Mendo Lake Family Life January 2020

mendo lake FREE!

January 2020

Private Schools Our local guide

Go for Greens Simple salad

Money Apps For kids

Get Fit 3 smart steps

Little Mouths ARE A

BIG DEAL

Dentistry kids love and parents trust.

Call for your appointment today.

HILLSIDE (707) 468-1010 333 LAWS AVE. UKIAH

LAKEVIEW (707) 263-7725

5335 LAKESHORE BLVD. LAKEPORT

LITTLE LAKE (707) 456-9600 45 HAZEL ST. WILLITS

WE ACCEPT MEDI-CAL. mchcinc.org

MCHC HEALTH CENTERS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER.

Inspired to help you meet your health goals

The new year is the perfect time to reset your health goals. We’re not just talking about dropping the extra weight that can be brought on by the holiday season, but really looking at your entire wellbeing. Schedule an appointment and get a better understanding of where your health is today. Our team of providers can help you review and create a plan for your blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol and any other health concerns that might come up. We are here for you and your family.

WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS

707-459-6115 3 Marcela Drive, Suite C, Willits AHHoward.org

January 2020

Every Issue

16 Features 10 A Good Education

6

Dear Reader

8

Bits and Pieces Flying Nanny Help with Child Care It’s Crab Season!

The Painted Stone-Oracle Guardians of the Trails When Moms and Dads Break Up

How to pick the best school for your child.

22 Calendar of Events

12 Private and Charter School Guide

28 Cooking with Kids

Details on local institutions.

16 Ace the Admissions Process

Meet the Lambs Kale Power

30 Humor Break What Happened to Cute?

Techniques for helping kids succeed.

8

18 Save, Invest, Spend Apps that teach little ones about money.

20 3 Steps to Getting Fit Meet your fitness goals.

28 4 MendoLakeFamilyLife

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

9

Ukiah Unified School District

2020-21 Kindergarten & Transitional Kindergarten Registration Opens January 7th

Register online at www.uusd.net

If you need assistance with registration, or access to a computer and printer, visit your school’s office.

Calpella Elementary 151 Moore Street 472-5630

Frank Zeek Elementary 1060 Bush Street 472-5100

Grace Hudson Elementary 251 Jefferson Lane 472-5460

Nokomis Elementary 495 Washington Avenue 472-5550

Oak Manor Elementary 400 Oak Manor Drive 472-5180

Yokayo Elementary 790 S. Dora Street 472-5690

Deadline for Grace Hudson Kindergarten registration: February 21, 2020 Deadline for registration at your elementary school of choice: March 31, 2020

Children age 5 by September 1, 2020, will enroll in Kindergarten.

Children turning 5 between September 2 and December 2, 2020, will enroll in our Transitional Kindergarten Program.

Dear Reader

H

ello 2020! How is your family welcoming the New Year? Are you making resolutions?

If so, paying better attention to your Sharon Gowan physical health is Publisher/Editor Sharon@family-life.us probably on your list.

And we’ve got just the article to support your efforts: “3 Steps to Getting Fit” (page 20), which outlines strategies for developing a workout plan you can stick to.

Besides resolutions, money may also be on your mind—holiday gift-giving leaves most of us tightening our belts in January. You may be looking at your kids, thinking: “How do I teach them to save?” Like everything else, there’s an app for that! Several, actually. Find out about them in “Save, Invest, Spend” (page 18.)

Money and fitness aside, education is also a topic at hand, especially if you are thinking about sending your child to a private middle or high school next year. Our Private and Charter School Guide (page 12) is here to assist you, with important information on local institutions. Pick out a few places to explore, and then let “A Good Education” (page 10) guide your decision-making. After you’ve picked a school, check out “Ace the Admissions Process” (page 16) for savvy advice on writing essays and answering interview questions.

We wish you a month of inspiring brand-new starts. Happy New Year!

Office Manager Patricia Ramos patty@family-life.us

Business Marketing Renee Nutcher renee@family-life.us Warren Kaufman warren@family-life.us

Features Editor Melissa Chianta melissa@family-life.us

Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us

DID YOU KNOW?

Web and Social Media Natalie Bruzon natalie@family-life.us

Contributing Writers Tanni Haas Cynthia Lair Heidi Morris Denise Yearian

HELPS YOU

Billing

will walk you through the entire process of becoming a child care provider in your home.

Publishing Office

WE WE

have subsidies available to help with child care expenses for qualifying families.

Jan Wasson-Smith P.O. Box 351 Philo, CA 95466 (707) 586-9562

WE

have ongoing training & referrals to help make your child care business the best it can be!

1-800-606-5550 x211 ncoinc.org 6 MendoLakeFamilyLife

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

It’s never too early to prepare your child for kindergarten A re you wondering how to help your child get ready for kindergarten? Will she play well with others? Will he listen and follow directions? Will she be able to use the bathroom by herself? If you are asking yourself one or more of these questions, NCO Head Start Child Development Program is the place for you.

Our teachers partner with families to help prepare all children to enter kindergarten. Our program’s approach focuses on providing developmentally appropriate experiences that help infants, toddlers, and preschoolers prepare to enter kindergarten. By working with the families and completing observation-based assessments, our teachers are able to create individualized approaches that meet children where they are at. Our teachers provide a nurturing and supportive environment for social, emotional, developmental, and academic growth.

They assess the growth of the children at three different times during the year, sharing the children’s growth with families.

Our program goes beyond education; it provides comprehensive services that ensure children will be ready to learn when they come to school. We provide health, dental, and mental health support services; services to children with disabilities; and support services to parents and guardians.

And since children do not need to be potty trained to attend our program, we support the children and their families with potty training. Healthy meals are prepared by our cooks on-site and served family-style with teachers. Our program follows the Food for Thought curriculum, which introduces children to new foods through educational activities and meals.

education on popular parenting topics. We also help families learn skills, such as child advocacy and how to serve on a parent council, that will help them once their children enter the public-school system.

Our preschool classrooms, which serve children 3-5 years old, are located throughout Lake and Mendocino Counties.

Our infant and toddler classrooms are in Willits and Ukiah. We also offer a homevisiting program to pregnant women, infants, and toddlers in inland Mendocino County. As part of this program, families visit with our home-based educators once a week and then come together twice a month for a family social and play group.

At each site, we have staff who are trained in the Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) and available to provide

Start your child’s journey to school success and call our enrollment team at (707) 462-2582 or visit us online at www.ncoinc.org today!

