San Joaquin Parents November/December 2017

A Magazine for In-The-Know Parents

Parents INSIDE: The Hot List: Perfect Gifts for SJ Kids Family Fun Night At Home Family Vacation: Escape to Lake Tahoe Theatre for Families

NOV/DEC 2017 SANJOAQUINMAGAZINE.COM

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209.369.1041

YOGI BEAR and all related characters and elements © & ™ Hanna-Barbera. (s18)

CAROLING & MUCH MORE!

2017 is coming to an end Now’s the time to use your child’s dental Health benefits You’ve been contributing all year to your child’s dental health benefits, and if you don’t use this money by the end of the year, it will be lost.

Our services: •

Preventive care

Take advantage of your benefits, especially if your child has not received two professional cleanings or if you’ve been putting off diagnosed treatment.

•

Dental X-rays

•

Orthodontics

•

Cleanings

We have fun and convenient appointments available for your child that will ensure a lifetime of healthy, giggly smiles.

Give us a call to schedule today!

•

Sedation dentistry using nitrous oxide

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Brushing and flossing guidance

Schedule today!

S TO C K TO N / LO D I / T R A C Y / M A N T EC A / P L E A S A N TO N / E L K G R OV E

NOV / DEC 2017

NOV/DEC 2017 PUBLISHER | EDITOR

Tony Zoccoli MANAGING EDITOR

Lindsey Rodrian SECTION EDITOR

Nora Heston Tarte GRAPHIC DESIGNER

David Martinez / Lucas Zoccoli MARKETING ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Neelam Patel ADVERTISING

Michelle Cox REGULAR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Copper Williams, Heather Isbill Faith Lewis PHOTOGRAPHY

Dan Hood

CONTENTS

DISTRIBUTION SERVICES

4

Rebecca Ristrim

CONTACT US EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING OFFICES

6.

Make Holiday Memories

Five ways to build lasting family traditions this season.

6.

Run Against Hunger

Gather your brood and walk or run to feed those less fortunate at the 13th annual event on Thanksgiving morning.

20.

Theatre for Families

Make theatre your family’s next tradition. For children, attending live performances at a young age is very beneficial emotionally, mentally, and socially!

16.

Family Vacation:

It’s a parental duty that pays off in the long run—learn more for each age group.

10. Family Fun Night At Home

Out There

When dreary weather has you confined indoors, get creative. Try out some of these family activities to turn winter boredom into fun, fun, fun!

14.

The Hot List

The Perfect Gifts for San Joaquin Kids

THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of Inside Magazines Publishing Company. © 2016 Inside Magazines Publishing Co.

Escape to Lake Tahoe

Lucky for San Joaquinians, one of the best winter destinations is just a short drive away. Head to Lake Tahoe where winter activities abound— from skiing and snowboarding to dog sledding and more.

8.

Raise Thankful Kids

San Joaquin Parents Magazine published bi-monthly by San Joaquin Magazine 318 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240 Phone: (209) 833-9989 www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com

22.

It’s a Jungle

Lodi Hospital Makes Emergencies More Manageable

26.

Agenda 28.

Last Word

CONNECT I TWEET I READ KEEPING THE CENTRAL VALLEY CONNECTED

26

OPEN

\Dec. 16th thru Jan. 6th, 2018

Dell’Osso Family Farm Presents...

Holidays

SNOW TUBE Mountain Featuring Snow Tubing Get your tickets at

www.HolidaysOnTheFarm.com

SANTA’S VILLAGE

Photos with Santa in the Country Store

ZIP LINES

on the

Farm

w w w.DellOssoFamilyFarm.com Imagine a place where it snows every day. A place where you can pack up the family and enjoy the snow just minutes away, and feel the spirit of Christmas. Your children will giggle, their eyes will light up, and you can enjoy the Magical FUN of Snow Play.... Welcome to Holidays on the Farm.

Visit the newest mountain in the Valley - Snow Mountain!

A 300’ long Snow Tubing Hill All day Open Air Ice Skating

300’ long ride

ICE SKATING Outdoor Ice Skating Rink

Dell’Osso Farm, Lathrop, CA Off I-5 (Take Mossdale or Manthey Rd Exit)

Visit HolidaysOnTheFarm.com for more information and for reservations.

HIGHLIGHTS

Make Holiday

MEMORIES  BY FAITH LEWIS

Whether you’re looking to keep the kiddos entertained or start a lasting family tradition, here are five ideas to help you kick off the holidays.

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

Forget the cheap chocolate calendars and opt for a homemade Christmas countdown. Glue 24 plastic cups in a triangle on poster board, fill them with holiday knickknacks or notes from Santa, and cover the tops with green tissue paper. Viola! You have yourself a Christmas tree countdown.

PLANTING PEPPERMINT

Turn that green thumb red and white as you help the kids plant “peppermint seeds” – AKA peppermint candies.

They’ll love discovering it grew after Santa’s sneaky helpers replace it periodically with a mini and then a full-sized candy cane.

A TREE OF THEIR OWN

Distract the tots from your tastefully tinseled tree by giving them one of their own to decorate again and again. Simply glue green felt to a traffic cone and cut out some colorful felt ornaments to go with it. The best part? There’s no mess! Felt sticks to felt.

