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Award-Winning Children’s Books Perfect for Gifting

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A First Time for Everything  by Dan Santat

Inspired by his own life, Dan Santat’s A First Time for Everything is the 2023 National Book Award Winner. This transformative coming-of-age tale is perfect for young people on the cusp of all of their big adolescent firsts — as well as adults wishing to reminisce on their own. Grades 4-6

Berry Song by Michaela Goade

On an island at the edge of a wide, wild sea, a girl and her grandmother gather gifts from the earth. Through the seasons, they sing to the land as the land sings to them. Brimming with joy and gratitude, in every step of their journey, they forge a deeper kinship with both the earth and the generations that came before, joining in the song that connects us all.  Berry Song is a Caldecott Honor Book. Preschool-grade 3

Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds

In this Caldecott Honor–winning picture book, The Twilight Zone comes to the carrot patch as a rabbit fears his favorite treats are out to get him. This hilarious picture book that shows it’s all fun and games…until you get too greedy. Preschool-grade 3

Freewater by Amina Luqman-Dawson

This Newbery & Coretta Scott King Award Winner is set against the backdrop of the American South. Freewater is a poignant tale of courage, survival and strength. Debut author Amina Luqman-Dawson has seamlessly woven fiction into reality with the story of a young boy working to free himself and his family from slavery. Grades 5 and up

Hot Dog by Doug Salati

The winner of the 2023 Caldecott Medal offers fluid art and lyrical text that have the soothing effect of waves on sand. Author Doug Salati shows us how to find calm and carry it back with us so we can appreciate the small joys in a day. Preschool-grade 3

How to Eat a Book by Mrs. & Mr. MacLeod

A whimsical picture book for kids written by a debut wife and husband team. This irresistible book about books—and the way they make us feel—is set in a world bursting with charm and character. The book is a finalist in The Barnes & Noble Children’s & YA Book Awards. Preschool-grade 3

Iveliz Explains It All by Andrea Beatriz Arango

This powerful story written in lyrical, bilingual verse gives a voice to young people navigating school, family, and friendships while living with mental health challenges. Andrea Beatriz Arango’s debut navigates mental health, finding your voice, and discovering that those who really love you will stay by your side no matter what. Grades 5-9

Let Me Call You Sweetheart by Mary Lee Donovan

What do you call the ones you love the most? Shortlisted for The Barnes & Noble Children’s & YA Book Award, this playful, sometimes silly, and always cozy picture book features more than fifty terms of endearment from around the world. Perfect for bedtime, for building vocabulary, for baby showers, and for gift-giving all year long. Preschool-grade 3

Financial Literacy: The Gift that Keeps Giving

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During this month of holidays in which gift-giving is the norm, monetary gifts can be the most meaningful. Gifts of money offer your child choices: Save. Spend. Give. Invest. They’re all great options, and your child’s financial literacy will grow with your support. I call that a gift that keeps on giving.

You might feel your child is too young to learn about money firsthand, but the perfect time to start teaching is once kids reach school age.

State Funds for Literacy Education

Being able to understand and effectively use financial skills is so essential to creating better financial futures for children, teens, and young adults that State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond recently announced the availability of $3.6 billion in block grants that can be used to expand financial literacy course offerings and an additional $1.4 million in private funding for high school teachers to receive related professional development. The hope is that the next generation of consumers will be more financially savvy.

As a parent of young teens, I’m thrilled about this. I want my kids to have the best quality of life possible and to learn that how they manage their money is a big part of this. It’s important to me that they develop a healthy relationship with money and can plan for large expenses, make wise spending decisions, manage debt, and grow their assets.

I’m fortunate that I feel equipped to teach my kids effectively, but that might not be the case for all parents. You might be relieved that the California Department of Education has stepped in with funding for financial literacy and that it’s working toward joining other states requiring such a curriculum. The only related requirement in California is that high school students take one semester of economics.

Real World Experience

Kids need real-life, hands-on experiences with money to learn how to manage it, and teaching money management and budgeting habits takes time, experience, consistency, and patience. Empowering them with opportunities to make decisions gives them confidence and helps shape their attitudes about money and behaviors related to spending, saving, and giving.

