Growing Up in Santa Cruz May 2024

EDITOR | PUBLISHER

Brad Kava and Steve Dinnen

ART DIRECTOR | MANAGING EDITOR

Nathan Mixter

DISTRIBUTION & SUBSCRIPTIONS

Susan Bernstein

CONTRIBUTORS

Addie Mahmassani, Jaime McFaden, Kimberly Blaker, Laura Maxson, Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy, Hannah Stubblefield, Quinn Southall, Ana Maria Treadwell, Sarah Savasky

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Bobbi Jo Palmer

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Ann Fitts Meghan Bussing Sophie Veniel advertising@growingupsc.com

CONTACT US

408.656.1519

editor@growingupsc.com

P.O. Box 3505, Santa Cruz, CA 95063 MAY 2024 | VOL. 28 NO. 5

by Folger Graphics.

Jim Booth Swim School

Even small changes can make a BIG difference.

Triple P is a scientifically-proven, world-renowned positive parenting program available to families in Santa Cruz County.

Triple P strategies address a wide range of parenting challenges by providing a toolbox of easy-to-use tips.

Find a full schedule of Triple P tips and classes at triplep.first5scc.org.

Children’s Phone Use Isn’t Always Harmful, Despite Beliefs

The first thing my 8-year-old son does in the morning is go to the Duolingo website on his iPhone to study Spanish. The last thing he does at night is play eight games of Word Chums, the Scrabble-like game.

His vocabulary in both languages is growing in leaps and bounds.

I bring this up because there’s a new best-selling book out by Jonathan Haidt called “The Anxious Generation” that basically blames our kids’ mental health problems on the preponderance of smartphones. He claims depression, anxiety and suicide picked up in 2012 when the phones became omnipresent.

“The phone-based life produces spiritual degradation, not just in adolescents but in all of us,” he writes.

I don’t buy it. Do you?

Now, I was very much against getting my boy a phone at such a young age. It was his mother’s idea. But now, I realize she was right and I’m all for it as long as we carefully monitor what he does on it. And we do.

Yes, he watches some of the most annoying things ever on YouTube sometimes, mostly kids filming themselves playing video games. I want to scream when I hear them, as we sit at the kitchen table, me working and him on the phone.

But then the other day we were on a drive and he asked me what I thought was the tallest building in the world. Frankly, I had no idea. So, he started lecturing me on the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which I’d never heard of. He knew all about it and the other nine tallest structures from a video he’d watched on YouTube.

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fact, in moderation, it’s a great thing. So, while if I hadn’t seen these things for myself, I would have bought into Haidt’s theories. I now realize he’s capitalizing on the same type of fears earlier generations passed on: TV will rot your kids’ brains. Video games will make them violent and antisocial. Hard rock music will make them killers. Computers will make them housebound and unhealthy. Social media is ruining their self confidence…you name it.

None of those things were as bad as they made them out to be and in fact, keeping up with the current technology is not only positive, it can be useful for their studies and careers.

I’m not saying you should let them run rampant on phones or not encourage them to do plenty of nondigital things, but in moderation and with careful parenting, they can be valuable. At least that’s what I’ve seen.

That was when I realized I’d lost the smartphone battle and won a new perspective. They can be used for good, and for him anyway, are as valuable as things he’s taught in school.

He wanted to make stop action movies with his Lego mini figures. I worked with him some on it, but wasn’t very good at it. He learned more by doing it himself with smartphone video coaching.

And then there’s his Virtual Reality headset, which again, I was against. But he’s made some really good friends playing games on it and we carefully monitor who he’s talking to. It’s nothing like I feared and in

And on a lighter note, when I can’t figure out how to use my phone or the TV remote, now I’ve got a techie in the house.

And don’t forget, KIDS DAY is downtown Santa Cruz May 4, noon to 4pm. Schools, camps, after school programs and more will have booths and entertainment as families take over the heart of the city. It’s a great event and we’ll be there giving out temporary tattoos, photos with characters and copies of this magazine with a map in them.

Thanks for reading, Brad Kava, Editor and Publisher

Santa Cruz County Youth Poet Laureate Announced

Santa Cruz County’s first ever Youth Poet Laureate honor was given to Dina Lusztig Noyes at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in Santa Cruz, CA. SC County Youth Poet Laureate finalists include Gregory Souza, Simon Ellefson, Madeline Aliah, and Sylvi Kayser. During the inauguration ceremony, each youth poet performed several of their poems, demonstrating their unique voices and talents. The cohort will continue to be a team of artistic excellence and community engagement through poetry work.

Some members of the cohort will be reading their poetry at the Scotts Valley Multicultural Fair on May 4.

Dina Lusztig Noyes will be Community Writers’ featured reader in-person on Sept. 28 from 2:30-4:30pm at the Porter Memorial Library in Soquel.

Applicants submitted five original poems and a resumé. All finalists received a $100 cash honorarium and the Youth Poet Laureate received $500. All finalists also received a gift card donated by Two Birds Books.

“I was delighted by the caliber and passion of all our applicants this inaugural year, and I’m especially gratified that we were able to name these five youth poets as our cohort.” said Santa Cruz County Poet Laureate Farnaz Fatemi, who facilitated the development of the Youth Poet Laureate program. “It is clear they have

ENROLLING MIDDLE & HIGH

each found ways to use poetry to make their own lives more meaningful, and that they will serve, in individual ways, to support their peers and our broader community. I’m so excited to see how that will unfold. I am also deeply grateful to a host of local organizations who have given or pledged support for this program as we build it.”

Feedback

Noyes

Step one: question everything. Bloody fists truthward hurl, because your kenning is not “dead girl”... yet.

Step two: answer them yourself. Blink, you’ll die, not as two. Darling all herself that wasn’t you cadet.

Step three: change angles. A bullet’s war will grow boy to man, mangled, not boy to girl: so burn me.

Step four: understand your want. You are mannequin: broken toy. Hope not yourself to haunt. Do not ridicule the boy turned she.

Step five: begin, self actualize. Repair damage self inflicted, but not self galvanized. You were addicted. Heart attack.

Step six: you are bulletproof. Circular logic, how clever. But, not weather proof. Not forever. You fall back.

Step seven: question everything.

TEACHER’S DESK

Trick Your Family Into Spring Cleaning!

Okay, I know this sounds impossible, but I actually got my kids (and husband!) to VOLUNTEER to spring clean my house! No, I didn’t bribe them, or threaten them.

So here’s how I did it: I made a list of all of the things that needed spring cleaning: organizing closets, rearranging gardening supplies, cleaning out the fridge, cleaning windows – you get the idea. Spring cleaning can feel daunting because there is so much that can be done, so pick 3-4 things that are your top priorities for each room. The rest you can do in another spring cleaning day later or even next year. By listing specific tasks for my family, each one sounded reasonable.

Careful how you make your lists. Instead of writing “Organize Play Room,” I wrote “Find all Legos and place in Lego Bin,” “Gather all books and place on bookshelves,” “Put old toys in box for Goodwill,” etc. Be specific so they understand exactly what needs to be done.

3 TIPS FOR DIFFERENT ROOMS:

For bedrooms: “Fill Goodwill box with clothes that don’t fit anymore,” “Remove everything from under your bed and put

them where they belong,” and “Clear off your desk.”

For bathroom: “Wipe down toiletries in drawer,” “Stack and organize toilet paper, tissues, and shower supplies,” and Clean the toilet.”

For kitchen: “Organize utensils drawer,” “Clean fridge and freezer,” and “Clean stove.”

For garden: “Weed planters,” “Organize gardening tools,” and “Plant seeds in little pots.”

For garage: “Fill Goodwill box with stuff we don’t use,” “Hang hooks or build shelves for stuff,” and “Caulk edges around garage.”

I created a list that could be completed in a reasonable amount of time. It felt good just to make the list of all the things I’d been wanting to clean and organize

over the winter. Then, I called a family meeting on a Sunday morning and served up everyone’s favorite breakfast –huevos rancheros!

This wasn’t a “bribe”, exactly, but it helped when setting them up to volunteer for spring cleaning. I WAS PREPARED. I put up giant Post-it Notes on the walls and listed all of the individual things that needed to be cleaned.

Instead of demanding that they participate, I started with a perk: I told them that we would be hosting a party for family and friends in a month, and we needed to get our house and property in tip-top shape for our visitors.

They were thrilled to hear about our future guests and we talked about fun things to do with them.  So far, so good.

Then, I asked them to write their names next to the tasks listed on the Post-it Notes that they would like to do. When they saw something that they hated doing – like cleaning toilets or washing out garbage cans, they jumped up to claim the things that they considered easier jobs.

What happened next was shocking. They actually signed up for EVERYTHING ON MY LIST!

When they asked me why I didn’t sign

up for anything, I told them that I’m responsible for making sure that they have all the cleaning supplies, organizational materials, and guidance they need for all tasks. Couldn’t believe it but they bought it! Phew! I didn’t need to nag about getting it done because they all knew the deadline — the weekend of our party!

On our family calendar (and our family Google Calendar), I blocked off 3 hours each weekend for the family to work on their spring cleaning tasks. I made sure that they had their cleaning supplies, boxes for Goodwill, and new accessories (shelves, hooks) so there were no excuses. I also took lunch orders to give them something delicious to look forward to at the end of their work days. Tossing in pizza and ice cream goes a long way!

And that’s how you get your family to VOLUNTEER to do chores!

Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy is the founder of Merit Academy (one-on-one classes) and Merit Educational Consultants (college and educational advisory). She has written books on projects, free child care, education, and parenting. Susan hosts TEDxMeritAcademy for students to present their innovative projects and solutions. In 2019, she was California Mother of the Year.

College Degree Not Always Needed for High

Paying Tech Jobs

Vice President of Technical Operations at Comcast Didn’t Obtain a Four-Year Degree

Someone once told Tracye Mingo, “Don’t get mad when you are underestimated. Be glad. Because they will never see you coming.” That person was her father and number one mentor. Tracye carried those words throughout her career in technology, ultimately becoming the Vice President of Technical Operations at Comcast California.

