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Things to Do: Seasonal Happenings
• Celebrate Lunar New Year in San Diego
• How to Observe Black History Month with Your Family
Parenting
• How to Raise Kids to Be Allies
For the Kids: Crafts for Kids
• Underground Railroad Quilt Squares
• Explore Black History by Making a Story Collage
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Circus Vargas proudly unveils its dynamic, new and highly anticipated 2026 show, Masquerade! Step into a world of wonder as mystery meets mastery under the Big Top, where every act pushes the limits and every moment captivates and sparks your family’s imagination. Catch the spellbinding journey of pure artistry and family fun, starting Feb. 20 in San Diego County. Enter for your chance to win a 4-pack of tickets to Circus Vargas. Contest ends Feb. 17, 2026.
Stay the course this February with everbowl, home to craveable superfood bowls, smoothies, and toasts designed as fuel for movement for your active lifestyle. everbowl offers better-for-you food that actually tastes amazing, making it simple and satisfying to power your goals. Enter for your chance to win a $50 gift card to everbowl. Contest ends Feb. 26, 2026.
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Fun-Filled February
February is filled with heart-themed celebrations. From Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month to Great American Pie (and National Cherry) Month and Lunar New Year, there is no shortage of reasons to celebrate. This month also brings the Winter Olympics, hosted across Lombardy and Northeast Italy in Milan and Cortina, Presidents’ Day and the Super Bowl. February truly has something for everyone. Use the Winter Olympics (Feb. 6–22) as an opportunity to explore Milanese cuisine, which has distinct regional flavors featuring more risotto and polenta than pasta.
Hockey is one of the Olympic sports, and as someone who has attended a few San Diego Gulls games, I can appreciate the perspective of being a spectator and the unique experience of being the parent of a youth athlete. Writer Katy Clark shares what it’s like to support kids from the stands, especially through the eyes of a mom. If you’re the parent of an athletic child, you’ll relate to and enjoy reading the article.
We explore how STEM skills benefit every child, regardless of their interests or learning styles. It’s important for parents to understand the value of enrolling children in STEM programs and how they can support long-term growth and development.
Heart health is essential—not just for older adults, but for children and teens as well. Early heart screenings can identify hidden conditions, making proactive care an important step for youth.
Valentine’s Day is a special occasion for parents and kids. If you have tweens eager to host a party, we offer plenty of guidance on how to manage it successfully. Many of the ideas can be adapted for a fun family celebration.
Thank you for being loyal readers and valued advertisers of San Diego Family. We truly appreciate your support and love hearing from those who recognize the care we put into sharing quality articles and trusted resources through our advertisers. We hope to see you at our Family Fun Fest on Feb. 22!
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Our San Diego Families
Thank you to everyone who responded to our request for ways that local families celebrate Lunar New Year. Here is what they shared.
Below: Kayden (11) and Kaylee (5) of Carmel Mountain Ranch. The Sha Family celebrates Lunar New Year with red decorations, words of abundance and red packets (“hongbao”) for children for good luck.
“We enjoy watching vibrant lion dances, making the celebration a meaningful and joyful time for family, tradition and good fortune,” says mom Alicia. “This year is extra special because Kayden was born in the Year of the Horse, and he turns 12 this year!”
Above: Christian (8), Rylie (6) and Noah (2) of Poway. The Nguyen Family is Vietnamese American; they celebrate Lunar New Year not only for prosperity, but because it is filled with cultural values and traditions.
“Ushering in the new year is a 10-day experience, but here in the U.S., Lunar New Year Eve and the following three days are the most celebrated,” says mom Jenn. “This year we are heading to Orange County to attend temple to pray, visit grandparents and other family, play games, pass out red envelopes, eat traditional foods, and share wishes for each other in the new year.”
Below: Andrew and Mimi Chain of Poway, along with sons Daniel (9) and Gilbert (5), gather with family for Têt, Vietnamese New Year. They dress up in custom-made Vietnamese gowns and visit temple. They also watch the lion dance, feeding it $1 bills for good luck in the new year.
Short & Sweet
Attention 12th Grade Student-Athletes
The Miracle League of San Diego’s accessible baseball field in San Dieguito County Park recently got a major upgrade and is now known as Padres Park (in partnership with the San Diego Padres). Opening Day is March 7. Visit for information on how to join or support a local team. www.miracleleagueofsandiego.org
If you attend high school in California and have overcome personal adversity, there’s an opportunity to turn your comeback story into a college scholarship! CalHOPE Courage Award Scholarships celebrate students who turn setbacks into success. Scholarships are awarded monthly through June. Learn more and apply at www.calhopecourageawardscholarship.org.
There’s Still Time to Nominate an Outstanding Teacher
Don’t forget that SDCCU’s Classroom Heroes program honors one San Diego County educator each month through May. Winners receive a $500 Visa gift card, Classroom Hero award and recognition on CBS 8 and The CW. One grand prize winner will also be chosen. The community is encouraged to nominate deserving teachers at sdccu.com/classroomheroes.
Milano Cortina 2026
Don’t miss the Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy from Feb. 6–22. Watch elite athletes and cheer on Team USA as they compete in figure skating, snowboarding, hockey, skiing, luge and more. Find the full schedule at www.olympics.com/en/milanocortina-2026/schedule/overview.
SAN DIEGO FAMILY FUN FEST
Editor’s Picks
Lisa Gipson
Whether you’re looking for a fun way to teach counting, a heartwarming read-aloud for Valentine’s Day or a picture book for the 100 th day of school, I Love You 100: A Counting Book Full of Love by New York Times Bestselling Author Danica McKellar will do the trick. Illustrated by Josée Masse.
Created for ages 4–8, Little Kids
First Encyclopedia of Almost Everything by National Geographic Kids features hundreds of engaging photos and illustrations, kid-friendly facts and age-appropriate text about topics that inquisitive kids love! Learn about bugs, volcanoes, planets, tornadoes, mammals, mummies, reptiles, rockets, the human body and more.
JOIN US for San Diego Family Fun Fest on Sunday, Feb. 22 from 10 am to 1 pm. This awesome event is packed with free, fun activities for kids and helpful information for parents. Get all the details on page 31.
