Accessible Dance classes for children- Luka 'Lazylegs' Patrelli

Luka 'Lazylegs' Patrelli was born with artherrosis and has had 16 surgeries between the time he was 7 months old to 17 years old.  He started his own style with skateboarding, then started dancing at 15 years old.  He started breakdancing using his own style, and now works with dance studios along with his wife and business partner, to make them more accessible for children with physical disabilities.  He was on the Ellen show over the holiday season and showed his dance moves, he was amazing!  He claims his inspiring dancing shows, "No excuses. No limits!"

Resources:

Luca Patuelli
lazylegz.com

See Luca perform on ellen on tube
or  at http://www.elementallity.ca/the-ellen-degeneresshow-lazylegs-break-dancing/

How to exit an elementary school mid-year graciously?

I had a friend call me on the phone to ask me how she should take her child out of school, as they are moving to Colorado.  These are my suggestions:

1.  Do not say anything negative about the school to parents at the school, since you are now leaving,  it is not fair to others who are deciding to stay.  Stay gracious, friendly and welcoming.

2.  Tell the teacher and the principal first, before telling other parents or children.

3.  Give the school reasonable notice since schools rely on funding based on your child's attendance.  Two weeks is a preferable time, though you can also do an independent study if you do not have that much notice.  Set up the independent student as far ahead as possible and you will need to pick up work ahead of time.

4.  Send a farewell card to the teachers and administrator.

5.  Send a farewell e-mail to parents and/or your child's friends.  Be careful about telling one family or friend before another, as this can cause hard feelings.

6.  If time, set up a farewell playmate or picnic and invite your child's friends and their families.

7.  Bring a gift to teacher and other caring staff on the last day to show appreciation for what they have done for your child.

8.  Lastly, send a postcard from your new destination, school to share with the class.

Holiday LIghts, Gilroy Gardens, Gilroy, CA- Our Family Tradition

Soon, it will be 2014!  The presents have been opened, we went to Christmas eve service at church, had a huge meal, what is missing?  I remembered today that we haven't yet gone to Gilroy Gardens Holiday Lights!  There are two more days of the festivities, today December 29th and tomorrow, December 30th!  The hours are from 3:00PM to 8:00PM.  Why go to this event?  There are millions of twinkling lights and it is truly magical, even for adults.  There aren't the same kind of rides as most amusement parks, so the focus will be more on the lights and the magic of the season!  This event is free with 2014 membership.

There are so many things to do now as we get ready for 2014, but I am thinking we'll still do the drive tomorrow to go to Holiday Lights!

Resources:

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
3050 Hecker Pass Hwy
Gilroy, CA  95020
Information and Guest Services
(408) 840-7100
http://www.gilroygardens.org

Where to stay in Gilroy Gardens:

I've stayed at both of the places below, they were clean and nicely maintained.

Best Western Plus, Forest Park Inn, Gilroy, CA
Hilton Garden Inn, Gilroy, CA
Contact Expedia.com for rates

Lego kits for ages 6 to 12 years, "Castle Kit"

One of the things my son got from his uncle was a lego "Castle" kit for ages 6 to 12.  The kit includes 248 pieces and this is a building toy.  My son is 5 and 1/2 and needed someone to sit with him and help him put this together.  Then, when it was completed, it did come apart.  It is not a permanent toy after it was built, and it is important for children to be told this as it was a little upsetting for my son when it started coming apart.

My son said, "I like this kit because it was fun to put together!"

Resources:

Lego Castle kit
Building Toy
LEGO.com
Item # 6024772

LEGO Systems, Inc.
Enfield, CT  06083

Toys this Christmas- costumes from the Disney Store

One of the presents my son got for Christmas he already had at home, luckily my mom had the receipt so yesterday we went to the Disney store and my son got to pick out something else.  He said,

"I loved picking an Iron Man Suit because it was cool."

My son hasn't even seen the movie Ironman, he is only four and he's watched only a few full length movies in his lifetime.

The exchange was fairly easy!  I always tell people who buy for children at Christmas to always get a gift receipt and pack it with the present.  Things either don't fit, or don't quite match the taste of the children, or they already have the item.  Plus, why waste money?  When I give toys to children, my ultimate desire is for them to have fun with the item!

I really like going with the child myself, especially Disney, and watching them pick out a toy!  It is so much fun to be at the Disney Store!

Update:  My son and I took the Ironman suit home, size 5-6, and it was too tight in the chest, it kept coming undone.  So, we went back to the Disney store and returned the Ironman costume for a size 7-8 Captain America costume.

Disney was great about these returns and treated us very respectfully!

This year my son started his own workshop, and he enjoyed making presents

This year, at age 5, my son talked to out of state family on the phone, and he asked them what they wanted him to make for them.  He has set up a workshop at our house, and he has been making presents.  He claims his specialty is a candle holder, but he also makes a pencil holder.  Tonight, at Christmas dinner, my son's gift to his uncle, my brother, shone brightly as the centerpiece, and my son seemed delighted.  He now has two more orders for his candleholder from family in Michigan.

Spasso Coffeehouse in Oakland, CA, open at 7:00AM- going there to get coffee for the day!

Going to Spasso Coffeehouse in Oakland, CA at 7:00AM today to get an almond milk honey latte.  It is a relaxing place to wake up, have a warm drink, and get ready for busy Christmas Day!

Resources:

Spasso Coffeehouse
6021 College Ave.
(Between Armanino and Harwood)
Oakland, CA  94618
spassocoffeehouse.com
(510) 428-1818

Christmas Eve service, our tradition

In my family when I was going up we'd go to my mom's side of the family on Christmas Eve, and my dad's side on Christmas.  Now, with our son, we have started the tradition of going to church on Christmas Eve.  They sing carols, the children do an impromptu Shepherds play with costumes, and ends of singing in a circle with candles.  My son was so excited to go tonight that all day he'd say, "Mommy, we don't want to miss church tonight."  At the end, everyone got a chocolate kiss as they left the church.  The church we go to has been around for 100 years and the architect was Julia Morgan, so it is historical and gorgeous!  Taking my son to church last night was the one thing I felt I completely "got right"  this season.  I did not have the holiday party for William's friends I wanted to have, with ideas I saw in a magazine.  I did not have my friends and my husband's friends over for an elegant dinner, like I wanted to.  I didn't even get any of my holiday cards out yet, and am going to picture people on the 26th for cards, and will send New Year's cards instead.   Though I feel bad about what I didn't get done, after going to service last night I feel better.  When I saw my son run out the door, going to church, with his new suit I got on sale on Macy's that he picked out, I was immensely proud of him!

Santa's visit

My son wanted a HUGE boat with a remote control for Christmas from Santa.  I told Santa that him and his elves can only make so many toys for all the boys and girls, and so children cannot always get exactly what they want. Sometimes, Santa even has to have his elves go to the store, but he prefers making them.   Also, santa sometimes has to get smaller toys so he doesn't hurt his back.  Will  my son get the HUGE boat?  We'll see?  I'll report after he arrives.  Last year he ate the cookies, drank the milk.  This year we left milk, cookies, and tylenol as I heard that his back was bothering him.  Be careful Santa, all the boys and girls need you!

Recommended toy for children ages 4+, wooden block construction set

My son is 5, and he loves building with wood blocks!  This toy is a staple for my son and is something he doesn't get bored of.  I love it as it inspires creativity and uses his imagination!

Resources:

Kinder Blocks
Classic Wood Construction Set
IDEAL TIMELESS TOYS
No:6480
Poof Slinky Inc.
P.O. Box 701394
Plymouth, MI  48170 -0964
www.poof.slinky.com

Recommended places to stay in Grass Valley, CA- dog and child friendly

The Sierra Mountain Inn in Grass Valley, CA is both dog and child friendly!  Also, it is three blocks  from downtown grass valley, which is a cute, old fashioned town.  The people there are amazingly friendly.

Resources:

Sierra Mountain Inn
www.sierramountaininn.com
(530) 273-8133
816 West Main Street
Grass Valley, CA  95945

Nevada City School of the Arts, Nevada City, CA- an arts charter school

My son and I were at the Grass Valley Cornish Festival when we met a 10 year old boy who was playing violin at the Cornish Festival.  He was dressed up in Cornish costume and was playing holiday music, but he also told me that he can play "Smoke on the Water."  He was so confident in his musical ability and stage presence that I asked him where he went to school, he told me, "I go to the Nevada City School of the Arts."  

 I hadn't heard of that school so I did a little research, and this is what I found.

