Growing Up in Santa Cruz April 2024

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.

Introducing Your Monthly Guide to Family Finance Education

I’m really excited to introduce you to a new column this month and every month about family financial fitness (on page 14). It’s something I’ve wanted since we purchased this magazine, a place to help parents and kids learn about finance.

Let’s face it, money management is not taught in schools, but it sure should be. It’s one of the most important life lessons but is virtually ignored in classrooms. And it’s not something you want to learn through trial and error, because errors cost!

When I was a kid, my grandfather gave me some shares of stock so I could learn about the market. I tracked it every day and read up on it. We’re talking fifth grade here. The stock was Pan Am, which started off strong and ended up broke. There was a big life lesson there, one I keep to this day.

But honestly, I’m still a fifth grader when it comes to managing money. I need all the help and education I can get, and I imagine a lot of readers are in the same boat.

Catch the Social Media Wave

Don’t miss the Growing Up in Santa Cruz videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. To promote your business to thousands of viewers in the area each week, email editor@growingupsc.com or call (408) 656-1519.

Along came our new partner, Bay Federal Credit Union, which has amazing links to education resources on its home page and will share monthly tips in Growing Up. They even have a category under FInancial Wellness for kids, teens and young adults. (bayfed.com).

No wonder they are so far ahead of the curve, I realized when we researched the credit union. It was founded in 1957 by a group of teachers and named the Santa Cruz County Teachers Federal Credit Union. The first loan it made was used to purchase a baby crib for $50. Teachers, right? No wonder they know how to educate us on finances.

As a parent, there’s no one I respect more than teachers. The credit union started downtown and expanded to Capitola in 1995, moving from just being a teacher’s credit union to one that accepted all community members in 1997. Their CEO Carrie Birkhofer has been with them since 1989, a rare woman in the top of the industry.

“We are very excited to be partnering with Growing Up in Santa Cruz,” shares Birkhofer. “Our mission is to make a real difference in the financial lives of our community members, and there’s no better way to do that than by helping the next generation grow up with the financial knowledge they need to succeed.”

I’m so glad we are on the same page. If you have financial questions you’d like answered, please send them to editor@growingupsc.com and we’ll pass them along.

Also, if you have suggestions for what other columns we should run about things not being taught in schools, please send them too. (I’d like farming, (which actually is taught at my kid’s school); meditation, negotiation, AI, programming, healthy eating and cooking, and an earlier start to learning languages…those are just off the top of my head. Send us your ideas, please

Also, let me remind you that Kids Day is May 4 this year, when Downtown Santa Cruz will be filled with activities for all kids. It’s one of the great family-friendly activities in town. We look forward to seeing you there. We’ll have temporary tattoos and maps for everyone.

Thanks for reading,

Brad Kava, Editor and Publisher

By Addie Mahmassani

“I like to play in the sand, and I like to look for shells.”

What Do You Like To Do at the Beach?

The sun is back! The kids are out and about again, enjoying all the beauty Santa Cruz has to offer. This month I’ve been trying to take advantage of the weather to explore some places I love. The boardwalk is one of them! There’s nothing better than hanging out at a beach flanked by a Ferris wheel, wharf and rollercoaster as the sun goes down. Then, when the chilly spring night arrives, it’s time to go rack up some points at Neptune’s Kingdom. This is what childhood is made of.

Wesley, 7

“I like to look for cool stuff in the sand.”

Maxon, 14 Visiting from LA “There’s a lot of different stuff. I can’t wait to go to the beach and swim. It’s very colorful here, very vibrant. It’s more inviting than most places. LA’s more modern, a little bit more techy. It’s very kidfriendly here and, I feel, more inclusive.”

Jared, 14 Visiting from LA “Mainly the arcade games—my favorite is air hockey. I’m excited to go swim. I’m just excited to be in the waves. We’re on a school trip.”

Jasper, 14 Visiting from LA

“Mini-golf. I like it because it’s a step down from golfing, and you can still have a lot of fun competing with your friends hitting the ball.”

Kimberly, 9 Visiting from Gilroy

“I like to play in the sand and, on hot days, in the little river.”

Johanna, 7 Visiting from Gilroy

Main Street Elementary

Shared Adventures Helps Disabled Enjoy Outdoor Activities

For 30 Years, Group Has Provided Opportunities That Would Never Have Been Possible

The name says it all! What Foster Andersen, founder and CEO, has cultivated over the past 30 years is many Shared Adventures for the disabled community.

The non-profit organizes activities for disabled folks so they can do what they thought they couldn’t. This isn’t just activities like rock-wall climbing, sailing, kayaking, whale watching, gardening and archery. Many disabled people struggle with not feeling capable of doing some of the things that those of us who have not suffered some sort of injury, congenital or birth anomaly take for granted.

“When I started Shared Adventures, I was filling a void,” said Foster. “The disabled community was so disconnected from itself. I had suffered a spinal cord injury when I was 17 from a motorcycle accident. My two-wheel motorcycle turned into a four-wheel manual chair, so I had to continue to try to do something different every step of the way to expand what my body was capable of. I saw myself as the guinea pig trying things that no other wheelchair user did. I wanted to show that if I can do it, anyone can do it.”

Foster grew up in a beautiful part of upstate New York and his family did all sorts of adventurous activities together. They were a loving family and enjoyed spending time in nature together before his accident. They would camp a lot as a family and were always active.

“It was in our blood, our bones to do anything together; hunting, skiing, canoeing, sailing, motorbiking. I was always encouraged to try new things and I had a love for inventing new things too,” said Foster.

When he moved to Santa Cruz in 1990, he saw an opportunity to provide better support for the disabled community. His answer walked through the door of an adaptive Physical Education class at Cabrillo College. It was pro surfer, Terry Simms, who asked everyone, “Who wants to go surfing?”

That next weekend, a big burly volunteer carried Foster down the steps at Pleasure Point, changed him into a wetsuit and carried him into the ocean,

gently placing him on a surfboard. Foster looked out over the horizon at the white water of a wave barreling toward him. “That huge wall of water was scary, but I came out the other side shining like a light.” This was the day when Foster found something that would change not only his life, but the lives of many others for the next 30 years to come.

“Terry was on the back of the longboard as we waited for a wave. The anticipation built, and soon enough a perfect wave came along as we were riding high. I felt like a hood ornament on a car. We flew past other surfers cheering us on. It was one of the best experiences of my life!”

