Jaime McFaden, Malia Fort, Tarmo Hannula, John Koenig, Elizabeth Borelli, Susan TatsuiD’Arcy, Yesenia Gomez-Carrillo, Lucia
Thomas, Tova Petra Kolodinski, Sarah Nofi, Steven Weiss, Sarah Krummel, Isabella Blevins
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Bobbi Jo Palmer
AD REPRESENTATIVES
Ann Fitts Sophie Veniel Bob Pursley advertising@growingupsc.com
CONTACT US
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editor@growingupsc.com
P.O. Box 3505, Santa Cruz, CA 95063
SEPTEMBER 2025 | VOL. 29 NO. 9
Printed by Folger Graphics.
Even small changes can make a BIG difference.
Triple P is a scientifically-proven, world-renowned positive parenting program available to families in Santa Cruz County.
Triple P strategies address a wide range of parenting challenges by providing a toolbox of easy-to-use tips.
Find a full schedule of Triple P tips and classes at triplep.first5scc.org.
Surprises on Every Page
As a lifelong journalist who got out of the hard news business after decades at the San Jose Mercury News, I bought this magazine to help me be a better father and to learn more about the community.
This month’s issue covers both bases and more.
Good journalism should have a surprise on every page; it should take you somewhere you never thought you’d go and help lead you to new ideas and new revelations. Or, as Capt. James T. Kirk once said (and I paraphrase): It should help you boldly go where no person has gone before.
This issue is chock full of surprising thoughts.
Like…with the school year starting, how do you handle the depression your pets feel being left alone? What can you do about it? We’ve got that one covered by an expert writer. It’s not something I would have considered before and I hope it helps you.
Then there’s this article by Jaime Mcfaden, who shares a place to bring and amaze your kids. “Remember when you were a kid and believed fairy tales were real? When enchanted forests, magical creatures, and happily-ever-afters felt within reach? Then you grew up, became a parent in the Bay Area, and realized life doesn’t quite look like that anymore… or does it?”
This one will open up a bold new world for you, right here in our backyard.
You will meet a fascinating children’s author in a profile of Russ Rogers, whose message is simple, but powerful: Families need to move together, play together, and connect—without screens. “Back in the day, our parents had to tell us to come inside,” Russ says. “Now, they’re begging kids to go outside.
On the Cover
That reversal is huge.”
Educator Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy writes an eye-opening column about why kids may be ready for college, but not for life. It’s simply written and highly informative for all of us.
Our cover, of course, reminds you that one of the great things in this county is happening in the weeks ahead: the Santa Cruz County Fair. Some of the best times of my family’s lives have been spent there, learning about bugs, animals, the environment and watching magic, music, pigs racing…everything that takes us back to a time of agriculture and real community!
Some of this year’s highlights include: a Taylor Swift tribute, a Beatles tribute, Outlaw Mariachi, Mexican wrestling, Showtime Circus, the Skye Dreams Drone Show, hypnotist Michael Mezmer, and a Freestyle Motocross show with X Games Gold Medalist Adam Jones. And that barely touches how much is going on there Sept. 10-14. There’s enough to go back each day and see more. I didn’t even get into all the contests and art displays. Send us your photos from the Fair and we’ll print as many as we can in October.
I also haven’t touched on all the other articles and columns inside, but I know you will have a blast thumbing through it and discovering the joys of growing up in Santa Cruz.
I hope you’ll clip a lot of pages and mount them on your refrigerators.
Thanks for reading!
Brad Kava, Editor and Publisher
Hay Bales, Piggy Tails & Ewe!
The Santa Cruz County Fair is your one-stop-shop for family fun!
When you and your kiddos enter through the gates of the fairgrounds, you’ll be transported to a world of magic, music, comedy, dancing, rides, animals, flowers, art and edible treats.
And we’re going to let you in on a little secret—the Fair is also educational!
Catch the Social Media Wave
Don’t miss the Growing Up in Santa Cruz videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. To promote your business to thousands of viewers in the area each week, email editor@growingupsc.com or call (408) 656-1519.
In our Ag-Hort Department, you’ll get a gander at giant pumpkins and learn all about where our food comes from. In the Bug Barn, you can hold a living insect and study a working beehive.
Wander through our Livestock Barn to see pigs, goats, sheep and steer... and talk with the 4-H and FFA teens who raised the animals – they’re a smart bunch who love to share their knowledge of livestock. The Ag-History Project is a trip back in time. Kids can drive a tractor, learn how to milk a cow and try their hand at using old-fashioned farm equipment.
The Santa Cruz County Fair is truly a marvelous mix of fun and learning for fairgoers of all ages!
The Fair offers new entertainment every year! New this year, Pro-Wrestling Revolution, It’s Showtime Circus, FMX Ramp-Age (additional ticket required) and the Slime Lab!
Live concerts include The White Album Ensemble, RED – A Taylor Swift Tribute, The Outlaw Mariachi and Los Dinnos! And back by popular demand, our Santa Cruz Lights Drone Show!
The Fair offers FREE admission for kids 12 and under on Thursday, September 11th.
And pile five or more people into your car and parking is free!
For tickets and daily schedules, please visit our website santacruzcountyfair.com.
CORNER
Question of the Month
What Is Your Favorite Way to Spend an Afternoon?
BY JOHN KOENIG
Kinderwood Farms is Where Fairy Tales Come to Life
BY JAIME MCFADEN
Remember when you were a kid and believed fairy tales were real? When enchanted forests, magical creatures, and happily-ever-afters felt within reach? Then you grew up, became a parent in the Bay Area, and realized life doesn’t quite look like that anymore… or does it?
While growing up can feel like a harsh awakening, there are extraordinary people out there who create their own reality — living outside the box and proving that a precious, storybook-like life is possible. Welcome to Kinderwood Farms, a small, enchanting farm with over 70 animals, just minutes away from places like Mentone and New Leaf Market, yet feeling like you’ve stepped right into an old storybook.
As you approach this magical mini farm-climbing a fairly steep hill—you’re instantly greeted by their signature black-and-white cat Katinka, who often pops out of the back of a truck or weaves through the greenery to welcome you with warmth. Near the front door, a turkey might strut by, a pig might wander near, and the man of the house, Mack (short for Macdonald—yes, he really does have a farm, E-I-E-I-O), will greet you with a kindness straight out of a fairy tale.
Then there’s Lauren, Mack’s wife, nursing their sweet baby boy, Rex. With her luscious Ariel-red hair and a super cool vibe that’s equal parts mermaid and homestead queen, she draws you in with her genuine warmth and hospitality. Lauren will likely offer you her signature sparkling cranberry water cooler or her fresh made sourdough, maybe some FRESH goat cheese that they just made early in the day— regardless of what it may be - they sure know how to HOST and make you feel like family.
Not to mention, Lauren loves to teach and is eager to share knowledge and experience with all ages. She taught my daughter how to make fettuccine from scratch and taught my mom tips on how to make the perfect sourdough. (You’ll have to ask her when you go too!)
Two main castmates of the house: Georgie and Nicky (known as the protector of the farm) they are both super friendly dogs. In fact - all of the animals are quite friendly (love snuggles and pets) and similar to a storybook, dogs, cats, goats, pigs all can share the same space and are happy to hang with each other and humans! Pretty amazing and for many feels surreal.
Once you arrive and realize this storybook is real, you won’t want to leave. In fact, Kinderwood Farms offers a cozy room with bathroom to rent, so you can stay for a few days and fully
immerse yourself in the magic. I discovered Kinderwood Farms while searching for places where my kids and I could volunteer and connect with animals. Make sure you book in advance, the farm is a mini oasis that is by reservation only.
Though I don’t have a farm (yet!), I believe that pursuing any dream starts by putting yourself in the right environment. This farm was exactly that—an outside-the-box experience filled with animals, nature, and heartfelt community. And both Lauren and Mack explained one of their goals is to inspire others to do the things that bring JOY. When I asked them both about what brings the most JOY in their life right now without hesitation - they both said, “Rex” and then Mack shared in fact watching Lauren as a mom and Mack are the best!
Lauren and Mack are extraordinary hosts, blending culinary, artistic, and hospitality talents to make you feel like you’re not just visiting a farm— but stepping into a home and a story unfolding. You might even get to milk goats, make cheese, or sample bread fresh from the oven. They offer so many nourishing experiences!
They’re doing things differently— breaking away from the typical bay area lifestyle.
My daughter Sofia put it perfectly:
“Lauren and Mack are like two angels God sent to earth to show us how to live.”
Having lived in Greece at 17, milking goats in a village, I recognize that rare, beautiful feeling—something so unique many never get to experience. That’s why I wanted to share their story, to show that living against the grain might just be the best way to live in today’s fast-paced, hustle-driven world.
In a culture that can feel cold and competitive, who doesn’t want to slow down, enjoy nature, connect with animals, savor home-cooked food, and be part of something bigger than ourselves? Kinderwood Farms is that “modern village” bringing community and sustainability to life.
They also host fun events like Goat Yoga, teaming up with Beer 30 to bring baby goats along—imagine a tiny goat on your back as you flow through a
child’s pose!
Lauren and Mack are passionate about community-led participation and sustainability. Both highly educated, warm, and hardworking, they care deeply for every one of their animals, all of whom have brilliant names and big personalities. Which some of the guests have even had the opportunity of helping choose names.. and all very creative!
On my last visit, we arrived with a gift for their newborn baby—only to find a baby goat born that very morning! Holding and feeding that sweet little creature felt like the most magical, real-life fairy tale moment. Then to all of our surprise my son who is 1.5 bottle fed one of the baby goats.
Of course, it’s not all rainbows and unicorns—these two work tirelessly, cleaning, caring, building, nursing, and feeding. Mack is usually crafting something new, while Lauren juggles motherhood, cooking, and even sailing (she’s a sailing expert!). I’ve encouraged them to consider adding a Kinderwood sailing experience—imagine that!
If you want to experience magic, community, and the kind of life that feels like a storybook come to life,
Kinderwood Farms is waiting for you. They have a goal of reaching more people. To inspire balance and share their JOY with others. I even asked them to share if they could have an extra hand right now in the business what would it be and they both said with marketing and sharing what they love with more people out there. If that sounds like you or you just want to help a boot strap business and love animals be sure to reach out.
SOME TIPS FOR THOSE LOOKING TO START A HOMESTEAD LIFESTYLE FROM THE PROS:
Get a mentor Google is great for many things but learning from someone is most important
Be part of a community (having a village mindset and meeting local farmers helps!