Their recipe for success:

15 passionate teachers
2 music instructors
4 resident artists
12 community artists
9 instructional aides
13 support staff
347 students

1 GOAL

Resources:

Nevada School of the Arts
13032 Bitney Springs Rd.
Building #8
Nevada City, CA  95959
Phone:  530-273-7736  x218
FAX:  530-273-1378

Best place to stay in Nevada City with both dogs and children, Outside Inn, Nevada City, CA

The Outside Inn has a motel style look and feel to it, but it is updated so there is organic Peerless coffee in the room, yellow stars with blue sky on the ceiling, the walls are all painted yellow, and a vincent Van Gogh painting "starry night" on the wall.  Since it is motel style, it is easy to take your dog outside for a walk in the morning.  This place is walking distance to the town of Nevada City.  This town is really decked out for the holidays with twinkling white lights everywhere!  It is hard not to be in the holiday spirit as you walk down this street!

There is no breakfast included, but the rate is reasonable, and it is walking distance to lots of cafes down the street.

Resources:

575  E. Broad Street
Nevada City, CA
95959
Phone:  info@outsideinn.com
www.outsideinn.com

E is for Empire Mine State Historic Park, Grass Valley, CA

The Empire Mine is located about 50 miles from Sacramento.  The park is 856 acres and sits among gorgeous forested foothills at elevations of 2,500 and 2,900 feet.

My 5 year old son really enjoyed this museum yesterday, in fact, he wants to go back today!

They had a mining kit that he was eyeing yesterday, I also discovered that they have mining clubs still existing as there still is gold in the hills.  In Fact, recently there was a vote about whether to open this mine again, but it lost by 5 votes.  The word by the park rangers was that many people are worried about environmental damage to the area if the mine opens again.

The mine had a small gift shop with some "fools gold" which my son is fascinated with!  There are mostly adult items at the shop, such as jewelry, etc.

My son said, "I liked going down into the shaft."  We waited until other people were also walking down into it as it was a little dark and scary for me, too!  The most interesting part of this museum for my son was this shaft viewing area.  The ore "skips" that moved the rock to waiting ore cars sped through the portal at 600 and 1200 feet a minute.  The deepest shaft is more than 5,000 feet down.

Resources:

Empire Mine State Historic Park
10791 East Empire Street
Grass Valley, CA  95945
(530) 273-8522

Victorian Christmas Festival in Nevada City

Nevada City is where one of my favorite Hallmark holiday films, "The Christmas Card," was filmed.

Sunday, December 22nd, at 1:30PM  is the Nevada City Victorian Christmas Festival.  Here's the official description:

The enticing aromas of roasted chestnuts and hearty holiday foods fill the air, along with cries of street vendors hawking their wares and lamp-lit streets filled to overflowing with authentic Christmas treasures. It’s the 35th one & only Victorian Christmas-full of new shows, sights, sounds and attractions.

Welcome the holiday season in style in historic Nevada City, a quaint, Gold Rush town nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Sierra where each year the town’s picturesque downtown transforms into a genuine Christmas card come to life. It’s a magical setting of hilly streets outlined with twinkling white lights and authentic gas lamps, wandering minstrels and carolers dressed in Victorian attire, and a myriad of visitors sharing holiday cheer and good tidings.

This annual, family tradition takes place three Wednesday evenings and two Sunday afternoons in December and features holiday activities for all ages:  carriage rides, live entertainment, savory yuletide treats and libations, and of course, Father Christmas!

There is oh so much to see, hear, feast upon and experience at Victorian Christmas. Whether you’ve been naughty or nice…we look forward to welcoming the best of the holiday Season with you and yours!

For anyone looking for the Christmas Card movie, here it is:

Cornish Christmas in Grass Valley

The Cornish Christmas Festival in Grass Valley, California is tonight until 9pm.  We are having a great time!  

Lots of food, crafts, etc.  Hot cider.  Hot chocolate.  Cornish pasties.  Clam Chowder.  Tons of other food.  Police are patrolling on horseback.  Lots of people; great way to get into the Christmas spirit.  

One big highlight for us -- chestnuts roasting on an open fire in front of the Holbrooke Hotel.  Just like the song.  And we have just learned that my son loves roasting chestnuts.  

Another highlight -- a 10-year old student at Nevada City School of the Arts playing Christmas songs on the violin.

Holiday Gift Idea: Chunky Monkey, set of 10 markers

This set of markers is wonderful for a child's small hands.  My son has a journal and he draws pictures in it with these markers. They have been so well used that I need to get him a new set soon.  Students first writing is drawing, and then sharing about what they have read.  My son loves to draw pictures of trains right now.  When I taught Kindergarten, we would have them work on coloring a picture with at least three colors.

Resources:

Chunky Monkey
Set of 10 markers
Manufactured by International Arrivals LLC
Oceanside, CA92056
www.intlarrivals.com

(On the container it says it is not suitable for children under 4)

Holiday Gift Ideas- Play-Doh Diggin' Rigs-- Chomper The excavator

Play-Doh has a whole new series called, Diggin'  Rigs with all kinds of tools for playing with Play-Doh!  My son has really been enjoying them.  This kit has supplies to create pretend bricks and build a wall.  Then, when it's done, they can bash it and tear it down.   After a day at school, my son loves to smash, press, and build!

Notice:  The Play-Doh products contain wheat!

Contents:
Playset with boom and claw
hand tool
book mold
2 cans of play-doh

www.play-Doh
1-800-327-8264

No batteries required

This set includes everything you need for fun!  I love the way I opened the package and was set to go, no batteries, and not much assembly!

Holiday Gift Idea: Mario's Pizzeria- No batteries required

My son has several of the WOW toys that he's collected.  The Mario's Pizzeria set is fun because it has the following qualities:

-Can spin the chef to choose the pizza toppings.
-There is a magic oven with push to bake button
 -It includes a pizza delivery truck and 3 removable pizzas

This is a fun toy for role-playing, imaginary play, and language development.

Resources:

Mario's Pizzeria
WOW Toys, Ground Floor
Palace Wharf, Rainville Road
London, W6  9HN, UK

We get the WOW toys from Games Unlimited in Danville, CA.  They have a large selection of WOW toys.

Holiday gift idea- Coastguard Carl, Wow Toys, no batteries required

When my son and I saw all the fire trucks, helicopters, and rescue cars in front of Rockridge Bart station, he was fascinated.  Then, later that day he had earned points toward a toy, and he gravitated toward this toy.  It is a little young for him, but he is still really enjoying as he loves dramatic play!  For 3 plus years, it is fun for role play and exploration.  To be honest, I personally prefer wooden toys, but there are just some things you can't make out of wood and cloth!

Qualities of Coastguard Carl:

-A squeeze trigger to activate friction-powered rotors
-Flying doctor and patient figures
-Magic pick-up stretcher, then you can twist the searchlight to release
-No batteries
-1 and 1/2 years to 5 years (These age limits depend on your child and their interests, and the WOW figures are great for dramatic play!)

Resources:

Coastguard Carl
WOW Toys
Ground Floor
Palace Wharf, Rainville Road
London, W6 9HN, UK
wowtoys.com

We get our WOW toys in Danville, CA from Games Unlimited.  They have a large selection of WOW toys.

Science gift- 4X-6X Two Way Bug Viewer

When I was at the Salmon Festival with my son in Knights Ferry, CA, some of the booths had these nifty two way bug viewers they were using to view salmon eggs, etc.  I wrote down the information on the box since I want to get my son one for the holidays.    The following are the things the bug viewer can do:

-Allows 2 people to view  simultaneously
-Ventilated bug viewer with base and easy-grip handles
-top view 6X magnification
-Bottom view 4X magnification

For ages 5 and up (Though younger children could use this with supervision.)

Discovery Zone
Edu-Toys
No. BL010

Rockridge Kids in Rockridge, CA is closing at the end of December!-- DRAFT

Teddy Bear Teas, for Children.... DRAFT....

Nutcracker.... (DRAFT)

Lafayette Library - Traditional Folksongs of the Winter Holidays - Thursday, December 19, 2013 - 6:00-8:00PM- FREE

I love libraries!  I remember when I was a child growing up in the midwest, we would go to the library at least once a week.  My father liked taking a drive and going to different libraries in our area.  To me, libraries are a safe and cozy place to be, a haven from the stresses of life.  For my son, I want him to have that same feeling.  Libraries are free, and when I went to Peet's today in Lafayette, they were crowded to the brim, and there was no where to sit.  I got my gingerbread, almond latte (yes, Peet's has almond milk now), and headed over to this library where it is humming but not crowded.

