Sacramento Parent April 2019

parent April 2019

CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 26 YEARS

EARTH DAY...

GET JUGGY WITH IT!

On the Hunt for Eggs & Bunnies

Hit a HOmE Run at Baby’s First Birthday party!

CAMP ISSUE sacramentoparent.com

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APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Our Mission :

More Fun. Less Fear.

so True.

We’re not built for everyone — we’re built for kids.

At Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics, it’s our mission to deliver more fun and less fear. We strive to give nothing but the best experience to both the parent and child.

We have several convenient dental appointments and consultations for braces or Invisalign available, even on Saturdays!

We accept all major PPO insurances.

Schedule today!

Our services: • Preventive care • Dental X-rays • Cleanings • Sedation dentistry using nitrous oxide • Braces and Invisalign Treatment

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SACRAMENTO / ROSEVILLE / GREENBACK / NATOMAS / FOLSOM / RANCHO CORDOVA / CALVINE / sacramentoparent.com ELK GROVE / VACAVILLE APRIL 2019

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parent

on our cover

April 2019

Tyler Ryan, our Sweet T, loves playing outside, getting dirty, and going on adventures. His first word was “mama” but his favorite word quickly became “ball” and the only thing he likes more than playing ball outside, or inside, is doing so with ice cream! Tyler is a big brother now and is so excited to show his little brother how to run, jump, climb and throw the ball.

Photography by: Willow & Grace Photography www.CMichellePhotography.com

contents

15 departments

9

SAFETY 101 Keeping Kids Safe in the Car

13 CRAFTY

21

Photo Courtesy of: National Academy of Athletics, All Sorts of Sports, NationalAcademyOfAthletics.com

APRIL 2019

features

around town

11 17

28 CALENDAR

Memorable First Birthday Gifts

A Stepmom Shares Her Tips for Success

Re-purpose Your Laundry Detergent Jugs Learning with Board Games

21 CAMP Choose a Camp with Flair

26

Are You Prepared for a Disaster?

Earth Day & Outdoor Play

30

Hoppin’ Celebrations and Bunny Sightings

32 ON STAGE Family Favorites & Classics 34 April Events for Kids on the

15 HOMESCHOOL ADVENTURES

30

Spectrum

online exclusives this month Find Local Sleep Away Camps On Display | Enriching Exhibits

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APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

CAMP ISSUE

it happens here Register for Summer Camp Today Creative and imaginative programs that kids love, run by qualified and supportive camp leaders and teachers.

Children love our camp singing, exploring, creating, playing, moving, leading, and friendship building!

C ON V E N I E N T C A MP LOC ATI ON S

Most camps are at our centers right on campus, with the same convenient drop-off and pick-up you are used to for our before- & after-school programs.

SCHEDULES FOR BUSY FAMILIES

With camps during seasonal school breaks and traditional summer days, our licensed programs have flexible schedules and offer full days.

LOCATIONS IN

Elk Grove · Rocklin · Davis · Woodland Antelope · Dixon · Sacramento

LICENSE #434400406/300607157

The Crocker is for kids!

For only $9 a month, Crocker Family members enjoy: • • • •

UNLIMITED ADMISSION for 2 adults + children under 18 FREE WEEKLY & MONTHLY PROGRAMS for babies, toddlers, and kids EXPRESS ENTRY during peak hours DISCOUNTS on classes, ticketed programs, and at the Museum Store and café

Visit crockerart.org/sacparent to join today!

216 O Street • Sacramento • (916) 808-6730 • @crockerart fli 6

APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

In addition to seasonal blooms, sunshine and baseball there’s plenty to highlight this month: Earth Day, Easter festivities and Autism Awareness. Plus, there’s still tons of snow in Tahoe so you can get your spring skiing in! With so much to cover, you’ll want to be sure to check out the expansive calendar section in this issue starting on page 28.

co-publisher | SUE LETO COLE co-publisher | SHELLY BOKMAN editor | SHANNON SMITH art directors | PATRICE VAN DAM

StudioPRDesign.com

JILL LENDAHL, JillLendahl.com contributing writers: Rob Baquera | Elizabeth Delaney Susie Franklin Roeser | Michelle Kopkash Vida Mercer | Jan Pierce| Donna Sangwin Shannon Smith | Ashley Talmadge contributing photographer: Willow & Grace Photography www.cmichellephotography.com advertising executives: LINDSAY TRENZ | (530) 889.6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com CHERYL WAPLES | (530) 889.6176 cheryl@sacramentoparent.com APRIL PORETTA | (916) 209.0305 april@sacramentoparent.com

BILLING QUESTIONS

Shelly Bokman | (530) 889.6175 shelly@sacramentoparent.com

Visit SacramentoParent.com for exhibits and sleep away camps this month. Speaking of camps, we had so much fun gathering local camp images that we wanted to share as many as possible with you. Stay tuned for a full guide to camps inside the May issue.

If you’ve got a little one in your life that’s going to be turning the big ONE soon, if you are or know a stepmom or stepdad, or if you’re looking to add creativity to your homeschooling day...we see you and hope you enjoy the ideas and tips in this issue, too.

Warmly,

CALENDAR & WEBSITE calendar@sacramentoparent.com EVENTS events@sacramentoparent.com

instagram.com/ facebook.com/ SacParent SacramentoParent

pinterest.com/ SacParent

Shannon & the Sac Parent team

2019

Happy

Easter!

twitter.com/ SacParentMag

FAMILY PUBLISHING, INC. Sacramento Parent Magazine Subscription Rate: one year, $30 PO Box 598 Auburn, CA 95604 p (530) 888.0573 f (530) 653.2283 sacparenteditor@gmail.com | www.sacramentoparent.com

Sacramento Parent magazine is published monthly by Family Publishing, Inc. It is available free of charge at over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento.

Sacramento Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photos from our readers. Sacramento Parent is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission.

Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.

Visit www.sackids.org for more information sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019

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Sierra Child and Family Services

is looking for homes that can provide a safe, stable, nurturing and exible environment to children in need.

SHOP . DINE . PLAY

Healing today the hope for tomorrow

Do you have room in your heart and home for one more?

Become a foster/adoptive parent.

• Monthly stipend for all children placed

in your home

• Regular home visits by highly trained social workers to provide ongoing

support, answer questions and help

connect you with community resources. Â Â? Â?

• Fun social events to encourage

networking between families

SCFS provides:

• 24/7 on-call support for emergencies • Full service adoption program to facilitate and assist you in growing your family.

SCFS is a partner with the LGBTQ Foster Youth Collaborative. The collaborative is working to identify and support families that are able to provide loving, supportive, aďŹƒrming and permanent homes for LGBTQ foster youth.

Five oďŹƒces to answer any questions you may have regarding foster care/adoption:

Diamond Springs (Lic. 097005028) • 530-295-1491 Jackson (Lic. 037004238) • 209-257-1244 Sacramento (Lic. 347000190) • 916-487-2111 South Lake Tahoe (Lic. 097004206) • 530-544-2111 San Andreas (Lic. 057006074) • 209-498-2227

SierraChildandFamilyServices.org

LGBTQ Foster Youth Collaborative

CAMP BOW WOW DOGGY DAY CARE AND BOARDING

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Dogs Paws-itively Love Camp!

BENEFITS OF CAMP: Provides regular exercise to maintain a healthy body weight Relieves boredome, seperation anxiety and destructive behavior at home Improves socialization with dogs and people

As the leading baby gear rental service, BabyQuip serves families in hundreds of cities across the US and Canada. Our professional and insured Quality Providers deliver and set up high-end baby gear at hotels, vacation rentals, and private residences.