For parents eager to see their children pursue a career in STEM, Tracye’s story is especially inspiring because she was able to pursue a high-paying career in technology without obtaining a degree from a four-year (or longer) college. This saved her significant time and expense, and enabled her to seize opportunities to propel her career forward quickly.

As a Black woman in Technology, Tracye defied the status quo, harnessing courage and fearlessness to take untraditional paths to success. From growing up in the South Side of Chicago with limited access to equitable education opportunities to experiencing racial bullying in the suburbs, Tracye learned to face challenges with resilience, determination, and support from her family.

Tracye was usually the only African American woman in the room. She began her Comcast journey over two decades ago as a customer service representative and worked her way up to management and director roles, thriving in spaces where she was the only woman of color.

Join us as Tracye shares her experiences with breaking barriers and creating representation in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN TECHNOLOGY?

I was in college at the time for Pre-Med and simply could not afford it anymore. I had to leave school and go back home and regroup. I took a job a Comcast so that I could pay my tuition at the local community college. That was around the same time the Internet started taking off and I developed a keen interest in technology. I was successful in my role as an agent and was asked to train new

hires. This gave me the opportunity to leverage the technical skills that I developed in my role and refine them. I had a keen understanding of how the telecommunication infrastructure was designed and I had to continue to expand my knowledge so that I could teach it. After moving into a supervisor role in tech support, I developed a passion for leadership in technology.

WHAT ADVICE DID YOU RECEIVE FROM YOUR PARENTS TO HELP BE IN A LEADERSHIP ROLE?

My parents guided me to strike a balance between fighting for change and doing so with diplomacy. My father was thoughtful, smart, and intuitive. My mother was a fighter; she is a spitfire. I learned from her to not accept the status quo and to challenge things that are not right. You’re not always going to win, but you will always learn how to be better prepared for the next round.

ALONG WITH YOUR FATHER, YOU HAD A MENTOR IN YOUR COLLEAGUE JOHN THOMPSON. HOW DID HIS MENTORSHIP HELP YOU FIND YOUR VOICE IN THE TECH INDUSTRY?

Sponsors and advocates are important because they often see more in you than you see in yourself. John encouraged me to move into spaces where I did not think

I belonged because of the limits I put on myself due to my experiences growing up. I was fortunate to have a leader who served as a coach – he saw my potential and inspired me to get out of my comfort zone.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO BE A FEARLESS LEADER?

My people, my team. You can’t be in leadership and operate from a place of fear. It’s important to support my team and advocate for them to remove obstacles so they can do their best. This doesn’t mean I am not afraid, but my motivation is bigger than my fear because there are hundreds of people’s livelihoods at stake.

HOW DO YOU CULTIVATE COURAGE IN YOURSELF AND OTHERS?

When I am afraid, I think about the worst possible thing that can happen then, I make a plan for that, a safety net. So, if the worst does happen, I have a solution. The more you practice doing this, the more confident you become and the more you realize the worst never happens.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE GREATEST ACHIEVEMENTS YOU HAVE HAD IN YOUR ROLE?

My team went through many changes due to restructuring prior to me landing here. They were hard-working but tentative. I spent my first year unlocking their confidence, leadership ability, and fearlessness. Now it is a world of difference. With that comes a tremendous improvement in KPIs, and it validates my belief that if you take care of your people, they will perform and the business results will come.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE PART OF A COMPANY THAT INVESTS IN THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITIES?

Comcast makes an impact in our communities, including our very own teams. Comcast creates lives for people. The opportunities afforded to me, and the openness to uplift people from all walks of life, made a life for me that I would not have had otherwise. That is the story for a lot of us. On top of the great volunteer work we do throughout the year, that direct impact is special to me.

DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN ANY COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS?

I am the Executive Sponsor for the Women’s Network Employee Resource Group at Comcast, and I joined the Black Women’s Project in Oakland. I also sit on the board of the Ecologic Outreach of Chicago, which is an organization that teaches At-Risk youth about Urban farming, healthy eating and cooking.

WHY IS REPRESENTATION IMPORTANT IN THE TECH INDUSTRY?

I learned how to thrive when I was the only woman of color in tech spaces, so I understand the importance of representation in the workplace. Recently I met a little girl when our team volunteered at the San Francisco Boys & Girls Club in Hunters Point. She pointed out that her hair was like mine and she was curious about what I did for a living. I explained to her how I helped provide the Internet in her home. I could see a light go on within her. Often, we say, “you have to see it to be it,” and I had that kind of moment with this young girl. She might see more possibilities for her future because of the representation that I am honored and privileged to provide. That moment was very humbling because it embodied that idea that “representation matters.” It is important for young people to see themselves in others. It helps them understand that their opportunities are limitless.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG WOMEN OF COLOR PURSUING A CAREER IN STEM?

Many times, women are afraid of STEM because it is male-dominated. Don’t hold back your uniqueness, your femininity, and your way of thinking. Men and women at times think differently and approach problem solving differently. There is no right or wrong. When different perspectives intersect, you can find the best ideas and solutions! You need a level of fearlessness and understanding that it is ok to be scared and do things anyway. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be ready to get started.

Mother’s Day is about celebrating the sacrifices in which moms throughout the community make every day for their children.

Few parents have made more sacrifices than 40-year-old Amy Ramsey, who, in April 2020, lost her 5-year-old son Jett after a year-long fight with brain cancer.

“It’s like losing a limb and trying to find it all the time,” Ramsey said. “You always kind of feel like a part of you is missing. But I would say that our hope comes from God and that’s what has gotten our family through.”

Ramsey is the owner of Jett&Rose – a home decor and gift shop in Corralitos –and loves working every day, proudly in the name of her son.

Being the mother of her two oldest children is her greatest joy in life, and motherhood has always been her most vivid life goal.

But it has not come without immense challenges and heartbreak.

Overcoming Tragedy By Helping Others

Jacob’s Heart is an Organization This Mom Has Helped

“My favorite part about being a mother is watching my kids grow up and develop attributes I taught them like kindness and loving others,” Ramsey said. “And watching them conquer hurdles and overcoming obstacles. My kids have had trauma – they’ve had to watch their little brother die and for me, I had to work even harder because that’s so hard.”

While she worked as a stay-at-home mom before the passing of Jett, she worked as many as three jobs at once and found herself wanting to be around kids – whether it be as a teacher’s aid or Twin Lakes Church.

Ramsey is grateful every day for the help from family and friends during the darkest times of her life – traveling the country to find Jett the best care during seven months of chemotherapy including an 11-hour brain surgery and 30 rounds of radiation.

After Jett’s passing, she felt disconnected and began searching for

ABOUT THE COVER

a reason to look forward to the end of each day.

“I was just trying to find out where I was supposed to be,” she said. “Like where was my purpose?”

Out of the blue, her friend who owned the building of Jett&Rose at the time asked her if she would like to run the business – to which she was unsure.

With some thought and financial assurances, she eventually leaped at the chance.

Aside from being a mother, Ramsey had always dreamed of owning a business while growing up in Santa Cruz but didn’t think it would become a reality at 39 years old.

“It’s a lot of work but it’s really fun,” she said. “By being there I’ve gotten to meet a lot of people in the community.”

Ramsey lives with the intention to help as many people as possible, and make her community a better place for others.

“What goes around comes around,”

she said. “And so far it’s come around for me.”

Since opening Jett&Rose, Ramsey has donated money to a plethora of organizations geared to help children –specifically those suffering from cancer –including Saint Jude, Jacob’s Heart in Watsonville, Rio Del Mar Elementary, Second Harvest Food Bank, and others.

For a month straight, she auctioned off items at her store and raised over $3000 to pediatric care – which she plans on doing again and involving other shops in the area.

“The fact that I can have a job that I love and still give back to my community and pediatric cancer has been a real blessing,” she said.

Ever since her loss, Ramsey has seen the world from a new perspective – in which even the smallest of things like a pretty sunrise or the sound of laughter give her a newfound appreciation for life. It has also taught her to care less about superficial achievements from her

Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services supports families during a pediatric cancer diagnosis. Since 1998, they have been dedicated to improving the quality of life for children with cancer and their families in the challenges they face. Jacob’s Heart serves over 375 families in Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Benito, and South Santa Clara County. Jacob’s Heart understands that every family’s path looks different which is why they meet families where they are at – practically, socially, and financially. They offer essential programs like transportation, grocery deliveries, direct financial assistance, and counseling to support families who are undergoing treatment and have experienced bereavement. At the heart of the organization is a caring team that fosters love and belonging to children, siblings, and parents. Through support groups, camps, retreats, art activities, teen events, and more, they cultivate a strong sense of community and peer support. Their programs and services address the basic needs for families of children with cancer, while working toward hope and healing, even when there is no cure. Jacob’s Heart is there to be an extended family for those in need and offer comprehensive support to families because no one should face cancer alone. Photographer credit Kaylee Green kayleeegreeen@gmail.com

kids like making the sports team, but to rejoice in their health and happiness.

To other mothers who have gone through similar loss, Ramsey implores to “not give up hope. Because when you lose a child it feels hopeless and it feels like your life is over. But it’s not. If you focus on the children, life and blessings that you do have and learn to be grateful through your grief it will help.”

Jacob’s Heart Spring Soirée will be on May 18 from 4-8pm at the Taylor Building in Old Salinas to help kids in the area going through what Jett did.

Mother’s Day is on May 12 this year, and for Ramsey it will be a time to appreciate all the love her children have for her.

“If you have healthy children, you have won the lottery in life,” she said.

BIRTH MATTERS

Rhogam: The Miracle Shot

A pregnant person might not know their exact blood type, but they’ll usually know if it’s the kind that needs “the shot.” Calling it “the shot” doesn’t really convey the amazing protection offered against Rh isoimmunization by the injection of Rho(D) Immune Globulin (RhIG), also known as RhoGAM®.

