Parents Press May 2023 by Parenting Media

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May 2023

In Appreciation of Motherhood This Mother’s Day, take notice of the hard work moms do every day.

9 Things Every Child Should Do This Summer BRAIN GAINS

7 Foods to Boost Kids’ Academic Performance

Summer Camp Programs Your Child’s Best Summer Ever Starts Here!

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2023 Virtual Camp & Summer Expo ave the Coming In May and June

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Receive camp information and learn about more than 75 day and overnight camps as well as summer programs for all ages and interests.

Register at https://parentspress.com/ summer-camp-fair/ and receive access to regularly updated online camp expo materials

Contents

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MAY 2023

Volume 42 • Number 9

4 Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day with Summer Camp Programs Kids 28

WHAT’S INSIDE 6 Good to Know • • • •

Bay Area Summer Camp Guide What Mom Really Wants! Camp & Summer Virtual Expo Anxiety in Pre-Teens and Teens

10 9 Things Every Child Should Do This Summer

Mailing Address: 875-A Island Dr, Ste 421 Alameda, CA 94502 www.ParentsPress.com

13 7 Foods to Boost Kids’ Academic Performance 20 How Motherhood Made Me Appreciate My Mom 22 Coaching for the Kids 25 5 Benefits of STEAM Summer Camps 28 Last Minute Summer Camp Options

Publisher | Parenting Media, Inc. Art Director | Debbi Murzyn Account Managers Carol Flores, Sophie Archer Advertising Sales & General Info sales@parentspress.com Copies of Parents’ Press are distributed to locations throughout the Bay Area. Send letters to the editor to editor@parentspress.com

Calendar submissions are due six weeks prior to publication date. Send calendar information to calendar@parentspress.com

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Good to Know

VOTE for your Favs!

Our 2023 “Best Of” ballot is here, We need your input! Each year, we poll our readers for their top picks of places to shop, dine and play – everything from preschools and schools to kids’ classes, docs and dentists, camps, museums and attractions and so much more. Head online to www.ParentsPress.com to vote for your favorites today. We’ll publish the winners in our annual Best of publication this summer.

2023 Bay Area Camp & Summer Program Guide

he 2023 digital edition of Bay Area Camp & Summer Program Guide P GUIDE M A C A E R features helpful articles BAY A on picking the right camp Your Child’s for your child, specialty Best programs, preparing for Summer EVER camp and more. Read it on Starts Here www.ParentsPress.com – just click on the Magazine ssons 5 Life Le at 75+ Learned rmp p Ca m Counselo tab then on the image of Ca ing Listings In-Trainm s Progra the Bay Area Camp Guide. ITIOOMN 23 ED 20W.P PRESS.C ARENTS WW

cial Needs ps for Spe ms • Cam ent Progra • Enrichm ht Camps ps • Overnig Cam Day

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CAMP & SUMMER PROGRAM VIRTUAL EXPO 2023

VIRTUAL SUMMER CAMP FAIR

arents’ Press has redesigned the Summer Camp Fair into a Camp Expo Flip Book complete with information and video for over 45 camp and summer programs. Information in the flip book is sorted to fit your needs. Register today to receive the next Camp Expo Flip Book on May 14.

https://parentspress.com/summercamp-fair

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Good to Know Anxiety: Pre-teens and Teenagers Written by: Alyssa Michel, MSW, LICSW Trauma Social Worker

WHAT IS ANXIETY? While the term “anxiety” is used often, it is common for individuals to not understand exactly what it means. Anxiety is the feeling of worry or unease, which can be triggered by everyday situations, imminent events, or even sometimes unidentifiable reasons. Anxiety can be a typical reaction to stress. For example, an adolescent may feel anxious before taking a test or presenting a project. In those with anxiety disorders, the reaction is not temporary and can be overwhelming. In other words, while everyone experiences anxiety to some degree throughout their lives, it only becomes a disorder when the feelings interfere with one’s daily activities.

ANXIETY IN PRE-TEENS AND ADOLESCENTS Many pre-teens and teenagers experience anxiety due to the emotional, physical, and social change that occurs during adolescence. Pre-teens and teenagers often seek new experiences as well as increased freedom, which naturally leads to anxious feelings regarding changes and challenges. While entering a new school or getting a first job may be exciting, it can also be anxiety-producing. That being said, it is important for parents to remember that anxiety is not always a negative thing. Feeling anxious can lead to increased motivation and focus, allowing pre-teens and teenagers to do their best and/or make better decisions.

WAYS TO HELP PRE-TEENS AND TEENAGERS MANAGE ANXIETY Parents can help their pre-teens and teenagers manage anxiety by engaging in meaningful conversation, spending quality time together, and promoting healthy choices. It is also beneficial for parents to normalize anxiety. By validating and listening to your child’s worries, you may be able to better help manage their anxieties or aid in finding resolutions to problems. When pre-teens and teenagers feel safe and protected, they better able to cope.

PROFESSIONAL HELP In the event a parent does not feel equipped to provide the support their child needs, it is best to reach out to a licensed mental health professional. Many schools have a counselor or psychologist that is available to meet with students either on an as-needed or scheduled basis. If you are having difficulty finding support, it is recommended that you request a referral for mental health services through your child’s primary care provider.

8 Parents Press | May 2023

What Mom Really Wants for Mother’s Day

lowers are nice. Brunch is a nerve wrecking and tiring experience and a weekend away can be too much work when you have kids under 10. Mom’s don’t require much. Most would like to do a little less. Here are 10 great and inexpensive ideas to get the gift Mom really wants and needs this year: 1. Clean and Empty House 2. Sleep 3. A Really Good Workout 4. Spa Day 5. A Day Free from “Mom Routine”. 6. Car Wash 7. Subscription Box-self-care, clothing, books, wine 8. A finished Honey-Do list. 9. A no-cook or dishes week. 10. A handmade something, a card, photo collage, jewelry or piece of kid’s art.

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9 Things Every Child Should DoThis Summer Written by: Sarah Lyons

chools out for summer! It’s summer vacation and the kids are free of the early morning rush, after school homework, and have the freedom to enjoy warm weather and time with family and friends. Many parents find that with this freedom comes the battle to keep their kids off electronics. Here are some screen-free activities every kid should do this summer.

