Our San Diego
Publisher’s Letter
Schools, Afterschool Programs and Valentine’s Day As children turn 4 years old, many parents start looking
into kindergarten programs. It’s a common process for parents, so don’t lose sleep over it. What do you look for in a kindergarten program? Read the article on page 18 for tips, then check out our school advertisers in this issue starting on page 16. Find more information at www.SanDiegoFamily.com. It’s been proven that kids who are in extracurricular activities do better in school. There are lots of clubs to join! Get ideas on how to choose on page 22. Valentine’s Day reminds us to love everyone. We can work on that every day of the year. There are many ways to keep your family close. Check out page 24. I like the idea of cooking together. Everyone gets a part in making a meal and everyone is included in conversation — makes it fun! While the family is together, have the kids plan another meal and decide what each family member will do. Another idea is to have Dad and Mom take the kids out on individual “dates.” Find out why one-on-one time with no interruptions from siblings is so important on page 26. Don’t forget to spend time with your spouse. Family Magazine shares 25 affordable date night ideas on page 30.
sharon@sandiegofamily.com
Main Office: 1475 Sixth Avenue, Fifth Floor, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: 619-685-6970 Fax: 619-685-6978 E-mail: family@SanDiegoFamily.com Mission Statement To enhance the quality of life for San Diego County families by providing information and resources that support the importance and pleasure of parenting.
12 • SanDiegofamily.com • February 2019
Families
There’s so much to celebrate in February (Valentine’s Day, Black History Month, Chinese New Year and more), but what do members of our editorial team seem to be most excited about? Surprise— it’s Random Acts of Kindness Day on Feb. 17 (and week Feb. 18-22)! Jody Lee Cates, freelance writer I love how Random Acts of Kindness Week follows so closely after all the personal goal setting and resolutions of the New Year. It’s like switching the camera lens from a selfie to a group shot. Shifting the focus means more smiles for everyone.
Cherie Gough, freelance writer We love Random Acts of Kindness Week! It’s fun to connect with neighbors, do something extra special for friends and family, show kindness to strangers, and teach my kids that going out of your way to help others feels good.
Adrienne Sigeti, editorial assistant When it comes to random acts of kindness, I think the simpler, the better. Small but meaningful gestures like leaving treats for a postal worker, writing an email to a loved one or calling a neighbor just to check in can make someone’s day brighter. Lisa Gipson, managing editor Being kind never gets old for the giver or receiver — make it a year-round family focus. One of my favorite articles is “Make the World a Better Place: 41 Random Acts of Kindness.” It includes so many fun and easy ideas for kids and families. Find it at www.SanDiegoFamily.com.