Nancy's Club Calendar ***

9am – 2pm, enjoy…Rides, Petting zoo, Obstacle courses, Prize games, Plus family entertainment, delicious food, tasty drinks, and much, much more! Marin Art and Garden Center, Sir Francis Drake Boulevard.

10:30am-1:30pm, Spring is in bloom! Come join an experienced YMCA naturalist to explore all the beauty that spring has to offer here in the Marin Headlands.

Moderate to Strenuous hike 3-5 miles. Bring your own bagged lunch. Meet at Marin Headlands Visitor Center restrooms, 10:30 am.

Pre-registration required, 331 9622 or email doyobio@ymcasf.org. $10/adult , $5/child.

Trips for Kids Re-cyclery HUGE Blow-Out Sale, offering huge discounts on selected items at our Re-Cyclery Bike Thrift Shop in San Rafael and at our Warehouse in San Rafael.

Bike frames, forks, wheels, tires, helmets, bike racks, frame pumps, floor pumps, lights, locks, bar tape, clothes, cycling shoes, and lots more will be on sale at bargain prices.

Transform a small plain box into a beautiful keepsake perfect for holding jewelry or other precious items. 1pm and 4pm, Randall Museum.

You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to build a rocket! Build a paper rocket to launch high above San Francisco with an air powered rocket launcher. 10:30, Randall Museum.

11am-6pm, Explore the Asian Museum for free during this annual program held during the Asian Heritage Street Celebration outside the museum. Asian Art Museum.

showcases the amazing work of all kinds and ages of makers—anyone who is embracing the do-it-yourself (or do-it-together) spirit and wants to share their accomplishments

with an appreciative audience. We encourage you to join the fun and enter a project to exhibit.

Grandpa Bunny’s Egg-citing Day!, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, The Blue Fairy, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.

Sunday, May 19

11am, Enjoy the sweet and energetic sounds of Youth in Arts’ a capella ensemble ‘Til Dawn.

Kids and families will be inspired by the group’s focus on positive, upbeat, songs and youthful dedication to their craft. Don’t miss this homegrown Bay Area treasure! Mill Valley Library.

10am – 1pm, Get your hiking shoes on and your taste buds ready. Ranger Charlie Schonwasser and Native Foods Chef, John Farais, lead this culinary hike on beautiful Mount Burdell. Learn the many ways local Native Americans used the abundant native plants of this area for food, medicine and other everyday needs.

Our destination is Pierre Joske Grove where we will rest and enjoy a shared meal. Please bring a cold dish to share and an optional recipe card to exchange with others. Meet at the gate on San Andreas Dr in Novato.

9am-3pm, A polka band, folk and popular group dances in traditional dress, a menu of authentic German/Austrian foods, and of course, excellent beers and other drinks,

complete a fun-filled day that is sehr gemütlich for all ages. Tourist Club, Mill Valley.

“The Sound of Music“, Don’t miss one of the most popular movie musicals of all time based on the true story of the Trapp Family Singers.

All shows start at 2:00pm. Get your tickets, grab a picnic and get ready to be enchanted. For more information call 383-1100.

The day will feature guided walks to learn about Olompali’s birds, plants, and archaeology, as well as talks by experts

who will discuss the park’s historical structures and the Burdell Victorian Garden. Olompali State Historic Park.

11am – 1pm, Join us at the McInnis Skate Park where rangers will offer tips and techniques for beginners and ways to attack features that build confidence and skill.

This event is geared towards the newbie and those looking to cross over from other board sports, but aren’t quite sure how to start. Make sure to bring your board, helmet and pads. Contact ACraig@marincounty.org. McInnis Skate Park, 310 Smith Ranch Road, San Rafael.

10:30 AM, Featured book, “Cactus Hotel”, San Francisco Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park.

1-3pm, learn more about the exhibitions on display, the building’s architecture, or Jewish holidays and traditions, while experimenting with materials and art techniques.

Inspired by the larger-than-life portraits in Kehinde Wiley Ι The World Stage: Israel, combine paper-cutting and textured painting to create your own fantastic work of art,

11am-4pm, Enjoy San Francisco’s best restaurants serving your favorite dishes family style. Mix and match the brunch of your dreams.

Pick up “fresh from the farm” produce. Experience “blanket-side” Bloody Mary and Mimosa service.

Watch as the kids enjoy classic lawn games like bocce ball and kite-flying, Presidio Main Lawn.

Grandpa Bunny’s Egg-citing Day!, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, The Blue Fairy, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.

showcases the amazing work of all kinds and ages of makers—anyone who is embracing the do-it-yourself (or do-it-together) spirit

and wants to share their accomplishments with an appreciative audience. We encourage you to join the fun and enter a project to exhibit.

Thursday May, 23

Friday May 25, Full Moon, Penumbral Lunar Eclipse

10am-2pm, come join the fun as we release 2000 young salmon into the San Francisco Bay, Blackie’s Pasture, Tiburon.

12 – 3pm, The annual McInnis Park Skateboard Competition is on again for all ages and abilities! There will be good food, music, and plenty of fun for the whole family.

Registration begins at 11am and the competition kicks off at 12pm. Prizes are awarded by age group: 5-9, 10-12, 13-15 and 16 and over.