Give Your Child a Head Start!

Apply today & begin your child's journey to school success!

Free & Low-Costfor Quality Preschool!

Receive a $16,000 education your child at little or no cost.

AlsoAlso providing FREE unique in-homehome services for for providing visits infants, toddlers & pregnant women!women! infants, toddlers & pregnant

Empowering children and families to reach their highest potential!

License #230111843

Applications online: www.ncoinc.org • (707) 462-2582 Applications online: www.ncoinc.org • (707) 462-2582 or 1-(800) 326-3122 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

January 2020

• Ukiah

C E NN TT EE RR SS

✓ 1/2-day & full-day classrooms for ✔ Nurturing classroom experiences for ages 18 months to 5 years children 3 months to 5 years old. ✓✔ Potty-trained not necessary Potty-training assistance provided. ✓✔ Children with disabilities welcome Children with disabilities welcome. ✓✔ Referrals for transportation available Accepting applications year round.

•North Ukiah Ukiah - Bush St.

North Ukiah - Bush St.

Nokomis - Washington Ave. Nokomis - Washington Ave. South Ukiah - S. State St. South Ukiah - S. State St. Peach Ave. PeachTree Tree--S.S.Orchard Orchard Ave.

• Willits

•Near Willits Brookside School at

Near Brookside School at

Spruce St. & Lincoln Way Spruce St. & Lincoln Way

• Lake County

•Upper Lake County Lake - 2nd Street Upper Lake - 2nd Street

Upper Lake - Clover Valley Lakeport - Lakeport Blvd.

Lakeport Ave. Clearlake- -Howard Pearl Ave. Clearlake - Pearl Ave. Clearlake - Meadowbrook Dr. Clearlake - Meadowbrook Dr.

••Coast Coast

Fort St. FortBragg Bragg-- Lincoln Lincoln St. MendoLakeFamilyLife 7

Bits & Pieces

Flying Nanny

W

hen Walt Disney first offered Julie Andrews the role of Mary Poppins, she was three months pregnant. He waited for her to give birth so that she could play the role. And then, while mothering her new babe, she went on to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for the part. See Andrews, along with Dick Van Dyke and the rest of the Mary Poppins cast, when Soper-Reese Theatre in Lakeport hosts pajama-party screenings of the iconic 1964 film on January 3 at 1 and 6 p.m. Both kids and adults are invited to wear their PJs, cozy up with popcorn and hot chocolate, and watch the “practically perfect” nanny and her umbrella float down from the sky. The show is free; donations will be accepted. ¶

It’s Crab Season!

W

Help with Child Care

I

t’s no secret that child care is expensive.

In California’s rural counties, families frequently pay an average of $600–$1,000 per month. In Lake County, for example, a family is likely to spend one-third or more of its gross income on child care. North Coast Opportunities (NCO) seeks to alleviate this financial burden with state-funded subsidized child care. Families can apply for help from NCO Rural Communities Child Care at any time.

In order to qualify, a family of three cannot earn more than $4,278 gross monthly income.

Call local NCO Rural Communities Child Care office for assistance: Fort Bragg, 964-3080; Ukiah and Willits, 467-3200; Lakeport, 263-4688; Clearlake, 994-4018. ¶

hen January rolls around, Mendocino County proclaims its adoration for a certain crustacean with Crab Fest. The festival’s county-wide events, which are held January 24–February 2 and are mostly for those 21 and older, include wine tastings, brunches, kayak tours, and two Mendocino Coast Clinics (MCC) benefits in Fort Bragg: the Cioppino Dinner on January 31 and the Crab Cake Cook-Off and Wine Tasting Competition on February 1 (crabwinebeermendo.org). In the kid-friendly department are the Crab and Crémant Skunk Train rides, which depart from Fort Bragg on January 25 and February 1. Locals get a discount. Purchase tickets at skunktrain.com.

For details about the festival, go to tinyurl.com/ wqtd594 or visitmendocino.com. ¶

Crab Fest

8 MendoLakeFamilyLife

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

The Painted Stone-Oracle

A

couple of years ago, while traveling back from Shasta with her boyfriend of four years, our features editor made a pit stop in Redding, where she found a curious object sitting on top of a toilet paper dispenser: a small, oval rock on which was painted a Saturn-like planet bearing the message, “If you like her, put a ring on her finger.” It was a sign. Bounding out of the restroom, she went back to the car and thrust the rock in front of her beloved’s eyes. “See! The Universe wants us to get married!” With a look resembling a deer in headlights, the man in question said…nothing, followed by “That’s what you think!” Ah, she anticipated such a response from her matrimony-adverse partner. But she kept the stone-oracle anyway. Following the instructions on the back of it (“keep me or hide me”), she took it home and nestled it in unexpected places—her boyfriend’s sock drawer, under his pillow, behind the ketchup in the refrigerator—so he wouldn’t forget its invitation. We’ll let readers know if he ever takes up the Universe on its suggestion. But in the meantime, folks who would like to create their own message-on-a-rock may check out the Afternoon Crafting: Painted Rocks workshop at the Mendocino County Museum in Willits. The free class will be held on January 4, 1–3 p.m., and will provide all necessary materials (even to commitment-phobes). See facebook.com/events/726677854481624 for more information. ¶

Guardians of the Trails

T

here are no little angels or elves that create and keep up Mendocino County hiking trails. That’s why the Ukiah Valley Trail Group is holding the Hangover Handicap 5K Run: to raise money for its trail maintenance work. The race will be held on January 1 at the Great Redwood Trail in Ukiah. Walkers will start at 10:15 a.m. and runners will follow, in groups separated by age and gender. Registration is $15 in advance and $20 on the day of the event ($5 for youth). Buy tickets on eventbrite.com. Also go to mendotrails.org for more information. ¶

When Moms and Dads Break Up

O

n the Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale, divorce is right up there with marriage and death of a family member as one of life’s most difficult experiences. And parenting during a break up can be extra challenging.

The Parenting Apart: Family Transitions program aims to help divorcing parents cope with their stress and take control of their thoughts and reactions. This free five-week class, facilitated by accredited trainer Jade Aldrich, will run January 7–February 4 at Safe Passage in Fort Bragg.

Snacks and child care will be provided. To register, call 462-1233 or go to eventbrite.com and search on “Parenting Apart: Family Transitions.” ¶

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Ukiah Valley Trail Group

January 2020

MendoLakeFamilyLife 9

constant direction might be more suited to a structured environment.

