Mendo Lake Family Life April 2024

Camp Jobs

Great for teens

Celebration ideas

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10

Features

10 Summer Camp Jobs

How being a counselor can benefit teens.

14 Autism Myths and Truths

Clearing up misconceptions during awareness month.

16 Home Buying Tips

How to avoid common house hunting pitfalls.

20 Reduce, Reuse And Recycle

Simple ways to celebrate Earth Day.

22 Screen Time to Green Time

Time in nature can combat screen overuse.

April 2024

Every Issue

6 Dear Reader

7 Cooking with Kids

Perfect Pasta

8 Bits and Pieces

Leap Into Spring at Ribbit Exhibit

Walk to Raise Abuse Awareness

Tiptoe Through the Rhododendron

Learn About First Known African-American Resident

Take a Lighthouse Tour

Get Away for Earth Day

24 Calendar of Events

Parents ‘Wine’ for Night Out

30 Humor Break

Take Your Child to Work Day

Dear Reader

Sharon Gowan Publisher/Editor Sharon@family-life.us

As the school year draws to a close, families set their sites on summertime activities. While relaxation is essential, parents also want to look for productive ways to fill their children’s days. Sleepaway and day camps are taking registration now, and older teens who might want a job as a camp counselor should be applying. Check out Summer Camp Jobs (page 10) for the benefits of these roles.

Summer vacation also lends itself to increased time on devices for kids. Read about ways to exchange screen time for green time (page 22). And in that same spirit, check out our simple green activities for celebrating Earth Day this month (page 20).

School may be wrapping up, but it’s important to keep learning. In recognition of World Autism Month, this edition offers some clarity toward common misconceptions about autism (page 14).

When classes end, parents may be looking at moving to different homes. We’ve got you covered with ways to avoid some common home-buying mistakes (page 16). As always, check out our Bits & Pieces (page 8) for activities focused on spring. Last but not least, remember Take Your Child to Work Day is April 25. Our favorite stay-at-home dad shares what that means for him (page 30).

Marketing/ Sales/Events

Patricia Ramos

707-205-1539

patty@family-life.us

Features Editor

Angel Jenkins

angel@family-life.us

Production Manager

Donna Bogener

production@family-life.us

Contributing Writers

Kimberly Blaker

Shannon Carpenter

Katy M. Clark

Zoup! Good, Really Good®

Janeen Lewis

Sandi Schwartz

Billing

Jan Wasson-Smith

Publishing Office

P.O. Box 351 Philo, CA 95466 (707) 205-1539

Perfect Pasta

Spice Up Spring With This Twist

Courtesy of Zoup! Good, Really Good®

Whether served as an appetizer, side dish or even the main course, what better food for springtime than a chilled pasta salad? Simple prep steps of guided chopping, crumbling and dicing make pasta salad a great dish for teaching little ones in the kitchen. Add some extra flavor to your pasta salad by preparing noodles with Zoup! Culinary Concentrate™ . Paleo and Keto friendly, Zoup! products are also GMO- Free, Gluten Free, and do not contain any artificial ingredients or preservatives. With layered savory notes, the vegan base brings umami goodness and added plant-based protein to pastas, grains and rice dishes. “Umami” translates to “essence of deliciousness” in Japanese, and means meaty or savory flavor. Serve this vocabulary lesson to little chefs! ❖

Founded by 20-plus year soup and spice industry veterans, Zoup! got its start opening soup-focused restaurants and was encouraged by customers to create a broth that was good enough to drink. Zoup! Good, Really Good® products are available in over 13,000 retail locations nationwide, plus online. Visit ZoupBroth.com for more details.

Spring Pasta Salad

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Serves 8

4 quarts water

5 Tablespoons Zoup! Good Really Good® Culinary Concentrate

1 16-oz. box of Rotini pasta

1 bell pepper, diced

1 cup (approximately 2-3 stalks) celery, chopped

1 cup salami, diced

6 oz. feta cheese, crumbled

½ cup Italian dressing

1. In large pot, bring water to boil. Stir in Zoup! Good, Really Good® Culinary Concentrate until dissolved. Add pasta and cook according to package.

Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool.

2. While pasta cools, prep vegetables. Stir vegetables, salami and feta cheese into pasta. Toss with dressing.

3. Cool completely in fridge. Serve and enjoy!

Leap Into Spring at Ribbit Exhibit

Sonoma Botanical Garden presents Ribbit Exhibit, a whimsical, family-friendly presentation of more than 20 larger-than-life frog characters placed in vignettes throughout the Garden. Each with their own name and story, the enchanting human-sized sculptures by artist Andy Cobb include Zenny meditating on a leaf on the Garden’s Pond, Bentley and his tortoise friend Tortuga ambling along the California Oaks Trail, dapper Floyd and his elegant partner Grace cutting the rug amongst the flowers, and many others. A roster of public programs such as guided tours, live music, family scavenger hunts, and family fun days are planned while the exhibit is on view, April 5-31. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. daily (allow one-two hours to enjoy park). 12841 Sonoma Hwy., Glen Ellen. Learn more at sonomabg.org/visit/ribbit-exhibit

Tiptoe Through the Rhododendron

The Rhododendron Walk at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens features more than 1,000 blooms. Learn more about the Gardens’ signature collection, including over 124 species of rhododendrons and 315 taxa, many developed by the region’s prolific rhododendron growers. Tours are free with the cost of regular Gardens admission and completely free for current MCBG members. Availability for each tour is limited; early arrival recommended. Come prepared for the weather with appropriate layers. Also, bring drinking water and a camera if desired. 1–3 p.m., April 5, 12, 19, 26. MCBG entrance, 18220 N. Hwy. 1, Fort Bragg. Learn more at tinyurl.com/4jvhct7a

