Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Growing Up in Santa Cruz

Happy Holidays from the Growing Up Staff

Growing Up staff share heartfelt holiday wishes, reflect on community engagement, and invite continued support as they look forward to a new year...

Visit Krampus Santa Cruz at Holiday Lights!

Experience Krampus Santa Cruz at Sparky's Holiday Lights on Dec 4! Enjoy millions of lights, walk the grounds, and meet Krampus, St. Nicholas's mischievous counterpart...

Should Kids Enter College After High School?

Four students share their perspectives on whether kids should enter college directly after high school, discussing career paths, financial savings, and personal choices...

Atlantis Fantasyworld Reaches Superpowered Milestone

Atlantis Fantasyworld in Santa Cruz celebrates nearly 50 years as a beloved comic book destination, built on owner Joe Ferrara's passion and a strong community...

Local Mom Creates Free Guitar-Learning App

Santa Cruz mom Brooke Muse launches Rūkus, a free guitar-learning app designed for all ages, blending connective learning with AI-powered features...

HIIT Your Holiday Goals in 20 Minutes

Achieve your holiday fitness goals in just 20 minutes with this effective HIIT workout. No equipment needed, perfect for busy schedules...

Your Presence is the Best Present

Discover how presence, not presents, is the best gift for children. Learn parenting tips on setting expectations, communicating effectively, and fostering independence and self-esteem...

Today’s Children Are Today’s Leaders

Discover how Positive Discipline empowers children as leaders and changemakers. This approach fosters mutual respect, responsibility, emotional intelligence, and social justice...

Young Reader Discovers a Powerful Story From Ukraine

A young reader shares her experience with "Kidnapped From Ukraine, Under Attack" by Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch and interviews the author about the book and her writing journey...

Holiday Rhythms That Keep Us Connected

Discover how holiday rhythms, connection, predictable routines, and sensory pauses can help children and families navigate December's shifts with calm and attunement...

The Heartwarming Story of Kevin the Clinic Dog

Discover the heartwarming journey of Kevin, a one-eyed miniature poodle, from a traumatized stray to a beloved "Clinic Dog" and finally finding his forever home...

Downtown for the Holidays

Discover holiday magic in Downtown Santa Cruz with free, family-friendly events for all ages. Enjoy parades, Santa visits, craft afternoons, movies, and support local businesses...

Is It the Most Wonderful Time of the Year?

Wintertime fashion can be stressful due to overconsumption. This article explores sustainable, eco-friendly fashion choices through personal styles, layering tips, and creative reuse...

Giving Differs Through the Generations

As the Santa Cruz Gives selection committee reviewed applications for the 2025 six-week holiday fundraiser, we talked about current events and trends in giving that might impact the campaign this year. Volunteer Center executive director...

Building Bright Futures

The Lasting Impact of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County Since 1969, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County (BGCSCC) has been a cornerstone for local youth in the area...

Two Exercises for Your Pelvic Floor

Vanessa, a postpartum mom of two, came to me concerned about feeling heaviness, bulging, and leakage after having her children. A brief search on the internet revealed to her she may have pelvic organ prolapse...

Staying Grounded Through the Holidays

The holidays can bring moments of magic — sparkling lights, familiar songs, cozy family gatherings. But for many parents and caregivers, they also bring full schedules, high expectations, sensory overload, and an endless to-do list...

Inspiring Student Innovators at TEDxMeritAcademy

Colleges today are looking for curious students — those who dive deeply into subjects that truly fascinate them. Gone are the days when being a “Jack of all Trades” guaranteed admission. Juggling three sports, piano...

Rethinking Thanksgiving and the Stories We Share

You are not alone in wondering about what it means to hold the 4th Thursday of November as a day of gratitude, known to some as Thanksgiving, and to others as the Day of Mourning...

Developing an Attitude of Gratitude

Some days, I get so caught up in work, chores, and the busyness of everyday life that I forget to slow down and really notice the little things. Watching my daughter play, hearing her laugh...

Pet of the Month: Rocco

Meet Rocco, the lovable “chocolate bear” with a powdered sugar coat! Though considered a senior, Rocco’s youthful spirit shines — he loves walks, hikes, and endless games of fetch. He rides beautifully in the car...

Pet Insurance 101

In planning for a pet’s health and wellness, many people have looked at and purchased pet insurance. If you are interested in learning more, here are a few general considerations and questions to think about:...