Dig into our stamps and create a unique postage stamp collage! 1pm and 4pm, Randall Museum.

Drop-In Science, What time is it? It’s time to get a sundial! Understand how ancient peoples were able to tell and keep track of the time without modern technology.

The Elves & The Shoemaker, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, Dana Smith, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.

Sunday, May 26

Caledonia Street Festival, 11am- 6pm, “Welcome to the America’s Cup,” highlights include craft and art booths, live music entertainment and street performers. Sausalito.

Mountain Play, “The Sound of Music“, Don’t miss one of the most popular movie musicals of all time based on the true story of the Trapp Family Singers. All shows start at 2:00pm. Get your tickets, grab a picnic and get ready to be enchanted. For more information call 383-1100.

Larkspur Flower & Food Festival, 11 am to 6 pm, celebrate the beginning of Summer at the Bay Area’s longest running festival of flowers and food.

1-3pm, learn more about the exhibitions on display, the building’s architecture, or Jewish holidays and traditions, while experimenting with materials and art techniques.

Inspired by the larger-than-life portraits in Kehinde Wiley Ι The World Stage: Israel, combine paper-cutting and textured painting to create your own fantastic work of art,

11am-4pm, Enjoy San Francisco’s best restaurants serving your favorite dishes family style. Mix and match the brunch of your dreams. Pick up “fresh from the farm” produce. Experience “blanket-side” Bloody Mary and Mimosa service. Watch as the kids enjoy classic lawn games like bocce ball and kite-flying, Presidio Main Lawn.

The Elves & The Shoemaker, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, Dana Smith, 1:30pm & 2:30pm. Oakland.

Monday, May 27, Memorial Day

10am – 1pm, We will head up the hill and visit several different forest habitats. We’ll go through one area that is completely shaded by bay trees,

then we’ll walk up an oak covered hill, and finally end up in a little grove of redwoods.

Along the way we’ll talk about these different habitats and the different kinds of animals that live in each place.

We request that no animals (except service animals) attend. Heavy rain may cancel.

If questionable weather, call (415) 893-9527, Meet at the trailhead on Vineyard Rd in Novato.

10am-5pm, What’s makes an animal nocturnal? And how are they different than diurnal animals? This Memorial Day, learn about nocturnal animals during our fun-filled family event.

Get up close to nocturnal animals and attend special programming. Free with the cost of admission. CuriOdyssey, 1651 Coyote Point Dr., San Mateo, (650) 342-7755.

10am–12noon, Enjoy stories, movement games, arts and craft activities, and a movie. Activities are designed for children ages 1–5 and their caregivers. Schultz Museum.

Tuesday, May 28

6-7pm, A family program of bedtime stories & songs. Come in your pajamas and slippers! Bring your favorite stuffy! Fairfax Library.

Thursday, May 30

12:30-1:30pm, Part P-funk, part Punjabi-roots, BlacKMahal is a San Francisco-based live music experience complete with drums, DJs, horns, hip-hop MCs,

and the godfather of Punjabi-American music – Ustad Lal Singh Bhatti. BlackMahal is steeped in Old California,

a Punjabi-American experience that started in the 1890s when the first Punjabi-Americans settled in the Great West

and forged a new identity combining elements of Mexican and African-American influence. Yerba Buena, San Francisco.

Friday, May 31

4 – 6pm, Join us at McNears Beach Park to start the Memorial Day weekend for a “welcome to summer” beach party!

There will be food available, music, swimming, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Free parking and pool use!

Questions: Contact Ranger DSauter@marincounty.org. McNears Beach Park, 201 Cantera Way, San Rafael.

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Thanks to Little Passports, for only $10.95 per month your child can travel around the world. The first month delivers a suitcase packed with a world wall map, passport, letter from Sam and Sofia and activities. There are even online games!

Every month after, penpals Sam and Sofia send a package from a foreign country full of more goodies including fun souvenirs like sushi erasers, amethyst gemstones, and an Egyptian dig kit.

We love toys that educate and inspire, which is why we can't get enough of Little Passports, an easy way to globe trot with your family without even packing a suitcase.

Special Offer: Get 15% off a new subscription with code: REDTRI (expires10-31-2012). Sign up at littlepassports.com.

What’s New at the Walt Disney Family Museum

Can’t make it to the Magic Kingdom this year? Dreams can still come true at The Walt Disney Museum. For filmmaking enthusiasts, a trip to how the magic first happened and special new exhibitions could be truly inspiring. Housed in former barracks in the heart of the Presidio, you’ll find this stunning museum a vast tribute to the ambitious newspaper artist from Kansas City who would eventually conquer Hollywood. You’re as welcome as can be at the home of M-I-C-K-E-Y!

Located in the Presidio, the Walt Disney Family Museum is a memory trip into the art of animation and family classics such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Mary Poppins or Steamboat Willie. There you’ll see a miniature replica of Disneyland, meet the conductor behind Fantasia and hear Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah play on a ceiling giant screen. Bliss!