This Thursday, December 19th, in the LLLC Community Hall, there is a concert of the Traditional Folksongs of the Winter Holidays,  It is from 6:00-8:00PM and no reservations are necessary.  We already have a commitment for this Thursday evening, but if we didn't then we'd go!

Resources:

Traditional Folksongs of the Winter Holidays
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation
Ages:  All ages
Time:  6:00 to 8:00PM
Fee:  Free
Reserve:  No reservations necessary

The LLC Library writes,  "Join us for a very special free holiday concert with Legendary folksinger, storyteller, and autoharp virtuoso Adam Miller.  Well-known (and not so well known) sing-along songs of the holiday season; traditional folksongs, carols for the new year, Hanukkah, Christmas, and the Winter Solstice- from pre-Christian times to the present."

Lafayette Library and Learning Center
Home of the Glenn Seaborg Learning Consortium (GSLC)
Information at LLLCF.org
(925) 283-6513
Lafayette, CA

Santa Trains in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area....(DRAFT)

Why is homeschooling increasing? Part I

I've been asked by several parents at parks and playmates, "Why do you think homeschooling is increasing?"  One mom, who is also a teacher, told me, "I know how the sausage is made, which is why I won't eat the sausage!"  Interestingly, a high number of homeschoolers have one or more parents who are teachers.

 In 2012, Education News stated, "Since 1999, the number of children who are being home schooled has increased by 75%." (Education News, Monday, May 21, 2012.)

One homeschool mom and blogger, wrote some interesting quotes on her blog, unplugyourfamily.blogspot.com:

"Thinking of life as fragile puts things into great perspective."

"We follow our hearts and our minds and learn about things that interest us."

"The ability to allow our children to be the authors of their own education is priceless."

"Parents should always have responsibility of primary educator."

Resources used from mom who writes, unplugyourfamily.blogspot.com:
(I haven't personally used the resources below, but I want to look into them.)

Education News article
http://www.educationnews.org/parenting/number-of-homeschoolers-growing-nationwide.

Educating the Whole Hearted Child, by Clay and Sally Clarkston

Dr. Brian Ray
(NHERI.org)

The Unplugged Family blog
unplugyourfamily.blogspot.com

Jolly Phonics Program

Sonlight's Language Arts K program

Recommended Winter and Holiday Book - Stranger in the Woods - A Photographic Fantasy

I still have a friend who I met in Kindergarten!  Her mom gave my son the book "Stranger in the Woods" a few years ago.  It also comes in a movie DVD version as well as a soundtrack.   I love this book as it reminds me of growing up in the snow and all that includes!  It truly is a photographic fantasy!  The book has won many awards, including the 2004 National Humane Society KIND Award.  It is dedicated "For those who protect wild places and to the snowman that lives in every child's heart."

Resources:

Stranger in the Woods- A Photographic Fantasy
by Carl R. Sams II & Jean Stoick
Carl R. Sams II Photography, Inc.
361 Whispering Pines
Milford, MI  48380
(800) 552-1867
(248) 685-2422
Fax 248-685-1643
www.strangerinthewoods.com
www.carlsams.com
ISBN 0-9671748-0-5

Recommended Holiday Book- Frosty the Snowman, music and lyrics by Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins, music by Kenny Loggins

I took this to a Kindergarden class last week to read to the class.  I love this book because it is a great holiday book, yet every child can appreciate it, no matter what religion, beliefs, or holidays they celebrate.  This book also includes in the back cover a 3-song CD recorded by Grammy Award Winner Kenny Loggins.  I read the book to the class, then we brainstormed words about snow, winter, snowman, and I wrote them on the board, some with pictures for reminders.  Then, the students drew a picture, and some of them wrote words or sentences while I played the CD.  It was an excellent K lesson and was very uplifting.  I belief kindergarden should be a time to get children jazzed about school, and this book brought smiles and excitement to the children's faces!

Resources:

Frosty the Snowman
Music & Lyrics by Steve Nelson & Jack Rollins
Illustrated by Wade Zahares
Includes a 3-song CD recorded by Grammy Award Winner Kenny Loggins
Imagine! a Peter Yarrow Book
ISBN # 978-1-62354-012-8

My child's idea - making a candle holder out of clay

"Today, we made a candle holder out of clay.  First, I thought of the idea.  I got the idea from Godly Play yesterday.  I learned that  back then, they knew how to make candle holders that looked like a tea pots.  That's what they told me.  That's the only way they knew how to make them.   Back then, they didn't need to have candles, but they used oil and wicks.  I made it out of clay, with a handle.  I needed water too, and a 'stirring' straw design with.  Then, my mommy found a candle holder to put in it, and lit it.  We decided not to use oil, because we didn't have any oil, but mommy had beeswax candles.  And that is how I made this candle."

Transcribed by momma, idea by Matthew

Resources:

Clay

Crayola Air-Dry Clay

White, NET 5 lb.

No Baking, Dries Hard

crayola.com

code # 57-5055-0-952

style # 57-5055

This is a fine, natural earth clay which air dries to a hard solid.  Use it to make clay sculptures, decorative items, or plaques.  No baking or firing needed.  

While working with this clay, use only water to soften clay or join pieces.  

Drying time for a project is generally 2-3 days, depending the size and thickness of the sculpture.  See crayola.com for tips on working with Air Dry clay.

Beeswax cake candles
from Nova Naturals catalogue
comes with 12 candles, 3" tall, natural or multi-colored
#2695  $5.00
www.novanaturals.com

Set of three brass candle holders
(These holders are from Germany)
Solid Brass
Holds a 0.5" candle.  #2645

Upcoming Jewish Holidays

As a teacher and parent, I think it is important to know about holidays, within your culture as well as others.

Here are some upcoming and just passed Jewish holidays:

The first Chanukah candle was November 27th, Chanukah came early this year.

Chanukah- November 28-December 5th

Tu B' Shevat- January 16th

Purim Night- March 15th

First Passover Seder- April 14th

Passover- April 15-22

Shavuot- June 4-5

Tisha B' Av- August 5th

Rosh Hashanah - September 25-26

Kol Nidre- October 3

Yom Kippur- October 4

Afikomen Judaica, jewish children's books, toys, etc.

Afikomen Judaica has a wealth of Jewish books, toys for children, candles, etc.  They have complimentary tea and a children's playspace.  They are located in Berkeley, CA.

Resources:

Afikomen Judaica
LIVE.
SHOP.
SHMOOZE.

www.afikomen.com
3042 Claremont Avenue
Berkeley, CA  94705
Phone:  (510) 655-1977
E-mail:  mail@afikomen.com

Hint:  Call before visiting or look at website as they are closed on all Jewish holidays.

Tot Shabbat at Chochmat Halev in Berkeley, CA

"Come sing, dance, and bless with Jen Miriam Kantor (also a certified Music Together teacher, Razel the Camel, and her other fabulous puppet friends!  The half hour service includes candle-lighting, sing-alongs with guitar, drums and instruments, puppets, and dancing."

Specially geared to children aged 0-5
The service is followed by vegetarian pot-luck dinner.
Please bring a vegetarian dish to share.

Start time is 6:30 pm on first Friday and 5:30 pm on third Friday of each month.

Resources:

Chochmat Halev Tot Shabbat
(Check the calendar at www.chochmat.org)

Homeschooling, Connecting Waters Charter School

I met a mother today who has her daughter registered at the Connecting Waters Charter School in Modesto.  She meets with a teacher monthly at a local library, and receives money for curriculum and programs such as music, dance, science classes, etc.  Supposedly, they give more money toward programs then other charter schools.

Resources:

Connecting Waters Charter School

Hand Book Sketch Journal- from Arch Store, SF, CA

I discovered a perfect journal for my son, it is the Hand Book Sketch Journal.  It can be purchased from Arch Store in San Francisco, CA which is in the Dogpatch neighborhood.

Resources:

Hand Book Sketch Journal

Purchase from the Arch Store, San Francisco, CA

Recommended bilingual language arts program- Estrellita Accelerated Beginning Spanish Reading

I was at a cafe a few days ago with my son, and I met a teacher in the Berkeley Unified School District who teaches in a bilingual class.  I was telling her that I wanted to continue helping my son in Spanish so he can eventually be biliterate.  She recommended looking at the resources in the Estrellita Accelerated Beginning Spanish Reading program.  I looked at the website this morning and it is written, "The most comprehensive and effective elementary school bilingual program on the market."