Being a parent puts you in a prime position to model healthy habits and attitudes about money and provide opportunities for your kids to earn, learn, and demonstrate their understanding of using it responsibly.

A good goal is to have your child be comfortable talking about money while giving them some basic knowledge they can build on, along with tools and resources for learning more. And, for their best chances of success, they need a working knowledge of handling finances long before they leave the nest.

Allowance or Paying for Chores?

Offer an allowance for chores around the house or cleaning one’s room. If that doesn’t sit well with you, consider paying your child for special projects or asking them for ideas of how they could earn money. They’re more likely to stay engaged if they have a say. Have your child think about short- and long-term goals and divide earnings for saving, giving, and spending.

Whenever you can, have them conduct transactions for the things they want in cash with money they earned or received as a gift. Ask them to keep receipts and add up purchases weekly so they can reflect on their choices.

Skills for Each Age Group

Kindergarteners can learn to identify coins, their value, and count money. Teens can understand creating a budget and using checks, cash, and credit cards to buy things they want and pay bills. If you run out of ideas for building your child’s financial literacy, look at a financial glossary and choose terms that make sense to introduce according to your child’s age.

Depending on your child’s interest, the teen years are a perfect time to introduce more complex concepts such as earning or accumulating interest and the differences between bank accounts and brokerage accounts. If you don’t feel confident in this area, learn together. Research types of investments and how they can earn income from dividends and capital gains, for example.

Tools for Parents

You’ll find tools, guidance, and youth-centered resources for children in Kinder through 12th grade on the California Department of Education websites, banks, and brokerage firms. These include articles about saving and investing, apps, games, podcasts, and challenges and competitions. Your teen might even enjoy a subscription to Money magazine or a book for youth about finances.

Whatever methods you choose for teaching financial literacy, be assured that this is one investment you can count on to pay off.

WENDY J. ROSENTHAL is a writer, credentialed educator and tutor, and solopreneur of a boutique marketing company. She is certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid and is the parent of two teen boys. She and her children reside in Salinas with their rescue pup Sherman.

Family Gifts to Make, Bake, and Create Memories

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Experience New Adventures in our Community

How often have you driven on Del Monte Avenue in Monterey and thought, “My kids would love to go on that swan boat!” or walked past a four-wheel Surrey bike on the Monterey Bay Coastal Rec Trail, thinking that would be a fun idea for a family outing? Make it happen with experiences that will create memories and opportunities for families to spend time together. Ideas on how you can gift these adventures along with a physical present are giving a rubber ducky or swan stuffed animal with a note saying, “Let’s ride the duck boats on El Estero Lake!” or a handmade card with a picture of a Surrey bike.

Other gift ideas to go along with experiences include a potted plant or flower with a Gilroy Gardens membership and a train set or toy with your Roaring Camp Railroad ticket.

If your child enjoys video games, consider a gift card or jar of quarters to play at one of our local arcades, Santa Cruz Boardwalk, or Chuck E. Cheese.

Baking Holiday Cookies for Friends and Neighbors

Ornaments are unique handmade gifts for family, friends, or neighbors. A friend and her son dropped off a homemade Christmas card and cookie last year, and it made my son and me feel so loved and special that they hand-delivered and thought of us. This gesture allowed us to visit with one another, and her boys spread the magic of the holidays by seeing our excitement and gratitude. Children can be involved in the entire process, from picking out ornament kits and supplies at an art store to making them and gifting them to their recipients. Card and ornament making can be as simple as cutting out a piece of paper, punching a hole, tying a string, and drawing a picture for their friend. It’s the experience of creating a gift for a loved one.

How to Make “Boring Gifts” More Exciting

You can spice up practical items by presenting them in themed gift bundles. Coastal kids can always use a “beach day” set with a kite, towel, sunscreen, sand toys, a bathing suit, and sandals. A new outfit or piece of clothing such as a jacket can be gifted with a note that says, “Bundle up in this new winter coat during our next camping trip,” along with items to make s’mores or pajamas in a “movie night” bundle along with popcorn and candy.

Make Gift Shopping a Mom’s Day Out

Moms are used to multitasking, so why not combine a Mom’s Day Out with holiday shopping? Treat yourself to brunch with a friend, followed by shopping in Downtown Carmel or Capitola. Shopping locally in some of our bookstores, toy stores, and gift shops supports small businesses and keep tax dollars in our communities.

