Protecting Our Children against Sexual Abuse

No one wants to think about sexual abuse - a horrendous possibility. However, with a young soon to be 5 year old girl, unfortunately, this possibility has started to fill my thoughts. I would be torn apart if ever I put her in a situation to trust an adult who then not only took that trust away but violated her carefree disposition as all 5 year olds. I was thinking of researching a few sites when I saw an ad on CNN for this organization. This site seems very thorough - stats, local resources, articles and of course, prevention and programs. I found that the 7 STEPS TO PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN on this site: http://www.darkness2light.org/7steps/step1.asp is a great start as well as a good intro to the site. Other sites that I found: http://www.apa.org/releases/sexabuse/protect.html for the American Psychological Association and http://helpandhealing.org/PreventionProtectingKids.htm from the Rape Crisis Program in a county in OH, but the info is still relevant and important. It never hurts to be aware of the dangers of sexual molestation and abuse.

Common Sense Media Ratings

Ever unsure what the tv and movie ratings really mean? Sometimes a G-rated movie like Wall-e is not appropriate for 5-7 year olds while a PG-rated movie such as Bee Movie is ok for the 5-7 age group...and what do the ratings for TV programs really mean? It sometimes makes parenting difficult when you have to be educated on all the information your child sees and there is A LOT of information out there!

I found a site that includes movies (in theaters and on DVD), tv programs, games, music, web sites and books and uses the web site's staff, group of parent experts as well as kids for specific age groups. It is easy to navigate and understand. The basic rating premise is green for go, yellow for caution and red means stop. There are also age levels associated with the colors too as programs may be appropriate for 8+ but not 4 year olds. This site takes some of the guesswork out of the ratings and gives you more information before going to that movie or allowing to rent a DVD or buy a book. We as parents can't pre-read all our children's books or preview all their DVDs before they do. So, this site is very nice to reference when those opportunities arise! http://www.commonsensemedia.org/

Leaving a Legacy

Ever thought about putting together a Family Tree? There are many ways to do it these days. There is a software program called Family Tree Maker that walks you through the steps. There is a great book about writing your family history called Legacy by Linda Spence. There is a magazine too called Family Tree Maker by Ancestry.com which keeps you current on the resources and tips to save documents. Then, of course, there are Internet sites - http://www.geni.com/ and http://www.ancestry.com/. Each has its own pros and cons. Geni.com helps you set up a shared tree with networking features while ancestry.com gives you access to public records to help with your data gathering. These days it is easier than ever to save records, pictures etc. So, don't wait too long before capturing all of your wonderful family memories to share with your children! And, what about making it a family activity - get everyone involved and educated in making your family tree! Have fun!

Fourth of July Celebrations

It is hard to believe that the 4th of July is almost here! But, it is true. We are in the midst of summer and I can hardly believe it. Hopefully, you are heading somewhere fun and cool. But, if you are not, here is a list of the fireworks displays in the Bay Area so that you can bring a picnic dinner and enjoy the celebration! And, just so you know why we celebrate on July 4th (the Declaration was signed on the 2nd of July), here is a link to a summary of the historical events that led up to the July 4th celebrations. http://news.yahoo.com/s/livescience/20080701/sc_livescience/whenwasthe4thofjulyfirstcelebrated


SAN FRANCISCO - Fisherman's Wharf Waterfront, 9:30 p.m.
OAKLAND - Jack London Square, 9:15 p.m.
BERKELEY - Berkeley Marina, 9:30 p.m.
SAN JOSE - Discovery Meadow 9:30 p.m.
SAUSALITO - Waterfront, 9:15 p.m.
SAN RAFAEL - Marin County Fairgrounds 9:30 p.m.
VACAVILLE - Andrews Park, 9:30 p.m.
REDWOOD CITY - Seaport Court - Dusk
FOSTER CITY - Foster City Lagoon - 9:30 p.m.
HALF MOON BAY - Pillar Point Harbor - 9:30 p.m.

How to Keep Cool Today...