Walk to Raise Abuse Awareness

As part of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Lake County Office of Education presents a Children’s Advocacy Walk and Festival April 13 and 27. Following the theme “Release Your Inner Dragon,” there will be booths providing free goodies, resources, education, prizes and surprises. In the past year, Lake County Child Welfare Services received about 1,500 reports of abuse or neglect. Currently, LCCWS reports that 72 children/youth in Lake County are placed outside their parents’ homes due to abuse or neglect. Let us stand together to create safe and nurturing environments for all children. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. April 13: Library Park, 200 Park St., Lakeport. April 27: Austin Park, 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. For more information, email asantana@lakecoe.org or visit tinyurl.com/ysy38tam

S onoma Botanical Garden Ribbit Exhibit

Children’s Advocacy Walk and Festival

Rhododendron Walk

Learn About First Known African-American Resident

Nathaniel Smith arrived in Mendocino County in the 1850s and is believed to be the first African American to settle on the coast. His life story is revealed through photos, clippings, and artifacts in this Kelley House Museum exhibit. Smith was at one time known to every man, woman and child on the coast and this exhibition presents details of his life set against the history of California’s treatment of people of color. The exhibit will also include collages by Nathaniel Smith’s great-great granddaughter, that were inspired by her family history. Cards made from her collages will be on sale in the museum for $5/each. Throughout April, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. 45007 Albion St., Mendocino. Learn more at kelleyhousemuseum.org/nathaniel-smith.

Get Away for Earth Day

Celebrate Earth Month with complimentary scheduled group adventures at Mar Vista Farm + Cottages during your stay. Prior to the arrival of European settlers, the land around Mar Vista was part of the Pomo territory. For a period of time, a chicken ranch operated on the grounds, followed by cottages being built to house visiting fishermen, then vacationing families. This year for Earth Day, guests can experience beach tide pooling, beehive checks, redwood forest walks and garden tours, curated to nurture relationships with the natural world. Always included on weekends are beach yoga, meditation and daily Goat Gab, Bunny Love and Chicken Chats. Valid over the weekends of April 20 or 27 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Learn more at marvistafarmandcottages.com

Take a Lighthouse Tour

Join volunteer docents at Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park for the unique opportunity to climb to the top of the lighthouse tower and stand next to the historic 1909 Fresnel Lens. These tours happen only a few times a year, and all funds raised from these tours go right back into taking care of this park. Tours are first-come, first-serve, no reservations, at $10 per adult and $5 per child (under 18). Children must be over 42 inches tall to climb the stairs (no babies or pets allowed). Tour guests must be able to climb three sets of steep ladders and there is a half-mile walk from the parking lot to the lighthouse. First tour begins at 11 a.m.; last tour at 2 p.m. on April 6 and 7 at Point Cabrillo, 13800 Point Cabrillo Dr., Mendocino. Tours last 15-20 minutes. For more information, call 707-937-6123 or email info@pointcabrillo.org.

Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park

Mar Vista Farm + Cottages Earth Day

Nathaniel Smith

Summer Camp Jobs

10 Reasons Teens Might Love Being a Counselor

By Janeen Lewis

Did your teenager love summer camp as a child? Does he or she need a job but can’t work during the school year? Maybe you’re ready for your teen to get employment experience but still have some carefree time outdoors away from electronics. Day or sleepaway camp is a place for teens to transition to the world of the employed. The paycheck is nice, but being a camp counselor has other rewards, too.

Learning Responsibility

As

much as teens sometimes protest about it, learning responsibility is the gateway to more independence as they grow into adults. Camp is an ideal place to build accountability because teens are in charge of other kids or activities, but they are still being supervised. If they work at a

sleepaway camp, they must keep their cabin quarters neat and guide younger children to do the same. If they work at a day camp, they must show up on time, care for children and lead activities. Working at camp gives teens a glimpse into the adult world with the guidance they still need.

Being a Role Model

Do you remember a teen you looked up to when you were a kid at summer camp? Maybe he or she helped you perfect your back stroke, taught you how to throw a curve ball or gave good advice for dealing with disagreements between friends. Teens can connect to kids in ways adults sometimes can’t, and when teens work at camp, they experience the fulfillment of helping younger kids meet their goals and develop new skills.

Refined Relationship

Skills From fun-centered sports competitions between rival teams to getting chores done for inspection, counselors and campers have to work together. Being able to do this teaches teens to hone their communication and interpersonal relationship skills. Some camps even offer staff training and morale building activities before camp starts to increase awareness and create discussion about how to get along with others.

Improved Time Management

Teen counselors have to be on time to meals, the morning meeting at the flag pole, and activities they lead. They’re also responsible for gently prodding their campers to be punctual. If they are in charge of a lesson, craft or game, they must plan ahead and make sure they have all the supplies ready and set up on time. These lessons will benefit them as they enter college and the work place.

Tech-free Time

Most day camps and sleepaway camps either have a no device policy or have only short scheduled tech times. Camp provides a digital detox through nature, sports, and face-to-face socialization.

Preparation for Being Away at College

If your teen works at a

sleepaway camp, he or she may get a taste of what college life is like. He or she will be responsible for meals, getting up on time or using a coin

Working at camp is great experience to put on a resume when your teen is ready to enter the professional arena.

laundry. These are all valuable lessons that will prepare him or her for college. Also being away from home for an extended period of time can take some adjusting to and it can create some homesickness. Teen camp counselors have experienced these feelings and dealt with them before going to college.

Sharing Talents and Skills

Is your teen an athlete? An artist?