Two years later, Shared Adventures of Santa Cruz was born and has since helped countless people with disabilities to enjoy adventures they didn’t realize they could. The organization offers activities where participants enjoy the camaraderie and enriching aspect of various events.

Every summer, the carpenter’s union builds a city on the beach using plywood and 2x4s for platforms to make it easier to get across the sand and into the water for Day on the Beach, which is super-successful thanks to all the Shared Adventures volunteers and their partners at Monterey Bay National

Marine Sanctuary.

The organization has enhanced the lives of over a thousand individuals in the disabled and special needs community on the Central Coast. Each person has a unique story to tell about how the activities changed their lives.

The aim is to get people to interact socially, doing something they thought they couldn’t do anymore. Once they figure out that they can, they are inspired to do even more. Amazing things open up for them.

They come out of their shells, start talking after being shy or quiet or even get a job – all from being a part of a team event like an outrigger canoe race.

From a business standpoint, 2023 was one of the best years ever for Shared Adventures. The organization received support from the Omaga Nu, Disney Foundation, Caroline’s Thrift Shop, St. John’s Episcopal Church and many generous individuals. Fundraising in the Santa Cruz Gives campaign brought in over $50,000 – the second highest amount among all the non-profits who participated.

As the organization moves into 2024, the staff and management team are focused on and committed to creating a full-year of fantastic activities, including Day on the Beach and Camp Adventures.

DAY IN THE PARK

Shared Adventures is celebrating its 30th Anniversary as a non-profit and recognizing Autism Awareness Month. Together with San Lorenzo Neighbors and Autism Family Network, Shared Adventures will host a Day in the Park, noon to 4pm at San Lorenzo Park, near the duck stage on Saturday, April 13.

DAY ON THE BEACH

Join Shared Adventures at Cowells Beach on Saturday, July 13, 2024, for its 30th Annual Day on the Beach!

For details on these events and many other projects in collaboration with Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation, Friends of the State Parks, County Parks Rx and Visit Santa Cruz County, please visit sharedadventures.org

The Day on the Beach Event is always a fun day for all who attend.

Last month we ran an editorial against spending a fortune on a train that would not serve the interests of commuters, despite claims that it would. Response from readers was mixed, with about 3/4ths of the letters against the train. Here’s a sample.

We Need a Clean Light Rail

As a matter of fact, I would of course use clean light rail, I am not some rail lobbyist. How often? As much as possible. I attended a game last week at SC high at 4pm. We went to dinner afterward because as You may or may not know, there is no sense in traveling southbound during commute hours. The rail stop would have been near Depot Park downtown.

If the clean light rail was running We could have left the car at home and rode from Aptos to there. I do believe We need an alternative to a highway that takes sometimes 90 minutes to travel 12 miles And what of the all important visitors? Is it not true that many come from the hot central valleys to cool off at Our beaches?

Could they someday leave Their cars at the Pajaro station and take light rail to within walking distance of some of the best county beaches? What about the Davenport line?

What is going to happen to the old cement plant and would rail be a fit for the potential population the area may see? How about going to connect at Pajaro and traveling to say, a Giants or Warriors game, saving the hassle of parking and driving and instead enjoying the ride with family and other fans?

We do not have a large population, it is true but that point is misguided due to the fact that We only have a single highway to travel North and South through the county.We are currently on track to spend some 400 million dollars and remove close to a thousand mature native trees.It sickens me.

Furthermore the environmental destruction due to automobile use is entirely too destructive to continue. We see poisoning of fish from tire waste, butterfly populations declining due to loss of habitat and ammonia emissions from catalytic converters and more

Something has to change and soon. People would be much healthier if they were to walk a few blocks from light rail stops. That trail is being built along with the new lanes and considerations are rightly in place for rail feasibility. I wonder how much funding you think would have been achieved for the trail if rail transit was not also considered. Forced abandonment and unlikely railbanking would have tied up trail progress for years.

Those landowners mentioned include Miles Reiter and the Ow family to name just a couple. Yes, railbanking would mean payouts to Them if the rail right of way is lost. We lost a vital link to Silicon Valley because of folks being spoiled by cars.

We would be wise to not let it happen again. When planning for the future don’t You think it would be wise to consider the past?

~ Frank Rimicci, Jr.

We Need Robust Infrastructure

It’s wild and disheartening to me that folks are pushing back against the development of infrastructure because it take time to build and because they would not use it, Perhaps not everything is about YOU or ME, specifically. Perhaps it’s about the future and the folks who will inherit that future.

Perhaps it’s about the fact that loads and loads of studies have proven we cannot keep relying on single passenger vehicles. Widening freeways and adding more cars has been proven ineffective at best, and physically and environmentally harmful at worst.

To answer your specific question , i would use it regularly, just like I use rail regularly whenever I am visiting my family overseas, just like I use it regularly when I’m in the Bay Area. If rail were here I’d be able to get rid of my car, reducing my overall living costs, and rely primarily on my bike and public transportation for travel, whether for pleasure of work.

While I do regularly ride the bus in town, we need something more robust to support more folks.

Not everyone can ride a bike or walk a trail so we must be thinking of accessibility for as many people as possible when developing infrastructure. A cyclist and nature lover, I love trails and us them regularly. As a community member focused on not just the present, but the future of our community and its members’ well-being, I value robust and diverse infrastructure that accommodates travel in a more environmentally conscious, sustainable and meaningful way.

~ Victoria Nobles

Not Many People Would Use the Train Consistently

I have never heard ONE person say they’d use the train consistently. Sure they’d use it to have a fun day with the kids, or take visitors on a ride, but no one has EVER said they’d use it daily, or even a few times a week. I rid the American River Parkway in Folsom a lot and so do hundreds of people. It’s 32 miles of fun. Image being able to ride in Santa Cruz without fear of being hit by a car.

~ Beth Anderson Moorehead

Our Community is Way Behind Transportation Movement

Thanks Brad. Unfortunately, prudence, logic, data and facts are not part of this conversation. If they were we’d already have a cross-country tree-lined trail being used by 2-3 million happy, healthy users each year, an economic engine for our community and worldwide eco-tourism magnet. All built with Measure D money we already have. Our community is way behind the active transportation movement - rails-to-trails are being built and winning converts across the country. When I shared the cost of Section 7b ($12-$15 million for .8 mile, yes you read that right 8/10s of 1 mile) with a couple from western PA whose community built 18 miles for 500K, they were shocked (check out their trail at tricountyrailstotrails.org). Go figure.