Trying to keep cool today??? Head towards water! There are plenty of things to do in Santa Cruz like the Boardwalk, the beach, Capitola and it is only about an hour away. But, of course, you have traffic, the effects of the fires (latest one was 50% contained as of this am) and still a high of 92 degrees, but you have a breeze and the water! In SF, where the high is only expected to be 85 degrees, Ghiradelli Square will have free ice cream sundaes at 4pm and there are plenty of stores, museums and parks to enjoy the day and stay cool. Or you could head to nearby Stinson Beach or Sausalito too for a picnic and great scenery. Other options: Half Moon Bay is always cool and the downtown Main Street is fun to stroll, grab a sandwich and window shop. If the kids need to play and splash in the water, the nearby beaches are happy to facilitate! Less obvious options: Alameda shoreline, Mountain View shoreline, Quarry Lakes, Fremont, Vasona Park, Los Gatos. There are also numerous parks with water elements - Campbell Central Park, San Ramon Central Park and many others. And, don't forget that Chabot Science Center has Family Day today...air-conditioned entertainment! Whatever you do, enjoy and keep cool!

Green Mom Finds on GE Foods

GE (or genetically engineered) foods, also called GMOs, are addressed on the green mom finds web site - http://greenmomfinds.com/. There hasn't been much written or reported on GE food, but it is really a huge industry. The top four items that are genetically engineered: corn, soy, canola and cotton. There are a few good DVDs and books on this subject. I have seen a powerful DVD called The Future of Food which was fascinating and scary all at once. The EU doesn't allow any GE foods nor does Japan. They are watching the US to see what the outcome of this GE will produce in a decade or more down the road....not such a good feeling to be the guinnea pig of the franken-foods! So, beware! And, more pesticides are used for GE foods. There is a good snapshot guide to GE foods on the green mom finds site which reminds you that organic foods are never GE foods so that once again, organics are the way to go if you want to stay away from GE foods. These days, we are all more educated and aware of the food we eat and the eco friendly way to grow and eat that food. Information is key. Keep researching and reading. That is the only way you can make the best decisions for yoru family.

Free Family Fun Day at Chabot Space and Science Center

June 21st is Family Fun Day at the Chabot Space and Science Center - they are celebrating their 125 years and it means admission is FREE! What a great way to learn about the stars, organic matter and much more! I was hoping to join the masses there but we will be celebrating Midsummer at Sveadal which we do every year. So, we will have to check it out some other time. Olivia's school is studying space and the stars this month, so she is definitely ready for the Space Center! Enjoy this fun day!

Children's Fairyland in June

Children's Fairyland in Oakland at Grand and Bellevue Avenues, will have daily puppet shows, arts and crafts and children's theater performances each weekend through June. I have never been there but plan on heading up one of these weekends. It sounds great, especially for 3-8 year olds! Entrance is $6 for ages 1-100 and under 1 is free. On the 3rd weekend of June, July and August, Target will sponsor the exploration of a different culture's stories and arts and crafts, geared for young children. They also host birthday parties. Check it out at http://www.fairyland.org/ or call 510-238-6878.

How to Raise a Successful Child - According to the Experts

There was an interesting program on The Big Idea with Donnie Deutsch last week about successful children and how to raise them. There were a handful of panelists with somewhat differing ideas but some similarities too. Troy Dunn was one of the guests and he has written a book about it, not to mention living it with 7 children of his own. He think it is healthy to give them incentive to win early as this is how life is and otherwise you are shielding them from it. Kimberly Spinks Burleson was also on the show and talked about the influence her father had and how she influences her children to succeed. Dr. Koplewicz, a psychiatrist, has his own top 10 list of how to raise successful children including taking time with your kids, share your stuggles, let kids make mistakes. And, Donnie himself, seemingly based on the collective info from the panelists, has The Ultimate Playbook for Raising Your Kids for Success. Always interesting to hear what the "experts" say and then adapt it according to the very personal needs of your own children. Take a look and make your own assessment...http://www.cnbc.com/id/24856934 - another article to add to your parenting playbook!

Baby Tip for Teething - Bath Toys

I have a 9 month old that just got her lower incisors and has been biting everything! I have given her teething rings but she only seems mildly interested by them. One thing that I happened to notice works well though, which makes perfect sense - RUBBER BATH TOYS! She loves chewing on the little rubber animals and it seems to calm her down. So, if you haven't already thought of this, just a little tip!