Photo credit: Nick Brumbach
Jennifer Garcia
Matters of the Heart
10 healthy habits for the whole family
By the time kids turn 15 years old, their heart will have beaten approximately half-a-billion times and circulated nearly 11 million gallons of blood. During teenage years, the heart grows as much as 30–40 percent. Taking care of this vital organ is important for all ages, not just adults.
February is American Heart Month which often sparks discussions about cardiovascular health, especially for older adults. While the risk of heart disease increases with age, it’s also influenced by genetics, weight, gender and more. With many healthy (and unhealthy) habits forming in childhood, family lifestyle choices made now can have an impact that spans decades.
“Children learn far more from what we do than from what we say,” says Allie George, MD, FAAP at Coast Pediatrics in 4S Ranch. “The best way to teach heart health is to model it—in how we move, how we manage stress and how we eat.”
To help, we’ve compiled 10 heart-healthy habits that benefit cardiovascular health. Consider adopting these habits into your family’s regular routine.
1 Eat Right
It’s no secret that balanced nutrition contributes to cardiovascular health. The focus shouldn’t be cutting calories, skipping meals or avoiding certain macronutrients. Instead, consume fewer processed foods and more whole foods. Fiber and protein are especially important, as is eating regular meals to maintain blood sugar levels. Large meals require additional cardiovascular effort to digest, which is why people feel sluggish after overeating.
2 Hydrate
When dehydrated, blood volume drops, making the heart work harder to pump thickened blood. This causes heart rates to increase, and this strain to the cardiovascular system can even mimic signs of a heart attack. Lack of electrolytes can stress the heart further by disrupting minerals essential for healthy function.
Start each day with fluids to rehydrate after sleep and focus on consistent intake throughout the day rather than large amounts at a time.
3 Stay Active
Swimming, biking, hiking and random family dance parties are excellent ways to get blood pumping. The best
exercises are the ones your family enjoy and continue to do.
Below are local family-friendly trails for walking or biking; most have bike rental options nearby:
• Carlsbad Coastal Rail Trail
• Solana Beach Coastal Rail Trail
• San Diego River Trail (a network of paths stretching from Point Loma to Santee)
• Mission Bay Trail
• Linear Park (Downtown)
• Lake Miramar (Scripps Ranch)
• Lake Murray (La Mesa)
• Santee Lakes (Santee)
• Walker Preserve Trail (Santee to Lakeside)
Family fun runs are also a great way to engage the heart muscle. For a list of upcoming events, visit www.sandiegofamily.com/resources/ family-health-and-home/family-funruns-and-5ks-in-san-diego-county.
4 Prioritize Sleep
“Sleep is often overlooked but plays a huge role in cardiovascular health,” says Dr. George. “Children and teens who consistently get too little sleep are more likely to develop high blood pressure, excess weight and insulin resistance— all early risk factors for heart disease.”
According to Dr. George, even 40 to 60 extra minutes of sleep per night is beneficial for cardiovascular health.
5 Reinforce Relationships
In his book Cardio Kids: Raising HeartHealthy Children for Life, author Leo Heusaff states that social isolation has cardiovascular effects similar to smoking and obesity. Laughter, quality friendships and strong family relationships have the opposite effect, as they are shown to improve heart health.
Social isolation has cardiovascular effects similar to smoking and obesity.
6 Encourage Discussion
Family history is essential in detecting genetic and structural problems, so it is important to discuss. It’s also important to encourage honesty and body awareness in young athletes, avoiding any pressure to “play through” illness or injury.
“Many young athletes downplay symptoms because they fear losing playing time or disappointing teammates,” says Rhina Paredes, co-founder of The Eric Paredes Save a Life Foundation (EPSALF), a local organization that seeks to prevent cardiac arrest in San Diego youth through awareness, education, free screenings and emergency preparedness.
7 Be Proactive
According to Rady Children’s Hospital Cardiothoracic ICU Medical Director Dr. Rohit Rao, MD, MBA, every minute spent prior to CPR and AED deployment after a cardiac event decreases the chance of survival by 10 percent. The average 9-1-1 response time is 5–12 minutes.
Practice secondary prevention by taking a family-friendly CPR/AED class together to ensure everyone knows the plan in case of emergencies.
echocardiograms. EPSALF offers them for free to youth and young adults ages 12–25.
“The [EPSALF] has screened more than 43,000 youth, detecting cardiac risk in 1 in 300 participants,” says Paredes. “This is especially valuable because many young people with hidden heart conditions may not show obvious symptoms until a tragic event.”
The next screening event (open to the public) is Feb. 7 at Castle Park High School in Chula Vista. There is also a screening event at Grossmont High School in El Cajon in April. Register, learn more and find other events at www.epsavealife.org/get-screened.
9 Engage Your Community
Encourage your child’s school, athletic program and local community center to adopt a cardiac emergency response plan, such as Project ADAM, which provides school campuses and community sites with training and
10 Know the Warning Signs
Chest pain, tightness or pressure, fainting or near-fainting, unexplained shortness of breath, heart palpitations, dizziness, and unexplained fatigue are all symptoms that warrant evaluation. v
Resources
The Eric Paredes Save a Life Foundation www.epsavealife.org
Project Adam www.projectadam.com/Adam
Parent Heart Watch www.parentheartwatch.org
American Heart Association www.heart.org
Jennifer Garcia is an award-winning photographer, writer and graphic designer in East County San Diego. Her
8 Get Screened
Regular doctor checkups are important, but they often don’t include ECGs or
Janeen Lewis
Everyday Moments that Count Activities to build preschool math skills
Parents cheer when children sing the alphabet song for the first time or recite bedtime stories from memory because they understand how vital reading is to cognitive functions and future school success. But here’s a lesser-known fact: Research shows that early math ability is just as strong a predictor of academic support as reading. Meaning, math activities make a big impact on preschool brains.
Fortunately, preschool math is everywhere young children live and play. Whether it’s counting snack crackers, sorting socks or identifying numbers, here are fun ways to engage little learners in math activities during everyday moments.
Fun with Food
Shape sandwiches, fruit, cheese and pancakes with cookie cutters. Talk
about the natural shapes of vegetables and other foods. For instance, point out that pizzas, bagels and cucumber slices are circles. Many crackers are squares, rectangles or triangles. Explore what shapes can be made by combining foods. Teach children patterns by putting different colored berries in a row. Encourage them to make their own patterns.