Why is the Rhogam shot needed? Just a few generations ago, over 10,000 babies a year were lost to Rh incompatibility in the United States. Until 1968 there was nothing to prevent this disease and the many sad outcomes related to it: miscarriage or stillbirth, and extremely ill newborns.

What is Rh isoimmunization or incompatibility? Everyone’s blood type, A, B, AB, or O, is also typed as either negative (-) or positive (+). This indicates the Rh factor; the presence or absence of the Rhesus D antigen.

If an Rh(-) person, pregnant with an Rh(+) baby, becomes exposed to their baby’s blood (most often at delivery), it can trigger antibodies to develop that will attack the antigens in the RH(+) blood.

When exposure happens at delivery, that baby will usually be fine, as it takes time for the antibodies to develop, but if the mother’s body goes on to develop antibodies to the Rh antigens she will be considered isoimmunized or to have Rh incompatibility.

Her antibodies will destroy any Rh(+) red blood cells that might show up in

DISCUSS ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT RHIG WITH YOUR CARE PROVIDER

The history of Rhogam - www.rhogam. comBreastfeeding CoalitionBir

her body with a future pregnancy.

Before RhIG injections were available, some families seemed to be plagued by pregnancy loss, often after a healthy, first child. The Rh factor in blood wasn’t identified until 1940, so they would not have known the series of apparently random pregnancy loss was due to Rh incompatibility triggered by a previous pregnancy.

Many newborns died or had lifelong disabilities from the disease. Fortunately, the incidence of Rh incompatibility has decreased dramatically and treatment options have improved significantly.

How does the shot work? The RhIG injection prevents the development of these antibodies. Researchers discovered that if the shot was given to an Rh(-) mother within 72 hours of giving birth to an Rh(+) baby, these dangerous antibodies did not develop, therefore future pregnancies were protected.

It is now routine to immediately test the cord blood of every baby born to an Rh(-) person, so they can receive an injection to prevent isoimmunization if the baby is Rh(+). (If the baby is Rh(-) no shot is needed.)

As additional prevention, any pregnant Rh(-) person is offered the RhIG injection at 28 weeks gestation,

even though the baby’s blood type is not known yet, to protect against possible blood mixing in the last weeks of pregnancy.

Occasionally, some people choose to skip the 28 week injection and wait to get the shot only if the baby is Rh+ at birth or there is an indication of bleeding/ blood mixing before then. Parents should thoroughly discuss all options with their care provider as they make choices about their care.

Another indication for an

RhIG injection to prevent possible isoimmunization is anytime there might be fetal/maternal blood mixing, including miscarriage, abortion, ectopic pregnancy, abdominal trauma, amniocentesis, or chorionic villus sampling in a pregnant Rh(-) person. Today we are far removed from the danger and heartache of Rh isoimmunization that was common decades ago. What is now a routine shot was once considered the miracle of Rhogam®.

Summer Reading Program Sparks Imagination and Creativity

Santa Cruz Public Libraries is excited to kick off summer with the 2024 Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is Read, Renew, Repeat! This conservation message invites participants to reduce consumption, reuse materials, and take the time to read as a restorative measure of selfcare and renewal as reading transports us to magical worlds, sparking our imagination and creativity.

The Summer Reading Program encourages children to explore the world of books and reading during their summer break. Participation in the Summer Reading Program fosters a love for reading and learning and prevents the “Summer Slip” — a term used to describe the loss over the summer months of academic skills and knowledge students gain throughout the school year. Engaging in reading activities during this time helps prevent the ‘slip’ and enhances children’s literacy skills, ensuring a smoother transition to the new school year in the fall. Adults are also encouraged to participate in the Summer Reading program; this serves as a strong model for children as they see their parents enjoying reading or participating in the many

parent-child bonds.

Beyond preventing the ‘slip, the Summer Reading Program offers a wide range of additional benefits for kids. It allows them to discover the joy of reading for pleasure, without the pressures of school assignments or exams. When children choose books based on their interests and preferences, they immerse themselves in captivating stories, exploring new worlds that spark their imagination. Reading during the summer also enhances vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills while expanding their knowledge on various subjects.

As part of the Summer Reading Program, kids, teens, and families are encouraged to track how much they read to earn gift certificates to Atlantis Fantasy World and the Boardwalk Bowl, scoops of ice cream from The Penny Ice Creamery, and raffle tickets for the grand prize. The grand prize for kids is a gift certificate for a new bike, teens can win a gift certificate for a bike, or other prizes such as headphones, and adults can win gift cards to local bookstores and annual family memberships to local museums.

The library also offers a variety of FREE programs to make the summer even more engaging and interactive.

SCIENCE PROJECTS FOR KIDS

Circulating STEM Kits SCPL has added a new category to our Library of Things: Circulating STEM Kits. These kits are a great way for children and families/ caregivers to learn and develop skills relating to science, technology, engineering and math while having fun. There are 5 different kits available for checkout: STEM kit: Building: Contains a set of Magna-Tiles and the book “The story of buildings.” STEM kit: Microscope: Contains one beginner microscope, a set of slides, and the book “World of the microscope.” STEM kit: Coding: Contains the Botley coding robot 2.0 and the book “Coding activity book.” STEM kit: Switches and Circuits: Contains one Snap Circuits Jr. kit and the book “Switches & Circuits.” STEM kit: Levers and Pulleys: Contains one K’Nex Education STEM Building Solution introduction to simple machines: levers & pulleys and the book “Simple machines!” with 25 science projects for kids.” Funds for our Circulating STEM Kits were provided through the Science Kits for Public Libraries Grant project of the IEEE, the successful grant application was submitted by Keith Gudger, member of the Friends of the Capitola Library.

Jack Spareribs: Pirate for Hire, Fratello Marionettes, and NorCal Bats, to name a few! We also have poetry workshops, virtual author talks, family crafts, movie nights, and weekly story times for toddlers and preschoolers. These activities not only foster a sense of community among young readers but also promote creativity and collaboration.

The Santa Cruz Public Libraries Summer Reading Program is a valuable opportunity for children to continue their reading journey during the summer months. By participating in this program and exploring the diverse range of books and activities available, kids can develop a lifelong love for reading, improve their literacy skills, and make the most of their time away from

school. We encourage you to read for fun, to learn a new skill, to make a new friend, and read, renew, repeat at the Santa Cruz Public Library this summer!

Visit any of the ten open branches of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries to sign up for the Summer Reading program or go online. Participants can log their Summer Reading hours to win prizes by using the reading log on the back of the program brochure; additional copies of the log are also available. Readers can also log their hours by using the Beanstack App.

For a complete list of all the Summer Reading Program activities and locations, visit the Santa Cruz Public Libraries Summer Reading Program page at SantaCruzpl.org/SRP.

POSITIVE DISCIPLINE PARENTING

Family Meetings Can Be Meaningful and Fun!

Parents and children have so many great opportunities to practice their Positive Discipline skills together in the context of family meetings.

Family meetings are planned, regularly occurring gatherings of parents and their children (ages 4 and up) and possess both relational and logistical aspects with respect to goals and outcomes.

The typical Positive Discipline family meeting has a recommended format. That said, few families are typical, and parents have to take several factors (e.g., their children’s ages, stages, individual temperaments, buy-in, etc.) into account. We therefore encourage parents to remain flexible in their thinking, experiment with different approaches, and discover what’s right for them knowing that family meetings can be held in a variety of different settings, last for varying lengths of time, address a wide range of topics and issues, and entail a host of activities.

Before reading any further, remember that no one wants to attend meetings that feel burdensome or boring. Especially when it comes to families with younger children and/ or teenagers, family meetings should be fun and engaging.

As is the case with other Positive Discipline tools, effective family meetings require providing a safe, encouraging, and mutually respectful space for everyone to enjoy meaningful interaction. Once that has been established, family meetings can be used not only to get everyone involved in planning fun activities, but to address everyday challenges that arise. Among several other benefits (listed below), family meetings offer a special opportunity to empower children, help them develop new capabilities and life skills, and experience a greater sense of connection with their family members.

FAMILY MEETINGS TEACH/PROMOTE:

• Attachment and connection

• Communication and listening skills

• Critical thinking skills

• Problem-solving with fairness

• Mutual respect

• Empathy and compassion for others

• Cooperative approaches to planning/discussing things

Open House

• Accountability in a safe environment where mistakes are treated as opportunities to learn/grow

• Belonging, significance, and connection

• Social interest/responsibility

• Positive engagement

FAMILY MEETINGS HELP PARENTS TO:

• Avoid/address power struggles

• Abstain from micromanaging children (so that children learn self-discipline)

• Respectfully/democratically share power and demonstrate responsibility

• Harness the power of family traditions to create good memories

• Model social-emotional and problem-solving skills for their children

PREPARING FOR FAMILY MEETINGS:

• Gain buy-in from family members

• Identify a day/time to meet each week as a family

• Establish ground rules (e.g., no interruptions, respectful language, rotate facilitator, secretary, time-keeper roles, etc.).

• Post a weekly meeting agenda that parents and children can add items to on the days leading up to each week’s meeting

THE FAMILY MEETING AGENDA/FORMAT:

• Begin with compliments and appreciations (see below for more on this).

• Briefly discuss success/challenges in addressing last week’s issues/solutions.

• Address/discuss current issues listed on the agenda.

• Make plans to attend events and/or do activities together.

• Calendar plans, extracurricular activities, meals, rides, household chores, etc.

• End in a celebratory way (affirmations, hugs, food, games, etc.).

MORE ABOUT COMPLIMENTS AND APPRECIATIONS WHEN BEGINNING FAMILY MEETINGS:

• Each member of the family gives each of the others a compliment/appreciation.

• Parents may need to model how to give compliments.

• Compliments help create a positive/safe atmosphere.

• Children learn to identify and verbalize the things they appreciate about others (and themselves).

• Giving compliments results in fewer disputes during and outside of family meetings.