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JULIA NA PUGLIESE ELIA Get Your First Day FREE! (interview day) Camp Bow Wow Elk Grove 9263 Bendel Place, Elk Grove, CA 95624 | campbowwow.com/elkgrove 916-685-4590 Valid only at Camp Bow Wow Elk Grove. New customers only. Camper must be spayed or neutered (if over 6 months) and be current on all vaccinations, including Rabies, Distemper and Bordetella. Offer not valid on holidays and cannot be combined with any other discount or package. CODE: SACPARENT_AD Expires 4/30/19

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APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

I N D E P E N D EN T QUALI T Y P R OVI D ER

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IS YOUR CAR SEAT KEEPING Y0UR CHILD SAFE?

safety 101

By Rob Baquera, Public Information Officer Roseville Police Department

With over 24 million vehicles and more than 170,000 miles of roadway, road injuries and crashes are the leading cause of preventable deaths and injuries to California’s 8 million children. Whether you are driving your children to school or to the grocery store, the single most important safety tool for your children is their car seat. Who needs to use a car seat? Under the current California law:

• Children under 2 years of age shall ride in a rear-facing car seat unless the child weighs 40 or more pounds OR is 40 or more inches tall. The child shall be secured in a manner that complies with the height and weight limits specified by the manufacturer of the car seat.

(California Vehicle Code Section 27360.)

• Children under the age of 8 must be secured in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat.

• Children who are at least 8 years of age OR have reached 4’9” in height have the option to be secured by a booster seat, but at a minimum (along with all adults) must be secured by a safety belt. (California Vehicle Code Section 27363.)

While many parents currently use child safety seats, research has shown that the majority of car seats are improperly installed. Here are some tips on properly installing and using forward-facing car seats.

• Use the right car seat with a harness for your toddler’s weight and height. Toddlers are weighed and measured at every doctor visit, so be sure to keep track.

• Put harnesses through the slots so that they are even with or above the forward-facing child’s shoulders. Some seats require use of the top slots when the seat is forward-facing, so check instructions.

• Be sure the buckled harness is tight, so you cannot pinch extra webbing at the shoulder.

• Adjust the chest clip to armpit level.

• Use the car’s safety belt or LATCH system to lock the car seat into the car. Do not use both at the same time. Be sure to use the top tether.

• Your car seat should not move more than one inch side to side or front to back. Grab the car seat at the safety belt path or LATCH path to test it.

If you want to double check that your child car seat is installed correctly, you can contact the Roseville Fire Department. They are currently offering car seat installations by appointment only. Residents can schedule an appointment with a Child Passenger Safety certified technician by calling (916) 772-6300.

sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019

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O 7 D pen ay s!

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May not be combined with any other offer.

Expires 4/30/19

Educational Supplies for Parents, Teachers & Homeschoolers

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STORYTIME THEATRE OF SACRAMENTO CITY COLLEGE

Mention this ad for $10 OFF

Little Red Ridinghood Runs March 30th thru April 28th Saturdays & Sundays | Curtain Time 12pm

916.371.2386

2939 Promenade St. West Sacramento

Admission is $5 for ALL Ages

Cash or Checks ONLY at the door OR Tickets can be purchased online

citytheatre.net

with purchase of any bounce party

Coupon must be used at time of booking. Expires 4/30/19

www.TheBounceSpot.com

(Children under 2 are FREE)

Opening Day ONLY - Tickets are Half Price!

Group rate for parties of 15 or more get 20% OFF!

Call 916.558.2174 to make arrangements.

(The group rate not valid on opening day)

The Performing Arts Center, Room 106 (located in the little theatre) On the Corner of 12th and Freeport Blvd.

(Northwest corner of the Sacramento City College Campus) $2.00 for on-campus parking 24-7 The performance on Sunday, April 7th will be interpreted in American Sign Language.

For more info, please visit: citytheatre.net or call Professor Doug Lawson 916.558.2174

For Children (ages 3-9) with Apraxia, Suspected Apraxia or Severe Speech Disorder

INTENSIVE SPEECH • LANGUAGE THERAPY

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916.773.8282 www.BrightStartTherapies.com 10 APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Happy Birthday Baby!

By Susie Franklin Roeser, Gifts From The Heart Of Elk Grove For anyone other than the sleep deprived parents, a baby’s 1st birthday has a way of sneaking up on us all. It feels like just yesterday, we were picking out shower gifts or dropping by with a “welcome to our world” present (so we could get a peek at the new little one).

Now you receive an invitation to Baby’s 1st Birthday celebration and you’re stumped on what to bring. You want it to be special but practical, memorable but useful, and most of all, you don’t want it to be the same fantastic gift given to baby by another party guest. No need to panic, just read my tips and ideas for a memorable 1st birthday gift!

Parental Guidance. Of course, checking with baby’s parents as to what they need is always a good place to start. There may still be items left from the baby registry that they (and the birthday baby) would still really like to receive. Parents can also let you in on secrets (like how they received a truckload of clothing in size 2T but have nothing in the 18 mos. size for the season). Knowing exactly what baby needs will save you time when shopping and make your gift more meaningful.

Now or later? The next question you may want to ask yourself is: Do I want to give baby a gift they can use right now or (since they may not even realize they are the center of all this birthday attention), do you want to give a gift that may be more meaningful later? If baby was inundated with shower and welcome gifts, choosing a gift that may be more meaningful down the road might be a thoughtful option. Some gifts ideas in this category might include a special bank (maybe even with some $ inside), a growth chart, or a picture frame or scrapbook with places to add photos throughout a child’s lifetime are other great choices. Family members might want to give an item that belonged to the child’s parent or grandparent wrapped in a keepsake box to keep it safe until eventually the child is ready to enjoy it on their own.

Picture Perfect. Everyone has undoubtedly been snapping plenty of photos of the birthday baby with their phones—but, will baby ever get a chance to see these photos? Why not give a gift card or certificate to an online photo publishing company such as Shutterfly, Photobook America or even Costco—where the proud parents can quickly and easily create a photo-book certain to be cherished for years to come. If you think the parents might be too busy to create a book of their own, you could ask them to email or text you photos (which they may already be doing anyway) and surprise them with a photo-book chronicling baby’s 1st year.

Out and About. How about tickets to the zoo, children’s museum, aquarium or other outing the birthday baby would enjoy. New experiences for baby and family not only provide educational opportunities for the birthday child, but also make for special memories. You might even want to get tickets for your family as well and make it a “double date” so you can share in the fun.

Family Fun. Speaking of family fun, if the birthday baby has a sibling (and plenty of hand me downs) maybe a birthday gift the whole family can enjoy would be the way to go...Arts & Crafts Supplies, Gardening Goodies, Tub Toys, Sports or Outdoor Play Equipment, Kid Friendly Cooking Kits, Games or Imaginative Play, Props & Costumes...all make great options for gifts that both baby and siblings can enjoy together.

Books and Buddies. Cloth or board books are both great options that baby can enjoy now and will continue to use through early elementary school. Back in the old-days, books might have seemed like a boring 1st Birthday gift, but today’s books for babies are filled with fun! Whether you choose one with “lifts the flaps”, “lights & sounds”, “textures & tethers”, or just a classic tale with enjoyable illustrations—not only will baby get hours of entertainment—but they will also get a head start on invaluable literacy skills that will help them when they go to school and beyond. Pairing a book with a matching puppet or stuffed animal will allow for extended storytelling opportunities and can even become part of a cherished bedtime routine.

By combining one of the ideas above with your own creativity, you’re sure to come up with a 1st Birthday gift you’ll be excited to give—so bring on the PARTY! Susie Franklin Roeser is creator, owner and full-time employee of Gifts From The Heart Of Elk Grove.

Her other jobs titles include wife, mother of two teenagers, carpool driver, 4-H leader, teacher, party planner and local magazine article author.

sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 11

BYERS GYMNASTICS Summer CampS

The fun science day camp for curious kids!