Laundry Lessons
Have preschoolers help sort laundry by colors, family members or type of clothing (pants, skirts or shirts). When the laundry is done, have them match all the socks. If there are socks left over, introduce the concept of even and odd: Matches make even numbers; missing socks create odd numbers.
On a Roll
Card and dice games teach children how to subitize (instantly recognize small sets of numbers without counting). An example of subitizing is knowing a number when rolling dice without counting dots. This is an important skill that kids need when they start to add and subtract. Play card games like Crazy Eights, Old Maid and Go Fish. Great dice games include Beat That!, Roll and Cover, and One and Done.
Not Just Fun and Games
Playing Chutes and Ladders for what seems like the millionth time may not sound fun to parents, but it’s fun for kids—and they develop number recognition and counting skills (forward and backward) while playing. Other preschool-level board games that support math skills are Hi Ho! Cherry-O and Feed the Woozle.
Math Through Movement
Preschoolers have lots of energy, and physical exercise is a good way to practice counting and learn directional vocabulary. Have little ones count jumping jacks, jump rope hops or toe touches. Play hopscotch and count numbers as they jump. Learning words like on, over, before, between, right, left, front and back is important, too. As kids exercise and play, have them move according to those words.
Math Melodies
Silly songs and sayings are not only fun, but they help kids commit concepts to memory. Sing math songs in the car, while doing chores or just playing around. Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed, The Ants Go Marching, and One, Two, Buckle My Shoe are
good examples of catchy rhyming songs that teach counting. Numberock is a collection of fun music videos for preschoolers and elementary students.
Not math related, but find eight really fun rhyming songs about doing chores at www.sandiegofamily.com/ parenting/preschooler/silly-songs-toget-chores-done.
Block Power
Stacking blocks and building with LEGOs are powerful ways to build early math skills such as counting, measurement, pattern recognition and critical thinking skills that promote STEM. Check your local library, Snapology and First LEGO League Explore for programs that start as young as age 4.
Market Math
The grocery store is full of opportunities to practice math concepts. While in the produce department, teach kids to weigh produce without going over a certain
number of pounds. Compare price tags and sales, count items needed and identify foods by shape. Kids who shop with parents regularly pick up additional skills as they grow. A lot of these activities can be done at local farmers markets as well.
Bubble Bath Math
Children often end each day in the bathtub, another place for learning. Have preschoolers practice ordering and counting foam numerals that stick to tub walls. Call out a number and have kids quickly identify the correct foam numeral. Sort bath toys by color, shape or size. Remove toys from the bath and ask how many toys are left.
Math for preschoolers is foundational, but it can also be fun. Try some of these ideas and pave the way to future successes in school and beyond. v
2026 SDJT Spring Camp Family Mag copy.pdf 1 1/8/26 4:53 PM
Janeen Lewis is a mom, teacher and writer. She loves to see young learners get excited about math.
The STEM Boost
Benefits for all learning styles
Most parents don’t just want their kids to get good grades; they want them to develop marketable life skills, like curiosity, confidence and competence. Not every child dreams of becoming an engineer or software developer, but early exposure to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) can spark something more important than career ambition. Early STEM education helps shape the way kids think. When children code a game, build a robot or experiment with circuits, they’re not just learning how technology works, they’re building a toolkit for solving problems, staying persistent and turning curiosity into action.
Coding: A Form of Literacy
To someone who doesn’t know, coding looks like typing strange commands onto a screen. But behind the blinking cursor, there’s something much bigger happening. “Coding is a basic form of literacy and language that is as important as reading and writing today,” says Dr. Pamela Rutledge, director of the Media Psychology Research Center.
Kids who develop STEM skills learn important strategies such as planning, thinking step by step, and trying again when things don’t work the first (or fifth) time. They build patience and a healthy relationship with failure.
In a world that rewards speed and perfection, that kind of persistence and resilience is rare.
Improvement in Other Subjects
According to the University of Minnesota, STEM helps foster four 21st-century learning skills considered essential for students in the Information Age. They’re known as the Four Cs: communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity. Specialists say teachers and caregivers should introduce the Four Cs early so they’re built upon throughout a child’s lifetime.
Engaging with science and technology helps improve learning across a range of subjects. Research
shows that students who are involved with STEM early improve abilities in other academic and cognitive areas, including literacy, language learning, math and executive functioning.
A Confidence Booster
Experts say that kids who feel capable in STEM are more likely to approach unfamiliar challenges with curiosity instead of fear.
Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code, believes that STEM learning builds courage. “We practice failure,” she says. “We get them to exercise confidence by publicly speaking their ideas, raising their hands high, and acknowledging when they don’t know the answer. Coding teaches bravery.”
When kids learn to build things or solve problems independently, they gain confidence that can’t be taught with flashcards or by receiving good grades. It is earned by doing—through trying, failing and trying again.
STEM provides tools to explore the world and build life skills. When kids learn to troubleshoot, collaborate and ask better questions, they learn how to take initiative and to adjust when answers don’t come easily. Those are skills worth having, even if they never write another line of code in the years ahead.
Appropriate for Every Learning Style
Some parents worry that their child might not be “techy” enough, but STEM learning isn’t just for kids who love math, science or computers. It’s for artists, daydreamers and builders. A child who loves drawing might enjoy coding animations. A child who loves stories might light up while building a digital choose-your-own adventure. And a child who’s always in motion? Robotics might be a fantastic fit.
Introduce it Early
Many parents assume they have to wait until middle school or beyond
What to Look for in a Great STEM Program
The best programs mix play with purpose in an environment where kids are encouraged to ask questions, make mistakes and try again. Before registering, here are questions to ask:
• Is the program hands-on? Kids learn best by doing. Look for classes where kids build, code, experiment or tinker.
• Do kids solve actual problems? The best programs don’t just teach tools. They pose challenges. Can kids design a bridge that holds weight? Code a game? Test a solution and revise it?
• Does it welcome all learners? Strong STEM programs make room for kids with different strengths, learning styles and interests.
• Are there opportunities to lead and collaborate? STEM mirrors the real world. Kids should learn how to work in teams, share ideas and build confidence by presenting to or teaching others.
• Is creativity encouraged? STEM isn’t just logic; It’s also about imagination. Programs should let kids design their own projects or add personal flair to their work.