• At different meetings try alternating between giving compliments and expressing what

Ocean Alternative Open House

984-6 Bostwick Lane

Santa Cruz 831.475.0767

Thursday, May 9, 1-3pm

Ocean Alternative provides an alternative schooling experience. Amazing credentialed teachers are available to guide you to build an exciting education plan for your child. Our weekly classes include literacy, math, and science. Students learn to communicate and collaborate in a group-learning environment. Community events, field trips, clubs & more!

each member of the family is grateful for. Incorporating a gratitude practice into family meetings can help members appreciate all of the things that they have that they may take for granted.

SOME ADDITIONAL FAMILY MEETING SUGGESTIONS:

• Avoid lecturing children and attempting to control what they decide to do/say.

• Focus on solutions as opposed to blame.

• Table unresolved items and add them to the next week’s agenda.

• Record successes/solutions in a family journal for everyone’s easy reference.

• The discussion of chores/responsibilities is optional. Use discretion and try to gauge if talking about chores during a family meeting is productive or not.

• For younger children, make the agenda as basic and fun as possible.

• For teenagers, make the meeting enjoyable and worthwhile, and focus on involving them in ways that honor their autonomy and perspectives.

• Give everyone ample time to warm up to the idea of family meetings, to practice upholding family meeting agreements, and to master the Positive Discipline skills they’re learning/using.

PERSEVERANCE AS A RESPONSE TO SET-BACKS When creating any type of new routine

or tradition, it may take time and practice to get it to run smoothly. Even when things do become a part of a family’s culture, it may not always run smoothly (think of any other type of routine). When failures/challenges arise, think about ways to improve rather than giving up on the entire idea altogether (modeling perseverance).

Maybe that could be the first topic of a family meeting; “How do we want to run our family meetings?” Perfection is never the goal, but building stronger relationships is! When children see and understand that their parents are truly invested in their interests and in helping them adjust to life’s challenges, they will more likely trust their parents when they are faced with tougher challenges that arise.

Family meetings can be the glue that helps keep families connected during their fast, ever-changing lives. Give it a try, and see what’s possible. You’ll probably be very happy you did!

How Do I Prepare My Teen for His or Her First Job?

Here are Some Tips for Youths Looking to Enter the Workplace

Q: My teen started looking for their first official job and, as their parent, I’d love to help them through this process. How can I prepare my teen for their first job?

A: You sound like an involved, responsible and caring parent. Preparing your teen for their first job will help ensure their foray into the working world is as smooth and successful as possible. Here’s how to prepare your teen for their first job.

TALK ABOUT THEIR GOALS

Help your teen hash out their goals before looking for their first job. Sit down with them and ask what they hope to achieve with their job.

Do they want to join the crowd working at the local coffee house on the weekends, or are they more in it for the money? Are they saving up for something specific, or just looking for a way to increase their casual spending? Is their objective to get some real work experience that can help them land a more lucrative position in the future?

Defining their goals will help your teen find and keep the job that suits them best.

FIND OUT IF THEY’RE ELIGIBLE

Depending on your teen’s age and the protocols of local businesses, your teen may not be able to work at an official position just yet. Many companies only hire employees who are age 18 and above. If your teen is underage, you can guide them towards jobs that accept a work permit for younger employees, or an unofficial position such as mowing lawns, walking dogs, or babysitting for neighbors.

SHARE SALARY EXPECTATIONS

It’s important for your teen to know what kind of paycheck they can expect to receive at their first real job. According to ZipRecruiter, teens earn an average of $16.74 an hour. Explain to your teen that people working for 10 or 20 years will earn more than someone working their first job. Talk to them about work experience

and how they can anticipate their earning potential growing with the passage of time.

RESUME POLISHING

As their parent, you are in the unique position to help your teen prepare for their first job application and interview.

Together, draft a resume that provides information on their education to date, as well as their professional goals and aspirations. Include special skills they possess, along with any extracurricular projects they’ve been involved in and any organizations they volunteer for during their free time.

JOB HUNT AND APPLICATION PROCESS

Once you’ve narrowed down your teen’s skills and work goals, talk to them about effective job-search strategies, such as checking online job boards, visiting local businesses to ask about possible openings and networking with friends and family.

Encourage them to explore part-time, seasonal, or entry-level positions that match their interests. Once they’ve found a few possible job options, guide them through the application process, including sending their resume, as well as follow-up calls and emails.

INTERVIEW PREP

Next, help your teen gear up for their first job interview. Review common interview questions they can expect to get and come up with responses that will leave the best impression while still being truthful.

Role-play an interview so they can practice for the real thing and lose any nerves they may be feeling. Share some tips about proper professional wear and stress the importance of being polite throughout the conversation.

Finally, make sure they get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy breakfast before the big day.

TALK ABOUT FINANCES

Once your teen has landed a job, it’s time to talk about finances. Here are some work-related money topics you may want to cover:

Tax implications. If your teen is earning money, they may need to pay taxes. If they

are self-employed and earning over $400, they’ll likely file a 1099-MISC.

Direct deposits. If your teen already has their own checking account, talk to them about having their paycheck directly deposited. This saves time and often clears for availability sooner than a paper check.

If they don’t have their own account, consider opening one for them now. An account in your teen’s name will help them feel more responsible toward the money they earn and manage it more responsibly.

Saving and investing. Your teen’s first job presents a perfect opportunity to discuss saving and investing. Talk to your child about setting aside a percentage of their earnings toward saving, or even getting started on investing. Help them create short- and long-term financial

goals and set smaller goals along the way to keep them motivated.

TIME MANAGEMENT

As your teen adjusts to their new responsibilities, you can help them develop a healthy work-life balance and learn to manage their time effectively. Help them create a schedule that allows time for keeping up with their schoolwork, hanging out with friends and meeting all their work requirements

You’ve taught them how to ride a bike, held their hand through cavity fillings and coached them through soccer and piano lessons. Now, it’s time to guide your child in their foray into the workplace.

Bay Federal Credit Union is a local, not-for-profit financial institution with banking solutions for the whole family. (bayfed.com)

DENTISTRY

New patients

DENTISTRY

New

Dr. Jackson likes to see children early to help assure healthy smiles later on. In fact, we recommend a first visit around the time of your child’s first birthday.

New patients

Dr. Jackson likes to see children early to help assure healthy smiles later on. In fact, we recommend a first visit around the time of your child’s first birthday.

Dr. Jackson likes to see children early to help assure healthy smiles later on. In fact, we recommend a first visit around the time of your child’s first birthday.

Downtown Santa Cruz

May 4 | Noon to 4pm

Sunshine, sandy beaches, and a laid-back vibe – Santa Cruz embodies the California dream. But beyond the coastal attractions, the Downtown district offers a treasure trove of experiences that make it a haven for families with kids and teens.

Many of the folks who run downtown businesses, are also parents. We wanted to know what they do with their kids Downtown.

My three kids love the variety that Downtown Santa Cruz has to offer for each of them. For the oldest, the outdoor adventurer, it’s usually to shop for a new wetsuit or a skateboard deck. For my middle kid, the epicurean, it’s to check out the newest restaurant or visit an old favorite. And for the youngest, the culture lover, it might be a performance at the Civic Center or to spend a couple hours browsing books at Bookshop Santa Cruz. - Zachary Davis, Penny Ice Creamery

My daughters are both teenagers that grew up in Downtown Santa Cruz and it has always been their hub for entertainment. Many downtown days are spent with a gaggle of girlfriends wandering around eating a slice from Pleasure Pizza, ice cream at Mission

Hill Creamery and perusing all of the vintage clothing shops. Oasis on Pacific is the current favorite! They love downtown and I love watching them grow up appreciating the vibe of our locally grown community. - Cara Pearson, Pacific Cookie Company

Our family really enjoys strolling through Book Shop SC and picking up some fun reads! Our son is 8 therefore a trip to Level up and Comicopolis is a must! All our toy/ coloring needs are met at my 6 year old Daughters favorite shop Childish Toy Shop! Gotta end the night with some Shogun Sushi and a treat from Pacific Cookie Company!Kayti Mata, Lively Kids

From exploring unique shops to indulging in delicious local treats, there’s something for everyone in Downtown Santa Cruz. Whether your children are outdoor enthusiasts, budding gourmands, or have a creative streak, the district caters to all interests. The welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community create a space where kids can explore and parents can relax, making Santa Cruz Downtown the perfect place for families to build lasting memories.

Contact information: (831) 706-1620 www.radius.gallery

Level Up Video Games Buy 1 get 1 free on assorted stickers & Pokemon mini figures

Bookshop Santa Cruz 15% off kids books

Lively Kids Today only take 20% off all full priced apparel

Comicopolis 15% off kids graphic novels (in-store only)

Bookshop Santa Cruz 15% off YA and kids books

So Fresh Clothing 20% off all hats this day

Luz de Luna Jewelry Jewelry making station for kids of all ages

Three Birds For all the beautiful moms come treat yourself with 20% off on your entire purchase

Artisans & agency Pick up a Doug Ross Aquatic Coloring Page, visit the Rainbow Wall and enjoy 20% off kids clothes with mention of Kids Day

Chocolate the Restaurant Kids 12 and under will get half price on the Lena (most popular with kids) hot chocolate from 12-4pm on Kids Day

Go Ask Alice 20% off all kids toys

Pacific Cookie Company Celebrate Kids Day with the limited edition Unicorn Snot cookies: lemon sugar with rainbow sprinkles

Botanic and Luxe 15% off all baby and kid items in the shop

Nicely Come paint here. They will be transforming sheets of music into beautiful works off art (supplies provided)

Izzy’s Ices $1 off any size Italian Ice

Homeless Garden Project They will demonstrate how to pot seeds into a plant starter pot using soil and seeds. Kids create their own and can take home to watch their plants grow.

DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN

Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our summer Underwater Explorers program. No diving experience or equipment is needed — just a sense of wonder!

To learn more, scan the QR code or visit: MontereyBayAquarium.org/UnderwaterExplorers

Use one California WIC Card for all your family’s food benefits. Grocery shopping is easier and flexible with the WIC Card!