~ Tim Brattan

I Would Ride the Train Regularly

Thanks for asking. Yes I would ride the train consistently. The tracks are a comfortable walking distance from my home. To get to Capitola now, I’d take two buses. One train would take less than half the time. One important thing about a railroad: it stays put. Bus routes change all the time. But a fixed rail means businesses and clinics can group next to the tracks. No one will switch their habits instantly, but in time, many people will discover the ease of traveling by train.

~ Cara Lamb

Trails Countrywide

A trail-only would get so much use! There are miles of tracks turned into trails all over the country, and they are heavily traveled. No one advocating for a train, that I know of, will be a regular rider.

~ Amy Anderson

Waste of Our Money

Thank you, Brad. I too would never use that proposed train for my commuting needs.For shared commuting I have used a van pool very effectively.I am so concerned about how we are literally throwing away our county tax resources on a train project where there is not ridership to pay for it. We are spending millions upon millions to create a permanent forever financial burden that will suck up our limited county funds year after year to pay for a train that can’t pay for itself. Our families need the county to prioritize resources to really support their needs.

~Elisabeth Blythe Bertrand

TEACHER’S DESK

Cigs, Vapes and Now Zyn

BY SUSAN TATSUI-D’ARCY

Do you know what Zyn is? Have you heard of the “upper-decky lip pillow? If you have tween or teen children or grandchildren, hang on because you need to be in the know. Zyn is the smokeless alternative to vapes, and vapes was the less-noticeable form of smoking cigarettes.

Zyn is a nicotine pouch that is placed under your lip like chewing tobacco or tobacco dip. It is less visible than vapes because there are no cartridges or battery pens, and certainly inconspicuous next to cigarettes and smoke.

Zyn comes in 2 strengths: 3- and 6-milligram pouches. The nicotine ingredient is very addictive – especially for young tweens.

First-time users often vomit or pass out when experimenting with the 6 milligram pouches. Zyn is packaged in tins that contain 16 little white rectangles – AKA lip cushions. Dentists have reported gum injuries and concerns about the toxic chemicals in the pouches that can cause periodontal and gum disease in patients who use Zyn. They are known to increase heart rate and blood pressure. The nicotine can also negatively affects kids’ mental health.

At first, they may feel a sense of relaxation that is short lived and followed up with a spike in edginess and anxiety that ultimately causes a vicious cycle of needing relaxation to offset their anxiety. And because Zyn is highly addictive, it adds another layer of mental agitation.

Still this is such a new craze that there hasn’t been enough time to understand all of the risks associated with these little nicotine pouches. Phillip Morris International purchased Swedish Match (the Zyn-brand manufacturer) in early 2023 (barely a year ago) and they expect to make $2 billion by end of 2024. Rogue, Lix, and Velo are also popular Zyn alternatives.

The many companies that produce nicotine pouches are hoping to hook young kids on their brands so they’ll have customers for life. Instead of big billboards, magazine ads, or TV commercials, these manufacturers advertise on social media targeting specific age groups.

They also use influencers who are like the popular kids that most kids want to follow. Known as Zynfluencers,

they send powerful messages using TikTok videos to young kids about how cool it is to Zyn and how much fun it is to have that little blast of energy.

Unlike smoking cigarettes where parents can smell the smoke or vaping where parents find vape pens and other paraphernalia, Zyn is almost undetectable. Students Zyn in class and at home.

Most teachers and parents don’t know about Zyn so students are gravitating to it. Since 2014, Zyn has been increasing in popularity and many consider it the new vape.

Even the most concerned parents face daunting odds of positively influencing their children about Zyn. Advertisers and Zynfluencers are on youth social media feeds brainwashing them for hours each day. Parents don’t see the same ads or TikTok videos because marketing companies create algorhythms to target this young demographic.

It’s not like it was when I was a kid. Back then, parents saw the same ads and commercials that the kids saw, and they could restrict what their children read and TV shows they watched. We read real books and magazines (paper), and we all watched the same shows and movies on our one TV set in the house. Most kids today are on their smartphones or tablets for hours without parental oversight.

Parents, you need to understand Zyn. Frame the truth about how Zyn negatively affects your children’s health before they get pulled into Zyn with friends. Be proactive and open the discussion.

and backpacks. Limit screen time to one hour per night so they choose how they want to spend that precious hour. Talk to them about ads, influencers, and other bombardment of information. Parents, you have an important role to play as your child’s chief advocate. Open the discussion and be involved in every aspect of your child’s life because you are fighting an invisible enemy in a cyberbattleground that can infiltrate your child’s mind and behavior.

By framing the idea that Zyn nicotine pouches are a marketing ploy to make young kids addicted for life, you may have a chance to ward off the inevitable dilemma in the first place. Parents, you have the right to check your children’s smartphones, tablets

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. meritworld.com

STUDENT’S VIEW

How Silence Can Speak A Thousand Words

BY SION ERKILETIAN

National Day of Silence was a foreign concept to me until my freshman year in high school. National Day of Silence is a national peaceful protest where queer people and allies participate in a vow of silence to bring attention to the discrimination that queer individuals experience.

I quickly learned that it is not just about silence; it is a powerful statement. The silence speaks volumes—it is a testament to the struggles, the resilience, and the solidarity of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and its allies.

When I first heard of the National Day of Silence, I felt inspired and eager to make the day count for activism and awareness. I was ready to lend my silence as a voice for those who had been silenced by discrimination, bigotry, and hate. When I woke up on a crisp Friday morning, I was prepared to rest my

vocal cords and stay silent for the queer individuals who have suffered from discrimination. I had a sticky note explaining I was participating in the vow of silence so I could inform teachers and fellow students. Many other students were unaware of this event and swiftly joined in by resting their voices for the day to bring awareness. I went the rest of the day

without uttering a syllable.

Every moment I was silent, I was in deep thought about the plethora of hate this nation has seen, but also how far the LGBTQIA2S+ community has come.

At the end of the school day, our school’s Queer Straight Alliance and everyone who participated in the National Day of Silence, “broke their silence” and reflected on their experience. I have participated every year since that day, which has profoundly impacted me. My next year participating, I was familiar with the territory. I noticed many more allies and students participated and took it much more seriously.