SANTA’S SWEETS

Make Santa’s midnight snack even sweeter by displaying those Christmas cookies on a plate artfully decorated at the Mud Mill in Lodi. It takes 7-10 days for the pottery to be fired, so be sure to fit this tradition-in-the-making in early.

THE NUTCRACKER

Tracing its origin all the way back to the early 1800s, it isn’t hard to imagine this Christmas classic finding a place in your family traditions. Hutchins Street Square will be hosting special performances of the classic ballet on December 16 at 6 and 7.

RUN

Against

HUNGER  BY FAITH LEWIS

The holiday season has long since focused on family traditions and a full table, so this Thanksgiving morning, the Stockton Emergency Food Bank invites you to make filling someone else’s table a new family tradition at the 13th Annual Run and Walk Against Hunger.

Children nine-years-old and younger can hit the ground running at 8 AM in the Kids ¼ Mile Run, while mom and dad warm up to take the 5K Run/Walk at their own pace. Or, if you’re looking to offset Thanksgiving dinner calories, opt for the 10K Run, scheduled to begin at 8:30 AM. If your holiday travels take you away from Stockton, you can still participate as a Run & Walk Against Hunger Virtual Runner by logging those miles wherever you are!

Registration is now available online or you can register the day of the race, starting at 6:30 AM. FOR MORE INFORMATION: ANNUAL RUN AND WALK AGAINST HUNGER Event Location: Stockton Ports Banner Island Ballpark 404 W. Fremont Street, Stockton RAWAH@stocktonfoodbank.org RunAgainstHunger.org

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

NOV/DEC | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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DO GOODERS

RAISE Thankful KIDS  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

Raise good humans—that’s the goal. Kids can start learning how to express gratefulness at a very young age, with a little guidance from parents.

AGE 1+ Integrate thankful

vocabulary young.

The first steps to teaching kids how to be thankful are using the words themselves.

Even before a child is speaking, sign language can be used to teach words such as thank you and please.

AGE 10+ AGE 12+ Encourage kids to make small gestures Encourage kids to on their own. Ideas include cleaning out their own closet and bagging items that no longer fit, packing old purses or bags with personal care items and handing them to homeless people they cross (with adult supervision), or bringing a worthwhile project to the classroom, such as adopting a family for Christmas to raise money and shop for.

start their own initiative. Choose a cause and organize the efforts, from fundraising to implementation.

AGE 3+ Teach children to give to others. Simple

conversations explaining how some kids do not have toys to play with, books to read, or clean clothes to wear is a good introduction to helping others. Have toddlers and preschoolers help bag up old toys and too-small clothes to donate to a local organization. To get the most out of the lesson, bring children along for the drop-off.

AGE 3+ Teach kids the value of money. As much

as you explain treating items with care because replacement costs money (i.e. don’t jump on the couch! A new one costs too much money!) kids won’t understand if they don’t know how difficult making money can be. Pay small amounts for chores around the house. A toddler can feed the dog for a quarter or bring laundry to the laundry room for ten cents. Older children can make more mowing the lawn and washing dishes. Next time your kid asks for a coveted new item, tell them to spend their own money on it unless they want to wait until a birthday or Christmas.

AGES 6+ Volunteer. As much as you tell children

about the discrepancies between families, there is nothing more powerful than showing them. Sign up for quality parent-child time at a local soup kitchen, participate during a food drive, or take part in a fundraiser that cares for those less fortunate.

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

LOCAL PLACES TO START: WOMEN’S CENTER OF SAN JOAQUIN LOCATIONS IN STOCKTON & LODI 209-941-2611, Womenscenteryfs.org

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK 704 Industrial Park Dr. Manteca, 209-239-2091 Localfoodbank.org SALVATION ARMY Multiple locations Salvationarmyusa.org

THE MCHENRY HOUSE 739 A St, Tracy (209) 835-2328 Mchenryhousetracy.org CASE FOR KIDS 1852 W. 11th St., #134 Tracy, Caseforkids.org

Annunciation School Annunciation School Learning | Serving | Achieving

| Serving | Achieving 1110 N. LincolnLearning Street | Stockton, CA 95203 | (209) 444-4000

Celebrating 61 years of teaching academic excellence and faith based values • K (full day) - 8th Grade • Fully accredited by WASC and WCEA • Graduates are active Christians, quality academic producers, effective communicators, and problem solvers.

• Progressive and comprehensive curriculum includes science lab, in-class Chromebooks and iPads, performing arts, and many enrichment activities throughout the year

A Professional Speech-Language Pathology Corporation

Flex Club: A Social Skills Training Group Ages 5-8 & 11-13

• The Annunciation community has long-standing, generational ties and a welcoming, supportive "family" atmosphere

The Gift of Speech offers a wide range of clinical speech and language services for both pediatric and adult populations. Our mission is to provide exceptional speech-language services and to offer fair and appropriate options for our clients.

1110 N. Lincoln St. • Stockton, CA • 209.444.4000 Visit our website for more information:

3031 W. March Ln. • Ste. 117 South • Stockton • 209.952.2588

www.annunciation-school.org

Visit our website for application and detailed information: giftofspeechinc.com

Opening Soon. December 20

By Dr. Ronaldo Opinga, DMD

Kids love us. Parents trust us.