How to get here: Enter the Presidio at the Lombard Gate; at the second stop sign turn right onto Presidio Boulevard. Presidio Boulevard becomes Lincoln Boulevard; continue westbound. Follow Lincoln Boulevard until you reach the large parking lot on the left (Main Post). Park towards the center of the lot and take the center path to the row of large red brick buildings until you reach #104 Montgomery Street.

When to go: The museum is open year round from Wednesday-Monday from 10:00am-6:00 pm. It closes at 5:00 pm on “Animate Your Night” (perfect for date nights!) on Fridays.

What to do: The museum’s best kept secret may be their monthly screenings in the state-of-the-art theatre downstairs. Celebrate Halloween with Hallowscreen a special selection of haunted cartoon shorts such as The Skeleton Dance, The Mad Doctor, Pluto’s Judgment Day, and more. On Friday, October 26- Sunday, October 28, 2012 they’ll also host screenings of The Nightmare Before Christmas. Next up in November 2012: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs!

Between Frames: The Magic Behind Stop Motion Animation reveals the magic behind movie creatures such as King Kong, the Jurassic Park Velociraptors, and Star Wars AT-AT. The exhibition follows the evolution of stop motion animation in the United States from innovators like Tim Burton (The Nightmare Before Christmas), Henry Selick (Coraline and James and the Giant Peach), Phil Tippett (Star Wars and Jurassic Park), and more. The exhibit is on view from September 27, 2012 to April 28, 2013 in the museum’s Theater Gallery.

The museum’s first major exhibition Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: The Creation of a Classic celebrates the film’s 75th year. In this landmark show, you can see firsthand the terrific efforts made by the accomplished animators and artists who brought Disney’s first full-length motion picture to life. This special exhibit will be on view from November 15, 2012 to April 14, 2013. Check out the calendar for special family activities and programs.

What Not to Miss: Don’t miss the gorgeous museum store which features a wide selection of Disney memorabilia, seasonal gifts, home décor, books, gifts, and toys. Walt Disney said he didn’t make movies for kids or adults, but for everyone, “Everyone was once a child with a fine, unspoiled spot deep inside, maybe the world has made us forget, but our pictures can help us recall.”

The real attraction, though, lies in ten rooms of permanent exhibits staged theatrically on two floors. The pint-size set will prefer to flash through the first floor displays on the history of Walt’s family so they can reach the second floor’s amazing animated walls through an elevator that could belong in Disneyland. Then depending on your kids, you can spend 30 minutes or two hours on the second floor.

The Disneyland miniature replica finale is a highlight of the museum and will keep little ones transfixed as they try to catch a glimpse of every automated carousel in the park. You might even plan your next Disneyland trip there!

What to skip: The first and second room on Walt’s childhood and early adulthood will likely not fascinate preschoolers, but the silent black and white shorts called Laugh-o-grams next to the elevator in Room 2 will captivate more than a few with their simple plots and graphic lines – perfect for kids with short attention spans.

Where to dine: The Walt Disney Museum has a charming café, with upstairs and downstairs seating for your little mouseketeers, featuring fizzy drinks, yogurt parfait, PB&J sandwiches, and chili in a bread bowl. You might also like to brown bag it on the lawn outside the museum on the Presidio grounds.

How to dress: The weather is notoriously unreliable in the Presidio so layer up before you go but once inside, you’re safe and warm.

Insider Tip: If you know you are going to stay for the movie, do buy your separate movie tickets in advance, online or in person. If nobody shows up with paid movie tickets at the screening time, the screening is cancelled.

Bathrooms: you can find nice colorful bathrooms with a changing table at the lower level, as well as two bathrooms located in Gallery 7b (right before the gallery with the view of the Golden Gate Bridge), one of which has a changing table.

Strollers: They are not allowed in the museum. Leave them downstairs at the coat check of the Lower Lobby before you start your visit.

Cost: Children under age 6 get in free with an adult admission. Prices are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors over 65 and students (with ID) and $12 for kids aged 6 through 17 years. AAA members get a $5 discount per ticket (limit 4 tickets) at the ticket counter. Movie screenings are $7 per adult and $5 for children age 17 years and under.

Insider Tip: On December 5, 2012 in honor of Walt Disney's birthday, the museum will be free (limit two tickets per person).

Online: waltdisney.com

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From Pasta to Pastries: Bay Area Cooking Classes for Kids

Remember the first time you surprised your mom with breakfast in bed? It was probably something along the lines of a cold Pop-Tart and a glass of OJ. Over the years, your culinary skills have doubtlessly improved, and cooking is something you now enjoy doing with your own kiddo. Why not move the little one up from mommy’s helper to talented chef in his own right with the help of a kid’s cooking class? With some professional inspiration, the breakfasts he surprises you with may just turn out to be gourmet.

Here are some of the cooking schools and classes around the Bay designed with little ones in mind:

Cucina Bambini
When your little bambino learns to make a pasta dish from start to finish, his confidence in the kitchen will shoot up a ton! That’s the goal at Cucina Bambini in San Jose, with Lil’ Chef classes, Cupcake Workshops, and more for children as young as 3. Parent-child workshops are also available.

Little Spoons Café
Chef Eric guides kids as young as 4 through the Flavor Lab, where they learn how taste works and get their creative juices flowing. Experiments and show and tell will help kids love to get cooking at these Piedmont-based classes.