Regular Price $180

2019 Camp Themes Physics Coaster & Science Magic

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if you sign up by

MAY 1st!

Camps are held June 24 - JULY 26 Monday thru Friday • 9am -12pm Ages 4-6 & 6-13

Extreme Innovators & Science Makers Robot Challengers & Reaction Racers Rocket Space Science

Held at Sacramento State University April Savings!

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Creative Adventures Abound!

Join ReCreate for our one-of-kind summer day camps.

Our camps are limited in size, but unlimited in fun!

Roseville (916) 781-2939 • Citrus Heights (916) 723-7700 ROCKLIN (916) 250-4050

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This year, to celebrate Earth Day, we challenge you to create a face from a laundry detergent bottle.

These bottles are great for faces because the handle makes a natural nose for your project. Before you start, go on a scavenger hunt for items to create your funny face. For this project I had some pen lids lying around that made great hair and an extra jar and bottle lids to make the eyes and mouth.

I cut my bottle to make a mask, but you can also re-purpose your face to be a plant holder. These projects look great with a plant as the “hair” for the container. To do that, carefully cut away the bottom of the container. Place the lid on the container, and then turn it upside down to craft your face. Fold two milk jug lids in half, they look like closed eyelids. You can even draw on eyelashes and other facial features with a sharpie.

Finally, add dirt to the container and plant a grass or hanging plant to be the hair on your “jug face”.

We hope you enjoy this Earth Day craft. We encourage you to think of every day as Earth Day, and to pledge to be an “Environmental SuperHero”. Make a difference each day by:

• Making it a habit to use a reusable water bottle and reusable coffee cup.

• Instead of choosing single packaged snacks, buy in bulk and put into reusable containers

• Buy second-hand clothing—or avoid trendy styles that won’t last past a season. Avoid impulse purchases.

• Follow the waste hierarchy—Reduce (Make less waste as your number one action, Reuse (Seek out sustainable habits to avoid single-use waste), Recycle should be your third option, NOT your first.

• Shop/donate to creative reuse centers. They are all over the world—diverting clean usable materials no longer wanted/ needed by businesses and individuals. In Roseville it is ReCreate. (recreate.org)

• Compost food waste and your garden will love you for it!

If you make a JugHead at home, be sure to post a picture to ReCreate’s facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/ recreate.org. All posted pictures will go into an entry for prizes like a family four-pack to their drop-in craft studio at ReCreate. ReCreate will also be offering this art project as a family workshop in April. For more details visit https://recreate.org/event-registration.

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14 APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

homeschool adventures

Break out the Board Games and Start Gameschooling!

By Vida Mercer Ever spent the morning playing impromptu Monopoly and then wondered, “This counts as math, right?” Well, there is a sub-style of homeschooling that employs board games instead of textbooks.

It’s called gameschooling, and it can be amazingly effective at teaching both content and skills.

Playing board games teaches skills like: • critical thinking • problem-solving • communicating • using strategy • actions and consequences • planning ahead And as for teaching content, pick a subject. United States Geography? Yep. Multiplication? Yep. Medieval European agricultural methods and resource management? Yep. There’s a board game for that. When I started checking them out, I was astonished at the selection of games available on any subject I could think of!

Some families use board games as an integral part of homeschooling on a daily basis. Others break out the games for special occasions, like a reward for finishing up school early or when you need to take a sick day.

I use gameschooling strategically, for maximum effectiveness in certain situations. We ditch the textbooks and break out the games to...

Cover a tricky subject or one where there is resistance. Inevitably, all kids face subjects that just don’t come as easily as others or those that don’t quite stick. And then there are the subjects where the child would clearly rather be walking over red-hot coals.

That is the perfect time to take a break from the standard curriculum and invest in some games. Having fun and laughing together takes the stress off a dreaded subject and makes everything easier to grasp and remember.

OUR FAMILY’S FAVORITE: Prime Climb – This beautifully colored game teaches arithmetic and a deeper math understanding through a fun mix of strategy and luck. Multiplication and division are made easy by combining colors. And younger children can play with adult guidance.

Give a crash course in a subject that’s not in the regular curriculum. One of the biggest pros of homeschooling is that you have endless possibilities when choosing what to learn about. I am so guilty of wanting to do all the things.

That’s when I take advantage of board games to hit subjects that we don’t have in our usual schedule. For example, we have been immersed in studying world history in chronological order. That means it takes a while to get around to studying our own nation, and I didn’t want to wait that long to give a foundation in U.S. geography. Break out the board games!

OUR FAMILY’S FAVORITES: Game of the States! – Can You Sell the Most from Coast to Coast? – This classic game, updated with fun STEM facts about each state, teaches not only U.S. geography but basic principles of economics as well. Even my 4-year-old plays it with reading assistance.

SET – This card game promotes critical thinking and visual perception, and we love it! It is fast-paced if you’re just

wanting a quick play break. It’s adaptable for younger ones and can be played solo or with a group. And what I love most is that I seriously have to work to beat my 7-year-old!

TIP: Think outside the board game box!

Use the games as inspiration for further study or exploration. We love our geography game, but they can only fit so many facts on a playing card. I bought a kid-friendly atlas of the U.S. to go with the game, and we use them together, reading hilarious and informative facts about each state as we land on it.

Practice social skills and collaboration.

Sometimes the most valuable skills you get from board games are the intrinsic ones. Board games teach kids how to follow rules, take turns, and be a good sport. But a carefully chosen one can also teach higher-level social skills like teamwork and cooperative play.

OUR FAMILY’S FAVORITE: Race to the Treasure! – Work together with your team to build a path, collect keys, and beat the ogre to the treasure.

This game cultivates shared decision making, creative problem solving, a sense of community, and so much more.

Next time you’re stuck in a curriculum rut or encounter a boring or difficult subject, try closing the books and breaking out the games. Discover how gameschooling can help make any subject easier and fantastically fun!

Vida Mercer is a writer and second-generation homeschooling mom of two daughters. Her website is www.mercerhomeschooling.com, where she provides resources and encouragement to help others find success in their homeschooling journey.

sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 15

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Discover the difference that small class sizes, extraordinary faculty, and focus on comprehensive subjects including Spanish, computers and fine and performing arts can make!

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Providing a personalized academic journey for ages 2 years to 8th grade.

• K-8 Public Charter School • Small Class Sizes • Full-Day Kindergarten • Core Knowledge Curriculum • Project Based Learning

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Whispering Oak Montessori Academy Fostering Growth, Nurturing Peace, Inspiring Curiosity Are you searching for something more than just a better education for your children?

Whispering Oak Montessori Academy offers a rich, nurturing and stimulating environment firmly grounded in the Montessori Method and designed to lay the foundation for a life long love of learning.

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Full Academic Montessori Curriculum Infant/Toddler/Preschool/ Kindergarten (6 weeks to 6 years) Nutritious and Delicious Meals Prepared On-Site Art & Music Appreciation Spanish, French and Mandarin Languages 8085 Oak Avenue Citrus Heights CA

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Secrets to Stepmom Success

By Elizabeth Delaney Most people in my life know I am proud stepmom. I talk about it openly; brag about my family on social media pages and at work, and am always happy to answer questions for those whose interest is peaked. It is one of the best experiences life has given me, but also one of the hardest.

What I don’t talk about frequently, if at all, are the challenges that come with taking on such an important role. Stepmom is a role where, in most cases, a woman is knowingly deciding to take a permanent second place. And who wants to talk about that?

Every day thousands of parents find themselves marrying someone new, instantly creating a new family for their children, whether they like it or not. Kids take this change on with little understanding as to how or why it happened, and are expected to handle it respectfully and maturely. In many ways, kids are extremely resilient and can absorb change way better than any adult can, but this isn’t the case for all.

