christmas-dr-seuss A great adaptation of a well-known classic, with added interactivity. The Grinch is a great story for emphasizing that Christmas is about love and connectedness, not the material things.

Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol (9+) http://www.thesmartfeed.com/creations/ charles-dickens-a-christmas-carol The familiar tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s redemption and the joy found in love, not possessions, beautifully retold by pop-up book illustrator Chuck Fischer.

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S

omewhere between eating too much turkey and ripping open Christmas presents is a chance for gratitude and giving.

Three of the seven deadly sins — gluttony, greed and sloth — can take over the month between Thanksgiving and Christmas and overshadow the meaning of the holidays. But they don’t have to.

Families focused on spending time together can use it as a chance to be thankful for what they have and reinforce the importance of giving to others. To help children, and parents, better understand this and learn empathy, it can help to volunteer during the holidays.

While the thought of volunteering is fresh on the mind, December can be a

“Your children’s most powerful learning opportunities come from what they observe you saying and doing as well as what you all do together as a family.” good time to encourage children to give back throughout the year.

Volunteering can teach many important values, including empathy, self-esteem and civic responsibility and can serve as a way to explore new interests. Studies have also found that volunteering can lead to lower death rates and improve mental health.

“You want your children to learn proper values, life lessons that will sustain them all of their lives,” said Candi Wingate, president of Care4Hire in Norfolk, Neb. “Your children’s most powerful learning opportunities come from what they observe you saying and doing as well as what you all do together as a family.”

Five ways to volunteer year-round

There are probably all kinds of volunteering opportunities in your area,

but one way to help children start is to talk to them about the need for help.

Mark Aselstine lives in an urban neighborhood where people are sometimes asking for money on street corners and in front of the grocery store. It’s a chance to talk to his children about the importance of giving to others, Aselstine says.

“I think just having the conversation with your kids from a young age that sometimes people need a little extra help from time to time is a good place to start,” he says

1

.

CHARITY PARTY “We also try and make a small donation to a charity at the kids’ birthday parties in lieu of bigger favors for attendees — which we find just get tossed anyway,” he says. “So kids get a couple of gumballs, a paper airplane and a note saying that, in their name, some money was given to a charity.”

Their most recent donation was to a charity providing year-round housing for foster youth at San Francisco State University.

Another method is, instead of receiving gifts at their birthday party, kids can ask their guests to bring new or used toys to donate to shelters or churches or for other donations that can help other kids. The nonprofit Milk + Bookies offers ideas on how to host parties for guests to donate books to needy kids.

Latasha Kennedy, a wife and mom of two boys, ages nine and three, in Brooklyn, N.Y., says her family throws a Christmas party every year for her oldest son’s school friends, who are asked to bring a small gift to donate to children at shelter for women and children.

They often receive a thank-you note from the shelter, and the family discusses how their son helped make a difference. “It’s very impactful, and we find that it helps our son gain perspective and a greater appreciation,” Kennedy says.

2

VOLUNTEER AT A FOOD BANK Donating food and time at food banks is common around Thanksgiving and Christmas, but they need help the rest of the year also. Because food banks are nonprofits that rely on volunteers, many have family-friendly events that make it easy for children of all ages to attend.

The Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey has an area for teens and adults to sort food for its pantry and a separate area for younger children to color food bags or make cards for homebound seniors, says Lara Barrett, the group’s marketing director.

Be sure to check with your local food bank for requirements for young volunteers. The city of Alameda Food Bank’s warehouse may not be safe for children, so it requires that volunteers be at least 12 years old and that volunteers between ages 12 and 15 be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

3

CHEER UP CHILDREN IN A HOSPITAL If your child is up for cheering up children in a hospital, visit or call a local children’s hospital and ask what you can do, suggests Rachel Robertson, vice president of education and development at Bright Horizons Family Solutions. The organization offers tips for volunteering with kids and different ways to donate.

“You may want to suggest specific activities like hosting a holiday party, doing arts and craft projects for children in the hospital, painting the fingernails of all the girls, dressing like a clown and painting faces, or whatever your child thinks of,” Robertson says.

4

START A HELPING JAR With coins found on the sidewalk, leftover lunch money or any spare change they have, kids can start a “helping jar” to save money in that they can donate throughout the year.

The money can either be donated directly to their favorite charity, or they can buy travel-size toiletries to give to shelters or homeless people.

5

CARE FOR PETS Local animal shelters and pet adoption agencies often need help from volunteers. With the supervision of a parent, even toddler and preschoolers can play with kittens or dogs at an animal shelter and take them on walks.

Older kids can walk an elderly neighbor’s dog, or a family can take their pet to a nursing home to cheer up patients.

Whatever volunteer activities you pursue with your children, ensure that they’re grasping the life lessons inherent in the activities, says Wingate.

“Talk with your children about what lessons you perceived in the volunteerism,” she says. “Did you experience empathy? Gratitude for your many blessings? A desire to help others? Ask your children what lessons they perceived as well.

“Encourage your children to explore their thoughts and feelings and grow from each volunteerism activity. These life lessons will shape and sustain your children all of their lives.”

Aaron Crowe is a freelance journalist in the Bay Area. He worked as an editor at the Contra Costa Times and now writes and edits as a freelancer about such topics as families and finances, retirement and other personal finance issues for websites. He also writes about family finances at his website, CashSmarter.com. Follow him on Twitter @AaronCrowe.

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By Ben Campopiano

Teach In Six Wishes for Our Students

A

t this time of year, I can’t help but get into the Christmas spirit.

Whether it’s hanging the lights, decorating the tree, sipping on egg nog or making a list for Santa, I love the holiday season. But because I already made off with a new Keurig and pair of Nike’s for my birthday, my wish list this year to Santa is going to look a bit different. Here’s what I’m wishing for this Christmas...

1

I wish that pre-K wasn’t a political fight anymore.

In 2012 the United States ranked 35th among developed economies in school enrollment for three- to fiveyear-olds, according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. And since then, despite overwhelming evidence showing the value of pre-K education and a constant drumbeat of support from our president, not much has changed.

This means that, at every level of government, we are underfunding early education and placing the burden on American families, particularly families that don’t have an extra $20,000 lying around every year for private pre-K. For American schoolchildren to meet the growing demands of the 21st century, they can’t enter the public school system behind. We need every child - literally every American child - enrolled in preschool from the age of three. It’s fine to debate over the style of preschool or to haggle over the standards or curriculum of these early education programs, but the fight against universal, free pre-K has got to end.

2

I wish that teachers were millionaires.

Well, not really. But I do wish that we could pay them like the professionals they are. I wish we paid them like doctors, lawyers, engineers, police officers or firefighters. This would mean upping teachers’ pay. And upping it significantly. It would mean giving them real benefits, support staff and perks - just like every other

professional in the world. America’s students will continue to flounder if teachers keep fleeing the field, and the best and brightest up-and-comers avoid the profession altogether. The undervaluing of teachers shows that we - citizens, taxpayers and parents - are inadvertently undervaluing our children’s education. This has to change, for everybody’s sake.

When you surround kids with real support, you greatly increase the odds that all of them will reach their potential.

3

I wish that students had the support they truly need.

Millions and millions of America’s kids are struggling. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, addiction or a dozen other issues, the majority of our children need extra support.

Our schools must have the funding they need to hire more nurses, psychologists, nutritionists, college and career counselors, crisis counselors, chefs, trainers, coaches, secretaries, custodians, gardeners, and support staff. When you surround kids with real support, you greatly increase the odds that all of them will reach their potential. Today, when you walk into any school in America, you see the same things that you see at the DMV - a lack of staffing, support and resources. You see old equipment, outdated facilities, long lines and depressing furniture. We cannot afford to let our kids continue to struggle simply because we won’t pay for the fixes.

4

I wish that people cared more.

If people cared more about America’s public schools, we wouldn’t have teachers begging for supplies, principals begging for devices and districts begging for qualified teachers.

If people cared more, we would have the funding we need to make our public schools great and, in turn, our students great. If people cared more, then local, state and federal governments would care more. The purse strings would open, and the change would happen.

But for some reason - despite everyone in America conceptually knowing the

great importance of a good education - we still don’t seem to care very much. And thus, we get what we pay for: average to below-average schools producing average to below-average students.

5

I wish that community colleges were free.

Nobody should be denied the opportunity to go to college because they can’t afford it. That said, free college for all is probably a ways away in our country. So, we should do the next best thing and make our public community colleges free to everyone.

This will obviously cost us some bigtime money to set up and maintain, but the impact it will have on individuals will not only change their lives but our economy as well. The U.S. economy is predominantly driven by consumer spending. Therefore, simply stated, the more people learn, the more people earn. This naturally leads to more spending and economic activity, which will be a boon for all of us.

6

I wish that joy spilled out of our schools.

How sad was it when your child started dreading school, hating homework and complaining about their teachers? Remember the days when they were bouncing-off-the-wall excited to go to school? We can’t make kids (or allow kids) to grow up before their time.