Creative Ideas for Gift Cards

One reason parents shy away from giving gift cards and cash for holiday presents are that gift cards are less exciting than physical presents. But gift cards can be presented creatively, such as displaying them like a flower arrangement or hiding the gift card in a mason jar filled with candy. Many children love scavenger hunts, too, and the clues and answers could be related to gift card stores. For our adventurous and brave parents, give your child the movie “Yes Day” along with a card that says they can have one too! This is a day where you say yes to everything your little one asks for (within reason, of course). Pinterest is an excellent website to visit for imaginative ideas!

Mementos for Gifts for Grandparents and Parents

  • Turn your child’s art into books (also a way to get rid of loose paper and clutter
  • Purchase items for school fundraisers (which often include creations your child has made)
  • 2023 calendar with family pictures
  • Photo books
  • “World’s Best” gifts (mugs, picture frames, etc.)

Children can be involved in selecting artwork and pictures for these projects!

Listen to What Your Children Want for the Holidays

As parents and consumers, it is very easy to feel pressured to buy too many toys for our children. Consider the joys of making, baking, and giving your children experiences during the holidays. Remember, the more toys the children have, the bigger the mess to clean up!

Eight Ways to Celebrate Mom

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It’s time to celebrate those strong, loving, multi-tasking, women who gave you life.  The women who make your world go ‘round.  Even if you make it a point to celebrate your mom all year long, setting aside some special moments to honor her in a thoughtful way this Mother’s Day can feel super sweet and caring. (Take it from this mama, planned appreciation from your family just plain feels good.)

Here are eight unique (and local) ways that you might consider celebrating and honoring your mom this year:

1. GET ACTIVE. Your mom might appreciate celebrating this day by engaging in an active adventure together as a family. It could be fun to go indoor rock climbing at Sanctuary Rock Gym in Seaside (www.rockgym.com). Is biking more of your family’s thing? Then Adventures by the Sea in Monterey could supply that waterside ride and some great photo opportunities (adventuresbythesea.com). You might even take in the Elkhorn Slough with some kayak rentals from Monterey Bay Kayaks (www.montereybaykayaks.com). No matter the physical activity you choose, it’s always great to get out there as a family and to make new memories while moving.

2. SUPPORT HER SELF-CARE. Would your mom benefit from a day of rest and rejuvenation? Then give her the gift of Refuge in Carmel (www.refuge.com). Their Thermal Cycle is sure to melt away the stress of her day-to-day. If there are some additional knots that require attention, you might also send her up the street for a deep tissue massage from Tatiana (www.tatianamassagetherapy.com). If relaxation of the mind is what she is seeking, consider booking her a yoga class with Union Yoga in one of their spots around the Peninsula, or you might even organize a private session for the whole family at home (unionyoga-monterey.com). Remember, a calm mother is a happy mother.

3. ARRANGE FOR SOMETHING FANCY. There’s something extra special about an afternoon tea. Mom might love to be the guest of honor at a tea party organized on her behalf.  With a little effort, the family could make this event quite beautiful, with the caffeine boost as a bonus.  Go the extra mile, and pick her up a one-of-a-kind vintage teacup and saucer from a local antique store such as Pickings Antiques in Pacific Grove (pickingsantiques.com). Next, grab some loose tea from a specialty shop like Cha-ya Japanese Tea & Things in Monterey (www.chaya4tea.com/shop).  Throw in some baked goodies on the side like cupcakes or macarons from Blue Aces in Salinas (www.blueacesonline.com). Finally, add some color to the table with a little bouquet of arranged flowers from Fiona Floral in Pacific Grove (www.fionnafloral.com).  This festive adventure begins with tea.

4. GROW SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL. Is your mother a lover of mother nature? You might consider celebrating her green thumb by planning and seeding a special garden project together. It’s always fun to find some inspiration and to pick out some colorful supplies at the Pot Shop in Moss Landing (potstopml.com). Now you can get crafting on that tabletop succulent planter with supplies from Lucas Succulents in Salinas (lucas-succulents.business.site). Or what about breaking ground on a family garden bed or plot in the yard together?  After locating a sunny spot, shop for some plants and supplies at Hana Gardens in Del Rey Oaks (hanagardens.com) and get your hands dirty in the name of bonding and beauty.