Events for Week of May 19th in the Bay Area

Here are a few activities in the East Bay for the little ones before the busy three day weekend...


Tues - 20

Child Safety Seat Inspections at Child Care Links in Pleasanton. childcarelinks.org. This happens at Child Care Links every third Tuesday of the month. So, if you can't make it this month, check it out next month.


Joy of Movement at Kensington Library - 61 Arlington Ave, Kensington at 6:30 pm. Move, sing and jump around. Ages 3 and up. Free. 510-524-3043 or http://www.ccclib.org/


Wed - 21


Bubble Lady - she entertains the family with amazing bubble tricks at the Brentwood Library 4-4:45 free. Brentwood Lib - 751 Third St., 925-634-4101 or ccclib.org.


Thur - 22


Chocolate Tour at Charles Chocolates in Emeryville. Learn how chocolate is made during a guided factory tour of the Charles Chocolates production facility. Tours are given at 11:30 am and 2:30 pm every W, F, Sat and Sunday free. 6529 Hollis St., Emeryville - charleschocolates.com.

Children's Wetland Storytime at Big Break Regional Shoreline, Bridgehead Road, Antioch from 9:30-10:30 am. Discover the wetlands with a story and a walk along a dirt road. Strollers welcome. Registration is required but it is free. 888-eb-parks or http://www.ebparks.org/


Fri - 23


Buki the Clown - Join Buki every Friday for balloon animals, face painting and more. 11-11:30 am for kids 1-5/ $4.95 all day. Parents and pre-crawlers are free. At Tumble and Tea, 4210 Telegraph in Berkeley. tumbleandtea.com

Tip of the Month - Real Simple

This magazine is the best for busy moms! It has organization tips including worksheets and checklists to help you, great recipes, short cut tips, road trip tips, product reviews and articles on making time for yourself, family memories etc. If you have not taken a look at this magazine yet, check out the web site: http://www.realsimple.com/realsimple/homepage/flash/0,23022,,00.shtml

It is a gem especially for us busy moms!

Easy Summer Recipes - Poll Winner!

The winner of the poll is Easy Summer Recipes! The voters have spoken, so here goes...I am including 2 unique dinner recipes (from the usual tacos, pasta, stir fry, hamburgers menu) that I have not tried yet but seem fresh, easy and healthy. I will try them in the next couple of weeks and let you know how it goes! There are others that are available on Real Simple's web site (one of my favorite magazines!) and I am including a link for 100 kid-friendly recipes (not all for dinner, some desserts, lunches too) that you can view as well. http://food.realsimple.com/realsimple/recipefinder.dyn?action=browseResults&CONVENIENCES=Kid-Friendly&subCatsListed=false. Another site that has lots of family favorite recipes (some may be less healthy than others) is http://allrecipes.com/Recipes/Everyday-Cooking/Family-Favorites/Main.aspx. They even have an article there discussing the Kids' Guide to Table Manners - never a bad thing to peruse! Whole Foods even has a page on their web site that includes kid-friendly recipes. However, these are more breakfast, snack and lunch oriented. But, could be used for a light dinner too. http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipes/list_kids.html Many of these are geared for kids to help make too and have fun eating...And, the ultimate site for recipes, Epicurious, has its own kid-friendly recipes here http://www.epicurious.com/tools/browseresults?type=browse&att=162 - again some are more breakfast and lunch oriented.



Check out the two below and let me know what you think...or share one of your favs!



Tortilla-Crusted Cod Cakes

1 medium red onion,1 bunch fresh cilantro, 4 tablespoons olive oil,1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped, 1 1/2 pounds cod fillet, 1 egg, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 cup finely crushed tortilla chips (from 3 cups chips), 2 oranges, peeled and thinly sliced into circles