We need schools - even high schools - to be places of play, places of optimism and places of joy. Practically speaking, this means that we as educators need to calm down about the homework assignments, standardized testing and Advanced Placement classes. And it means that students need to have fun at school, all the way through graduation day. School needs to be a place kids want to be, for if we can bring out their joy, there’s no question that we’ll bring out their best.

Ben Campopiano is a vice principal at Northgate High School in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District.

By Tony Hicks

Raising Dad A Father’s Gift Wish List

I

’m about to start the annual holiday dance with my family concerning what they should buy me.

Nothing.

Men say that and people don’t believe it. I don’t know why. If I really want something — and can afford it — I’d buy it for myself. If I can’t afford it, my wife and kids can’t either (you know, it’s that community property/everyone’s money thing), therefore, I don’t want them to buy it.

Seems pretty sensible. And it never works.

My best holiday memories have nothing to do with stuff ... except, of course, 1978, when I got Coleco football and Earth Wind & Fire’s Greatest Hits the same morning. That was a great day. I loved opening presents and all, but you get older, you have kids and it becomes about them.

At least until they open a present,

take one look at the scooter they just had to have and toss it aside to open the next box.

Then you vow the holidays are about to become about washing dad’s car and doing dishes.

But because we do this dance every year, I’m trying to figure out some things I can ask my family for that don’t involve buying me another T-shirt (their fallback gift, which is fine ... now that I have 5,238 T-shirts emblazoned with the logo of a sports franchise or a quote of something else someone deemed witty).

I realize a pet alligator is probably illegal, and Super Bowl tickets and airfare are out of the question. So I’ll do my best to be a tad more realistic.

• A weekend of no electronics. All three of my kids have phones, iPads, iPods, stereos, TVs, microwaves ... whatever, glued to their faces 23 hours a day.

You could say this is due to negligent parenting, and you’d probably be right. I just thought the more they get into tech, the better job they can get later to take care of their parents who didn’t plan properly for retirement.

Just one weekend. We could talk, maybe take a walk or go somewhere.

I know ... weird.

• A massage. A real one, with someone who has to be paid. I realize that costs money, but these kids make me tense. Plus it’s a good investment for everyone, as I’ll be in a much better mood for a couple days.

• Leave. Just go somewhere for a day and let me have the house. Or, even better, go to grandma’s for a weekend

and leave your mom at home.

• Leave with me. Despite that last gift idea, I like my kids most of the time.

Let’s go somewhere where there isn’t a lot of noise. And, no, you can’t bring a friend.

• And finally, be nice to each other.

Sometimes it happens and sometimes it doesn’t. Everyone benefits by such a crazy idea. Besides, it’s the holidays. Form a new habit, and see how long you can keep it up. Do that, and you may not ever have to buy me anything ever again.

Tony Hicks is a columnist with the Bay Area News Group and the father of four daughters. Reach him at editor@parentspress.com.

December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 13

By Meg Zweiback, R.N., M.P.H., Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Growth and Development Go Back to Sleep Little One Question My toddler (she’s 22 months old) has been waking up at 5 a.m. for the past few months. We are exhausted! I was told to just ignore her until 6 a.m., but that hasn’t helped and that means I’m awake anyway listening to her cry!

Help!

Answer I agree, 5 a.m. is too early for your toddler to wake up! It’s difficult for parents too. Interestingly, 5 a.m. is a time of light arousal for everyone and should be followed by two more hours of sleep. That’s why parents of babies sometimes find that, if they respond to an early waking by feeding in the dark, the baby will go back to sleep. But this need for feeding usually is gone by a year of age. For parents of young children, too-early wakeups can get in the way of everyone’s energy, patience and enjoyment of life for the rest of the day.

I’m assuming that you are keeping her room DARK and that the windows are blocked so the early morning sun is not advertising that the day is beginning at 5 a.m.!

First, find out what is “normal” for your child.

It’s important to know if your child really is waking too early for her age and stage of development. Many children are “larks,” and a parent who is more of an “owl” can find this difficult. Even an early morning, energetic “lark” needs a certain amount of sleep, so you want to figure out

whether the early waking can be helped by a change in schedule.

In general, almost all children from one to five years need 11 to 12 hours of sleep out of 24 hours, supplemented by naps. Keep a log of your child’s hours of sleep for a week or two to figure out if he or she is sleep deprived.

The total hours of sleep should be about the same every day. Another way of measuring sleep deprivation is to notice your child’s mood in the

morning. Does she wake up on her own seeming refreshed and happy? Or is she awakened by family members who are getting ready for work?

Does he seem cranky even though he’s awake? Noticing if there are variations of wakeup time or length of naps on weekends will also give you information about whether your child needs more sleep on a daily basis.

If your child is a “lark” by nature and you are keeping her up too late

For parents of young children, too-early wakeups can get in the way of everyone’s energy, patience and enjoyment of life for the rest of the day.

because you are an “owl,” she’s not going to sleep later. Instead, that may worsen the problem!

Here are the most common causes and solutions for early wakings: Going to Bed Too Late This explanation defies logic, because most adults wish they could sleep late after a late night. For children, it’s different. A child who stays up late gets used to the feeling of being overtired. For him, it’s normal.

Then, when he wakes up for the day nine or ten hours later, he feels fine, because the feeling of fatigue is what he’s gotten used to. (Adults are the same—we usually wake up because we have to, and we learn to function quite well on less sleep than we really need). Even though it is paradoxical, an earlier bedtime usually leads to a later wakeup time.

When children are giving up or resisting naps, they usually drop down on their total amount of sleep. This is a good time to adjust bedtime earlier, because the child who with a nap stays up until 8 p.m. may need to go to bed a full hour earlier—a tough situation for evening schedules in many families but necessary.

Going to Bed When Too Sleepy This situation can sometimes seem illogical, too, because you would think that a drowsy child who falls asleep quickly would sleep better, right? Not necessarily. When a child is overtired, she may not remember how she fell

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asleep at bedtime, or she may develop a falling-asleep habit of needing a parent to read to her or lie down with her while she drifts off. At 5 a.m., after nine to ten hours of sleep, she will have a natural waking time (we all do this), and without your help she can’t go back to sleep. So, in the same way that babies who are rocked or nursed to sleep will wake up periodically throughout the night, older children will sleep longer and more deeply for a long stretch but still can have a sleepassociation habit.

Sometimes toddlers who have shifted to a once-a-day nap become overtired if the nap spacing isn’t right for them.

This can happen when the nap at childcare is after lunch, quite common for three- and four-year-olds but too late for many toddlers. A typical toddler will need a nap after five hours of awake time, and his bedtime should be about five hours after waking from his nap—that usually results in 11 to 12 hours of nighttime sleep and two to three hours of nap.

Hunger Some toddlers are picky eaters and can get in the habit of eating small meals and frequent snacks during the

day. They are getting enough nutrition overall but not enough to last for a full 12 hours of sleep. They awaken early because they are hungry. If you are feeding or nursing your child at 5 a.m. and she seems hungry, then you will have to adjust her daytime intake to help her sleep later. The best way to do this is by not feeding her until 7 a.m. If she’s really hungry, try to distract her with diluted juice, which will postpone her desire to eat. Then, during the day, try to allow three hours between meals so that she is hungrier and eats more, because a child who “grazes” will often seem satisfied with tiny portions.

Every meal should be dense in calories, meaning higher in protein and fat than in carbohydrates.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Even though obstructive sleep apnea isn’t common, in my experience it has been the cause of the most difficult-toresolve early awakenings. Obstructive sleep apnea is usually caused by extralarge tonsils or adenoids (I say “extralarge” because most young children have large tonsils and adenoids compared to older children.)

The most common indicator of obstructive sleep apnea is that the

child snores or snorts during sleep.

Other signs might be that your child sleeps restlessly, moving about in bed without seeming to awaken or frequently sleeping in a “child’s pose.”

If you think that obstructive sleep apnea may be an issue, ask your pediatrician to refer you to a pediatric ENT (ear, nose, throat) specialist for an evaluation.

So What to Do? If you are certain that your child is not hungry or overtired or having a physical reason for waking up early, then the cause is behavioral, meaning that you are accidentally reinforcing his wakeup by your response.

I’m not a fan of letting a toddler cry without any response at all, but having a boring and predictable response at planned intervals may be helpful. What that means is that, when your child wakes up at 5 a.m. and calls you, you go into his room and quietly say, “It’s not morning. Go back to sleep.” You repeat this at 5-, 10- and 15-minute intervals until the time is at least 11 hours since he fell asleep at bedtime.

Then, go into his room, turn on the light, open the shades and announce, “It’s morning now, time to get up.” The

idea is for your child, when he awakens in the dark, to go back to sleep and to learn that it has to be light before it is time to get up. Some families use one of the cute wakeup clocks that change color when it’s time to wake up. If you want to add this to your morning routine, just make sure that the light isn’t so bright that it illuminates the room before morning time.

This approach make take weeks, so don’t expect to get more sleep for yourself for a while! Don’t start this approach unless you can commit to continuing. If you are inconsistent in your response, you’ll have to start again, and it will take longer.

Early wakeups are a challenge. And, to add to the burden, in a few short years your problem will be the opposite.