Bethel Kids Dental currently offers a full range of general dentistry services for kids under the age of 18.

We are one of the few dental offices for kids that accept most dental insurances including all PPOs and Denti-Cal. For our patients’ convenience, we also offer payment plans through Care Credit.

FREE EXAM AND X-RAY FOR NEW PATIENTS. Restrictions may apply.

531 W. Kettleman Lane Lodi, CA 95240

Tel: 209-400-2018 | Fax: 209-400-2032 Email: info@bethelkidsdental.com | www.BethelKidsDental.com @BethelKidsDental

NOV/DEC | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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NOTEWORTHY

FAMILY FUN

NIGHT at HOME  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

There’s no need to leave the house to have fun with your family members. When dreary weather has you confined indoors, get creative.

Try out some of these family activities to turn winter boredom into fun, fun, fun!

PLAY-AT-HOME LASER TAG

Love playing rounds of laser tag at the arcade? Set up a game at home. Drop a set of Kidzlane laser guns into your Amazon shopping cart and store them away for the next rainy day. Play in teams or oneon-one with guns that vibrate every time an opponent shoots it. Up the ante by placing a bet—like winner gets to choose the next movie!

CAMP-IN

For kids who love the outdoors, winter can feel like a long stretch of rainy days

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

with no chance for fresh air. So what do you do? Go camping without leaving the house! Set up the tent, “roast” some marshmallows, and put the electronics away for the night. Gather around the fireplace for spooky stories before slipping into sleeping bags. Best part?

You won’t get cold!

GET CRAFTY

Trying new activities as a family is one way to build stronger bonds with those closest to you. Ever wondered how people make candles? Buy the supplies—wax, wicks, glass containers, and essential oils—and set up a work area. Kids will love to make something useful, or even to be given as gifts during the holidays!

HAVE A MOVIE NIGHT

Take movie night up a notch by taking it beyond a DVD in the Blu-Ray player.

Stock up on microwave popcorn and movie theatre snack boxes (found in the Target dollar section) to whip out for movie night. Play a game of rock-paperscissor for the movie pick and then pop out the couch bed or build a family fort to get cozy in while you watch.

TURN ON THE OVEN!

Kids who are taught to cook early in life are more likely to continue the habit into adulthood. Instead of ordering out, make a meal at home as a family. DIY pizza is a popular pick, especially if each family member gets to make their own personalsized pie, including choosing the toppings. Want to add a dose of holiday magic to the mix? Follow up dinner with holiday-shaped sugar cookies.

JOIN US FOR FUN ART ACTIVITIES & PROJECTS

Preschool Full Time DayCare

November 11 | Take Me Out to the Ballgame Be inspired by our exhibit featuring baseball photos and memorabilia to create your own pennant!

Infant Care, Preschool, Pre-K & After School Full Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks Served Daily Conveniently located near March Lane & Pacific Ave. in Stockton

December 9 | Holidays at the Haggin

Create holiday-themed crafts to decorate your home!

209.956.5437

1:30 - 3 pm | 209.940.6300 No Reservations Required Children Under 10 FREE Regular Adult Admission All Materials Provided

4453 Precissi Lane, Stockton

Visit us @ www.WriteStartLearningCenter.net WriteStart is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

License No. 393620552

HAGGINMUSEUM.ORG

SERVICES PROVIDED:

• Comprehensive Dental Exam Cleanings and Restorations for Children and those with special needs • Preventative Therapies to Reduce Cavities • Minimally Invasive Dentistry • Digital Radiography • Nitrous Oxide Anxiolysis • Sedation Services with an Anesthesiologist, in-office and in an OR setting • School Outreach and Education

CALL US TODAY!

Anisha Ranchhod, DDS, MSD Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

209.333.0374

1300 W. Lodi Ave., Ste. M • Lodi • www.LodiDDS.com

NOV/DEC | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

11

XTRA CURRICULAR

BIRTHDAYS

&BEYOND  BY FAITH LEWIS

Put away the piñatas and bid farewell to balloon animals, because birthdays just got better. After hosting over 5,000 birthday parties— and being crowned ‘Best of San Joaquin’ nearly a dozen times—Zap Zone Laser Tag in Stockton is an interactive way to celebrate.

Paul Clark was inspired to create Zap Zone after being invited to a laser tag birthday party in Modesto. Hoping to create a local space for families to come together, Zap Zone opened its doors in 2009 after two years of planning. Paul’s wife, Karli Clark, soon joined him as the general manager.

“We’ve both lived in Stockton our entire lives,” Karli says. “We’ve seen Golfland come and go and we’ve seen Hammer Skate come and go. We wanted to give kids something to do in Stockton. And not only the kids, but adults too. We try to cater to the whole family, and get people out to do things together.”

Zap Zone welcomes walk-in customers for laser tag sessions and offers all night lock-in events. In addition to the largest laser tag arena in the state (third largest in the country, according to Karli) Zap

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

Zone also has an arcade, bounce houses, and snack bar (that serves beer, too!).