Chickens are a great place to start! You can still live your lifestyle and a perfect way to check out farm life (And have some delicious eggs)
Check them out here: kinderwoodfarms.com
Jaime McFadden is the #1 Best Selling Author of “Waves of Self-Care: It Takes a Village” jaimemcfaden.com
Kokoro No Gakko Reaches 36th Year
BY TARMO HANNULA
Kokoro no Gakko, a one-week summer program designed to expose the culture of Japan to area youths, wrapped up its 34th recently during an open house at the Watsonville Buddhist Temple. Formed 36 years ago, in 1989, the school cancelled two years during the Covid pandemic.
The “School with a Heart” (in English translation) this year welcomed 53 students, grades kinder through 6, to five days of lessons in traditional Japanese activities, including bonsai, ikebana, origami, calligraphy, cooking, language arts, music and more.
Friday’s event treated a crowd of over 250 people to choral works punctuated with theatrics and traditional Japanese attire. The gathering, headed up by principal Melissa Eguchi-Song, included a raffle and potluck dinner.
Sixth-grader Jayle Wong said, “I would come back to this program next year because it was fun. We did a lot of different things that I liked. We made mochi and did artwork, like sumi-e, a Japanese art where you can only use one color in brush work.”
Gakko is a parent-cooperative undertaking that is largely fueled by the students’ families and the facility
support of the Buddhist Temple. Eight teachers, a hefty list of volunteers, local businesses and organizations lay the foundation for the program.
Mikalea Song, also a sixth-grader, said, “I liked helping build the community. I would definitely come back. I like knowing that I was helping my community be a better place.”
Performance directors Denise and Bob Gómez have taught at Gakko for years and have traveled to Watsonville’s sister city in Japan, Kawakami, seven times. The couple helped orchestrate and choreograph, through guitar playing, poetry and singing, six stage works that represented each grade.
The event culminated with a schoolwide performance of the popular folk song “Will the Circle be Unbroken/ Sonkei no Uta,” for the theme Sonkei, or Respect. The Gómezes dedicated the program to Kawakami, in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan.
“People come here to find support that comes from the heart,” said Aimée Mizuno, who has taught at Gakko for 18 years. “This is always a special week for the Japanese/American community to expand their cultural horizons. This is an inter-generational group that
truly helps kids and grandparents, and everyone in between, share values, respect and gratitude. It’s an amazing learning situation.”
First-grader Simone Sampson said
she “had a lot of fun. I got to make a traditional fan and do other artwork. The fan is used for Japanese dancing. This was really different. I want to come back next year.”
Students in Kokoro no Gakko perform at the Watsonville Buddhist Temple with the accompaniment of Bob Gomez during the close of the one-week program. Photo by Tarmo Hannula
Russ Rogers on a Mission to Get Families Moving HEALTHY LIVING
BY ELIZABETH BORELLI
Capitola author Russ Rogers didn’t follow the typical path to becoming a wellness leader. After playing college baseball at Cal Poly, he stepped away from sports entirely, beginning his career as a youth pastor before to Mexico to serve in an orphanage.
His passion for service carried him back to Santa Cruz, where he took a job at Bethany College—then located at the campus now home to 1440 Multiversity. Rogers worked in fundraising and eventually helped to remodel the campus. But it was a chance conversation with the softball coach that shifted his path in a surprising direction.
“She asked me to come help with the girls because of my baseball background,” Russ recalls. He agreed to assist. Then the coach left, and someone asked, “Would you consider being a softball coach?” Undeterred, he knew he had to learn the game of softball—fast.
That opportunity turned into seven years of collegiate coaching, but it didn’t stop there. Kids and parents in the community started requesting private coaching, and soon Rogers found himself launching a business focused on baseball and softball training—teaching kids how to hit, pitch, and play the field.
The side hustle grew into a 20-year business. At the same time, he also launched a landscaping business. For two decades, he ran both until COVID-19 shut down schools and sports. “I said, you know, I think I’m done with coaching. I’m going to step back and focus on landscaping,” he says.
Then came a spark.
While on a flight to the East Coast, he pulled out a journal he’d carried around for over a year. “I hadn’t written a word in it,” he admits. But something shifted. “On that flight, I wrote the word move, and from there, the ideas just kept flowing.”
That one word became the seed for a series of children’s books called Today. The focus: helping families unplug from screens, get outside, and move together. “It’s really for the early years—kids five and under,” says Russ. “It’s about setting the tone early, raising outdoor kids.”
THE MOVE TODAY MISSION
Russ Rogers’ message is simple, but powerful: Families need to move together, play together, and connect—without screens.
“Back in the day, our parents had to tell us to come inside,” Russ says. “Now, they’re begging kids to go outside. That reversal is huge.” It’s not just about physical
activity—it’s about the mental toll of constant screen time. “You walk into restaurants and see whole families on their phones. It’s disturbing. That time could be spent bonding, talking, being present.”
To support his mission, Russ created Community Strides, a monthly walk held on the second Saturday of every month. “It’s easy. You can do it in any neighborhood,” he says. “Just get a few friends and family together and walk two miles. It’s about activity and socializing.”
He leads a walk on West Cliff every month and has watched the idea grow. “We’ve got walkers in 25 states and seven countries now. It’s amazing to see how something so simple can bring people together.”
And it’s not just young families— he notes that older couples in their 60s and 70s join regularly. “They thank me for ‘forcing’ them to show up. I say, ‘I didn’t force you—you just needed an invitation.’”
Russ has even walked alone during cold, rainy winters. “One day, the wind was so strong I had to switch sides of the street to avoid the ocean spray. But I kept going. No excuses.”
BUILDING BOUNDARIES, BREAKING PATTERNS
Russ is realistic about the challenges parents face. “It’s hard to change when kids are already glued to devices. But you have to start somewhere,” he says.
He advises families to start small: “Set one hour each evening—maybe 6 to 7 p.m.—with no devices. Eat dinner. Go for a walk. Shoot hoops. Take a bike ride.”
Of course, some kids will protest. “They’ll scream. That’s what kids do,” Russ laughs. “But stick to it.
You’re the parent. Set the boundaries now or it gets harder later.”
He believes starting early makes all the difference. “If your kids don’t know anything else, they won’t miss the screens,” he says. “But even if they’ve already got them, you can still lead by example.”
He recalls a quote from actor Matthew McConaughey, who didn’t give his kids phones until they were 16. “It’s possible,” says Russ. “You just need the will.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
Russ is expanding his Today series to reach even more age groups. “I’m working on a version for elementary school kids and another for junior high and high school students,” he says. “The idea is to get them thinking, creating, moving—and writing their own story.”
Inspired by the legendary NC State coach Jim Valvano, Russ keeps three words in mind: laugh, cry, think. “If you can do all three in a day, that’s a good day,” he says. His books aim to help kids do just that.
He’s also developed a special anniversary edition of the Today
series, complete with checkboxes for kids to mark off completed activities, jot down notes, and even add photos. “It’s interactive and fun. It turns wellness into a shared family project.”
For Russ, it’s not about selling books—it’s about building momentum for a movement. “I just want to help families reconnect—to themselves, to each other, and to the outdoors.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Russ isn’t just building a business—he’s building a community. One where families walk together. Where kids play outside. Where devices are left at the table. And if that sounds too big, he has a simple piece of advice: Just take the first step.
“Maybe that step is one walk a month. Maybe it’s one hour without screens. Whatever it is, begin. That’s how change starts.”
To learn more about Russ Rogers, the Today book series, or Community Strides, follow @movetoday365 on Instagram or email movetoday365@ yahoo.com.
Open your potential.
CalPERS members, this Open Enrollment, choose a plan that gives you access to Dignity Health.
Getting where you need to be in life is easier when the path is open to you. When it comes to health care, the Open Enrollment process puts you in control. As you’re comparing health plans this season, consider the advantages of one that connects you to Dignity Health, the largest physician network in Santa Cruz County. Like our more than 200 primary and specialty care providers located in more than 100 locations throughout the region. All backed up by Dominican Hospital’s nationally recognized programs for heart, cancer, obstetrics and other specialties. Find out more at DignityHealth.org/CalPERS.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL GUIDE
SCHOOLS
Acton Academy Santa Cruz 440 Frederick St Santa Cruz
www.ActonSantaCruz.org
info@actonsantacruz.org
At Acton Academy Santa Cruz (440 Frederick St, Midtown), learners ages 4–18 embark on a transformative, learner-driven journey to discover their unique calling. Our Montessori-based Spark Studio nurtures curiosity for ages 4–8, while older learners engage in Socratic discussions, real-world projects, and apprenticeships—growing into resilient, self-motivated problem solvers. On Fridays, ArtTerra Enrichment brings creativity to life through hands-on art, permaculture, and nature-based learning. Mixed-age studios explore painting, sculpture, planting, music, and theater—fostering leadership and connection to beauty and nature. Now enrolling for 2025–2026. Learn more at www.ActonSantaCruz.org or email info@actonsantacruz.org.
Chartwell School
2511 Numa Watson Road, Seaside 831.394.3468
Chartwell.org
Chartwell School, located on 60 acres in Seaside, serves students with dyslexia and associated learning differences who are currently not reaching their full potential. We do this in grades 1-12 by providing targeted and direct reading, writing, and math instruction to empower learners with the skills, strategies, tools, and socialemotional mindset they need to thrive in college and beyond.
“For us, Chartwell represents unlimited possibilities. It no longer feels like our son’s story will be about constant struggle, but about his journey to reach his full potential.” – Chartwell parent Gateway School, K-8 255 Swift Street, Santa Cruz 831.423.0341 ext 302 admissions@gatewaysc.org gatewaysc.org
Founded in 1970, Gateway is Santa Cruz County’s only accredited independent school serving students from kindergarten through 8th grade. We provide a rigorous academic curriculum balanced with a strong focus on students’ social and emotional well-being, all in service of our mission to inspire children to lead lives of purpose and compassion through scholarship and citizenship. Gateway is proud to be voted the Best
Elementary and Best Middle School in Santa Cruz. If you’d like to learn more, we invite you to visit our website or schedule a tour, gatewaysc.org.
Orchard School, established over 30 years ago, provides a unique, yet comprehensive K-6 education. At Orchard, we weave together the magic of an extraordinary faculty, a 14-acre campus and a down to earth philosophy that nourishes and honors the natural growth and development of children. Small class sizes, an organic garden and an animal farm create enriching “whole child” learning experiences that are hands-on and individualized. We provide Strong Core Academics, Excellent Science Curriculum, Art, Music, Physical Theater/Circus Arts, Electives, Ceramics, Archery, Swimming, Leadership, Field Trips, Drama Productions, and more.