When the teen years begin, you’ll long for the days when you didn’t have to pry her out of bed!

Meg Zweiback is a Bay Area Pediatric Nurse Practitioner who counsels parents about children’s behavior and development. Her website, www. bringingupkids.com has more articles and information about children of different ages.

PRESCHOOLS

Oakland Montessori School

Nestled in the hills next to a local park where parents and kids often gather to play after school, we offer PLAY-BASED LEARNING for children 2.9 – 5 years old in a warm and engaging environment.

We follow a joyful 40 year tradition of gently nurturing children for the road ahead.

We’ve created a warm, WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT that helps build social skills and foster curiosity.

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Join our diverse community of confident children, supportive parents and experienced teachers.

ART • MUSIC • GYMNASTICS • YOGA

Tours on Wednesdays at 9:30am Please RSVP at info@oaklandmontessori.com

510-482-3111

www.oaklandmontessori.com

•

3636 Dimond Ave

Cultivating lifelong learners in Mandarin and English California’s only Mandarin immersion International Baccalaureate (IB) World School serving students from Pre-K (age 2-5) to 8th grade Shu Ren’s Preschool Program Offers: • Whole child focus with students supported in their personal, social, emotional and physical development • Teaching and learning delivered through a globally recognized international program with a structured-inquiry approach • 100% Mandarin immersion model • Low student-to-teacher ratio with highly experienced teachers • A nurturing, play-based environment fostering students’ natural curiosity

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Call today to schedule a visit Limited space available

CHATHAM SCHOOL

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Chool FUN Chatham HILD-CENTERED PRESCHOOL Fun Child-Centered PreSChool 4500 Road 4500 Redwood Redwood Road Oakland, CA94619 94619 Oakland, CA

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December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 15

By Haley Reen

Kids’ Culture Holiday Sparkle

A

fter the decadence of Thanksgiving and the spendy month of December, it’s nice to get a little something nice for not much money. Looking at beautiful displays of holiday lighting is free and can make fantastic memories. For the cost of hot chocolate and the gas to drive to these locations, families can experience wonder and awe that will fill them with spirit. A few of these options do cost a bit but will be well worth it to make the journey and the expense.

One needn’t celebrate Christmas or even wait until Christmas Eve to enjoy the lovely holiday lights, however. There are a few neighborhoods and special cites to view the most elaborate and fantastic displays. And because the sun goes down early, there is plenty of time to take a walk or a drive to visit them before bedtime.

take their own photos. Lights will be on until New Year’s Eve. The event has a Facebook page for more information.

3200 Thompson Lane, Alameda

The Spirit of Christmas — San Jose The Winchester Mystery House, a historical landmark rich with stories, offers unique and magical holiday tours. The grounds and the manor are twinkling with 100,000 lights. There will be Christmas carolers, Victorian characters, Santa Claus and more. Starting Thanksgiving and going until New Year’s Eve, there are both daytime and evening tours. Check the website for schedule and pricing.

Winchester Mystery House, 525 S. Winchester Blvd., San Jose. 408-247-2101, www.winchestermysteryhouse.com

Christmas Tree Lane — Alameda

Mountain View Cemetery — Oakland

The 3200 block of Thompson Lane in Alameda boasts a long tradition of going all out for the holidays. The houses in this area are bedecked with adorable and nostalgic decorations. Visitors must park and go on foot, where they may run into Girl Scouts selling treats. Santa will be there, too, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. until December 23. Donations for Santa time are suggested, but families

It may seem odd to see a cemetery festooned with holiday sparkle, but this cemetery was designed by the same man who designed New York’s Central Park. It’s a treasure to the area, and the daily 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. lighting displays, called the Holiday Circle of Lights, are wondrous.

5000 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. www.mountainviewcemetery.org

Widmer World — Pleasanton In 1980 this display started with a plastic Santa and some lights. Now it’s a one-acre festival of lights, with special effects, computer animation, a penguin village and some other crazy stuff. It is intense! Running December 1-31, every night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

3671 Chelsea Ct., Pleasanton. www.widmerworld.com

Marinwoods Mickey Mouse House — San Rafael The Mize family are Disney fanatics and have been collecting memorabilia since the 1970s. Their home becomes an awesome display, protected from little hands by plexiglass, so kids can get close without getting in trouble! The home has its own Facebook page for times and dates.

417 Blackstone Dr., San Rafael

Morgan Family Christmas Light Show — Newark This 15-minute-long light show works like a drive-in movie. Park in view of the show, and set the radio dial to 87.9FM to hear the music that goes with the show, which features 10,000 lights. Shows every 15 minutes from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through

Winchester House — San Jose Thursday; 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights.

36811 Gum Ct., Newark

Classic Cable Car Holiday Lights — San Francisco Hop on a cable car that is decked out in decorations, receive a free Santa hat to wear on the ride and take this 70 minute-tour of San Francisco landmarks, all lit up for the holidays.

Sing-a-longs are bound to happen.

Departs from Fisherman’s Wharf. Bring a blanket and a camera. Tickets sell out fast, so book in advance.

190 Napoleon St., San Francisco. 415-922-2425, www.classiccablecar.com Haley Reen is a Bay Area-based freelance writer. Contact editor@parentspress.com with comments.

PRESCHOOLS YEARS 2016 1986 CELEBRATING 30

H e l p i n g t O m a k e c h i l d h o o d a j O u r n e y, n O t a r a c e .

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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.

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Email to Schedule a Tour

Close to Rockridge Bart 5633 Manila ave – Oakland 94618 Lic. 01213520,013417669 & 013417787

16 Parents’ Press | East Bay | December 2016

The Child Unique Montessori School • Toddler • PreSchool • Transitional Kindergarten New second language and PE program

Enrolling Now! 2226 Encinal Avenue Alameda 510.521.9227 www.thechildunique.org

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Helping your child excel in a warm and nurturing environment

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BayAreaFamilyCalendar.com

Post Your Event Today!

Your Source for Family Fun Events and Things to Do.

December Family Fun Calendar 1 | Thursday Holiday Parade of Lights — Walnut Creek Come down to the newly refurbished Broadway Plaza in downtown Walnut Creek, for a retailer Open House and a tree lighting. Santa himself will light the tree and make it snow!

6 - 9 p.m. Free. All ages. Broadway Plaza St., Walnut Creek. www. broadwayplaza.com/Events

2 | Friday Tree Lighting — Oakland Bring the family to the Jack London Square waterfront for a spectacular tree lighting. A 55-ft. tall tree, with 5,000 lights and 600 ornaments, will dazzle one and all. Enjoy entertainment, treats, and a visit from Big Red himself.

5 - 7 p.m. Free. All ages. Jack London Square, Broadway at Embarcadero, Oakland. 510-6459292, www.jacklondonsquare.com

Magician Timothy James — Berkeley

Zoo Lights — Oakland

The Buddy Club is proud to present one of the best young corporate magicians working today, Timothy James. Tim’s hilarious routines and impressive magic skills are earning him rave reviews with audiences everywhere he performs. Part of the Buddy Club series of children’s shows, bring the little ones to this fun and child-appropriate magic show.

10 a.m.- 11 a.m. $8 per person, children under 2 are free. All ages.

The Village Theater and Art Gallery 233 Front Street, Danville, www. thebuddyclub.com

Ballet Joyeaux’s “Once Upon A Christmas” —

Walnut Creek This popular narrated ballet will sweep the audience into makebelieve land. This production features youth performers.

Shows at the Hofmann Theater, Dec. 2 and 3. www. lesherartscenter. com.

Friday Nights @ Oakland Museum of California — Oakland Join OMCA and Off the Grid in August for DJs, live bands, dancing, gourmet food trucks, and more. There will be a family Drop-in activity related to one of the exhibits. This

PRESCHOOLS

Preschool and Transitional Kindergarten One of Berkeley’s Best Loved Preschools 2’s program, Nursery School and Transitional Kindergarten

Opening in the Nursery School – call now Ages 2 through 6 Lic # 010209297

Gold - Best Childcare Gold - Best Independent Preschool

499 Spruce Street, Berkeley 510-527-9021 www.steponeschool.org

TK Open House Saturday, January 21st 10am-12pm Children Welcome!

December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 17

event repeats each Friday night.

5 -9 p.m. Members and ages 18 and under free, $7.50 adults. Oakland Museum of California, 50 10th St., Oakland. 510-318-8400,‎ www. museumca.org

Zoo Lights — Oakland Going to the zoo at night time is half the fun. There will be music and fun activities. The animal enclosures are decorated, and so is the small amusement park on site. The 20-min train ride is just enough fun for little riders. Through Jan 1, 2017.

5:30 - 9 p.m. $8 adults, $7 children, children under 2, free. $1 discount for members. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-6329525, www.oaklandzoo.org

3 | Saturday Berkeley Artisans Holiday Open Studios — Berkeley For the 26th year, the local artisans of Berkeley open their doors to neighbors. Enjoy a free, self-guided tour of over 100 professional artisan workshops and galleries. This event runs each weekend day until the 18th, and then weekdays Dec. 19-24.

See the website for a tour map.