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is a food and nutrition program for growing families.

WIC benefits include:

• Healthy foods

• Nutrition and health information

• Breastfeeding support

• Referrals to health care and community services You may qualify if you:

• Are pregnant, breastfeeding, just had a baby (or recent pregnancy loss); or

• Have a child or care for a child under age 5; and

• Have low-to-medium income or receive Medi-Cal, CalWORKs (TANF), or CalFresh (SNAP) benefits; and

• Live in California.

Newly pregnant individuals, working families, including military and migrant families, are encouraged to apply! WIC welcomes partners, grandparents, foster parents, and guardians who care for eligible children.

Community Bridges WIC

Watsonville 831-722-7121

Santa Cruz 831-426-3911

~ styling a home with old-style objects, wearing vintage jewelry & clothing, and collecting unique art and objects then this is somewhere you need to visit! Held at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville. With over 100 vendors, you can find gardens, rusty, French, farmhouses, industrial and more! Food & adult beverages sold onsite. goathillfair.com

THROUGH JUNE 30

Lowrider Art Exhibit 11am-4pm In collaboration with the Watsonville Film Festival this exhibit at Pajaro Valley Arts seeks to honor and highlight the lowrider spirit of creativity, culture and ingenuity, by shifting from negative stereotypes to empowering narratives. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. pvarts.org/events/ more-than-cars-celebrating-lowriderculture-2024-05-02

FRI 3

First Fridays Santa Cruz 5-8pm On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block party-like vibe, the multi-venue event provides an opportunity to discover local creative talent in a fun and festive setting. firstfridaysantacruz.com/event

First Friday Boulder Creek 5-8pm

Enjoy a free monthly mountain street fair in the name of creation and community. There will be local art, music and food lining the sidewalks of downtown Boulder Creek. firstfridaybouldercreek.org

SAT 4

CircOrchard 2-3pm Orchard School’s whole student body, grades K-6, will perform clown antics, juggling, unicycling, circus spoofs, stilt-walking and more. At Scott’s Valley Theater Guild. 251 Kings Village Rd. in Scotts Valley. orchardschoolaptos.org/events

May Faire 11am-3pm Come play, create, eat delicious food, enjoy the May Pole music and dance and have fun. The Waldorf School Early Childhood department will be offering a puppet show and there will be lots of magic and activities to discover all about the redwood nestled campus. santacruzwaldorf.org/events.

Kids Day Downtown Noon-4pm Exhibitors will be lined up on Cooper Street and Pacific Ave (between Church St. & Locust St.) There will also be performances and demonstrations all day long in Abbott Square. Plus, many Downtown businesses will be offering discounts and specials just for kids. Come by and say hello to the Growing Up in Santa Cruz staff. downtownsantacruz. com/events/kids-day-main

SUN 5

Coastal Wildflower Day Festival 10am-2pm Welcome spring, celebrate California Native Plant Week and honor the vital role of community-based volunteer restoration efforts at our Coastside State Parks at Half Moon Bay State Beach. There will be games and crafts for young people and guided wildflower walks. coastsidestateparks.org/cwd

THUR 9

Ocean Alternative Open House 1-3pm Ocean Alternative provides an alternative schooling experience. Amazing credentialed teachers are available to guide you to build an exciting education plan for your child. Our weekly classes include literacy, math, and science. Students learn to communicate and collaborate in a group-learning environment. Community events, field trips, clubs & more!

FRI & SAT 10-11

Goat Hill Fair Just in time to get that last minute Mother’s Day gift. If you or someone you love has a love for vintage

SAT 11

Second Saturday on the Farm 11am3pm The Agricultural History Project’s 2nd Saturday events are like taking a step back in time. Grab your cowboy hat and put on your boots and come and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon on the farm! In addition to Summer Fun special activities, you’ll be able to milk a “cow”, drive-a-tractor, and enjoy crafts, hayrides, puppet show, antique engines and museum exhibits. Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic. aghistoryproject. org/2nd-saturday-on-the-farm

Spring Art Market 10am-5pm Shop local art and fresh flowers, dine with a variety of local food vendors and enjoy live music and family-friendly activities. Discover everything from ceramics, jewelry, and

paintings to candles, self-care products, and clothing at Tannery Arts Center. tanneryartscenter.org/spring-art-market-1

SUN 12

Antiques Faire 8am-6pm The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and more. Visit the Antique Faire on Lincoln Street between Pacific and Cedar.

TUES 14

Gateway School Tour 9-11am

Visit Gateway School on one of their monthly Tuesday tours. Hang with our kindergarteners on Kindy Island, see what’s growing in the Life Lab outdoor classroom, join middle schoolers for a science experiment, and see first hand the unique benefits of a K-8 education. www. gatewaysc.org.

Wildfire Preparedness Workshop 6-8pm Scotts Valley Parks & Recreation

GUiSC will attempt to update the calendar listings as needed; however, it is the responsibility of the organization listed to provide updated information. GUiSC assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are encouraged to check the accuracy of the information provided. Events that are free or cost less than $10 can be submitted for inclusion in the calendar. GUiSC does not guarantee that a submitted event will automatically be included. Preference is given for events of interest to children and/or parents. Calendar entries must be received by the 15th of the month prior to the month of the event. To find out more about promoting your event further or include a paid event, email advertising@growingupsc.com.

will have speakers from Cal Fire, SVFD and United Policyholders discussing varies topics as the fire season approaches. They will also have booths set up from multiple resources throughout Santa Cruz County. At the Scotts Valley Community Center. scottsvalley.gov/442/City-Hosted-Events

WED 15

Book Talk 6-7pm Come dressed in your favorite pajamas to celebrate and welcome New York Times bestselling author and creator Katy Farina for her latest graphic novel, Karen’s Sleepover— another graphic novel in this fun series spin-off of The Baby-sitters Club, featuring Kristy’s little stepsister at Bookshop Santa Cruz. bookshopsantacruz.com/katy-farina

FRI, SUN 17, 19

ParkStage Youth Performance The culmination of several weeks of hard work, students aged 8-13 will perform a dramatized historical story of Santa Cruz outdoors This performance is free to the public, and will take place on the lawn at the historic state park May 17 at 6pm and May 19th at 4pm. Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit on.

SAT 18

History Fair Noon-5pm The annual Santa Cruz County History Fair will be hosted by the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park. Sponsored by State Parks, Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks & the Capitola Historical Museum.

¿Qué ofrece el programa de doble inmersión?

Why Dual Immersion?

Being bilingual provides advantages in future careers

Being bilingual promotes cognitive flexibility, increased problem-solving skills and creativity

Ser bilingüe proporciona ventajas en futuras carreras profesionales

Ser bilingüe fomenta la flexibilidad cognitiva, el aumento de la capacidad para resolver problemas y la creatividad

SUN 19

Downtown Makers Market 10am-5pm

Visit the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market featuring 40+ local makers & artists every third Sunday of the month on the 1100 block of Pacific Ave. between Cathcart and Lincoln streets. scmmakersmarket.com

Hike4Peace 10am-2pm Hike4Peace is Tara Redwood School’s annual HIKEA-THON fundraiser and Arts & Crafts Fair. Meet and greet Tara Redwood School faculty and partake in one or all of the Tara Redwood School creative arts tararedwoodschool.org/hike-for-peace

WED 22

Music & Art Festival 4-8pm The 3rd annual SLV Music & Art Festival is an outdoor, community event. There will be multiple food trucks and also silent and live auctions that support the SLV Music Boosters. slvmusic.org.

JUNE 1-2

Redwood Mountain Faire Dance the day away to live music with your friends and family while enjoying tasty locally made food, cold beer, cider, and wine in an open field surrounded by redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains. There are 25 bands on three stages. redwoodmountainfaire.com

Will your child be entering Kindergarten in the 24/25 school year?

Join the Live Oak Elementary School Dual Immersion (Spanish/English) Program!

¿Entrará su hijo en el kínder en el año escolar 24/25?

¡únete al programa de doble inmersión de la escuela primaria Live Oak!

Upcoming Parent Information Night: Thursday April 25th @ 5:00 próximas noches de información para padres jueves 25 de abril @ 5:15pm

Facts about Live Oak Elementary School

CA Distinguished School Awards 2018 and 2020

CA Gold Ribbon Award for Literacy and Response to Intervention at TK-5 Schools

Before & After School Program with childcare available starting at 7:30am and continuing until 6:00pm

Recibio el premio de Escuela Distinguida de CA 2018 y 2020

Premio Cinta de Oro de CA por lectoescritura y respuesta a la intervención en escuelas TK-5

Programa extraescolar con cuidado de niños disponible a partir de las 7:30am y hasta las 6:00pm

Bilingualism is a Bilingualism is a Bilingualism is a superpower! superpower! superpower! ¡Ser bilingüe es un ¡Ser bilingüe es un ¡Ser bilingüe es un superpoder! superpoder! superpoder!

Situado en/Located at: Live Oak Elementary 1916 Capitola Road Santa Cruz, CA 95062 (831) 475-2000 lo.losd.ca

Mock Trial Competition Teaches Teens About Justice System

This year, a group of teenagers was tasked with bringing justice following the death of Kieran Sunshine, a biomedical executive found with apparent stab wounds in a hotel room as it began to emerge the company’s ForeverFlex5000 wasn’t such a wonder-device after all.

Thankfully no one actually died—it was just a storyline dreamed-up for the 2024 Santa Cruz County Mock Trial competition.

But the way the scenario played out (in the courtroom where people really do get sent to jail), had legal practitioners commenting that the kids were doing a better job than what they’ve even seen from some lawyers.

“Congratulations on making it to the final round,” said Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge Syda Cogliati, as the proceedings began in Department 5 around 5:30pm. “I know how hard all of you have worked to be here.”

Teach Democracy, formerly known as the Constitutional Rights Foundation, has been managing the California Mock Trial Competition since 1980; it produces the witness statements, exhibits, simplified rules of evidence, and lesson

plans on the central issues in the case.