Karli says Zap Zone stands out in many ways, namely in the laser tag equipment itself. Instead of offering one or two modes like many laser tag arenas, Zap Zone has a variety of game modes. These include the popular Spy Mode that allows players

to temporarily change the colors of their vest to sneak up on an unsuspecting opponent.

But what they have become best known for is their no-stress birthday parties.

“We’re a family owned business and we want you to feel like family,” Karli says of why it’s so important that birthday parties at Zap Zone take pressure off parents. “We try to make them feel as at home as possible.”

The birthday packages offer a choice of two to four sessions of laser tag in the two-story laser tag arena, a private party room, drinks for the players, and a return pass for the birthday boy or girl.

The icing on the cake? Parents don’t have to worry about the logistics of hosting a party. Zap Zone staff serves the food and drinks, keeps a gift log, and handles party clean up.

This gives guests and hosts alike the opportunity to enjoy themselves!

BOOK YOUR NEXT BIRTHDAY: ZapsZone.com

Where love meets learning!

NOW ENROLLING!

Loving Kids Academy Preschool Program is now accepting current and fall enrollment for children ages 2-6!

(209) 425-1543 | LovingKidsAcademy@gmail.com LovingKidsAcademy.com

ABOUT US We founded Loving Kids Academy to serve the families of Stockton, including those with special needs.

Staffed by some of the most talented and experienced teachers and education professionals.

GENERAL INFORMATION Loving Kids Academy is open Monday to Friday from 7am - 6pm. We offer full or half days on full or half-time schedule.

University Park 1004 N. Grant St. Stockton, Ca. 95202

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 BIRTHDAY PARTY SPOT

Stay connected with us!

Loving Kids Academy_SJMParents_May17_QP.indd 1

4/10/2017 3:22:57 PM

THE PLACE TO PLAY & THROW PARTIES...NOT TANTRUMS

312 N. HAM LANE • LODI • 209.224.8684 GINGERBUGSLODI.COM

NOV/DEC | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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TRENDING

THE

Hot List

THE PERFECT GIFTS FOR SAN JOAQUIN KIDS

Stumped on what to get the kids on your holiday list?

We’ve rounded up the hottest picks of 2017 with everything from Christmas must haves to local treasures.

TODDLERS/ PRESCHOOLERS THE NEW TEDDY RUXPIN BEAR

He’s back, baby! This year’s most coveted toy is a refresh from the 1980s, a lovable, story-telling bear named Teddy, Teddy Ruxpin, that is. The 2017 version is updated to match the technology of the times—i.e. no more cassette tapes for Teddy! Ages 2 and up. Available at most major retailers.

SWEET CHEEKS BABY GOODS

No need to dress your kid in clothes half the class will have! Sweet Cheeks is a line of handmade clothing created right here in Stockton! The collection includes pants, bibs, and headbands in unique prints for ages newborn to five. Ages 0-5. Available NEW at Caterpillar Children’s Boutique.

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

SOGGY DOGGY BOARD GAME

For kids who love pets and water play, the Soggy Doggy Board Games is the ultimate holiday gift! During play, participants make their way around the board while soggy doggy gets a bath. But beware when soggy doggy shakes. Anyone who gets wet, goes back to the beginning. Ages 4 and up. Available at most major retailers.

DANCE CODE BELLE

There’s never been an easier way to combine your child’s love of princesses with their passion for

STEM. With this doll, children learn basic programming techniques to make Belle dance. Ages 3 and up.

Available at most major retailers.

MELISSA & DOUG STAR DINER RESTAURANT

A step up from the standard play kitchen, this Melissa and Doug toy features a kitchen on one side and a 1950s-style diner booth on the back (complete with mini-jukebox) so kids can play chef or customer. Ages 3 and up. Available at most major retailers.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TO MIDDLE SCHOOL SPEAK OUT! KIDS VS. PARENTS

Family game night is getting an upgrade!

Hasbro’s popular Speak Out game, which forces participants to wear a silly mouth guard while trying to say different phrases, now has a Kids vs. Parents version. For ages 8 and up. Available at most major retailers.

XBOX ONE X

Xbox One X is the newest console to hit stores.

It’s faster, newer, and boasts better graphics than its predecessors. Available at most major retailers.

ALL AGES ANNUAL PASS TO THE STOCKTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Looking for a gift that keeps on giving? An annual pass to the beloved Stockton Children’s Museum is the way to go. It’s the perfect gift for the kid who has everything, and parents will be pleased it doesn’t add to the growing pile of toys at home. Pick up an individual membership for one kid and one adult for $60, a general membership for four individuals at $95, or a reciprocal membership, which allows unlimited admission for up to six, plus added perks, at $150. All ages. Available at Stockton Children’s Museum.

THE HAGGIN MUSEUM MEMBERSHIP POKEMON TRADING CARDS/ BOOSTER PACKS

Kids can’t get enough Pokemon! Every few months a new set is launched offering new cards for Pokemon game players and collectors. The Sun & Moon Burning Shadows Booster Pack is flying off the shelves at Comic Grapevine in Lodi. Ages 6 and up. Available at Comic Grapevine.

Gift a membership to the Haggin Museum. Not only do memberships help fund the museum (which recently underwent its largest transformation to date) but families will get to enjoy free admission every day of the year.

