Every Day Matters

Fun by the Sacramento River

2007-07-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

Look! Out on the Sacramento River between Discovery Park and the I Street Bridge! It's a ship; it's a dragonfly; it's a public art display; it's a destination by foot, bike, skates, or car along the riverfront; it's a fun place for kids to play in a fountain; it's a giant crazy straw supplying Sacramento's drinking water; it's -- all of these things.

I first saw the rendering for this magnificent structure in an issue of Metropolis magazine several years ago and had to rub my eyes when I read that it was going to be built in Sacramento.

It was completed in 2004. This lovely modern glass, metal, and concrete structure was designed by the Lionakis Beaumont Design Group. It's a great place to visit for a number of reasons:

- A place to enjoy art: this begins as you ascend from the parking lot, continues on the walkway and is incorporated throughout the building.
- A place to be educated about the river: kiosks explain everything about the facility, the river, and water treatment.
- A place to play: a wonderful in-ground fountain spurts arcs of water on an irregular, intermittent basis. Great fun for kids on a hot day!
- An unusual vantage point to observe the river and our city.

Sometimes the water fountain isn't operating, but you can easily tell if it isn't by looking down from I-5. Take the Richards Boulevard exit and head towards the river. It's a great spontaneous thing to do with the kids. Keep a change of clothes, towels and sunscreen in the car and you're good to go anytime. Regular hours are 9 AM to 3 PM; longer hours Spring/Summer.

New Podcast - Kovar's Satori Academy

2007-07-16T14:32:00.000-07:00

Click here (or check out the podcast section) to listen to our new podcast with Dave Kovar, the founder of Kovar's Satori Academy. If you live in the Sacramento area, and have a young child, it is hard to miss Kovar's - they operate a well respected martial arts program with locations throughout the area. More information can be found at www.Kovars.com.

Enjoy the program!

A Tantrum at 30,000 Feet

2007-06-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

A 4 year old throwing a tantrum over apple juice caused a pilot to make an emergency landing. Ridiculous, but true. Read all about it here.

Maybe the parent, pilot and crew should listen to our podcast with Dr. Robert McKenzie about setting limits for children?

Fun at the Crocker Art Museum

2007-06-26T15:20:00.001-07:00

When I announce to my toddlers we're going to the Crocker, they yell "Yay!" and "Art! Art! Art!" (While doing a seal imitation, including clapping flappers. Goofballs.)

My kids have been coming here since they were infants. I love how Crocker has made an effort to make kids feel at home. Before every visit I go over the ground rules: Do not touch other people's art unless they specifically say you can; use your inside voice; no running, etc.

Time after time, we have enjoyed Crocker's Youth & Family programs. http://www.crockerartmus... The majority of our time has been spent downstairs where they have worked with all kinds of art media and attended puppet shows.

Another family favorite is the art-o-mat near the stairwell: a refurbished cigarette vending machine stocked with small art from all over the country for $5. http://www.artomat.org/ You never quite know what you're going to get.

Children 6 and under get free admission. (Thanks to Marisa L. for the reminder regarding free admission on Sundays between 10 AM and 1 PM!) Free passes are also occasionally available and there are Free Museum Days annually.

When my kids were babies, I carried them throughout the museum and had them identify animals, shapes, and colors. Start your kids' love affair with art early. This is a terrific place to begin.

Fairytale Town

2007-06-13T14:00:00.001-07:00

A truly toddler-friendly venue. Built in 1959 yet well-maintained with continued improvements. If you had to pick just one place to go with the five-and-under crowd, this is a good choice. It has all the elements of a park, a zoo, a botanical garden, and a playground. Often there are special activities such as art, face painting, puppet shows and/or special events.

Make sure you check hours of operation before you head out; they keep different hours depending on the season. Winter hours are 10 AM to 4 PM Thursday through Sunday. Conveniently open on Monday holidays too. Longer hours March through October: open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM. Closed during inclement weather -- if it's overcast outside you may want to call first to make sure they are going to be open. If you come early in the morning, the equipment may still be wet, so you may want to bring a small towel.

Fairytale Town is home to lots of friendly farm animals, some of them pygmy/miniature. Lots of physical activities here; multiple slides, figurative storybook characters to climb on/in/around. Fun places to use your imagination and pretend. Nice little gardens (including one that features plants with names beginning from A to Z).

Many features, such as the drinking fountains and the potties at the Gingerbread House are scaled-down for toddlers. Unfortunately, you just don't see that in many places, even ones that are supposed to be kid-friendly.

Eat somewhere else; snack bar food here is atrocious. If you live nearby, get a membership and you'll save $. If you're just passing through, admission as of this writing is $4.25 on weekends and $3.75 on weekdays per person. Kids 2 and under are free.