Resources:

Estrellita Accelerated Beginning Spanish Reading
www.estrellita.com
Phone:  (303) 779-2610
FAX:  (303) 779-2640
E-mail:  info@estrellita.com
Address:
6050 Greenwood Plaza Blvd.  #120
Greenwood Village, CO  80111

Zoo Phonics

Bullying- an epidemic in schools today

Why do I hear so much about bullying?  A few days ago, I was in a cafe, and the woman who worked there told me about her son who has been bullied all year.  Her story brought tears to my eyes, because her son is in high school.  He is so young to hate school and not feel safe.   It is so sad for me to constantly hear these stories now about children being bullied at school,  while  parents are working hard to make a living and wanting to trust the school system to keep their child safe.  What a delight it would be for their children to want to go to school, to enjoy learning, to feel safe.  I am going to research what successful schools are doing to create a safe, peaceful, and accepting environment.  I am looking forward to sharing my research.

Teacher Mama

Jenga

Our son received a Jenga game over the holidays last year.  We played occasionally, maybe one game at a time.  We ended up putting it away because we weren't using it very much.

I broke it out the other day.  We've been playing maybe ten games at a time - he just loves it.  The game is a building game that includes a bit of strategy.  Perfect for him now that he is 5 1/2.

My son didn't want to go to school today

My son didn't want to go to school today.  A week ago he was hit and bullied by another child at school.

The New York Times and other news sources are reporting on the graphic details about what happened at Sandy Hook Elementary School a year ago.  I am part of a brand new generation of mothers who have to face the following scenario: when their child doesn't want to go to school, and they look at you with big teary eyes, I wonder, "What if?"

It doesn't help when I was watching KTVU news last night for the weather, and they said they now have the live words of what was happening at the elementary school on December 14th.  It said to go on KTVU.com and look under national news, Sandy Hook.  Will I look?  No.   Does it bother me?  Yes.

A year ago, on December 14th, I was teaching.  I remember parents looking in the window, but I didn't officially know what happened until the recess break.  Teachers and administrators were shocked.

Today is a beautiful day, but in my heart I still feel sad about December 14, 2012.  Parents will never again feel completely safe when they drop their child off to school.  I wonder if there were any children that day at Sandy Hook who didn't want to go to school that morning?  My heart goes out to those parents.

Toy Rocket - waterproof and includes 2 astronauts

I got my son the Rocket from Green Toys at the Whole Foods Market in Lafayette, CA.  I like this Company, Green Toys, because the products are made from 100% recycled plastic.  As it says on the box, "This saves energy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and minimizes carbon footprint."  I like purchasing products from companies that are working with recycling products.  Also, the Green Toys Products meet all international toy safety standards, and contain no BPA, PVC, or phthalates.  They are even safe to use with real food, and dishwasher safe.  The 3-2-1 Blast Off Rocket has a detachable top capsule, two flip-down doors, and includes two astronauts.

Resources:

3-2-1 Blast Off!  Rocket
www.greentoys.com
Made In USA
100% curbside collected, recycled plastic
Green Toys Inc.
912 Cole Street, Suite 283
San Francisco, CA  94117
($24.99 at Whole Foods in Lafayette, CA in November 2013)

The Mommy Hook, perfect for connecting to strollers or shopping carts

I found the Mommy Hook when my son was younger, but I still use it sometimes now as he still likes to ride in his BOB sometimes.  It hooks to the Bob, other stroller, or even a shopping cart.  It fits almost all stroller handles and doesn't slide.   The mommy hook holds such things as diaper bags, shopping bags, camera bags, purses, toys, groceries, or athletic accessories.

Resources:

The Mommy Hook, stroller hanger
From CITI Kids in San Francisco, CA on Geary
www.momdadandbaby.com
Distributed by Keen
7404 W. Detroit Street Suite 100
Chandler, AZ  85226
888-376-4763
www.keendistribution.com

Classic Train Set, Lights and Sounds!

My son and I had visited the train museum in Sacramento, CA and we picked up the Classic Train Set.  It is fairly small and compact compared to other trains sets in box boxes.  I recommend it for a present, though this set is not big enough to fit around the tree.

Resources:

Wow Toyz
103 Panton Road
Vergennes, VT  05491 USA
www.wowtoyz.com
Item #WT-TR14
$14.99 at the CA State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, CA

Recommended Pajamas and Long Johns for children up to 6 years old- Under the Nile

My favorite pajamas and Long Johns for my 5 year old son are definitely Under the Nile Long Johns.  They are made of 100% handpicked organic Egyptian cotton, and are incredible soft!  I usually get them at  Whole Foods, but they can also be ordered online.  They sizes only go up to 6 years old, so soon I'll have to find another brand for him.  They are perfect for wearing under clothes on chilly days too!  A mom started the company and her story is on the company website.  I love these PJ's! They are even dyed with natural, "metal-free" colors and fair traded for the benefit of all the people producing their product.

Resources:

Under the Nile PJ's (Kids Long John's)- $32.00 online
100% handpicked Egyptian cotton
1-800-710-1264
underthenile.com

The Little Ice Rink, Alameda, CA

One of our traditions this time of year is going ice skating at the Little Ice Rink in Alameda, CA at South Shore Center.  This place is the most family friendly ice arena that I've found in the bay area, especially since they have these orange skating aides called, Bobby the Seal, that the children can hang onto while they skate.  It is a great way for little ones to both learn to skate and develop their skill and confidence.  We went there for the first time this season on Tuesday night.  My son actually skated from 8:00PM to 9:30PM.  Usually his bedtime is 8:00PM but he was having so much fun, and it is also Thanksgiving vacation, so why not!

We also had dinner at Panera Bread, which is also in the South Shore Center.  My son likes the kids macaroni and cheese, which comes with an organic yogurt.  He also likes the black cherry smoothie, which they make with organic Stoneyfield farms yogurt.  We almost went again last night but we were both too tired.

Resources:

The Little Ice Rink
at South Shore Center
Alameda, CA
November 8th-January 20th
(510) 629-1-ICE (1423)

Adults $15.00 Including skates, $10.00 if you bring your own skates

Children (up to 8 years old)  $10.00, including skates, $6.00 if you bring your own skates

Bobby the Seal- $5.00 (skating aide)

Christmas Fantasy Carousel at Tilden Park in Berkeley, CA

Every year, at holiday time, the antique carousel at Tilden Park is decked out with lights and other fanciful decorations after Thanksgivng.  Each year, I think about it after the decorations are already being taken down.  This year I am determined to visit early.  The "Christmas Fantasy" is from November 29rh  to December 23rd.  If you are looking for something to get you into the holiday spirit, and feel like an evening drive into Tilden Park, then this will be a fun adventure!

Resources:

Christmas Fantasy
Tilden Park Antique Carousel
November 29th- December  23rd
Time:  5:30PM to 8:30PM
Prices:  $10.00 for 7 rides
             $2.00 per ride
Http://www.ebparks.org/parks/tilden#merry

Bullying in kindergarden - yes it really happens! - Part I

My son started kindergarden this past September.  In the beginning, he loved his teacher, new friends, and school.  Somewhere along the line, things changed for him.  When I picked up, he seemed more grumpy and withdrawn, he wasn't excited to go to school in the morning and refused to get dressed, and have breakfast.  He wasn't as sweet!  When did this shift happen?  I feel so horrible to say that I don't quite remember as I just thought the honeymoon had worn off at school, so I did my job of mom and did "tough love" by making him go to school!

I really noticed he was being bullied for sure after the Veteran's Day holiday.   I actually saw him being bullied, which practically ripped out my insides and made me vomit (which would not have helped things).   The details need to be changed to protect the others involved, but I will write more in Part II.

This is the first Saturday that it is all hitting me.  I met with his teacher for a conference yesterday, and now I need to decide if I will send him back after the Thanksgiving holiday.

Esalen for families with children

I met a teacher recently whose daughter had attended the Gazebo Park School, at Esalen Institute.  Her daughter is now in college, but she raved about this program.  Esalen is an amazing space at the edge of the ocean, to take classes, and get a massage at the edge of a cliff!

The Gazebo Park School Early Childhood Program is a "one acre outdoor wonderland where children up to first grade engage their bodies and minds and have a fantastic time in the process."

The Gazebo is open from 9 AM to 4:30PM, Monday through Friday.

For tuition information and reservations, contact gazebo@esalen.org or call
(415) 667-3026.

What is blended learning?

Blended learning is extremely popular right now in schools across the country.  It is a term increasingly used to describe the way e-learning is being combined with traditional classroom methods and independent study to create a new, hybrid teaching methodology.