1. Take it outside. Some kids may enjoy playing outside without having to be pushed out the door but others may need a little encouragement. Instead of simply telling your child to “Go play outside.” Try having them design and build a kite,

then go outside to fly it. You could also do a “Park Tour” by making a list of great parks in your area (ask friends for recommendations) and visit a different park each week. Have a picnic, explore the neighborhood, set up an obstacle course, play with sidewalk chalk, toss a ball, play on the swing set, pick flowers, or take a family bike ride. The possibilities are endless and can be catered to your child’s interests.

2. Be a night owl. No school means no early mornings. While staying up late every night may not be the best option for young children, allowing a few late nights on lazy summer evenings can be a great way to make memories. Use a projector to watch a movie outdoors, catch fireflies in the backyard, or watch a firework show. There’s something special about a warm summer evening and getting to stay up late. If you are lucky, the kids might even sleep in the next day.

3. Go jump in a lake. It wouldn’t be summer without some swimming. Take the kids to the lake, pool, sprayground, or set up the sprinkler in the backyard. Nothing feels better than cooling off in the water on a hot summer day.

4. Plant a seed. A great way to get kids outside is to have them work in the garden. This allows for plenty of outdoor time and can sometimes include daily maintenance for watering, weeding, and checking on the plants. “Grow something!” says Heather Allen of Olathe. “Anything, be it a tree, vegetable, or flower, there is something really rewarding about getting your hands in the dirt, and growing and taking care of a plant.” If you choose to have a vegetable garden, get the kids involved in cooking with ingredients they have helped to grow.

10 Parents Press | May 2023

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5. Family campout. Camping is a great summer activity to get families outside together. Some families may enjoy taking the tent to a nearby campground and unplugging for a day or two. Other families may prefer camping in the backyard so they are close to the comforts of home. Either way, put away the electronics for the day, roast marshmallows on a campfire, and enjoy the time together outdoors.

6. Complete a project. Family projects are a great way to keep kids busy. Decide as a group what projects you would like to focus on this summer. Some ideas could include cleaning and remodeling (or rearranging) their bedrooms, collecting food for a food pantry, planting a garden, scrapbooking, reading an entire book series, or running a 5K.

7. Learn something new. “I tell the kids, the school year is for learning what your teacher wants you to learn and summer is for learning what you want to learn.” says Amy Cameron, mom of three. She suggests making a list of 2-3 topics of interest and plan to pursue them by reading books, attending camps, or doing research. Moms Erin Lorton and Stephanie Loux both suggest keeping a daily journal. “They write a few sentences about their day. It’s always fun to look back on previous years.” says Lorton. “We keep daily math,

12 Parents Press | May 2023

reading, and summer writing journals.” says Loux. You can print pictures and create a keepsake for them to look back on.

8. Cool off with a sweet treat. Ice cream should be on every kid’s summer bucket list. There are countless ice cream and snow cone shops to visit in the metro area. Create a list of new shops or old favorites you would like to visit this summer. You could also try making ice cream or popsicles at home.

9. Get moving. It’s great to be outside in the summer but sometimes it’s too hot or rainy and you need to find an indoor place to burn off energy. Consider getting the kids moving by visiting an indoor trampoline place, a skating rink, rock climbing facility, or indoor aquatic center. If you want to save money and need some indoor ideas, have a dance party in the house, find Go Noodle or Cosmic Kids Yoga on YouTube, or have a push-up and sit-up challenge. It’s unrealistic that kids will stay off of their electronics the entire summer, but with these tips you can increase their outdoor and exercise time. They may have so much fun they forget about their tablets. A parent can dream, right?. Y Sarah Lyons is a busy mother of six children. Lyons has been published in Pregnancy and Newborn Magazine KC Parent, Austin Family, Creative Child and over 140 other parenting publications.

7 Foods By Patrick Quinn

act is, all the books, tablets, and notepads kids use for studying are useless if their brains are not in top functioning form. There are certain nutrients that are crucial for their brain development, and better brain development means better brain function, memory, and concentration—all of which contribute to better academic performance. To keep your kids’ performance at optimum levels, we’ve rounded up seven of the best brain foods to help boost their mental power, and have provided pro parenting tips on how to incorporate them into your kids’ daily diet.

NUTS & SEEDS Nuts and seeds are packed with nutrients that are essential for brain health including essential fatty acids, protein, zinc, and B-vitamins. They’re also natural mood boosters that are portable and versatile, making them an excellent choice for study snacks.

PARENT TIP: Kids aren’t always going to love these. But mixing them in a trail mix with a few chocolate pieces or yogurt chips is a great way to get them munching on the healthy nuts and seeds. Just be careful not to send this in as a school snack in districts where nut allergies can affect other kids.

GREEK YOGURT Full-fat Greek yogurt packs a lot more protein than other yogurts (and much less sugar), and can help keep brain cells in good form for sending and receiving information. It’s also full of protein and B-vitamins—essential for the growth of brain tissue, neurotransmitters, and enzymes. Greek yogurt is also a great source of Calcium and Vitamin D. PARENT TIP: Mix in a teaspoon of honey and some cinnamon to turn this healthy option into a delicious one as well. The problem for me at that point is avoiding eating it myself before the kids get it.

May 2023 | ParentsPress.com 13

muffin and topping it with a slice of low-fat cheese.

BERRIES Berries are rich in a variety of compounds that may help promote academic performance and protect brain health. Berries (including blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries) are especially high in flavonoid compounds called anthocyanins, believed to improve mental performance by increasing blood flow to the brain. They also protect against inflammation and improve certain signaling pathways that promote nerve cell production and cellular processes involved in learning and memory. PARENT TIP: Berries make an easy study snack, but they can cause sticky fingers that can lead to messy keyboards and homework papers. Try putting several different types of berries on kid-friendly skewers for a fun, healthy, and mess-free desk snack.

BONUS TIP: Eggs aren’t only a great healthy option that will keep them full thanks to the protein, but it’s also a really great gateway to cooking for the budding chef. Teach them how to make scrambled eggs, a fried egg, or a veggie omelet, and you’re fostering a whole new side of creativity. Plus… you might get the occasional breakfast out of that deal!”