3. Make a list. Write down what you are looking for in a school. Be specific about ambiance, class size, teaching style, curriculum, the role of art and music, homework, and where parents fit in the running of the

A Good Education

Find the Right School

By Denise Yearian

T

here are a host of reasons why parents send their children to private schools. For some it is a smaller teacher-student ratio and more individualized attention. For others, it is the religious grounding their children receive. For still others, it is to better address their students’ needs—be they late bloomers or gifted in math or art. But since no two schools are alike, where do parents begin their search for the right academic setting? Consider these tips:

1. Get real with recommendations. Get input from other parents you know and trust. At the same time realize there is no perfect school or one-size-fits-all academic setting. Every school has a different flavor, and one is not necessarily better than another. It’s that one may be a better fit for your child than another.

10 MendoLakeFamilyLife

2. Consider your child’s individuality. Take into account your children’s strengths, weaknesses, interests, and talents. Also mull over what sort of learning environment they would be most comfortable in. A self-motivated learner, for example, may do well in a program where she gets to direct and carry out her own learning. But a child in need of

If possible, sit in on classes and observe the teachers and students. school. Then prioritize your list. Some things may be non-negotiable while other things would be nice but not necessarily mandatory.

4. Research options. Check out schools’ websites or call and ask for more information. See our Private School Guide (page 12). Consider each school’s program, mission, services, faculty, and administration. What makes the school unique? What is its teaching philosophy? Is there a vision for the future? Is there anything the school does particularly well? What about the curriculum? Will it cater to your child’s talents and interests?

5. Don’t let cost limit you. Look at a school, even if you don’t think you can afford it. Most academic institutions offer scholarships or have financial aid based on need, so ask about it.

6. Go the distance, if needed.

A ride as far as 30 minutes may be worth it if the school has an environment where your child will be happy and thrive. Look for someone to carpool with. Or use that distance to let your child study or spend quality time with you.

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

7. Schedule a visit. This will give you a feel for the school’s academic and developmental philosophy. Note that a school that seemed to be the perfect fit on the Internet or phone

Every school has a different flavor, and one is not necessarily better than another. may prove otherwise once you have visited. And the school you weren’t initially drawn to may be the “one.”

8. Meet with authorities. Spend a few minutes talking with the principal or school administrators.

Discuss your child’s needs and ask if the school can meet them.

9. Make observations. If possible, sit in on classes and observe the teachers and students. Write down obvious facts, such as school and class size, ambiance as a whole and within individual classrooms, absence or presence of a dress code, and general demeanor of the students and teachers.

Also record the students’ reactions.

Did they feel comfortable and relaxed, or anxious and uptight?

10. Ask for references. If you haven’t already done so, get names of several parents whose children attend the school that would be willing to talk with you. Find out what they do and don’t like about the school. If you can, obtain a few names of parents who were not happy with the school.

Finding out about a child who did not

thrive there can give you a balanced perspective.

11. Get your child’s take. Return to the schools that meet your criteria and bring your children with you.

Have them meet the teacher, and if possible, spend time in the classroom with the other students. What was their reaction? Did they seem comfortable with the school? The teacher? Other students?

12. Follow your intuition. You know your child better than anyone else. If you have done your homework, you’ll know if it’s the right school for your child. ¶ Denise Yearian is a former educator and editor of two parenting magazines, and the mother of three children and six grandchildren.

PARENT INFORMATION & DEMONSTRATION NIGHT JANUARY 22, 6PM, 2020 Applications Due Feb. 21 Enroll online at www.uusd.net Or in person at Eagle Peak

engineering maker space robotics • electronics computer coding digital media music technology

BE AN ENGINEER Eagle Peak Middle School STEM Magnet School Open enrollment for fourth, fifth and sixth grade students who are interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The focus will be on engaging students with hands-on activities that prepare them for high school, college, and employment in high-demand and high-paying careers.

707-472-5250 • www.eaglepeak.uusd.net

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

January 2020

MendoLakeFamilyLife 11

2020 Mendo Lake Private & Charter School Guide

FREE!

January 2020

spiritually & socially. Grades: 1–8. Avg. class size: 12. Enrollment Current/ Max: 12/30. Offers: multi-child/family discount. 15150 Davis St., Clearlake.

994-6356. clearlakesdaschool.com.

Konocti Health Magnet School. Public.

Private Schools

Money

Our local guide

Go for

For kids

3 smart steps

Simple salad

LAKE COUNTY Clearlake Clearlake Seventh Day Adventist Christian School. Call for tuition.

Nurturing each child’s growth as a whole person: academically, physically,

Preparation for college & career in the health-care industry. Grades: 9–12. Avg. class size: 22. Enrollment Current/ Max: 148/NA. Offers: cafeteria/ lunch program, transportation/ busing. 15851-A Dam Rd. Ext., Clearlake. 994-6447. konoctiusd.org/ konocti-health-magnet-school.

Konocti Visual & Performing Arts Magnet School. Public. A feeder program to Lower Lake High School. Grades: 4–8. Avg. class size: 22. Enrollment Current/Max: 284/ NA. Offers: cafeteria/lunch program,

 

 Focused on the future of each child  FREE public charter school  College & career planning  After school programs  Free college courses  Small class sizes  Math tutor  Individualized support for struggling students  Highly qualified credentialed teachers  Emergency response courses  Life skills development

Enroll today for 2020-2021!

(707) 463-7080  12 MendoLakeFamilyLife

transportation/busing, summer programs. 15851-A Dam Rd. Ext., Clearlake. 994-6447. kec.konoctiusd.org.

Zemorah Christian Academy.

Call for tuition. Independent Study Program available. Student teacher ratio: 2:1. Grades: K–12.

Avg. class size: varies. Enrollment Current/Max: 12/NA. Offers: multi-child/family discount. 14100 Lakeshore Dr., Clearlake. 533-5871. zemorahchristianacademy.org.

Lakeport Konocti Christian Academy. $4,600.

Providing academic excellence in a Christian environment. Grades: K–8.

Avg. class size: 12–22. Enrollment Current/Max: 93/100. Offers: extended care, multi-child/family discount.