I found a blended learning "toolkit," a website sponsored by the University of Central Florida.

Resources:

Blended Learning Toolkit
http://blended.online.ucf.edu/

Lango- Learning French, Spanish or Mandarin

My son started taking Spanish classes with Lango when he was only 2 years old.  The program uses songs, games, and storytelling to teach either French, Spanish, or Mandarin.

There are puppets, books, and CD's available on the Lango website.  My son is starting to really enjoy a few of the books I got free when I took the class.  In fact, tonight, I ordered the Cosmo puppet, plus  the Wen, Ms. L., and Luc dolls.  I had gotten a few of the other dolls free when  my son had taken the classes.

Resources:

Lango
www.langokids.com

Saint Francis in the Schools- Free event, Wednesday October 30, 2013- Lakeside Park, Oakland

Francis in the Schools is a non-profit organization that offers free field trips to San Francisco Bay area children living in the poorest neighborhoods of our cities.  The field trip includes a civics-related theatrical presentation followed by an afternoon in the park, where the children are served a delicious free lunch and are offered an Umbrian, Renaissance-style faire.

Today, Francis in the Schools is hosting an event at Lakeside Park in Oakland.  This proves to be a beautiful and inspirational event!

There will be no parking on Bellevue Avenue in Oakland at Lake Merrit today until 5:00PM because of the event.

Resources:

Terry H. Johnson
FrancisInTheSchools.org
(925) 212-7835

Train Rides- Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad- last train rides for the season.

I called the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroads today and discovered that the official last train rides for the season are October 31st.  Yet, while they will only do railcars onclosed on Friday, they will be open for 11:00AM steam rides on November 2nd and 3rd, weather permitting.  This train is located on the South entrance of Yosemite, near Oakhurst.

Resources:

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroads
56001 Yosemite Hwy 41
Fish Camp, CA  93633

Trick or Treating, Downtown Sonora, 3-5PM

Sonora is such a gorgeous town, a perfect backdrop to trick or treating.  There will be trick or treating from 3 to 5 on October 26, 2013

Fall Festivals- Salmon Festival 2013, Knights Ferry, CA

Each year, in Knights Ferry, CA, the locals have a salmon festival at the Knights Ferry Covered Bridge to celebrate the salmon!  They have the following food and activities:

-Food, such as BBQd salmon
-Historic Tours
-Live Music
-Fish Print Shirts
-Salmon Obstacle course
-Fiy Fishing demos

Train Rides- Harvest Haunt Express- October 26, 27 2013- Jamestown, CA

Tomorrow my son and I are going on the Harvest Haunt Express in Jamestown, cA.  Specially decorated excursion trains depart on the hour from 11AM to 3 PM.  This is Railtown's answer to Halloween!  The excursion is only 45 minutes.  The trains are specially decorated and have a "skeleton crew" aboard to help out.

Resources:

Harvest Haunt Express Train Rides
October 26 & 27, 2013
11AM- 3 PM, 45 minute ride
18115 5th Avenue, Jamestown, CA  95327
(209) 989-3953

Favorite Snacks for children- Fruit Straws

As I've written in previous blog posts, at my son's school the children need to bring both a snack in a bag and a lunch.  Finding both lunches and snacks that I can pack and that my son will actually eat have been harder than some college classes!  I thought being a mom would be easier than college but for me it isn't!  I found a healthy fruit roll up this past week called Plum Kids organic fruit straws.  There isn't even any sugar which is a definite plus!  My son liked the fact that he could use it as a straw in his milk!  The top two ingredients are organic apple puree and organic apple juice.  It has 1 gram of fiber and 10% daily recommended vitamin c.  It contains 9 grams of sugar.  Ideally, I prefer a real apple or other fruit, but I've been finding too many apples with only a bite taken out of it leaking in his lunchbox.  I'm desperate for a at least few days of non-mess lunches!

Resources:

Plum Kids
Organic Fruit Straws
real fruit snacks
Strawberry Vanilla
Distributed by
Nest Collective, Inc.
Emeryville, CA  94608
1-877-914-PLUM
INFO@PLUMORGANICS.COM
Certified organic by Oregon Tilth

Recommended book on CD- Toad and Frog

I found this CD at a local bookstore and my five year old son loves it!  It is an original cast recording from a play produced by Robert Reale.  The voices are so real and amazing that it feels like you are at the theater.  It is so fun that I really enjoy it too.  I just moved it to the car, and we listened to it on a car trip!  This CD is highly recommended!

Resources:

Frog and Toad
2002, 2004 Frog and Toad Company LLC
Distributed by PS Classics LLC
Re: PS-416
81 Pondfield Road, #306, Bronxville, NY  10708

Lunch cooler for children's lunches

Sometimes my son uses a regular lunch bag, but sometimes I want to pack him something like yogurt or cheese that needs to stay cool.  Plus, he prefers mayonnaise on his turkey sandwich.  I got a Packit freezable personal cooler that has solved the problem of me worrying he'll get sick from his mayo, or milk going bad!  I keep it clean, and after being used I put in the freezer flat.  That way when I want to pack a lunch that needs to stay cool, it is ready!

Directions are so easy!

1.  Fold the cooler and freeze.
2.  Take it out of freezer and unfold it, pack lunch.
3.  Enjoy all day, keeps food cold up to 10 hours!


Resources:

PACKIT  FREEZABLE  FREEZABLE  PERSONAL COOLER
Item # PCS-FR-0034H
PackitCool.com

Pajamas for Children- Kicky Pants, onesies, bamboo

My son loves onesies, and he only currently has one pair, a size 4.  I got this pair at a store in Alameda called, .......  They don't carry older sizes so they gave me the website to order my own older sizes.  I love this PJ's as they are 100% bamboo and really silky soft!

Resources:

Kicky Pants Pajamas

Organic Pajamas for children- Under the Nile

I am very particular about my son's pajamas, I do not buy any with fire retardant or chemicals.  I have a few that I prefer.  I really like the Under the Nile organic pajamas.  I purchased my first pair at Whole Foods in Oakland,CA.  But they don't sell them anymore after around 24 months.  My son is five but is still wearing the size 4 because I've been desperately looking for a store that carries older sizes.

Resources:

Under The Nile Organic Cotton Pajamas

Halloween- Whole Foods Bakery, edible Haunted House Kits

My son has been asking that we decorate for Halloween.  I am going to Whole Foods later this week to get one of their edible Haunted House kits, it looks fun and new,  even for me!

Sierra Waldorf School, Sonora, CA- My favorite things about this school!

These are my favorite things about the Sierra Waldorf School in Sonora, CA:

*  The Waldorf School administrators that I've met have all previously been teachers and are knowledgable about the philosophy.  The Sierra School has amazing administrators and office support. They really "walk the walk."

*There is a beautiful organic garden that the students learn to tend to.

*There were some bats living in the eaves of the school buildings so they built a bat house, where they now peacefully live.

*They successfully do beekeeping

*The classrooms are clean, peaceful, organized and serene.

*They have a store in downtown Sonora where they sell toys, supplies, and do some crafts.  I haven't visited yet, since they open at 12:00.

*They have a great space with lots of room for the children to be children!  I can really appreciate this since I currently live in the city.

*I could say so much more, this school seems like a really warm, loving environment that involves the community in activities such as a not scary Halloween festival that has fun activities for the children and actually ends with a bonfire, sounds like an idyllic way to spend Halloween!

St. Paul's School, Oakland, CA- My favorite things about this school!

I visited St. Paul's School in Oakland, CA for their open house, this past Saturday.  I spent a few hours visiting the classes and I saw many aspects of the school I loved.  I've gone to several private schools and I'm going to start writing about what I've discovered that I liked about each one.

St Paul's- k-8 school in Oakland, CA

*I discovered on Saturday that St. Paul's is not a parochial school, in fact they study many different religions and learn about them.  I think this is fascinating and a charming quality to make children more tolerant and worldly.

*Each Friday, they go to the chapel, and the young children sit with their older buddies and sing, and do other things having to do with world religions and spirituality.  One mom I talked to said that was her children's favorite part of the week!  I can see that being a  favorite part of my son's day too!  They told me Saturday that I am welcome to bring my son any Friday to experience this firsthand.

*The staff is really warm and friendly!  I felt really comfortable, and it seemed that they really cared!  I haven't always felt this at a private school, as sometimes it feels more chilling and sterile.  I get a strong feeling at St. Paul's that they focus on socio-emotional needs of children and parents.