The local iteration is put on by the Santa Cruz County Office of Education in partnership with the Santa Cruz County Bar Association, the Superior Court of California Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz Trial Lawyers Association, and the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.

In the matter at issue—People v. Clark—the final hearing was like watching a courtroom TV drama come to life.

Mary Fukai, an attorney coach who

retired from the Santa Cruz County Office of the Public Defender, confirmed that it wasn’t scripted.

Students, she explained, receive a list of facts, case law and witness statements that are about 2-3 pages long.

“They basically take all of this information and they turn it into direct examinations, cross examinations,” she said.

Both sides (Santa Cruz High School on defense and Pacific Collegiate School prosecuting) had four minutes to present their arguments, on top of responding to questions from the judge.

The first order of business was a motion to quash a warrant for cellphone data that had sucked up personal information from dozens of mobile devices.

The young litigators debated the applicability of geofence law established in landmark cases like People v. Meza, United States v. Chatrie, People v. Dawes and Price v. Superior Court (Riverside) to try to gain an advantage.

Students provided on-the-ball responses to tough questioning from the bench on par with anything you might hear during daytime court sessions.

“I’ll grant the motion to suppress the

evidence,” the judge decided.

Then it was on to opening arguments, with Henry Solomon, who was part of last year’s winning team, setting out why defendant Tobie Clark should be convicted—saying she lied on the patent for the ForeverFlex, which she knew had harmful effects, then killed Sunshine after learning he was going to go public.

“Tobie Clark wouldn’t let him get away with this,” he said. “Having begun with fraud, she turned to murder.”

The People called four witnesses, and despite the defense efforts to chip away at their credibility, the judge was persuaded to render her first-degree murder decision.

Their client may have been found guilty, but that didn’t necessarily mean they would lose the competition.

In fact, both teams ended up with the exact same score: 641 points.

An award named after former Scotts Valley mayor and respected judge Paul Marigonda, who died recently, was handed out for the first time.

The honor—for the team that showed excellence in enthusiasm, effort and courage—went to Pajaro Valley High School.

GRANDMOTHER’S VIEW

Grandparenting Outside the Box

Before my granddaughter was born, I had a sense about what kind of grandmother I would be. I may have underestimated how obsessed I would be with her, but other than that, I am the sort of grandmother I imagined I would be. After all, grandparenting is just an extension of who we are as parents, which is an extension of who we are as human beings.

Now that we’re older (sorry to break the news), we may have mellowed in some ways while some personality traits might have gotten even more annoying, but we’re basically the same people we’ve always been (no matter how many self-help books we’ve read).

There are approximately eightymillion of us grandparents in the United States now, with eighty million personalities. However, if you ask the experts, our quirks, idiosyncrasies, and ways of being can be distilled into these five basic styles of grandparenting: Formal, Companionate, Fun-seeker, Surrogate Parent, and Reservoir of Wisdom.

Formal grandparents are more hands-off, also known as the We’re Just Not That Into You approach.

Fun-seeking grandparents take their cues from Cyndi Lauperthey just wanna have fun with their grandkids. Surrogate Parents are full time caregivers and deserve a medal (I’m exhausted after one day.). Reservoir of Wisdom types can’t seem to stop themselves from dispensing wisdom and advice.

If I had to categorize my grandparenting style I would say it’s

Companionate, the type of grandparent who has a warm, loving relationship with their grandchildren but does not take on day-to-day responsibility for them (except on Fridays).

If you ask actual grandparents about their grandparenting styles you will probably get a much more nuanced and interesting answer. None of us are one dimensional. You can probably find your style in several of these categories.

The Reservoir of Wisdom style seems especially silly to me. It’s hard to imagine a grandparent who spends all their time passing on their wisdom and giving out advice or the child who would enjoy that. Isn’t that supposed to happen naturally while you’re doing other things with your grandkids, like seeking fun and companionating?

Still, these styles offer more variety than the stereotypical images of grandmothers from my childhood: gray-haired ladies knitting in rocking chairs or baking cookies in their calico aprons.

We’ve come a long way, grandbaby! This point was driven home recently while I was taking a break from caretaking my granddaughter while the East Coast helping my dad who has

Alzheimer’s. (Side bar: I have grown out of the sandwich generation and into the club sandwich generation.)

Winter on Cape Cod is very different from summers there. Goodbye lobster roll, hello pub food. Thankfully, one of those pubs was the Irish kind and featured live music

The musician mentioned she was the mother of the bartender and that she was a grandmother. I’ve seen a lot of live music in my time, but I’ve never seen a sixty-something gray haired, tattooed woman joking about her comeback tour and belting out rock and roll covers.

I was smitten, mostly because she was a grandmother who didn’t fit the grandmother mold or probably any other category one might try to put her in. It was another reminder that it’s not that helpful and not at all interesting to put people in a box.

However, if they ever add Badass to the list of grandparenting styles, I will happily join her in that box. If you are enjoying my column or have a topic you’d like me to write about, I’d love to hear from you at sarahsavasky@gmail.com.

YOUR HEALTH

A Tribute to Motherhood: The Heroes of Everyday Life

Let’s be real. Motherhood is a lot. A lot of love and a lot of juggling. A lot of joy and a lot of messes in the kitchen.

From pregnancy to 24/7 caring for our babies, and all the way until kids become adults - the job of a mom never ends and sometimes even means hiring a babysitter to come so you can just clean for a couple hours. Or Reheating your coffee 10x each morning and doing more with one hand than you could ever imagine, moms are basically magicians without a wand.

Today we are raising awareness in this story to the ones who deserve some extra love and support most: MOMS.

Moms are usually the first to say YES to help someone else and the last to ask for help. Taking time hat mom’s are “supposed to do” and part of it is based on the divine nurturing that moms innately have within.

Instead of just taking one day this month to honor these incredible women - this story shares some of the greatest ways we can celebrate moms all year long, and gives you some fun ideas to give to these women and give them some extra love.

Mothers are the backbone of society and according to the US Census Bureau, there

are about 85.4 million mothers in America alone. Moms are usually the ones who bear the brunt of juggling multiple roles. They are caretakers, providers, teachers, cheerleaders and the first to take care of everyone else and put themselves last on the list. A study from University of California found that children who are nurtured by their mothers from a young age, tend to have healthier and more productive lives. Whether you are close with your own mom, or if you’ve experienced the loss of your mother, dedicate some time this month honoring the mothers in yoru life who make it better.

So how can we celebrate our mamas in may? Here are some self-care tips and meaningful gestures that help moms feel loved and appreciated.

As a mom of two, I can wholeheartedly see why MOMSTRONG is such a popular hashtag and why I created a business and brand that supports moms creating time for self-care. Here are some gifts that are worth more than money you can share with a mom you love:

Acts of service: All moms can truly appreciate an extra set of hands. Even the moms who you have it all together are

usually hanging on by a thread. Offering to do something for a mom you love like babysitting, cleaning the house, cooking her a meal, any way that you can help take something off her plate is probably the number 1 gift moms want.

Handmade/personal gifts: A letter, a photo, something personalized that a mom can cherish for decades to come is such a perfect way to honor her and show her special thoughtful love.

Quality time: Most moms are also juggling so many things at once, it is hard to feel present. Taking a mom you love to go on a nice walk, pracitce some yoga or do something together that you can enjoy and be present together is another gift that she can cherish for a lifetime.

Motherhood can often feel like a 24/7 job filled with many hats and the pressure in our world to be a “perfect” mom can often weigh a lot on moms shoulders.

I have a FREE self-care guide you can give to a mom you love simply by getting on my newsletter jaimemcfaden.com

Moms need support just like everyone else and the more we can support one another the better we can show up for others.

SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE

DAY CAMPS

Be Natural Music

740 & 742 Water St, Santa Cruz

831.515.8369

BeNaturalMusic.Live

Learn and perform Jazz, Rock, Reggae, Motown, Pop & more at our two locations in Santa Cruz and Cupertino. BNM offers private Music Lessons, Group classes, Real Rock Band classes, Performance, Summer Music Camps & more! Offering lessons & classes on the following instruments: Voice, Saxophone/Horns, Piano/Keys, Guitar, Bass, Drums & Percussion, Ukulele, Harp, Jazz Theory & Composition. During our Summer camps, young musicians compose original music together, script music videos, and record their songs at Santa Cruz

Recording! The final high-quality music video is released on our YouTube Channel & Soundcloud. Please contact us for more details @ www. benaturalmusic.live

Cabrillo Extension Summer Camps for Kids

6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos 831.479.6331 extension@cabrillo.edu extension.cabrillo.edu/youth

Dozens of fun and engaging one-week camps on our Aptos campus. Choose from camps in Cooking & Baking; Science & Exploration; Computers & Technology; Creative Arts; and Sports & Play. Morning and afternoon camps let you choose two activities per week that fit your camper’s interests. Diverse, high-quality camp content for kids ages 5 to

16 to explore, create, and grow. Join us for one week, or all summer long!

“Such a great experience and my son learned so much. He learned to code and create his virtual worlds. He was so happy!” ~Virtual Reality: The Future is Now Camp parent

Cabrillo Youth Chorus Summer Voice Camp CabrilloYouthChorus.org

This week-long camp July 29–August 2 will give your child an unforgettable experience as they put together an original musical performance! Children ages 8 to 18 learn music theory and musicianship; participate in dance, improvisation, and rhythm games; play recorders, Orff, and other instruments; and perform in musical theater. No experience is needed – just a love of singing! For more information, check out our website, contact us at cyc.staffers@gmail.com, or call 831.824.4023.