A nature enthusiast? Can he or she dance, write, or program computers? Camp is an ideal place for teens to share strengths. I served as a camp counselor when I was in college, and it was the first time I realized I had a knack for teaching. It was the gateway to becoming a teacher, even though I was a journalism student at the time. Camp introduces teens to opportunities that maybe they hadn’t considered.

Saving on Summer Expenses

One of the advantages of working at an overnight camp is that in addition to a pay check, meals and lodging are usually provided. Staffers’ work and life all happen at camp, so gas use is

minimal. Teen counselors chaperone camp trips to amusement parks and museums which are usually covered by the camp. Granted, these covered expenses do require responsibility and work, and are not solely carefree outings, but they are positive perks for a summer job.

Resume Building Working at camp is great experience to put on a resume when your teen is ready to enter the professional arena. Camp experience is beneficial if your teen wants to teach or coach, but working at camp also builds communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills, all worthy resume additions that may catch a future employer’s interest.

New Appreciation for You Being a teen counselor is indeed hard work. It involves stamina, patience, and responsibility. Oh, and teen counselors must also teach, guide, and care for children younger than themselves. It sounds a bit like parenting, right? Teens who are camp counselors may begin to recognize how hard parenting is. With that recognition, they may have a new appreciation for all their parents do.

Being a camp counselor is a great start for teens who want to join the world of work. If your teen is interested in beginning the adventure that comes with being a camp counselor, you can find more information at the American Camp Association website at acacamps. org/jobs ❖

Janeen Lewis is a writer, teacher, and mom to Andrew and Gracie. Her summer as a camp counselor gave her invaluable skills for adulthood.

with disabilities welcome.

Autism Myths and Truths

April is Autism Awareness Month

By Sarah Lyons

Autism is a developmental disability that is caused by differences in how the brain functions. People with Autism may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in different ways.”1 About 1 in 59 children have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) according to the CDC.2 While autism may be common, there are myths and misinformation circulating that are simply untrue. This article will correct some of the most common misconceptions.

Myth No. 1: Autism is caused by vaccinations. One of the common misconceptions about ASD is that childhood vaccinations, such as MMR, cause kids to develop autism. According to the CDC and the Institute of Medicine, there is no link between vaccines and autism.

Myth No. 2: People with autism are geniuses. There is a common misconception that all people with autism are geniuses, can do difficult math problems in their heads, or have a special gift. It is true, some people with autism do have unique talents and gifts.

However extreme cases, like the one seen in the movie Rainman, are rare. As our understanding of autism progresses, it is acknowledged that many people with autism have high intelligence, great attention to detail, and view the world in a

What is encouraging are the positive changes that can come from behavioral therapy that helps kids develop communication and social skills …

different way that is valued in work environments. This opens a new set of opportunities in the workforce for people with autism.

Myth No. 3: People with autism don’t want friends. It is true that many people with autism struggle to understand social norms which may cause them to feel isolated or to value alone time more than group settings. The myth here is that people with autism do not want friends or value close relationships, they do. Everyone needs friends, attention, love, and acceptance and all people deserve it as well. People with autism may need friends that are understanding and supportive of their social struggles and may benefit from support groups that help them build social skills.

Myth No. 4: People with autism don’t experience emotions. Those who have autism may find it hard to understand other people’s feelings and read body language, but that does not

mean they do not have emotions themselves. They have feelings of joy, sadness, anger, and frustration just like everyone else. They may have trouble expressing their emotions or show them differently than others but they still experience normal highs and lows.

Myth No. 5: Autism can be cured. Over the years, as ASD diagnosis have become more common, there have been many ideas about how it can be cured. Some examples include removing gluten from the diet, taking vitamins, eliminating mercury from the diet, and other fads. Parents typically turn to these ideas because the are concerned for their children and desperate for a cure. Studies

have shown that none of these fads have worked and autism cannot be cured. What is encouraging are the positive changes that can come from

People with autism may need friends that are understanding and supportive of their social struggles and may benefit from support groups that help them build social skills.

behavioral therapy that helps kids develop communication and social skills and give people the tools to succeed in school and the workforce.

People with autism do respond differently to many situations but as we learn more about ASD, we find that not all of the characteristics are negative and people can be happy, successful, and maintain healthy relationships with support and understanding from people around them.

Sources:

1 cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html

2 cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/concerns/ autism.html

Sarah Lyons is a mom of six children, including 9-year-old triplets. While she is an extrovert, she is a wife and mother to several introverts. She strives to encourage her kids to step out of their comfort zones while also celebrating their unique personalities.

DADS, STEP UP AND BE THE SUPPORT FOR YOUR CHILDREN THAT YOU LONG TO BE.

Many fathers resist assisting their children on the autism spectrum.

Some are too stubborn or macho to accept the autism diagnosis. And once upon a time, Harry Psaros was that guy.

Harry wants to be a voice for dads in the autism fight.

Home Buying Tips

Avoiding

Costly Mistakes When House Hunting

By Kimberly Blaker

Buying a home begins with the exciting prospect of finding your perfect space and the exhilarating idea of new beginnings. As the hunt progresses, you may experience anxiety over whether you’ll find a home within your budget—or because you’ve fallen in love with a home outside your budget.

When you do make an offer, you may be worried you offered too little, too much, or find that another buyer beat you to the punch. You’ll also experience disappointment if your offer is rejected.

However, once you’ve closed on your home and are confident you made the right decision, you’ll rejoice. These recommendations can help you stay on course in finding your perfect (or near-perfect) home.

Before You Shop

Make a list of your objectives. Are you trying to

reduce your work commute? Is there a particular school district you’d like your kids to attend? What about proximity to shopping or recreation?