The reality is that change is difficult no matter what the age and it impacts all members of the family, not just the child.

While my experience has been mostly positive, there have been some major lessons learned throughout the six years of being in my stepdaughter’s life. If anything, I hope my experiences can be helpful as you navigate your own journey

You cannot forget that it takes time (sometimes years) for all to adjust to a new normal.

as a stepmom. I understand that every experience is different, but if my advice produces any positive results in a blended family, then I believe it was worth it.

I have found that following these seven suggestions to “Successful Stepmomming” have resulted in positive results, and allow for our families to run as peacefully and happily as possible.

Be Patient. Trusted relationships are not formed in a day. Custody agreements are not written in a week. Emotions from a divorce do not go away in a few months, or even years.

Entering into a relationship with someone who has a child with someone else means that YOU are the foreign person coming in to an established family and it will take time for everyone to get used to you being a long term presence. It can difficult to see it this way, especially when you are experiencing new love with your partner and excited about all the changes in your own life.

Settle for Second.

You will always come second to mom, because you are not their mother. As much as you love, respect and care for the child, you can never forget this.

Make no mistake, this does not mean you cannot have a loving, respectful and meaningful lifelong relationship; but you do not have the same rights or privileges that their mother does.

This is true even if you have a loving, positive relationship with the child, he or she confides in you, or your family has more custodial rights then the other.

Once you get comfortable with this understanding, you will be able to build and grow your relationship with your stepchild, and possibly their mother. If mutual respect can be established, then it makes life much more enjoyable for everyone.

Practice Privacy. It is easy to vent to the world about your stepchild’s evil stepmother, or better yet, your husbands ex-wife. Many times there are very valid reasons to be angry or frustrated. As difficult as it may be, it is best to keep these discussions between you and your husband (or very close trusted friends) and that is it.

Divorce is a sensitive subject that many have experienced or have conflicting Stepmom continued on page 19 sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 17

C A M P

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18 APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

Stepmom continued from page 17

opinions on. If there is one thing I learned marrying a divorcee, people love to gossip about other people’s problems. While my husband dealt with custody in court, many formed their own opinions about our situation with limited details about what was really going on. It hurt my feelings and made a sensitive situation more difficult to deal with.

You would never want something negative that you vented about to define what others think of you as parents, or worse, how your stepchild views you.

Silence is Significant. Never, and I repeat NEVER speak negatively of your stepchild’s parent or household in front of them. Two households can be emotional at times but it is critical that you never allow the child to feel like they need to take sides. We all remember the age old anecdote, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all”. Kids are always listening.

Psychologytoday.com explains describes parental alienation is often a sign of a parent’s inability to separate from the couple conflict and focus on the needs of the child.

Create Traditions. Blended families mean sharing time with the child and the back and forth can be difficult on everyone. By adding some family tradi-

tion unique to your household, you can create memories and experiences that are treasured by all.

In my experience taking time to create traditions generate a certain type of excitement. Things as easy as “Root Beer Float” movie nights, “Living Room Camp Out” and picking a new dessert to bake each month are some of the most talked about days in our household.

Establish Communication. Kids know when parents disagree and are experts at manipulating them at times of weakness.

Add two sets of parents into the equation and this can cause a lot of confusion or disagreement. We all know how the telephone game ends up.

Let your stepchild’s mom know that you recognize her role as and are able and willing to partner with her in this parenting gig. Establishing a positive and open line of communication can do nothing but help you and your spouse co-parent effectively. You may be surprised with the pleasant reaction you will receive from this simple, but important gesture.

Value the Vows. Being a stepparent can test your marriage. Households may differ in opinion about what is currently happening with the child. There can be times where you partner may feel like he is in contention with both you and his ex-wife as you both give your opinions.

As difficult as it is, try to consider your husbands position and think about how you can support him and your stepchild through challenging decisions or discussions about the family. I have found that even stopping to remember and having this awareness can soften the discussions and bring us closer as a team.

Life happens fast, and it is not always easy. In challenging times, it is important to remember why you fell in love in the first place and why you decided to take on this role. A strong base is needed to hold up walls of the life you are building.

Don’t forget that you deserve some self-love for signing up for this gig. It is not easy, and often thankless. A parent is a critical role model in a child’s life no matter how you landed there and what you contribute matters, even if it does not always feel like it.

The truth is you are going to make a lot of mistakes. More than you thought you could ever make. You are not always going to say the right thing, or even do the right thing.

I was a stepmom before I became a mother myself, and having a son really made me reflect on the past years and how to be a better stepmom. I am grateful to be a presence in this child’s life and I only hope that she feels the same way about me one day.

Elizabeth lives in Sacramento with her husband, fourth-grade stepdaughter and toddler son. She maintains a full time career in Finance that has spanned 13 years. In her free time, she enjoys date nights with her husband, wine with her girlfriends and trips to Tahoe with her family. sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 19

C A M P COUNTRY DAY

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20 APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Summer Camps with Flair

C A M P

By Jan Pierce, M.Ed. Most of us remember summer camp. It was great: Rustic cabins, swimming in the lake, arts and crafts, songs around a campfire and capture the flag in the evenings.

It still sounds good to me.

But times have changed and lots of kids are more excited to plan a summer adventure around performance academies than attend a traditional summer camp. There are lots of options and while they are not inexpensive, they do offer wonderful opportunities for your kids. They can be week-long overnight experiences, or day camps only.

Here are some of the possibilities.

Photos Courtesy of: Sacramento Theatre Company, STC’s Summer Break Camp, SacTheatre.org and Edventure More, Camp EDMO, CampEDMO.org

Dance and Theater Camps: Dance and theater camps will focus every day on training classes and rehearsals with an eye to a final performance at the end of the camp. Theater offerings may include improvisation, comedy, costume and set design, prop-building, sound mixing, film making, musical theater or stage makeup.

Many theater camps offer two or three week options to maximize the quality of the final performances. Dance camps may begin their day programs with children as young as two years and offer ballet, tap and jazz, hip-hop, and modern dance courses ranging in difficulty from beginners to advanced courses. Again, a performance at the end of the course of study is usually the highlight of the camp.

Music Camps: For children interested in advancing their musical skills, or for those who just love to sing, there are tons of music camp options. Children may take private lessons from skilled

teachers, or learn to sing or play in ensembles. They can study band instruments, orchestra instruments or focus on just piano or violin. There are classes in music theory, sight-reading, songwriting or voice. A wide variety of musical experiences are available from rock and roll to classical. Music camps are great for honing skills or trying something brand new.

Clown/Circus Camps: Get ready for some fun at circus or clown camps. Kids learn such skills as plate-spinning, balloon-twisting, stilt-walking, scarf juggling or riding a unicycle. Or they can learn to be a clown as they create costumes, learn to apply clown makeup, and learn the gags and slapstick antics of being a clown. Final performances are the norm here as well.

Art Camps: There are lots of opportunities for kids to delve into art and art-related projects in summer art camps. Many of these are local and offer

day courses for children aged five and up. Others are destination camps that integrate art activities with traditional summer camp experiences. There may be theme-based art camps as well as a wide variety of art training in such skills as drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and clay sculpture, or origami.

Science/Technology Camps: STEM courses are all the rage today and well they should be in this age of technology. Courses in programming, coding, robotics, modeling/animation, video game design and team problem-solving will be available. Often STEM camps are designed around themes such as Minecraft, LEGOs or Star Wars and offer group challenges. The camps may be offered by your local children’s museums or science centers. Courses in marine science or biological studies may incorporate laboratory experiments while engineering courses Summer Camps continued on page 23 sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 21

C A M P

Baseball • Basketball Soccer • Softball Volleyball • Water Sports

22 APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

C A M P

Summer Camps continued from page 21

may emphasize inventions. Science, technology, engineering and math—get your kids in on the fun.

wilderness treks to survival hikes, scuba diving to whitewater rafting. What’s your pleasure?