This day made me truly reflect on how much of an impact the queer community can have on each other. For me, and for countless others in Santa Cruz County and beyond, the National Day of Silence holds a special significance.

It is a day that reminds us of

our shared humanity, our shared struggles, and our shared dreams of a world where love knows no bounds and silence is no longer necessary to be heard. The more people participate in this vow of silence, the stronger our community will become.

The National Day of Silence has evolved from a distant concept to a deeply personal and transformative experience for me.

As I’ve witnessed the evolution of participation and awareness, I’ve realized the transformative power of collective action. Every vow of silence, every shared moment of reflection, contributes to a broader movement towards equality and acceptance.

Sion Erkiletian, they/them, is a 16-yearold junior at Delta High School in Aptos. They are part of Santa Cruz County’s Queer and Trans Youth Council and Youth for Environmental Action. Sion has a passion for social justice and animals. Sion has always sought to make a difference in their county.

BIRTH MATTERS

Support Families in Need by Donating Milk

BY LAURA MAXSON LM

For 50 years the Mothers Milk Bank of San Jose has been providing human milk to babies in need, making it the longest running milk bank in the country. Milk banking has changed over time, with the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) instituting processes to make banked milk safer and more accessible. All milk is tested and pasteurized before use.

On May 2, from 10am-2pm, Watsonville Community Hospital will be hosting the Santa Cruz County Breastfeeding Coalition’s annual Milk Drive in celebration of Mother’s Day.

This free event will include an opportunity to make Mother’s Day related crafts, win a door prize, or other gifts. The Mother’s Milk Bank, along with WIC, and other member organizations of the Santa Cruz County Breastfeeding Coalition will be on hand to share their services and resources with families.

While the Mother’s Milk Bank will be accepting frozen breastmilk donations at the event, all are invited to come learn more about milk banking – and maybe be inspired to become a donor. Usually, 100 ounces is the minimum accepted for a donation, however no amount of milk donated at the milk drive event will be turned away.

Vetted milk will be processed and pasteurized before distribution to babies in need, and milk that doesn’t

HUMAN MILK DRIVE

May 2, 10am-2pm at Watsonville Hospital

5 Nielson St, Watsonville Mother’s Milk Bank - Mothersmilk.org

877.375.6645

santacruzhealth.org – search Breastfeeding CoalitionBir

meet requirements for any reason used in research.

Banked human milk is now often covered by insurance. Years ago, it was only available to the tiniest of preemies and sickest babies, but banked milk is now available to many more infants in need.

The World Health Organization (WHO), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and many others recognize the importance of human milk, especially for the first year of life.

Breast/human milk feeding exclusively for the first six months is particularly helpful in supporting optimal growth and development, and in protecting against many diseases, allergies, infections and more.

The recognition of the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months has allowed the expansion of human milk donation to go beyond only treating ill babies.

Now there is availability of this important resource to families who may not be able to provide babies any or enough of their own milk, including those in foster care, experiencing low

milk supply, or medical indications/ medications that conflict with lactation.

While some parents weigh the risks and choose to casually share breastmilk between families, it’s important to know that HMBANA does not endorse casual milk sharing, instead striving to make donor milk available to all who need it. This means the more milk donors the better.

Donated milk comes from those chest/breastfeeding parents who would like to contribute to the health and wellbeing of other babies. There have been one-time donations from a freezer stash of milk that is no longer needed, to donors who pump extra milk daily, specifically for the milk bank, sending their milk on a regular basis.

A very special group of donors are those who have lost babies and when their milk came in, they looked to the milk bank to find some healing in a tragic situation. The 100-ounce minimum for donations is waived for bereaved parents and any amount of

milk is accepted.

Some donors get screened before collecting milk to donate and others decide to donate when they realize they’re producing plenty of milk or have a mega stash in their freezer. In any case, all donors begin by answering some quick questions online about their medical history (mothersmilk.org/ donate-milk) or by phone (877.375.6645 (option 3). This is followed up with a few more forms and a blood test, with all costs paid for by the milk bank.

The Mother’s Milk Bank would like to make it easier for Santa Cruz County parents to donate milk by locating a collection depot somewhere in the county to drop off frozen milk. Those who might be interested in becoming a collection depot can find out more at the May 2, event or contact the Milk Bank for more information.

POSITIVE DISCIPLINE PARENTING

Create a Cozy Corner to Increase Peace in Your Home

BY HANNAH STUBBLEFIELD

WHAT IS A COOL DOWN ZONE?

Everyone needs to take a break sometimes. Creating a cool down zone in your home can be a simple and effective way to normalize big feelings and encourage emotional regulation. This space can be very small and simple; it doesn’t need to be extravagant or expensive.

You also do not need to have a big home. A cool down zone can be a small corner of a room with some favorite pillows, stuffed animals and books that you already have. The idea is that there’s a spot in your home that is intentionally set up as a place that anyone can go to when they are feeling stressed, frustrated, sad, or when they just need to take a break.

SOME DOS AND DON’TS

DO- set up your cool down zone with your kid(s), not for your kid(s). When children are involved in creating a new space, they are much more likely to feel excited about it. Their buy-in is critical for this space to be used effectively. Decorate the wall with some pictures or stickers that they like, have them help pick out what pillows and stuffies will go there, and ask them if they have any ideas about anything else they’d like to include

DO- Ask open-ended questions like: “What helps you feel better when you’re feeling sad or frustrated?” You might offer suggestions of what might be helpful for the space, such as soothing music, sensory toys, books, etc., but let the child make most of the decisions so that they feel ownership of the space. Also feel free to come up with a special name for your cool out zone as a family. DO- make the space soft, cozy and calming (not over-stimulating).

DON’T- create a cool down zone when your child is not home and then show it to them and explain it to them once they arrive. This can lead to resistance about the idea, rather that excitement about it.

DON’T- use any screens or digital devices as a part of the cool down zone. It is important for children to learn to self-soothe and selfregulate without relying on a screen.

TIME OUT?

Sometimes a cool down zone can be misused as a time-out area. It is very important that this cozy area is not used for punishment. It is meant to be a place that anyone in the home can choose to go to when they need to take a break.