GIVE YOUR CHILD a joy-

ful learning experience full of discovery with:

  





• Exploration of own interests & abilities • Experiential learning with field trips, arts • Respectful and caring learning community • Peace education and mindfulness • Earth stewardship



Tree of Life Charter



  

Free Montessori Elementary Education for Children Ages 5 through 13 OPEN ENROLLMENT January For application and more information: 707-462-0913 treeoflifeschool@pacific.net www.treeoflifeschool.net

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

2020 Mendo Lake Private & Charter School Guide 401 Martin St., Lakeport. 262-1522. konoctichristianacademy.com.

Middletown Lake Country International Charter School. Public. A free public school where children love to learn. Grades: K–8. Avg. class size: 20. Enrollment Current/Max: 78/90. Offers: extended care, cafeteria/lunch program.

Summer program. Transportation Lake Co. Transit. 15850 Armstrong St., Middletown. 987-3063. lcics.org.

Middletown Christian School.

$4,100–$5,000. Shaping hearts & minds in a Christ-centered environment. Grades: TK–12. Avg. class size: 10. Enrollment Current/ Max: 42/100. Offers: multi-child/ family discount. Requires uniforms.

20800 Hwy. 29, Middletown. 987-2556. middletownchristianschool.org.

MENDOCINO COUNTY Calpella

required. 6280 3rd St., Calpella.

485-8719. mendocinowaldorf.org.

Covelo Eel River Charter School. Public.

Holistic teaching to develop educated, responsible, compassionate people.

Grades: K–6. Avg. class size: 20.

Enrollment Current/Max: 60/70.

Offers: cafeteria/lunch program, transportation. 76350 Main St., Covelo.

983-6946. eelriverschool.net.

The Waldorf School of Mendocino

Fort Bragg

Middletown Adventist School.

County. $3,515–$10,680. Independent

Three Rivers Charter School.

$3,950. Welcomes children of any faith. Grades: 1–8. Avg. class size: 12. Enrollment Current/Max: 9/25. Multi-child/family discount, semi-uniform. 21640 Hwy. 29, Middletown. 987-9147. maschool.org.

Waldorf Education. Academically rigorous, engaging curriculum that cultivates student capacities. Grades: PK–8. Avg. class size: 12. Enrollment Current/Max: 100/160. Offers: extended care, multi-child/family discount, lunch program. Uniforms

Public. REACH–Respect, empathy, achievement, good citizenship, hard work. Grades: 1–8. Avg. class size: 24. Enrollment Current/Max: 97/105.

Offers: extended care, cafeteria. 1211 Del Mar Dr., Fort Bragg. 964-1128. trcschool.org.

A Small School for Big Thoughts

www.caredwoods.org • 1059 N. State St., Ukiah

Enroll Today (707) 467-0500

Individual attention allows an unhurried approach Serene setting bordering state forest and state park Project-based learning in small, multi-age groups

e pa

r in g s t u d e n t s f o r

c

o ll Recognize e d b y Newsweek & as one of US News Americ Best Scho a’s ols

Redwood Academy of Ukiah

Self-directed math (Jon Green's Custom Curricula™)

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Pr

ge

Unique Waldorf-inspired K-5 Program

➢ FREE Public School ➢ Advanced Placement Options ➢ Caring, Credentialed Teachers ➢ Centrally Located at the Fairgrounds ➢ Clubs & Electives, Student Council ➢ Serving Grades 7-12

January 2020

MendoLakeFamilyLife 13

2020 Mendo Lake Private & Charter School Guide Mendocino Caspar Creek Learning Community.

Public. A program of Pivot Charter School North Bay. Cultivating the joy of discovery in a natural setting.

Grades: K–5. Avg. class size: 16.

Enrollment Current/Max: 40/48.

P.O. Box 547, Mendocino. 964-6234. casparcreek.org.

Redwood Valley Deep Valley Christian School.

$1,700–$3,950. Morning or full-day state-licensed preschool. Grades K–5 & Homeschool Oversight for K–12. Avg. class size: Less than 10.

Enrollment Current/Max: 77/NA. 8555 Uva Dr., Redwood Valley. 485-8778. deepvalleychristianschool.org.

Eagle Peak Middle School. Public.

Inspiring achievement through

STEM education. Grades: 5–8. Avg. class size: 20. Enrollment Current/ Max: 520/520. Offers: cafeteria/ lunch program, transportation. 8601 West Rd., Redwood Valley. 472-5250. eaglepeak.uusd.net.

Ukiah Accelerated Achievement Ukiah.

Public. Accelerating achievement toward a successful future. Grades: 4–12. Avg. class size: 18. Enrollment Current/Max: 145/175. Offers: extended care, cafeteria/lunch program, summer programs. 1031 N. State St., Ukiah. 463-7080. caredwoods.org.

Grades: K–12. Avg. class size: 10.

Enrollment Current/Max: 205/250.

Offers: day & boarding students.

Extended care (grades K–3), cafeteria/lunch program, financial aid. Requires uniforms. 2001 Talmage Rd., Ukiah. Boys School: 468-1138. Girls School: 468-3847. igdvs.org.

Redwood Academy of Ukiah. Public.

& Developing Virtue Secondary

Preparing students for college & independent living. Grades: 7–12.

Avg. class size: 24. Enrollment Current/Max: 145/150. Offers: extended care, cafeteria/lunch program, summer programs. 1059 N. State St., Ukiah. 467-0500. caredwoods.org.

Schools. $4,250.

River Oak Charter School. Public.

Instilling Goodness Elementary

Provides a full academic & character program.

Guided by the core principles of public

Student Centered Personal Nature Based Real World Learning

An Accredited Alternative For Grades K-12 La Vida 707-459-6344 Charter 16201 Hwy 101, Willits School lavidaschool.org 14 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Alliance for Public Waldorf Education Member

Kindergarten through Eighth Grade

Open Enrollment: Jan 6–Feb 27 Tours: Jan 14, Jan 28, Feb 11, Feb 25 Open House: Jan 25, 10am-Noon Advanced math, Science, Spanish, Music, Art, Woodwork, Drama, Speech, Extraordinary field trips www.riveroakcharterschool.org 707-467-1855 • 555 Leslie St., Ukiah, CA 95482 January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

2020 Mendo Lake Private & Charter School Guide Waldorf education. Grades: TK–8. Avg. class size: 26. Enrollment Current/ Max: 246/246. Offers: extended care. 555 Leslie St., Ukiah. 467-1855. riveroakcharterschool.org.

St. Mary of the Angels Catholic

$6,064. Enlightening the mind while enriching the soul.