• Are instructors engaging and experienced? Find programs with enthusiastic, trained teachers who know how to support curious, energetic kids.
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Discover the awe of beneathliving the sea.
Dive into Meditation Ocean: Aquarius Reef Base, an immersive art installation by the Meditation Ocean Constellation.
• Step inside an underwater research station
• See where art and science meet underwater
• Explore life on a coral reef
You Might Be a Hockey Mom if ...
I never thought I would become a hockey mom. I spent my childhood in a warm climate, playing outside and riding a bike. No NHL team in sight. Yet, here we are. Both my son and daughter play ice hockey. Their dad got them started early and they absolutely love the sport! And because they love ice hockey, I now love it, too.
As our family embraces the game, I have noticed certain characteristics and habits I’ve developed that separate me from other parents. Here’s my list of reasons why you might be an ice hockey mom. If you know, you know.
Katy M. Clark
You might be an ice hockey mom if…
You carry a blanket at all times. There’s at least one in the trunk and back seat, ready to stave off chilly ice rink temperatures.
You are proficient in hockey slang, sprinkling words like “biscuit,”
“five-hole” and “celly” throughout conversations. You also know what “bar down” and “two and ten” mean.
You know really, really cold ice rinks from just plain cold ice rinks. Isn’t it odd that not all rinks are the same level of freezing? Good thing you always have that blanket in your car!
Your car basically drives itself to the rink. Yep, you’ve driven your kids back and forth so many times that your vehicle could easily navigate the route itself. In fact, self-driving cars were probably inspired by parents with kids in sports.
You know someone who owns a cowbell. There’s at least one parent on every team that rings it with gusto when cheering for the team. Maybe it’s you.
You refer to your child by their birth year or age division. You might say, “Oh, he’s a 2016” or “My daughter is on 10U Squirts.”
You think the other team’s parents are crazy. Because let’s face it—those parents ringing their cowbells and complaining about every call are crazy.
You’d buy a new ice hockey stick for your child before you’d buy a new outfit. And it probably doesn’t bother you one bit.
You’ve spent entire weekends sitting in ice rinks. Whether you’re watching your kids play in a tournament or watching league games on Saturdays and Sundays, you get nothing done most weekends.
Where San Diego Kids Play Hockey
Little Ducks (multiple locations) Ages 4–12
www.learntoplay.nhl.com/locations/ducks/
Piranhas Hockey Academy (UTC Ice Sports Center) Ages 5+
www.utcice.com/hockey/beginners-hockey-academ
San Diego Ice Arena Youth Hockey (Mira Mesa) Ages 4+
www.sdice.com/hockey
Youth Hockey at the Kroc (Rolando) Ages 3 –12
https://sd.kroccenter.org/kroc-san-diego/hockey
You’ve spent gobs of money on hockey equipment, tournament fees and hotels. Oh, let’s not forget arcade claw machines, vending machines and snack bars to keep younger siblings entertained. Once they’re old enough, they’ll be able to join their own hockey team so you can spend hundreds of dollars on their ice fees and tournaments. At least you’ll already have equipment to pass down.
Parents of kids in all team sports might relate to these…
• You think the refs are crazy (even while you’re demonstrating good sportsmanship) because every time they call a penalty against your child or team, it wasn’t really a penalty. And what about all the actual penalties they missed for the other team?
• You know all the kids’ nicknames on the team, but you can’t remember their parents’ names. “There’s Jame-O and his parents,” you say sheepishly because you’ve sat next to Jame-O’s parents for 13 games this season and have no idea what their names are.
You’re definitely a hockey mom if you love watching your child play hockey for hours on end. I might never have guessed that I’d grow up to be a hockey mom, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. v
Katy M. Clark is a freelance writer and hockey mom of two.
Skyhawks Sports: Field Hockey (Tierrasanta and Clairemont) Grades 6-8
www.skyhawks.com/#programs
Watch Team USA compete on the ice in the Winter Olympics! Flip to Short & Sweet on p. 12 for details.
Deaflympics
A global stage for deaf and hard of
hearing elite athletes
The Deaflympics—often described as “Olympics for Deaf People”—is an international multi-sport competition for Deaf and Hard of Hearing elite athletes. It is distinct from the Paralympics, which serves athletes experiencing a range of physical and intellectual disabilities but does not offer a category for Deaf or Hard of Hearing competitors.
In November 2025, Tokyo hosted the 25th Summer Deaflympics, marking a century since the games were first held. Nearly 3,000 athletes from 81 nations took the global stage, vying for medals in 21 traditional sports including basketball, athletics (track & field), cycling, volleyball and swimming.
We caught up with two local athletes who competed in the Tokyo Deaflympics. Here’s what they had to say about the experience, along with the joys (and challenges) of competing as Deaf athletes.
Zain grew up in Rancho Peñasquitos, arriving relatively late to the sport of volleyball. He didn’t start playing until high school, when he joined the Seaside Volleyball Club in 4S Ranch and Mt. Carmel High School’s team. Today, Zain plays club volleyball at Rochester Institute of Technology while pursuing a degree in Exercise Science. He joined the USA Deaf Men’s Volleyball team in 2023.
“The biggest, and really only, challenge that I’ve experienced as a Deaf athlete playing volleyball is hearing other people call for the ball,” says Zain. “Volleyball is a sport that uses a lot of verbal communication because if two people go for the same ball, they could collide and cause injuries.”
To adapt, Zain took inspiration from David Smith, a Deaf athlete on the USA hearing Olympic team. They have a rule that when David calls for the ball, everyone else backs away. Using a similar strategy has allowed Zain to play more aggressively, further improving his skills.
“Deafness does not limit athletic ability—it simply requires different approaches,” observes Cora Shahid, Zain’s mom.
“I was super excited to go to Tokyo to experience my first Deaflympics, play high-level volleyball and explore Japanese culture,” Zain shares. “The workers and volunteers for the Deaflympics were extremely nice and welcoming, and the food was amazing.”
A big congratulations to the USA Deaf
who placed fourth in Tokyo. Zain can’t wait to return to the next games and go for gold!
USA Deaf Sports is entirely self-funded, with athletes covering their own travel and lodging costs. To support the USA Deaf Volleyball team, please visit www.usadeafvolleyball.com.