Parents can ask their child if they’d like to go to their cool down zone if they notice their child is upset, but the child is free to make that choice or to make another choice. I find it’s usually best not to suggest it in the moment while the child is upset, but rather talk about the cool down zone regularly (during neutral times) so that it becomes an idea that the child can think of on their own the next time they need a break.

Positive Discipline teaches that children do better when they feel better. Time-outs are not recommended because they typically make children feel worse. Research shows that punitive time-out is ineffective because forced separation denies the basic human need for inclusion and belonging.

For over 20 years, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

has recommended replacing punitive time-out as well as all discipline techniques that pose pain and suffering. Cool down zones are a great alternative to traditional time-outs, and the concept of having a cool down zone available as a choice is sometimes referred to as a Positive Time-Out.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MODELING

It can be very powerful to model going to the cool down zone in your home when you feel frustrated and to model taking some deep breaths or doing a calming activity.

For me, I found an alternative way to model the habit of taking a break when I felt frustrated. I knew this was an important skill to model for my young kids, but I didn’t feel that going to my home’s cool down zone really helped me.

I talked to my kids about Mommy’s cool down zone being the backyard. I told them that being outside and breathing fresh air can help me when I need a break. Going outside to my own cool down zone not only modeled this important skill for my kids, but it also helped me become a less reactive parent.

When I started to feel my jaw tighten, or feel hot (both are physical signs for me that I’m getting triggered and going into my fight or flight part of my brain), I would go outside, take some deep breaths and wait until I felt more calm.

YOUR FAMILY’S COOL DOWN ZONE

Send GUISC pictures of your family’s cool down zone and tell us what you call it in your home. What are your family’s favorite calming books, fidgets, or stuffies? Any cool down zone success stories? We’d love to hear from you!

Hannah Stubblefield is a certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator.  She is a former teacher and current co-owner of Wonderland Toys & Classroom Resources in Aptos.  She is wife to Chris, step-mom to Sebastian, boy-mom to Adam, girl-mom to Maya, and dog-mom to Samson.  Check out her upcoming in-person parenting classes at the Family Circle Center in Aptos starting April 1, 2024

Assess Your Stability During Financial Literacy Month

Here are Some Tips to Empower Your Financial Future

BY STEVE DINNEN

Americans say their financial health is a top priority. Maybe a top source of anxiety, too, as three quarters of us admit to being stressed about our finances. Many of us have become financially unhealthy, or just not acquired the proper money management skills. But that can be remedied in April, which ushers in National Financial Literacy Month (It’s a real thing: Congress proclaims it every year).

Financial literacy and financial fitness go hand in hand. Fitness means effectively managing your money to meet your shortterm and long-term needs and wants. The Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA) says it involves handling your finances in a way that allow you to achieve your immediate and future goals. This includes both the things you need to survive and the things you desire to improve your quality of life.

Financially fit people know where they earn their money and where they spend it. They pay off debts, save for emergencies and retirement, and regularly evaluate their financial situation. Think of it also as financial wellness.

Here are some tips from the financial counselors about getting to where you know you want to be financially.

CREATE A BUDGET (AND STICK TO IT)

Take some time to identify where your money comes from and what you spend it on. Whether written by hand or recorded on a computer, having a list of your income and expenses can be useful.

You can see where the minuses outweigh the pluses. If your expenses exceed your income, see what you can cut out. Then, track your spending each month, so you can see if you’re within your budget.

REDUCE YOUR DEBT LOAD

Debt can cause significant stress and physical and mental ailments. It can also cause people to miss out on vacations, family time or a better quality of life.

“Overwhelming consumer debt equates to major opportunity costs,” said financial author Todd Christensen. Households that are using their entire

current income to pay off past purchases will miss out on a lot.

PUT YOUR EARNINGS ON AUTOMATIC DEPOSIT

Yes, your paycheck is auto deposited to your financial institution. But earmark some of the money for a savings account. If a small portion of your paycheck goes directly into savings, you’re less likely to spend it. These small changes can make a significant difference in your financial fitness.

“Thinking you can go another year without an emergency fund is one of the biggest pitfalls I see,” Christensen told FCAA. “If you aren’t directly depositing something into savings, you will likely spend every penny you earn and end 2024 the same as you ended 2023 – in debt and without any savings.”

A good rule of thumb for how much money to keep in your emergency fund is three to six months of living expenses. Emergency savings will protect you from debt if unexpected problems arise.

Auto deposits also make sense for workplace retirement savings programs such as 401k and 403b plans. And don’t

forget to put your mortgage on auto pay. It’s easy and will prevent any forgetfulness on when to mail a check to the lender. Tip here: Break your payment into two and pay half with each paycheck, say, the 1st and 15th of the month. This means you’ll make 26 half payments, or 13 whole payments, which equals an entire extra payment every year that will go to paying down the principal.

SEPARATE YOUR SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM FINANCIAL GOALS

Set a budget for a vacation, a downpayment on a house or a needed car, and begin saving and investing. Planning for the future is a wise practice and reduces overall monthly expenses when done well.

When planning for a large expense, reframe your thinking. “Car payments, just because they’re the norm, are a big pitfall. Big car payments are about the fastest way to get a household into financial trouble,” said financial writer Todd Christensen.

REVIEW YOUR CREDIT REPORTS

With the prevalence of identity theft and the changing nature of people’s

credit, it is important to know what’s on your report. Your credit score also is key to whether credit will be granted to you, and at what rate.

Bay Federal Credit Union, bayfed. com, can link you to a site that will secure a credit report. Once yearly looks are free of charge.

Bay Federal, a sponsor of this page, also offers advice and guidance on pretty much everything tied to finances - from checking and savings accounts, to loans and credit cards, investments and financial wellness. They even provide a link to GreenPath Financial Wellness, a national non-profit counselor for financial services.

Take these tips. They’ll sharpen your financial literacy, and wellness. And they might dampen your tie to another April observance - National Stress Awareness Month.

Bay Federal Credit Union, bayfed.com, can link you to a site that will secure a credit (bayed.com).

Circus Comes to Orchard School

Ladies and Gentleman! Orchard School presents CircOrchard, its 8th annual children’s circus, featuring the entire 50-strong student body performing clown antics, juggling, acrobatics, unicycling, stilt walking, and circus spoofs. The public show will be on Saturday, May 4th, 2pm at the Scotts Valley Cultural and Performing Arts Center. See ticket information below.