Another plus to Fairytale Town is that it is located in William Land Park and close to other amenities such as the Zoo, Funderland, the pony rides, the ponds, the rock garden, the wading pool and fenced in playground, picnic areas, baseball, softball and soccer areas, and an almost 2 mile jogging path.

A fun and easy place to have a birthday party. Recommend the area by Sherwood Forest if it's a nice day -- play equipment close by.

Please note: even though this is located in a nice neighborhood, don't be foolish. Hide your valuables and lock your car. We recently visited and heard the sound of a window smashing. A quick-thinking man with a stacked SLR camera jumped up on some play equipment and got a picture of someone breaking into an SUV with a hammer on the other side of the fence. Don't know who ultimately got the last laugh.

For kids only: they won't let you in if you aren't accompanied by one. As a parent, I appreciate that.

Cooking With Kids Is Fun!

2007-06-05T11:51:00.001-07:00

Although this is unrelated to the Sacramento area, I found a great website about cooking with children that I know many of you would enjoy. The site is chock full of recipes that children can do themselves, and it has demonstration videos to boot! This is a great way to teach your child the basics of cooking - and a fun activity to do over the summer break.

Check it out at www.spatullata.com

WPA Rock Garden

2007-05-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

For some reason, many people are unaware of this rock garden's existence. Don't miss this beautiful little gem in William Land Park.

It is a one-acre botanical garden consisting of winding, sloping paths with decomposed granite and small steps. It is a wonderful place to walk with infants in slings or with young children, who will find great delight in the smallest of details. It can also be a really fun place for older kids to play hide 'n' seek, as long as they stay in the garden. The paths are not level and the planters have various rocks jutting out, so be sure your little ones are sure-footed or hold hands.

The WPA (stands for Works Progress Administration) Rock Garden was built in 1940. You can see evidence of a (now dry) little lake and meandering "creeks." Plant species here are abundant: deciduous and evergreen trees, palms, perennials, succulents, grasses, reeds, small bamboos, shrubs, ground covers, bulbs, and rhizomes. The design of the garden invokes a certain intimacy; you will feel surrounded by your own personal paradise. The winding paths provide a calm, meditative aspect that is refreshing and relaxing.

In the middle of the garden, there is a (recently built) small arbor with stone benches. It has a plaque that reads in part: "In memory of Norma Cleavenger, a gardener's gardener and a fierce liberal." A nice place to stop and have a little lunch or snack with the kids.

One morning, I shared the paths with a few waddling ducks and some beautiful little birds. On our most recent visit, we shared the garden with bees and hummingbirds. When my kids are a little older, I will begin teaching them the names of the plants -- just like my grandma taught me in our backyard.

If you are interested in gardening and what grows here in Sacramento, you should visit the WPA Rock Garden; it is living testimony to what thrives in our climate zone. Much credit for its beauty goes to Daisy Mah, who came along in 1988 and revived it to its current splendor. She and a handful of volunteers have created and maintained a beautiful landscape here. Way to go, Daisy! You Rock (Garden)!

New Podcast - All About Babies

2007-05-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

Our newest podcast is now available to listen to or download! For this show, we interviewed Dr. Anjali Sharma, an OB-GYN with Mercy Healthcare in Sacramento. If you are preganant, or thinking about having a baby in the future, it is well worth a listen. You can find this show, and other podcasts, by clicking here (or at the "podcast" link in the top of the page).

Lost Slough Wetlands

2007-05-16T09:21:00.000-07:00

This is a perfect place to bring toddlers and young children for a nature walk. The Lost Slough Wetlands Walk is completely accessible for strollers and wheelchair users. The Preserve is only 25 miles south of Sacramento.

Our visit was in the late afternoon on a very temperate, slightly breezy mid-May day. We began at the Visitor's Center. Our toddlers explored the foot imprints of various birds and mammals and inspected various nests, feathers, bones, shells, and skins in a hands-on exhibit.

We proceeded on the one-mile loop Lost Slough Wetlands Walk that begins and ends at the Visitor Center. Immediately our kids were engrossed in finding ladybugs and butterflies as we walked along the tastefully designed and well-kept paths and bridges. The first bridge had lovely rubbing plates of various animals and plants. We identified flora and fauna along the way, and were fortunate to see a busy beaver in the wetlands on the 1/2 mile wooden boardwalk off of the Wetlands Walk. Other sightings today included a couple of western fence lizards, herons, ducks, and turkey vultures. Here are some pix to get a better idea of the path and views http://share.shutterfly....

There were several well-placed benches to stop and take in the sights, as well as some shady patches. However, be advised on a warmer day to bring plenty of water and hats/sunscreen. All of the paths were clear today though we have heard some of the paths become submerged or muddy after heavy rains.