Photo courtesy of Cora Shahid
Photo credit: Naomi Gipson
Photo courtesy of Cora Shahid
Volleyball team,
Meet Zain Shahid (21), USA Deaf Men’s Volleyball Team
Introducing Quinn Cannon (13), USA Deaf Swim Team
Quinn, the youngest member of Team USA Deaf Swimming, has competed with Rancho San Dieguito (RSD) Swim Club in Solana Beach since age 6.
While Quinn has participated in other sports through the years, team sports have often presented challenges. In water polo, for example, Quinn struggles with coach instructions while in the water and is unable to hear whistles during games.
Swimming, however, has been different. “I don’t feel like my hearing loss impacts swimming as it does in other sports,” Quinn explains. “My lane-mates happily relay the sets we are doing and my coaches always visually show me the sets before we get started. During meets, I have a tapper who acts as my ears when the horn blows to signal the start of a race.”
In Tokyo, Quinn competed in eight events, including freestyle, backstroke, individual medley and relay races. She qualified for finals in the 1500M Freestyle, placing eighth overall, and also brought home a bronze medal as part of the 4x200M Freestyle Relay. (Well done!)
Quinn shares that before the Deaflympics, “I was most looking forward to meeting my teammates and coaches and competing with and against swimmers with hearing loss,
as I am usually the only Deaf swimmer at my local swim competitions.”
Quinn’s mom, Kelsey Cannon, reflects on the Deaflympics experience: “It was really amazing for her to be around such hard-working and talented athletes. It gave Quinn a little glimpse of what her future could possibly look like if she keeps working hard and enjoying the ride.”
Like the Olympics and Paralympics, the Deaflympics occur every four years. Quinn hopes to continue developing her skills and return to represent Team USA Deaf Swimming at the 2029 Summer Deaflympics in Athens, Greece.
To support USA Deaf Swimming, go to www.gomotionapp.com/team/ usds/page/team-usa.
More to Know About Deaf Sports
To qualify for the Deaflympics, athletes must have a hearing loss of at least 55 dB in their better ear and meet other requirements for participation, including records and ranking. To ensure fair competition, hearing aids, cochlear implants and other adaptive devices are not allowed during events. Auditory cues are replaced with visual signals.
“USA Deaf Sports welcomes athletes who use ASL, spoken language, technology or no technology at all, as long as they meet the audiological criteria,” says Cora, who, along with supporting Zain’s athletics, serves as the Executive Director of California Hands & Voices, an organization supporting families with children who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
“Sports have created a sense of belonging, purpose and joy that extends far beyond the game,” Cora says. She encourages parents of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children to explore athletic opportunities through USA Deaf Sports at www.usdeafsports.net.
For more information about the Deaflympics, visit www.deaflympics.com.
Lisa Pawlak is an award-winning contributing writer who lives in Encinitas with her family.
Find resources for people of all disabilities, including sports and recreation programs, in the newest edition of Flourishing Families in March, or visit www.SNRFSD.org.
Photo courtesy of Kelsey Cannon
Sports Psychology and Mental Performance representatives cheering on athletes.
Photo credit: Naomi Gipson
Photo courtesy of Kelsey Cannon
Black
Lunar New Year at SeaWorld
Celebrate the Year of the Horse with eight days of festive performances and vibrant décor. Feel the power of the taiko drummers, experience the excitement of the lion dance and pick up your red envelope. Feb. 1, 7–8 & 13–16. Included with admission. SeaWorld, Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworldsandiego.com
Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.
sunday | 1
San Diego Museum Month. Feb. 1–28. See pull-out on page 26 for details.
FREE Spreckels Organ Society Concerts. Sundays, 2–3 pm. Pavilion-Pan American Pl., Balboa Park. www.spreckelsorgan.org
LEGOLAND $39 Kids’ Tickets. Through Mar. 4 with paid adult. One LEGOLAND Dr. www.legoland.com
“The Simon & Garfunkel Story.” Using original film footage and featuring a live band performing “Mrs. Robinson,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and more. 2 & 7:30 pm. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.broadwaysd.com
SeaWorld Fun Card for Teachers. FREE park admission to all certified K–12 classroom teachers in So Cal throughout 2026. Enter your teacher ID to sign up. Register by Feb. 15. Parking not included. Details: www.seaworldsandiego.com/ teacher
Whale & Dolphin Watching. Search for gray whales, dolphins, sea lions and more. Fri.–Mon., through April 12. 9:30 am–1 pm. From $63. Pier Two, 970 N. Harbor Dr. www.cityexperiences.com
Farmers Insurance Open. The PGA Tour comes to San Diego. Torrey Pines Golf Course, La Jolla. Tickets: www.farmersinsuranceopen.com
San Diego Sockers. Watch our indoor soccer team. Today, Feb. 7, 15 & 27. Frontwave Arena, 3475 Hero Dr., Oceanside. www.frontwavearena.com
Photo courtesy of Seaworld
Still looking for last month’s events? Check out the digital edition of our January issue at SanDiegoFamily.com
San Diego Zoo Safari Park Seniors FREE Guests ages 65 and older get free admission Feb. 1–28. Parking not included. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido. www.sdzsafaripark.org/seniors-free
LEGO Ninjago Weekends. Lloyd’s Elemental Challenge, March of the Dragon and more. Weekends through Feb. 16. Legoland, One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. www.legoland.com
The Art of Banksy Without Limits. Explore 200 of the artist’s works, such as his original art, prints, photos, sculptures and more. Through April 19. Starting at $28. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.artofbanksyus.com
SETSUBUN. Banish the evil and welcome spring with good fortune while making oni masks and a bean tossing event. 10 am–4 pm. $14–$16. Japanese Friendship Garden, Balboa Park. www.niwa.org
San Diego International Jewish Film Festival. Through Feb. 4. Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, Jacobs Family Campus, 4126 Executive Dr., La Jolla. Schedule: www.lfjcc.org
FREE First Sundays Art for All. Fun hands-on art-making experience. 12–2 pm. Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way. www.oma-online.org
San Diego Restaurant Week. More than 100 restaurants across San Diego offer specially curated two-course lunches and three-course dinners starting at just $30. Details: www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com
monday | 2
Groundhog Day
Story Time with Seadragons. Enjoy an enchanting storybook tale about ocean creatures from around the world. Mon., Wed., & Fri.; 9:30–9:40 am. Included with admission. $34.95–$39.95; under 3 free. Birch Aquarium at Scripps, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. www.aquarium.ucsd.edu
tuesday | 3
Residents FREE Days at Balboa Park. Park museums offer free admission Tuesdays on a rotating basis throughout the month to residents of the City and County of San Diego, and to active military personnel and their dependents. Schedule: www.balboapark.org
wednesday | 4
San Diego Gulls. Tonight, Feb. 14, 18 & 25. Starting at $34. Pechanga Arena, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. www.sandiegogulls.com
thursday | 5
UltraStar Cinemas Discount Thursdays. 50% off all movie tickets and popcorn. 7510 Hazard Center Dr. Showtimes: www.ultrastarmovies.com
friday | 6
Winter Olympic Games
Opening Ceremony in Milan, Italy. Watch elite athletes compete through Feb. 22. Get details at www.olympics.com/en/milano-cortina-2026.