11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Free. All ages.

Various Berkeley locations. 510845-2612, www.berkeleyartisans. org

Enchanted Winter Faire — Berkeley The Berkeley Rose Waldorf School’s Enchanted Winter Faire is a lovely little craft faire. Children can play games and make things for $1-$6 per item. There will be puppet shows, live music, Christmas trees and local vendors.

12 -4 p.m. Free admission. All ages. Berkeley Rose School, 2515 Hillgrass Ave., Berkeley. 510-8597679, www.berkeleyrose.org

Lighted Yacht Parade — Alameda / Oakland Estuary Head to the estuary shores in Alameda or Oakland and nab a perfect viewing spot for the Annual Oakland/Alameda Estuary Lighted Yacht Parade, starting just after sunset at 5:30 pm. This Bay Area tradition features dozens of festively decorated boats as they cruise along the estuary in competition for prizes.

5:30 p.m. Free. All ages. lightedyachtparade.com

Free Children’s Crafts — Walnut Creek Lakeshore Learning offers a free craft activity every Saturday!

11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Free. Ages 3 and up. Lakeshore Learning Center, 1929 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek. 925-944-1495, www. lakeshorelearning.com

Roller Coaster Weekend — El Cerrito Roller coaster nuts will enjoy a 2p.m. daily showing of amazing roller coaster footage from all over the world. Learn all there is to know about coasters from the experts. Stay and enjoy magic shows, unlimited arcade games, and win tickets to exchange for prizes.

10 a.m.-5p.m. $15 general admission, $10 youth and seniors.

Playland-Not-At-The-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-5923002, www.playland-not-at-thebeach.org

Great Dickens Christmas Faire- San Francisco

Holiday in The Park — Vallejo

Held at the Cow Palace, this event features crafts, music, bawdy adult shows, kids art projects and shows, Santa, Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge, and Victorian parlour dancing at Fezziwig’s. Food and drink galore, too!

10 a.m.-6 p.m. 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City $14 ages 5-12, $30 ages 13 and up. Kids under 5 are free. 800510-1558, dickensfaire.com

Continuing until Jan. 1, Six Flags will celebrate the holidays with snow and sledding, Santa and special holiday-themed shows.

12 -9 p.m. Tickets start at $49.95. All ages. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, 1001 Fairgrounds Dr., Vallejo. 707644-4000, www.sixflags.com

4 | Sunday A Holiday Tradition at Dunsmuir Hellman Estate — Oakland Tour the huge mansion and stroll the estate grounds while viewing turn of the century holiday decor. There will be holiday teas, horse drawn carriage rides, holiday performers and a kids zone with crafts and games. This special event happens every weekend all December long.

Make reservations in advance to enjoy the tea services.

12 - 4 p.m. Free admission. All ages.

Dunsmuir Hellman Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland. 510615.5555, www.dunsmuir-hellman. com

Snow Day in the Gourmet Ghetto — Berkeley Kids can tell the snow queen all of their holiday wishes. Ride ponies, make crafts, and eat snacks. Hot cider and cookies courtesy of Andronico’s. Local vendors offer unique shopping for holiday gifts.

10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Free. All ages.

Shattuck at Vine, Berkeley. www. anotherbullwinkelshow.com

5 | Monday Tot Art — Walnut Creek Bring your little one ages 20 months to 4 years to explore the colorful fun world of art! Each week features a different art piece to create and take home as your child discovers how to use different art mediums, applications and color mixing. Some projects even educate through touch sensory and/or team work. In this class every work of art your child makes is unique and completely their own little masterpiece. Repeats Monday. Reservations recomended.

9:45 -10:30 a.m. Ages 20 mths-4, 10:45 - 11:15 a.m. Tiny Tots 10-20 mths, $18 per child, members $12.

Small Talk Family Cafe, 1536 Newell Ave., Walnut Creek, 925-954-7468, www.smalltalkfamilycafe.com

Baby Brigade — Oakland Baby Brigade shows are recommended for babies one and under. Movies are usually rated PG 13 or R and over 4 will be charged admission. Both bathrooms and theaters are equipped with changing tables. Lights are only dimmed so parents can move around with baby as needed. Check website for showings and showtimes.

6:30 p.m. most Mondays, and midday showings on Saturdays. $8 | Parent. The New Parkway, 474 24th St., Oakland. 510-658-7900, www. the new parkway.com

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES ALAMEDA MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF ALAMEDA Open House DECEMBER 7, 2016 @ 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1400 6th St. 510-521-9227 http://www. montessorielementaryalameda.org SAINT PHILIP NERI CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Info Night DECEMBER 1, 2016 @ 7:00 PM 1335 High St. 510-521-0787 http://school.spnalameda.org BERKELEY BERKWOOD HEDGE SCHOOL Open House DECEMBER 10, 2016 @ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 1809 Bancroft Way. 510-883-6990 http://www.berkwood.org/ BLACK PINE CIRCLE SCHOOL Kindergarten Admissions Information Event DECEMBER 3, 2016 @ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Grades 6-8 Admissions Information Event DECEMBER 3, 2016 @ 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM 2027 7th Street.

510-845-0876 http://blackpinecircle.org/ ECOLE BILINGUE DE BERKELEY Information Session DECEMBER 8, 2016 @ 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Information Session JANUARY 10, 2017 @ 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM 1009 Heinz Ave. 510-549-3895 http://www.eb.org/

SHU REN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL K-8 CAMPUS K-8 Open House Info Session Student Show Case of Mandarin DECEMBER 3, 2016 @ 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM 2125 Jefferson Ave. (510) 841-8899 http://shurenschool.org SHU REN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PreK Open House Info Session - Student Show Case of Mandarin DECEMBER 3, 2016 @ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 1333 University Ave. (510) 981-0320 http://shurenschool.org STEP ONE SCHOOL Transitional Kindergarten Open House JANUARY 21, 2017 @ 10:00 AM 499 Spruce St. 510-527-9021 http://steponeschool.org/ WALDEN CENTER & SCHOOL Information Session JANUARY 7, 2017 @ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM 2446 McKinley Ave. 510-841-7248 http://www.walden-school.net DANVILLE THE ATHENIAN SCHOOL Middle School Open House JANUARY 7, 2017 @ 1:00 PM Upper School Open House JANUARY 8, 2017 @ 1:00 PM 2100 Mount Diablo Scenic Boulevard. 925362-7223 http://www.athenian.org/

MAYBECK HIGH SCHOOL Mini Open House DECEMBER 8, 2016 @ 9:30 AM 2727 College Ave. (510) 841-8489 http://www.maybeckhs.org

18 Parents’ Press | East Bay | December 2016

LAFAYETTE CONTRA COSTA JEWISH DAY SCHOOL K-8th Grade Open House DECEMBER 4, 2016 @ 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM 955 Risa Road. 925284-8288 http://www.ccjds.org MORAGA ORION ACADEMY Fall Open House NOVEMBER 9, 2016 AND JANUARY 6, 2017 @ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM 350 Rheem Blvd.

925-377-0789 http://www.orionacademy.org THE SAKLAN SCHOOL Middle School Open House JANUARY 6, 2017 @ 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM 1678 School Street. 925-376-7900 http://saklan.org/ OAKLAND MENTORING ACADEMY Information Session DECEMBER 3, 2016 @ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM 5951 College Avenue. Please RSVP to info@ mentoringacademy.org. 510.400.7696 http://www.mentoringacademy.org/ OAKLAND HEBREW DAY SCHOOL Preschool Open Art Studio DECEMBER 5, 2016 @ 3:00 PM 5500 Redwood Road. Please RSVP at plichterman@ohds.org or call (510) 531-8600 x12 http://www.ohds.org/

PARK DAY SCHOOL Lower School Open House DECEMBER 11, 2016 @ 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM Middle School Open House DECEMBER 11, 2016 @ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM 360 42nd Street 510-653-0317 http://www. parkdayschool.org/ REDWOOD DAY SCHOOL Lower School Open House DECEMBER 3, 2016 @ 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM Middle School Open House DECEMBER 3, 2016 @ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM 3245 Sheffield Avenue. 510-534-0800 http:// www.rdschool.org ORINDA ORINDA ACADEMY Open House.

DECEMBER 4, 2016 @ 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM 19 Altarinda Rd. 925.254.7553 http://www. orindaacademy.org/ PIEDMONT CORPUS CHRISTI SCHOOL Open House.

DECEMBER 6, 2016 @ 8:15 AM – 10:00 AM 1 Estates Drive. 510.530.4056 http://www. corpuschristischool.com/ Parents’ Press welcomes news of public, independent, and charter school open houses, information nights, and tours as well as school fairs. Please submit at http://www.schoolsbayarea.com

6 | Tuesday Drop-in Open Play — Alameda

© 2006: DAVID BALL - OWN WORK

Run, jump, bounce, dance, play, and more in any sort of weather in this indoor play space for the littlest of littles. Each Monday and Friday.