OATMEAL Oats are extremely nutritious and they can provide the energy and fuel for the brain that kids need first thing in the morning. Oatmeal is also a fiber-rich food that keeps heart and brain arteries clear. In one study, kids who ate sweetened oatmeal did better on memory-related school tasks than those who ate sugary cereal.

PARENT TIP: Delicious AND helps with memory at school? Oatmeal should really be considered a bit of a superfood for our kids. It’s another food option that can Fish is an excellent source of Vitamin D and the Omega-3 be endlessly tweaked to suit the tastes of your individual fatty acids DHA and EPA— both essential for brain growth kiddos. You can dress oatmeal up with applesauce, dried and function. Consuming more Omega-3s means kids will fruit, almonds, and banana to make it tastier and more have sharper minds and better mental skills. appealing to kids. Due to its natural compounds, adding PARENT TIP: Fish can be a tricky one with kids. If you get cinnamon also gives oatmeal an extra ingredient that will them accustomed to eating it when they’re young, they’ll help to protect brain cells. be more likely to be open to new fish dishes when they’re pre-teen and teenagers. You can make fish tasty for kids APPLES AND PLUMS by serving it simply grilled, like fish sticks, or including it in tacos or in tuna sandwiches. Another option is Kids usually have a craving for sweets. Apples and plums using canned salmon to make delicious salmon salad are lunchbox-friendly items that contain quercetin, an sandwiches that can be mixed with reduced-fat mayo or antioxidant that helps fight the decline in mental skills. non-fat Greek yogurt, raisins, chopped celery, and carrots. Keep them organic to get the best benefits.

FISH

PARENT TIP: These are some of the few snacks that are on the ‘help yourself’ list in my house. It’s great because kids can grab one when they get home from school while The versatile egg is a great source of protein, and egg doing homework, or anytime they want a quick bite. For yolks are packed with choline, which helps memory development. Eggs can be served in a variety of ways and a heartier snack, you can also cut apples into chunky can be enjoyed at breakfast, as a mid-afternoon snack, or slices and spread them with almond or peanut butter, or you can freeze pitted plums and add them to a favorite even at dinner. nutrient-rich fruit smoothie. PARENT TIP: Eggs are great for making grab-and-go Patrick Quinn is a parenting expert at Brainly, the world’s largest online breakfasts kids can eat on the road. Scramble eggs into learning community. He is the father of three school-age kids and a a whole grain tortilla to make a grab-and-go breakfast former teacher. burrito, or make your own version of an Egg McMuffin at home by putting a fried egg on top of a toasted English

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The real reason to celebrate Memorial Day is to acknowledge and remember those who have lost their lives during military service to our country. By Sarah Lyons

START A CONVERSATION

imply explaining what Memorial Day means is a good place to start. There are books you can read to help explain the holiday to your child such as The Wall by Eve Bunting or The Poppy Lady by Barbara Walsh. There are also kid-friendly videos available online that can help you explain the holiday in an age-appropriate way. “Memorial Day (History for Kids)” is a great video available on YouTube. Give your child a chance to ask questions and answer as honestly as possible.

16 Parents Press | May 2023

loved one who sacrificed their lives, your kids may not understand what the Memorial Day really means. Here are some kid-friendly ways to celebrate the holiday and honor those who have lost their lives as well.

SEND A GREETING

aking a craft, card, or putting together a care package for soldiers who are overseas is a great way to help celebrate Memorial Day and to help kids understand why it is important. There are many organizations that will help connect you to veterans, soldiers, or families of those who are serving overseas so that you can make sure your cards are sent to the right place. Operation We Are, Military Missions, Soldiers’ Angels, and A Million Thanks are a few organizations that can help connect your family with those that are serving or have served our country. If you are hosting a BBQ this holiday, consider having guests write a thank you card to soldiers while they are there. You can buy affordable bulk cards online or make your own.

VISIT A PARADE, MUSEUM OR EVENT

n non-pandemic times, most cities will host a Memorial Day parade or a remembrance event to honor fallen soldiers. There are also many memorials or museums across the nation that can be attended socially distanced. Attending one of these events with your family can open up further conversation about what Memorial Day means and show your kids that it isn’t just another day off of school and work, but a day to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedoms.

SHOW YOUR PATRIOTISM

how your support for those who have served in the military by flying the American flag, making some patriotic desserts, decorating the house in red, white, and blue, and wearing the colors yourself. It is important to celebrate the freedom that we have thanks to those who have served and lost their lives. Sarah Lyons is a mother of six children, including three-year-old triplets.

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By Sarah Lyons

hen I look back at each important moment in my life: the day I learned to drive, my graduation, my wedding, the birth of my first child, she is always standing in the background smiling and cheering me on. More importantly, she was part of the other not-somonumental moments in my life like when I got stung by a bee, when the kids teased me, and when I cried my way through my first broken heart. My mom was always there to support me through all the moments, big and small. Now that I have been a mom for a dozen years, I appreciate my mom so much more for the things she has always done with little or no recognition. I now realize the sacrifices she made and the monumental effort she put in. Here are just a few reasons why I appreciate my mom a whole lot more since becoming a mom.

20 Parents Press | May 2023

For maintaining

The mother’s work is never done and it is a thankless job. Taking even one day off means more work for days to come. Moms pick up the same toys, wash the same dishes, and do the same laundry over and over again. Not only do moms maintain the housework but they also hold a mental inventory of all items in the home. Most moms can recall the location of the baby’s favorite stuffed animal, the toddler’s missing shoe, the library books, the stapler, and any other random item a family member may request at any given time. I appreciate the example of steadfastness that my mom gave me for maintaining our home.

For managing

As moms, we often feel like we live in our minivans. Moms don’t just transport kids from one activity to the next. They also maintain the family calendar, make appointments, and make sure everyone is in the right place at the right time with the right gear (musical instrument, snacks, sports gear, sunscreen, backpack, and the list goes on). Juggling school and activities in itself is a full-time job that my mom (and most moms) manages with ease. I appreciate my mom for being the social planner, taxi driver, and personal assistant to our whole family as we grew up.