Grades: K–8. Avg. class size: 20.

Enrollment Current/Max: 160/205.

Offers: extended care, multi-child/ family discount, cafeteria/lunch program. Requires uniforms. 991 S. Dora St., Ukiah. 462-3888. stmarysukiah.org.

School.

Max: 80/96. Offers: extended care, cafeteria/lunch program.

241 Ford Rd., Ukiah. 462-0913. treeoflifeschool.net.

Ukiah Junior Academy. $6,200.

Christ-centered academic excellence.

Accredited by Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC).

Grades: K–10. Avg. class size: 16.

Enrollment Current/Max: 100/135.

Offers: extended care, cafeteria/ lunch program. Requires uniforms.

180 Stipp Ln., Ukiah. 462-6350. myuja.org.

Willits

Tree of Life Charter School. Public.

Free Montessori elementary education. Grades: TK–6. Avg. class size: 20. Enrollment Current/

Max: 88/99. 16201 N. Hwy. 101, Willits.

459-6344. lavidaschool.org.

La Vida Charter School. Public.

Nature-based, child-centered, Rudolf Steiner–inspired. Grades: K–12. Avg. class size: 10. Enrollment Current/

Willits Charter School. Public.

Focuses on the arts & sciences.

Grades: 6–12. Avg. class size: 24.

Enrollment Current/Max: 120/168.

Offers: cafeteria/lunch program.

1431 S. Main St., Willits. 459-5506. willitscharter.org.

Willits Elementary Charter School.

Public. Inquiry-based learning.

Spanish, art, music. Grades: K–5. Avg. class size: 23. Enrollment Current/ Max: 142/142. Offers: extended care, cafeteria/lunch program. 405 E. Commercial St., Willits. 459-1400. willitselementarycharter.com.

Quality Christian Education Inspired Teaching- Enthusiastic Learning Preschool through 8th grade

Christ-centered education in Ukiah • Small class sizes • College-prep curriculum • Music program • Family-like atmosphere • Fully accredited grades K–10

Enrolling Now! Independent Waldorf Education Rigorous Academic Program, Foreign Language, Music, Art, Drama, Woodworking, Outdoor Learning Compassion and Community

UKIAH JUNIOR ACADEMY

For more information visit www.mendocinowaldorf.org

180 Stipp Lane, Ukiah • www.myuja.org • 707.462.6350

6280 Third Street w Calpella, CA 95418 w707-485-8719

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

January 2020

MendoLakeFamilyLife 15

a page or two why they’re interested in attending a specific school, and to describe their academic interests as well as how those interests align with the school’s curriculum.

Go online to the school’s website and read about its curriculum, educational philosophy, and approach to learning.

This will enable you to help your kids make their letters of intent as relevant as possible. Does the school pride itself on collaborative, team-based

Ace the Admissions Help Your Kids with Process Winning Strategies

By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

O

nce upon a time, the only tough academic hurdle was getting into a good college. That’s not the case anymore. Now, many middle and high schools also have challenging admissions procedures. So how do you prepare your kids for them? Here I consider the three most common elements: (1) the letter of intent, (2) the on-site interview, and (3) the on-site essay prompt.

The Letter of Intent It might sound odd, but applying to middle or high school isn’t that different than applying for a job. Your kids are asking to become members of an organization with certain values and ways of doing things.

16 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Schools typically refer to this as their “educational philosophy” (values) and “approach to learning” (ways of doing things). It’s important to keep this in mind when you help your kids write their letters of intent. In the letter, your kids are expected to outline in

The school’s guidance counselor can often supply examples of commonly asked questions in advance of the interview. learning, or does it prefer students who work independently? Is the curriculum infused with lots of digital technology, or does it rely on more traditional, pen-and-paper learning?

I had to deal with these questions when my 15-year-old-son applied for middle school. My son, who has a passion for precious stones, decided to write his letter of intent on that topic and connect it to the school’s strong focus on earth science. We knew, from reading the school’s website, that it had a very contemporary educational philosophy and approach to learning.

Knowing that, we made sure that his letter of intent emphasized his interest in collaborative, team-based learning and his ease with different digital technologies. He got admitted to that school, and we believe that this targeted approach and preparation were big factors.

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

The On-Site Interview Another common part of the admissions process is the on-site interview, which an admissions officer typically conducts with individuals or in a group context. It’s very important that your kids appear confident and knowledgeable. Like at job interviews, applicants who look like they’d rather disappear under the chair and who know little about the organization don’t impress interviewers. The school’s guidance counselor can often supply examples of commonly asked questions in advance of the interview.

If your kids are invited to a group interview, tell them that it is important that they strike a balance between being too domineering and too shy. On the one hand, you

It might sound odd, but applying to middle or high school isn’t that different than applying for a job. want your kids to speak up so that the interviewer notices them. On the other hand, you don’t want your kids to talk over or interrupt other kids. It’s also important to stress that if your kids are asked the same question as other kids, they shouldn’t respond: “I agree with what that other kid said.” If no original answer comes to mind, it’s best to restate what was already said but in a different way.

My son had many individual and group interviews as part of his high school admissions process.

For two months prior to his first www.mendolakefamilylife.com

interview, we’d daily practice his interviewing skills. I’d pretend to be a high school admissions officer, and he’d knock on the door, enter the room as though it were a real

It’s very important that your kids appear confident and knowledgeable. interview, and we’d practice the most commonly asked interview questions until he felt comfortable with all of them.

The On-Site Essay Prompt Many middle and high schools also require applicants to write an essay on-site before the interview as a way to focus the conversation.

Sometimes kids are asked to write one long essay on a specific topic.

Other times, they are given two or shorter essay prompts to answer in a limited period of time. Like with the on-site interview, if you contact the school’s guidance counselor in advance you can often get a list of common essay prompts.

When responding to the essay prompts, stress the importance of writing neatly and clearly, and using correct grammar and spelling. The on-site essay isn’t the right occasion to try out new words your kids don’t know how to spell, or to use complex sentence constructions that they have never mastered before.

Instead, they should try to write in as straightforward and simple a way as possible. That will impress the admissions officer.

Tanni Haas, Ph.D., is a college communications professor.

January 2020

Never

Underestimate the Power of the Purse Moms typically control 80% or more of their household budgets.

They’re looking right here, to find you.

Call now. Don’t miss another month.