Heat oven to 350° F. Finely chop enough onion to measure 3/4 cup and enough cilantro stems to measure 1 tablespoon (reserving the leaves). Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, cilantro stems, and jalapeño and cook until softened, 4 minutes. Pulse the cod, egg, salt, pepper, and the onion mixture in a food processor until combined but not pureed. Form 8 cod cakes. Coat each cake with the chips. Wipe out skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of the remaining oil over medium heat. Add 4 cakes and cook until golden brown, 3 minutes on each side. Transfer to a baking sheet. Wipe out skillet and repeat with 1 tablespoon of the remaining oil and the last 4 cakes. Bake until cooked through, about 10 minutes. Thinly slice the remaining onion. Toss with the oranges, 1/2 cup of the cilantro leaves, and the remaining oil. Serve with the cakes.Tip: Cilantro stems have a mild though distinct flavor. Use them when you want a slightly less pungent cilantro presence than you'd get from the leaves. Yield: Makes 4 servings


Balsamic Poached Chicken

1 pound new potatoes, halved or quartered, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 pound asparagus, trimmed, 1 14.5-ounce can low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup balsamic vinegar, 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Heat oven to 400° F. Place the potatoes in a roasting pan. Drizzle with the oil. Season with 3/4 teaspoon of the salt and the pepper, and toss. Roast for 30 minutes, shaking the pan once. Add the asparagus to the pan with the potatoes, season with the remaining salt, and toss. Roast until the asparagus is tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, bring the broth and vinegar to a boil. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Pound the chicken to an even thinness. Add the chicken and, if necessary, enough water (up to 1/2 cup) to cover it. Simmer for 1 minute. Cover, remove from heat, and set aside until cooked through, about 15 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Return the liquid to medium-high heat and simmer until reduced to about 1/3 cup, about 10 minutes. Thickly slice the chicken. Divide the ingredients among individual plates. Drizzle with the balsamic mixture.Tip: The pungent smell of simmering vinegar can linger long after you remove the pan from the stove. To reduce the odor, open the windows or turn on a fan early in the cooking process. Yield: Makes 4 servings

Birthday Parties Galore!

Summertime means no school, water sports, beach and vacation. But, it also means lots of birthday parties! There are so many places that cater to children and their birthday parties now that it is hard to remember all of them when the time comes to plan your child's birthday! Of course, the list includes the local zoos, children's discovery museums, skating rinks and gyms. But, there are a few other options too. The Hayward Nature Center provides a birthday package with the introduction of 3 animals and a short discussion of nature and animals. We have been there for a birthday and it is nice and shady in the summer months too. Picture perfect in Dublin and Superfranks in Pleasanton are kids' activities centers that cater to kids and make it easy on mom and dad as they take care of much of the party details from invitations, activities, entertainment and more. A more unique bday party can incorporate science demos or cooking classes! There is also an option to contact the Parks and Rec Dept as they now have theme parties organized in their community centers - ballerina, princess and pirate packages are listed in the Fremont Parks and Rec Spring Guide. If you would prefer to have the festivities at home, you can rent the usual bouncy house or even bring in a magician, face painter, balloon artist or princess to sing a fairytale song. If you need some ideas, see the list below of things to do.

Places:

Superfranks - http://www.superfranks.com/

Oakland Zoo - http://www.oaklandzoo.org/

Pets and More - a safe and hands on experience with exotic reptiles and furry friends - San Jose - 408-374-9722

Happy Hollow in San Jose -www.hhpz.com (however, they close in July for a remodel)

Discovery Museum in San Jose - http://www.cdm.org/

Sulphur Creek, Hayward Nature Center - http://www.haywardrec.org/sulphur_creek.html

The Golden Skate in San Ramon - http://www.thegoldenskate.com/

Silliman Center in Newark (pools and water slides) - http://www.ci.newark.ca.us/play/recreation.html

Little Gym - http://www.thelittlegym.com/

Gymboree - http://www.gymboree.com/

Color Me Mine - many locations in Bay Area (ceramic crafts) - http://www.colormemine.com/

Parks and Rec community centers - http://www.regerec.com/

Bouncy house opening in Pleasanton - http://www.bounceu.com/

Young Chefs Academy - all inclusive bday parties in Sunnyvale - www.youngchefsacademy.com/sunnyvale

Mad Science Birthday Party - www.madscience.org/southbay or www.madscience.org/mtdiablo for ages 4-12 years.