We offer morning, afternoon, and full-day sessions. Our three beautiful acres offer room to explore, including swings, slides, trees to climb, a ninja course, zipline, bike track and a giant sandbox! Kids also enjoy our farm animals and grazing on food from our organic garden and orchards
Santa Catalina School
1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey 831.655.9300 santacatalina.org
Santa Catalina School prepares students to lead lives of meaning and purpose. Our co-ed Lower and Middle School (PreK–Grade 8) thoughtfully combines values-based, hands-on learning with intentional development of character. Our all-girls day and boarding Upper School (Grades 9–12) encourages students to explore, discover, and deepen their passions and interests in academic and real-world settings. Grounded in relationships and service to others, Santa Catalina boasts a 75-year tradition of educating fearless and enthusiastic scholars equipped to enter the world with courage, grace, and compassion. Visit us to explore all that Catalina has to offer. School-year transportation available.
Santa Cruz City Schools
Sam Rolens samuelrolens@sccs.net 831.419.2927 sccs.net/enroll
At Santa Cruz City Schools, students find belonging, room to explore & high expectations! In Transitional Kindergarten (kids turning 4 by Sept. 1st) & Kindergarten (kids turning 5 by Sept. 1st), we greet students with a play-centric, curiosity-driven experience. Elementary students learn in classrooms, gardens, kitchens, art studios, and in our after-school enrichment programs. Our Middle Schools foster independence and emotional development as students push themselves academically. Our High Schools provide boundless opportunities: with more AP classes, athletics, artistic and performance outlets, leadership opportunities, community connections and supports to launch students into their next adventure in college or career excellence.
Santa Cruz Montessori
Ages 18 months – 14 years Main Campus (Primary and Elementary)
6230 Soquel Drive, Aptos Winston Campus (Young Children’s Community and Jr. High)
244 Cabrillo College Drive, Soquel 831.476.1646 scms.org
Established in 1964, Santa Cruz Montessori is a non-profit school serving children 18 months to 14 years. Our beautiful classrooms and outdoor environments engage the children’s senses as they learn. Based on a deep understanding of child through adolescent development, our programs meet the interests and needs of our students, engaging and challenging them to do their best. We are a supportive community of learners and offer an exciting Montessori curriculum including humanities, math, sciences and arts. Our mission: as a Montessori learning community, we inspire life-long learning and a more peaceful world by nurturing the natural.
Santa Cruz Waldorf School, PreK-8
2190 Empire Grade, Santa Cruz 831.425.0519 santacruzwaldorf.org enrollment@santacruzwaldorf.org
Santa Cruz Waldorf School
nurtures the whole human being in every individual, cultivating the capacity of head, heart, and hands. We offer a rich and balanced curriculum in which intellectual and artistic development are both vital and fully integrated. Specialty teachers work alongside class teachers to provide students with diverse experiences in language, movement, music, arts, games, and gardening. Our magical, rural campus is nestled in the redwoods above USCS.
Our community is warm and joyful. We are committed to protecting childhood, supporting each individual, respecting nature and all life. Santa Cruz Waldorf School cultivates self-directed, empathetic, and free-thinking individuals with the courage and capacities to serve an everevolving humanity.
Tara Redwood School 5810 Prescott Road, Soquel 831.462.9632
Since 1989, Tara Redwood School has piloted its signature pedagogy, Creating Compassionate Cultures (CCC), which teaches students to make a positive difference in the world by educating both the heart and the mind. Our curriculum integrates Tara’s CCC approach with Montessori methodology. We place a strong emphasis on global studies, sciences, environmental studies, creative arts, social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and compassion in action. Classes are multi-age with a low student-to-teacher ratio, serving children from Preschool (ages 2–4) through Elementary (ages 4–11). Learning takes place both indoors and outdoors across 108 acres of forest, meadows, and creeks.
Universal PreKindergarten, The Santa Cruz County Office of Education 831.466.5820 childcare.santacruzcoe.org.
Starting in the 2025–26 school year, every family with young children in Santa Cruz County will have access to highquality early learning through California’s Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) initiative. UPK programs offer free and low-cost preschool for kids ages 2 to 5, along with Transitional Kindergarten for children turning 4 by Sept. 1. These opportunities are open to all families, regardless of income or immigration status. The Santa Cruz County Office of Education wholeheartedly supports this effort to give every child a strong start.
Directed by Carlin Truong, the Cabrillo Youth Chorus offers a comprehensive vocal music program for children 8-18, providing instruction in musicianship and theory along with exciting performance opportunities. CYC offers four levels of instruction from beginning to advanced. CYC students sing with the Santa Cruz Symphony and other performing groups, and have performed in Carnegie
Hall! Rehearsals take place weekly at Cabrillo College from 4-5:30pm; the beginning class meets on Tuesdays, and the intermediate/advanced class on Wednesdays. More information is available online at CabrilloYouthChorus. org, or you can email cyc.staffers@gmail.com
Central Coast Language and Learning Center
8030 Soquel Avenue Unit 100, Santa Cruz 831.645.7900
CoastalLearning.org
CCLLC is a private practice speech language pathology clinic serving people of all ages. Our team of speech pathologists and pediatric feeding therapists use research-based methods to tailor therapy toward each unique person. We utilize a family-centered approach that creates partnerships between our speech therapists and family members to bridge the gap between language and learning. Through guided training and instruction from our therapists, parents learn strategies to also engage and help their child at home. We offer services in English and Spanish, both in-person and virtually. We accept most health insurance and are open for after-school hours until 6 pm, Monday-Friday. For more information, visit coastallearning.com.
“Having four special needs children with various speech issues, CCLLC has proven to be an excellent speech resource for all my children in meeting each of their own unique needs.”
Crescendo Dance
CrescendoDance.com
Info@CrescendoDance.com
Capitola Mall suite G07
Transformative dance training that empowers aspiring professional dancers. Our thoughtfully designed curriculum blends technical excellence with a holistic approach, that fosters not only strong, capable dancers but confident, creative individuals. We pride ourselves on creating a safe place to reach excellence by: Putting positivity first, Teaching beyond anti-bullying and onto healthy relationships, Focusing on building and nurturing mental health, Body love, not just body positivity, Empowering dancers to be the drivers of their own growth.Ballet~Lyrical~Jazz~Turns and Leaps~Dance Acro~Stretch~Storybook
DanceLearn more at CrescendoDance.com
Drawn2Art Studios
19C Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center, Aptos 831.661.5652
drawn2artclasses.com
Aptos@Drawn2ArtStudios.com
Drawn2Art offers a “Free Introductory Art Class,” ages 4 years- Teens/Adults. The trial Class is a nice introduction into the program and the student takes home a finished picture. The program is designed to the student’s level of ability,
each student works independently at their own pace/artistic level. The techniques are based in a traditional/ classical approach, using different mediums/subject matter. Classes are available throughout the week and are broken up into different age groups. Seasonal Camps are offered throughout the school year. Call us at: (831) 661-5652 or email us: aptos@ drawn2artstudios.com. Sign-Up Now and Join Us for educational fun!
International Academy of Dance
IADance.com | NutcrackerSantaCruz. com info@IADance.com 831.466.0458
International Academy of Dance, home of Santa Cruz City Ballet, provides world class instruction in Classical Ballet, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, and Jazz. The studio is an encouraging and supportive community from ages two to eighty-two. It is our mission to inspire students of all ages to develop a lifelong love of dance. Through choreography, balance, agility, strength and flexibility, we work with each dancer to hone artistry, technique, focus and musicality. We aspire to bring joy and generate growth in every class. We can’t wait to see you in the studio! Nutcracker Auditions Aug. 23 at International Academy of Dance: Calling all performers, dreamers, and stars of all ages. Come audition for Nutcracker: Experience the Magic! - at Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater Dec. 20-21. More info at NutcrackerSantaCruz.com.
Jim Booth Swim School
Watsonville indoor pool and coming soon to Toadal fitness
831.722.3500
JimBoothSwimSchool.com
Be a water wonder!
From
our Little Otters swim class for parents and their babies to Aquaphobics, our adult beginner class, the whole family splashes together at Jim Booth Swim School. Little Otters is a gentle introduction to our 94-degree pools that will make you confident that you are guiding your infant to a happy water experience. Our group lessons emphasize quality swimming in an exciting class taught by our caring, wellqualified teachers. Soon offering a noncompetitive swim team to help develop strength, endurance & technique. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School!
Junebug’s Gym
3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz 831.464.BUGS (2847) junebugsgym.com
JuneBug’s Gym is a place where your child can experience a fun-filled adventure in movement. We have a caring, respectful, and supportive staff that encourages every child in
their growth of large motor skills and gymnastics along with social, emotional and cognitive development. Our goals for our students are to help them feel control and empowerment in their bodies, to build self-esteem through success, and learn FUNdamental motor skills. Besides classes for ages crawling-8 yrs old, we also offer birthday parties, Parents Night Out, Open Gyms and camps. Come join the Fun.
The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History info@santacruzmah.org
831.429.1964
705 Front St, Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
(the MAH) wants you to start your school year off right. We offer individual and group tours, curriculum guides, and even have cool art supplies, notebooks, and other swag in our newly opened Museum Shop. This year we’ll be offering three distinct summer camps and a variety of new education programs for both youth and adults. Plus, check out our new educational materials for the History of Surfing, London Nelson, and more. The museum offers student and educator discounts. Stop in Thursday-Monday! MusicalMe, Inc. offering Music Together™
All over Santa Clara & Santa Cruz Counties 831.332.9002 Musicalme.com
Give Your Child the Gift of Music. Join Music Together, the gold standard in early childhood music enrichment (Birth to 5 years). Our playful, award-winning classes nurture brain development, language, and social skills while sparking your child’s inner music-maker. Discover why music profoundly shapes young minds and how to make it part of daily life. Sing, dance, and play together, creating joyful memories that last a lifetime.
Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center, Inc. 2750 B Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz 831.462.0655 scgym.com
At Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center our mission is to build a community of people that all support each other’s growth, learning, safety and development through our love of gymnastics and fun. From preschool to competitive programs, kids will learn skills such as rolls, handstands, and cartwheels. We also focus on age-appropriate school readiness skills such as waiting in line, sharing, taking turns, and color/ number/shape recognition. We know that every child can benefit from gymnastics, physically, emotionally and cognitively so we offer something for everyone. Check out our website for more information and class registration!