Over the years, audiences have been wowed by the expertise and creativity of the school’s young performers, as well as impressed by their confidence level and powerful stage presence. The show, under the direction of teacher and professional performer, Rock Lerum, is created fresh every year with the addition of new, kidgenerated skits, and an ever-growing student skill level that infuses new energy and ideas into some of the old standards.

Lerum has been teaching at Orchard School since 1998 and won a Gail Rich award in 2003 for his work in the community. In 2007, he took nine of the school’s students to New York City where they rode 6-foot tall giraffe unicycles, danced on stilts, sang and clowned in the Good Morning America studios in Times

Square, as finalists in a national contest for the Oreo Cookie Jingle.

Over the past decade, the entire school has packed up props, costumes, performers, music and sets to perform free shows, namely a rendition of the Yellow Submarine Magical Mystery Tour and more recently, CircOrchard, at local schools including Gault, Calabasas, De LaVeaga, Green Acres, Tierra Pacifica, Ohlone, and Pacific School. You may have seen Orchard School students when they delighted the Santa Cruz Warrior’s crowds at half time show, or when they performed with the Santa Cruz County Symphony as part of their family concert series, in the programs Here Comes the Circus and Under the Boardwalk, at the Santa Cruz Civic Center and the Mello Center in Watsonville in 2010 and 2012.

Orchard School is a small, non-profit, private K-6 th school located on 14 beautiful acres in Aptos. The school’s mission is to bring learning to life with a comprehensive hands-on curriculum that celebrates childhood and focuses on the arts as well as traditional academics.

The teachers are specialists in their field who share a commitment to make

sure students get out in nature and move their bodies as much as possible. They believe that kids need this to fully exercise and develop their brains and inspire their curiosity to want to learn.

To purchase tickets for CircOrchard, visit orchardschoolaptos.org. Tickets are

$14 for adults, $7 for those under 12 and over 65, and free for children under 2. This year’s performance schedule also includes a free assembly show for students at Valencia Elementary in Aptos.

For more information, call or email: 688-1074 or info@orchardschoolaptos.org

MINDY ABRAHAM

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.

SEVEN DIRECTIONS

Summer Camps

Art, Science, Theater & More!

sevendirections.org

THE FIRST PARKOUR & FREERUNNING FACILITY IN SANTA CRUZ

SANTACRUZPARKOUR.COM

IN-STORE SPECIALS

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.

Hugh Age 8

Aroh Age 7

Leonardo Age 8

Harper Age 8

Viktor Age 9 and Alysa Age 8

Jezebel and Waylon Age 8

Wendy Age 8

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 5

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

First Friday Boulder Creek 5-8pm

April’s First Friday will celebrate over 40 local artists featured in the Museum’s annual science illustration exhibit, The Art of Nature. Try your hand at illustrating some Museum specimens and support the artists by going home with prints, stickers, cards, cups, and more from the Store. Light refreshments and a bar will be located inside the Museum. Admission to the Museum is free all day from 11am-8pm.

Cabrillo Youth Strings Concert

7-9pm Spring Orchestra Concert featuring string orchestra selections Samba, Bolero, international and contemporary music by Soon Hee Newbold and others. Local youth will perform with guest artists at The Music Building, VAPA5156 Cabrillo College. All proceeds benefit the Cabrillo Youth Strings Program. cabrillo.edu/cabrillo-youthstrings

SAT 6

Living History 11am-3pm Go on a trip back in time to experience what life would have been like on a working dairy ranch in the early 1900s. At this living history event,

costumed docents will guide you through the past and take you into historic homes, barns, and workshops. Learn all about the park partners and how they help Wilder Ranch and experience old-fashioned crafts, activities, and games at this family-friendly event. thatsmypark.org/event/life-on-theranch-a-living-history-event-2/all

TUE 9

Gateway Open House 9am-1pm Visit the campus on one of the monthly Tuesday tours. Hang with the kindergarteners on Kindy Island, see what’s growing in the Life Lab outdoor classroom, join the middle schoolers for a science experiment, and see first hand the unique benefits of a K - 8 education. gatewaysc.org

FRI 12

Arts Opening Celebration6-8pmThe public is invited to the Opening Celebration of the multi-sited group exhibition, Seeing Through Stone, at the Institute of the Arts and Sciences. Enjoy food and refreshments and an after-hours viewing of the exhibition with remarks at 7pm. This event is free and open to the public. ias.ucsc.edu/event/ exhibition-opening-celebration-seeingthrough-stone

SAT 13

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

SAT 13, 20

Discovery Open Houses Learn about the Reggio Emilia philosophy and what makes a quality preschool program. The experienced and passionate educators will be available at the Soquel location to answer questions and give you a tour of the unique learning environments. discoverypreschoolandfamilycenter.com

SUN 14

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.

Live Oak Jack Rabbit FUNdraiser

The 3rd annual Live Oak Jack Rabbit 1-Mile Run and Student Art Contest FUNdraiser will take place at Shoreline Middle School. Opening ceremonies begin at 8am. Registration for the 1-mile races on the USATF-certified track are open to the public online at tinyurl.com/LOJR2024.

Vive Oaxaca Guelaguetza10am-4pm

The Vive Oaxaca Guelaguetza is an authentic cultural festival with food, music, dance, and crafts presented each spring by Senderos. This local festival at Branciforte School is like the traditional fiestas celebrated each summer in Oaxaca, Mexico. Guelaguetza is a Zapotec word that means “a commitment of sharing and cooperation.” Guelaguetza is a celebration that honors the gods for sufficient rainfall and a bountiful harvest. scsenderos.org/vive-oaxaca-guelaguetza

THUR 18

UCSC Sesnon Salons 8am-5pm Check out the UC Santa Cruz Arts division at this salon-style gathering presenting the work of UCSC’s Performance, Play & Design Department. The event is free and open to the public with light refreshments as available. arts.ucsc.edu/news_events/ sesnon-salon-department-performanceplay-design-0

18-25

Dance Week Watch cultural, classical, modern and everything in between. There will be mid-day exhibitions and dazzling night shows. Would you like to participate? There will be community events to enjoy or learn. Performances held at Cooper Street and Pacific Avenue between Locust & Church Streets. cityofsantacruz.com