Foreign Language Camps: If you aren’t taking a trip out of country this summer, you might want your kids to have the benefit of a language summer camp. They’ll be immersed in the language, cuisine and culture of another country while at camp. Native speakers will lead the activities as kids learn to sing songs, create skits and play games all designed to deepen their experience in a foreign language. Many language camps end with a special performance or celebration highlighting the learning accomplished.

Dude Ranches and Horse Camps: Your child will leave city life behind when attending a summer horse camp. Courses on animal care, roping, riding and vaulting will be given along with extended time to build a relationship with a horse, ride and care for it, and experience some of what it’s like to live on and run a ranch. Leadership, nature-based arts and crafts and swimming might round out the offerings.

Adventure Camps: No time for boredom in these summer camps. Everything from backpacking to rock climbing,

Sports Camps: We’re familiar with camps to improve skills in basic sports such as baseball, basketball, football and soccer. But there are many other choices.

How about gymnastics, archery, water-skiing, horseback riding, tennis, crew,

field hockey, volleyball or water polo?

This might be an opportunity to try a whole new sporting experience and find a sport to enjoy for life.

Miscellaneous Camps: It’s hard to categorize some of the camping experiences available to kids today. How about Social Skills camp, DJ camp, Extreme Sports camps, Wizards and Warriors Role Playing camp, or Rock and Roll Camp?

If you’re serious about planning a performance summer camp experience for your kids, do your research early. These camps tend to fill up early and there are specials on the costs if you apply early.

Visit SacramentoParent.com for a list of local camps to help you with your summer camp research.

Photos Courtesy of: Sacramento State Aquatic Center, Youth Camps, SacStateAquaticCenter.com/youth-programs/youth-camps.html

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at www.janpierce.net. sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 23

C A M P

Photos Courtesy of: National Academy of Athletics, All Sorts of Sports, NationalAcademyOfAthletics.com Girl Scout Resident Summer Camp, Camp Menzies, GirlScoutsHCC.org/en/outdoor/ about-outdoor.html Granite Arch Climbing Center, Summer Camp 2019, GraniteArch.com Vision Soccer Training, Soccer Skills Camp, Kinder Kickers Camp, and Specialized Soccer Camps, VisionsSoccerTraining. com Sierra Friends Center, Camp Woolman, Woolman.org/ camp-values

Rocknasium The Climbing Gym Climbing ziplining slacklining Rappelling and more! rocknasium.com 24 APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Ages 6-14 Weekly camps June 17 - August 23 Full Day $235 Half Day $125 $15 off repeat weeks

p Space Cam 530.757.2902

C A M P

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sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 25

Are You Ready?

Disaster Preparedness for Families with Special Needs

By Ashley Talmadge As the parent of a child with special needs, you’re good at anticipating and preparing for the unexpected. But are you ready for a large-scale emergency?

Would you have the resources you need if a power outage lasted several days, or if roads were impassable?

When it comes to emergency preparedness, families with special needs must take additional precautions. It may seem overwhelming at first, but being proactive will help keep your family safe.

Remember, preparedness doesn’t need to happen all at once. Follow these steps and take a few minutes each week to plan, add to your kit, and communicate with those who might care for your child during a disaster.

Make a Family Plan During a disaster, family members can easily become separated. By developing a plan and talking about it in advance, you ensure reunification will happen as quickly as possible.

Jessica Cappelletti, Preparedness Specialist with the Red Cross, says “It’s important to consider what the individual need is and incorporate it in your plan.”

Is there a parent who is usually close enough to pick up a child at school?

If not, which neighbor or friend could provide the specialized care a child might need? Also include contingencies for different types of emergencies. A fire or

26 APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

flood may necessitate evacuation, while a storm or chemical hazard may require sheltering in place. Where will you go in either case?

During a disaster, phone service may be inconsistent and it’s often easier to connect to a long distance, rather than local, number. Therefore, Cappelletti suggests that families “ask an out-of-town friend or relative be a point of contact.” All family members can check in with this person and provide status and location information.

Build Your Emergency Kit Ideally, families should build two types of emergency kits. A “go kit” (usually a backpack) contains supplies for at least three days, and will be taken by each family member in the event of an evacuation. A “home kit” (usually several large bins) contains items required for the whole family during a “shelter in place” event for up to two weeks.

Several basics—such as water, food, first aid and hygiene supplies, batteries, and flashlight—should be included in all kits. Other items may be recommended depending on the type of disaster most likely in your area, and your own family’s needs. Many online resources provide lists of kit necessities. (See sidebar and visit www.ready.gov/build-a-kit for examples.)

When your child has special needs, the following parts of your kit will require closer attention: Food. It may be difficult to find specific foods in the midst of a disaster. If your child is on a restricted diet, or has sensory issues that impact her desire to eat, be sure to stock your kit with nonperishable foods she can safely enjoy.

Medications. In addition to a 7-day backup supply of any necessary prescription medications, be sure to include over-the-counter items that your child regularly uses, such as melatonin or protein supplements. Include a medication list and copies of prescriptions.

Power backup. “A lot of medical equipment relies on power, so families who have special needs should consider a generator and subsequently a carbon monoxide alarm,” says Cappelletti. (A generator can be deadly when not used properly, so be sure to you know how to operate it.) Remaining connected and informed is essential for families with special needs, so it’s worthwhile to stock a variety of portable chargers (already charged) for phones and other devices.

Solar and battery-operated chargers are also available.

Adaptive equipment. Decide how your child will access any specialized items he uses for feeding, mobility, self-care, or communication.

Comfort items. If possible, include some duplicates of familiar toys, books, and other items your child uses to calm herself, including electronic activities.

Practice Drills Cappelletti notes that the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and expectations during an emergency can make any child anxious. The situation can be more challenging for a child who has mobility limitations, sensory issues, or who needs a predictable routine. “Children fear what is unknown,” says Cappelletti. “When drills are practiced, the family is getting equipped with confidence and the knowledge of what to do.”

Operate your smoke alarm, and rehearse your evacuation procedure in the dark.

Try sheltering in place for a couple hours with battery-operated devices instead of electric power. Visit your neighborhood fire station and introduce your child to a firefighter in full gear. (Children who are

not familiar with a firefighter’s uniform and equipment may hide from these first responders in an emergency.)

Expand Your Support Network In addition to staff at your child’s school or daycare facility, be sure there are other people who are familiar with your child’s routines, equipment, and any comforting measures that might be helpful. If possible, exchange keys with a trusted neighbor, let her know where supplies are stored (including important documents), and decide how you will contact each other if phone service is spotty or non-existent.

Know Your Community’s Disaster Plan In the aftermath of recent wildfires and flooding events, communities have developed disaster plans and are educating their citizens about preparedness. Contact your local emergency management office or the Red Cross to learn what’s happening in your community.

Notify local officials of your household’s needs in advance. This makes it easier for first responders to provide assistance quickly. Some communities offer a Special Needs Registry for this purpose.

And if you’re electricity-dependent, you can also register with your local electric company.

Get Involved!

Attend a class in Emergency Preparedness. If there isn’t a class scheduled in your community, your school’s PTA, church group, or other civic organization can arrange a presentation through the Red Cross. Your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) can give you information on becoming a member, or supporting their efforts.

As you and your neighbors become better equipped to deal with a disaster, the community (and your family) becomes safer and more resilient.

Ashley Talmadge is a freelance writer, mother of two boys, and a member of her Neighborhood Emergency Team (NET). Little by little, her family is becoming better prepared for an emergency.

sacramentoparent.com /special-needs-resources

for resources and articles

is now offering a full range of newborn hearing screening and diagnostic services.