For enduring

The first time I dropped my son off at a babysitter’s and watched him cry and reach for me in the window my heart broke. As moms, we endure heartache often as we watch our children learn and grow, succeed and fail, and endure illnesses, hurt feelings, and disappointment. Our heart soars when they meet their goals and sinks when things don’t work out. Motherhood is a roller coaster of emotions that us moms withstand without complaint. I appreciate my mom for her strong support of me even when she was hurting too.

For the unseen

There are things moms do every day that go unnoticed. Moms make sure the football jersey is clean before the next game, check in on a sick kid during the night, drop off a forgotten lunchbox, put puzzle pieces back where they belong, replace toothbrushes, clean out the pantry, email teachers with concerns, volunteer, cook, shop, and so many little things that keep a family going every day. The little things that don’t seem to matter, that most won’t notice, that no one asks for, that moms do just because

they want to show their love for their family. I appreciate my mom for all the things she has done that I never thought to thank her for.

For loving me anyway

Moms love their kids through tantrums, potty training, back talk, and rebellion. There is no doubt that raising kids is trying on the patience but moms have a way of letting us know that no matter what mistakes we make, they will be there to catch us when we fall. I appreciate my mom for loving me even when I was unlovable.

I appreciate my mom a whole lot more since becoming a mom. ♥ I appreciate the example of steadfastness that my mom gave me for maintaining our home. ♥ I appreciate my mom for being the social planner, taxi driver, and personal assistant to our whole family as we grew up. ♥ I appreciate my mom for her strong support of me even when she was hurting too. ♥ I appreciate my mom for all the things she has done that I never thought to thank her for. ♥ I appreciate my mom for loving me even when I was unlovable. ♥ I appreciate my mom for letting me go, grow, and experience life in my own way.

For letting me go

When you become a mother, you are the center of your child’s world. You feed them, change them, and comfort them. The more they grow, the more independent they become. While this is something to celebrate, it can be heart wrenching to loosen the grip on a child and trust them to manage life and all of its challenges alone. It’s scary and new and feels more like a loss of control than anything else, but as you watch your child take on life’s challenges it can be a great sense of pride as well. I appreciate my mom for letting me go, grow, and experience life in my own way. This Mother’s Day, take notice of the hard work moms do every day. Acknowledge the little things they do, thank them for always being there, and hug them tight before you leave.

May 2023 | ParentsPress.com 21

Coaching for the Kids By Tony Hicks

friend of mine recently took to social media, asking for input regarding coaching his young child’s baseball team. His chief concern was his own “old school” style (yelling) when it comes to lack of hustle, dumb mistakes, etc. I heard that. My first thought was that they should make chew toys for adult humans who coach kids 10 years old and younger - something on which you can bite down when you’re frustrated to the point of wanting to gnaw off your own tongue. I’ve been there. I’ve coached two of my daughters’ softball teams. I think I once actually ripped out some of my own hair in frustration, something a middle-aged man should never do, as he has no assurance that hair will ever come back. I’ve also been that parent who’s ready to go headbutt one of their child’s coaches to let them know their excess aggression on his part is not acceptable. Yes, irony can sometimes be so ironic. My friend’s concern seemed to mostly be about how other parents might view his coaching style (yelling). Which I get (see above example of self-abuse). But what gets lost in that approach, I realized while aggressively being an example of it, is that it discounts the important part: how the experience affects the kids. No, really … it really is supposed to be about the kids. My daughter’s coach is a very nice guy. And he knows the game very well. On paper, he’s a great coach … for 18-year-old college players. Some of his players haven’t hit five feet tall. Some haven’t hit chronological double digits. This is my daughter’s fourth season. She’s a veteran on her team. She’s also a bright kid who loves playing. And she still doesn’t fully understand that one team wins, and one

22 Parents Press | May 2023

loses. Which is great. She’s having fun … despite the fact her coach has her doing drills you see in movies about marines struggling to get through boot camp. I keep telling myself that, as long as she enjoys it, it’s good for her. Then I take a leisurely eight-minute walk to my car and back, where no one will hear my teeth grinding. It’s a classic dynamic, of which I’ve seen both sides. It’s a balancing act, trying to teach kids the game and that life, like it or not, is competitive. The harder you try, the better you’ll be. Theoretically. But the chasm between I-know-something-you-don’t-know adults and easilydistracted children, who think a dugout is a place to hit each other on the head and make up new dances, is as weighty as ever. One thing that has changed is the number of recreational choices kids now have. Recreation now comes attached to their hands, in the form of computerized multi-dimensional imagination factories called cell phones. When I was that age, many centuries ago, the

biggest threat was those extra 11 channels from the regular three television networks – a problem that was remedied, my grandpa once demonstrated, by one angry yank on the cable line leading into the wall. As the choices move faster, real sports – especially baseball and softball – move slower. As a coach, I’m far more sensitive than my coaches were, to the possibility of doing something to turn a kid off to playing real sports. In the 1970s, quitting a sport wasn’t much of an option, when the only alternative was playing with other kids … most of whom are too busy playing sports. I’ve found that a good rule to follow when running out of solutions is to read the room. Or, in this case, the dugout. Tony Hicks is a newswpaper columnist and the father of four daughters.

Summer Art Camps The magic of Summer Art Camp begins this year on June 12th! We limit each summer camp session to 12-15 students, so that each student receives individual attention. Making art develops problem-solving skills, encourages creativity, and develops self-confidence. Our goal is to provide the materials, structure, and guidance to spark creativity in each child, allow them to explore and investigate their own ideas, and have lots of fun in the process. Schedule for Summer Art Camp 2023 Week 1: June 12-16 Drawing Week 2: June 19-23 Paint: Color Week 3: June 26-June 30 Animals & Imaginary Creatures Week 4: July 3-7 People & Faces Week 5: July 10-14 Drawing Week 6: July 17-21 Landscape, Still Life & Oceans Week 7: July 24-July 28 Animals & Imaginary Creatures Week 8: July 31-August 4 Paint: Color Week 9: August 7-11 Landscape, Still Life & Oceans Week 10: August 14-18 Drawing Week 11: August 21-25 Animals & Imaginary Creatures All art materials are safe and non-toxic. Ages 5-13, regular campers, and 14-17, counselors in training. Camp options are from 8:30am to 4:30pm each day, or 9am to 3pm each day, depending on different families needs. On Friday, camp ends at 3pm. Daylong Immersion Days are also available. Questions? Our camp is located at the Marigold School, on 62nd St, in Oakland between California and Market.