12 p.m.-2 p.m. $5 per child. Ages 6mo.-2 years. Terra Tech Fitness, 2203 Mariner Square Loop, Alameda. www.terratechfitness. com

7 | Wednesday, Pearl Harbor Day Rosie the Riveter WWII Days of Crisis — Richmond From D-Day through the celebrations of VE-Day and VJ-Day, the national mood changed gradually, then dramatically. On Pearl Harbor Day we’ll view the ways in which America soberly and then ecstatically marked these world-chasing events through headlines, film clips, and photographs. 30 minutes.

11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Free. Adults.

Visitor Education Center 1414 Harbour Way South, Suite 3000, in Richmond, www.nps.gov/rori

Pearl Harbor 75th Anniversary, USS Hornet — Alameda Join us in honoring those who payed the ultimate sacrificed at the start of

Dec., 4, A Holiday Tradition at Dunsmuir Hellman Estate — Oakland WWII. Hear stories from the heroes of the Greatest Generation. Veteran speakers include members of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, carrier pilots, and more surprise guests!

10:00 am- 4:00 p.m. Admission $10 $20. 707 W Hornet Ave, Alameda, www.uss-hornet.org

Tot Science Workshop — Walnut Creek Deck the halls with Fizzing Christmas Trees and more holidayinspired science. This monthly workshop is a fun introduction to the exciting world of science for little ones ages 2-4 years old! Science 4 Superheroes uses stories, songs and science experiments specially

tailored for this curious age group and the supportive environment allows children to develop fine motor skills as well as a love of science.

9:45 - 10:30 a.m. $18 per child, members $12. Ages 2-4. Small Talk Family Cafe, 1536 Newell Ave., Walnut Creek, 925-954-7468, www. smalltalkfamilycafe.com

PRESCHOOLS

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Preschool is 9 am until 1 pm - (extended hours available)

Applications are currently being being accepted

• Full-time & Part-time Rates • Small Classes • Computers

NOW ENROLLING FOR KINDERGARTEN

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2

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December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 19

16 Great Skating Venues around the Bay little ice rink has plenty of chill for every level of skill. If you don’t feel comfortable with just the skates, Ice America offers a “Bobby” the seal skating aid, which helps you balance! Runs through Jan. 8, 2017; Alameda South Shore Center 523 South Shore Center W, Alameda, thelittleicerink. com

Ice skating will be memorable for the kids or a great way to revisit your own childhood. You can even romance you know who with a spin on a Bay Area ice skating rink. Skating rinks options include scenic views and range in size from Olympic size to private with premiere amenities. Skates are either complimentary or available for rent at all of the rinks.

1. Walnut Creek Ice Rink, Walnut Creek Great for children of all ages and levels, Walnut Creek Ice Rink is a smaller family rink decorated with festive lights and holiday decorations. Runs through Jan. 16, 2017; 1375 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek, iceskatewalnutcreek.com 2. Oakland Ice Center, Oakland Operated by the San Jose Sharks, this indoor rink accommodates everyone from hockey players to recreational skaters. The Center’s Tuesday Cheap Skate deal lets you skate for a bargain ($8.25 or $12 with skate rental). Runs year-round; 519 18th St., Oakland, oaklandice.com 3. Little Ice Rink, Alameda With 4,100 square feet of ice skating bliss, this

4. Iceland, Dublin Seasoned skaters and amateurs will both appreciate the well-maintained, well-lit rink here.

If you’re seeking a fun outing the whole family can enjoy, head over to Iceland and enjoy a night of skating and fun. Runs year-round; 7212 San Ramon Rd., Dublin, dubliniceland.com 5. Union Square Ice Skating Rink, San Francisco This fun holiday ice skating rink is set amid the festivity of Union Square. Skating sessions last 90 minutes and start at each even-numbered hour.

Daily throughout December, 10 a.m.–11:30 p.m.; Union Square, San Francisco, unionsquareicerink. com 6. The Embarcadero Center Ice Rink, San Francisco This outdoor rink offers a panoramic view of San Francisco’s beautiful waterfront, located across from the historic Ferry Building. The spacious floor gives seasoned skaters enough room to glide about, with plenty of room left over for beginners.

Runs through Jan. 8, 2017; Justin Herman Plaza; embarcaderocenter.com 7. Yerba Buena Ice Rink, San Francisco Yerba Buena Ice Skating Center is San Francisco’s only year-round, full-service ice skating facility; we are open daily, including holidays, with public skating available almost every day of the year.

Runs year-round; 750 Folsom St., San Francisco, skatebowl.com 8. Union Square Ice Rink, San Francisco

8. Ice Rink in Union Square A San Francisco holiday tradition in the heart of Union Square, this locactionoffers fun-seekers of all ages a magical adventure. From families to friends and couples to colleagues, everyone can enjoy ice skating in San Francisco’s iconic plaza surrounded by festive lights and the sights and sounds of the season. Novices and naturals alike will love the outdoor ice skating experience in the middle of beautiful San Francisco. Runs through Jan. 16, 2017; Union Square, unionsquareicerink. com

Shop. Runs year-round; 1667 W. Steele Lane, Santa Rosa, snoopyshomeice.com

9. Bay Area Discovery Museum (BADM) Iceless Skating Rink, Sausalito Hit the “ice” this winter with family and friends at BADM’s Iceless Skating Rink! Children can strap on ice skates and glide around on a synthetic ice rink in Discovery Hall. The synthetic ice rink provides all the joy and excitement of a real ice rink but without the cold and icy falls! Get in the holiday spirit with this classic winter activity. Runs through Jan. 7, 2017; 557 McReynolds Road, Sausalito, bayareadiscoverymuseum.com

14. San Mateo on Ice, San Mateo San Mateo on Ice will open to the public on Friday, November 11, 2016, and will be open daily (including holidays). The outdoor ice rink features 9,000 square feet of REAL ice. Skaters will be able to skate in the sunshine during the day and under the stars at night. Runs through Jan. 16, 2017; Central Park 50 East, Fifth Avenue San Mateo, onicerinks.com

10. Marin on Ice, San Rafael Marin County’s only real ice skating rink is back for a fourth season! We open to the public on Wednesday, November 9, 2016, and will be open daily (including holidays). Runs through Jan. 8, 2017; Oaktree Plaza at North Gate Mall in San Rafael, onicerinks.com 11. Snoopy’s Home Ice: The Redwood Empire Ice Arena, Santa Rosa Peanuts fans and ice skaters unite. The recently remodeled Redwood Empire Ice Arena is tucked away in Santa Rosa’s Redwood Forest and home to all things Snoopy. Styled after 1970s Swiss chalets, the rink is accompanied by the Warm Puppy Café and Snoopy’s Gallery & Gift

12. Belmont Iceland, Belmont This full-service indoor skating rink is a local favorite and hosts different events and activities all year long. Not yet comfortable on skates but want to play around on the ice? Get a group together, keep your sneakers on and reserve the rink for a game of Broomball, which is basically ice hockey with a short broomstick. Runs year-round; 815 Old County Road, Belmont; belmonticeland.com

15. Palo Alto’s Winter Lodge, Palo Alto Beginners have no fear: safety is important here, with gloves and helmets recommended for all skaters, on-ice “guards” waiting nearby to help fallen children, and ice resurfaced every hour so the rink remains smooth all day long.

A warm fireplace, a vending machine that sells hot chocolate and a giant Christmas tree in the middle of the ice give this arena a festive feel.

Runs through April 15, 2017; 3009 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto, winterlodge.com 16. Santa Clara Ice, Santa Clara Lace up your skates! Ice in Central Park is open daily (including holidays) for its second season.

Runs through Jan. 16, 2017; Central Park 969 Kiely Blvd., Santa Clara, santaclaraice.com

SCHOOLS Enrolling Now!

Open House Event • December 7th 10am-12pm

Cultivating Creativity and Intellectual Curiosity For Over 70 Years K-5 // Now Enrolling // Schedule a Tour Today

– Inspired, Gifted and Talented –

MESA

Montessori Elementary School of Alameda

The International School For All • Small Class Size • Soccer • Mixed Age Groups • Ukelele • Community Involvement

At MESA - Montessori is mind-changing education!

Lic#013420948

www.MontessoriElementaryAlameda.org 1400 6th St., Alameda

510.521.0595

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20 Parents’ Press | East Bay | December 2016

1809 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA 94703 // 510-883-6990 // berkwood.org

First Wednesdays — Walnut Creek Juggling Unicyclists, balloon animal artists, and face painters extraordinaire will delight little ones while the grown-ups enjoy food, beer, wine and live music. First Wednesday of each month.

5-8 p.m. Free. All ages. Cypress St., between N. Main and Locust, Walnut Creek. www.walnutcreekdowntown.com

8 | Thursday “A Christmas Carol”— Walnut Creek Center REPertory Company’s production of the holiday favorite is consistently reviewed as being one of the best in the Bay Area.

Showings Dec, 8 through Dec. 18. www.lesherartscenter.com

Dec., 7 Remember Pearl Harbor Day on the USS Hornet — Alameda

SCHOOLS

Caregiver Café — Berkeley Caregivers of young children, nannies, sitters, etc., can join Habitot for a support and discussion group about the trials and tribulations of childcare.