Camp Kayetz

831.479.3444 tbeaptos.org/camp-kayetz.html

Camp Kayetz offers a wholesome, inclusive, Jewish day camp experience to campers ages 6-15. June 17-July 12, 2024 9am-3pm. Camp meets at Temple Beth El in Aptos with weekly field trips including Skyzone Trampoline Park, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, beach trips and camping in the redwoods at Henry Cowell. Come for the summer fun; stay for the friendships! Email Jess Mitchell with questions: JMitchell@tbeaptos.org

CYT Santa Cruz

216 Mt Hermon Rd. Suite E, Scotts Valley 831.239.3821 cytsantacruz.org

We create a hands-on theater experience focused on building performance skills, self confidence, and

teamwork. CYT summer 2024 presents two different camps, “CYT Goes To The Movies” (one-week camp) for kids ages 4-14 and “The Adams Family” (threeweek camp) for kids ages 8-18 including a weekend of Broadway style perferformances!

Growing Social 408.914.0552

Growingsocial.org

info@growingsocial.org

Growing Social is a highly therapeutic, educational outdoor program offering Summer Camps and school year services to those with social learning differences (including Social Communication Disorder, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, ADD, social anxiety, and those without a formal diagnosis). Farm animals, gardening, cooking, and other creative group activities are utilized to teach and practice social learning concepts. In small groups, students are carefully matched by age (K-young adult) and skill level. Social vocational and camp counselor opportunities for teens and young adults. Sessions are taught by Stephanie Madrigal and Amy Miller, Speech and Language Pathologists

Into the Heart of Nature

Tara Redwood School Campus, 5810 Prescott Rd, Soquel 831.462.9632

office@tararedwoodschool.org

tararedwoodschool.org/summer-camp-2024/

Located on 108 acres of Redwoods, oaks, and sunny meadows bordered by bubbling creeks, our big playground, a sunny clearing in the woods, will be the center of our camp activities of fun games, nature exploration, and nature-themed art. Each week we will focus on one of the essential elements that support all life; earth, water, air, and heat; explored through themes of the forest, ocean, earth, and the universe.

As we learn more about the interconnectedness of our world, children will develop friendships, practice mindfulness, and learn how to care for each other, animals, bugs, and the environment we all share. 9am – 3:00pm, ages 4 - 8.

Kennolyn Day Camps

8205 Hacienda Lane, Soquel 831.479.6714

kennolyncamps.com/santa-cruz-day/

Ready to get your child away from technology and into a nourishing community in the great outdoors?

On 450 acres of privately owned redwood forest only 4 miles from town Kennolyn Day Camp is just a short bus ride away. Your child will thrive in this fun, active, supportive environment. And after a day of exploring the fields, pond, and miles of trails, they’ll be happytired after each fun day! Nowhere else in the local region will you find a more complete, authentic summer day camp experience. Just ask your friends and neighbors.

Kuumbwa Jazz Camp

extension.cabrillo.edu/youth/ kuumbwajazz.org/education

Registration for Kuumbwa’s annual Jazz Camp is now open! Jazz Camp is a performance-based day camp for students grades 8-12. Featuring nine days of collaboration, learning, and listening, this camp covers all aspects of jazz theory and appreciation, and will help students grow as musicians. Camp concludes with a performance on the renowned Kuumbwa Jazz Center stage. Dates: June 10 – June 21, 2024. Location: Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Dr., Aptos, VAPA Complex. Times: Grades 8-9 attend from 9 AM-12 PM; grades 10-12 attend from 11 AM-2 PM. Jazz Camp Concert: Friday, June 21 at Kuumbwa Jazz Center. You can register for the camp online.

Little Garden Patch Farm

4635 Fairway Drive, Soquel 831.476-0964

littlegardenpatchfarm.com

Little Garden Patch is so much more than just a farm! Our play-based, emergent program offers arts & crafts, cooking fun, outdoor play and imagination, stories & games, hands-on science and nature with gardens, farm animals, and social learning. All in a beautiful outdoor setting that includes a puppet theater, play structures, trampoline, sand & water play, outdoor stage, and picnic area. A cozy home environment

and nurturing staff completes a magical childhood wonderland that parents and children love. Come see why young children say, “Little Garden Patch Farm is the best camp I’ve ever been too!” For ages 5-8.

Monte Vista Christian School

2 School Way, Watsonville mvcs.org/camps.

831.722.8178

Slide into summer with a variety of day camps! From athletics to the arts, MVC summer camps include action-packed activities for a wide range of ages and skills, and is open to all who are looking for a fun and memorable experience in a safe and positive environment. Limited spaces are available. Learn more about the full slate of options at mvcs.org/camps.

Mountain of Fun, Mount Madonna School

491 Summit Road, Watsonville 408.847.2717

mountmadonnaschool.org/summer

Summer day camps on Mount Madonna School’s redwood-forested campus: offering three themed Preschool Camp sessions for ages 3-5, June 24-August 2; Elementary and Middle School camps, July 15-August 2, featuring Creative Arts Impact with rock band, culinary arts, visual and digital arts; Outdoor Wilderness Survival Camp with a low ropes course, martial arts, hiking, astronomy, team-building and an overnight campout. Forest play, nature crafts, friends and more – unplugged, outdoors and active! Camps are Monday through Friday, 9:00 am-3:30 pm. Transportation is available. Details and registration online at www.mountmadonnaschool. org/summer.

Parkour Summer Camps

santacruz@parkourgenerations.com 831.266.7604

IG: @pkgensantacruz pkgensantacruz.com/schedule MOVE.PLAY.EXPLORE.GROW. Allow your

kids to un-plug, develop fine & gross motor skills, strength, mental fortitude, creativity, self confidence, flow through the practice of parkour/freerunning. All our coaches keep your child’s health, safety, enrichment – and fun- top of mind! And are qualified by ADAPT; CPR, ACE, AFFA, SafeSport, & CPR certified. Summer Camps in June, July and Aug. Level up your summer, make new friends and make your world a playground with Parkour Generations! Questions? Shoot us an email anytime; santacruz@ parkourgenerations.com We look forward to helping you learn to Master Your Movement ™️ at PARKOUR GENERATIONS Santa Cruz.

Peace United Church of ChristPeace Creation Camp

900 High Street, Santa Cruz www.peaceunited.org

Peace, creation, camp, for ages, 5 to 12, is an interfaith exploration of creation as a gift and ourselves as Stewart’s of that gift. Each day will include a story, music, movement, and an experiment or a craft related to the elements of air, fire, earth, and water. Snacks and T-shirts provided. As leaders at Peace UCC, we aim to protect all children attending our program and give parents peace of mind in knowing they are in good hands. That is why we perform background checks on all of our staff and volunteers. Scholarships and lunch assistance are available. Register Early our enrollment is limited to 30. Please Register at www.peaceunited.org.

Radius Gallery - Everywhere You Look Art Camp

1050 River Street

Studio #127, Santa Cruz 831.706.1620

www.radius.gallery

Everywhere you look…there is art! This week-long immersive art camp will be filled with new ways of seeing, hands-on creative expression, field trips to museums, art studios, and public art. Students will experiment with location drawing, painting, assemblage, bubbles, and collage. Each day will include discussions on creativity, dedicated sketchbook time, and conversations about perspective. Ages 5 - 7 and 8 - 12.

Redwood Music Camps info@CommunityMusicSchool.org CommunityMusicSchool.org

Young musicians explore the music of Ireland, Scotland, and more! For players of violin, viola, flute, penny whistle, recorder, harp, guitar, mandolin, ukulele, accordion, small keyboards, and cello. Students practice in instrument-specific groups, and with the entire ensemble. Crafts include making your own bamboo flute! Teen Camp (June 10-15) is a one-week sleepover camp for ages 12-18 in Aptos. Kid Camp (July 22-Aug 2) is a two-week day camp for ages 7-13 in Scotts Valley; a family concert is on Saturday, August 3rd at 10am. Information and registration is online at CommunityMusicSchool.org.

Riekes Santa Cruz Forest School www.riekessummercamps.org summer@riekes.org

At the Riekes Santa Cruz Forest School, Mother Nature serves as both our teacher and classroom, where work and play are one. Children enjoy selfdirected free play in the forest and meadow at the NEST in Felton, California. Forest School children often develop a deeper respect and sense of wonder for our environment while cultivating social emotional skills that form a foundation for learning. Fridays are our Field Trip Days. Locations may include Natural Bridges, Henry Cowell, or Fall Creek.Register at www. riekessummercamps.org Scholarships are available. For more information please email: summer@riekes.org

Santa Cruz Gymnastics

831.462-0655

info@scgym.com

Beginning June 3rd, we will be offering Gymnastics Camps for ages 5–12! Come FLIP WITH US at our weekly themed camps. Camps include gymnastics lessons on all Olympic events, supervised open gym time, group games, crafts and time in our foam pit! Full and half day options are available for each weekly camp. Check scgym.com for more information and to register.

Santa Cruz Soccer Camp 831.316.3138

santacruzsoccercamp.com

Join us for our 40th summer! We focus on fun and learning through enjoyment to build skills, be active, and enjoying the summer! We offer 8 weeks of camp during the summer for kids ages 5-14. We practice tucked in the redwoods of the beautiful Delaveaga Park. Most of our experienced staff have grown up in our program through our Leadership Development Program and we look forward to seeing the next generation of campers come through!

Santa Cruz SPCA 2601 Chanticleer Ave, Santa Cruz 831.566.3753 alisons@spcasc.org

spcasc.org/events/summer-animalolympics-camp-2024/

Our 2024 camp theme is “Animal Olympics.” Campers will learn about animals that achieve amazing feats of speed, height and agility and will test our shelter animals in “Olympic” contests. The children will work and play with our shelter dogs and cats daily and make treats and enrichments for them.

Santa Cruz Waldorf Redwood Summer Camp

Santa Cruz Waldorf School, PreK-8 2190 Empire Grade Santa Cruz 831.425.0519

santacruzwaldorf.org

Kinder-campers (Age 5 by Jan 1, 2023) Grades-Campers (entering 1st - 5th grades)

June 17- Jun 28th M-F 8:30-3:30 weekly $425

July 1-3 M-W 8:30-3:30 $250

July 8-26 M-F 8:30-3:30 weekly $425

Redwood Summer Camp at Santa Cruz Waldorf School provides children with an unforgettable summer experience. Two camps have screen-free activities tailored to age groups that make camp engaging, relaxed and fun in a friendly, wholesome atmosphere on our beautiful campus. The Redwood Summer camp program provides children with plenty of time for free play and movement alongside opportunities to learn, create and spend time among the redwood trees on and adjacent to campus.