If you don't mind a dirt path, take the Consumnes River Walk, a 3 mile loop beginning and ending at the Visitor Center. You may also bring your canoe or kayak and access the river from a designated launch site.

At the end of the Wetlands Walk, our toddlers got tired and wanted us to carry them. Overall, it seemed like just the right distance and appeal to keep them interested for an hour and a half at a leisurely pace. What a convenient and wonderful place to get kids excited about nature!

Our New Podcast is Up!

2007-04-18T17:19:00.000-07:00

Click here (or at the "podcast" link above) to listen to or download our newest podcast, which is an interview with Dr Robert MacKenzie, the author of Setting Limits.

Good stuff! We hope you enjoy it. As always, feel free to drop us a line.

Bribing Our Children

2007-04-17T16:28:00.000-07:00

According to a recent article by the Associated Press, more parents are bribing their children than ever before. Parents are literally paying their children to be "good" - whether it is behavior at home, good grades or even brushing one's teeth.

In my opinion, bribery isn't the issue. I think that it is reasonable to reward a child for a large accomplishment. But for everyday things, like being polite, or listening to the babysitter? Please.

The issue is that many parents don't want to be their child's parent; they want to be their child's friend. They want their child to like them, and find it hard to set a firm limit and follow through with an action step. Being a parent isn't always fun - however, the time that you invest setting firm and clear limits when your child is young will pay dividends when he or she is older. This doesn't mean that your child won't test you - he or she will. However, you won't have to resort to bribery to get your child to be a productive, polite and contributing member of our society... and isn't that what parenting is all about?

Great Family Event This Saturday

2007-04-11T10:33:00.000-07:00

My family and I have been going to Picnic Day for as long as I can remember. The annual event is basically a huge open house for UC Davis - with too many family activities to list. If you have free time this Saturday, I would HIGHLY recommend attending!

More information, including a schedule of activities can be found here.

Filed Under "O" for Obvious

2007-04-10T17:19:00.000-07:00

I have received a few e-mails about the recent study about the effects of childcare on the growth and development of children. The study, funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, found that children who spend their earliest years in childcare tend to have greater behavioral problems when they are older.

For those of us who work with children, this is a no-brainer.

Two points:

1) Children want and need to be with their parents. This may not be a reality for some families. However, the more time you spend with your child, the better off he or she will be.

2) There is a HUGE difference in the quality of childcare that is available. There are many fantastic Montessori , Waldorf, Reggio-Emilia and play based programs that will have tremendous benefits for your child. Unfortunately, there too many horrible options: corporate child care centers, low quality in home and the like. Most of the poor quality programs tend to pay employees very little, which leads to an uneducated, inexperienced teaching staff with a high rate of turnover. Exposing your child to this type of environment is, in my opinion, damaging.

An early childhood program is nothing but people - but do your homework before making your decision, to ensure that your child will be a member of a stable, positive and nurturing preschool community.

Mercer Caverns; Murphys, California

2007-04-05T12:33:00.000-07:00

Our family takes a yearly spring trip down the southern Hwy. 49 route, and while we have some spots we love to drop in on every year, we try to discover something new each time, as well.

This year, our son was finally brave enough to check out one of the many caverns in the area, Mercer Caverns. Just outside of the sweet little town of Murphy's, you can travel 16 stories down inside the earth, and also pan for gemstones!

There are numerous caverns and caves in the Southern Gold Country, all within two hours of Sacramento. Each has it's own gorgeous surroundings and colorful history. Look into Mercer Caverns and California Cavern. The California Cavern site also has links to three other caverns in the area: Moaning Cavern, Black Chasm and Boyden Cavern.

The cavern was absolutely stunning, and my son forgot his fears in the face of so much underground wonder. He was also quite pleased with the sack of gemstones he successfully mined in the outdoor mining station. They were planted, of course, but that didn't seem to take away from his excitement and enthusiasm.

For more information on things to do along historic Highway 49, go here.

For Extreme Parents with Extreme Children...

2007-04-02T17:13:00.000-07:00

The Capn' Danger Baby Chute. Obviously, tongue and cheek. Love the pic! More information can be found here. Only $19.95!

The Joyful Child

2007-03-30T11:24:00.000-07:00

The Micheal Olaf Company publishes a wonderful catalogue entitled "The Joyful Child". What I love about the publication is that they couple parent education along with the products that they offer for sale. It is refreshing to find a company that aims to have their customers understand the theory behind the products that they buy.

In fact, the parent education sections are so well written that I tend to read them all - even the ones about infant and toddlers (I don't have an infant!)

More information, along with downloadable .pdf files of the parent education essays can be found at www.MichealOlaf.net.

Cutest. Thing. Ever.