In the Kitchen
Sunday mornings, The Culinary Dude, Chef Scott Davis, hosts a cooking series here for 4 to 14 year-olds, guiding them through measuring, peeling, cutting and sautéing. All the ingredients used at Sausalito’s In the Kitchen are local and sustainable, and on Tuesdays, even toddlers can get in on the action with a toddler/parent cooking class.

Ramekins
The chefs at Ramekins in Sonoma are dedicated to teaching kids alternatives to packaged snacks. With classes like “Kids Can Cook Afternoon Snacks” and kids’ culinary camps for those ages 7 and up, the days of their fending for themselves will be closer than you think.

Habitot
This Berkeley museum for toddlers also hosts classes, among them the popular Flavors of Asia, taught by Herna from the Oakland Asian Cultural Center. Tiny hands are perfect for making Asian finger foods like potstickers and sushi!

Kids Culinary Adventures
Public classes and private sessions are both available at this long-standing, San Mateo school. In addition to honing in on the creative spirit of cooking, Kids Culinary Adventures teaches little ones as young as 3 about safety, “kitchen cooties,” and organizing their own culinary toolbox.

Sprouts Cooking Club
A real culinary maven, the founder of Sprouts Cooking Club also started the first culinary club at U.C. Berkeley. She soon drew her attention to kids, founding Sprouts Cooking Club so children 7 and up could take classes with real chefs in real restaurants, curbing a cycle of poor health and nutrition.

The Culinary Dude
The Culinary Dude blends Early Childhood Education with Culinary Arts. There’s no question that a lot of learning goes on here! Private classes on everything from breakfasts to healthy meals to Southern food are available for adults and kids, in your kitchen!

Young Chef's Academy
Cooking involves everything from science to math to reading at Sunnyvale’s Young Chef’s Academy. Weekly, interactive classes for kids from 3 to their teenage years explore new themes that include basics like table setting, manners, and proper food handling.

Kids Cooking for Life
Empowerment is a big part of learning how to cook, and the mission at this San Rafael spot is to promote self esteem and healthier lifestyles, and reversing the epidemic of diabetes and childhood obesity. Classes cover lessons on cooking, nutrition, safety, and culture.

Downward-Facing Toddler: Yoga for Kids in The Bay Area

Remember when you could luxuriously spend 90 minutes perfecting your tree pose on a Saturday morning, never worrying about nap schedules or soccer practice? You'll fall in love with yoga again once you realize the calming effect it has on your kiddos, which is a win for everyone in the household.

Little ones can learn yoga through games, songs, stories, fun poses and creative movements that spark their imaginations, strengthen and stretch their growing bodies, all in a playful, non-competitive environment. Fitness is one of the best gifts you can give your child, so check out these joyful and creative classes specially designed for them. Like the idea of practicing yoga together? Give one of these weekend family yoga classes a try!

San Francisco

It’s Yoga Kids
With its clean and spacious studio in the Presidio and great classes for toddlers, preschoolers, 5 to 8 year olds, special needs kiddos of all ages, and family yoga; It’s Yoga Kids is the perfect place to get the kiddos started on their yoga journey. Every class includes breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, mindfulness practices, cooperative games, and art!

Cost: Drop-ins are $20 for Sunday family yoga classes, all other classes require registration. The next 10-week session starts March 20 so don’t wait until the last minute!

569 Ruger Street
The Presidio, Ca 94129
415-750-9990

The Integral Yoga Institute of San Francisco
Enjoy yoga together at their super-fun, highly interactive Family Yoga Workshop on the first Sunday of every month from 9.30am to 10:15am (all ages welcome).

Cost: $20 per family.

770 Dolores Street at 21st Street
San Francisco, Ca 94110
415-821-1117

Uplifting Yoga For All
Seasoned and dedicated yoga teacher Rebecca Blake teaches a FREE Kid’s Yoga class every 2nd Sunday of the month from 12:30pm to 1:30pm. All ages are welcome. In addition, Rebecca will teach a customized class to your family or your kids in your home – just give her a call.

The Sports Basement - Presidio
610 Old Mason Street
San Francisco, CA 94129
415-378-7001

Purushu Yoga
Purushu Yoga offers “Yoga for Kids” on Saturdays from 10:00am to 11:15am. Bonus: Kids receive a 25% discount off any regular-priced membership package.

3729 Balboa St (between 38th and 39th Avenue)
San Francisco, Ca 94121
415-668-9642

The Yoga Garden
The Yoga Garden offers yoga classes for tiny tots with a parent/caregiver, preschoolers, and kindergartners thru second-graders (called “seeds,” “sprouts,” and “blossoms” – (how cute is that?) The littlest ones learn simple breathing techniques and enjoy lots of yoga play, while older ones get to do other fun stuff such as invent their own poses to share with others!

Cost: Membership includes the cost of most fitness classes, otherwise nonmembers can purchase a pass for $24 a day or $12 with a member joining you.

JCCSF
3200 California Street at Presidio
San Francisco, Ca 94118
415-292-1221

JAMaROO
Kiddos love the yoga classes at JAMaROO because they get to improve their balance, coordination, listening, and focusing skills in a lively and fun atmosphere. Thirty-minute classes are offered for 2 to 3, 4 to 5, and 5 to 7 year-olds and class size is limited to 10.