Seven Directions Creative Learning Center

831.713.9392

sevendirectionsinfo@gmail.com sevendirections.org

Seven Directions has fun and creative summer camps for kids ages 5 & up! Art, science, theater, table top role playing games and so much more! Whether your kid loves animals or anime, fairies or Pokémon, practical or digital art, theater or science, exploring nature here in Santa Cruz or exploring the realms of imagination in Dungeons & Dragons, there is something for everyone at Seven Directions. And nearly every camp gets daily interactions with our 35+ live exotic animals! Join us at our bright and lively studio space at the entrance to downtown Santa Cruz or meet us on site at some of Santa Cruz’s most beautiful scenic locations. Make friends, express creativity and keep learning alive during the summer months with Seven Directions Summer Camps!

Summer at Santa Catalina 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey 831.655.9386 summercamp@santacatalina.org santacatalina.org/summercamp

It’s a girl thing! Summer at Santa Catalina, open to girls ages 8-14 in grades 3-9, is offering three 2-week sessions, a 5-week session for our musical theatre program, and three 1-week mini-camp sessions for campers in grades 2-5. Each session has day and overnight options, with all of our campers participating in exciting classes, community building, and fun-filled allcamp activities! We intentionally build our community to create opportunities for campers to try new things, build independent and creative thinking skills, gain a sense of personal and community responsibility, and learn to access their own powerful inner resources.

Web of Life Field (WOLF) School

220 Cloister Ln, Aptos

831.684-0148

wolfschool.org

WOLF School’s Summer Nature Day Camp offers a science and nature theme all week and an outdoor adventure every day! 5-11 year olds will experience redwood trail walks, music, arts & crafts, cooperative games, science activities, and more, plus field trips to Nisene Marks and the Newt Pond. Sample themes are: Solar, Survival, Creek, Animals, Plants, and Natural History. WOLF School’s educational nature camps inspire kids to experience the outdoors, connect to nature, build healthy relationships, and gain awareness of their impact on environment and community—all in a fun camp setting led by our knowledgeable, friendly, and energetic naturalists.

WEST Performing Arts

831.425.9378

Santa Cruz westperformingarts.com

Summer 2024…CREATIVE CHAOS! Get ready for next level imagination with our award-winning youth theatre company for ages 6 -18. Our unique, process-based theatre and art classes, camps, and conservatory-style studies encourage young performers to embark on a creative journey and craft their own performance experience full of innovative collaboration, From immersive theatre-based day camps to original plays and classic productions or improvisation to hone your funny bone. We have it all. Come play! Our classes, training programs, and presentations are process-driven, believing that the creative journey is what matters. We build confidence, communication, and community.

“What happens on stage at WEST Performing Arts is amazing. What happens inside the kids, from blossoming confidence to reignited enthusiasm, is miraculous.”

Bryn Kanar, a WEST parent

ENRICHMENT

Adventures with Art hello@adventureswithart.com adventureswithart.com

Let your child’s creativity run wild this summer! Adventures with Art is a website that offers tips and tutorials for a number of different art forms, including drawing, painting, digital art with Procreate, crochet, embroidery, and more. Run by an artist who was born and raised in Aptos, Diana loves to share her art knowledge with other artists of all skill levels at adventureswithart.com

Chartwell School

2511 Numa Watson Road, Seaside 831.394.3468

chartwell.org/summer

Chartwell School, located on 60 acres in Seaside, CA, serves students with dyslexia and other related learning differences who are not currently reaching their full potential. We do this in grades 1-12 by providing targeted and direct instruction to empower learners with the skills, strategies, tools, and social-emotional mindset they need to thrive in college and beyond. Summer@Chartwell is a threeweek program that emphasizes literacy, math, STEAM, and enrichment skills.

Drawn2Art Studios

19C Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center, Aptos 831.661.5652

Aptos@Drawn2ArtStudios.com drawn2artclasses.com

We offer a high quality, fine art drawing and painting program that goes far beyond cut and paste, and arts & crafts. Inspirational teachers help students build skills and confidence. Curriculum is varied to include still-life, landscape, animals, portraiture, Anime and more. Students, ages 4-12, teens and adults, begin by using drawing mediums, then move onto painting. Join Us for a Trial Art Class. Classes scheduled ahead of time, based on availability. Sign up by or before April 30th, Receive $25.00 OFF each Summer Camp. New Students ONLY Pay Registration Fee. Each camp is themed! Come Join Us for a Fun-Filled Day!

Growing

Freedom Schoolhouse and Farm freedomschoolhouseandfarm.com

Freedom Schoolhouse and Farm offers a unique program in a beautiful setting. Our curriculum is emergent with a strong emphasis on creating a connection to the natural world. We seek to promote and maintain basic principles of Freedom, with the goal of educating our children to be critical thinkers. Our open classroom creates a warm environment, and we encourage freedom of choice and relationship building. Set on several acres, every day is filled with the beauty of nature, joys of friendship, and fun activities geared toward artistic expression, physical movement, and the development of a lifelong love of learning

International Academy of Dance (IAD) 320 Encinal Street, Santa Cruz 831.466.0458 info@iadance.com iadance.com

Spend the summer dancing! We’re offering 7 different weeks of magic and fun, so choose your theme and come join us for movement games, art, and dancing! Perfect for ages 4-8, our camps offer a playground for imagination to thrive. We even have Early Drop-Off/Late Pick-Up Options, with an After Party happening until 2pm for maximum fun (and ease for parents). If you’d like to get started before summer, sign up for a trial class now! Just visit our website, iadance.com. We also have classes for older kids, teens, parents, and grandparents. We can’t wait to dance with you!

Make a splash at the Monterey Bay Aquarium www.montereybayaquarium.org/ UnderwaterExplorers

Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our summer Underwater Explorers program. During this 90-minute program they’ll get the experience of taking a surface SCUBA dive in our Great Tide Pool, just off the Aquarium’s back deck. In this unique program, kids will see the ocean like never before and make lasting memories as they connect to marine life. No diving experience or equipment is needed — just a sense of wonder! Let’s make waves! For questions, please call us at 831.648.4800, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily. Tickets available for purchase online at www. montereybayaquarium.org/UnderwaterExplorers

Music Together/MusicalMe, Inc.

Locations throughout Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County

Call/Text: 831.332.9002

registrar@musicalme.com musicalme.com

Come join the fun at our Music Together classes – where magical moments happen through playful, rich, and engaging music experiences! Let your little ones, from babies to preschoolers, explore their inner music maker alongside you, their favorite grown-up. Our music and movement classes are not only a blast but also provide essential support for your child’s early development. Summer-only special: Unlimited Bonus Classes! Join us now and create beautiful memories together.

Santa Cruz Public Libraries (SCPL)

Aptos: 7695 Soquel Ave, Aptos

Boulder Creek: 13390 West Park Ave, Boulder Creek

Branciforte: 230 Gault St, Santa Cruz

Capitola: 2005 Wharf Rd, Capitola

Downtown: 224 Church St, Santa Cruz

Felton: 6121 Gushee St, Felton

Garfield Park: 705 Woodrow Ave, Santa Cruz

La Selva Beach: 316 Estrella Ave, La Selva Beach

Live Oak: 2380 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz

Scotts Valley: 251 Kings Valley Rd, Scotts Valley

Santa Cruz Public Libraries (SCPL) is your partner for student success. SCPL provides online and in-person educational resources and K-12 homework help. Students can access research databases, take practice tests, check out a laptop or tablet, or join one of our programs (like chess club or the diverse youth meetup). SCPL also provides early literacy resources and educational programs for toddlers and young children. Find a book to share with your child, stop by for a storytime, or check out one of the online resources. Visit SantaCruzPL.org and

follow us on social media @santacruzpl.

Quote from patrons: What is your favorite memory of the library?

“Visiting the library on a rainy day. The sound of rain and smell of books is always so nice .” ~ Danielle

“Hanging out upstairs in the downtown branch with the kids on a rainy day.” ~ Tabitha

“All the story time and crafts for my preschooler!” ~ Chelsea

SERVICES

Youth Cruz Free on Metro scmtd.com/youthcruzfree.

K-12 students can ride METRO for free! Buses serve 24 routes that provide convenient transportation throughout Santa Cruz County. Whether it’s to school, work, the beach or hanging out with friends, students may ride any route in the METRO system for free except Highway 17 Express service. Riders in 8th grade and under may be asked by the driver to identify their grade level or school. Riders in grades 9-12 will be asked to show ID. For help, call Customer Service (831) 425-8600 or email youthcruzfree@scmtd. com. For more information visit scmtd.com/youthcruzfree.

“Our youth are the future of transit. The Youth Cruz Free program is a big step toward giving all kids the access to METRO they deserve.” ~ METRO CEO/General Manager

SPORTS

Jim Booth Swim School

Watsonville 831.722.3500

Jimboothswimschool.com

Be a water wonder! Lessons for all ages! From our Little Otters swim class for parents and their babies to our adult beginner class. The whole family can splash together at Jim Booth Swim School. Little Otters is a gentle introduction to our 94-degree indoor pool that will make you confident that you are guiding your infant to a happy water experience. Our lessons emphasize quality swimming in an exciting class taught by our caring, well-qualified teachers. Developmental swim team and advanced swim lessons will be offered at our outdoor pool located in Watsonville at Toadal fitness. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School!

Junebug’s Gym

3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz

831.464.BUGS (2847)

JuneBugsGym.com

June Bug’s Gym is a place where your child can experience a fun-filled adventure in movement. We have a caring, respectful staff that encourages every child to grow at their own pace while supporting social, emotional, and cognitive development. Our goal is to promote confidence and self-esteem in our students, open up their imaginations, and help them experience the joy of movement in an everchanging environment designed to test their skills.