In-house entertainment:

Bay area jump - bouncy houses - http://www.bayareajump.com/

Princess entertainment - http://www.magicprincess.com/ and http://www.firepixie.com/ and http://www.funtasticparties.us/

Varied entertainment from ponies to face painting - http://www.mostunique.com/

The Other Cheek - local face painting and balloon artist

Dreamstart Parties - bubbles, balloons, face paints, real princesses, crafts - http://www.dreamstarparties.com/

Mary Ellen Hill Storyteller - http://www.mehstories.com/

Party Jumps with bouncy houses, live entertainers adn even concessions and equipment to rent - http://www.appianpartyjumps.com/

Teaching Empathy & Community Support

My 4 1/2 year old asked me about a homeless woman asking for money on the street corner as we were at a stoplight the other day. She was just curious about the world around her and had never seen this before, or noticed it before. But, it made me realize what a difficult task it is being a parent and explaining the complexities of real life to a preschooler without making her feel guilty or more confused. I get the simplest answer while still allowing her to feel validated for asking but she asked me later that night, "Do you think that lady found a home tonight?". Children process things slowly and deliberately and sometimes without us really paying attention, especially in a busy world. But, this made me realize that it would be important to follow up with some discussion about our clothes and toys donations to various organizations, engage her more in Toys for Tots and also to model behavior that shows community support and that we care for the people around us. It is easy as an adult to get callous and less caring. But, it is important to develop empathy in our children. This forces us all to be better people. I did a little research and the following organizations are geared towards charity, volunteering and children. Starting this early with children makes it a part of their life without even thinking about it...another wonderful family activity while making the world a better place through community support!

http://www.usafreedomcorpskids.gov/kids/

http://www.kidsturncentral.com/holidays/christmas/volunteer.htm

Memorial Day Events

Kids andKites in Fremont - May 24th from 11-4pm in Central Park at the Softball Complex. This event will feature 2000 free kites for kids, stage performances, games and giveaways. For more info: http://www.ci.fremont.ca.us/Events/event080524kitefestival.htm

18th Annual Art and Wind Festival in San Ramon - May 25th thru May 26th from 10-5 in Central Park at Alcosta. This event features arts and crafts, entertainment, kite flying demos and food booths. Admission is free! For more info: http://upcoming.yahoo.com/event/414226?trk=ssp

Beauty and the Beast at the American Musical Theater in San Jose - running from May 13-25th. This is a great cultural event for the whole family. We saw "Belle" at Happy Hollow on Sunday, May 4th and she had a wonderful "Disney like" manner and nice voice. Olivia and her friend were enchanted by her...For more info: http://www.amtsj.org/

19th Annual KidFest presented by John Muir Health from May 24-26; 11-6 each day. This festival takes place at the Todos Santos Plaza in downtown Concord. Activities include face painting, balloons, karaoke, entertainment on 4 stages, carnival games, sports activities, art tent and photo opportunities with SpongeBob SquarePants best friend, Patrick. Visit dozens of booths with products and services for kids and parents; eat great food and snacks and shop for handmade crafts. For more info, visit www.kidfestconcord.com.

Go Green!

Yes, everyone is jumping on the eco friendly and green bandwagon these days. I was just at Borders Bookstore and there were about 15 new books on the subject! And, this is a great thing! The awareness has grown and people start thinking more about how they use the earth's resources, what they use in their house and how they can help minimize their carbon footprint. There are a few sites I have found that are quite informative and interesting that I thought I would share.

If you haven't already seen the movie, read the book and/or visited the web site, the first site to visit is: http://www.climatecrisis.net/. This is Al Gore's site and although it is a promotional vehicle for the book and movie, it provides interesting info, data and shows you what your carbon footprint is and how to help reduce it.

Another great site to help with your environmental awareness that I just happened upon lately that is more practical: http://www.lowimpactliving.com/. This site covers the impact, green projects you can tackle and even some of the products to use that are more eco-friendly. It is very user-friendly and visually appealing too.

A site that is good for household eco friendly products: http://www.seventhgeneration.com/. These products seem great and can be bought online.

Top 5 Tips to Go Green:

Recycle grocery bags - Trader Joes is a great example of a company that makes it easy for you to do this.

Put in energy saving light bulbs - Easy and now can be found everywhere.