Please call 510-604-0036 or email Bethpaints@gmail.com Register at www.DancingPaintBrushStudio.com

May 2023 | ParentsPress.com 23

Youth Camp is Back! June 19–23, 2023

Your camper will love all the fun-filled traditions of overnight CAMP! Campers will enjoy Canoeing, Crawdad Fishing, Hiking, Archery, Volleyball, Swimming, Beach Fun at Lake Tahoe, Skits, Arts & Crafts, Tye Dying Shirts, and Campfires with S’mores. Roundtrip bus transportation from Concord to South Lake Tahoe included.

Ages: 9–13 (at the time of camp) New Camper Registration Opens March 13, 2023 FriendsOfCampConcord.org/Youth-Camp

Space is limited to 149 campers. To register: FriendsOfCampConcord.org/Youth-Camp 24 Parents Press | May 2023or contact us at: YouthCamp@FriendsOfCampConcord.org

STEAM Summer Camps

5 REASONS TO CONSIDER THIS SUMMER

By Jean Abernathy

ummer camp provide an environment in which encourages children to be lifelong learners, critical thinkers, action-takers, and global citizens. Children can begin putting the real-world pieces together that they have learned throughout the school year and start applying those principles in a fun and engaging manner during summer. A STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & math) approach summer camp allows your child to explore different areas of study and provides them with an understanding of how each subject is connected. Here are five reasons why you should consider a STEAM focused summer camp for your child.

ENCOURAGES LEARNING DURING SUMMER

SPARK AN INTEREST IN SCIENCE

The dreaded “summer learning lose” has plagued classroom teachers for decades, and often contributes to wasted instructional time come Fall. A growing body of research indicates that summer programs can help students retain and build upon their learning from the previous year, especially if those programs are specifically aimed at enrichment. Camps that focus on arts and science enrichment offer a powerful combination of interactive, individualized instruction to provide children with an opportunity for focused reading, practical mathematics, as well as the lively interaction that children crave when school is out for the summer.

Summer is a great time to encourage your children to pursue new interests that they may not normally be attracted to, including the sciences. A study of high school and university age students enrolled in a summer science internship program revealed that Continued on page 26 >>> May 2023 | ParentsPress.com 25

<<< Continued from page 25

Giving children the opportunity to learn how to create 3D drawings or movies isn’t just fun, it encourages children to use their “big picture” visioning skills to imagine new possibilities and outcomes. the majority of the students reported extracurricular exposure to the STEAM fields had encouraged their interest in science. Actively applying science concepts outside of the classroom seems to have a lasting effect on children, and summer camp is a great place for them to start exploring in a fun, supportive environment.

INTRODUCES CAREER OPPORTUNITIES EARLY ON

While summer camp may seem like the last place that children should be thinking about their career goals, it’s never too early to give them enrichment experiences in the STEAM fields to ignite the kind of curiosity that often leads to a fulfilling and meaningful work life. A two-year study of middle school students across the country revealed that “students who once participated in science summer camps were more likely to later report a career interest in the science and engineering fields”. It’s clear that enrolling your child in a STEAM focused camp is an ideal way to provide them more options as they start considering their path through high school, college, and beyond.

CHILDREN EXPERIENCE ACADEMIC SUCCESS IN A LOW PRESSURE SETTING

MIXING ARTS & SCIENCE IS JUST PLAIN FUN & MORE!

Summer camp can be a nice way for children to experience the joy of academic achievement in a more supportive, low stakes environment. A few weeks at camp can give your child the chance to feel safer and more supported while learning, which can, in turn, lead them to feel more confident and take on greater academic challenges once the school year resumes in fall.

Quality arts instruction, especially when coupled with the sciences, gives children the opportunity to play, create, and learn in non- traditional ways that emphasize individual expression as well as real- world collaboration skills. Giving children the opportunity to learn how to create 3D drawings or movies isn’t just fun, it encourages children to use their “big picture” visioning skills to imagine new possibilities and outcomes. STEAM summer camps offer children the chance to learn, grow, and explore new modes of thinking and doing. A STEAM summer program can not only boost academic performance during the school year, it can also build confidence, creativity, resiliency, and ideally, will be fun! Y Jean Abernathy is the mother of two teenagers and has contributed to Parents Press for over 10 years.

DAY CAMPS ACADEMIC CAMPS

CAMP S Presc

SPORTS CAMPS

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ASSOCIAT I

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Accrediting Commission for Schools

*Camps offered vary by location. Preschool State License Numbers: 013420588, 013423042, 434404890, 434413440, 434410816, 434408056, 013420939, 414004014, 384001837, 384004006, 434407977, 434408877, 434410807, 434404336, 434406722. Copyright © 2022 Stratford Schools, Inc.

Locations throughout the Bay Area LS

With more options to explore, you can build a one of a kind Summer@Stratford experience for your child!

Spark curiosity. Discover new skills. Make friends. Stratford offers the perfect summer camp for your child, complete with all the fun, enriching activities that inspire learning and promote independence, in a safe, nurturing environment.

Bring out their best this summer!

SPECIALTY CAMPS

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May 2023 | ParentsPress.com 27

Summer Camps & Programs Listings YOUR CHILD’S BEST SUMMER EVER STARTS HERE! ACADEMY AT OAKLAND BALLET (ALAMEDA & HAYWARD) Day Camp • 510-893-3132 Ages 9 & up The Academy at Oakland Ballet Company offers classical ballet training with one of the leading Bay Area professional dance companies. The Academy at Oakland Ballet’s focus is on developing the whole dancer through classes that not only teach ballet technique, but explore artistic expression and build self-confidence - all in a fun and nurturing, yet challenging class environment. https://oaklandballet. org/education/theacademyatobc/ summer-intensive/

BERKELEY DAY CAMP (BERKELEY)

the high sierras with counselors.