FREE First Friday La Jolla Art Walk. Wander through galleries and pop-up artists scattered across La Jolla. 4–7 pm. www.lajollabythesea.com
San Diego Mojo. Women’s pro volleyball. Tonight & Feb. 9 & 22. Starting at $28. Viejas Arena, SDSU, 5500 Canyon Crest Rd. www.provolleyball.com
saturday | 7
FREE Youth Fishing Derby. Ages 15 & under. 6 am–12 noon. Lake Poway, 14644 Lake Poway Rd. Details: www.poway.org
Pony Rides. 10 am–2 pm. $14. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz
FREE Take Your Child to the Library Day. Thousands of libraries across the world celebrate by offering free, fun, fabulous activities for families. Find a participating library at www.takeyourchildtothelibrary.org.
Scripps Pier Walks. Scoop up plankton, dissect a squid and more. Today, tomorrow & Feb. 21–22. $40. For ages 9 & up. Scripps Pier, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. Reservations required: www.aquarium.ucsd.edu
Miniatures Show & Sale. Learn about and enjoy a vast array of dollhousesize miniatures. Today, 10 am–5 pm & tomorrow, 11 am–4 pm. $5–$10; under 8 free. Hahn University Ctr., USD, 5998 Alcala Park Way. www.sdminiatureshow.com
Randy Jones Run/Walk & Roll for Independence. Enjoy games, interactive activities and a live DJ to get the morning started before the race kicks off. Benefits Home of Guiding Hands. 8 am–2 pm. NTC Park at Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Rd. Register: www.guidinghands.org
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Children’s Museum of Discovery
San Diego Museum Month
Explore more than 70 museums, historic sites, gardens, zoo/aquariums and more offering 50 percent off admission. Feb. 1–28. For a list of participating museums visit www.sandiegomuseumcouncil.org/ specials/museum-month.
FREE Lunar New Year Lion Dance. Enjoy this wildly spectacular Lunar New Year Lion Dance performed by the GDPT Chanh Kien Lion Dancers. 3 pm. Linda Vista Library, 2160 Ulric St.
FREE Freedom Quilt Fabric Mosaic. Celebrate Black History Month and learn how to make a Freedom Quilt Mosaic with Toshwerks. 10 am. University Heights Library Children’s Area, 4193 Park Blvd. https://sandiego.librarymarket.com/event/celebrate-black-historyfreedom-quilt-fabric-mosaic-502714
Warrior Spirit 5K Run/Walk & Family Festival. Support families whose children are battling cancer, rare diseases and critical medical conditions by providing financial, emotional and resource support. 8 am–12 noon. Poinsettia Park, 6600 Hidden Valley Rd., Carlsbad. Register: www.mitchellthorp.org/5k-run-walk
San Diego Seals Lacrosse. Tonight & Feb. 21. Starting at $22. Pechanga Arena, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. www.sealslax.com
Roar & Snore Safari. Experience a sleepover and observe the nighttime activities of wildlife and morning wildlife presentations. Today, Feb. 15, 20, 21, 27 & 28. Starting at $165. Safari Park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido. www.sdzsafaripark.org
Mardi Gras at SeaWorld. Celebrate this New Orleans-style carnival event complete with live music, colorful costumes and more. Weekends through Feb. 22, & Feb. 13. Included with admission. SeaWorld, Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworldsandiego.com
sunday | 8
Super Bowl LX
Having a Super Bowl party with friends? Check out this funny list of “football terms” that only parents will understand: www.sandiegofamily.com/resources/san-diegoparty-planner/superbowl-lingo.
The Cardiff Kook Run. Kick off Super Bowl Sunday with an epic 5K/10K run on Hwy. 101. 101 E. D St., Encinitas. Register: www.thekookrun.com
FREE Lunar New Year Lion Dance. Celebrate the Year of the Horse in traditional style with an amazing Lion Dance performance. 10:30–11:30 am. The Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch Village Square, 13490 Pacific Highlands Ranch Pkwy. www.phrvillage.com
tuesday | 10
FREE Lunar New Year Celebration. Make a Year of the Horse necklace, a goldfish ornament and a windmill craft. 5 pm. Carmel Valley Library, 3919 Townsgate Dr.
thursday | 12
Valentine’s Day Teas. A romantically inspired version of the Cottage Classic Tea. Through Feb. 16. 11:30 am, 1 & 2:30 pm. $19.95–$49.95. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts, 2124 Third Ave., Julian. Reservations required: www.juliantea.com
“Mark Twain Tonight.” A one-man show bursting with Twain’s uproariously funny and pungently wise humor. 7:30 pm. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.broadwaysd.com
Residents FREE at the Gaslamp Museum every 2nd Thursday. 10 am–4 pm. 410 Island Ave. www.gaslampmuseum.org
San Diego Natural History Museum
Photos courtesy of the San Diego Museum Council
friday | 13
FREE Lunar New Year Festival. Folk and traditional performances, arts and cultural exhibitions, lion dances, firecrackers and family fun activities for kids. Through Feb. 15. Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park, 3795 Fairmount Ave. www.sdlunarnewyearfestival.com
Jimbo’s Garden Workshop: Tacos. A special garden workshop in the Trudy Bronner Discovery Garden with local, seasonal ingredients. 11–11:30 am. $14. Children’s Museum of Discovery, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.visitcmod.org
Valentine’s Premier Dinner Cruise. Revel in an elegant evening of romance. Today & tomorrow, 7–10 pm. From $118. Pier 1, Hornblower Landing, 1800 N. Harbor Dr. www.cityexperiences.com
Sweethearts Dinner Cruise. Share the beauty of San Diego’s world-class waterfront views with romantic photo opportunities sparkling in every direction. Through Feb. 15, 7:30–10 pm. Starting at $151. 990 N. Harbor Dr. www.flagshipsd.com
saturday | 14
Valentine’s Day
Flip to page 30 for party ideas.