The cost is just $55 for a yearlong pass that admits all immediate family members, plus perks. All ages. Available at The Haggin Museum.

MOVIE TICKETS

Give a child an experience instead of a present with movie tickets to the closest theater. Gift cards can be purchased in exact amounts to cover tickets and tax for a child and a friend. Bonus points if you add cash for popcorn! All ages.

Available at area movie theaters.

PETSIES

Is your child’s pet their best friend?

Did a furry family member recently pass away? Whether you’re looking to commemorate a pet in the ultimate way or simply want to give your child a cuddly keepsake to provide comfort when they are away from home, Petsies has the answer—a stuffed animal custom created to look just like your pet. All ages. Available online at Petsies.com.

ROLLER COASTER CHALLENGE LOGIC & BUILDING GAME

Future architects draw challenge cards and build the roller coasters in question using provided pieces. Ages 6 and up. Available at most major retailers.

LEGO BOOST CREATIVE TOOLBOX

Is your child tech-savvy? Take Lego play up a notch with this robotic creation. Over 840 LEGO pieces, a move hub, and an interactive motor make play opportunities endless. Ages 7-12. Available at most major retailers.

DOG MAN: THE EPIC COLLECTION

From the creator of Captain Underpants comes Dog Man! It’s a trilogy of silly stories for kids available in a boxed collection. Ages 7 and up.

Available at most major retailers.

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Lake T FAMILY VACATION

ESCAPE TO:

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Tahoe  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

The holiday season gets busy, but finding time to escape as a family is important. Lucky for San Joaquinians, one of

the best winter destinations is just a short drive away. Head to Lake Tahoe where winter activities abound—from skiing and snowboarding to dog sledding and more.

sports. Aptly named Playland, it’s here that families can go sliding down mountains in oversized snow tubes. If the snow isn’t packed in enough, faux snow is brought in to keep the park running. For older kids, Boreal is one of the few places you can go night skiing. Hansen’s Resort in South Lake offers tubing, too!

Snow Fun

Heavenly Village

Skiing and snowboarding draw big crowds to Tahoe’s many mountain resorts, but they aren’t the only activities to keep families busy in the snow.

Snow Tubing

Boreal is a good family-friendly place to enjoy the snow, especially if kids aren’t big into snow

Mark your calendars for opening day at Heavenly Village—Nov. 17. Here, families enjoy the scenic gondola ride where they can stop at the observation deck, more than 9,000 feet in the air, to catch views of the snow-covered mountains that surround.

Après ski, the village offers cozy spots to stop for grub, a movie theater to warm up in, and outdoor miniature golf for those willing to brave the cold. A small toyshop sits near the miniature

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DITCH the

KIDS–

JUST FOR

A BIT

Some of Tahoe’s biggest resorts offer another benefit for families traveling with kids. Hit the slopes, or just sneak away for a while, while kids take part in a day care or kids club on site. After all, quality husband-wife time is just as important as family time.

HEAVENLY

golf play area, where kids can browse treasures to take home.

Side note: When you ski here, you can ride from California to Nevada and back again.

Mt. Rose

Head to Tahoe Meadows for an afternoon of sledding. Located on Mt. Rose, just outside of Tahoe, it’s the perfect place for families with young kids, or catering to a variety of ages. You can moonlight snowshoe at the same place, with great views of North Shore.

DID YOU

KNOW?

Family vacations hold hidden benefits for kids. It’s a time to bond away from the stressors of everyday life, and winter breaks from school create the perfect opportunity to get away from it all. Many studies have linked family vacations to long-lasting happiness in kids, as well as better stress regulation, improved concentration, good planning skills, and better overall physical and mental health.

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

From six weeks old to six years old, kids can attend the facility’s daycare program.

Kids ages 3-4 can even learn how to ski with one hour of introductory skiing lessons in the enchanted forest, followed by indoor-outdoor activities at the center.

NORTHSTAR

Children ages 2-6 can spend a whole day at daycare at Northstar’s Minor’s Camp, or just the morning from 8 AM12:30 PM. For those ready to hit the slopes, book a lesson at the resort’s Ski School.

Dog Sledding

No need to fly to Alaska to enjoy dog sledding. At Wilderness Adventures Dog Sled Tours, families take majestic rides through the Sierra Nevada Mountains, sailing behind a team of trained huskies. Choose between a daytime or sunset tour.

Ice Skating

There’s nothing quite like ice-skating as fresh snow falls around you. At Boca Reservoir, families can strap on a pair of skates and hit the ice on this man-made lake in the Tahoe National Forest! The ice has to be thick though, so make sure it’s safe before stepping on. Want to stay indoors? The South Lake Ice Arena offers ice-skating without the forest backdrop.

Boat Tours

Winter doesn’t mean staying off the water.

Book a boat tour of Emerald Bay and enjoy the winter scenery from the water with the Tahoe Queen or MS Dixie II as your vessel.

ENJOYTHE HOLIDAYS AT HEAVENLY DEC. 18-31 HEAVENLY HOLIDAYS

This two-week holiday festival caters to kids and adults, featuring Where’s Waldo-style spottings on skiing Santa and his elves, ice sculptors and a 16-foot interactive snow globe where kids can tell Santa what they want for Christmas. The lodges will offer holiday-themed happy hours, too!