Day Camp • 510-981-5140 Ages 5-13

When you join us at either Echo Lake Camp (near South Lake Tahoe) or Tuolumne Camp (near Yosemite), you can participate in traditions shared by generations of Berkeleyans, or create new ones of your own with family and friends. Households and individuals of all backgrounds are welcome to share in Berkeley’s rich diversity at camp. https://berkeleyca.gov/ community-recreation/parks-recreation/ camps/overnight-camps

Berkeley Day Camp is one of the best traditional outdoor day camps in the Bay Area. It is a fun, engaging and exciting experience as campers explore shoreline habitats, canoe, make arts and crafts and play at the acclaimed Adventure Playground and go on special adventures. Many of our former campers are now part of our awesome team of staff, providing a safe environment for children to spend their summer days at play. https://berkeleyca.gov/communityrecreation/parks-recreation/camps/ berkeley-day-camp

ALAMEDA BALLETTHEME SUMMER CAMPS (ALAMEDA) BERKELEYTUOLUMNE&ECHOLAKE Day Camp • 510-337-1929 CAMP PROGRAMS (BERKELEY) Ages 4-11

No experience necessary! In addition to a daily dance class, children learn about and watch a different famous classical ballet each week. They explore their own creativity through exercise in movement concepts. Students also learn valuable lessons about anatomy, nutrition, dance history and vocabulary. https://alamedaballet.com

28 Parents Press | May 2023

Overnight & Family Camps • 510-981-5140 Ages 7-14 Escape to the Sierra Nevada with the City of Berkeley: we have summer sleepaway camps for youth, families, adults, and seniors. You can swim in a lake, hike in the forest, enjoy meals cooked for you, or let your children explore the wonders of

BISHOP O’DOWD’S SUMMER ACADEMY (OAKLAND) Day Camp • 510-577-9100 Grades 6-9 At O’Dowd’s Summer Academy, students develop social-emotional, creative, and intellectual skills, all while getting to know the O’Dowd campus. We offer a flexible morning and afternoon schedule, and free lunch for students who enroll in 3 or more classes.For grades 6-9, Summer Academy offers robust academic and enrichment courses, from Math and Spanish, to Drama and Gardening. Held on O’Dowd’s friendly campus, with small classes, hands-on learning, and

Girls Summer Program

Summer Ballet Camps & Classes Pre Ballet - Pre Professional Ages 4 & Up Jul 10-14 Sleeping Beauty Jul 17-21 Swan Lake Jul 24-28 Hansel & Gretel

Join us

June 19-July 14, 2023

For 4th, 5th, and 6th graders Creative Expression (June 19-23) STEAM (June 26-30)

For 7th and 8th graders Performing Arts (July 3-14) Science & Nature (July 10-14)

Oakland Ballet Summer Intensive July 10-21

For more information: Liz Campbell lcampbell@juliamorganschool.org

More info: AlamedaBallet.com | admin@alamedaballet.com

Julia Morgan School for Girls 5000 MacArthur Blvd., PMB 9966 | Oakland, CA 94613 www.juliamorganschool.org

Listing information provided by Camps

May 2023 | ParentsPress.com 29

Dates: June 20 to August 4 2023

Early Bird Rates Available Until April 15th!

fun activities. Come be a Dragon this summer! https:// www.bishopodowd.org/ summer-academy

beautiful Lake Merritt! http:// juniorcenter.org/summercamp

DANCING PAINTBRUSH STUDIO (OAKLAND)

Day Camp • 510-549-3867 Grades 1-6

Day Camp • 510-604-0036 Ages 5-17

We are pleased to announce the return of Le Camp D’Été for summer 2023! Our camps are open to the public for rising G1 to G6 students while our mini-camp (preschool and entering K) will still be for incoming and current EB students only. In addition to our super fun-filled French Immersion Camp we will also be offering Riveropolis Maker Camp, a two week maker camp (English Only), for rising G3 to G6 students. https://www. lecampdete.com

Making art develops problemsolving skills, encourages creativity, and develops self-confidence. Our goal is to provide the materials, structure, and guidance to spark creativity in each child, allow them to explore and investigate their own ideas, and have lots of fun in the process! Our philosophy is to encourage students to explore and express themselves with an emphasis on practice over product, without judgment, comparison, or criticism. https://dancingpaintbrushstudio.com/

FRIENDS OF CAMP CONCORD (CAMP IN SOUTH LAKE TAHOE) Overnight Camp • 925-232-1530 Ages 9-13, CIT 14-17 At Youth Camp at Camp Concord, campers will experience a break from the digital world with time-worn traditions of camping in the Sierra Nevada as kids canoe, kayak, go crawdad fishing, hike, swim, play volleyball, archery, and do arts & crafts, including creating their own tie-dyed t-shirt. Campers have fun at the beach around majestic Lake Tahoe, not to mention enjoying the magic of storytime around the campfire under the starry night sky. Boundless days of activity and exploration await your youth 9-13 years at Camp Concord, where memories are made to last a lifetime. https:// friendsofcampconcord.org/ youth-camp/

JUNIOR CENTER OF ART AND SCIENCE (OAKLAND) Day Camp • 510-839-5777 Ages 6-13 Join the Junior Center of Art and Science this summer for one-week and two-week day camps that explore art, design, and technology on the

30 Parents Press | May 2023

LE CAMP D’ETE (BERKELEY)

LEGARZA KIDS CAMP (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) Day Camp • 415-334-3333 PreK-8th Grade Basketball, All-Sports, & Volleyball Summer Camp. Legarza programs give children the knowledge and motivation they need to achieve their personal best in sport and life. Over 400,000 of the Bay Area’s youth have experienced and benefitted from our 33-year, proven and tested system. Our program is tailored to help your young athlete succeed on and off the court in a safe, professional and encouraging environment of learning and fun. http://www.legarzasports. org/

MAD SCIENCE STEM CAMPS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) Day & Virtual Camps • 510-438-9702 Ages 3-12 We offer kids full-day and half-day camp experiences that are sure to entertain and delight! They will be wowed by green glowing liquid, messages written in secret code, autonomous robots, and mystery substances that change from solid to liquid in seconds. There’s something for everyone!