*There were lots of hands-on math manipulatives and games out in the classrooms, so I got a feeling that they don't just focus on drill and kill worksheets, but do lots of hands-on activities.  I need to go visit the school in session to discover more about this.

* The Kindergarden class had under 20 children and 2 teachers, how wonderful!

*I loved the Kindergarden class, it had a loft and lots of spaces within the space.  It was a fun place, and I imagine my son would love it!  I don't always like the spaces in schools.  I loved the kindergarden class.

*The children at St. Paul's do service learning.  Each year they do a different project.  One grade made sandwiches to be delivered to a senior center, another class visits seniors.  I love the way they teach the children about giving back, I see this as a way to prevent judgement and entitlement that I've seen some children exhibit.

*I've shared seven things, and I want to share 7 things I appreciated about each school I visit, but I could continue!  I highly recommend visiting this school to see if it fits your child's and your personality and preferences!

What is my son's favorite snack for school?

Since my son started elementary school in September, what to feed him for snack is now becoming a source of stress for me.  Why?  Well, starting school has a whole new set of challenges!  Where my son goes to school they have children bring both a snack bag and a lunch bag.  I need to bring something that can be packed easily, does not need to be eaten warm, does not go stale if not refrigerated, and a whole set of problems!  After working on this problem for almost two months I have a snack that I actually pack most days, since I KNOW that he will eat it and enjoy it!  I love variety and spontaneity in snacks, but it is too stressful now that he has started school.  I don't feel very creative at 7:30 AM in the morning!

My son LOVES the Late July organic mini cheddar cheese crackers.  On the package it claims it is "real organic white cheddar cheese between organic mini buttery tasting rich crackers."  I have tried to pack him plain crackers with a slice of cheddar cheese in it, but when I pick him up and the cheese and crackers are still there, I feel bad wasting that food since after a day at school in a bag, the cheese is no longer edible and doesn't look edible anymore either!  The box claims that these crackers are produced without synthetic pesticides and have no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.  I love reading the ingredients and being able to understand EACH one, no strange names!  I also give him a box of 365 organic organic 100% apple juice (no sugar added.)  I started the year giving him a thermos of fresh, refrigerated apple juice and after he lost three of them, and I started getting sick of wandering around the school and classroom looking for them, I switched to boxes, at least for this year.  I still haven't found any of those three thermoses, which still bothers me as they are really expensive.  I recycle the box, but I still feel bad about the waste.  I haven't found a better snack, yet, but I am always looking!  When I find one, I will blog about it!

Resources:

Late July Organic Mini Cheddar Cheese Crackers

Bite Size Sandwich Crackers

Distributed by:

Late July Snacks

3166 Main Street

Barnstable, MA  02630

www.latejuly.com

Looking Glass Photo & Camera Grand Opening Event- October 20, 2013- Berkeley, CA

The Looking Glass Photo & Camera store is my favorite in the area!  They have recently moved from Telegraph Avenue to Ashby Avenue, and area having a grand opening event tomorrow, October 20th.
They will have the following activities:

*Free workshops
*Free seminars
*RAFFLE prizes
*tech demos
*huge savings
*expert help
*There will be reps from top brands:
-Canon
-Fujifilm
-Nikon
-Sony
-Tamron
-GoPro
-Olympus
-Lowepro
-Lensbaby

Resources:

Looking Glass Photo and Camera
1045 Ashby Avenue
Berkeley, CA
(510) 548-6888
lookingglassphoto.com

Why do Waldorf School's incorporate handwork in their curriculum?

I recently read a blog discussing why Waldorf School's emphasize handwork in their curriculum.  I do think there is a hand-brain connection in children, they need to experience learning through touch, not just through dittoes.

Resources:

http://handworkbarn.blogspot.com

4th East Bay Mini Maker Faire, Park Day School, Oakland,CA

Last year I took my son to the East Bay Mini Maker Faire at Park Day School in Oakland,CA.  I was honestly blown away at the beauty of this private school campus.  My son loved this faire, they had all kinds of mini maker activities, including a chicken coop, bee hives, cheese making, and all kinds of other activities for children and their parents.  The Faire is put on by the Studio One Arts Center and the Park Day School.

Resources:

East Bay Mini Maker Faire
Park Day School
360 42nd Street,
Oakland, CA
Temescal District
(510) 653-0317
www.parkdayschool.org

Crowden School- Community Music Day- is this Sunday, October 20th- Berkeley, CA

This Sunday, October 20th, is Community Music Day!  Community Music Day attracts over 1,500 students each year!  It is an amazing day of free music and activities!  It is a free musical carnival for the entire family.  They will have all kinds of activities, such as the following:

*Instrument petting zoo-  Explore, touch, and learn to make sounds on all the different instruments in a symphony orchestra!  Features special mini string instruments for tiny hands and fingers.

*Very first concerts-  The San Francisco Chamber Orchestra performs short and engaging programs with the musical theme, "Small Instruments, Tall Instruments."  10:40 AM, 11:20 AM, and 12:00PM.

*Instrument Making

*Face Painting

*Musical performances by kids, for kids

*Crowden School admissions information.  Crowden School is for children, 4th through 8th grades, though they also offer music classes, such as suzuki strings, music together, singing, etc.

*BBQ & baked goods, "Chill" room, prizes, and more!


Resources:

Crowden Music Center
1475 Rose Street
Berkeley, CA  94702
(510) 559-6910
www.crowden.org

Autism- Resources For Help

A few resources and help for families of children with autism:

Dr. Ron Steingard, The Child Mind Center advises, "It's important to advocate for our child and turn to your peers for advice and support."

Autism Speaks (autismspeaks.org)

Parents Helping Parents (php.com)

Harvest Fair is this Saturday, October 12, 2013 at East Bay Waldorf in El Sobrante, CA

My son did mommy and me "Sweet Pea" classes at East Bay Waldorf starting when he was 18 months, the classes were once a week and included a homemade snack where we all sat around the table having snack, and the children learned rhymes such as "napkin on your napkin," which we still bring up with smiles on our faces!  The East Bay Waldorf has great festivals, and the Harvest Festival is no exception.  I've never been to a Waldorf festival I didn't like, and isn't it great to go to a festival both the parent and child enjoy!  The festival starts at 11AM.  There will be lots of good, healthy food, vendor items for sale, music, dance, activities, and entertainment.  The Waldorf festivals are truly magical for both parents and their children!

Resources:

East Bay Waldorf
3800 Clark Road
El Sobrante, CA
http://www.eastbaywaldorf..org

Alphabet Learning and Reinforcement- Touch and Learn Alphabet Fish

Imaginarium Learning has a Touch & Learn Alphabet Fish with 29 interactive Touch Points.  It is great for the car!  It is kind of loud for a restaurant or public space.  This is a good tool for alphabet and alphabet sound introduction as well as review.  The Alphabet fish has the following features:

*2 play modes,
-discovery
-game

*26 touch points teaching the alphabet

*3 hidden touch points with fun sound effects and songs

*Lightweight and portable design

Resources:

Imaginarium Learning Touch & Learn Alphabet Fish
www.imaginarium.com
www.toysrus.ca
5F60E25

Ages 2+ (My son is five and it will be fun for awhile, just reviewing letters and sounds after a long summer.  The voice says, "Great job,"  and "You are so smart," when he gets it right!  I know he loves that!)

Nutrition-Kids Superfood, chocolate flavor for milk

My son likes Kidz Superfood in his milk.  It tastes like chocolate milk, but not as sweet.  It is made with organic wheat grass and other veggies.  It is gluten free and vegan.  I started out by mixing his milk with half of the kids superfood and half regular chocolate milk mix, then I gradually just put the kids superfood.  As he got used to the flavor, he actually preferred it to regular chocolate mix.

Resources:

Amazing Grass
Kidz Superfood
Outrageous Chocolate Flavor
gluten free and vegan
60 servings
amazinggrass.com
P.O. Box 475576
San Francisco, CA  94147

For smoothie recipes, look at amazing grass.com/recipes

Recipe- Easiest pasta with sauce and meatballs!