CCHAT coordinates & refers as appropriate with physicians, other health professionals, school personnel and those involved in hearing aid fittings to ensure your infant’s total hearing healthcare needs are met. We inform referring physicians and professionals of audiologic evaluation results and recommendations as well as coordinate professional services as required.

Make outpatient appointments by calling 916-361-7290 www.cchatsacramento.org

sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 27

monday

Sometimes plans change, don’t forget to check the event’s website before you go!

wednesday

tuesday

1

2

3

Fish Hatchery Exploration

Little Namaste and Sing

Free First Wednesdays

9am at Nimbus Fish Hatche ry

3pm at Sierra 2 Center for the Arts & Community

9am at Sacramento Zoo

Tour the visitor’s center and fish-rearing ponds to learn about the Chinook salmon and steelhead, then walk to the American River to complete the experience. www.Wildlife.Ca.Gov/Fishing/ Hatcheries/Nimbus

Join a professional kid’s yoga instructor for yoga play and Kindermusik.

(Ages 4 to 10) www.Facebook.com/ littlenamasteandsing/

Children ages 2 to 11 are free with a paid adult on the first Wednesday of each month. www.SacZoo.org 1/2 Off Game Day All day at Dave & Buster’s

Play games at half-price all day long.

From paper flower crafts All Aboard for Story Time www.DaveAndBusters.com Teen-led literacy practice using stories and candy making classes, Join this world-class museum each and games. (Ages 3 to 6) 10 www.Placer.Ca.Gov for story time. Free with paid Pink: Beautiful Trauma World Tour to sweet nature outings Monday museum admission. (Ages 2 to 5) and story times, spring- www.CaliforniaRailroad.museum 9 Treat your teen to an awesome conToddler Time cert experience with Pink! time in our area brings an 8 www.Golden1Center.com A play-based learning experience that Story Time at the Station Preschool Playgroup abundance of blessings includes story time, a craft, singing and more. (Ages 2 to 5) members of the Rocklin Police and opportunities for all to Join Hands-on activities and discovery www.FairytaleTown.org Department for a spring-themed play. Held the second Wednesday of story time! be had.

Homeschool Day: Spring Sketch the month through May. (Ages 0 to 5) www.Facebook.com/ Super Reader Training Camp 4pm at Rocklin Library

11am at California State Railroad Museum

7:30pm at Golden 1 Center

10am at Fairytale Town

4pm at 4080 Rocklin Road

Events/1679780818790812/

15 Munchkin Monday 11am at Sky High Sports

Jump around with your little one for two hours at this indoor trampoline park on Mondays. (6 and under) https://Sac.SkyHighSports.com Homeschool Day, March 9th

22 Open Play 9:30am at BusyKidz, Folsom

Play in this hands-on learning space designed to look like a mini town, where the interactive exhibits foster children’s imaginations and social skills. www.BusyKidzFolsom.com

29 Children’s Book Week 10am at Fairytale Town

Celebrate Children’s Book week all week long with story times, activities, giveaways and more. www.FairytaleTown.org Candy Making Class, March 29th

Candy Making Class 4:30pm at Time & Space Roseville

Atlas Culinary Concepts will teach the basics of candy making, learn to make homemade taffy, chocolates, gummies and more. (Ages 9+) www.Facebook.com/ events/2294753014181796/

28 APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

10am at Roseville Utility Exploration Center

12pm at Crocker Art Museum

Kids will sketch at their own pace while an artist provides drawing instruction based on skill levels.

Pre-registration recommended. www.CrockerArt.org

16 Baby Loves Art 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum

A visually stimulating gallery walk designed for babies up to 18 months old. http://CrockerArt.org

23 Parent Tot Playtime 10am at Mike Shellito Indoor Pool

Children ages 6 and under are invited to swim in the warming pool. Toys provided. $5.00 per adult /child pair. www.Roseville.Ca.Us

30 Excursion Train Ride 11am at California State Railroad Museum

Hop aboard for a 45-minute train ride along the Sacramento River.

Tickets are purchased on a first-come, first-served basis. See website for the departure location. www.CaliforniaRailroad.Museum Open Play Art Exploration 9am at The Art Box

Explore the art studio on Tuesdays for $8. Dress for a mess. (Ages 8 and under) http://ArtBoxFairOaks.com

www.Roseville.Ca.Us/ UECPreschool

17 LEGO Club 4:30pm at Granite Bay Library

Let your imagination flow with other LEGO lovers. Bricks provided. www.Placer.Ca.Gov/4169/Events Modern Manners for Boys & Girls 1pm at Loomis Library & Community Learning Center

Kids will be introduced to table manners, social manners and manners to use at home. http://LoomisLibrary.org

24 Tinker Time 3pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum

Make, build, invent and solve engineering design challenges. Check website for fees. https://SacKids.org Homeschool Day Class: Sun Science 12pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum

Learn how is the sun’s energy is used on Earth and make a sun print to discover the power of sunlight. https://SacKids.org

thursday

sunday

saturday

friday

4

5

6

7

Story Time

After Dark

Kids Expo California

9:30am at Chick-fil-A, Pleasant Grove, Roseville

8pm at Sky High Sports

Aviation Career Education Day Career Expo 12pm at Aerospace Museum of California

Fun for the whole family including inflatables, reptile adventures, VIP princess tea parties, magic shows, crafts, games, food, live entertainment and more. www.SuperKidzExpo.com

Bring your kids to hear a story, make a craft and face paint. www.Facebook.com/pg/ mychickfila

11 Kids Day at the Capitol 10am at California State Capitol, West Lawn

Featuring guest speakers, live performances, activities for children and informative vendors with information about programs, services and resources that strengthen families. www.Facebook.com/ events/609731626116136/ Story Time 10am at Face in a Book

Visit this cute bookstore for a weekly story time with songs and fun. www.GetYourFaceInABook.com

18 Family Night 4pm at Sky High Sports

$40 for one hour of jump time for 4 people. This includes a large one-topping pizza and four waters. https://Sac.SkyHighSports.com

A cosmic night with a laser light show, party music, dodgeball and freestyle jumping on the trampolines. https://Sac.SkyHighSports.com Open Bounce 10am at BounceU of Rancho Cordova

Kids Expo California

Kids ages 7 and under will have a blast bouncing out their energy. www.BounceU.com/ Rancho-Cordova-ca

11am at Cal Expo

12

Kid’s Night Out: Missing Link Party

6pm at Color Me Mine, Rocklin Kids will watch a movie, paint, eat treats and play games. https://Rocklin.ColorMeMine.com Family Ice Skate Sessions 2pm & 7pm at Skatetown Ice Arena

Ice skate with other families that have small kids from 2-5pm and 7-10pm on Fridays. www.Skatetown.biz/ PublicSessionSchedule

19 Friday Flicks: “Incredibles 2” 7:30pm (or sunset) at Vernon Street Town Square

Story time for 3 to 5 year olds. www.Rocklin.Ca.Us/ programs-and-events

Watch a movie under the stars with your family as you gather together on lawn chairs with picnic food. This month’s feature movie is “Incredibles 2” (PG). www.Roseville.Ca.us

25

26

Story Time 11:30am at Rocklin Library

Story Time at the Zoo 10:30am at Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary

Hear and watch a story time featuring special animal puppets, then meet a live zoo animal up close. www.Facebook.com/ events/233359257564793/?event_ time_id=233359274231458

Learn about awe-inspiring careers in aviation, aerospace and STEM. Free admission for students ages 13 to 18. https://AerospaceCA.org

Family Roller Skate Night 7pm at Roller King

Roller skate the night away to fun tunes. www.RollerKingRoseville.com Open Bounce 10am at BounceU of Rancho Cordova

Kids ages 7 and under will have a blast bouncing out their energy. www.BounceU.com/ Rancho-Cordova-ca

Inflatables, reptile adventures, VIP princess tea parties, magic shows, crafts, games, food, live entertainment and more. www.SuperKidzExpo.com Kids Fun Zone 1pm at Southgate Plaza

Kids will make big bubble makers and battery-powered tiny dancers. www.Southgate-Plaza.com

13 Second Saturdays at DOCO: Easter Craft 10am at DOCO Sacramento

Make paper daffodil flowers with the Easter Bunny.