Cost: Enjoy no membership or registration fees! $175 for an 8 week session or $28 for a drop in class.

2001 Pine Street (on the corner of Pine and Laguna)
San Francisco, Ca 94115
415-614-2001

Peninsula

Nandi Yoga
With its gorgeous newly-renovated practice rooms and earth-friendly philosophy, Nandi Yoga is a super-popular place for yoga students of all ages, including kids. Nandi Yoga offers classes for toddlers (18 months to 3 years), preschoolers (3 to 5 years), and family yoga on Saturdays from 9:15am to 10:00am (open to all ages with a focus on kids 2 to 7). School-aged kids get to try out a complimentary class first so they can be placed in the one that suits them best. Registration is required.

Cost: Drop-in: $18 for a drop in class or $20 for 3 classes. For Family Yoga, $18 for one adult and one child, $4 for each additional family member (children under 2 are FREE).

309 8th Avenue
San Mateo, Ca 94401
650-343-YOGA

Yoga is Youthfulness
The Yoga is Youthfulness studio was voted Best Yoga Studio 2011 by a Mountain View Readers Poll -- find out all the reasons why by signing up your 5 to 12 year olds for their kid’s yoga class on Tuesdays from 4 to 5.

Cost: Drop-in: $15 or $90 for a series of 10 classes to be used within three months.

590 Castro Street
Mountain View, Ca 94041
650-964-5277

Yoga Bharati
Yoga Bharati offers yoga for kids 6 and up on Saturdays from 9:30am to 10:15am. Children learn to relax their minds and bodies through breathing exercises, simple chanting and getting to play fun yoga games.

Cost: $60 per month (20% off if you sign up for 3 months). All classes require preregistration.

133 E Fremont Avenue
Sunnyvale, Ca 94087

East Bay

Olga’s Yoga For Children
Olga Nirvair is an experienced, trained and certified children’s yoga teacher who just loves what she does!

Her spring 2012 class schedule will be up soon, so please check her website for details.

510-759-9923

Yogalayam, Prana Yoga Center
Moms can’t say enough good things about this place for its small, friendly and warm community spirit. Yogalam offers a yoga class for toddlers on Mondays from 9:15am to 11:15am, kids ages 3 to 5 on Tuesdays from 4:00pm to 5:00pm and one for ages 6 to 9 on Wednesdays from 4:00pm to 5:00pm.

Cost: Kids classes: $9 per class, $32 for 4 classes.

1723 Alcatraz Avenue
Berkeley, Ca 94703
510-655-3664

Marin

Yoga Center of Marin
518A Tamalpais Drive
Corte Madera, Ca 94925
415-927-1850

The ever-popular Yoga Center of Marin offers kid’s yoga classes for ages 6 to 10 on Wednesdays from 2:00pm to 3:10pm. This is a great intro to yoga, with simple poses and games using balloons, sparkles, feathers, jewels, and more.

All mats and materials are provided, and the class includes FREE walking pick-up from nearby Neil Cummins Elementary at 1:30pm.

Cost: $120 for an 8-week session.

The Yoga Garden
Expert children’s yoga instructor and Occupational Therapist Tammie Winter teaches a playful and creative kid’s class for ages 4 to 7 on Tuesdays from 4:15pm to 4:45pm.

Cost: Drop-in: $15. 8 class series: $100, begins March 2, no class April 13.

412 Red Hill Avenue #12
San Anselmo, Ca 94960

415-485-5800

Put Away the Piggy Bank: 4 Activities in Marin County for $10 or Less

Fabulous fun on ten dollars - could it be true? In Marin County? You better believe it, folks: some of the hidden gems, nosh-worthy food joints and kid-friendly hot spots are easy on the family budget too. Before burning a hole in the pocketbook for your locally sourced gourmet cafe, musical instruction, dance lessons, karate sessions and museum memberships, check out some of these 100% children-approved locations. After all, feeding and training a future all-star athlete, soloist or Nobel Prize winner shouldn’t have to send mom and dad to the piggy bank in hopes of scrounging up a few extra pennies! Here are some great ideas on how to enjoy Marin for $10 or less.

Fairfax Scoop

Begin or end an afternoon adventure at this one-of-a-kind organic ice cream shop cozily located within perfect walking distance from Peri Park and the rest of downtown Fairfax. The Scoop makes the sticky fingers and chocolate stains worth it with the aroma of fresh waffle cones slowly wafting up the street. Check the board for freshly whipped up seasonal flavors. Expect the line to be out the door for this favorite.

Dollar Saving Alert - Two scoops for less than $3? Yes please, totally worth the wait.

Fairfax Scoop
63 Broadway Blvd
Fairfax, Ca
415-453-3130

San Rafael Public Library - Downtown Branch
Free reads and great storytelling - hey, this is a no brainer! This branch of the San Rafael Public Library is home to a phenomenal children’s library; don’t even think about leaving without enjoying one of the fabulous story times (varied for different ages). Find out what happened to the big bad wolf, cheer on Alexander in his No Good, Very Bad Day and sing some songs with cheery finger puppets. Arrive early for a good spot.