5. PLAN A PICNIC BRUNCH. Brunch is always a good idea. Pack a cozy picnic blanket, grab some delicious brunch takeout from a place like Estéban in Monterey (www.hotelcasamunras.com/dining), and get to one of our beautiful beaches for some relaxing time together as a family. Don’t forget a custom playlist curated just for mom. Add in a bottle of Sparkling Brut from Folktale Winery in Carmel Valley for some yummy mimosas (www.folktalewinery.com), and you’ve got the perfect spring morning out planned for mom. Bonus points if she gets to nap in the sun a bit afterward.

6. COMMEMORATE YOUR FAMILY. This is the weekend to celebrate the loving family that mama made. Has your mom been desperately trying to get the whole family together for those updated family photos? Surprise her by booking a special family photo session at a local park with a professional photographer like Albert Hoffman (hoffman-photo.com) or Ben Kaatz in Monterey (www.benkaatzphotography.com.  While you wait for your new professional prints to arrive, you could start a family scrapbook together. Plan ahead with art supplies from Imagine Art Supplies in Pacific Grove (www.facebook.com/imagineartsupplies), and be sure to leave some blank pages at the end for your new shots. If food is a core part of your family’s story, it could also be special to cook a family recipe together. Start by reminiscing about the special dish and writing out a list of ingredients, and then hit a Sunday farmer’s market like the one in Marina (www.everyonesharvest.org/marina-certified-farmers-market) for the fresh ingredients to prepare. She will feel the love.

7. SATISFY HER SWEET TOOTH. Consider showering your mama with something sweet to make her day that much sweeter.  How about a sundae bar on this special Sunday?  It starts with a good base like ice cream from Revival in Monterey (revivalicecream.com).  Throw in some special toppings like fresh strawberries, homemade whipped cream, and a few colorful sprinkles.  Now you’ve got a party dedicated to mama that’s both delicious and fun. A stop by Cottage of Sweets in Carmel-by-the Sea to pick up a sampling of fudge flavors could also be a delightful treat for mom (www.cottageofsweets.com).  Arranging for a little indulgence on her special day goes a long way.

8. TAKE CARE OF HER TO-DO LIST. What can you take off of your mom’s plate while she is out doing something nice from this list all by herself? That’s the goal here.  She will certainly thank you for crossing items off the never-ending list of house chores: empty the dishwasher, fold the laundry, and sweep and mop the floors.  Or how about planning the family menu for the week and then hitting the grocery store? This is the type of gift that keeps on giving, as it gets the family’s week off to an organized start while also providing hard-working moms with a well-deserved helping hand. A win-win for everyone.

While it can be nice to try to surprise mom (Ha. Surprise mom?) with something fun, it can also be nice to just ask her what she wants to do on this day. Perhaps present her with this list of ideas (in advance, please) and ask her to choose which idea (or ideas) sound celebratory fun, or most relaxing to her. A ‘Choose Your Own Mother’s Day Adventure’ of sorts.

Whatever you decide to do for mama this year, be sure to couple that with affirmations and appreciation for who she is and all that she does.  Your mama is amazing, and she’s so worth it. And remember – your love and special acknowledgment truly do help keep us going all year long.

Megan Sulsberger, Ph.D. is mom to a willful and energetic six-year old boy and an Associate Professor in the Department of Education and Leadership at California State University Monterey Bay.

Ten Creative Father’s Day Gift Ideas

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Video Surprise Make a “World’s Best Dad” video that he’ll treasure for years to come. Put on your brainstorming cap for your own ideas, or try some of these. On videotape, share special memories of your dad, sing to him, read him a poem, or do skits. Get the whole family involved and conduct interviews with each other with Dad as the main topic. Don’t forget your props such as a banner or collection of his prized possessions including sports trophies or equipment that tell who he is. Finally, be sure to let him know just how much he means to you.

  • King for the Day It isn’t everyday that dad is waited on hand and foot. Offer to be his loyal servant for the day, and bring him coffee and toast in bed; fetch his newspaper; lie out his clothes, bath towel, and mat; be host or hostess and serve his beverages and snacks; clean up after him and anything else to give him the royal treatment.