Consider features you want. Would you like a larger garage, updated kitchen, ample closet space, or a home that’s turn-key ready? Be as detailed as possible, noting if each item is a must-have, prefer-to-have, or nice but not necessary.

When you find a home that wows you, consider your must-have criteria. Maybe you’ll decide your

wishes have changed, or you’ll be reminded to continue searching for a home that better suits your needs.

How Much Can You Afford?

Prepare a budget and figure out how much you can comfortably spend each month on mortgage and interest payments, property taxes, and homeowner’s insurance. Also, consider whether there’ll be a substantial difference in your monthly utilities. Include an allowance for home repairs and maintenance.

A knowledgeable, skilled inspector will look at every aspect of the home … big and small.

Get pre-qualified through your bank or a mortgage company. Despite what you think you can afford, a lender will ultimately determine your maximum budget. Don’t risk getting your hopes up on a particular home until you know how much a lender will loan you. Most Realtors won’t show homes to prospective buyers until they’ve been pre-qualified.

Starting Your Search Now

you’re ready for a Realtor. Working with a real estate agent has multiple advantages. Realtors have access to the MLS system, the database in which all homes listed by real estate agencies appear. They’re only able to access MLS for listings within their own region, however. If you’re moving to a new area, choose a Realtor in the area where you’ll be relocating.

Another important reason to work with an agent is so you’ll have someone to advance your interests. If you find a home and want to put in an offer, in many states, you can ask the listing agent to write up and submit your offer. In states that allow this arrangement, the agent becomes a dual agent. A dual agent is required to treat both parties with fairness and honesty. In this capacity, the agent cannot solely advance your interests because the agent is also working for the seller. A couple of factors to consider are customer reviews and whether the real estate agent is willing to sign an Exclusive Buyer’s Agency Contract. Under an Exclusive Buyer’s Agency Contract, the Realtor represents you,

the buyer, rather than both buyer and seller.

The agent should ask you plenty of questions to gain a solid understanding of what you’re looking for in a home, and needs

Most Realtors won’t show homes to prospective buyers until they’ve been pre-qualified.

to be available to show homes during your hours of availability. Be cautious of high-pressure tactics to get you to sign an exclusive contract. If you’re not comfortable with the

agent, be prepared to say you need time to think about it.

The Home Inspection

Once you’ve made an offer, getting a home inspection is crucial. This will help ensure you’re making a sound buying decision. Unfortunately, too many homebuyers learn the hard way that inspectors are not required to be licensed or have any special skills or training in many states. Do your homework before hiring an inspector. Ask about their qualifications and how long they’ve been in business. Also, check with the Better Business Bureau and online reviews.

A knowledgeable, skilled inspector will look at every aspect of the home, including windows,

What is a State Preschool?

foundation, attic, roof, plumbing, electrical components, and much more. Your inspector should alert you to all defects, big and small, and note any aging features that could require repair or replacement in the not-so-distant future.

Final Advice Regardless of what the bank says you can afford or if an agent pushes you to go higher, you’re the best judge of what’s really within your budget. Remember, your financial well-being and lifestyle are on the line.

If you see flaws that’ll require costly repair, weigh it out carefully before making your offer.

Don’t get impatient but don’t drag your feet. Make sure a home meets enough of your criteria that you can live happily for some time to come. If it is a desirable home or a buyer’s market, it might get snatched up before you act.

If you see flaws that’ll require costly repair, weigh it out carefully before making your offer.

Finally, once you make an offer, try not to get your heart too set on the home until it’s been inspected. That way, if the report comes back reflecting costly repairs, you’ll be able to make a wise decision on whether to proceed or back out. ❖

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online store, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera, and more at sagerarebooks.com .

Reduce, Reuse And Recycle

30 Easy Ways to Mark Earth Day

By Katy M. Clark

On April 22 my family celebrates Earth Day along with millions of families around the world. Started in 1970, Earth Day encourages us to appreciate the environment and become more aware of issues threatening it.

Here are 30 ideas that everyone from preschoolers to teenagers can use to reduce, reuse, and recycle this Earth Day.

Little Ones

Teach kids to turn off the water when brushing their teeth. Recycle! Have young ones place items such as paper and tin cans into dedicated recycling bins rather than the trash.

Transform trash into treasure. Preschoolers can create works of

art reusing and repurposing bottles, yogurt cups, leftover fabric scraps and the like.

Demonstrate to little ones how to cool your house on hot days by pulling drapes closed instead of dialing down the air conditioning. Likewise, bundle up in layers on cooler days rather than turning up the heat.

Model turning the lights off when leaving a room.

Have kids play with eco-friendly toys and games, like wooden

puzzles dyed with non-toxic stains or balls that are BPA- and phthalate-free.

Make bird feeders out of natural ingredients like pine cones and birdseed.

Engage them in planting a garden and growing vegetables your family can eat.

Get a houseplant or two and talk about how plants improve the air we breathe.

Started in 1970, Earth Day encourages us to appreciate the environment and become more aware of the issues that threaten it.

School-age Kids

Elementary school kids can help with shopping for recyclable products. Have them look for labels that say recycled content, pre-consumer and post-consumer. Kids can place small recycling bins in each bathroom in the house. Bonus points if you can get them to empty them each week into the curbside recycling bin!

Show them how to use reusable rags instead of paper towels to clean up messes.

Create a compost pile, on the kitchen counter or in your backyard. Kids can throw in egg shells, coffee grounds, and most food scraps and wait for them to turn into rich soil for use with plants outside and in.

Encourage them to sign up to pick up trash from community spaces like playgrounds, parks, or beaches. Let kids make signs in every room of the house that remind family members to turn off the lights. Use reusable water bottles rather than single-use plastic bottles.

Plant a tree at school or home. Plant milkweed native to your area to help the monarch butterfly population.

