Q: What are the benefits of pretend play?

A: Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Mr. Roger’s said, “Play is really the work of childhood,” and he’s backed by the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights, which considers play to be so important to optimal child development that it’s recognized as a right of every child. Play is fundamental to the development of the whole child; it affects growth in cognitive development, language acquisition, physical motor skills, and social and emotional development. There is not a developmental facet of the child that is not beneficially impacted by regular opportunities for play. This is serious and meaningful work they are accomplishing, but the work is so much fun, they hardly know it.

— BusyKidz
118 Woodmere Road, Suite 110, Folsom
busykidzfolsom.com, 916-608-8850

Q: What are the best wines or spirits to pair with Thai food?     

A: My favorite beer to complement Thai food is Singha, which is from Thailand; however, Chang is also good. In Thailand, the spirit of choice is usually Scotch. Wine is very tricky, because if you choose the wrong wine, both the food and wine will not taste great. Stay away from the strong taste of Napa wines and stick with one from the California Central Coast, Central Valley or Gold Country instead. Fruitier, as opposed to buttery, wines work well with Thai cuisine. Mild white wines, especially Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, go well with rice and noodle dishes, whereas a mild Merlot complements stir-fries; and stronger reds like Cabernet and Pinot Noir suit curries and Chef Jarunee’s specialty – Lemon Grass Chicken.

— Alex Fleming, Owner
Thai Paradise
2770 East Bidwell Street, Folsom
916-984-8988, thaiparadisefolsom.com