  • Memories of Dad Purchase a scrapbook, and create a record of memories about your father and you. Include photos of special outings, events, and holidays you’ve had together and other memorabilia from family vacations and activities such as concert or sporting event ticket stubs, postcards, and brochures. Next to each photo or item, describe your memories of those times together with your father.

  • A Man to Remember Get your creative juices flowing, and write a poem for your dad. You need not be a poet to come up with a few thoughtful words to say how much he means. Describe the impact he’s had on your life, how he’s helped you to become the person you are today, and what he is to you. Then print it on stationery, mat, and frame it.

  • Togetherness Takes Two Has your dad been putting off the dreaded task of cleaning out his attic, basement, or garage? Give him a gift of shelving materials and brackets, wall racks and ceiling hooks, and storage crates. Then spend the day helping him to get it organized while catching up on old times.

  • World’s Greatest Let dad know that he’s the greatest 365 days a year! Give him a “World’s Greatest Dad” coffee mug, t-shirt, book cover, book marker, wallet card, or other trinket that he’ll see or use regularly.

  • Father’s Day Feast As the old adage goes; the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. So, treat dad to a mouth-watering meal on the bar-be-que. Fix him his favorite: steak, ribs, chicken, burgers, or chops for starters, and don’t forget the grilled potatoes or squash, garlic bread or rolls, fresh green beans or asparagus, sweet corn, potato salad, and last but not least, his favorite dessert.

  • Just the Two of Us Put together a photo collage of you and your father. There are many ways to do this. Find instructions at your nearby craft store and create a Decoupage photo collage, keep it simple with a multi-photo frame, or purchase a unique 3D Photo Collage frame which can be found through a number of stores online.

  • Take a Stroll Enjoy a peaceful walk together in the park or the country. Better yet, gather your bikes or roller blades, hit a scenic bike path, and enjoy the summer breeze.

  • Certificates of Appreciation Show Dad you appreciate his hard work by returning the favor. Make coupons that say: “In appreciation for all that you do, Dad, please redeem this certificate for a hassle-free car wash by me!” Other favors include sweeping out the garage, mowing the lawn, or any other task for which he normally takes responsibility.

  • Catch a Flick…..or two Treat your dad to a movie fest. Rent a couple newly released videos or some of his long time favorites. Don’t forget the hot, buttered popcorn, candy, and soft drinks.


Kimberly Blaker is a freelance parenting and lifestyle writer. She’s also founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, an internet marketing agency, at kbcreativedigital.com

Special Mother’s Day Gifts for the New Mom

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Looking for a Mother’s Day or shower gift for a new mom? Here are five suggestions from the National Parenting Product Awards.

JJ Cole Popperton Boxy Backpack

This stylish bag features 8 pockets, including 4 easy access exterior slip pockets, a changing pad that stores easily inside the bag and easy wipe nylon exterior and a zip out, machine-washable liner. $83.99, www.us.tomy.com

Emmaline Robe

This cozy robe is great for every stage of motherhood, from pregnancy to postpartum. Features two places to tie the belt, offering an empire or traditional waist and extra deep pockets. $34.99, www.kinredbravely.com

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller

The intuitive design of this stylish stroller allows for multiple configurations, making transporting a second and third child a breeze — all while strolling like a single. Features a bassinet, reversible toddler seat, one-handed recline and extendable, UPF 50+ canopy,  $929.99, birth-50 lbs., www.uppababy.com

mbrio Clip-on Earbud Adapters

Transform regular audio earbuds into “pregnancy headphones.” Place your earbuds into the adapters and clip them to your waistband and start sharing your favorite music with your baby. Made from medical-grade silicone and independently-tested, mbrio’s patented adapters are safe for baby’s ears, skin-safe, comfortable and ultra-lightweight. $29.95, www.mbriotech.com

Dream On Me Nursing Chair

Designed to add more convenience and comfort during feeding time and can be used beyond the baby stage as a portable chair for play or reading time. Features 6 adjustable positions and a removable, machine-washable cover. Lays flat for easy storage. $60, www.dreamonme.com

For more award-winning products visit nappaawards.com

Parenting OC