Dollar Saving Alert - Sign up for a library card to check out books and DVDs.

San Rafael Public Library
1100 E Street
San Rafael, CA
415-485-3323
Online: srpubliclibrary.squarespace.com

Tennessee Valley Trail
For parents with children under the age of 6, it’s darn near impossible to find a more perfect hike than Tennessee Valley Trail. With only 1.7 miles until the breathtaking ocean view, little ones will have enough steam to run some of the way. And if they start to slow down, no worries! It’s wide, open and there’s a choice between a moderate incline and none at all. A key bit of knowledge: jogging strollers can be pushed all the way to the end of the trail, good news for those not jumping at the bit to carry their hiking enthusiast for a long stretch. The freshwater creek that feeds into the ocean makes for fun water play, as the waves are not safe for swimmers of any age.

Dollar Saving Alert - Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day watching the waves.

Tennessee Valley Trail
Mill Valley / Stinson Beach / Hwy. 1 exit
Follow Shoreline Highway until you see the Tennessee Valley Road sign
415-331-1540
Online: nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/tennessee_valley.htm

The Marine Mammal Center
Want to know why a sea lion roars or if an elephant seal has a tusk? Head for the veterinary hospital tucked away in the beauty of the Marin Headlands, where the philosophy and focus is on educating the public about marine mammals, their environment and health. The hard working staff does so by partnering with leading scientists and other professionals. Children and parents alike will enjoy learning about these ocean animals that have been brought back from near demise in hopes of being fully rehabbed for eventual release.

Dollar Saving Alert - Admission is free. A docent lead tour is only $7 per adult and $5 per child.

The Marine Mammal Center
2000 Bunker Road
Sausalito, Ca
Online: marinemammalcenter.org

We know there's a ton to do in Marin County on a shoe string budget. Let us know your favorite activities in the comment section below.

--Gabrielle Cullen

Photo courtesy of the Marine Mammal Center

Kids Classes & Camps

10 Awesome Hikes for Bay Area Kids

Few people can say that they enjoy pleasantly warm weather in autumn like those of us here in the Bay Area. It's usually during this time when you see people venturing outdoors and enjoying our "Indian Summer." Hiking during this season is typically less crowded, making for a serene hike, with the kids’ excited squeals being the loudest sounds on the trail. There are many great places for exploring this time of year, with the following parks and trails having their own special reasons to draw the family.

East Bay

Mitchell Canyon
Take the kids out to see the big spiders. In the fall, Mount Diablo is one of the top places to catch the tarantulas out and about during their mating season. Mitchell Canyon in Mount Diablo offers an easy hike from the staging area to Deer Flat and back. In the spring, this hike is popular for the wildflowers, and the autumn season is a great time to appreciate the oak savanna woodland and pine groves.

Sycamore Grove
Livermore’s Sycamore Grove is home to one of the largest sycamore groves in the state. The park makes for a leisurely autumn walk on flat terrain. Walk 2.5 miles from the main entrance to Veteran’s Park, an open space park on the other end where the little ones can run loose.

Tilden Regional Park
Hiking is only part of what this awesome park has to offer. It also boasts pony rides, steam trains, a farm, a swimming spot. Surrounding the kids area are some short, mostly flat hiking trails that are great for the little set.

Marin

Tomales Point
The grazing tule elk and refreshing seabreezes give autumn new meaning at this Point Reyes destination. Quiet most of the year, Tomales Point is popular with hikers in the fall, when the weather is mild and the elk are out in droves amid clusters of cypress trees. Those giant antlers alone will fascinate the kiddos.

King Mountain Loop Trail
Loop nearly two miles around the crown of King Mountain at this easy-as-pie excursion. Native plants and quiet oak-bay forests make this trail an autumn gem.

South Bay

Castle Rock State Park
Majestic coast redwoods, lush Douglas-firs, and wild forests of madrone make the trails at this South Bay park come alive with beautiful nooks and crannies, including those filled with the intricate sandstone rock formations that inspired the park’s name. Holes in the rocks are big enough for the kids to climb through.

Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve
This preserve is often crowded on the weekends, busy with runners along the paved paths and hikers traversing along the trails. Deer Hollow Farm is about a mile from the parking lot and is a great spot to stop and explore. Check out the animals, vegetable garden, and the big red barn. terrific mileage goal for young hikers. Get to the farm, have a snack and peek around. Most of the lower trails in the park all lead to central locations, so little hikers and their parents are free to explore without getting lost or tired.

Henry W. Coe State Park
Mild weather and thin crowds attract autumn hikers to the deep canyons and tall ridges of Henry Coe State Park. While the trails here are known for being steep, there are some easy walks as well, including the one-mile Ponderosa Trail by the Coe Monument

San Francisco

Lobos Creek Trail
This half-mile boardwalk is great for enjoying with the kids. Monterey pines, monkeyflowers, scattered dunes, and a forest of cypress make this restored Presidio trail enjoyable during all seasons.