Seven Directions Creative Learning Center 831.713.9392
sevendirections.org
sevendirectionsinfo@gmail.com
Seven Directions is Santa Cruz’s premiere creative center for kids and teens! Offering instruction in various arts, sciences, and more in a lively studio with over 30 live exotic animals. We are committed to helping nurture students’ self-esteem, building lasting friendships, and empowering them as artists, learners, and creative thinkers.
HEALTH
Alison K. Jackson, DDS Children’s Dentistry
7545 Soquel Dr, Aptos 831.662.2900
santacruzkidsdentist.com
We are seeing NEW PATIENTS! Dr. Jackson provides comprehensive dentistry in a caring environment for children of all ages. We are preventive-dentistry oriented and very thorough in our evaluations and consultations. Our office provides individualized care for your child’s specific needs. We have a 24-hour emergency service available for all of our patients. Dientes Community Dental Care
1830 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz 1500 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz 100 Pioneer Street, Suite D, Santa Cruz 1430 Freedom Blvd., Suite C, Watsonville dientes.org
Serving Santa Cruz County for over 30 years, Dientes is a trusted non-profit dental provider offering full-service care for children, adults, and seniors. Our expert team includes pediatric dentists who specialize in caring for kids, and we’re proud to provide compassionate, bilingual care – Se habla Español! Our focus is on delivering high-quality, dental care, including exams, x-rays, fillings, sealants and root canals. We accept Medi-Cal and we have affordable sliding scale fees for uninsured patients. Dientes: providing dignity through dentistry.
First 5 Santa Cruz County 831.465.2217
First5scc.org
First 5 Santa Cruz County promotes the healthy development of children from birth to age 5. Parents and caregivers of newborns can contact First 5 to receive a free “Kit for New Parents” with parenting videos, children’s books, information on caring for babies and local resources. First 5 also offers parenting support through the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, a worldrenowned program that strengthens families by building positive relationships. To find Triple P classes or quick tips, visit triplep.first5scc.org or facebook.com/triplepscc
• Wide selection of classes and camps for ages 5 and up! Visual & per forming arts, sciences and more!
• Homeschool and after -school programs
• Lively 2,000 sq ft studio
• 35+ live exotic animals
Legally Blind in Santa Cruz
BY LUCIA THOMAS
I am legally blind. When I was young, I had photochromic glasses, enlarged tests, and was always seated in the front of the classroom. I was bad at ball sports. I nodded along when someone pointed out a hawk in cloud cover or a coyote in the distance. I liked seeing photos of my corneas, my veins fanned out like aerial views of wet lands I’d seen on Animal Planet.
I entered high school and stopped wearing glasses. They made no difference anymore. I sat in the front of the class and took photos with my phone when the white board was too blurry. I got by fine. I turned fifteen and took a trip to an optometrist at Stanford. I stared at the descending letters on the other side of the room. The friendly nurse encouraged me. “Okay now the next row.” I started guessing by the shapes and then it was over. The doctor came in and told me I was one row away from being able to pass the DMV eye test. I would not be able to get a drivers license. I nodded and said I understood, that I hadn’t expected a better outcome. I looked out the window over Highway 17 on the drive home and tried not to let my mom see me cry. I am nearly 22. I moved away to college, lived in Memphis, New York, and Boston. I learned to navigate public transportation. If you stay at a bus stop longer than five minutes in Memphis, you will be approached by a man who wants you to get in his car. If you don’t avoid eye contact on Greyhounds in central Tennessee, a man will offer you a Budlight Tallboy, drink it himself when you decline, and get so drunk the driver kicks him off the bus. If you don’t watch the stops on the 2 Train in New
York City, you will end up in Wall Street realizing that place really exists. You should leave the subway when a man yells “fuck you white girl,” there will be another train. If you don’t bring gloves to the outdoor train station in Massachusetts, your fingers will be numb when the commuter rail is late. You should bring a book everywhere you go because you will be waiting for trains and buses often. I am now back in Santa Cruz navigating my hometown without a car. Here are my chronicles. I run often. I start from the Capitola Village and head toward The Point. The Village is an obstacle course; dodge the toddler and his ice cream, smile at the old man with a walker slowly crossing the bridge, look over your shoulder when you step into the bike lane to pass pedestrians, listen to the foreign languages and try to guess where the tourists are from, France, Germany, India. A man startles me when he yells, “nice pace.” I smile at him and pick up that pace.
The traffic is dense up Cliff Drive. Heat from the idling engines wafts over me. A woman stops me to say, “be careful honey, there are a lot of creepy men out today.” I laugh and turn my earbuds up. The ocean feels amazing in July. The sand left on my feet scratches in my socks on the run home. Water drips from my hair onto my shoulders and my chest reddens under the sun. A man in a small black Corolla slows down next to me and yells, “Hey girl.” He maintains my pace and blows a kiss. I throw my hands up and he drives away.
I ride a 2004 black cruiser that my mother bought after I was born. It is fast and off-road capable but has no
basket. I occasionally wear a helmet when Santa Cruz being rated the second most dangerous county for cyclists in the state feels more daunting. On expeditions to the beach access on 26th Avenue or downtown to report on a Food Not Bombs gathering, I sling a slouching leather bag over my shoulder full of the necessities; purse, towel, knife, notebook, pen, mini truck nuts and a speaker. On the hill up Cliff Drive that overlooks the Capitola Wharf I stand to peddle for momentum. The leather bag swings in front of me and I bang it with my knees. My speaker falls out. Cemetery Gates by Pantera rolls down the hill and I run after it as my bike idles.
When I need more space than my bag can provide, I take a large blue tricycle that I inherited from my partially paralyzed uncle. The trike is slow and nearly tips over on sharp corners but its basket fits a yoga mat and wetsuit. During my reduced cost first month deal at Hot Elevation Studios, I rode the tricycle there every evening. The hill up Wharf Road had me standing and occasionally, shamefully getting off and pushing. I would then enter the studio and do a spin class.
My bike and tricycle can only take me so far. On longer voyages to Watsonville, I take the bus. The route 1 picks me up in Soquel and I feed it two dollars. I love the bus. I listen to music and watch beach homes and cafes transition to apple orchards and strawberry fields.
Along with public transport and my legs, my family and friends are kind enough to give me rides. I am quite lucky, even more so to be forced to see our beautiful town slower.
Abigail Age 6
Aidan Age 7
Bailey Age 7
Bentley Age 22 months
Charlie Age 6
Elsa Age8
Gabriel Age 9
Jack Age 5
Luna Age 9
Melanie Age 6
Naya Age 6
Sadie Age 4
Eleanor Age 10
Lilly Age 6
Celestine Age 2 and Cadence Age 5
THURSDAYS
Small Waves Ocean School First Class Free, Thursdays at 10:15am or 1:15pm, indoor center at 500 Seabright, Suite 202, Avenue, Santa Cruz. smallwavesos.com
FRI 5
First Fridays Santa Cruz 5-8pm On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block party-like vibe, the multi-venue event provides an opportunity to discover local creative talent in a fun and festive setting. firstfridaysantacruz.com/event
First Friday Boulder Creek 5-8pm Enjoy a free monthly mountain street fair in the name of creation and community. There will be local art, music and food lining the sidewalks of downtown Boulder Creek. firstfridaybouldercreek.org
California Mermaid Lecture 6–7pm free – Hear the story of champion swimmer and surfing pioneer Dorothy Alden Becker, shared by her grandson Ed Guzman and surfboard shaper Bob Pearson. Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History, Santa Cruz. santacruzmah.org
FRI-SUN 5-7
Greek Festival Fri 5–10pm; Sat 12–10pm; Sun 12–8pm free – Savor authentic Greek cuisine and sweets, enjoy live music and dancing at this lively downtown tradition. Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church, Santa Cruz. propheteliassc.org
SAT 6
Arboretum Tour 11am-12:30pm The first Saturday of each month, the Arboretum offers a docent or staff-led tour of the Arboretum. Sometimes you will see New Zealand, South Africa, California, or Australia. Sometimes you might see combinations of several gardens, the developing World Conifer Collection, or Rare Fruit Garden. arboretum.ucsc.edu/ index.html
Roarin’ The Redwoods Car Show 9am–3pm – View classic cars, muscle cars, hot rods, and trucks from 1975 or earlier in a relaxed, non-judged show, plus food vendors and train rides. Roaring Camp Railroads, Felton. roaringcamp.com
Living History Dairy Ranch 11am–3pm free – Step back in time at Wilder Ranch with hands-on activities and demonstrations of early ranch life. Dayuse parking $10. Wilder Ranch State Park, Santa Cruz. parks.ca.gov/wilderranch
Multicultural Fair 12–4pm free –
Experience cultural diversity with live music, dance performances, food vendors, traditional fashion, art, and interactive booths. Skypark, Scotts Valley. scottsvalley.org
Fiesta en la Playa 12–4:30pm free –Celebrate Latino traditions with mariachi, folklórico dancers, a free beach concert, plus Boardwalk rides, games, and food specials. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz. beachboardwalk.com
Art Wine and Beer Festival 3–8pm free – Taste local wines and brews, browse artist and craft vendors,
enjoy music, dancing, auctions, and good vibes in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Crest Ranch, Bonny Doon. bonnydoonartandwinefestival.com
Educator Workshop with the Amah Mutsun 9:30 am–3 pm free – Local educators collaborate with tribal leaders to integrate native perspectives into K–12 curriculum in this immersive learning session. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, Santa Cruz. santacruzmuseum. org
TUES 9
Concert Series 6-8pm Every Second Tuesday of the month, head to the Wharf for live music and games. Jive Machine will perform this month Get a stamp validation from any business on the Wharf on Tuesdays and receive two hours of free. cityofsantacruz.com
WED-SUN 10-14
Santa Cruz County Fair times vary –Carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, stunt shows, concerts, a bilingual circus, tractor parades, and delicious fair food for all ages. Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, Watsonville. santacruzcountyfair.com
FRI 12
Movies on the Beach 7:309:30pm – Head to Esplanade Park bandstand stage and see a movie on the beach. This week’s movie is The Garfield Movie. It will begin at dusk. Bring your own low back chairs and blankets to get comfy. In Capitola. cityofcapitola.org/recreation/ page/movies-beach
SAT
13
Second Saturday on the Farm 11am3pm The Agricultural History Project’s 2nd Saturday events are like taking a step back in time. Grab your cowboy hat and put on your boots and come and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon on the farm! In addition to Summer Fun special activities, you’ll be able to milk a “cow”, drive-a-tractor, and enjoy crafts, hayrides, puppet show, antique engines and museum exhibits. Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic. aghistoryproject. org/2nd-saturday-on-the-farm
Swing Dancing 2-5:30pm You will find music, friends, and food while you
improve your dancing digs. All levels, and various styles plus a social dance with great ambiance are welcome! Go Join the fun on the Second Saturday evening of each month at the Santa Cruz Wharf stage. cityofsantacruz.com
SAT-SUN 13-14
Capitola Art & Wine Festival Sat 10am–6pm; Sun 10am–5pm free – Stroll the seaside village sampling wines, admiring fine art, enjoying live entertainment, and tasting gourmet food. Esplanade Park, Capitola. capitolaartandwine.com
SUN 14
Antiques Faire 8am-5pm The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and more. Visit the Antique Faire on Lincoln Street between Pacific and Cedar.