Tweens and Teens

Bigger kids will enjoy visiting thrift shops to nab pre-owned pieces that otherwise may have ended up in landfills.

Encourage them to use reusable bags when shopping.

Have them unplug electronics and chargers when not in use.

They can also turn off their desktop or gaming monitors when they aren’t using them.

Elementary school kids can help with shopping for recyclable products. Have them look for labels that say recycled content, pre-consumer and post-consumer.

Ask them to devise ways your house can collect rainwater for use on houseplants or flowers.

Turn off the lights when leaving the room. (You’ll probably still be

working on this one with teens even though you’ve been preaching it since they were little!)

Recycle old cell phones. Make sure to take out SIM cards and erase the phones first, usually with a factory reset. Teens may also need to remove the battery and research how and where the battery can be recycled.

Use a timer to conserve water during showers.

Remove makeup with cleanser and reusable wipes instead of disposable wipes.

Host or volunteer at an e-waste collection event. ❖

Katy M. Clark is a writer who embraces her maternal imperfections at experiencedbadmom.com

Screen Time to Green Time

Balancing indoor, outdoor activity

By Sandi Schwartz

Children are spending an exorbitant amount of time glued to their electronics these days. The latest survey by Common Sense Media found that American teenagers spend an average of six and a half hours of screen time per day on social media and other activities like video games.

Screen time continues to increase as kids are online more during the school day and for socializing with their friends. With this boost in screen use, we have also seen a rise in mental health concerns with tweens and teens. The increase in young girls’ digital technology use, for example, is often linked to the rise in depression and suicide since 2012 in the U.S.

One way to balance screen time is to get outside and engage with nature, which has been shown through scientific research to have

an abundance of health benefits. All of us need healthy breaks away from screens throughout the day to recharge and get back to a balanced state, both mentally and physically. Spending some time outside will help kids relax and then come back energized and inspired as they continue with their day. If they do not get these necessary nature breaks in between school, homework, and their other commitments, they could burn out before they even have the chance to receive their high school diploma.

Every year, the organization Fairplay organizes Screen-Free Week to shine the light on the importance of taking breaks from screens. Screen-Free Week is an annual invitation to play, explore, and rediscover the joys of life beyond ad-supported screens. During the first week of May, thousands of families, schools, and communities around the world will put down their entertainment screens for seven days of fun, connection, and discovery.

Even though this week is about turning off screens, Screen-Free Week is not just about going without technology. As we all know, much of our lives these days depend on screens: Paying bills, ordering food, filling out forms before visiting the doctor, keeping up with family and friends, communicating with our children’s school, our own work, our kids’ schoolwork, and more.

Instead, let’s spend time during Screen-Free Week recognizing how we can start building a nature habit to turn some screen time into more green time. An hour once dedicated to YouTube becomes an hour spent outside on a family bike ride; 10 minutes scrolling on social media turned into 10 minutes taking care of a pet or plant; a movie on a rainy afternoon is replaced by time spent reading and learning about nature.

You can celebrate Screen-Free Week at home, in your school, in your community, or anywhere—just put down those entertainment screens and choose an activity that helps you connect to nature because it will help you and your loved ones feel happier and calmer.

Here are some other ideas for replacing screen time with green time all year long:

• Instead of eating dinner in front of the TV, take your meal out back or on your balcony.

• Instead of planning birthday parties where kids watch a movie or play video games, suggest getting a group together for a barbecue, swimming, outdoor sports game, or an exciting adventure like camping, boating, kayaking, river rafting, mountain biking, or doing a ropes course.

• Instead of your children being locked away in their rooms with their computer doing homework, suggest they head outside to get some of their work done while enjoying the fresh

air. Maybe they even want to draft an essay the old-fashioned way with a pencil and paper to get a much-needed screen break.

… let’s spend time during Screen-Free Week recognizing how we can start building a nature habit to turn some screen time into more green time.

• Instead of your kids making TikTok videos, get their creative juices flowing while engaging with nature outside by doing activities like nature photography, drawing or painting nature scenes, nature journaling, writing nature poetry

and stories, and even listening to music while relaxing in the backyard.

• Instead of hosting family holiday dinners at your dining room table, set up your gathering outdoors.

As you can see, there are so many ways to swap screen time for green time. Get started by taking the Screen-Free Week Pledge. You will also find other amazing resources over at fairplayforkids.org, including a Screen-Free Bingo Game and a list of 101 Screen-Free Activities ❖

As the founder and director of the Ecohappiness Project, Sandi Schwartz’s mission is to inspire families to feel happier and calmer. Her parenting book and children’s book are available at ecohappinessproject.com

April Calendar of Events

Parents ‘Wine’ for Night Out

Parents can experience an afternoon away from the kids at the first-ever Lobster Boil Classic at Langtry Farms Tasting Room. Enjoy a crustacean luncheon paired with signature single-vineyard Genevieve Chardonnay, available exclusively at the farm. Weather permitting, the event will be held outdoors where guests can take in the views of Guenoc Valley and the Tephra Ridge Vineyard. Tickets are priced at $125 per person, but Winegrowers Club members receive a $25 discount when using their membership email during checkout. April 27 at Noon–3 p.m. 21000 Butts Canyon Rd., Middletown. Call (707) 995-7521, email tastingroom@langtryfarms.com or visit langtryfarms.com/event/ lobster-boil-classic for more details.

Monday 1

FREE Virtual Boeing Starliner Crew Flight Test. NASA’s Boeing Starliner Crew Flight Test is launching the first flight of the CST-100 Starline. Registration will provide communications about launch schedule changes, activities, & access to curated launch resources. Register: tinyurl.com/4n5vve63.