SAT 20

Earth Day Celebration Earth Day 2024 will be held in Santa Cruz on Cooper St, Pacific Ave, and Abbott Square. Local businesses and organizations will gather for a day of fun and environmentally focused activities and education. This free, familyfriendly event will have many activities for kids to take part in, like the interactive Passport Program where kids can earn a

sweet treat from Mission Hill Creamery or Pacific Cookie Company by participating. There will be an environmentally focused fashion show featuring local kids from the Fashion Teens program. scearthday.org/

SUN 21

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

Earth Day Celebrations noon-4pm

This event at Watsonville Plaza is familyfriendly and free of charge. Participate in games and activities relating to climate

action and climate solutions. Learn about local resources and efforts to become more resilient to climate change. watsonville. gov/1779/Earth-Day

Castro Adobe Open House 10:30am3:30pm This 90-minute tour is led by State Park docents who will share the history of the Castro family, and the two-story adobe hacienda built over 170 years ago. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon touring Rancho San Andres Castro Adobe State Historic Property in Watsonville. Preregistration is required at santacruzstateparks.as.me/ schedule.php

THUR 25

Live Oak Dual Immersion Open House 5-6:30pm Come learn about the Dual Language Immersion program at Live Oak Elementary School. If you are interested in enrolling or learning more about the Dual Immersion Program, please attend one of the remaining two parent information nights. losd.ca

SUN 28

Kennolyn Play Day Visit Kennolyn for a Play Day and enter the spring raffle for a free week at the camp. Enjoy a fun magic show and you and your camper will get to experience a typical day squeezed into two hours – great for 1st timers to get

comfortable or returners to share camp with friends new to Kennolyn. Two times to choose from (1 and 3pm). RSVP requested. Drop-ins also welcome. kennolyncamps. com/contact/visit-us/

SAT 27

Ducky Derby 10am-3:30pm Omega Nu will hold its 34th Annual Ducky Derby and Carnival at Harvey West Park. Come to the duck races and enjoy food, games, and music. Adopt a duck and have a chance to win over 100 prizes. duckyderbysantacruz. org

Cool Clothes Seen on the Streets and in Schools

BY MORGAN GUERRA

In downtown Santa Cruz, we talked to the most stylish people on the street. From linens closing out summer, to pinstripes making an early fall appearance, classic trends have taken over Front Street. Let’s take a look at the self-expression the Santa Cruz residents choose to communicate through their personal styles.

My name is Morgan Guerra and I am a current student at Cabrillo College. I’ve been enthralled in fashion since being a little girl playing dress-up in my mother’s closet and have longed to work in the fashion industry since. My goal is to shine a spotlight on the diverse fashion in Santa Cruz, as it’s something I’ve always taken notice of, but have never seen anyone truly talk about.

Zoe

Age: 18

Occupation: Student

Hometown: Phoenix, AZ

Black Sneakers (Converse) Camo Pants (Goodwill) Layered Tee (Goodwill) Beanie (Oniell)

Zoe pulls out the classic skater look this winter to keep an outfit interesting and align with a big Santa Cruz interest. Camo pants and layered graphic baby tees transport us back to the early 2000’s proving the iconic style keeps its relevance. Zoe advises that staple jeans are very important to have. Going back to the ‘90s and early 2000s look, Zoe reminds us to layer our outfits to add some spice. An Oniell beanie can add character to an outfit and represent the Santa Cruz culture. Zoe achieves this look with pieces from Moon Zooom, Oasis, and Oniell.

Helena

Age: 19

Occupation: Student

Hometown: Dana Point

Platform Converse (Converse) Number

14 Baby tee (Brandy Melville) Low Rise

Jeans (Brandy Melville) Leather Jacket (Crossroads Trading Post) Black Purse (Salvation Army)

Helena’s casual look is kept stylish by adding a leather jacket and a pair of cool sunnies exuding a mysterious vibe for any passerby to see. The big 14 on Helena’s shirt is a version of the jersey trend we saw in the spring and summer of 2023, but more wearable for everyday wear (not everyone wants to look like they are ready to get subbed in). Helena reveals being in Santa Cruz opens up the possibility of expressing yourself. A lot of different styles in Santa Cruz that inspire her to be able to dress the way she likes, not one style more digestible to conform to. What makes you feel cool is what’s important, and if that’s a vintage leather jacket, you’re with the times. Helena’s favorite shops are Crossroads and Moon Zooom to grab some second-hand pieces.

Ashley

Age: 18

Occupation: Student

Hometown: Dana Point

Platform Boots (Doc Marten) Lightwash

Baggy Jean (Cotton On) Pink Star Baby Tee (Dana Point Street Fair) Patchwork Jacket (Goodwill + Customized)

Ashley not only listens to her favorite bands but wears them too. After thrifting a jacket at the local thrift in her hometown, Ashley uses patches from her favorite bands to make the piece her own. Personal style can be as literal as putting your interests on your clothes, as being yourself will never go out of style. Ashley balances out the bold jacket and funny baby tee with a classic light-wash denim and platform boot combination. She shares her wisdom with us to not care what people say, “Do your thing it’s not that deep”. Once you learn to let go of the judgment of others, you can truly dress like yourself. Ashley loves to shop at Oasis on Pacific and Vigro Vintage. To get her look, shop small and DIY!

Ken

Occupation: Student

Hometown: Las Vegas

Red Leather Jacket (Goodwill) Black Fitted tee (Goodwill) Black straight-leg jeans (Urban Outfitters) Black Loafer (Doc Marten)

Ken gives us an example of how androgynous style is the future of fashion. With a winter color palette and a genderless silhouette, Ken uses ambiguity in their favor. The Thrifted Red leather jacket, a score from Goodwill, gives an effortlessly cool narrative to Ken’s vibe. You don’t need an outfit to be eclectic to be interesting as we see in this outfit. Sleek, mysterious, and edgy is always cool for any season or event. They get their inspiration from 70’s rock bands to achieve this look, telling us “Go vintage with it”. Knowing your proportions and using them to your advantage is the secret to a flattering silhouette that can elevate any outfit. To shop this look Ken names their favorite Santa Cruz shop Oasis on Pacific.