When we have a really busy day of school, and then other classes on top of that, we don't even get home until dinner time.  I would rather make my own meatballs and spaghetti sauce, but when that is not possible, my son really loves a simple pasta with sauce and meatballs using particular ready-made varieties.  I discovered Aidalls Italian style meatballs with mozzarella cheese about a week ago at the Village Market in Oakland, CA.  I like the Organicville Organic Pasta Sauce, we like the Tomato Basil variety.  Or, sometimes we have the 365 organic when it is on sale at Whole Foods, we like the Tomato Basil and the Classic varieties.  Sometimes I make my own spaghetti sauce using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and a tomato paste such as Bionatura Organic tomato paste.   I like this kind as there is no salt added.  Then, for a pasta, I discovered a small pasta shop right in Jack London Square called Edison Grainery.   Since I am gluten free, I like the Organic Quinoa pasta as then I can eat it too!

Resources:

All Natural Chicken Meatballs, Gluten Free, No Nitrates, and No Hormones
Aidells Italian Style with Mozzarella Cheese
www.aidells.com
(Follow directions on package for heating, really easy!)

Edison Grainery Organic Quinoa Elbows (gluten free)
By Edison Grainery
Emeryville, CA
EDISONGRAINERY.COM

Organicville
Organic Pasta Sauce
Tomato Basil
Gluten Free
Sky Valley Foods
878 Firetower Road
Yanceyville, NC  27379
www.organicvillefoods.com
(24 oz has 420mg of salt, which is 18% of the sauce.)


365 Organic Pasta Sauce
Tomato Basil or Classic
Distributed by Whole Foods Market
Austin, TX  78703
(25oz has 500mg of salt, which is 21% of the sauce)

Bionatura
Organic Tomato Paste
NO SALT ADDED
Distributed by:
Euro-USA Trading Co. Inc.
North Franklin, CT  06254
(Refrigerate after opening.  Use within 10 days.)

Amy's Organic pasta sauce
Family Marinara
Amy's Kitchen Inc.
P.O. Box 449
Petaluma, CA
Amy's.com

kitchen toy-Thomas the train, Island of Sodor Felt Playmat, 2 + years

I finally got my son the Island of Sodor Felt Playmat so he can play train in the kitchen while I cook.  It is a really durable felt surface and is 30"x 25x.  Our kitchen is tile and is really cold so it is nice for William to even use to hang out on!

Resources:

Thomas & Trains
Wooden Railway
Island of Sodor Felt Playmat
2 + years
Fisher Price
www.thomasandfriends.com
fisher-price.com/thomasandfriends
I.D. Y4471-0910G2

Cameras- the easiest for children to use is the Fujifilm instamatic

I used to love the Polaroids as they were so easy to use, especially in a classroom.  I used them for writing books, posters, and all sorts of things.  They instantly create a party as children love to see the picture instantly, and then take it home.  Also, children love to take pictures with an instamatic.
I think they are a great tool for educators.  I've even used them in higher education classes for getting to know each other activities as well as other assignments.  Now, I use the Fujifilm Instant Camera, I have really enjoyed it!  Be careful, as it can break if not handled correctly.  I got my camera at Looking Glass
Photography in Berkeley, CA.

Resources:

Fujifilm Instant Camera, insta 210, includes 45 cm close up lens.
wide picture format
Fujifilm Corporation
26-30 Nishiazabu 2-Chome, Minato-KU
Tokyo, 106-8620 Japan

Snacks for children- Late July Organic Mini Cheddar Cheese filled crackers

My son's favorite snack this week is Late July organic cheddar cheese filled crackers.  He loves them!  In September I had purchased the Annie's Organic snack mix, and he didn't like that as much.  Though I thought the snack mix had more of an adult snack, tasty with a soda or beer.   I had also tried the pizza flavored snack mix and he didn't like that either, I think that has an older flavor also.

Resources:

Late July
organic Cheddar Cheese cheddar cheese filled crackers
3166 Main Street
Barnstable, MA  02630
www.latejuly.com

Annie's Organic Snack Mix
(has an older flavor, my son didn't like it as much.)
1610 5th Street
Berkeley, CA  94710

Escuela Bilingue International School, Berkeley, CA

EBI is an independent bilingual school for pre-kindergarten through seventh grades.  About one third of EBI's students arrive to the school speaking at least some Spanish.  The founders of the school, which opened in September 2006, were parents who specifically wanted a Spanish immersion environment, which at that time was difficult to find past fifth grade in Northern California.

EBI's founders envisioned bilingual education as a key component of an educational philosophy to nurture global citizens, installing the ability to recognize and respect differences, and to consider problems from various perspectives.  Not only are children working in English and Spanish by third grade, but at that time the students start to study Mandarin four days a week.

As of the 2010 census, 12.8 percent of the U.S. population - 37 million people over age 5- spoke Spanish at home.  Worldwide, Mandarin is the most spoken language, approaching 900 million speakers, with English and Spanish runner ups, according to Ethnologue, an online language research site.

EBI bases its curriculum on the International Baccalaureate (known as IB), a Geneva-based foundation created to develop "the intellectual, personal, and emotional and social skills to live, learn, and work in a rapidly globalizing world." The BI was founded in 1968 and already works with more than 3,000 schools in over 146 countries.  IB focuses on inquiry-based learning.  There is a popular and well respected IB program at Berkeley High School.  Berkeley High School has a four-year IB diploma program, called Berkeley International High school.  Many colleges accept IB high school classes interchangeably with AP classes for college credit.

My son has native accent in Spanish since he learned so young, why? Does this also come later in High School?

I really wanted my son to learn a second language in preschool.  I decide on Spanish since my husband and I both took classes in school and have some knowledge of words.  We decided on an immersion preschool for our son, and he went two or three days a week.  At first it was hard for him as his teachers spoke only in Spanish, only using English rarely.  Though it was difficult to watch, I knew from my own experience as a teacher, that he would learn quickest and sound more like a native, from an immersion model.  My son now has a natural accent when speaking Spanish, though he still isn't truly fluent.  It takes people by surprise!   I looked up accents on wikipedia and this is what was written:

"The most important factor in predicting the degree to which the accent will be noticeable (or strong) is the age at which the non-native language was learned.  The critical period theory states that if learning takes place after the critical period (usually considered around puberty) for acquiring native-like pronunciation, and individual is unlikely to acquire a native like accent.  This theory, however, is quite controversial among researchers."

How do I get my son to eat breakfast before elementary school?

This morning was a nightmare.  My son started kindergarden this September and I am having a hard time getting him to eat 3 meals a day plus snack at school.  I have to prepare 3 meals before 8:00AM and it is really hard!  The students bring a lunch in a lunch box but there is also a tub to put recess snacks in, which by the time I pack a drink and snack, is almost like another meal!  This morning I actually fed my son organic cheese leftover pizza and an apple juice for breakfast.  He enjoyed half of it, then put it down and the dog ate it, and dogs aren't even supposed to have flour!  Last year I usually made scrambled eggs with a little cheese, the secret to my son liking it is cooking it really slow!  The following are some other breakfast ideas that work for my son, and I am looking for some new ideas!

Breakfasts my five year son likes:

scrambled eggs with cow or goat milk, scrambled slow

Boiled eggs (great as I can make them ahead, but he doesn't like the yolks so I feed those to the dog.)

poached egg

string cheese

bagel with cream cheese and lox

crackers with peanut butter

chocolate chip or regular pancakes

egg pizza (check out Oliveto Cafe in Rockridge Cafe in the morning for this delicacy, I haven't learned how to make it yet!)

Cheese pizza  (when desperate, not best choice! Homemade organic is preferred.)

W cheese roll (See previous blog for directions, we make these together.)

chicken apple sausage

croissants

morning buns (very sweet on a school day)

toast with peanut butter or chocolate hazelnut butter

strawberry smoothie with vanilla yogurt (If at jamba juice, sometimes I'll have them add a banana as it doesn't really change the taste.)

apple juice/ apple slices without peel




What he doesn't like, yet...I'll keep trying:

oatmeal with soy milk, dairy, or goat milk

healthy cold cereal, but still trying variations

granola

bacon

muffins/scones

banana

blueberry pancakes (this makes me really sad as my dad used to always make us blueberry pancakes, but my son really doesn't like them.)

banana pancakes with walnuts  (My son doesn't like the banana or walnuts in anything.  He will tolerate a banana in a smoothie if I don't announce it.)

I have to admit that I don't care for getting three snacks/meals ready before 8:00AM in the morning.  I am working on getting better at this.  My favorite meals are the "slow food" variety where we can make the meal together watching it simmer!  I love making homemade pizza with my son, or W cheese rolls, or slowly cooked scrambled eggs with fresh croissants I've made or picked up at the bakery early in the morning.  I miss those days, when he played beside me while I made a nutritious breakfast!