Tuesday 2

Circle time at Mendo LEAP. Weeky themes dances, songs & stories designed for 0–5 yrs. Included in 2-hour general play admission. $15/ child. Membership options available. Each child gets 2 free adults. Tuesdays & Wednesdays. 10–11 a.m. Mendo Leap. 203 S. State St., Ukiah. mendoleap.com/calendar

FREE The Blue Zone Project

Walking Moai Mendocino College Coast Center. A moai is a group of 5–8 people who walk together for an hour, once a week. Sponsored by Blue Zones of Mendocino. Tuesdays. 11 a.m.–Noon. Runs thru Apr. 30.

Meet-up: Mendocino College. 1211 Del Mar Dr., Fort Bragg. tinyurl. com/484vewze.

FREE The Blue Zone Project

Walking Moai in Hopland. A moai is a group of 5–8 people who walk together for an hour, once a week. Sponsored by Blue Zones of Mendocino. Tuesdays. 4–5 p.m Please note: Must arrive at 3:45 p.m. for check-in, or you will not be able to join. Runs thru Apr. 6. Hopland Research Center. 4070 University Rd., Hopland. tinyurl.com/bdryw6fa.

FREE Family Transitions Triple P Virtual Support Group. For parents who are experiencing personal distress from separation or divorce, which is impacting or complicating their parenting. Via Zoom. Hosted by Triple P. Program of First 5 Mendocino. Tuesdays. Register for Zoom Link: tinyurl.com/2ytaa58d

Wednesday 3

FREE Virtual Positive Parenting Group. Hosted by Triple P. Program of First 5 Mendocino. Thursdays.

10 a.m.–noon. Runs thru Apr. 30. Register for Zoom link: tinyurl. com/2ytaa58d

FREE Shade Canyon Playgroup. Waldorf-style story, crafts or nature walk. For ages 5 & younger. Held first & third Wednesday of each month. Apr. 5 & 17: 10–11:30 a.m. Peace & Plenty Farm. 4550 Soda Bay Rd., Kelseyville. shadecanyon.org/calendar.

FREE Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group. Facilitated support group for talking & sharing ideas & experiences. Hosted by MCCP Family Resource Center. Wednesdays. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. MCCP Family Resource Center. 244 N. Franklin St. (corner of Redwood St.), Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/yc3j8kjp

FREE The CanTeen. An all inclusive teen group, hosted by MCCP Family Resource Center. Wednesdays. 2–4 p.m. MCCP Family Resource Center. 244 N. Franklin St. (corner of Redwood St.), Fort Bragg. tinyurl. com/ycm8a6ez.

Lobster Boil Classic

Thursday 4

FREE Operation Tango Mike Open House Packing Party. Join in the fun & prepare care packages for deployed military personnel. Free food provided. 5–8 p.m. Thursdays. 5 p.m.: Social. 6 p.m.: Packing Party. Umpqua Bank. 805 11th St., Lakeport. thebloom. news/big-calendar

FREE Virtual Poetry Reading & Open-Mic. Share your own poetry or just listen in. In-person & via Zoom. Held the first Thursday of the month. For Zoom link: DanHess@ hessd@mendocinocounty.org. 7–8 p.m. Fort Bragg Library (Community Room). 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. fortbragglibrary.org/event.

Flamenco Performance. Direct from Spain, an evening of Flamenco

featuring dancer Savannah Fuentes & singer/guitarist/pianist Diego Amador Jr. $12–$52. 8–9:30 p.m. Caspar Community Center. 15051 Caspar Rd., Caspar. casparcommons.org/calendar.

Friday 5

FREE RCRC Autism Parent Virtual Support Group. Hosted by Austism Specialists. Zoom Meeting ID: 995 2860 5123. Held the first Friday of the month. tinyurl.com/ycky4bsd.

FREE Community in Unity. Children’s Advocacy Walk. Bring awareness to Child Abuse Prevention Month. Two Locations: 10 a.m.–noon: Casa Office. 340 N. St., Ukiah, & 2–4 p.m. Willits Library. 390 E. Commercial St., Willits. facebook. com/cacmendocino.

FREE Family Fun at Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center. Open gym. Kids younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Activities for the whole family to enjoy. Fridays. (indoor soccer only) 4–8 p.m

Sundays: Apr. 19 & 28: Noon–4 p.m. Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center. 1640 S. State St., Ukiah. ukiahrec.org/ mentor-team

FREE 2024 Pride Prom Planning Committee. Ages 14–25 welcome. LGBTQ+ Youth Voices is planning Lake County’s second Annual Pride Prom. Looking for assistance. In-person & via Zoom. Meetings held the second & fourth Fridays of the month. Apr. 5 & 19: 4–5 p.m. 150 S. Main St., Lakeport. Register for Zoom link: tinyurl.com/5n9yr74k.

Friday Family Skate Night. $5. Parent or guardian must sign for kids younger than 18. Fridays. 5–7 p.m. Old Recreation Center. 213 E Laurel St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl.com/3hbpbezp.

FREE Deep Roots, Spreading Branches. Opening Reception. Exhibit features the history of the Krenov School of Fine Woodworking. Musical entertainment & refreshments. 7–9 p.m. Grace Hudson Museum. 431 S. Main St., Ukiah. gracehudsonmuseum.org.

Saturday 6

First Aid & CPR Training in Spanish. Capacitación en primeros auxilios y RCP en español. $95–$125. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Alex Rorabuagh Recreation Center. 1640 S. State St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/4995vjmr

Lighthouse Lens Tours at Point Cabrillo. Lens tours. Tours are first-come, first-serve, no reservations. $5–$10. Children 42” & taller only. Tours last 15–30 minutes. Held first weekend of each month. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. 45300 Lighthouse Rd., Mendocino. pointcabrillo.org/visit/events.