10 -11 a.m. Free. Adults. Habitot Children’s Museum, 2065 Kittredge St., Berkeley, 510-647-1111, www. habitot.org

Free Art Studio Time — Berkeley Donate three or more canned food items and enjoy three hours of open art studio time at Brushstrokes.

Donations go to Alameda County Food Barrel. This event is ongoing every Thursday evening. Please call to confirm.

5 -8 p.m. Donation of three canned goods per person is admission.

Ages 5-12. Brushstrokes Studio, 745 Page St., Berkeley. 510-528-1360, www.brushstrokestudio.com

9 | Friday Friday Nights @ Oakland Museum of California — Oakland Join OMCA and Off the Grid in August for DJs, live bands, dancing, gourmet food trucks, and more. There will be a family Drop-in activity related to one of the exhibits. This event repeats each Friday night.

5 -9 p.m. Members and ages 18 and under free, $7.50 adults. Oakland Museum of California, 50 10th St., Oakland. 510-318-8400, www. museumca.org

Christmas Revels — Oakland This year, the California Revels is “coming home” to Wales in the 1920’s childhood village of the great Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. Mummers, carolers, and dragons will abound.

Also on Dec. 10-11, 16-18 Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays & Sundays 1pm & 5pm 20-$60 per person. Ages 25 and under, special discounts. Scottish Rite Theater 1547 Lakeside Dr, Oakland, californiarevels.org

December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 21

10 | Saturday Jack Of All Trades — Oakland

It’s hard to resist the romantic notion of riding the rails in a car pulled by an old-fashioned steam locomotive all lit up in holiday lights. It’s something that captivates most kids—and many adults too. Fortunately for railroad-obsessed kids and their parents, we have plenty of opportunities to take a real holiday train ride in the San Francisco Bay Area. Imagine a warm, cozy meander in a festively decorated train, sometimes with meals served and sometimes with a visit by kids’ favorite characters! Make sure to get reservations in advance, as several of these rides are very popular and sell out quickly.

Zoo Lights — Oakland Going to the zoo at nighttime is half the fun.

There will be music and fun activities. The animal enclosures are decorated and so is the small amusement park on site. The 20-minute train ride is just enough fun for little riders.

Dec. 2, 2016, through Jan. 1, 2017 (closed December 24 & 25). 5:30 - 9 p.m. $8 adults, $7 children; children under 2 are free. $1 discount for members. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-632-9525, www. oaklandzoo.org

train. Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday during the holiday season (except December 24 & 25).

Departs Niles at 4:30 p.m., departs Sunol at 7:30 p.m. $30 per person; children under 2 on laps are free. Niles Station, 37592 Niles Blvd., Fremont.

Sunol Station, 6 Kilkare Rd., Sunol. 510-7974449, www.ncry.org The Caltrain Holiday Train — San Francisco to Santa Clara This is not a train ride but an event. At any Caltrain station, enjoy seeing the train go by, bedecked in holiday decor. There will be entertainment and a drive for Toys 4 Tots. Get there 30 minutes before the train’s arrival. Dec. 3 and 4. Free. All ages.

At Caltrain stations from San Francisco to Santa Clara. 800-660-4287, www.holiday-train.com Napa Valley Wine Train Santa Train — Napa A 90-minute ride through the wine country with Santa and his pals. Kid-friendly meals are served, and parents can enjoy some wine. Daily thru Dec. 29 (closed Dec. 24 & 25). $55 per person. All ages. Napa Wine Train Station, 1275 McKinstry St., Napa. 707-253-2111, www.winetrain.com

Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad Holiday Train — Los Gatos The legacy railroad engineer Billy Jones—a personal friend of fellow train buff Walt Disney— this miniature railroad operates out of Oak Meadow Park in Los Gatos. Families can take an exciting train ride pulled by a scale steam or diesel engine, ride a restored antique carousel and more. Runs in December, Thursdays through Sundays, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 233 Blossom Hill Road, Los Gatos. www.bjrr.org Roaring Camp Holiday Lights Train — Santa Cruz A 60-minute ride on this vintage train features a sing-a-long and a visit from Santa. It ends at the boardwalk, where riders can stay and play at the arcade or ride the rides. Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11 and 17-23. 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. $31 adults; $25 children 2-12. Children under 2 are free. All ages. 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz. www. roaringcamp.com

Think of this as sort of a miniTreasure Island Flea Market. This free event combines kinetic art, workshops and live performances with fun and food.

11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. All ages. Jack London Square, 70 Washington St., Oakland. 510-645-9292, www. jacklondonsquare.com

Holiday Classics Weekend — El Cerrito Find all the famous holiday favorites, Santa, Rudolph, and the others, and win a prize! Stay and enjoy magic shows, unlimited arcade games and win tickets to exchange for more prizes.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. $15general admission, $10 youth and seniors.

Playland-Not-At-The-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-5923002, www.playland-not-at-thebeach.org

Berkeley Artisans Holiday Open Studios — Berkeley For the 26th year, the local artisans of Berkeley open their doors to neighbors. Enjoy a free, self-guided tour of over 100 professional artisan workshops and galleries. This event runs each weekend day until the 18th, and then weekdays Dec. 19-24.

See the website for a tour map.

Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights — Sunol This train ride sells out quickly because it is super awesome. There will be lights, singing and snacks on the 13-mile trip. Santa will be there too. No strollers are allowed on the

SCHOOLS

MAYBECK HIGH SCHOOL

Berkeley’s Independent College Preparatory High School

Mini Open House December 8 9:30am

2727 College Avenue www.maybeckhs.org

(510) 841-8489 22 Parents’ Press | East Bay | December 2016

11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Free. All ages.

Various Berkeley locations. 510845-2612, www.berkeleyartisans. org

12 | Monday

13 | Tuesday

Munchkin Mondays — Concord

Zoo Lights — Oakland

Family Music at Freight & Salvage — Berkeley

Energetic toddlers can jump for one hour or longer. Sky High Sports features dozens of large trampolines for hours of indoor bouncing fun. For kids walking up to 6 years.

One of the East Bay’s best venues for family music, Freight & Salvage, presents, in their wildly interactive shows for children and families, silly six-piece band Your Song My Song sings you through watery adventures, recycling kid revolutionaries, classic children’s books, jungle expeditions, and deep sea dives!

Doors open 10:30 a.m., show starts at 11 a.m. $10, $12 at the door. Freight & Salvage, 2020 Addison St, Berkeley. www.freightandsalvage.org/kidsfreight

11 a.m.-1 p.m. $6 per child, per hour.

Not valid on holidays.

Sky High Sports, 1631 Challenge Dr., Concord. 925-682-5867, www. con.jumpskyhigh.com

Going to the zoo at night time is half the fun. There will be music and fun activities. The animal enclosures are decorated, and so is the small amusement park on site. The 20-min train ride is just enough fun for little riders. Through Jan 1, 2017.

5:30 - 9 p.m. $8 adults, $7 children, children under 2, free. $1 discount for members. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-6329525, www.oaklandzoo.org

Children’s Yoga— Berkeley Join Prana for tiny yoga with tiny yogis. This is an ongoing class that meets each Tuesday. Drop in or sign up for a block of classes.

4-5 p.m. $9 per student. Ages 3-5.

Prana Yoga Center, 1723 Alcatraz Ave., Berkeley. 510-655-3664, www. yogalayam.org

SCHOOLS

11 | Sunday Land of Sweets Tea Party — Berkeley Join The Sugar Plum Fairy and her Nutcracker Prince in the Land of the Sweets for a memorable afternoon. Meet the Oakland Ballet Company dancers, enjoy Nutcracker performance highlights, live holiday music by Mt. Eden High School Women’s Ensemble, directed by Ken Rawdon, and high tea including a delicious assortment of sandwiches, desserts, sparkling wine and teas.

1:30 - 4 p.m. $65 children, $100 adults. All ages. Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave, Berkeley, oaklandballet.org

Festival Of Lights — Marin Face painting, holiday foods for sale, Miss Kitty sing-a-long, crafts, and other Hanukkah activities for the kids and their families. Celebrate the eight days of this special holiday.

Bring a gently used coat for the One Warm Coat drive on site.

11:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. Free. All ages.

Osher Marin JCC, 200 N. San Pedro Rd., San Rafael, 415-444-8000, www. marinjcc.org

The Amazing Bubble Show — Alameda The Bubble Man returns to wow audience members with bubble skills, tricks, and more. It’s amazing what can be done with bubbles, from volcanoes to square bubbles!

Accompaniment provided by Accordion Babe, Jet Black.

11 a.m. & 1 p.m. $10 kids, $15 adults. All ages. Rhythmix Cultural Works, 2513 Blanding Ave., Alameda. 510-865-5060, www. rhythmix.org

Great Dickens Christmas Faire- San Francisco Held at the Cow Palace, this event features crafts, music, bawdy adult shows, kids art projects and shows, Santa, Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge, and Victorian parlour dancing at Fezziwig’s. Food and drink galore, too!