IN PRINT • ONLINE • EVENTS • CONTESTS

586-9562

MendoLakeFamilyLife.com MendoLakeFamilyLife 17

allowances as recurring payments; and it encourages kids to balance their accounts.

Save, Invest, 8 Money-Management Spend Apps for Children I

By Tanni Haas

f you want your kids to learn about the value of money in a way that’s both educational and fun, then encourage them to download an app—or three. Below are eight of the most popular and kid-friendly money-management apps available and the best part is that they are all free. Have your kids try different ones until they find the one they like the most.

AdVenture Capitalist Available at Apple App Store and Google Play. Ages 5–12.

This app lets kids experience what it’s like to be a virtual investor. They start off with a single lemonade stand and, depending on how successful they are at managing this business, they can acquire more complex companies, including banks and oil companies.

Through hiring managers and employees, they also learn important management lessons.

18 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Bankaroo Available at Amazon Apps, Apple App Store, and Google Play.

Ages 9–12. Created by 11-year-old Dani Gafni and her father, Etay, for their own family’s needs, this app teaches kids how to save and budget their allowances and other sources of income. Kids open up virtual bank accounts, set specific savings goals, and then track their ability to reach those goals. Simulating real bank accounts, the app registers

FamZoo Family Finance Available at Apple App Store and Google Play. Ages 5–18. This app functions as a virtual bank. Parents are the “bankers” and the kids are the “customers.” The whole family is connected, so it’s easy to move money around. Aside from teaching kids how to save money and track their spending over time, parents can transfer real money to them with prepaid and reloadable debit cards.

Kids act as space aliens who perform various “jobs” for which they are paid.

Other useful features include the ability to give your kids loans, and then teaching them how to pay back those loans in installments.

PiggyBot Available at Apple App Store. Ages 5–8.

This app functions like a virtual piggybank so kids can save for a special purchase. They can post pictures of what they want and keep track of their progress toward making their purchases. They open virtual accounts, with unique PIN numbers, to give them a sense of responsibility for and ownership of their money. As kids get closer to their goal, parents can contribute virtual money.

RoosterMoney Available at Amazon Apps, Apple App Store, and Google Play. Ages 5–12. This app teaches kids to keep track of how much money they have

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

earned from their parents and how much money is still owed to them.

Kids set savings goals and then see, through easy-to-use charts, how close they are to reaching those goals. The app includes a so-called “safe” option that allows kids to send money to a virtual safe, thereby teaching them to distinguish between short-term and long-term savings goals.

Star Banks Adventure Available at Apple App Store. Ages 5–12. This app teaches kids more complex money-management principles, including asset allocation, diversification, and the dangers of risky investments. Kids act as space aliens who perform various “jobs” for which they are paid. Other useful

Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport Fly local & enjoy nonstop flights!  Seattle (SEA)  Portland (PDX)  Los Angeles (LAX)  Orange County (SNA)  San Diego (SAN)  Phoenix (PHX)  Dallas (DFW)  San Francisco (SFO)  Denver (DEN)  Minneapolis (MSP)  Las Vegas (LAS)

features include frequent, short quizzes that cover financial literary concepts and allow kids to earn extra

Parents are the “bankers” and the kids are the “customers.” money. Kids will learn how to save, spend wisely, invest, and set financial goals.

Toshl Finance Available at Apple App Store and Google Play.

Ages 13 and up. Linked to one or more real bank accounts, this app includes charts and data visualizations that display past spending patterns and information

TS

www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Yuby Available at Apple App Store. Ages 5–12. This app includes a “wish list” that helps kids compare the cost of items they would like to purchase and track how much progress they have made towards making those purchases. Kids learn not only to save money, but also to budget for and prioritize different goals. They are also encouraged to set aside money for charity. ¶ Tanni Haas, Ph.D., is a college communications professor.

Missing 18 days of school a year (that’s just 2-3 absences a month–excused or not), teaches your kids bad habits and dramatically reduces their chances of graduating from high school.

©P N

www.flySTS.com

about current finances, helping users to identify potential areas for savings and create more realistic budgets. Other useful features include a receipt database and reminders of when bills are due.

uusd.net

KEEP YOUR KIDS IN SCHOOL.

January 2020

attendanceworks.org MendoLakeFamilyLife 19

Why do you want to be confident?

I want to be a role model for my daughters.

It may not be easy to keep peeling back the layers on your Why. But once you’re crystal clear about the source of your desire, it becomes a million times

Treat your workout time as you would any other appointment.

the 3 Steps to LayFoundation Getting Fit for Success

By Pam Moore

I

f you’re like most people, January finds you ready to start a new fitness routine. And if you’re like most people, by February, your motivation vanishes along with the cookies you swore you wouldn’t eat. Studies show only four percent of people who join a gym in January step foot in that gym in February. If you are one of the many who wanted this year to be different, here are three things you can do to lay a foundation for success.

1. Find your Why. You’d be surprised how easy it is to commit to your fitness journey when you know why you embarked on the mission in the first place. Ask yourself why you want to get in shape. Then ask again. And again. You’ll know when you’re done. Once you get over the awkwardness of having a conversation with yourself, you might be surprised how powerful 20 MendoLakeFamilyLife

easier to say no to the snooze button and say yes to your workout—and yourself—instead.

2. Have a measurable goal. I love fitness. As an Ironman triathlete, an avid runner, a running coach, and a spin instructor, it’s fair to say I am obsessed with fitness. But I can’t support a goal of simply “getting fit.”

The same goes for “getting in shape” or “toning up.”

Fitness goals must be objective and measurable. In other words, you should be able to attach numbers and dates to them.

Why do you want to get fit?

If you have a weight loss goal, make sure it includes a number of pounds and a date. “Lose weight” becomes a long-term goal of “Lose 20 pounds by April 1.” Once you have a long-term goal, add a few short-term goals to keep you motivated and to provide benchmarks of your progress.

Because I want my jeans to fit better.

Short-term goals might be:

your Why is. The conversation might go something like this:

Why do you want your jeans to fit better?

• Lose two pounds by January 10.

So I can feel good about myself.

• Lose ten pounds by June first.

Why do you want to feel good about yourself?

Because I want to be confident.

3. Schedule your workouts. As all successful people know, what gets on the calendar gets accomplished.

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Treat your workout time as you would any other appointment. Create an event on your Outlook or Google calendar, pencil it into your planner, or create an alert on your phone 20 minutes in advance. Do whatever works for you to carve out the time.