2007-03-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

Laughter is contagious... especially when it comes from an infant!

Hidden Falls Regional Park

2007-03-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I discovered Hidden Falls Regional Park, which is tucked away on the outskirts of Auburn. My son and I collected our young cousins that live in the area for an afternoon of hiking and exploring. The weather couldn't have been better and we all had a wonderful time.

The park features seven miles of trails which are suitable for hiking, running, biking or horseback riding. There are also two creeks, groves of blue oak woodlands and a year round waterfall. We were going to do a full loop of the park, from the "Seven Pools" to the waterfalls, but ran short on daylight, and after about two hours, had only covered half of the park. We trekked a combination of the Poppy and Blue Oak Loops, and the Seven Pools Vista Trail. Not knowing what to expect, we were quite pleasantly surprised to come out of the woods onto the edge of a ridge looking down into a valley at the Seven Pools. The trails we chose were rated 'Moderate' to 'Difficult', and my companions, aged 7 to 11, made it through the hike fairly easily with a few rest stops. We plan to go back soon to discover the 'Pond Turtle Trail', which was recommended by a local we met on the trail for it's cool pools to dip your feet in, and the falls, of course.

Spring is a perfect time to visit - it isn't too hot and you don't have to worry about mosquitoes! This could be a great place for a family hike, picnic or outing. More information about Hidden Falls Regional Park can be found here.

Our First Podcast is Up!

2007-03-14T09:34:00.000-07:00

Our first podcast has been posted! You can find it here, or simply by clicking on the "podcast" link on the menu bar.

Our first show is with Dr. Linda Acredolo, the founder of Baby Signs. Baby Signs is akin to sign language and it provides a method of communication for infants and toddlers who are not yet verbal. More information about Baby Signs can be found at www.babysigns.com.

We hope that you enjoy the program!

Ski, Pam & Matt

Who We Are & Why We Are Here

2007-03-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

Hi. My name is Ski (say sky), and this is my blog.

Well, I should say that this is our blog. I created this website/blog/podcast with my co-workers, Matt and Pam. We all work with children and we wondered why there wasn't a good local website with information for Sacramento parents. So, instead of complaining about it, we created it!

This site has two main components: a blog and a podcast. For those of you who don't know, a "blog" is another term for "web log". You have probably heard a lot about blogs recently, as they are becoming more and more popular. They are a great way for people to publish information on the internet in a manner that is quick to post and easy to update. You can read more about blogs here. I plan to write about a variety of parenting-related topics here, from my own experiences.

A podcast is basically an internet radio show that you can listen to on your computer or download on to your iPod or mp3 player. You can read more about podcasts here. We recently went into the studio to record our first series of shows, which will be posted in the coming weeks.

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please feel free to drop us a line at info@EveryDayMatters.com. We would love to hear from you!

How Could You Not Know?

2007-03-07T10:11:00.000-08:00

A 400 pound woman went to the hospital with a stomach ache.... and delivered a full term baby.

You can watch the video here.

Toys that matter

2007-02-22T14:41:00.001-08:00

My nephew has more toys than he will ever be able to play with... and he is only three years old. Most are plastic, mass produced and purchased from some type of big box store. He seems to enjoy his toys - for at least a little while - before it breaks or he becomes bored with it.

What I love about Craftsbury Kids is that all the toys are handmade and constructed with quality materials. As Cecilia Leibovitz, the founder of Craftsbury Kids, puts it: "Rather than drown kids in cheap big-box booty, we say give them a handful of truly inspiring items that they will treasure, learn from and one day pass on to their own children."

My sentiments exactly!

If You are Lonely on Valentine's Day...

2007-02-14T08:23:00.001-08:00

Funny, funny stuff. It gets really good around the 2:15 mark.

Don't Kill the Kids!

2007-02-02T11:53:00.000-08:00

Here is a funny, yet useful tool for your (new) babysitter. I know many parents who spend most of their time worrying about their child when they are out to dinner, a movie, a party, etc. (i.e. "Did I remind her not to let Devon drink water before bed?")

This sheet has every bit of information a babysitter will need to keep the children safe and happy - and for you to feel comfortable while you are out.

More information and online ordering can be found here

Was your child born after 1982?

2007-01-30T11:34:00.000-08:00

Most likely you child was, indeed, born after 1982. What is the significance of that year, you may ask? Well, children born after that year are part of the "Millennial Generation". According to experts, this generation is the most protected and programmed group of children ever. And, apparently, schools, from elementary through college, are having difficulty working with students who have parents that control every aspect of their lives.

You can read the article here.

Children who have parents who do everything for them grow up to be adults who have their parents do everything for them. One of the greatest gifts parents can give their children is to allow them to exert and practice independence - so by the time they are adults they can be confident, self-relaint members of society.