Book Recommendation: My Name is Gabriela/ Me Llamo is Gabriela by Monica Brown

Ashay By the Bay, at the Rockridge Out and About Festival, picked out My Name is Gabriela for a bilingual read aloud for my five year old son.  I love the illustrations and it was a fun and interesting mommy read too.  The story is about the life of author, Gabriela Mistral, who was the first Latin American writer to receive  a Nobel Prize for Literature.  Gabriela Mistral was born in 1889 in Vicuna, a small town in Northern Chile in South America.  She published over thirty collections of poetry in her lifetime.

I read both of these books at bedtime and he enjoyed them both.  I work on reading at least one or two bilingual spanish books each night for at least five minutes, then I let him pick a few choices.

Resources:

My Name is Gabriela/ Me Llamo is Gabriela
by Monica Brown
Illustrated by John Parra
2006 International Latino Book Award Winner
Luna Rising Publishing
P.O. Box 1389
Flagstaff, Arizona  86002-1389
ISBN 13: 978-0-87358-859-1

Ashay By The Bay
African American and Multi-Cultural Books and Educational Services
www.AshayByTheBay.com
Phone:  510-520-2742
FAX:  707-557-3585
EMAIL:  ashaybythebay@gmail.com
Contact:  Deborah Day
Headquarters:  Vallejo, CA

Book Recommendation: Hairs and Pelitos by Sandra Cisneros

We were at the Rockridge Street festival in the Rockridge district of Oakland, California today and I stopped at a table set up by the book business Ashay By The Bay.  The company specializes in African and multi-cultural children's books and educational services.  The website is also really helpful as it gives book suggestions by age and grade level.  I was looking for a few bilingual to read my son at night at bedtime, the owner recommended Hairs and Pelitos by Sandra Cisneros.  This jewel-like vignette, shows through simple, intimate portraits, the diversity among us.  It is for ages five to eight, and talks about differences in hair color and quality, even in one family.  My son loved it, and they are talking about differences color and hair even in kindergarten.  Sandra Cisneros also wrote The House on Mango Street which is for older children, grades 6-8


Resources:

Hairs and Pelitos
by Sandra Cisneros
Dragonfly Books, New York
ages 5-8


The House On Mango Street
by Sandra Cisneros
Knopf Doubleday Publishing
grades 6-8
ISBN- 13: 9780679734772

Ashay By The Bay
African American and Multi-cultural books and educational services
www.AshayByTheBay.com
Phone:  510-520-2742
FAX:  707-557-3585
EMAIL:  ashaybythebay@gmail.com
Contact:  Deborah Day
Headquarters:  Vallejo, CA

Fully Belly Farm in Capay Valley has family campout tonight and activities tomorrow.

Full Belly Farm in Yolo County, CA is having a campout tonight.  The price is $25.00 per car and no reservations are required, and you do not have to have a CSA membership to camp over.   This year is the 26th annual celebration, and the main festivities are  today from 11AM to 11PM.  Last year my son and I drove to Guinda for the Saturday celebration, but did not camp.  They had food, music, and other entertainment.  They also had tractor tours of the property which were really interesting!  This year we had another engagement so couldn't go, but I look back fondly at last year's trip there.  Next year I want to camp there as it was a long trip there and back.

Check out a video of full belly camp on tube, under the title of Full Belly Camp Documentary by Andrew Pinkham.

Full Belly Farm is a certified organic farm located in the beautiful Capay Valley of Northern California.  Their CSAF program offers boxes of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, and offers seasonal outings like these, some for members of the CSA only and others for the general public.

Resources:

Full Belly Farm
fullbellyfarm.com

Hoes Down Harvest Festival
26th Annual Celebration
http://www.hoesdown.org/
October 5th and 6th
Yolo County
Saturday, 11AM to 11PM
Saturday Night camping, $25.00
Sunday- Specialized hands-on seminars in a variety of subjects, register at Ecofarm booth.

Fully Belly Farm
16090 Road 43
Guinda, CA
95637
(530) 796-2214

From www.fullbellyfarm.com:

From www.hoesdown.org:

Is this the right school for my child?

I know that many of my friends whose child just entered K are thinking, "Is this the right school for my child?"  Or, they may thinking, "Do I want to be around these people for the next several years?"  Preschool and elementary school are such different worlds, for the child as well as the parent.  I will  be writing a series of blog posts looking at what parents should be looking for.  How happy should the child be?  How happy should the parent be?  Is it normal to feel disconnected and "not part of" the school setting in the the fall?  What would a perfect experience in K feel like for the parent and the child?  I do not have the answers to these questions myself.  Also, the violence in Connecticut last year, many parents do not feel safe anymore dropping off their child.  This K class of parents are the first class of children to worry when they drop off their child, whether they will never see their child again.  As an educator myself, I have never seen parents have so much fear about security and safety, even in neighborhoods where parents have traditionally not had to worry.  It is so sad for parents to have to worry about dropping off their children to school, it breaks my heart!

Best Afterschool Snacks for my son in Kindergarden

My son started elementary school in September and he is so tired and hungry when he gets out of school.  I've learned to pack a snack for when I pick him up.  The best snacks, I've found, for lifting his mood are string cheese, cold milk, a chocolate chip cookie made from organic flour, peanut or other nut butter and crackers, fresh fruit such as an apple or other dried  fruit  such as Annie's Orchard, Strawberry Fruit Bites, which has one serving of fruit inside, or hummus and veggies.   After a few of these snacks, and  I feel I have my son back!

Resources:

365 Organic String Cheese
Vegetarian
Distributed by Whole Foods Market
Austin, TX  78703

Organic Orchard
Strawberry Fruit Bites
Annie's Homegrown
1610 Fifth Street
Berkeley, CA  94710

Bridge School Benefit Concert is this Weekend!

Yummy WC (white cheesy) crescent rolls- delicious

My son and I made the most delicious cheesy crescent rolls tonight by using Immaculate Crescent Rolls, and placing cheese and  minced garlic  inside the triangles, and rolling them up!   We then baked them in a 350 degrees oven for 12-14 minute and they came out warm and delicious!

Update on October 1st-  There was one extra roll last night so I thought I would pack it for lunch today, but he ended up wanting it as a late night snack.  We are going to make more tonight!

Resources:

Immaculate Honestly Delicious Crescent Rolls  (I picked these up at Whole Foods)
Need to keep dough refrigerated
(No bleached flour, No artificial preservatives, and no hydrogenated oil)
immaculatebaking.com
9010 Plymouth Avenue North
Golden Valley, MN  55427
1-800-243-6419

Portuguese Language Classes for adults and children, Oakland, CA

Portuguese Language classes are now being offered on Piedmont Avenue in Oakland, CA on Mondays starting October 7, 2013.  The focus will be on Brazilian music, dance, poetry, and legends.  My son learned a little of Portuguese when he was three years old and started taking Capiero classes and the teacher taught some Portuguese as part of the lesson.

This class will be offered at Capoeira Mandinga on Piedmont Avenue in Oakland, CA.  I haven't been to this studio, but am excited to try out this class with my son!

Resources:

Portuguese Language Classes
Adults and children Mondays
Classes begin from 6:30 to 7:30 PM on October 7th
The focus will be on Brazilian music, dance, poetry, and legends
(If interested, contact Georgia Esteves at georgiaesteves@gmail.com or call (510) 338-2256.)
Teacher:  Georgia Esteves Young, from Rio de Janeiro
Location:  Capoeira Mandinga, 4137 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland, CA
                 www.capoeiramandinga.org

Review of New York Times article , "A.D.H.D. Seen in 11% of U.S. Children as Diagnoses Rise."

Through the years, in my teaching profession, I have seen the diagnoses of A.D.H.D.  and A.D.D.H.D. rise.   I am concerned since A.D.H.D., as mentioned in a New York Times article on March 31, 2013, has no definitive test and is determined only by speaking extensively with patients, parents, and teachers, and ruling out other possible causes.  Teachers are given surveys to fill out to help diagnose. This process of ruling out other possible causes can be subjective and is time consuming,  and is sometimes even skipped under "time constraint" and pressure from parents.

I was surprised to find out that fifteen percent of school age boys have received A.D. H.D. diagnoses, the rate for girls was 7%.

Most alarming was the rate of diagnoses among those of high school age, those from ages 14 to 17, these rates were particularly high, 10% for girls and 19% for boys.  According to the New York Times article, "About one in ten high school boys are currently taking A.D.H.D. medication."

Resources:

The New York Times
March 31, 2013
"A.D.H.D. Seen in 11% of U.S. Children as Diagnoses Rise."
By Alan Schwarz