Our camps are packed with awesome, hands-on experiences that allow your child to discover new skills and talents while having fun and making new friends!

Scan to View Camp Programs

Day Camps

Academic Camps

Specialty Camps Sports Camps

SUMMER @Merryhill Schools

Day Camps

Academic Camps Sports Camps

Specialty Camps

It’s not just a camp. It’s an EXPERIENCE. Merryhill Schools Pre-K - Grade 8 • 408-945-9090 750 North Capitol Avenue, San Jose & 1500 Yosemite Drive, Milpitas MH_ParentsPressSiliconValley_Mar23_Camp_6.75x4.687.indd 1

Learn

More May 2023 | ParentsPress.com 31 2/15/23 9:30 AM

We are also offering interactive virtual camps! Kits will be delivered to you! Early-bird discount ends soon. Material fee and delivery charges included. https://thebayarea. madscience.org/parentscamps.aspx

MERRYHILLSCHOOLSUMMER CAMPS (MILPITAS & SAN JOSE) Day Camps • 855-722-8938 Grades Pre-K - 8 At our camp, every activity is a chance to learn, grow, and have fun. Whether it’s scoring a goal in soccer, setting off a rocket, or making new friends, your child will enjoy awesome experiences here. Watch their confidence grow as they conquer new challenges and pursue new interests. https:// www.merryhillschool.com/ camp/summer-camp/

OHLONE KIDS & TEENS (FREMONT & NEWARK) SummerProgram•510-659-6000 Grades 1- 12 Ohlone for Kids & Teens (OFK) offers a unique blend of academic and special interest enrichment classes for students in grades 1-12. Students will be engaging in hands-on learning activities that stimulate their interest and growth. Students can participate in a variety of classes including Arts, Performing & Language Arts, English, Math, Reading, LEGO Robotics, Electronics, Engineering, Science, Social Studies, and SAT/College Preparation. https://www. ohlone.edu/ohloneforkids

ONE GENERATION CAMP (BERKELEY) Day Camp • 808-769-7664 Ages 5-10, CIT 11-18 An outdoor music and dance camp for ages 5-10, and a CIT program for ages 11-18:

Berkeley Day Camp

AGES 5-13 A summer’s worth of adventure, hiking, and outdoor fun packed into every week!    

West African Dance and Hand Drumming, Cuban Dance, Body Percussion, Brazilian Capoeira, and hiking! Kindness, community, and culture through music and dance. Featuring some of the best music and dance teachers in the Bay Area! Through music and dance, incorporated with games, outdoor exploration and hiking, our children learn about kindness, community, and culture. https://www. onegenerationcamp.org/

OPEN MINDS SEASONAL CAMP (MENLO PARK) Day Camp • 650-260-3805 Ages 2-17 Open Minds is a servant leadership organization. We co-create programs with families and students to meet the right balance of challenge and support. Open Minds space is the home of active and vibrant fun. There’s a lot to love at OMS, and not just the warped walls, balance beams, and

jump mats of our epic Ninja Warrior gym. Our dedicated, kind and experienced staff are the backbone of Open Minds and are the reason families come back again and again. Kids of all ages and (dis) abilities are welcome to sign up for camps on a daily or weekly basis, with early drop off and extended care options available. Siblings join programs free of charge to meet the needs of larger families in the Bay Area. Want to have your child spend the day with us in between seasonal camps? No problem! We offer Day Passes Monday-Friday year-round, drop in open gym times, and facility rentals for private birthday and events. Camps and Day Passes are just some of the programs offered through Open Mind’s services. https://www.openmindschool. org

Berkeley Tuolumne and Echo Lake Camp Programs

Scholarships Available Register for Family*, Youth, Counselor, and Leader-in-Training *Weeklong, weekday, and weekend options

Program details available on our online registration portal: rec.berkeleyca.gov

Nine 1-week sessions Extended AM/PM Care Counselor-in-Training Scholarships available

berkeleyca.gov berkeleyca.gov

(Search: Berkeley Day Camp) (Search: Berkeley Day Camp)

32 Parents Press | May 2023

berkeleyca.gov (Search: Overnight Camps)

2023 Jr. K- 8th Grade 7:00am- 6:00pm

SPECIAL OFFFER

! kids r o f made Summer is

Save 20% when you enroll by the month!

Action Day Elementary School 3500 Amber Dr, San Jose, CA 95117 • 408.248.2464 West Valley Middle School 801 Hibiscus Ln, San Jose, CA 95117 • 408.985.2138

www.actiondayschools.com/summer-camp

RIPE FRUIT WRITING (SAN FRANCISCO AND VIRTUAL) Day Camp and Hybrid Options 415-279-1411 Ages 11-17 Ripe Fruit Writing one-week summer camps bring together 8-10 students to gain confidence in their writing voice, aerobicize their imaginations, and develop strong writing skills using exciting and imaginative writing exercises in a safe space. Voted Best Teen Focused camp in SF by Parents Press in 2015. Middle School camps run from 9am12:30pm M-F. High School camps run from 2:30-6pm. Camps take place on the bottom floor of a 120-year-old Edwardian in Dolores Heights and are taught by awardwinning author, Leslie Kirk Campbell, who has over 30 years of experience teaching creative writing to students of all ages. All camps are offered in person. A few are offered as hybrid camps for outof-towners. Healthy snacks included. Students love these

camps. Many return summer after summer.http://www. ripefruitwriting.com/classes/ teen-writing-camps/

SAINTANDREW’SSUMMER CAMP (SARATOGA) Day Camp • 408-867-3785 Ages: 5-14 Do you want to learn how We foster personal growth for children by providing them a fun, safe, and educational environment on our 10-acre campus where they have the opportunity to make lasting memories and new friends. Whether your child is a budding scientist, a future artist, or a sports enthusiast, the Saint Andrew’s Summer Camp is the perfect place for them to spend their summer. Our programs are designed to be engaging, educational, and most of all, fun. So sign up now and give your child an unforgettable summer camp experience! https://www.standrews.org/summer-camp