DOCOSacramento.com Superhero STEM Fair 1pm at El Dorado Hills Library

Hands-on activities and exploratory stations for all ages. www.ElDoradoLibrary.org Science Saturday 10:30am at Auburn Library

Investigate the world through handson science and math experiments. www.Placer.Ca.Gov

20 Hike Sacramento’s Largest Nature Preserve 9am at Deer Creek Hills Preserve

Explore the trails of Deer Creek Hills Preserve at your own pace. www.SacramentoValleyConservancy.org

27

11am at Cal Expo

Kids & Company Gallery Adventure 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum

Tour the gallery with a docent who makes learning about art fun for kids.

(Ages 5+) http://CrockerArt.org

14 Gifts from Mother Nature 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Make abalone necklaces at the center.

Then, stay to hike the awesome natural grounds. www.SacNatureCenter.net

21 Planetarium Show 1pm & 3pm at Powerhouse Science Center

Explore outer space during this educational planetarium show. Free with admission. https://PowerhouseSC.org

28 Powerhouse Science Center Bioblitz 10am at Powerhouse Science Center

Explore the campus around the museum for this short bioblitz. https://PowerhouseSC.org Historic Folsom’s Spring Arts and Crafts Fair 9am at Sutter Street

Walk Historic Folsom along Sutter Street, where you’ll find handmade gifts, live music from strolling musicians and street food from popular food trucks. www.HistoricFolsom.org

Kid’s Art Festival 10am at Fair Oaks Village Park

Make-and-take art stations, dance and music performances, an art show, food trucks and more. www.Forpd.org Star Wars Day at the Zoo 9am at Sacramento Zoo

For more events, visit our online calendar at sacramentoparent.com.

Live shows, hands-on crafts, Star Wars themed activitiesand characters. www.SacZoo.org sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 29

Hoppin’ Celebrations & Egg Hunts Community Easter Egg Hunt

April 6 at Johnson-Springview Park, 9am Rocklin’s free Easter egg hunt at the park. Bring a basket, the hunt starts at 9am. www.Eventa.us/amp/events/rocklin-ca/ free-community-easter-egg-hunt-1068383

Free Rockin' Easter Egg Hunt and Paint

April 6 at Madera Park, Citrus Heights, 11am Celebrate Easter with a free egg hunt at 11am sharp, then stay for crafts and rock painting. www.Facebook.com/events/340004716606798/

Spring @ Fruitridge Community Collaborative

April 6 at Fruit Ridge Elementary, Sacramento, 12pm An interactive event featuring—jump bike demos, yoga, gardening, crafts, cooking and more. The VSP eye clinic will be providing free eye exams to those that qualify. www.Facebook.com/events/496004630927779/

Easter Egg Express

April 6, 7, 13, 14 & 20 at Sacramento RiverTrain, 1pm Hop on board for a 2.5-hour experience including an Easter egg hunt, a ride on the rails, kid-friendly activities and a visit from the Easter Bunny. www.SacramentoRiverTrain.com

Free Photos with the Easter Bunny

April 6, 13 & 20 at Artfully Rooted Marketplace, Historic Folsom, 1pm Get your free digital photo with the Easter Bunny and shop for unique gifts for the home, yard, parties and more. www.ArtfullyRooted.com

Annual Spring Fling

April 7 at Palladio in Folsom, 1pm An annual event featuring performances, spring crafts, and pictures with the Easter Bunny. http://GoPalladio.com

Easter Eggstravaganza

April 12-14 at Funderland Amusement Park, Sacramento, 10am The Easter Bunny and Happy the Squirrel will be making visits throughout the day. Enjoy egg hunts, free arts & crafts, and amusement park rides, too. www.FunderlandPark.com

Easter Eggstravaganza

April 13 at El Dorado Hills Town Center, 10am This “egg-cellent” event is packed with fun—dancing, games, prizes, magic shows, face painting, visiting with the Bunny and the Town Center Egg Hunt, which begins at 10am Sharp, rain or shine. https://EDHTownCenter.com

30 APRIL 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Bunny Breakfast & Eggs Galore

April 13 at the Pat O’Brien Community Center, Sacramento, 8:30am Enjoy a yummy breakfast with the Easter Bunny and activities, including an egg hunt. (Breakfast includes eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, milk, juice and coffee.) www.SouthgateRecAndPark.net

Underwater Egg Hunt

April 13 at Pat O’Brien Community Center, Sacramento, 11am Kids 12 and under can participate in an underwater egg hunt in the swimming pool, then stay to swim. ($5 per child, children 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult) www.SouthgateRecAndPark.net

Breakfast with Bunny

April 17 at Fair Oaks Community Clubhouse, 9am Enjoy a continental breakfast, crafts and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Bring your own camera.

Purchase tickets in advance. www.Forpd.org

Easter Eggstravaganza

April 20 at Fair Oaks Park, 9am This “eggciting” Easter event includes egg hunts, pictures with the Easter Bunny, crafts, a petting zoo, the WOW Buss and more. www.Forpd.org

Spring Fling & Community Egg Hunt

April 20 at Freedom Park, North Highlands, 10am One of the largest local egg hunts in the area (for children under 12). Visitors over the age of 12 will be able to hunt for one of the three golden eggs (hidden throughout the park) to redeem for a prize.

Plus, games, activities, bounce houses and more! www.Facebook.com/events/994658157384463/

EGGstravaganZOO

April 20 at Sacramento Zoo, 9am Join zoo-goers in age-specific Easter egg hunts, stage shows, crafts, animal enrichments and chats with animal keepers. Kids receive goody bags. www.SacZoo.org

Egg-O-Rama and Pancake Breakfast

April 20 at Fulton – El Camino Recreation & Park District Office, 8am A pancake breakfast, classic egg hunts, carnival games, activities and a Bunny Battle Easter Egg Hunt. www.FECRPD.com/special-events/egg-o-rama/

Elevate Life 2019 Easter Carnival

April 20 at Elevate Life Church, 11am 10,000 Easter eggs, bounce houses, train rides, games, prizes and more. www.ElevateLifeChurch.com

Easter Egg Hunt

April 20 at El Dorado Hills Community Services District, 9am Activities include arts and crafts, a visit from the Easter Bunny and an egg hunt! Bring your own baskets. The hunt starts at 10am sharp. www.ElDoradoHillsCSD.org

West Park & Fiddyment Farm Easter Egg Hunt, Roseville

April 20 at Fred Festersen Park, Roseville, 11am Featuring egg hunts, bounce houses, family photos and prizes in every age group for those who find the golden egg. Register in advance. www.EventBrite.com/e/2nd-annual-westpark-fiddyment-farm-easter-egg-hunt-tickets55738331851?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Aqua Egg Hunt

April 20 at Harley-Davidson of Sacramento, 11am Grab your camera and ride over for free pictures with the Easter Bunny on his Harley-Davidson. www.facebook.com/events/761479570896881/

April 20 at El Dorado Hills Community Pool, 2pm Make a splash with the “aqua bunny” and enjoy this unique aquatic egg hunt where plastic eggs will float on the top and bottom of the pool. Eggs will be exchanged for goodies. www.ElDoradoHillsCSD.org