Artisan Faire noon-4pm Head to Abbott Square every second Sunday of the month for free live music while you browse handmade jewelry, soap, clothing, and much more! There is always something at these events that has your name on it! abbottsquaremarket.com/events
Hispanic/Latine Festival 12–6pm free – Celebrate Latin American roots and rhythms with arts vendors, music, dance, and food from across the region. Woodhouse Blending, Santa Cruz. woodhousebrews.com
SAT 20
Handcrafted Instruments Showcase 12–4pm free – Meet luthiers and try handcrafted stringed instruments, enjoy live music, and learn about the art of instrument making. Scotts Valley Community Center, Scotts Valley. scottsvalley.org
Boardwalk PRIDE Free – Celebrate LGBTQ+ community and culture with free live entertainment, giveaways, info booths, plus rides, games, and photo ops throughout the day. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz. beachboardwalk. com
MINDY ABRAHAM
GUiSC will attempt to update the calendar listings as needed; however, it is the responsibility of the organization listed to provide updated information. GUiSC assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are encouraged to check the accuracy of the information provided. Events that are free or cost less than $10 can be submitted for inclusion in the calendar. GUiSC does not guarantee that a submitted event will automatically be included. Preference is given for events of interest to children and/or parents. Submit entries at growingupsc.com/events/ community/add. Calendar entries must be received by the 15th of the month prior to the month of the event. To find out more about promoting your event further or including a paid event, email advertising@growingupsc.com.
Annual Coastal Cleanup Day
9 am–12 pm free – Join volunteers and partners like Save Our Shores and Pajaro Valley Arts in stewarding Sunset State Beach through hands-on coastal cleanup. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. santacruzmuseum.org
Aloha Outrigger Races 8am–1pm free – Watch novice paddlers compete in short-course outrigger canoe races, with hula performances adding to the island spirit. Santa Cruz Wharf, Santa Cruz. cityofsantacruz.com
SUN 21
Downtown Makers Market 10am-5pm
Visit the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market featuring 40+ local makers & artists every third Sunday of the month on the 1100 block of Pacific Ave. between Cathcart and Lincoln streets. scmmakersmarket.com
Castro Adobe Open House 10:303:30pm Learn about the contributions of the Indigenous people as skilled laborers for the Castros on Rancho San
the street, DJ music, and sweet treats. The Penny Ice Creamery, Santa Cruz. thepennyicecreamery.com
SAT 27
Taste of Soquel Festival 11am–4pm free – Sample local food, wine, and beer, enjoy live music, and let the kids play games at this community celebration. Congregational Church – Parish Hall, Soquel. tasteofsoquel.org
SAT-SUN 27-28
Beach Festival Sat & Sun 8am–5pm free – Two days of seaside fun with sand sculpture contests, chalk art, live music, nautical parades, and more. Esplanade Park, Capitola. capitolabeachfestival.com
Glass Pumpkin Patch 10am–5pm free – Browse a colorful harvest of hand-blown glass pumpkins and gourds in a charming heirloom garden setting. Live Oak Grange, Santa Cruz. chrisjohnsonglass.com
SUN 28
For Kids of All Ages: A Review of Hedgehog in the Fog
BY JOHN LOUIS KOENIG
Some stories unfold like fairy tales; others, like dreams. And then there are those rare, quiet works—like Hedgehog in the Fog by Sergey Kozlov—that drift gently between the two, casting a spell that lingers long after the last page is turned. Hedgehog in the Fog is a tender and enigmatic parable about fear, wonder, and friendship that resonates across generations.
The story begins simply. Hedgehog is making his usual journey through the forest to visit Bear for their evening ritual: sitting together counting the stars and drinking tea with raspberry jam.
But on this night, a fog descends. Thick, mysterious, and full of strange silhouettes, the fog transforms Hedgehog’s familiar path into a world both magical and eerie. As he wanders through it—encountering an owl, a mysterious white horse, and the whisper of something unseen—he becomes disoriented and frightened yet also enchanted. When he finally emerges and finds Bear, who has been waiting patiently with tea and jam, worried for his friend, the warmth of their reunion is as profound as the fog was bewildering.
It’s a reminder that no matter how lost we may feel, someone may be waiting for us in the dark with a cup of warmth. This return to intimacy, after such a haunting journey, restores balance and trust in the world.
Stylistically, Hedgehog in the Fog shares something in spirit with the works of Beatrix Potter or Kenneth Grahame, but there is a melancholy in its beauty, a tenderness in its uncertainties.
Hedgehog is not a bold adventurer or a mischievous rogue—he is cautious, thoughtful, prone to inner dialogue and trembling pauses.
What makes Hedgehog in the Fog endure is not just its gentle prose or its atmospheric illustrations, but its emotional precision. The story captures the essence of what it means to be small in a vast and unknowable world—to marvel at its beauty, to fear its shadows, and to carry on anyway. Hedgehog’s journey is one that all of us undertake, in some form or another: the passage through uncertainty toward the
For children, the story offers just enough suspense to thrill, but not to frighten. The fog is never malicious—it simply is. It’s a natural presence, like nightfall or snow, imbued with wonder and ambiguity. For adult readers, the fog can easily become a metaphor: for death, for the unknown, for anxiety, for the ineffable mystery of being alive. That is Kozlov’s quiet genius—his ability to write a story that reads like a fable for
Hedgehog in the Fog is, in its own quiet way, a masterpiece, a gentle, haunting classic, suitable for bedtime reading, rainy afternoons, or moments when you, too, find yourself
YESENIA
Parenting Through the Back-to-School Emotions
The new school year is here (already— how did that happen?). With it comes big transitions, complex emotions, and a lot of effort from all of us. As parents, it can feel overwhelming to navigate our children’s new milestones while also supporting them through the emotional waves that come with change.
My daughter recently started her second year of preschool, and let me tell you, the big feelings are very real. After a full day of constant stimulation, structure, and social interaction, it makes sense that she comes home needing to decompress. Home is where she can finally let her guard down and be her full, unfiltered self. And yes—cue the tantrums!
But even in the chaos, there’s something comforting about knowing she feels safe enough to release all those built-up emotions with us. I’m grateful to support her through this transition, no matter how loud or messy it gets. So as we settle into the new school year, let’s remember to care for both the physical and emotional well-being of our children, ourselves, and school staff.
This monthly article provides tips for families raising children, based on the world-renowned Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, available to families
in Santa Cruz County. If you have a question or idea for a future column, please email triplep@first5scc.org.
Dear Yesenia, School just started and it’s been rough for my kids in preschool, 3rd grade, and 6th grades. They’re excited to be with their friends, but it’s also been hard for them. We’ve had several big meltdowns already, and it’s like a domino effect. When one of the kids starts to fall apart, the other two start to whine, complain, or bicker. It’s non-stop. My partner and I are so exhausted it’s hard to be patient with them. Help! - Jason
Dear Jason,
There are several positive parenting strategies that could be helpful in this situation. Here are a few tips to try:
Normalize the big emotions. Many kids experience a mix of emotions at the beginning of the school year –happy, excited, confident, worried, nervous, overwhelmed, and more. Kids are adjusting to new school routines and expectations, while also trying to navigate friendships and the “social rules” at school. This can be stressful and overwhelming for a variety of reasons. Go back to the basics. Sometimes, kids just need time and space to feel their
emotions and settle into their routines and relationships.
Adults can help by going back to the basics of positive parenting: spend quality time together, talk with each other, and give affection and attention. Give each child your full, focused attention for brief but frequent amounts of quality time. Talk with them before and after school, during meals, and at bedtime.
These could be casual conversations about things they’re interested in, check-ins about their feelings and experiences, or something in between. Listen to any concerns or feelings they share, and acknowledge what they’re experiencing —“That sounds really hard,” or, “It’s ok to feel that way.” Give affection and attention to reassure them you care for and support them. During calm moments, teach them techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or coping statements (affirmations) so they can use these tools whenever they feel strong emotions.
Help kids problem-solve. If your kids share a concern, resist the urge to solve it for them. Instead, ask what they think could help and if they have ideas about what to do. If they want your assistance, help them define “the problem” – e.g., they don’t understand what their teacher is covering, or they’re having difficulty
making friends. Have them brainstorm several ideas of what they could do and help them think through the pros and cons of each option.
Encourage them to pick one idea to try, then ask questions, like “What could you do first?”, “What would you say?”, or “When could you try that?” to help them develop a concrete plan. Have them try their plan, then check in periodically to see what worked well, what could have gone better, and if they want to try another idea. This process helps kids develop problem-solving skills they can use in any situation throughout life.
Final Thoughts: As you support your children’s emotional health, remember to take care of your own physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Do something that helps you rest, recharge, and be a calm, patient, and positive parent.
Yesenia Gomez-Carrillo is the mother of a 3-year-old daughter and the Triple P Program Manager for First 5 Santa Cruz County. Scientifically proven, Triple P is made available locally by First 5, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency, and the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department. To find a Triple P parenting class or practitioner, visit triplep.first5scc.org, facebook.com/ triplepscc, or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465-2217 or triplep@first5scc.org.
Parents As Educational Advocates
BY SARAH NOFI AND STEVEN WEISS
Given the immense role that schools play in our lives, it’s no surprise that challenging school-related issues (e.g., homework, grades, bullying, truancy, and conduct) are often at the center of the discord between children and their parents. Fortunately, the Positive Discipline concepts and tools that parents practice at home can help mitigate those issues, and many of them are adapted for use in the classroom/school. Ultimately, though, parents are their children’s primary teachers and best advocates, and they can play an active role in their children’s educational experience. One way to do so is by educating teachers and school administrators about the benefits of Positive Discipline!
While not all educators use Positive Discipline, many schools now use Positive Behavioral Intervention Services (PBIS), a respectful school disciplinary system. Both PBIS and Positive Discipline interventions are designed to enhance academic and social behavior outcomes for students. Positive Discipline interventions, however, also address students’ emotional needs, entail an understanding of brain function, developmental stages, and the impact of trauma, focus on longterm goals, and help students develop cultural proficiency. Further, like PBIS, Positive Discipline helps to motivate students, but it does so through the use of encouragement (not rewards).