FREE Family Day with 123 Andrés. A bilingual family fun festival feel with refreshments, face painters, workshops led by local teaching artists, & a variety of activities led by Sonoma State education students. 12:30–5 p.m.: Family activities. 2 p.m.: Performance by 2024 Grammy Winners, 123 Andrés. Green Music Center. 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. Tickets required: gmc.sonoma.edu/ free-family-day.

FREE Family Field Programs. DIY Throw ‘n’ Grow Seed Balls to grow your own wildflowers. Includes hands-on activity stations & a Wildflower Scavenger Hunt. Held the 1st Saturday of the month. 1–3 p.m. Mendocino Museum. 400 E. Commerial St., Willits. tinyurl.com/ mr38m4rt.

FREE Preschool Dance Party. Ages 0–6 yrs. Celebrate the Week of the Young Child. 2–3 p.m. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. fortbragglibrary.org/event

Thursday 11

FREE Noyo Center Talks Science. Sea Mammal Education Learning Technology Society (SMELTS) is a solution-based organization that designs and builds tools and

technologies to reduce the negative impact of human activitiy on marine life. Join speakers Zack Klyver and Richard Riels via Zoom. 6–7:30 p.m. Register for Zoom link: tinyurl. com/4dmnksuv

Saturday 13

FREE Spirit Run & Walk. In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Presented by Redwood Valley Rancheria ICWA Program. Info booths & artisan crafts vendors. 8:30 a.m.: Registration walk/run. 9 a.m.: Run/walk. 9:30 a.m.: Booths open. Redwood Valley Rancheria Village Learning Center. 250 Road I, Redwood Valley. tinyurl. com/4fny4p5d

child abuse. Walk at 10:15 a.m. Festival at 10:30 a.m. Games, music, food, & more. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Library Park. 200 Park St., Lakeport. tinyurl. com/3c8txwfj.

Mendocino County Museum

Behind-the-Scenes Tours. Visitors are invited to tour areas rarely open to the public. Tour included with regular admission. Limited space. Reserve a space: museum@mendocinocounty. gov or call 707-234-6365. For adults & children ages 8 & over. $2.75–$7. Family-Pack: 2 Adults & dependent children $16. Apr. 13 & 16: 2–3 p.m. Mendocino Museum 400 E. Commerial St., Willits. tinyurl. com/2tcb5ajb

Tuesday 16

FREE Family Fun at Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center. Open gym. Kids 12 & younger must be accompanied by an adult. Activities for the whole family to enjoy. Apr. 16 & 30. Sundays: Noon–4 p.m. Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center. 1640 S. State St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/ yyh6n4vx.

Wednesday 17

FREE Car Seat Installation. Certified techs will install car seat or inspect if installed correctly. Mendocino County residents may qualify for a free car seat for children ages 0–12 yrs. 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Three

Locations: Public Health, 1120 S. Dora St., Ukiah. Justice Center, 125 E. Commercial St., Willits. Avila Center,

764 S. Franklin St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl. com/bddk57jt

Thursday 18

FREE Parent Group. Guests speakers, I.E.P. training, support. Snacks provided. Hosted by the Redwood Coast Regional Center. Held the 3rd Thursday of the month. 6–7 p.m. RCRC Lakeport Office. 180 3rd St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/yk48vdu7

Friday 19

FREE Twin Pine Casino & Hotel Job Fair. Walk-in interviews. Noon–4 p.m. Twin Pines Casino. Event Center. 22223 CA-29, Middletown. facebook. com/twinpinecasinoandhotel

Lake County’s Talent Showcase Competition Semi-Final. Appropriate for all ages. Local performers vie for the title of the Best in Lake County. Diverse talents from singers to magicians. Top five finalists proceed to the Gala on May 3. Visit www.LakeportRotary.org to vote. 7 p.m. $30 pp. Soper Reese Community Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. tinyurl.com/mw9vh4r4.

The Big Bounce America. An action-packed family-friendly day featuring the world’s biggest bounce house. $22–$45. Parking $10. Apr. 19–22. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. Full schedule: Age levels/times: thebigbounceamerica.com.

Saturday 20

FREE Ukiah Community Yard Sale. Vendor: $35 space. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. cityofukiah.com/communityyardsale.

FREE Honoring Earth Month. Complimentary group adventure: Tide

pooling, beehive checks, redwood forest walks, & garden tours. April 20 & 27: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Mar Vista Farms. 351010 Hwy. 1, Gualala. tinyurl. com/2wcx3xuh.

FREE Morning on the Farm. Children under 7 & their parents are invited to Summerfield’s Biodynamic farm. Visit the animals, hear a story, & meet early childhood teachers. 9:30–11 a.m. Summerfield Waldorf School & Farm. 655 Willowside Rd., Santa Rosa. Register: summerfieldwaldorf.org.

FREE Earth Day Ukiah 2024. Educational Booths, performances, & family-friendly activities. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Todd Grove Park. 600 Live Oak Ave., Ukiah. cityofukiah.com/earthday

FREE Point Arena Lighthouse Wind & Whale Celebration. Food sales, live music, & more. Free shuttle bus will run from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. with several stops throughout the town and out to the Lighthouse. Admission is free to the Light Station Indoor & Outdoor museums. Tower Tours: For adults & children ages 4 & over. $5 pp. 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Point Arena Lighthouse. 45500 Lighthouse Rd., Point Arena. pointarenalighthouse.com

FREE Annual Almost Fringe Festival. Art Openings, craft fairs, live music, kids activities, & more. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Downtown Point Arena. pointarena.net/almost-fringe-festival.