10 a.m.-6 p.m. 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City $14 ages 5-12, $30 ages 13 and up. Kids under 5 are free. 800510-1558, dickensfaire.com

December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 23

14 | Wednesday Dance With Me — Berkeley Shawl-Anderson Dance Center Dance with Me class is for walkers through age 4 and their caretakers. Children and adults will dance, sing, play movement games and enjoy props for this fun-filled 45 minute class.

This class repeats every Wednesday.

9 10 a.m. $16 per child. Ages walking to 4 years. ShawlAnderson Dance Center, 2704 Alcatraz Ave., Berkeley. 510-6545921, www.shawl-anderson.org

15 | Thursday Third Thursday Stroll — Piedmont Support local artists and businesses while enjoying food, music, and more.

6-9 p.m. Free. All ages. Piedmont Avenue, Oakland. www. piedmontavestroll.org

16 | Friday Christmas Revels — Oakland This year, the California Revels is “coming home” to Wales in the 1920’s childhood village of the great Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. Mummers, carolers, and dragons will abound.

Also on Dec. 17-18 Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays &

Sundays 1pm & 5pm 20-$60 per person. Ages 25 and under, special discounts. Scottish Rite Theater 1547 Lakeside Dr, Oakland, californiarevels.org

Free Friday at Lindsay — Walnut Creek Every third Friday of each month at Lindsay Wildlife Museum is free to all. All ages will get a chance to get up close to the exhibits and activities at no cost.

10 a.m-5 p.m. Free. All ages. Lindsay Wildlife Experience, 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. 925-935-1978, www. lindsaywildlife.org

Fairy Winterland Celebration— Oakland Fairyland will be transformed for our Fairy Winter Wonderland event! Featuring live performances celebrating holidays from many cultures, appearances by Santa Claus, special decorations and thousands of twinkling lights, rides, puppet shows, arts and crafts, free holiday treats, cider and hot cocoa, and more surprises!

12p.m.-7p.m. $10 per person, children under 1 year, free. All ages.

Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Dr., Oakland. 510-238-6876, www. fairyland.org

17 | Saturday Gingerbread House Party — Berkeley Decorate a gingerbread house with candies, cakes, and sprinkles. Bring a bag of decorating candy to share and get a free pass to Habitot for a later visit. All houses will be donated to a local family shelter to brighten their holidays.

9:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. $10 per person, infants under 1 are free. All ages.

Habitot Children’s Museum, 2065 Kittredge St., Berkeley. 510-6471111, www.habitot.org

Wacky Winter Wonderland — El Cerrito From now until Jan. 1, PlaylandNot-At-The-Beach is open every day, except Christmas. Special holiday themed activities daily. Stay and enjoy magic shows, unlimited arcade games, and win tickets to exchange for prizes.

10a.m.-5p.m. $15 general admission, $10 youth and seniors. Playland-Not-At-The-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592-3002, www.playland-not-at-the-beach. org

Great Dickens Christmas Faire- San Francisco Held at the Cow Palace, this event features crafts, music, bawdy adult shows, kids art projects and shows, Santa, Jacob Marley, Ebenezer

Open Houses October 22 Open Houses December 3 (K-5) – 9:30–11:30 am Lower School (K–5) from 9:30–11:30 a.m.

December 3 (6-8) – 1:00–3:00 pm Middle School (6–8) from 1:00–3:00 p.m.

Berkeley Artisans Holiday Open Studios — Berkeley For the 26th year, the local artisans of Berkeley open their doors to neighbors. Enjoy a free, self-guided tour of over 100 professional artisan workshops and galleries. This event runs each weekend day until the 18th, and then weekdays Dec. 19-24.

See the website for a tour map.

11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Free. All ages. Various Berkeley locations. 510-8452612, www.berkeleyartisans.org

18 | Sunday Soul Sanctuary Freestyle Family DancingBerkeley Come to Ashkenaz for their weekly free-dance time. Music from all over the globe in many styles. Dance freely, no steps to learn. Not too loud, so little ones can enjoy too. Free organic fruit offered. Every Sunday.

11 a.m.- 1 p.m. Free. All ages. Ashkenaz, 1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley.

510- 525-5054, www.soulsanctuarydance.com

19 | Monday Gingerbread House Decorating Party — Walnut Creek

SCHOOLS

KINDERGARTEN – 8TH GRADE

Scrooge, and Victorian parlour dancing at Fezziwig’s. Food and drink galore, too!

10 a.m.-6 p.m. 2600 Geneva Ave., Daly City $14 ages 5-12, $30 ages 13 and up. Kids under 5 are free. 800510-1558, dickensfaire.com

GROW INTO GREAT

Little ones can have a blast decorating the pre-assembled houses with the provided icing and candies. Stay and play while waiting for the icing to harden, then take it home. Advance registration required.

5:30 - 7:30 p.m. $45 per family of four. All ages. Small Talk Family Cafe, 1536 Newell Ave., Walnut Creek. 925-954-7468, www.smalltalkfamilycafe.com.

Zoo Lights — Oakland

510.534.0800

Going to the zoo at night time is half the fun. There will be music and fun activities. The animal enclosures are decorated, and so is the small amusement park on site. The 20-min train ride is just enough fun for little riders. Through Jan 1, 2017.

5:30 - 9 p.m. $8 adults, $7 children,

rdschool.org

Open House Jan. 29, 2017 10:30am-12:00pm

School of the Madeleine 1225 Milvia Street | Berkeley, California 94709 | (510) 526-4744 | www.themadeleine.com

Spanish, Art, Music and P.E. Multimedia Computer Lab • Event Center/Gym Science Lab • Music Room Call Karen at (510) 457-1488 to schedule a small group tour

Saint Theresa School

4850 Clarewood Drive • Oakland 510-547-3146

24 Parents’ Press | East Bay | December 2016

Tours 8:30am 12/1 and 1:15pm 1/10 * Information Night 6:30pm 1/12

www.sttheresaschool.org

Please call 510-526-4744 or see our website www.themadeleine.com

children under 2, free. $1 discount for members. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-6329525, www.oaklandzoo.org

22 | Thursday

23 | Friday

Holiday in The Park — Vallejo

Fairy Winterland Celebration— Oakland

20 | Tuesday

Continuing until Jan. 1, Six Flags will celebrate the holidays with snow and sledding, Santa and special holiday-themed shows.

12 -9 p.m. Tickets start at $49.95. All ages. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, 1001 Fairgrounds Dr., Vallejo. 707644-4000, www.sixflags.com

Fairyland will be transformed for our Fairy Winter Wonderland event! Featuring live performances celebrating holidays from many cultures, appearances by Santa Claus, special decorations and thousands of twinkling lights, rides, puppet shows, arts and crafts, free holiday treats, cider and hot cocoa, and more surprises!

12p.m.-7p.m. $10 per person, children under 1 year, free. All ages.

Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Dr., Oakland. 510-238-6876, www. fairyland.org

Berkeley Artisans Holiday Open Studios — Berkeley For the 26th year, the local artisans of Berkeley open their doors to neighbors. Enjoy a free, self-guided tour of over 100 professional artisan workshops and galleries. This event runs each weekend day until the 18th, and then weekdays Dec. 19-24.

See the website for a tour map.

11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Free. All ages.

Various Berkeley locations. 510845-2612, www.berkeleyartisans. org

21 | Wednesday Toddler Kindergym — Oakland Kids who are walking to age 3 can come and enjoy tumbling, climbing, parachute play, bubbles and the ball pit. Baby siblings are welcome. This event repeats several times a week, check the website for details.

10-11 a.m. $12 first visit, $132 for program sign up. Ages 1-3. Temple Beth Abraham Social Hall, 327 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. 510-832-0936, www. tbaoakland.org

Out of the Box: The Rise of Sneaker Culture @ Oakland Museum of California — Oakland Opening day of this exhibition which will prompt visitors to reflect on sneakers as a representation of identity and sports fashion, while also incorporating community-inspired elements including what it means to be “Town-fitted” Oakland-style, a term developed to represent local fashion. Film footage, photographs, design drawings, and interactive media will showcase the history, technical advancements, fashion trends, and marketing campaigns that have played a role in the sneaker’s evolution.

11 a.m.-5 p.m. $15.95 general; $10.95 seniors and students with valid ID, $6.95 youth ages 9 to 17, and free for members and children 8 and under. There is a $4 charge in addition to general admission pricing for special exhibitions. Oakland Museum of California, 50 10th St., Oakland. 510-318-8400, www.museumca.org

24 | Saturday, Hanukkah, Christmas Eve Wacky Winter Wonderland — El Cerrito From now until Jan. 1, PlaylandNot-At-The-Beach is open every day, except Christmas. Special holiday themed activities daily. Stay and enjoy magic shows, unlimited arcade games, and win tickets to exchange for prizes.

10a.m.-5p.m. $15 general admission, $10 youth and seniors. Playland-Not-At-The-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592-3002, www.playland-not-at-the-beach. org

25 | Sunday, Christmas Day Zoo Lights — Oakland Going to the zoo at night time is half the fun. There will be music and fun activities. The animal enclosures are decorated, and so is the small amusement park on site. The 20-min train ride is just enough fun for little riders. Through Jan 1, 2017.