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EDUCATION

THEATRE

for FAMILIES  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

IS YOUR CHILD READY?

Make theatre your family’s next tradition. For children, attending live theatre performances at a young age increases their ability to feel empathy and demonstrate tolerance. It also enhances literary knowledge in a way reading and watching movies does not. Attending as a family is a positive bonding experience, and tradition gives children comfort and a sense of identity.

“It kind of opens up their minds to a whole new world. A lot of kids see TV and then they come to the theatre and it’s happening right there in front of them,” says Charlie Kirby, Office Manager for Stockton Civic Theatre. “It’s something they can experience first hand.”

BENEFITS OF LIVE THEATRE

In live theatre, the characters, the time period, and the lessons are all experienced—not just observed. Plays express conflict in a way children can understand. Even at the youngest age, theatre performances engage minds, teach valuable lessons, and help busy bodies learn to sit still.

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

The biggest indicator of whether or not your child is ready for live theatre is their ability to sit for extended periods of time. During SCT’s youth program (which runs over summer) programs are kept to one-hour to accommodate young viewers. “Their focus tends to wander after a long period of time,” Charlie says of kids ages 6-7.

If you’re not sure if your child is ready for theatre, take them to a movie. That’s a good indicator of how they will fair in a theatre setting. Age appropriate shows also help. “Call the theatre and ask them, is this age appropriate? They’ll tell you,” Charlie suggests.

As children grow, they take away more. Plays address human conflict and how people handle hardship, teaching children empathy for others as well as how to process their own emotions. From theatre, kids learn about other walks of life and how people think and interact.

They learn “because they see them not as one-dimensional as they would on the TV or a movie screen but as real people,” Charlie explains. “It just brings a sense of realism.” “[Live theatre] introduces them to music and to dance and hopefully more theatre,” Charlie says. “Once you establish that as a child, it tends to stay with you your whole life.”

LOCAL

PERFORMANCES: STOCKTON CIVIC THEATRE

MAMMA MIA!

NOV. 15—DEC. 10, PG “Kids seem to really love ABBA,” Charlie says.

THE BOB HOPE THEATRE

BAY POINTE BALLET PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER DEC. 9

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209-954-9793

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Immediate Openings Available At Our Bianchi Campus!

Homeschooling through Rio Valley offers students the flexibility to pursue their own learning styles and interests with the help of a credentialed teacher and a generous student account. Rio Valley offers onsite workshops, field trips, and events to enrich students’ learning, as well as FREE access to online learning platforms and a unique reimbursement program.

Enroll today!

Team Charter has immediate openings in several grade levels.

In addition, enrollment applications are now available for the 2017-18 school year.

• TEAM is a Public School - Transitional Kindergarten - 5th grade • Small Class Size • Highly Qualified, Dedicated Teachers • Rigorous Academic Curriculum • ASES Program • Free or Fee Based Before & After School and Vacation Care Programs Available Depending on Eligibility

To learn more about TEAM, contact us at (209)462-2282.

Please visit our website at www.team-charter.org

Explore. Create.

Change Your World.

1110 W Kettleman Ln #10, Lodi (209) 368-4934 • www.riovalley.org

NOV/DEC | 2017

1016 E. BIANCHI ST. • STOCKTON

600 E. MAIN ST. • STOCKTON

209.279.5500 209.462.2282 SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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NEWSWORTHY

It’s a JUNGLE OUT There LODI HOSPITAL MAKES EMERGENCIES MORE MANAGEABLE  BY FAITH LEWIS

specifically geared toward families and children will alleviate some of that fear and stress.”

The team landed on a jungle theme for the remodel, feeling that such a lively setting would afford endless opportunities for intriguing colors and patterns.

In the end artist Katy Hardeay had no shortage of inspiration to draw upon. She capitalized on bold colors and played with the feeling of movement among the animals in her murals.

While the theme is inviting, perhaps even more important is that much of the remodel is interactive, a factor Leadership Lodi hopes will help distract pediatric patients from their discomfort. Within her murals, Hardeay created a seek-andfind that will allow children to discover and learn about all the hidden animals. The remodel also features interactive flooring in the main waiting room, a hand battery display,

A visit to the emergency room is stressful regardless of age, but it can be absolutely terrifying for young children. Adventist Health Lodi Memorial Medical Center’s ER sees roughly 12,000 pediatric patients a year, and Leadership Lodi has teamed with the hospital to ensure a comforting experience.

Founded in 1990, Leadership Lodi is a program that selects a new group of local leaders to initiate and inspire change in the community each year.

When Wayne Craig, CEO of t Lodi Memorial Hospital Foundation, pitched his project to the 2016 Leadership Lodi team, the group immediately felt drawn to the project. With many of the members being parents themselves, Craig’s proposition to transform two of the hospital’s ER exam rooms and waiting rooms into welcoming and child-friendly spaces resonated with them on a personal level.

Paired with the hospital’s vision to create a Pediatric Express Program, the Leadership Lodi team recognized the potential of this project to impact the Lodi community as a whole.