CONFIDENCE FOR DYSLEXIC MINDS June & July Summer Academic Camps Grades 1-8 ENROLLING NOW athenaacademy.org/summer

May 2023 | ParentsPress.com 33

SUMMERFILM - CINEMA ARTS WORKSHOPS FOR AGES 11-18 (SAN RAFAEL AND ONLINE OPTIONS) Day Camp and Virtual Programs 415-517-6997 Ages 11-18 Join us this summer for a variety of programs that explore all angles of the industry and artistry of film. All in-person camps will take place at the Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center. All online camps will be hosted on our CFI Education Online platform and open to students anywhere in the U.S. Times listed are Pacific Time Zone. Need-based scholarships are available for all programs. http://cfieducation.org/ summerfilm

SUMMER @BASIS (FREMONT) Day Camp, Virtual Camp & Summer Programs Grades TK-5 • 510-767-0898 Grades 6-12 • 510-878-4464 Join Us For A Summer Full Of Possibilities!At Basis summer camp, every activity is a chance to learn, grow, and have fun. Whether it’s scoring a goal in soccer, setting off a rocket, or making new friends, your child will enjoy awesome experiences here. Watch their confidence grow as they conquer new challenges and pursue new interests. It’s not just a camp. It’s an EXPERIENCE. https://fremont.basisindependent.com/ student-life/summer-program/

SUMMER @ ACTION DAY SUMMER @BASIS (SAN (SAN JOSE) JOSE, SUNNYVALE)

Day Camp • 408-248-2464 Grades Jr. K - 3rd

Our summer camps provide each child with the opportunity to fill his or her summer days with diverse experiences and activities. Creative play, arts & crafts, academic review, sports, and picnics, will provide all students with a memorable summer. https:// www.actiondayprimaryplus. com/summer-camp

SUMMER AT ATHENA ACADEMY (PALO ALTO) Day Camp • 650-543-4560 Ages 8-13 Summer at Athena Academy is offering two, week-long skills programs, June 26 – June 30 and July 24 - July 28 for dyslexic and twice-exceptional students with language based challenges, grades 1-8. Our program is specifically designed, utilizing Athena Academy’s unique teaching approach, to help our students build an understanding of the way they learn and grow their confidence. https://athenaacademy.org/ summer-camp/

34 Parents Press | May 2023

Day Camp, Virtual Camp & Summer Programs • 408-351-6159 Grades TK - 12 Join Us For A Summer Full Of Possibilities!At Basis summer camp, every activity is a chance to learn, grow, and have fun. Whether it’s scoring a goal in soccer, setting off a rocket, or making new friends, your child will enjoy awesome experiences here. Watch their confidence grow as they conquer new challenges and pursue new interests. It’s not just a camp. It’s an EXPERIENCE. https://siliconvalley.basisindependent.com/ student-life/summer-program/

SUMMER @STRATFORD (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) Day Camp • 408-244-4073 Grades: Preschool - Middle School Summer@Stratford is back with our academic camp favorites and all NEW day camp programs! This summer, children will have a wide range of options to explore new interests, discover a world of wonder, and enjoy a summer to remember at Stratford! https://www.stratfordschools.com/summer

SUMMERCONSERVATORY OPERA CAMP (SAN FRANCISCO)

THE LAWRENCE SUMMER CAMPS (BERKELEY)

in South Lake Tahoe for kids 8-13. Enjoy the outdoors with detachment from the digital world. Your child will love all the fun-filled traditions of overnight CAMP! Over the 5 days/4 nights at Camp Concord in South Lake Tahoe, campers Agesd 8-13 will enjoy Canoeing, Crawdad Fishing, Hiking, Archery, Volleyball, Swimming, Beach Fun at Lake Tahoe, Skits, Arts & Crafts, Tye Dying Shirts, and Campfires with S’mores. Your child will be disconnected from the digital world (although texting is possible with some providers). Roundtrip bus transportation from Concord to South Lake Tahoe is included, plus all meals, a Camp Concord tee-shirt for tye dying, and all activities. https://friendsofcampconcord.org/youth-camp/

Day Camp • 510-642-5132 Entering 1st-6th Grades

YOUTHMUSICALTHEATER COMPANY (BERKELEY)

Explore, discover, and invent in Summer Camps at The Lawrence Hall of Science, UC Berkeley’s public science center! Campers become budding scientists, engineers, astronauts, and more in our exciting hands-on science camps for 1st–6th grade students. https://lawrencehallofscience.org/visitors/ summer-camps/

Day Camp • 510-595-5514 Grades 7-12

Day Camp • 510-325-6498 Ages 10-18 Summer Conservatory is an ensemble based program for training in singing, acting, movement, theater and music history and theory, languages, and professionalism taught by industry professionals on the campus of San Francisco Opera. Students ages 10-18 participate in masterclasses and rehearsals that focus on the individual and ensemble. The program culminates in an opera performance at the end of the three week program. https://www.sfopera.com/ summerconservatory

WILDCARE’S SUMMER NATURE PROGRAMS (TIBURON, SAUSALITO) Day Camp • 415-453-1000 x19 Ages 7-11 WildCare’s Summer Nature Programs provide young people with an unforgettable wildlife and nature experience! This summer we are offering Nature Hikes and Virtual Wildlife Classes. https://discoverwildcare.org/ summer-nature-programming/

YOUTH CAMP AT CAMP CONCORD (SOUTH LAKE TAHOE) SleepawayCamp•925-671-3006 Ages 8-13 Youth Camp at Camp Concord is a weeklong overnight camp

Summer Musical Theater Workshops for 7th to 12th grade. YMTC is offering 3 in-person workshops this summer appropriate for 7th grade to 12th grade students at its Aquatic Park campus in Berkeley. Class size currently limited to 14 students. http://www.ymtcbayarea. org/ Y

An outdoor music and dance camp for children ages 5-10 plus Counselors in Training

Through music and dance we learn about kindness, community, and culture.

Discounts and Early Bird Available! CIT program for older campers

Join us Summer 2023! 1 and 2-week Sessions: June 5- July 14

Featuring: West African Hand Drumming West African Dance Brazilian Capoeira Cuban Dance Body Percussion Storytelling, Hiking, and More Hiking and more…!