If you have a weight loss goal, make sure it includes a number of pounds and a date.

If you’re having trouble keeping your workout appointments, try a different approach. In her book, Better Than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives (Crown, 2015), Gretchen Rubin classifies most people

as what she calls “obligers.” Obligers find it much easier to follow through on a commitment they’ve made to a friend than one they’ve made to themselves. While most of us would easily hit snooze and skip the 7 a.m. spin class, we’d never stand up the friend we promised to meet at the gym.

There’s no shame in relying on external accountability to help establish a new habit. You could start by: • Finding a friend, neighbor, or co-worker to work out with.

• Attending classes at a group fitness studio with a strict cancellation policy. It’s hard to skip a workout you’ve already paid for.

• Joining an exercise group.

• Becoming a member of an online accountability group.

• Hiring a personal trainer.

Before you give up on fitness—or better yet, before you buy that fancy workout tracker and the pricey yoga pants—ask yourself the hard questions. Being honest with yourself about your fitness goals will keep you on your fitness path over the long haul. Because once you know your Why, your What, and your When, the question of How becomes a whole lot easier to answer. ¶ This article was originally published on NuGlow.

To get Pam Moore’s free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome, visit pam-moore.com.

Have More Fun & Create Great Memories Get weekly FREE e-mail updates for the best LOCAL family fun calendar

visit

MendoLakeFamily Life.com www.mendolakefamilylife.com

January 2020

MendoLakeFamilyLife 21

January Calendar of Events Meet the Lambs

I

n January’s chilly post-holiday weeks, when perhaps many of us gravitate to curling up (um, collapsing?) by a fire, ewes are doing the hard work of giving birth to their little bundles of white fluff. The Hopland Research and Extension Center in Hopland expects its lambs to arrive in mid-January. Kids and their parents are invited to visit them on January 11, 10 a.m.–noon. There will be a one-mile stroller- and toddler-friendly walk to see the lambs, followed by sheep-related activities in the center’s Rod Shippey Hall. Participants may bring a packed lunch but are asked to leave their dogs at home. Admission is $8 for adults or $3 for ages 16 and younger.

Register for the Meet the Lambs event at tinyurl.com/v3a6ez4. ¶

Wednesday 1

Friday 3

Meet the Lambs

Saturday 4

Pudding Creek Express. Travel along

FREE Mary Poppins Pajama Party.

Incredulous. Free, live, on-air,

the Pudding Creek Estuary to Glen Blair Junction on this scenic 7-mile round-trip. $41.95. Ages 2–12: $25.95.

Ages 2 & younger: $10.95. Dogs: $10.95.

Fort Bragg Depot. 100 W. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. Jan. 1–3 followed

by Saturdays & Sundays (plus Mon. Jan. 20). Rides at 11 a.m. & 1 p.m., depending on the day. skunktrain.com.

Kids & grown-ups welcome to wear PJs to view 1964 film. 1 & 6 p.m.

Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. soperreesetheatre.com.

all-ages performance of a local thrash metal band. 10 p.m. Tune in to 105.1 FM or kmecradio.org.

Hangover Handicap 5K Run. $5–$20.

Benefits Ukiah Valley Trail Group.

10:15 a.m. Great Redwood Trail (aka Ukiah Rail Trail). 195 Clara Ave., Ukiah. eventbrite.com.

Ukiah on Ice: Holiday Ice Skating Rink. $10 skate session, includes

skates. Jan. 1: noon–4 p.m. Jan. 2–5: noon–8 p.m. Next to Alex Thomas Plaza on School Street. See schedule at facebook.com/UkiahOnIce/.

FREE Admission Day at CV Starr Center. Free all day. 5 a.m.–8 p.m.

CV Starr Community Center. 300 S. Lincoln, Fort Bragg. mendocoastrec.org.

FREE First Day Hike. Docents lead 2 different routes. Noon–2:30 p.m.

Anderson Marsh State Historic Park.

Hwy. 53, between Lower Lake & Clearlake. facebook.com/amia.org.

22 MendoLakeFamilyLife

FREE Family Fun at Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center (ARRC). Open

gym for basketball, tumbling & soccer. Sundays recreation center also open for Ping-Pong, board games, etc. Kids younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Jan. 3: 8–11 p.m. Jan. 4: 9–11 p.m.

Jan. 5: noon–4 p.m. ARRC. 1640 S. State St., Ukiah. visitukiah.com.

FREE Clearlake Lego Club. Design,

build & invent with Legos. All ages.

Fridays. 3:30–4:30 p.m. Redbud Library. 14785 Burns Valley Rd., Clearlake. See facebook.com/ lakecountylibrary for a schedule of similar classes at other libraries.

FREE Grace Hudson Museum First Friday. Free admission. 10 a.m.–4:30

p.m. Grace Hudson Museum.

431 S. Main St., Ukiah. 467-2836. gracehudsonmuseum.org.

FREE Afternoon Crafting: Painted Rocks. 1–3 p.m. Mendocino County

Museum. 400 E. Commercial St., Willits. facebook.com/ events/726677854481624.

FREE Guided Whale Walk. Leashed pets allowed. Binoculars provided.

Donations appreciated. Saturdays. 11 a.m.–noon. Meet at MacKerricher State Park Visitors Center. 24100 MacKerricher Park Rd., Fort Bragg. kozt.com.

FREE Home Depot Kids Workshop.

Kids will create their own mini-hockey game. Kids must be accompanied by a parent or adult. 9 a.m.–noon.

Home Depot. 350 N. Orchard Ave., Ukiah. Register at homedepot.com/ workshops.

KBA Jazz in the Barn Dinner. Chef Jeremy Aiken will serve a meal while the Tom Aiken Quartet plays jazz. $75. 5:30–9:30 p.m. 4595 Gaddy Ln., Kelseyville. tinyurl.com/rmpm5gy.

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

All Together Play. Structured

Tuesday 7 FREE Middletown Storytime.

Picture-book stories, snacks & activities. Tuesdays. 11:30 a.m. Middletown Library. 21256 Washington St., Middletown. See facebook.com/lakecountylibrary for a schedule of similar classes at other libraries.

FREE Parenting Apart: Family Transitions Program. 5-week class to

help divorcing parents cope with stress.

Thru Feb. 4. Safe Passage. 208 Dana St., Fort Bragg. Registration required: 462-1233. eventbrite.com.

