Petition for Shoplifting in California

My question involves criminal law for the state of: CA. I got caught shoplifting at fry's electronics. I am a minor (16), and they called the PD. When the officer came, he called into the PD, and asked if me and my friend get citations or petitions. They told him to give us petitions. So he wrote all our info down, and took our fingerprints. I did not have to sign anything except the paper with my fingerprints. Does this mean I don't have to appear in court? I do believe you are handed the citation if you do, correct? Will this show up in my record?

Presumably the reference is to the filing of a formal petition with the juvenile court.

When you commit crimes, you should anticipate that your criminal activity will appear on your record.

So does this mean i will have to appear in court?

If you are summoned to court, then yes.