FREE Noyo Food Earth Day Festival. Live entertainment & music, fun educational kids’ activities, informational workshops, & bicycle-powered smoothies. Plants, artisan crafts, & food available for purchase. Noon–4 p.m. Fort Bragg High School, The Learning Garden.

300 Dana St., Fort Bragg. tinyurl. com/2p8yefz2

Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking Glass & What Alice Found There. Presented by The Friends of the Library & the Ukiah Players Theater. $35 Adults. $15: Under 12 yrs. Tickets include sandwich, dessert, & beverage. Wine available for purchase. 7 p.m. Ukiah Players Theatre. 1041 Low Gap Rd., Ukiah. Tickets: ukiahplayerstheatre.org

Sunday 21

FREE Kelseyville Artisan Market. 20+ local designers & makers, along with treats & lunch items for purchase. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Kelseyville Event Center. 5245 3rd. St., Kelseyville. tinyurl.com/5xc3urm3.

Harmony Keepers Do Joni Mitchell

At Sunday Brunch. 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Blue Wing Restaurant. 9520 Main St., Upper Lake. tinyurl.com/bd3e2cwb.

Opus Chamber Music. Featuring the Cayanan Duo Ensemble, performing pieces spanning the long partnership of cello & piano chamber music. $25. 3 p.m. Preston Hall. 44831 Main St., Mendocino. Tickets: symphonyoftheredwoods.org

Wednesday 24

FREE Walk Through the Grades Tour. Take a peek into Waldorf classrooms. Check out the campus & working biodynamic farm. Adults only. 9 a.m–11 a.m. Summerfield Waldorf School & Farm. 655 Willowside Rd., Santa Rosa. Register: summerfieldwaldorf.org.

FREE Blooming Kindess: Living in Harmony. Hour of storytellings & arts. Hosted by Ukiah Library

& Instilling Goodness Developing Virtue School. 10:30 a.m. Ukiah Library. 105 M. Main St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/52cwyasy

Saturday 27

FREE Children’s Advocacy Walk & Festival. Join the fight to prevent child abuse. Walk at 10:15 a.m. Festival at 10:30 a.m. Games, music, food, & more. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Austin Park. 14077 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. tinyurl.com/5ccpdbyx

Sonoma County Home & Garden Show. Resources for remodels, home offices, energy upgrade, landscaping, accent pieces, & more. Purchased online: Family 4-pack, $25 (includes parking Gate 4). At the gate: $7 pp. Ages 12 & under: Free. Parking: $15. Apr. 27: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Apr.

28: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. Hall of Flowers Bldg. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. sonomanorthbayhomeexpo.com

FREE South Lake Co. Fire

Protection Annual Open House. Fire engine rides, fire safey education, REACH helicopter demonstration & tour, kids’ activities, free raffles, face-painting, bounce house, & more: $1 each. BBQ burger or hotdogs: $2. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. South Lake County Fire Station 60. 21095 Hwy. 175, Middletown. tinyurl.com/2p8jwf5z

Lobster Boil Classic. $125 pp, including food & bottle of wine. Reservations required. Noon–2:30 p.m. Langtry Farms Winery. 21000 Butts Canyon Rd., Middletown. langtryfarms.com

Take Your Child to Work Day

Stay-at-Home Parent Edition

By Shannon Carpenter

April 24 is Take Your Child to Work Day. As a stay-at-home-dad, I have to show my children the wonderful world of unpaid labor. I’m a cook, maid, chauffeur, therapist, child psychologist, activist, nurse, and occasionally a bullfighter when a toddler doesn’t get a nap. Economists say that’s worth $126,000 a year, but I don’t even get a tax break!

My day begins at 6 a.m. because standard operating procedure for a stay-at-home parent does not include sleeping in. So, before the rooster yells, I’m already making pop tarts and sucking down coffee as if it’s jet fuel. Next, I sit for my first anxiety session of the day. For two minutes,

I contemplate life’s bigger questions. Will climate change wreck the world so that my kids have to live in a sea shanty one day? Are we close to a war that will cause the draft to be reinstated? Have I taught my kids enough to thrive in the apocalypse? Anxiety is one of the many benefits of my job. That and not having any PTO. Ever.

After I’ve totally freaked myself out, it’s time to get to the business of being an at-home parent. Primarily, that means touching really gross stuff. Kids (and life) are messy, and someone needs to clean it up. Fun fact, hydrogen peroxide can get biological stains out of a carpet. Do what you will with that information.

At lunch, I make something, the kids refuse to eat it, and then I eat it myself. Another benefit of an at-home parent is the excellent over-eating nutrition plan. I’ve gained 20 pounds.

After lunch, it’s time for another anxiety session. How’s the economy doing? It’s probably best not to look as a one-income family.

Afternoons are for adventures with the kids. Did you know that the World’s Largest Ball of Twine is a real thing? We’ve seen it! And so is the World’s Largest Pair of Underwear. (I’ll need them if I keep eating everyone’s meals.)

Ready for quitting time? No, that’s not 5 p.m. I’m still working well past dinner. For bedtime I will spend a good two hours doing baths, reading, and trying to get the kids to sleep while wondering if I have transferred my anxieties onto them.

But then I shut the door, and the house is quiet. I spend the next hour doom-scrolling, but then it hits me: I get to take the kids to work with me every day. I get to be the one that teaches them about the world. I am their rock.

For the last hour of my day, I realize all the memories we have made and realize that there is no other job I would want to do. I am where I belong. Then, one of the kids gets sick in the middle of the night, and I’m back on the clock.

Shannon Carpenter is a professional humorist and the author of The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad: Your Essential Manual for Being an Awesome Full-Time Father