PSYCHOLOGY PAIRED WITH PEDAGOGY
Positive Discipline theories and practices are heavily influenced by psychologists Alfred Adler, Rudolf Dreikurs, and Abraham Maslow, all of whom promoted the idea that a sense of safety and belonging are fundamental needs for children to feel and do their best. Those theories and practices, however, are also inspired by educators and philosophers like Maria Montessori and Paulo Freire. Montessori understood that showing respect to children teaches them respect, that education should be individualized and holistic, that children are naturally motivated by their curiosity and interests, and that education of all types should help children learn social and life skills. Most interestingly, she asserted that when provided a supportive environment, children possess the ability not only to learn from others, but to teach themselves. Freire observed that children were undervalued, underestimated, and treated solely as recipients of education, and boldly asserted that children are co-creators of knowledge. In both the pedagogical and social context, Freire recognized that education should be a transformative practice of gaining cultural knowledge and effecting social change. In their efforts to instill in children a sense of influence and agency Montessori and Freire were fierce advocates for
children who helped shape Positive Discipline’s approach to educating and protecting them.
ADDRESSING CHILDHOOD ADVERSITY
For more than 30 years, psychologists have been studying what are referred to as ACEs (adverse childhood experiences such as abuse, neglect, abandonment, death, divorce, incarceration, mental illness, and substance use to which children are directly or indirectly exposed in their households).
As social determinants of health, these ACEs not only cause trauma, but profoundly compromise people’s health and well-being both during childhood and throughout adulthood. According to the Center for Disease Control, ACEs contribute to mental illness, chronic disease, substance abuse, poor educational and vocational outcomes, and, most notably, early death. Essentially, the presence of adversity—especially in young children—significantly affects human development.
TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE
Alfred Adler believed that immersing people in supportive environments could help them recover from adversity, a notion known as the equipotentiality of growth. With our modern-day understanding of trauma, healthcare providers, educators, social workers, and anyone working in human services are now widely practicing what is referred to as trauma-informed care.
As a trauma-informed approach, Positive Discipline not only supports children’s social-emotional development and learning, when implemented in the classroom, it helps mitigate the negative impacts of the trauma that results from ACEs.
In the context of educational environments, Positive Discipline works in concert with the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences)
HOPE: Safe and supportive relationships
PD: Encouragement, connection before correction, discovering the beliefs behind the behaviors, and special time
HOPE: Safe, stable, equitable environments
PD: Authoritative discipline (mutual respect and balancing firmness with kindness), modeling positive behavior, and practicing self-regulation (e.g., positive time-out)
HOPE: Opportunities for engagement
PD: Gemeinschaftsgefühl (e.g., planning and making positive contributions via job charts and class meetings)
HOPE: opportunities for emotional growth
PD: “I” messages, wheel of choice, and role-playing
Framework, which supports educators in providing what are referred to as PCEs (positive childhood experiences). This public health framework was developed to be adopted and adapted by people who regularly interact with children to ensure that they are exposed to PCEs on a consistent basis.
THE FOUR BUILDING BLOCKS OF HOPE INCLUDE:
Safe and supportive relationships
Safe, stable, equitable environments Opportunities for engagement Opportunities for emotional growth
The following is a list comparing The Four Building Blocks of Hope with Positive Discipline (PD) concepts and tools:
With children spending half of each day under the care and supervision of teachers, it’s important to remember that between their home and school environments, consistency promotes children’s emotional safety.
When disciplinary approaches at school vastly differ from what is practiced at home, such inconsistent messaging can lead to confusion, manipulation, and anxiety in children, all of which impede their learning.
Positive Discipline not only promotes consistency and safety both at home and at school, it incorporates the core principles of trauma-informed care so that children can feel and do their best and live happier, healthier, and longer lives.
Sarah Nofi and Steven Weiss are Certified Positive Discipline Educators
Why Aren’t Our Teens Ready for College—or Life?
BY SUSAN TATSUI-D’ARCY
Every June, I meet high school graduates and their proud parents beaming with excitement about the next chapter— college! But as I get to know these students, a concerning pattern emerges: most are woefully unprepared for life on their own. Many don’t know how to manage their time, advocate for themselves, or even decide what they want to study. And the truth is—it’s not their fault.
SCHOOLS AREN’T TEACHING INDEPENDENCE
In today’s educational landscape, we’ve become so focused on standardized tests, GPAs, and college admissions checklists that we’ve unintentionally stripped students of the tools they need to become independent thinkers and problem-solvers.
Teachers often provide detailed study guides that spell out exactly what students need to know for the test. While this may boost short-term grades, it discourages students from reading thoroughly, thinking critically, and asking deeper questions. Why bother learning more if it won’t be on the test?
When students are constantly told what to focus on and how to prepare, they lose the opportunity to explore topics based on curiosity and personal interest—both of which are essential for academic and career success.
OVER-SCHEDULED AND UNDER-PREPARED
Most high school students I work with are juggling intense schedules packed with AP classes, sports, music lessons, volunteer hours, and leadership roles—all carefully curated for college applications. But here’s the problem: colleges are now looking for depth, not breadth. They want students with genuine interests and focused passions— not “jack-of-all-trades” candidates who are stretched thin and mastering none.
These overbooked teens often don’t have time to reflect on who they are or what excites them. They’re getting the grades, checking the boxes, and keeping up appearances—but they’re not developing the life skills they’ll need in college and beyond: time management, self-discipline, resilience, and decision-making.
Their daily routines are micromanaged by well-meaning adults. Wake up. Go to school. Go to practice. Eat. Study. Sleep. Repeat. As a result, many don’t know how to plan their day, prioritize their tasks, or ask for help when things go wrong. Once they leave the structure of home and school, they often feel overwhelmed and paralyzed. MISMATCHED MAJORS & UNINFORMED DECISIONS
On top of this, many students feel pressure to choose “safe” majors—STEM
fields, business, or law—even if they have little interest or understanding of those careers. I’ve seen countless students choose a major based solely on job security, only to switch majors multiple times or graduate feeling disconnected from their future.
Worse, they often haven’t had the chance to explore these fields through internships, job shadowing, or hands-on experiences. They head to college with no clear idea of what their chosen career entails—or whether they’ll enjoy it. Do we really want our kids to commit to careers they don’t like—for the rest of their lives?
THE FALLOUT AFTER COLLEGE
You’d think they’d figure it all out by graduation—but many don’t. I frequently meet college grads who come to me for help applying for jobs because they don’t know how to present themselves, write a résumé, or articulate their strengths. They’ve done the coursework, but they haven’t been taught how to navigate the adult world.
On the flip side, employers report that they spend 6–15 months training new grads—not just in technical skills, but in basic professional behavior. Many graduates don’t know how to listen actively, see the big picture, or analyze situations to solve problems.
WHAT CAN PARENTS AND EDUCATORS DO?
Encourage unstructured time: Let your teen have downtime to think, explore, and pursue personal interests—not just scheduled activities.
Support curiosity over grades: Ask them what they’re learning—not just what their grade was.
Let them fail (safely): Mistakes build resilience. Don’t rush in to fix everything.
Teach time management: Have them plan their own weekly schedule— balancing school, activities, and personal time. It’s transformative.
Expose them to careers early: Encourage job shadowing, internships, and informational interviews well before college.
Our teens need more than AP classes and a polished résumé. They need life skills, self-awareness, and independence. If we start now, we can raise a generation of young adults who are not only collegeready, but truly life-ready.
Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy is the founder of Merit Academy (one-on-one classes and Merit Educational Consultants (college and educational advisory). She has written books on projects, free child care, education, and parenting. Susan hosts TEDxMeritAcademy for students to present their innovative projects and solutions. In 2019, she was California Mother of the Year.
INFORM INSPIRE IGNITE
Financial Firsts
Money Milestones Worth Celebrating
These quiet moments may not get confetti, but they shape confident, money-smart kids.
From a baby’s first words to their driver’s license photo, parenting is full of memorable moments. But what about the lesser-known “firsts” that quietly shape who they become—like opening their first savings account or making a budget for the first time?
At Bay Federal Credit Union, we’ve seen that these small financial steps make a significant impact. When kids are empowered to understand and manage money early on, they grow into teens and adults who are confident, prepared, and thoughtful with their finances.
Here are six meaningful money milestones in your child’s journey—and how to celebrate each in a way they’ll remember.
FIRST PIGGY BANK DEPOSIT
Not just a jar—it’s their first personal savings tool.
Putting coins in a piggy bank may seem like child’s play, but this small habit lays the foundation for future saving. It’s their first experience watching money accumulate over time.
Make it memorable: Decorate the piggy bank together and label it with a savings goal (“My Skateboard Fund” or “Disneyland Money”). Let them see how even a few cents add up.
FIRST PURCHASE WITH THEIR OWN MONEY
They’ll never forget the day they bought that toy, snack, or book—by themselves.
Using saved money teaches value in a tangible way. It’s a powerful moment when kids realize the cost of something and the pride that comes from earning it.
Parent tip: After the purchase, ask them how it felt. Would they make the same choice again? This opens the door for reflection and smarter future spending.
FIRST BUDGET
Planning a party, managing allowance, or tracking gift money? That’s budgeting!
A budget gives kids power: the power to decide, prioritize, and plan ahead.
Start simple: a notebook or app where they divide money into “Spend,” “Save,” and “Give.”
Try this: Let them plan the budget for their own birthday party or school shopping list. Their sense of ownership will grow, along with their skills.
FIRST PAYCHECK
The “Wow, I earned that!” moment changes everything.
Whether it’s a summer job, babysitting gig, or lawn-mowing side hustle, the first paycheck is a rite of passage. It’s also a perfect time to introduce gross vs. net pay, taxes, and how to read a pay stub.
Financial pro tip: Encourage them to set a percentage aside for savings before spending kicks in.
FIRST ACT OF GIVING
Big hearts can make big financial choices—even on a small budget.
When kids donate to a cause they care about, they learn empathy and purpose alongside financial discipline. Whether it’s dropping coins into a charity box or using allowance money to buy food for a shelter, giving is powerful.
Activity idea: Let them choose one local nonprofit to support each year with the money they save. Then, they can visit or research the organization together.
FINAL THOUGHT:
You don’t need to throw a party for each of these moments (but hey, why not a cupcake for the first deposit?). What matters is that your child knows you’re
proud of them and that managing money isn’t a mystery; it’s a skill they can build one milestone at a time.