McLaren Park
Seven miles of trails, including short, easy loops and hilly landscaped paths leading to a reservoir make for some of the best urban walks. Find autumn shade among the eucalyptus, pine, and cypress trees, or stroll leisurely by the grassy slopes flanked by coyote brush, fennel, and shrubs.

Where do you take the kids hiking in the Bay Area?

-- Renee Macalino Rutledge

photo credit: ChelseaWa, & AnneCN via flickr

Is your child too old for clowns, jumpees or crafts? Here are 12 Birthday Party Ideas That Even Your Teen Will Enjoy. Please contact the companies directly for updated pricing and availability:

1. Indoor Skydiving. Take your birthday kid to iFly SF Bay for an experience they’ll never forget. Imagine the thrill of skydiving without the danger. Skydivers freefall through the air at 120 mph and up. iFly is a vertical wind tunnel. You’ll float on a cushion of air within feet of your instructor. The safe setting is suitable for children ages 7 & up. Adults will love the experience as well.The facility offers individual packages as well las group packages. For individuals, packages range from $49.95 & up for two flights. Group packages start at $199.95 & up. Some packages offer a DVD of your flight so you can relive the excitement for years to come.In the words of one 13 year old boy, “It was scary at first, but after it was over I wanted to do it again!”

Does your birthday kid have a lot of energy? Take the party to theHouse of Air in San Francisco. Located in the Presidio (next to Planet Granite rock climbing), the 10,000 sq.ft warehouse accommodates 67 conjoined trampolines to make up three distinct areas: the Matrix, the Colosseum, and the Training Ground. At the north end of the Matrix is where you’ll find the double bowl, an elevated structure resembling a bowl at a skateboard or ski park. The Colosseum is where jumpers can plan dodge ball, and the Training Ground is where you’ll find wakeboarders, skiers, skateboarders, and other athletes perfecting their moves mid-air. For this area, a safety harness is used, and reservations are required.

For little jumpers (ages 5 & under) there’s a jump house.While safety at the House of Air is encouraged, it is not guaranteed. You can see why they have you sign a liability waiver before allowing your child to jump. Check out their safety video here.

They also offer birthday party packages which allow you to jump for up to 2 hours and use the private room for food.

Being so close to the bay, there are numerous choices for beach parties. Here are just some of the many locations:

No matter how cold it is, kids always seem to like pool parties. Here are some facilities that rent out their pools.

Boys especially love paintball as it mixes warfare with messy paint and cool equipment. What more could you ask for?

Some things to think about: Some parents may have an issue with the whole concept of shooting. The cost of parties gets a bit expensive. Keep in mind that you not only need to rent the equipment, but the cost of the ammo (paintballs) can run up a pretty hefty tab. Do your research before booking. Make sure you tell the participants to “dress for mess” and bring an extra pair of shoes. I’ve been told by an experienced mom that some paint pellets can be oily…you really don’t want that all over your car!

Holding a video gaming party has never been so easy. Just book your party and the gaming truck will come to you!

Accommodating up to 24 participants Games 2 U offers party goers a choice from a variety of game systems including PS3, Xbox and Wii. There are even screens set up on the exterior of the truck for Wii games.

What to think about: While the game-playing will be the main attraction, you’ll still need to have a place to serve the food. Some kids might have a strong preference for what system they play on (i.e., PS3), so the other systems may not be very popular. Discuss the game options with the company as some parents may not allow their children to play games with a “Teen” or “Mature” rating.

Six Flags Marine World – Vallejo
Get out early and spend the entire day at Six Flags where the kids play games, ride roller coasters, watch whales and run wild. Ticket prices vary depending upon the season (the highest price is during the summer months, of course). If you search online you can often find a discount offer.

What to think about: You cannot bring your own food so when planning for a group you’ll need to factor in the food price and parking. It can also get extremely hot during the summer so remember to bring lots of sunscreen.

Spend the day at Angel Island. You can hike, bike or take a tour. You can even rent segways and take them around the island. Check out the historical baseball field or hang out on the small beach. There’s a small barbeque area as well. The kids will even have fun getting there on the ferry!

Gentlemen and women start your engines. Even big kids love go karts! Some companies require children to take a Jr. driving class before they can use the race tracks. Also, they all have minimum height requirements and require a signed liability waiver so make sure you get the details!

Weather permitting, you can have a party at the park. Make sure you check with the Parks and Rec department of the city to see if you are required to pay a fee, or get a permit.

Games to play: Capture the flag, nerf gun wars (make sure you pick up all the “ammo” at the end of the game), flag football, kickball.

For the adventurous type rent a Humungous Hamster ball. Imagine getting inside of a giant inflatable ball and bouncing and rolling all the way down a hill! That’s what you’ll be able to do by renting a giant hamster ball.

Sporting Event. Take the kids to a sporting event. It doesn’t have to be a professional team. It’s just as fun to watch college level games. Here are some links:

Be creative. I rented the Strawberry Recreation gym and had a massive dodge ball party for my niece’s birthday.

Many of these organizations offer seasonal opportunities, but some are year round. If you know of any organizations to be added to this list, please conmment! Thanks.

Conservation Corps North Bay (age varies per project) Originally in existence as the Marin Conservation Corps, this organization goal is to harness the energy of youth to preserve and protect the environment so that the entire community profits.