25th Annual Spring Eggstravaganza

Loomis Community Easter Egg Hunt

Free Pictures With The Easter Bunny

April 20 at Lembi Community Park, Folsom, 8am Start with the pancake breakfast, play carnival games, enjoy they entertainment, vendor displays and activities, and a giant egg hunt with over 25,000 eggs! (Egg hunts start at 10am sharp and are divided into age groups.) www.Folsom.Ca.Us/Parks/Cals/Default.asp

April 20 at H. Clarke Powers School, Loomis, 10am The egg hunt begins at noon sharp with thousands of eggs, free pictures with the Easter Bunny, bounce houses, games, food and booths. www.Facebook.com/events/382472052485337/

Spring Eggstravaganza

April 20 & 21 at Fairytale Town, 10am A weekend packed with egg hunts, prizes and spring themed crafts. Kids will redeem their eggs at Mr. McGregor’s Garden for a prize based on how many eggs they collect. www.FairytaleTown.org

Kingdom Kids 2019 Easter Carnival

April 21 at Calvary Christian Center East, Sacramento, 10:30am All ages will enjoy the games, candy and food as they celebrate Jesus. www.Eventbrite.com/e/kingdom-kids-2019-easter-carnival-tickets-57763751937

Spring Egg-stravaganza!

April 21 at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, 1:30pm Join us for a program that celebrates animals that hatch from eggs! Egg-xamine their nest and egg collections, then hit the trails in search of nests. www.SacNatureCenter.net

Easter Brunch & Egg Hunt

April 21 at Whitney Oaks Golf Club, Rocklin, 9am A delicious Easter brunch, followed by an Easter egg hunt. Reservations required. Egg hunts are at 10:30am and 12:30pm for children 12 and under with the purchase of brunch. www.WhitneyOaksGolf.com

Gifts From The Heart Of Elk Grove

Toys and Gifts Parties Classes

Come in for a visit, we may just be your new happy place!

9685 Elk Grove Florin Rd. 95624 (916) 714-0914 www.giftsfromtheheartofelkgrove.weebly.com

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calendar/shows

It’s always a good idea to check the website before you head out!

Cinderella

April 5-7 at Del Oro High School, Loomis The classic tale of Cinderella, performed by high school students. The perfect fit for little feet who want to experience the magical world of theater. If the slipper fits... www.dramacompany.org

Little Red Riding Hood

April 6-7, 13-14, 27-28 at City Theatre at Sacramento City College One day Little Red Riding Hood goes to visit her granny. Who will she meet in the woods? Watch and find out! www.CityTheatre.net

Honk! Jr.

April 5-13, presented by CYT at Auburn Grace Community Church Ugly looks different from his duckling brothers and sisters and the animals on the farm are quick to point this out, despite his mother’s protective flapping. Feeling down about himself, Ugly goes on an adventure of self-discovery (all while unknowingly outwitting a hungry Cat). Along the way, he meets a whole flock of unique characters and finds out being different is not a bad thing to be. www.CYTsacramento.org/shows

Legally Blonde - The Musical

April 5-7 at Harris Center Based on the beloved movie, Legally Blonde, this musical journey follows the life of Elle Woods as she goes through college and into law school.

When Elle’s boyfriend breaks up with her and leaves for Harvard Law School, Elle tries to win him back by getting into Harvard as well. www.HarrisCenter.net

Beauty and the Beast

April 13 at Harris Center, Three Stages at Folsom Lake College The Panto Company USA presents Beauty and the Beast in a lovable performance suited for children ages 3 to 10 years old. There will be laughter, music and beautiful costumes. www.HarrisCenter.net

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April 6, 7, 13 & 14 at Fairytale Town The Fairytale Town Troupers kick off the season with the happy tale of the three bears, who live in a cozy cottage in the middle of a forest. Goldilocks happens upon their home and surprises the bears, who eventually decide to help her until she can be reunited with her family again. www.FairytaleTown.org

Treasure Island Exclusive Performance

April 4 at Jessup Theatre, Rocklin You’re invited to an exclusive performance of Treasure Island with premiere seating, complimentary appetizers, desserts and mocktails. You will also have the opportunity to meet the talented members of the cast and the director. https://Jessup.Edu/2019/01/treasure-islandexclusive-preview-performance/

Paw Patrol Live!

April 30 at The Community Center Theater Mayor Goodway is getting ready to celebrate Pirate Day in Adventure Bay. When Ryder and his team of pirate pups discover a secret pirate treasure map in a mysterious cavern, the PAW Patrol set out over land and sea to find the treasure for Mayor Goodway’s celebration. www.PawPatrolLive.com

Robin Hood

Through April 13th at Chatauqua Playhouse The famous Robin Hood steals from the rich to give to the poor while outwitting the evil Sheriff of Nottingham. A show full of adventure and intrigue. www.CPlayhouse.org/children-s-season.html

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Charlotte’s Web

Through April 14th at B Street Theatre When Wilbur the pig is befriended by a small spider named Charlotte, the friendship sets off a series of events that turn Wilbur from the runt of his litter to “Some Pig.” https://BStreetTheatre.org

For What Purpose - Easter Drama Performance

April 19-21 at The Rock Church, Elk Grove This musical production is touted as one of the largest live Easter productions in Northern California. The audience will travel back in time to the streets of Jerusalem with Jesus and the disciples and witness how He left an eternal mark.

The production includes theatrical lighting, special effects, live music and live animals. No children are allowed under the age of 4 years old. http://ForWhatPurpose.net

Come ov e & play! r April 6, 7, 13 & 14 The Fairytale Town Troupers: Goldilocks and the Three Bears April 20 & 21 Spring Eggstravaganza Multiple egg hunts!

April 29 - May 5 Children’s Book Week

Daily activities and a book fair!

3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento (916) 808-5233

For more programs and events, visit fairytaletown.org

JOIN US FOR SESQUICENTENNIAL COMMUNITY DAY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2019

SEE 150 YEARS OF THE TRANSCONTINENTAL RAILROAD COME TO LIFE Enjoy new exhibits at the California State Railroad Museum along with special activities, free train rides and more throughout Old Sacramento Waterfront.

Free outdoor festivities begin at 10 a.m. railroad150.org #railroad150 125 “I” Street, Old Sacramento, CA 916-323-9280 sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2019 33

Grab the Popcorn!

Special Needs Screenings 11am at Studio Movie Grill, Rocklin

April is National Autism Awareness Month and we love that Greater Sacramento has many events and activities for kids on the spectrum.

Check out this month’s sensory friendly movie screenings.

Movies are shown with the lights up and the volume lowered and children are free to move around, talk, or even dance in the aisles during the movie. The screenings are free for children with special needs and their siblings (parental guidance suggested, adult tickets are available at before-noon price).

APR 6: DUMBO APR 13: SHAZAM!

www.StudioMovieGrill.com/movie/film-series/special-needs-screenings

Sensory Friendly Family Movies

These screenings are designed for kids with autism and/or sensory disorders, toddlers and preschoolers are welcome, too. Enjoy healthy snacks, the lights will be slightly up, the sound will be slightly down, and kids don't need to remain seated while enjoying the movie. There will be lots of fidget toys, too!

APR 13: TOY STORY

10:15am-12pm at Carmichael Library

APR 20: RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET

2-4pm at Belle Cooledge Library

APR 27: THE NUTCRACKER AND THE FOUR REALMS

2-4pm at Southgate Community Library www.SacLibrary.org

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CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 26 YEARS

Pick up your free copy at one of over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento, or read it online at

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Did you know Sacramento Parent readers win free stuff each month? We love giveaways and so we’ve made it quick and easy to enter. The goodies we round up are sure to brighten your day and your odds are great...so, what are you waiting for?

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Award Winning Balloon Artist!!!

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