If your child is reaching one of these money milestones—whether it’s their first savings goal, first paycheck, or first debit card, Bay Federal Credit Union is here to help. We offer accounts for kids and teens designed to grow with your child. Easy online tools and friendly in-branch support make banking feel safe and empowering. Opening an account together can turn a simple errand into a teachable moment they’ll remember for life.
Visit www.bayfed.com or stop by your nearest branch to get started. Let’s celebrate your child’s financial firsts together.
The Heart of Co-Regulation
BY TOVAH PETRA KOLODINSKI
We are at a turning point in how we care for children—especially neurodivergent ones. For too long, developmental support has relied on behavior management, compliance, and control. But what if the real transformation begins with connection?
Instead of asking, “How do I get this child to behave?” we could ask, “How can I help this child feel safe enough to thrive?”
In my work with neurodivergent children—in homes, schools, and community settings—I have seen that what they need most is relational safety. They long to be met by someone who can hold their emotions, understand the nuances of their communication, and accept them fully— without rushing to fix, shut down, or shame them. Equally important is giving them the space and support to regulate their own nervous systems, so they can build lasting skills to feel grounded from within.
WHY REGULATION COMES FIRST
When a child is dysregulated— overwhelmed or shut down—they cannot learn or engage. Their nervous system is doing what it was designed to do: protect. In that protective state—fight, flight, freeze, or fawn—they cannot access logic, language, or connection.
Many behaviors we label as “problematic”
are actually nervous system responses. When we regulate ourselves first, we invite children into co-regulation. Emotional safety is built not through demanding calm, but through embodying calm. Not through punishment, but through presence.
A key part of this approach is attuning to subtle cues—tiny shifts in posture, gaze, or facial expression—and responding in a way that meets the child where they are. Regulation is not about compliance; it is about creating a relationship in which the child feels reliably safe.
RELATIONAL ENGAGEMENT IS EVERYONE’S JOB
One of the most powerful shifts we can make is to stop thinking of emotional development as a job only for specialists. Teachers, paraeducators, occupational therapists, counselors, and parents all play a role in a child’s relational ecosystem. The tone you use.
The way you respond to dysregulation. The presence or absence of empathy in a challenging moment.
All of it shapes a child’s nervous system, self-worth, and capacity for trust. When all adults recognize their role in co-regulation, we create a culture where no one says, “That’s not my job” when a child is struggling. We come closer. We listen with our whole bodies. We hold space for the child—and each other.
PRACTICAL WAYS TO BRING COREGULATION INTO DAILY LIFE
Co-regulation can be woven into everyday moments. Attuning to a child’s nervous system and responding with empathy allows them to feel seen, understood, and safe:
• Start with your own regulation. Take a slow breath before responding. Children feel our nervous system state more than they hear our words.
• Observe micro-signals. Notice subtle shifts in posture, gaze, or expression as cues to their emotional state.
• Lower your voice, not your boundaries. Calm, steady tones bring a child back into safety while maintaining limits.
• Offer a regulating anchor. Gentle touch, rhythmic movement, or simply sitting nearby invites reconnection.
• Name what you notice. “I see your hands are tight and your face is frowning. I am here with you.” Naming without judgment helps a child feel seen.
• Practice during calm moments. Regulation skills build best through play, joy, and connection—not just during crises. These are not “fix-it” tools; they are ways of showing up so safety and connection become the norm. Integrating attunement into daily routines helps children learn
that the world can be predictable, safe, and supportive.
A NEW STANDARD OF CARE
Regulating to relate is not a checklist—it is a daily practice. It asks us to slow down, stay grounded, and offer the presence many of us needed ourselves as children. It is a radical shift, but a deeply human one. When co-regulation and emotional attunement become shared language across homes, schools, and clinics, we step into something profound. We become not just educators, providers, or parents—we become relational stewards of the next generation.
In that shared space, we find something powerful:
A culture rooted not in control, but in connection.
And from that place, everything begins to grow.
Tovah Petra, MA is a Somatic Practitioner and the creator of the Whole Family, Whole Child approach, where she helps parents of neurodivergent kids create emotionally safe, attuned, and connected homes—while also nurturing their own nervous systems, relationships, and intimate connection along the way. Learn more at www.tovahpetra.com
ALL ABOUT ANIMALS
Helping Pets Handle Back-to-School Separation
BY SARAH KRUMMEL
It’s not that our dog, Ethan, can’t be left alone. He can. He just doesn’t think it’s a good idea. In fact, we’re pretty sure he’s actively judging us as we walk out the door. Luckily for us, he prefers the silent treatment when he’s upset and deals with our departure by quietly curling up on the couch next to the front window, monitoring the street for the distinctive hum of our cars. For other dogs, and some cats, this is decidedly not how they express their feelings about your departure.
Studies show that one in five dogs will exhibit some sort of separation related problems in their lifetime and not just in newly adopted animals. Separation related behaviors can range from the mild (short bouts of whining) to the intense (think destroying that expensive rug you splurged on before pre-adoption). And the cause is not always anxiety. Dogs and cats may be experiencing boredom, illness/discomfort, or frustration as well as anxiety related to your departure.
WHY IT HAPPENS
Many events can trigger separation related problems, and unfortunately, the back-to-school shift is among
the most common. A house that was lively all summer and offered numerous opportunities for cuddles abruptly becomes quiet, and for pets that transition can be hard. Early life experiences may serve as a basis for some of the problems, but the key question remains: what need is your pet trying to meet through this behavior?
WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE
Classic signs include barking or howling, destructive chewing, attempts to escape, and accidents indoors despite being house-trained. Less obvious signs may include pacing, drooling, or refusing to eat or drink when you’re away. The common thread: these behaviors occur only when the pet is alone.
HOW TO HELP
The underpinning of addressing separation related problems is teaching your dog that being alone is safe and enjoyable. This often means starting with very short absences, sometimes just seconds, and gradually increasing your time away. Avoid emotional goodbyes and greetings, which can heighten your dog’s sense of departure and return. A quick phrase (“I’ll be back”) with a calm pet creates a routine without raising their adrenaline.
Help Animals through our Extra Mile Fund
Sydney arrived with matts so severe that she could not fully open her mouth. When our clinic team sedated and shaved her, they also discovered three fish hooks deeply tangled in her coat. After her successful medical grooming, Sydney was able to move more freely and even enjoy the comforts of a soft cuddly bed!
We are the county’s only open intake Shelter, which means we never say NO to any Santa Cruz County animal in need. That also means we give care to many sick, injured and neglected animals like Sydney. Please make a donation today!
Mental enrichment is equally important. Food puzzle toys, chew items, and access to a safe, comfortable space can help a dog self-soothe. Playing soft music or leaving on talk radio may reduce stress for some dogs. For Ethan’s first months with us, Alexa played Bach every time we left. If your pet likes screens, there are long-form YouTube videos and live feeds and some shelters stream their playgroups, offering entertainment and supporting shelter fundraising. Make sure the screen content is enrichening but not over stimulating for your dog.
In more severe cases, professional help can make the difference. Certified trainers using positive reinforcement can design a gradual desensitization plan, while veterinarians may recommend medication to lower baseline anxiety and make training more effective.
INVOLVING THE WHOLE FAMILY
Parents can help children understand that a dog’s separation related problems are not “bad behavior” but a signal of big feelings. Kids can take part in short, calm departure drills or be responsible for prepping the dog’s “departure treat” before school. This supports the pet and teaches children empathy and patience.
THE SHELTER CONNECTION
If your dog struggles with separation related problems, the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation can connect you to local resources, including trainers and behavior workshops. If you’re
Meet Chloe - What could be better than coming home to a dog greeting you with full-body wiggles and a stuffed toy? Six-year-old Chloe, a 50-lb white and brindle pittie, is ready to bring joy, wags, and companionship to her next family. After losing her longtime home when her dad became ill, Chloe has shown incredible resilience. She loves hikes, walks, soft toys, and cozy spots to nap (yes, she snores!). Chloe enjoys male dogs, is a bit nervous with females, and would happily be an “only dog.” With her zest for life and loving nature, Chloe is pure sunshine waiting for her person. Adoption special happening in September, go to scanimalshelter.org more information or follow us on social media @ officialscanimalshelter
often at home, fostering a dog can be transformative for both the animal and for the family who eventually adopts them. Understanding and addressing the needs of our pets can take time; but in acknowledging the behavior for what it is, the animal expressing an unmet need, we not only improve the lives of our pets, but show our children that patience and persistence are what deepen our connections to those we love.
QUICK TIPS: ADDRESSING YOUR DOG’S SEPARATION RELATED PROBLEMS
Start small: Begin with 30-second departures and build up slowly.
Keep goodbyes casual: Emotional farewells can increase stress.
Offer enrichment: Consider puzzle feeders, a frozen treat or shelter YouTube videos before leaving.
Create a safe space: A cozy bed or crate where your dog feels secure.
Sound therapy: Soft music or talk radio. Get help early: Consult a positive reinforcement trainer or your vet.
For a list of positive reinforcement trainers in our area, contact: jing@ scanimalshelterfoundation.org
Sarah Krummel is a Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation board member and a Program Specialist for Santa Cruz City Schools. Connect with her at sarah@ scanimalshelterfoundation.org
As the largest and most comprehensive animal care and rescue organization in the community, the open-admission Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter takes in about 7,000 animals each year. Government funding is limited, so we depend on our community to sustain our life-saving and pet homelessness prevention programs. The Shelter’s sister nonprofit Foundation helps to cover the costs for core services such as animal control; licensing and rabies vaccinations; safe housing for strays and surrenders; and intervention in animal abuse cases. The Foundation is also proactive in tackling root causes of animal overpopulation and suffering by offering prevention programs, exceptional medical care, humane education and community outreach.
Freedom Bakery Celebrates 50 Years of Business
BY ISABELLA BLEVINS
Watsonville’s Freedom Bakery–the oldest family-owned bakery in the Monterey Bay region–is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer, marking five decades of providing the community with cakes and other desserts.
The bakery was founded in 1975 by Tony Liu, a Taiwanese immigrant who came to the United States alone, leaving behind his wife and two sons.
“I was nine months old when my dad left. When we met again, I was ten, ” said Tony’s son, Paul Liu. Paul and his wife, Anna, are now the second-generation owners of Freedom Bakery.