YOUR HEALTH

Aloha Santa Cruz

BY JAIME MCFADEN

As we enter springtime, the weather (finally) shifting, plans for summer emerge, and a lovely time to gear ourselves up for fun in the sun. Summer is RIGHT around the corner. (Have you registered for Jr Guards or Camp Capitola yet? )

On a recent adventure to Hawaii, for both business and pleasure - I felt so thankful to get away from the cold, wet, winter we have had and enjoy beach bliss with my family:). It got me thinking of the ways we can embrace the Aloha vibes at home. Aloha means “love, peace, and welcome it is a main word used all over the islands of Hawaii.

I am going to share with you the top ways you can create aloha energy at home. So often we are looking, searching and seeking out ways to feel the joy of life and oftentimes forgetting it is right where we are, if we choose.

The word, “Mana” in Hawaiian means Energy - as my family and I sat making Lei’s together we were taught to focus on the Mana we put into each flower on the Lei and think of who we want to share that energy with. Just taking time to be present together doing a fun activity made us all feel closer and more connected.

The Hawaiian culture is strong and as a

visitor you can’t help but feel welcome into the Ohana (family) when you are here. The warmth of the sun radiates throughout the islands wherever you go.

I am a huge advocate for travel, vacation and seeing new places - and it also reminded me of how blessed we are to call such a fabulous place home that many come to vacation, year after year. And in reflection, decided to make this all about some of the ways we can embrace the mana of Santa Cruz.

I encourage you while reading this blog to think about life in Santa Cruz and what it means to you and your family. How do you celebrate living here and what ways are you diving into the Santa Cruz culture. What are some of the fun things you want to experience here this spring and summer? What are some of the ways you want to experience more and share Santa Cruz with people who come to visit.

SUNRISE AND SUNSET BLISS-

We are blessed to live near the ocean and have opportunities twice per day to catch both sun up and down. Not only is this a beautiful way to start or wrap the day but it can become a ceremonial way to bond with yourself and family.

To wake up fresh and end the day in peace. And best part - it is great for our circadian rhythms, which will help our rest and create awareness to a calmer nervous system. I see the same few people everyday watching sunrise and sunset (definitely more sunset hour) but I invite you to wake up a bit early to check out sunrise in a beautiful location like Depot hill one morning and start your day that way.

LEAVE THE CAR AT HOME

One of the things I enjoyed most about staying in a hotel in Hawaii is being able to walk everywhere we needed. Living in Santa Cruz offers many walkable places where you can either walk to get groceries or just take a nice stroll along the shoreline.

Make a conscious choice one day to do everything that is walkable in your area, or drive to an area like 41st and spend a day there just walking everywhere you want to go. You will discover new things and feel like you are on vacation. Check out some of the local small businesses and meet new people.

EMBRACE TIME IN NATURE

Hawaii is filled with beautiful plants,

animals and so is Santa Cruz. We are so fortunate to live in oen of the most beautiful places in the world and we can tour the coastline for some of the best beaches, wildlife experiences and more. Take a tour on the Chardonnay cruise for sunset, rent a paddle board at Capitola Beach co, or take a journey down south through Monterey to Big Sur.

OHANA MEANS FAMILY

One concept that Hawaii has DIALED in, very similar to my big Greek family is the concept of embracing this life WITH the ones you love. Self-care is my jam and one of the best tips I can share is to connect with your family - this goes for chosen family as well! Take some time this month to plan some fun activities and spend quality time with those in your life that make this experience beautiful. Act as if you are on vacation for a day, or a weekend and notice how much more fun you all have. Be a tourist for a day and enjoy the sights and sounds of Santa Cruz. What are some of your favorite things about Santa Cruz that you want to share? Send me some of your favorite local spots for a chance to be featured in my next write up

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Creating Art for Everybody to Enjoy

BY CHRISTINA WATERS

Public sculpture and mosaic creations inspired by nature have been the specialty of local artist Kathleen Crocetti. Her colorful murals adorn walls, sidewalks, plazas and buildings throughout Santa Cruz County. After a 30-year career teaching art in middle school, Crocetti embarked on community collaborative projects that keep her busy all year around.

Q: DID YOU GROW UP WANTING TO MAKE ART?

A: Kids tend to become what they see as possible. I was lucky because my mom is an artist and so was my grandmother. I grew up in a house full of art and artmaking, in my young mind being an artist was just something that women did, akin to cooking or sewing. It wasn’t until later, attending art history classes that it became clear that the “successful artists of historical significance” were white men of European descent and that there were very few ‘successful’ female artists. This made me indignant and mad, but not despondent as I’ve always been a fighter and a rule-breaker.

Q: DESCRIBE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MAKING AND DESIGNING YOUR ART PROJECTS.

A: I call my medium “community” because I fabricate mosaics in community. Everyone is welcome and when we fabricate these mosaics together we are building and strengthening community by getting to know one another and each other’s stories. I’m helping the community fabricate for the community. For instance the the piece called Dancing Waters which is on the Front Street Garage and faces the San Lorenzo River. That was designed by Maha Titano. She is a woman of color who lives in our community and has been a hard-working artist for many many years and has not received opportunities or recognition. So it was an honor to ask her to design it and then help run a community center where it was fabricated. My idea of community being my media can be summed up in this way: I make art for, by, and with the community.

Q: WHY DO YOU CONSIDER ART TO BE INTEGRAL TO A HEALTHY SOCIETY?

A: Art is absolutely integral to the health of society, one of the most important things that art can do is reflect ourselves. When we proclaim to be inclusive people then we have

artwork that shows inclusivity and representation of all. When we want to proclaim our feelings of social and racial justice then we espouse that by having art that represents those ideals. For me when I’m making public art with youth what I’m helping to do or hoping to do for them is to give them a sense of place. They co-own that spot in the community, they have a feeling of belonging and importance. They have a reason to come back and revisit their shared community space. This is true for all public art that embraces diverse representation because when you can see yourself in the work, then you can see yourself in the community that has put that work up.

Q: HOW CAN PEOPLE VOLUNTEER TO WORK ON LARGE-SCALE INSTALLATIONS WITH YOU?

A: I have a nonprofit organization called Community Arts and Empowerment and we have a physical location in Watsonville called the Museo Mosaic Arts Center which is located at 26 West Front Street in Watsonville. We take all comers to help us with our current big project which is Watsonville Brilliante, a project that will eventually cover the entire Civic parking garage of downtown Watsonville, comprising 12,500 ft. of mosaics. It will take us five years to complete—we have three phases remaining!

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

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 happy-

tired 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!

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.

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 ever-changing environment designed to test their skills.