5:30 - 9 p.m. $8 adults, $7 children, children under 2, free. $1 discount for members. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-6329525, www.oaklandzoo.org

26 | Monday, Kwanzaa Grandparents Week— Oakland Today through the Dec. 30, grandparents get free admission to the park when visiting with grandchildren. See the “Nutcracker Prince” puppet show and Dana Smith’s circus comedy act.

12p.m.-7p.m. $10 per person, children under 1 year and grandparents, free. All ages.

Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Dr., Oakland. 510-238-6876, www. fairyland.org

Drop-in Open Play — Alameda Run, jump, bounce, dance, play and more in any sort of weather in this indoor play space for the littlest of

SCHOOLS

ST. DAVID SCHOOL “Where Faith and Knowledge Meet”

STEM Curriculum | Diversity | Faith Filled Community St. David School is a Preschool through 8th Grade Catholic school that offers a caring, faith-filled environment, where we focus on students individual needs. We foster the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, social, and physical needs of all students. Financial Aid is Available.

Call today to schedule your tour.

Open House & Pancake Breakfast Sunday, January 29 10:00am-2:00pm

870 Sonoma Street • Richmond Hills • 510-232-2283 stdavidschool.org • twitter.com/@StDavidSchool

St. Paul School

Educating the Mind • Body • Spirit with Faith Preschool and TK - 8th grades

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San Pablo

December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 25

are decorated, and so is the small amusement park on site. The 20-min train ride is just enough fun for little riders. Through Jan 1, 2017.

5:30 - 9 p.m. $8 adults, $7 children, children under 2, free. $1 discount for members. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-6329525, www.oaklandzoo.org

28 | Wednesday littles. Each Monday and Friday.

12 -2 p.m. $5/child. Ages 6mo.2years. Terra Tech Fitness, 2203 Mariner Square Loop, Alameda. www.terratechfitness.com

27 | Tuesday Wacky Winter Wonderland — El Cerrito

themed activities daily. Stay and enjoy magic shows, unlimited arcade games, and win tickets to exchange for prizes.

10a.m.-5p.m. $15 general admission, $10 youth and seniors. Playland-Not-At-The-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592-3002, www.playland-not-at-the-beach. org

Zoo Lights — Oakland

From now until Jan. 1, PlaylandNot-At-The-Beach is open every day, except Christmas. Special holiday

Make and Mingle Grown-Ups Only — Berkeley The last Wednesday of the month is a night where grown-ups can get their art on. This month, participants will make a pendant from wine corks, enjoy snacks and libations, and an opportunity to chit chat with other adults. Please make a reservation.

Check website for times. $25 per person. Adults only. Sticky Art Lab, 1682 University Ave., Berkeley. www.stickyartlab.com

Going to the zoo at night time is half the fun. There will be music and fun activities. The animal enclosures

29 | Thursday Holiday in The Park — Vallejo Continuing until Jan. 1, Six Flags will celebrate the holidays with snow and sledding, Santa and special holiday-themed shows.

12 -9 p.m. Tickets start at $49.95. All ages. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, 1001 Fairgrounds Dr., Vallejo. 707644-4000, www.sixflags.com

31 | Saturday, New Year’s Eve Noon Year’s Eve — Albany At noon, the ball drops. Free party kits, craft stations, and music!

11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. All ages. Albany Library, 1249 Marin Ave., Albany.

510- 526-3720, www.aclibrary.org

Noon Year’s Eve — Sausalito Kids who can’t hang till midnight can countdown to the New Year at

SCHOOLS

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School Tour January 20 at 9:30am

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IDE TO REGIONAL GU

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26 Parents’ Press | East Bay | December 2016

The New Guide Is Out

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from around the world at 11 a.m., 1 and 4 p.m. Kids count down and catch hundreds of colorful balloons as they drop from the ceiling and participate in fun activities to receive a special prize.

11 to 4 p.m. Registration required. $5 per child and $5 per guest. Chabot Space and Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd. Oakland, 510-336-7373, www.chabotspace.org

Family Friendly New Year’s Eve Party — El Cerrito

noon instead. There will be a DJ with music, special fun crafts, and beads!

9 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. $12 per person.

All ages. Bay Area Discovery Museum, 557 McReynolds Rd., Sausalito. 415-339-3900, www. baykidsmuseum.org

New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop — Oakland

Today’s fearless learners, tomorrow’s compassionate leaders.

The whole family can countdown to midnight in each U.S. Time Zone and enjoy magic shows, unlimited arcade games, and win tickets to exchange for prizes. A quiet room will be provided for sleepy partiers. Sparkling cider toasts for everyone! BYO snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

8 p.m.-12 a.m. $30/general admission.

Playland-Not-At-The-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-5923002, www.playland-not-at-thebeach.org

Ring in the New Year without staying up all night! Come to Chabot Science Center and celebrate strokes of midnight

SCHOOLS

St. Paul’s is an independent K-8 day school steps north of Lake Merritt.

Lower School Tour December 6

Tours weekly Open House, 15, 20167 6th Grade and•Middle School October Tour December 510-285-9617 • www.spes.org - Preschool - TK & Kindergarten - French Bilingual Program - International Community

NOW ENROLLING FOR 2017-2018 SCHOOL YEAR Schedule your visit today! www.eb.org

Sign Up

for our E-Newsletter delivered semi-monthly to your inbox! www.parentspress.com

CLASSIFIEDS ➤ CLASSES/LESSONS MUSIC

➤ PARTIES

Best Violin lessons Professional concert violinist. Experienced and enthusiastic. All levels. North Berkeley studio.

Call Donna at (510) 524-5203. $10 introductory lesson.

FUR, SCALES AND TAILS ANIMAL SHOWS For your party, school, camp or daycare.

Over 15 different animals in every show.

Fun for children of all ages. Call Tracy the Animal Show Guy at: 510-823-3923. www. furscalesandtails.com Please check out our great Yelp reviews.

Piano and Flute lessons Highly professional, experienced teacher. All ages welcome. Libushe Moskowitz, (510) 235-5860 in El Cerrito.

Piano Lessons in Berkeley Patient, experienced teacher. I have successfully prepared students of all ages, beginners to intermediate-advanced. Alexandra Yurkovsky, MA (510) 849-2613 $10 introductory lesson.

➤ FAMILY TRANSPORTATION GOING TO THE AIRPORT AND NEED A CAR SEAT? We provide the right car seat for the safety of your child. Taxi rates. 415-305-0819. americanalimo@yahoo.com

The Bubble Lady - Rebecca Nile How about something really different?

An interactive- award winning BUBBLE EXTRAVAGANZA SHOW – SUPER FUN! SUPER BUBBLES! PEOPLE IN BUBBLES! Bubble questions? 415-384-0619. rebecca@thebubblelady.com or www. thebubblelady.com.

The Puppet Company Creates “Fantasies in Miniature” at your child’s party. Classics, Fables, fun for audiences of all ages! Professional puppeteer, 40 years of entertainment experience. 510-569-3144. www.puppetcompany.com

All-Star Showgrams Rated four stars in “Babies by the Bay.” Princesses, superheroes, pirates, train conductors, cowboys, Elsa, Mary Poppins, Mother Goose, Dorothy, clowns, wizards, magicians, face painters, balloonists, storytellers, dance parties, mascots, jugglers, Santa, Easter Bunny and lots more! Your child’s favorite character. 650-574-3568. www.allstarshowgrams.com

or creative enrichment. Build self-esteem and success! Ivy (510) 528-8773. www.ivysandz.com

➤ SERVICES

➤ EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Have Room In Your Heart?

And your home for one more child? Grow your family by Fostering/Adopting a waiting child.

All ages. No fees. A Better Way. 510-601-0203 x305. www.abetterwayinc.net

➤ TUTORING / EDUCATION

Work From Home Part-Time Wisdom of the Whole Coaching Academy looking for creative, reliable independent contractor with passion for administration.

20 hours / week. $20-23/hr DOE. Help at Alameda office 1x/week. Email resume info@ wisdomofthewhole.com

It’s All About Literacy Skilled, compassionate, effective, individualized reading and writing instruction, grades 1-10.

Early intervention, remediation, skill building,

Want a Classified Ad? email classifieds@parentspress.com

Tutoring Is Caring Individualized help with mathematics, reading, writing, study skills, confidence, and motivation. All ages welcome. Rediscover the joy of learning. Call Esther, 510-733-0467.

December 2016 | East Bay | Parents’ Press 27

Ready. Set. Enroll.

Now enrolling Preschool – 8th grade

The curiosity to reach. The courage to grasp.

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@Stratford

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10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

REGISTER NOW for our open house StratfordSchools.com/NorCalOH

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January 28, 2017

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OPEN HOUSE

Stratford School makes admissions decisions early — and easy! So why wait? Enroll your child in a school that inspires children to become tomorrow’s creative problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders.

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Preschool State License Numbers: 073402482, 013417816, 013420588, 434404890, 434408056, 434407977, 434404336, 434406722, 434408877, 384001837, 434410807, 434410816, 073406680, 013420939, 414004014, 434413440. © 2016 Stratford Schools, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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