Early into their marriage, Paul and Anna decided to leave their jobs and help Paul’s father run the bakery. At the time, the bakery was known for its logo cookies. Anna said that they were one of the first bakeries to take the screenprinting technology that had recently been invented for cakes and refine the designs, making them more precise and able to fit the size of a cookie. This innovation allowed the bakery to fulfill large corporate cookie orders, including one for Target, to commemorate the opening of a new location in Canada in 2017. Anna estimated that Freedom Bakery made about 10,000 cookies for that event.
However, the demand for logo cookies dropped significantly during the 2008 financial crisis. The loss of corporate orders caused the bakery to lose 40% of its revenue in just one month.
To remedy the situation, Paul and Anna decided to pivot towards expanding their wedding cake operations, which became an increasingly lucrative area of their business. Photo cookies and other types of cakes have maintained their popularity as well.
During the early days of the bakery, Tony and his wife, Mary, worked long days to keep the business afloat.
“Work really is what my parents did,” Paul said.
Today, the bakery has more than 15 employees. Last summer, they opened a second location in Monterey.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary, the owners have come up with various customer appreciation opportunities, such as social media giveaways and raffles. Paul and Anna will also throw Tony a retirement party next month with friends, family members, and past bakery employees.
According to Paul, Tony announced that 50 years was a “nice, round number,” and saw it as an appropriate time to step back. Paul chuckled as he said he suspects his father will still be at the bakery pretty often after his retirement.
The owners see the 50 year milestone as a prime opportunity to launch what they refer to as the “next phase” of the business: giving back to the community. They plan to start a scholarship to assist graduating seniors from local high schools in affording college.
Paul and Anna also said they had reached out to some of the elementary schools in Watsonville to invite classes of younger students to take a field trip to the bakery. “Kids are engaged through learning hands-on,” Anna said.
The bakery field trip will be offered to students from kindergarten to third grade and would show them how a small business works. Anna said that the curriculum they will follow during each field trip would based on the grade level of the visiting class. She said that lower grades would learn about the role of the bakery in the community and would also be shown things like how to use different measuring tools and the role of spelling and colors in dessert-making. Higher grade levels would receive a more advanced tutorial that includes learning about the economic relationship between producers and consumers and the different jobs and roles that exist within a bakery. In addition to a tour of the bakery, Anna said that the students would have the opportunity to decorate cookies to take home, along with a free apron.
“We also wanted to touch on civil duty so a taste testing is where students can learn how their vote matters,” Anna said.
The field trip would cost $8 per student and the proceeds will help fund the college
scholarship that Paul and Anna plan to award to high school seniors.
“Education is very important to us,” Paul said. He explained that his previous career as a CPA has been useful for managing the bakery. Anna has a background in marketing, which has come in handy for one of her roles as Freedom Bakery’s social media manager.
The Liu’s fondly recalled a time years ago when they invited their daughter’s elementary school class to visit the bakery. Paul remembered watching the kids
discover in real time that mixing different colors of frosting made new colors.
“Education helps you across all aspects,” Paul said, and referred to this idea as “cross-training.”
The owners plan to extend their new programs to various PVUSD schools first because the Watsonville and Pajaro community is “so loved by the bakery,” Anna said. Paul said he is often asked what his favorite part about running a bakery is. He said that with each cake they make, “For that one day, we make someone’s life a bit better.”
COMMUNITY IMPACT
Jasmine Nájera’s Journey of Service and Leadership
Her leadership at PVPSA reflects a lifelong mission of mentorship, resilience and service
Jasmine Nájera’s path has been deeply rooted in the values of service, community, and empowerment. As someone who knows the heart of Santa Cruz, she is dedicated to nurturing its spirit through her leadership as CEO of Pájaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance (PVPSA). Her journey is a powerful testament to resilience, mentorship, and social justice—shaped by a strong family legacy of giving back and uplifting others.
From an early age, Jasmine knew that her life wouldn’t be just about personal success—it would be about helping others. Inspired by powerful role models in her family, she quickly recognized her calling to serve. In her household, service wasn’t just a value; it was a way of life, and that philosophy has shaped Jasmine’s career over the past three decades.
Her journey led her to the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC), where she graduated in 1997 with a degree in History. It was at UCSC that she found the support and inspiration that would guide her for years to come.
After earning her degree, Jasmine dove into the world of social work, beginning her career with Fenix Services, where she worked with youth under juvenile probation supervision. A year later, she transitioned to Children’s Behavioral Health with the County of Santa Cruz, where she honed her focus on counseling services and spent eight years serving the community.
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But Jasmine’s drive to further her education and expand her knowledge led her to the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) in 2005. Her time at UT Austin was pivotal.
Jasmine recalls, “My Aunt took me to visit UT Austin when I was 11 while she was in graduate school there, and it formed a positive impression in my mind. So, I moved out to Texas to attend their social work program.” It was a move that not only shaped her
professional path but also solidified her belief in the power of mentorship and positive role models.
After graduating in 2005, Jasmine returned to California, working in the San Francisco Bay Area at Juma Ventures, where she supported youth in financial literacy, college and career development, and counseling. But despite the opportunities in the Bay Area, Jasmine always knew that her heart was in Santa Cruz.
After several years, she returned to her roots and worked for Santa Cruz County Behavioral Health in adult services, primarily in the jail system. However, her ultimate goal was always to work with youth, and when the opportunity arose, she seized it.
Then, the pandemic hit. The world shut down, and Jasmine found herself navigating the challenges of remote work—a shift that felt out of sync with her hands-on, communitycentered approach—this proved to be a challenging adjustment.
But her passion for service didn’t waver, and in 2022, she found a new calling at PVPSA. Jasmine’s journey with PVPSA quickly evolved into a leadership role. She fell in love with the organization’s commitment to community-centered care, its dedication to youth development, and the staff’s passion for making a real impact.
In October 2022, she officially took the helm as CEO, a role that has allowed her to continue her lifelong mission of serving her community while supporting the development of others in the social work field.
PVPSA serves children, youth, and families in the Pajaro Valley region, providing a wide range of services, including mental health support, substance-use prevention, health education, and family-centered programs. In her role as CEO, Jasmine has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s workforce development initiatives, which focuses on hiring
directly from the community and offering mentorship and training for the next generation of service providers.
“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is mentoring and growing our own staff,” she says. “We are proud to support the supervision and clinical growth of staff for our larger community. If we are going to continue to provide services, we need to make sure we are building pathways for people from our own community to be the ones providing those services.”
Jasmine’s dedication to community service was recognized on a national level when she joined Congressman Jimmy Panetta as his guest to the 2023 State of
the Union address in Washington, D.C.
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I’m so grateful Congressman Panetta uplifted our organization and the importance of youth behavioral health needs and services.”
Jasmine’s journey has come full circle. From growing up in Santa Cruz to becoming a leader in the social work field, she continues to live out the values of service that were instilled in her from a young age. Whether it’s providing mental health services to local youth or guiding the next generation of social workers, Jasmine’s legacy is one of service, strength, and a deep love for her community.
FASHION FORWARD
Why Energy Outshines Fashion Every Time
BY MALIA FORT
Have you ever been out and caught yourself getting distracted due to another’s mesmerizing outfit? Or is it the mesmerizing person that’s distracting? I’ve always seen models wearing pretty average-looking clothing, or the worst thing possible, and yet they pull it off. Other times, I have witnessed the exact opposite. When someone’s outfit is almost wearing them instead. No matter whether it is technically a good outfit or not, it is dictated by the wearer. Here we have a few individuals who simultaneously donning distinctive garments intuitively along with their energy.
June
Ruth is a UCSC student. She is dressed in a lovely, casual yet classic look. She is wearing brown leather braided sandals from a grocery store. Paired with low-rise light wash jeans. With a thrifted vibrant red corduroy button-up jacket, accessorized with a lovely silver pin from her mom. Hidden under is a simple Target tank top and a Trader Joe’s Tote bag. I love how this effortless outfit easily catches the eye. Ruth herself oozes poise energy which assists the classic allure of red. Matching her energy and clothing. Ruth prefers simple statements, which help maintain a timeless look. Her favorite colors to wear are red and all different types of denim. She has challenged herself to stop buying clothes and make do with what she has. Ruth pushes herself to make out of the box wardrobe pieces through challenging her creativity. Ruth agrees that the person makes the clothes. Someone can wear something so differently than another. Everyone styles belongings differently. It is beautiful to see yourself make something fresh by looking at it through a different lens.
This is June, they are Alumni. Wearing a pastel shaded ¾ sleeve shirt with delicate details of a teacup, along with layering words and symbols. Personally, this delightfully delicate shirt caught my attention. This shirt was gifted from their partner. It stands out so subtly. With a nice baggy black wash denim jean from Motherlode. Held together with a quirky platform converse. June’s go to color’s in attire is any earth tone. Their calming vitality is equivalent to their choice in color. They advise when you look in your closet to pick what is comfortable as well as impressive. They say social media helps inspire them. But June knows a lot of trends are due to Fast Fashion, which uses underpaid workers under abusive circumstances. They prefer upcycling and thrifting clothing instead. June as well states the person wearing the outfit is in charge of carrying their clothing as well as the other way around. They say you can’t really be one without the other. You have to be confident as well as have a pleasant outfit on to trigger attention.
Xavier
Xavier is a UCSC student. Wearing a monochrome minimalistic utilitarian silhouette. The wide shoulder jean motorcycle jacket is what really grabbed my attention. I enjoy the balance of simple and functional, adding depth and dimension through a nice acid wash and high amounts of pockets. This jean motorcycle jacket is from a Yeezy and Gap collaboration. Underneath is a reliable black T shirt, double layered from Los Angeles Apparel. With black loose heavy wash jeans from Four by Four that is held up with a light leather belt with floral stamping, that was thrifted. Black combat boots from season four Yeezy and a black Yeezy bag. Lastly with a thrifted grey baseball cap. Xavier enjoys vibrant primary colors along with the classic black and more specifically, a faded denim, depending on the day. He advises to go through a point in your life where you try anything. Push through the awkward phase and experiment with your clothing every day. Thrifting is a game-changer. Social media has a huge impact on trends which can be just as good as it is bad. It is good to find inspiration, exposed to fresh ideas. But it can easily become over washed, Xavier recommends to dabble but do not indulge, always do what you enjoy. He prefers minimalistic and avoids unnecessary amounts of accessories, yet he appreciates how an accessory can make an outfit if mastered correctly. Xavier says when it comes to your dressing it depends on how you carry yourself. You can see a beautiful outfit but the person wearing it is timid and doesn’t hold themselves confidently. Meanwhile someone in a more simple less thought out clothing could stand out more due to their radiation of sureness. You can have clothes that represent who you are and your emotions, use that to define yourself through the clothes.