“The goal is to make the emergency room more child-friendly and create a relaxing, fun, atmosphere that can help reduce stress and fear in the emergency room,” says Mandi Dumlao of Leadership Lodi. “We hope that providing a special place

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

gaming consoles, charging stations, and a VECTA machine (a sensory and distraction station).

“This project was something that Leadership Lodi wasn’t able to accomplish alone,” Dumlao says. “We are very grateful for all the effort put in by those involved either directly or indirectly to the completion of this awesome project.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION: ADVENTIST HEALTH LODI MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi, adventisthealth.org

even

We treat your emergency with urgency.

Our new process includes a nurse in the lobby 24/7 to screen patients upon arrival.

We have streamlined our system to see you faster than ever. When time is of the essence, choose Adventist Health Lodi Memorial. Visit us online at LodiMemorialER.org.

In Lodi at the corner of Ham & Vine

NOV/DEC | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

23

EDUCATION

DECK the HALLS

TOGETHER Holidays pose as the perfect opportunity to cash in on some quality family time. Everyone seems so busy with activities, social media, school, and work. But for a moment— gasp! maybe even a week—things seem to slow down (ff course not for you though, mom.)

You’re busy decorating and baking and hosting oh my! Why not hit a holiday bullseye and kill two birds with one stone? It’s a new family tradition, and it grows with your kids and decorates your home, and it’ll have you laughing and playing merrily, together, in no time.

Ditch over-doing it on the expensive holiday décor and craft some hangings of your own. Each year, add something new until you have enough decorations to deck the halls and cover the tree!

Building off last year’s hand-made décor is a fun way to reflect, and soon your holiday decorations will serve as a timeline, reflecting the growth of your children!

MOSAIC ORNAMENTS

YOU’LL NEED: CDs or DVDs,

Styrofoam balls or clear glass ornaments, scissors, a glue gun, glitter, and thick satin ribbon.

Gather up all those outdated CDs and DVDs—you know, those shiny things that your kids don’t even acknowledge as high tech anymore. Carefully cut the discs into very small pieces with scissors. The shards can be sharp, so keep an eye out! Shapes do not need to match, but should all be close in size, and generally, the smaller the pieces, the better!

Once you have your discs cut

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up, take the clear glass ornaments and use the glue gun to cover the ornament with the disc pieces. Then, remove the ornaments top hook, stuff it with the satin ribbon and re-secure the hook for a new, creative take on plain clear ornaments. This look is totally in this year, in fact, don’t be surprised to find very similar ornaments at Target for way too much. cardboard creation to the rim, leaving the figurines trapped inside the glass. You can keep them just like this, or use the bottom of the glasses (now at the top) as a candleholder for an extra special look!

FRAMED REINDEER FEET YOU’LL NEED: Small white

STEMWARE SNOW GLOBES

YOU’LL NEED: New or old stemware, small plastic snowmen, reindeer, evergreen trees (or any holiday-themed figurine from a craft store), thick cardboard, pencils, artificial snow, glitter, and a hot glue gun.

Use some old wineglasses, purchase new, or find at a second-hand store. Place the glass upside down on cardboard paper and trace around the outside of the glass. Cut out your cardboard tracing and fashion your figurines in any desired style and secure them with a glue gun.

Fill the glass with a few tablespoons of artificial snow or glitter, line the glass rim with hot glue, and press the

THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

canvas or cardboard paper (you can frame it.) Gold, brown, black, red, and blue paint, googly eyes, red puffs, ribbon, and a set of thin and thick paintbrushes.

Paint your children’s feet with brown or gold, (kid and skin friendly) paint and have them press each foot to the canvas, a few inches apart. Allow for the paint to dry before adding details to avoid smudging the footprint! Once dried, it’s time to get creative! Add antlers to the footprints, one by the big toe and the other toward the pinky.

Then, add eyes, a nose, and any other accessories fancied by your little feet.

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702 Porter Ave., Ste. B., Stockton

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NOV/DEC | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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NOV

DEC

CALENDAR

2017

LODI SANDHILL CRANE FESTIVAL

NOV. 3 – 5

 COMPILED BY SJM EDITORIAL TEAM

Learn about the magnificent cranes that take flight into our own backyard in this year’s Lodi Sandhill Crane Festival! From exhibits, special tours, and more, your family will have the chance to view these birds and browse the art show on display. Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi, (800) 581-6150

STORY TIME AT SHERWOOD MALL

NOV. 8

Dreading that hard day of Christmas Shopping with the kids in tow? Put them in just the right holiday spirit

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

by taking them out to Sherwood Mall to meet with the Stockton Public Library for story time and coloring crafts! Reading begins at 1:00 PM, with coloring at 1:30. Sherwood Mall, 5308 Pacific Ave., Stockton

STOCKTON HEAT HOCKEY GAME

NOV. 8, 17, 18

Tis the season to get pucking! Come on out to the Stockton Arena and enjoy your favorite players competing against our region’s best teams! The Heat is on!

Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton (209) 373-1500, StocktonHeat.com

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT AT HUTCHINS: BIG HERO 6

NOV. 10

Follow along with your favorite heroes in an epic adventure across San Fransokyo!

Your kids will be clutching the edge of their seats as Hiro and his best buddy, Baymax, try to uncover the truth of the masked man behind Hiro’s brother’s death!

Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi (209) 333-5550, HutchinsStreetSquare. com

32ND ANNUAL TROUT BOUT

NOV. 16

Anglers young and old! It’s that time of year once again to head on out to Oak Grove’s lake and catch yourself one of over 2500 pounds worth of fish! Both youth and adult prizes are ready to be won! The tournament begins at 6:00 AM! Oak Grove Regional Park, 4520 W. 8-Mile Rd., Stockton, (209) 331-2050

NOV/DEC | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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NOV

DEC

CALENDAR

2017

SUGAR PLUM TEA PARTY AT THE GRAND

DEC. 2

Delight your children in an opportunity to meet with the Fair Folk in this marvelous tea party with the Sugar Plum Fairy and her subjects. Enjoy tea, sandwiches, and sweets in this whimsical outing.

The fun begins at 11:00 AM. Grand Theatre Center

for the Arts, 715 Central Ave., Tracy (209) 831-6858, AtTheGrand.org

SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM FESTIVAL OF TREES

DEC. 2

Bring out the kids to a splendid showcasing of over sixty Christmas trees, decorated in a variety of unique displays! Enjoy children-based activities, photos with Santa himself, and snacks! This weekend-long festivity lasts all day and begins at 10:00 AM! San Joaquin County Historical Mueum at

 COMPILED BY SJM EDITORIAL TEAM

Micke Grove Regional Park, 11793 N. Micke Grove Rd., Lodi (209) 331-2055, SanJoaquinHistory.org

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT AT HUTCHINS: FROZEN

DEC. 8

It’s time to let it go! Elsa and Anna are making the screen at Hutchins Street Square for a fantastic movie night that will have everyone feeling the holiday spirit! Follow along with your favorite songs and heroes. The show begins at 6:00 PM! Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins St., Lodi (800) 581-6150, HutchinsStreetSquare.com

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

MAKERFEST

DEC. 9

Science and fun merge into one in this semi-annual event! Learn the ins and outs of tinkering and a variety of different workshops, all geared to bring yule-tide cheer! Experiments are encouraged! World of Wonders Science Museum, 2 N. Sacramento St., Lodi (209) 368-0969, WoWScienceMuseum.org

HOLIDAYS ON THE FARM

DEC. 17 – JAN 2

It’s time to head out to Dell’Osso Farms and revel in the winter spirit of fun! Enjoy sledding down the slope on your own inner tube, sliding across the ice rink, and taking a drive through the Light Show. Before you call it a day, make sure to take the kids to meet Santa!

Dell’Osso Farms, 501 Manthey Rd., Lathrop, HolidaysOnTheFarm. com

Parents

OVER

Festival of Trees • December 2 & 3 • 10a.m to 4p.m.

450

San Joaquin County Historical Museum

AREA

in Micke Grove Regional Park

LOCATIONS TO PICK UP

209.331.2055

YOUR FREE COPY TODAY! GET THE RESULTS YOU DESERVE! Call Us at 209.833.9989

www.SanJoaquinHistory.org

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NOV/DEC | 2017

SAN JOAQUIN PARENTS MAGAZINE

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LAST word

LITTLE Green LIES  BY NORA HESTON TARTE

I’m going to preface this story by saying I’m lucky; since birth my three-and-a-half-year-old has been a (mostly) healthy eater. Some nights he refuses to eat anything but hot dogs and French fries, but for the most part getting him to eat green vegetables and fresh fruit isn’t a battle.

However, his generally good eating habits make those days he refuses anything resembling real food more difficult. Like most mothers, I feel an intense need to get at least some nutritious calories into his body before he eats ice cream for dessert. Sometimes those desperate moments lead us to do things we aren’t proud of. For me, it led me to lie.

Little fibs are part of parenthood and I thought this one was no harm, no foul. With a hunk of avocado on his plate that he poked at and exclaimed he did not like before even attempting a taste (this has to be the most annoying toddler habit, right?), he insisted he was done with dinner. So I got creative.

That’s not avocado, that’s Hulk poop, I told him. I mean really, how else do you appeal to a three-and-a-halfyear-old boy? And to my surprise, he bought my little white lie, complete with the fact that he

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THE MAGAZINE FOR IN-THE-KNOW PARENTS

would grow super strong like the hulk when he ate it. Without hesitation he got wide-eyed and shoved the entire hunk into his mouth and swallowed. No grotesque noises, no protesting.

I thought I had won this battle.

Then, without skipping a beat, he hopped down from his place at the dinner table and ran full speed ahead into the wall, fist out, his entire body colliding with the wall, as a green streak appeared against the textured cream paint (which was not easy to clean by the way.) “Ow! Ow! Ow!” he yelled as he jumped up and down holding his fist. “Why didn’t I punch through the wall? I ate the Hulk poop!”

It was a valid question, and one I hadn’t yet considered an answer to. I mean, I really didn’t anticipate him trying to break through solid wood and plaster.

“Oh, well, you have to eat it everyday for a really long time before you get as strong as Hulk.”

“Oh.” He sounded a little dejected but he also seemed okay. Although, he must have decided it wasn’t worth the commitment because he hasn’t eaten avocado since.

And I learned a valuable lesson…Not all little white lies are harmless.

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