Kids in the Garden: Nature Drawings and Watercolors. Take a close look at trees, flowers and plants, then draw them and add color to create a masterpiece. 10 am–12 noon. $5. Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista. Preregister at farmerjonesavbg@gmail.com. https://altavistabotanicalgardens.org
FREE 2nd Saturday Art Walk. Diverse and interactive experiences in visual arts, theater, live music, museums and local history offering fun for all ages. 3–10 pm. Grand Ave., Escondido. www.visitescondido.com
FREE Black Com!x Day. Showcasing Black creators in comics, films and animation. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–6 pm. WorldBeat Center, Balboa Park. www.worldbeatcenter.org
Jason Mraz Foundation Presents: “DREAM.” A concert featuring five San Diego nonprofit arts organizations to shine a light on the importance of inclusive arts programming. Today, 7 pm & tomorrow, 3 pm. $25. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 320 N. Escondido Blvd. www.jasonmraz.com/events
The Gondola Company’s Saint Valentino Cruises
These Venetian-inspired cruises offer a romantic experience along the tranquil canals of the Cays Feb. 13−15. Gondola rides are fun for families anytime of the year! 503 Grand Caribe Causeway, Ste. C, Coronado. www.gondolacompany.com/valentines
of Us: Lunar New Year. Lunar New Year storytime, a lively lion dance performance from Hoa Nghiem Lion Dance Group, create red envelopes and paper lantern crafts and enjoy an ube treat from Matcha Cafe Maiko. Free with admission. Children’s Museum of Discovery, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.visitcmod.org
Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.
sunday | 15
Birch After Hours. Designed for families, couples and anyone looking to wind down the weekend featuring a relaxed nighttime vibe inviting guests to experience the aquarium in a whole new light. Sundays, 5–7 pm. $19.95–$24.95; under 3 free. Birch Aquarium at Scripps, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. www.aquarium.ucsd.edu
Coronado Valentine’s Day 10K, 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run. Fun run, 7:30 am; 10K & 5K, 8 am. Tidelands Park, 2000 Mullinex Dr. Register: www.valentinesday10k.com
monday | 16
Presidents’ Day
Lunar New Year at the Kroc. Crafts, games, cultural performances and more. 4:30 pm. Adults, $5; kids free. 6845 University Ave. https://sd.kroccenter.org
tuesday | 17
It’s Random Acts of Kindness Day! If you’ve ever experienced a random act of kindness, you know what joy a simple act can bring. Find 41 ways to spread kindness to others this week by scanning here.
Stories
Photo courtesy of the Gondola Company
FREE San Diego Têt Festival
The Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebration, commemorating spring’s arrival. Feb. 20, 5–10 pm; Feb. 21, 11 am–10 pm; Feb. 22, 11 am–9 pm. NTC Park, Liberty Station. www.sdtet.com
thursday | 19
Movie Nights at the Museum. Afterhours self-guided tour of the Davis-Horton House, followed by a screening of a classic film in the courtyard. $10. Every 3rd Thursday, 6:45 pm. 410 Island Ave. www.gaslampmuseum.org
friday | 20
Circus Vargas. Featuring world-renowned performers, aerialists, acrobats and more. Through Mar. 9, closed Tuesdays. Starting at $25. 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd., National City. www.circusvargas.com
San Diego Jazz Party. A weekend of live Jazz featuring the world’s leading Jazz musicians and vocalists. Through Feb. 22. Hilton San Diego/Del Mar, 15575 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Visit www.sdjp.org for tickets and schedule.
Date Night. Reconnect as a couple and enjoy a night of fun. Presented by Hope on the Hard Road. 5:30–8:30 pm. Couples ticket, $62; includes dinner, dessert and two drinks. Forgotten Barrel Winery, 11120 W. 15th Ave., Escondido. Register: https://hopeonthehardroad.regfox.com/ date-night-feb-2026
saturday | 21
FREE Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair. Celebrate the Year of the Horse with cultural performances, crafts, lion dances and more. Today & tomorrow, 11 am–5 pm. International Cottages Balboa Park. www.chinesenewyearfair.com
Oceanside International Film Festival. Today & Feb. 25–28. Schedule: www.osidefilm.org
Accessibility Mornings at the Fleet. Enjoy a sensory-friendly experience from 9–10 am. Movie “Sea Otters” at 10 am with house lights on and the soundtrack volume low. Free for one visitor and accompanying guest. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org
sunday | 22
FREE San Diego Family Fun Fest. Exciting activities and resource booths, win cool prizes and get in on the action with an inflatable obstacle course, zip line, bounce house and more. 10 am–1 pm. The Salvation Army Kroc Center Corner Zone, 6845 University Ave. Flip to page 31 for more info.
Scan to register for free tickets.
The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour Centennial Celebration. From gravity-defying dunks to game-changing tricks, fans will feel the history, the joy and the fun that only the Globetrotters can deliver. 3 pm. Pechanga Arena, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. www.harlemglobetrotters.com
Swan Lake with Live Orchestra. Immerse yourself in this mesmerizing
journey where dreams, heartbreak and hope unfold right before your eyes. 6 pm. Starting at $78. California Center for the Arts, 320 N. Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org
“Peppa Pig: My First Concert.” A fun, interactive introduction to a live orchestra. 1 & 4 pm. $35. Mandeville Auditorium, UC San Diego campus, Mandeville Ln. https://artpower.ucsd.edu
tuesday | 24
“We Are Each Other’s Harvest” with Natalie Baszile: Black History Month Resource Fair & Author Talk. A resource fair, Q&A session, book signing and a free copy of one of Natalie’s books for first 50 attendees. 5–8 pm. San Diego Central Library, 330 Park Blvd., downtown. Visit https://mysdpl.org/nataliebaszile to reserve your spot.