Exploratorium High School Explainers (high school kids ages 15-18) As one of the Mediated Experience departments within the Exploratorium, the High School ExplainerProgram offers a temporary work-based educational enrichment program for high school age students.Explainers work with visitors and hands-on exhibits in a facilitator type program while learning in a science museum setting.

Hands on Bay Area (Ages Vary) This organization links willing volunteers to various projects based on age parameters. There is a registration fee for adults and children.

Marin County Youth Commission (Age 12 & up) Marin County Youth Commission is an official advisory commission to the Marin County Board of Supervisors. With 20 seats for young people who The commissioners act as a political voice for the youth for the youth of Marin.

Marin County Youth Health Advisory Commission( Age 13 & up) The MYHAC is a diverse group of young people from all over the County. MYHAC members implement community action projects aimed at promoting the health and well being of young people. MYHAC has done work with surveys in high schools and liquor stores, signage in parks, and initiated changes in policies in various communities.

Marin County Youth Leadership Institute (Age 8th grade and up) This organization empowers the youth in Marin to take action and make change for the better. Check out their blog here.

Marin Headlands Institute TEEM (Teen Environmental Educational Mentorship) Teen Environmental Education Mentorship (TEEM) is a paid environmental education internship and leadership program for San Francisco and Marin high school students. TEEM interns gain first-hand knowledge about the field of environmental education through field trips, one-on-one mentorships with our professional educators, and by leading interactive activities with our elementary school participants.

Marin Search and Rescue (a division of the sheriff’s office) Age 14 & up. Made up of about 50% adults and 50% youth, this division of the sheriff’s office not only searches for people in the wilderness and urban settings, but also deals with natural disasters and pretty much anything which involves injured or missing people.

Marine Mammal Center Youth Volunteers, Sausalito Ages 14 – 17. This experience allows students to work alongside adults, develop interpersonal skills, and observe a variety of marine science related careers and gives them the opportunity to be involved in marine mammal conservation.

Milo Marin, 2060 4th Street, San Rafael. Foster a dog or cat! The Milo Foundation needs both long term and short term foster homes for their many animals. Check out their website for more information.

Mountain Play Volunteers (10 & up). Positions vary. Volunteers who are 13 years or younger must be accompanied by an adult. Seasonal

NorthBayInterns.com Locate internship possibilities and research local employers, plus learn more about how intern programs work and how they enhance academic and career development.

The Stream Team, Point Reyes National Seashore. The Stream Team volunteer assists park staff in improving fish habitat for federally listed coho salmon and steelhead trout through streamside restoration.

Teens Turning Green is a Teens Turning Green is a student led movement devoted to education and advocacy around environmentally and socially responsible choices for individuals, schools, and communities. We seek to promote global sustainability by identifying and eliminating toxic exposures that permeate our lives and threaten public and environmental health. To start a chapter in your area, click here!

Teen Advisory Group (TAG) Novato Libary, 1720 Novato Blvd. Middle School and High School Teens. Help the Novato Library create interesting teen programs. Join our monthly Teen Advisory Group (TAG), have fun, and earn community service hours! Refreshments will be provided.Meetings are held on the second Wednesdays 3:30-4:30pm.Webstar Computer Assistants at the Marin City Library. Your teen can get paid for helping others with computers! Watch this video.

Wildcare Student Volunteers (Ages 12-17) Summer Program. 76 Albert Park Lane, San Rafael. Wildcare offers hands on experience to educate and inform students of the plight of wildlife and our environemnt. They see first hand the results of humans’ dire’t and indirect influence on Marin’s native wildlife, both negative and positive.l Working at WildCare empowers students with their ability to affect change.

If your child is accepted as a peer juror, she/he will hear juvenile cases and help serve as determine sentences of other juveniles. Youth Court is designed to educate youth about the juvenile justice system. The Marin YMCA administers Youth Court, in collaboration with the Court, District Attorney’s Office, Office of the Public Defender, Probation Department, Marin County Bar Association and the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Commission. Read this article from SFGate http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/04/14/DDLU1IG63I.DTL

Youth Service Challenge. The Youth Service Challenge is all about challenging America’s youth (college age and below) to come up with great BIG, meaningful community service projects. Do great work in the community, register your service project, and compete for national and local prizes. Your child can enter any activity he or she ran or participated in between Oct. 1, 2010 – April 15, 2011. Register by April 17, 2011.

American Red Cross Lifeguard Training, Terra Linda Community Center, 670 Del Ganado Rd., San Rafael (415) 385-3344 Saturdays 3/5 – 3/26, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (Age 15 years old by the end of the course and must also successfully complete various swimming skills). This course teaches the skills and knowledge needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies. The course content and activities prepare candidates to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and how to prevent drowning and injuries.

Mill Valley Parks & Rec Summer Camp Counselors in Training (Ages 13 – 15) CITs get work experience by assisting camp staff. Interview required.

Friday, May 17

Saturday May 18

Sunday, May 19

Thursday May, 23

Friday May 25, Full Moon, Penumbral Lunar Eclipse

Sunday, May 26

Monday, May 27, Memorial Day

Tuesday, May 28

Thursday, May 30

Friday, May 31