Turn off your power strip - a matter of habit!

Use reuseable water bottles (BPA free, of course!) and use filtered tap water to eliminate bottled water waste.

Compost your food scraps. In Fremont, they make it easy with the green bin and small container to gather them in. But, otherwise, just grab a box and line it with newspaper and gather your scraps....

Traveling Tip of the Month

Before everyone heads out for summer vacation, especially via airplane, let me pass on a helpful hint: www.babysaway.com. I heard about this service through Via Magazine (put out by AAA) and it sounds great! With all the airport security, lines, weight restrictions when traveling, it is not easy to take all the baby gear and still keep your sanity and enjoy your vacation. This company has thought of that and has you covered! They provide cribs, strollers, high chairs, swings, exersaucers, beach gear and toys for your little ones so that you don't have to pack it and worry about it making it there and back. They deliver it to your destination and pick up when you are ready to leave. They have more than 70 locations in 29 states right now and is operated by parents and grandparents. Everything is sanitized and in good condition and equipment is certified by JPMA. Check it out and simplify your trip!

5th Annual "Meet Babi" Fair in Campbell - May10th

Saturday, May 10, 2008
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
at the Campbell Community Center
1 West Campbell AvenueCampbell, California 95008

Description:
Bay Area Birth Information (BABI), a local non-profit organization, will hold its 5th annual Meet BABI Fair connecting expectant and new parents with dedicated professionals, services, information, and community resources.

A group of birth-related professionals who wished to provide a stronger community of support for birthing and new families founded BABI, the only non-profit, non-affiliated pregnancy and parenting resource organization in the South Bay and Peninsula.The community will have the opportunity to connect with birth professionals in the Bay Area. On hand for consultations will be midwives, doulas, childbirth and new baby instructors, breast-feeding and postpartum support, chiropractors, acupuncturists, herbalists, pre-natal and infant massage therapists, pre-natal yoga instructors, and local support groups.

There will also be free massage, personal consultations, lots of prize drawings, face painting, demonstrations and mini lectures by local experts throughout the day.BABI promotes awareness of evidence-based care and options in order to reduce unnecessary birth interventions, improve breastfeeding success rates, and preserve healthy mother, baby, and family attachments. Through compassionate, accessible, and non-judgmental education and resources, BABI seeks to increase and promote normal, spontaneous labor and vaginal delivery, minimize mother/baby separations, and reduce the maternal/infant morbidity and mortality rates.

BABI promotes great-er awareness of evidence-based care and the broad range of choices available to birthing women as well as birth professionals, restoring dignity, satisfaction and joy to the birthing process.

Any other questions, please visit the web site: http://www.bayareabirthinfo.org

Old-Fashioned Toy Stores

After the scare with toys in China last year and the continuing recall of toys that seem to pass quality control and yet have high levels of lead paint, the demand for solid wooden toys has sky-rocketed. This has helped local toy stores (see below) as well as European toy manufacturers such as Brio bring in customers not only with discriminating taste for solid quality but for also for educational and wholesome toys for their children. Many of us realized that the cheap toys that we knew would break after a few "play sessions" are not only inexpensive due to the materials but at times also the lack of stringent regulations. We now expect more and will pay more for our toys even if it means buying fewer toys. I know I would love to get rid of many of my daughter's knick knacks that she gathers from birthday goody bags, giveaways and carnival prizes. These local toy stores help to get us back on track with the idea of solid, educational toys that need not be in abundance to be impactful to our children. I have personally visited The Play Store and enjoyed wandering through even though I didn't have a big purchase. They have lots of wooden toys, puzzles, books, some crafts and of course, the larger play kitchen and doll house. What a nice contrast to the commercialized toys of Toys R'Us and Target!

The Play Store in Palo Alto - http://www.playstoretoys.com/ - 508 University Ave. Phone: 650-326-9070
The Wooden Horse in Los Gatos - http://www.woodenhorsetoys.com/ - 796 Blossom Hill Rd. Phone: 408-356-8821
Talbots Toyland Inc. in San Mateo - http://www.talbotstoyland.com/ - 445 S. B St. Phone: 650-931-8100

Check out their google reviews too!