“Beetlejuice”
A remarkably touching show about family, love and making the most of every Day-O! Feb. 24−Mar. 1. Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave. www.broadwaysd.com
Photo credit: Sydney Tran Photography
wednesday | 25
San Diego Bird Festival. A celebration of the wild birds and habitats of San Diego County. Through Mar. 1. Marina Village Conference Center, 1936 Quivira Way. Visit www.sandiegoaudubon.org for schedule and to register.
thursday | 26
FREE Family Arts & Literacy Night. Stories, crafts and a free book. 6:30 pm. The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 6605 University Ave. Register: https:/sd.kroccenter.org/kroc-san-diego/ arts
friday | 27
SeaWorld Seven Seas Food Festival. Sip and sample your way around the world of international flavors. Select dates through April 26. SeaWorld, Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworldsandiego.com
Fun Animal Friday. Story time, handson activity and an animal meet-and-greet. 10–11:30 am. $14. Children’s Museum of Discovery, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.visitcmod.org
“Where the Mountain Meets the Moon.” Follow the journey of Minli, a brave and curious young girl who sets out on a quest to change her family’s fortune. Fri.–Sun., through Mar. 15. $22.50–$24.50. Casa del Prado Theatre, Balboa Park. www.juniortheatre.com
saturday | 28
FREE San Diego Chinese New Year Fair. Celebrate the Year of the Horse with live music, food and fun activities. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–5 pm. Third Ave. & J St., downtown. www.sdcny.org
FREE Fido Fest. Dog adoptions, exhibitors, giveaways and more. 11 am–3 pm. Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Dr., Santee. www.cityofsanteeca.gov
Find more family happenings at www.sandiegofamily.com.
Want us to spread the news?
Email events@sandiegofamily.com and include the name of the event or activity, a brief description, event address, date, time, cost, contact number and website. Submission does not guarantee publication. Deadline for the April issue: March 1.
Art with Alyssa
It’s the Year of the Fire Horse!
Lunar New Year, which has been celebrated for over 3,000 years, begins Feb. 17 and ends with a Lantern Festival on March 3. 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse! It’s a special year because while each animal is represented in a 12-year cycle, the fire horse specifically only takes place every 60 years (the last fire horse year was in 1966). There are five elements in the Chinese Zodiac: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Each animal is paired with each element, creating a cycle that takes 60 years.
Many families throughout the Asian diaspora celebrate Lunar New Year, which is also known as Chinese New Year (or Spring Festival) in China, Têt in Vietnam, Seollal in Korea and Losar in Tibet, to name a few.
Local art teacher, Alyssa Navapanich, created two awesome fire horse projects to help celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse, using cardboard tubes and other supplies you may have lying around the house. Get the full supply list and instructions at www.sandiegofamily.com/for-the-kids/crafts-for-kids.
Marionette Horse
Stationary Horse
Photo credit:
Alyssa Navapanich
Have a Valentine’s Day Party! Fun ideas for tweens
Everyone knows the tween years can be hard, especially on Valentine’s Day. Kids ages 9–12 may feel too old to exchange paper valentines, but they are too young for romantic love. The good news is, the tween years are the perfect age to have a party at home with their friends! Here are tips and ideas to get you started.
What to Wear
Wearing pink and red is the most obvious choice, but parties are always more fun with a theme. Ask guests to dress in whatever theme sounds appealing to the host tween—Pajama Party, Fantasy Floral, Harry Potter, Groovy Gals, Swifty Love, Glitz and Glam, Beach Besties, favorite Disney characters, Barbie (the movie), Luau Love or “I Heart (fill in the blank) Night.”
Get Cooking
If you have a smaller group, the kids might enjoy cooking or baking together. Consider having them create heart-shaped foods like pizza, raviolis or hand pies filled with red berries.
DIY Selfie Station
Purchase an oversized frame and photo booth props (Etsy is a great source for items like this) and dedicate a spot for party guests to snap cute photos together. Consider including a themed backdrop, hats and feather boas, a selfie stick, tripod and light ring. Create a digital album for guests to share photos
with each other, such as in Google Photos. Alternatively, you might put a couple Polaroid cameras on the table (with plenty of film).
Party Snacks
Let’s face it, kids like sugar—and having sweet treats at a Valentine’s Day party is expected, but keep in mind that many fruits (naturally sweet) are conveniently pink and red, making them perfect as snacks, side dishes or to use as garnish. Other healthier snacks that fit the color scheme include smoothies, sorbet, red beet hummus for dipping, tomato and mozzarella kabobs, white chocolate-covered strawberries, shrimp cocktail and ham roll-ups.
Play Games
Learn the classic card game Hearts— or try Broken Hearts, a variation of traditional Hearts.
• Play bingo with Conversation Hearts.
• Create a heart scavenger hunt around the house or neighborhood.
• Play Pin the Heart on (insert favorite character). Buy a poster of your child’s favorite TV, movie or animated character, then cut out hearts for each party guest to try to place on a designated spot while blindfolded.
• Play Candy Heart LCR (Left, Center, Right), a fun twist on the popular dice game.
Photo credit: Alyssa Navapanich
Craft Corner
Beaded Heart Décor. Kids (and adults) will love our new “Art with Alyssa” wire heart project using beads or buttons to create unique decorations. Get all the details at www.sandiegofamily.com/for-thekids/crafts-for-kids.
Polymer Clay Earrings. Purchase different colors of oven-bake polymer clay, small cookie cutters, small rolling pins, small jump rings, earring backs or hooks, sand paper and pliers. Let kids mix and roll out clay, cut shapes and poke holes for jump rings. Bake per package directions. When cooled, sand off any rough edges and add earring attachments.
Heart Garlands. Provide supplies and covered workspace for kids to make heart banners that they can take home as a party favor (and use for years to come). Do this activity early on so the banners have time to dry before the party ends. Find instructions at www.sandiegofamily.com/for-the-kids/ crafts-for-kids/heart-garland-banner. v
Pam Molnar is a writer, mother of three and survivor of the tween years. She enjoys party planning as much as her guests enjoy the party.
Find more Valentine’s Day recipes, art projects and lots of ideas for families in our round-up at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/ seasonal-happenings/valentines-dayround-up.