FREE Mother-Wise. Classes &

playgroup for kids ages 0–5 & their caregivers. 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays. Thru.

Jan. 28. ARC Family Resource Center.

1640 State St., Ukiah. facebook.com/ arcukiah.

Wednesday 8 FREE Weird Science for Kids.

Experience magnet mazes. Ages 5–10. 4–6 p.m. Fort Bragg Library.

499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. fortbragglibrary.org.

FREE Lend an Ear Workshop: How to Listen & Support Yourself & Others. Taught by Jo-Ann Rosen,

LMFT. Geared toward teens & adults.

Wednesdays. 5–6 p.m. Runs thru Feb. 12. Attend one or all; they are not cumulative. Ukiah Library. 105 N.

support for moms. Tuesdays. 1–3 p.m. Mother-Wise. 180 N. Main St., Lakeport. facebook.com/ motherwiselakecounty.

Main St., Ukiah. Register: 463-4490. mendolibrary.org.

FREE Oculus Rift Virtual Reality.

Time travel, space travel, or go inside a favorite movie. Sessions last 10 minutes. For ages 12 & older.

Wednesdays. 4–5 p.m. Redbud Library.

14785 Burns Valley Rd., Clearlake. See facebook.com/lakecountylibrary for a schedule of similar classes at other libraries.

FREE Moms Matter Radio. Tune in to the Mother-Wise weekly radio call-in program on KPFZ 88.1 FM. Wednesdays. 9–10 a.m. Call 263-3435 during showtime to participate. mother-wise.org.

Thursday 9 Time for Me Parents’ Group. Parents

participate in a different craft each

MAKE THE MOST OF PLAYTIME LAUNCH RIGHT IN WITH . . .

a SUPER SPACECRAFT!

GATHER THESE MATERIALS:

Pencil

2 toilet paper tubes

Paper towel tube

2. Draw a rounded 1. Lay a toilet

paper tube on top of a piece of cardboard.

Trace it.

nose to the traced shape. Then draw two rounded triangles for wings.

Small piece of cardboard

Markers or paint

3. Cut out the shape.

Scissors

(with an adult�s help)

Paper

5. Glue your cut tube on top of the cardboard in the shape of a spacecraft, and let it dry.

4. Trace the bottom of a toilet paper tube on top of another. Then cut out the round shape.

6. Color or paint your spacecraft. You

can also decorate it with stickers. Place a small toy inside and go for a ride. Tell a story about where you’re going!

TinkerActive Workbooks cover essential skills using curriculum-based exercises and interactive tinkering, making, and engineering activities using common household materials!

The Active Way to learn through play www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Glue

January 2020

Odd Dot

An imprint of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group

AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD

MendoLakeFamilyLife 23

week while their children play safely next-door. ARC Family Resource Center. 1640 State St., Ukiah. facebook.com/arcukiah.

FREE Schools of Hope: North Coast Opportunities (NCO) Orientation.

Celebrating YEARS

Find out how to become a tutor & help the 65 percent of Mendocino County third graders who are reading below proficiency level. 5:30–6 p.m.

NCO. 413 N. State St., Ukiah. 462-1959.

Friday 10 The Syncopaths in Concert. Music & songs rooted in the Scottish, Irish & American folk traditions. Benefits local radio station KZYX. $20. 7:30 p.m. Gloriana Musical Theatre. 210 N. Corry St., Fort Bragg. syncopaths.com. brownpapertickets.com.

Professional Pianists Concert.

YEARS as the #1 resource for local families

Local pianists come together to play & trade tall tales, all to benefit the Ukiah Community Concert Association. $20–$30. Jan. 10 & Jan. 11: 7 p.m. Jan. 12: 2 p.m. Mendocino College Theatre.

1000 Hensley Creek Rd., Ukiah. ukiahconcerts.org.

Saturday 11 Hopland Hikes: Meet the Lambs.

1-mile stroller-friendly walk. See newly born lambs & participate in sheep-related kids’ activities. Packed lunch OK. $3–$8. No dogs permitted.

10 a.m.–noon. Hopland Research & Extension Center. 4070 University Rd., Hopland. hrec.ucanr.edu.

FREE Maker Space: Fleece No-Sew Blankets. Learn to make fleece

no-sew blankets. Ages 12–adult. 2–4:30 p.m. Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. Reservations required. Call 463-4490. mendolibrary.org.

magazine • web • email • events 24 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Sunday 12 FREE Admission to Hendy Woods State Park. Local residents only:

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Yorkville, Boonville, Philo, Navarro, Comptche & Elk. 7 a.m.–7 p.m. 18599 Philo Greenwood Rd., Philo.

Tuesday 14 FREE Art Night: New Year’s Time Capsule. Participants will send a

message to their future selves via personalized containers meant to be open in 2021. Supplies provided.

Ages 4 & up. Jan. 14: 5:30 p.m. & Jan. 17: 11 a.m. Willits Library.

390 E. Commercial St., Willits. mendolibrary.org.

Friday 17 Crab Feed & Auction. Benefits

the Mendocino Unified School Enrichment Program. Jan. 17: 6 p.m.

Jan. 18: 5 p.m. Little River Inn. 7701 N. Hwy., Little River. littleriverinn.com.

FREE Mad Genius STEAM Series.

Monthly workshops incorporate all the fundamentals of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art & math).

Ages 10–18. Snacks/drinks provided.

Every third Friday. 3:30–4:30 p.m.

Ukiah Library. 105 N. Main St., Ukiah. mendolibrary.org.

Country Jamboree Barbecue Dinner. BBQ tri-tip & chicken.

$45. Benefits Lake County Horse Council & Westside Park. Happy hour: 5–6 p.m. Dinner: 6–9 p.m.

Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin Dr., Lakeport. facebook. com/lakecountyhorsecouncil.

Saturday 18 Spaghetti Dinner. $15. Cash bar & silent auction. Benefits the Cubs Football & Cheer Teams. 5:30–8:30

p.m. Laurel Deli. Main & Laurel Streets. Fort Bragg. kozt.com.

January Jamboree: Equine & Wine. Vendors, demos, educational

talks, tack swap & performance by country singer Tom Drinnon. 2–8 p.m. Lake County Fairgrounds. 401 Martin St., Lakeport. facebook.com/ lakecountyhorsecouncil.

FREE Afternoon Crafting: Inspired

by Nature Wall Hangings. Learn

how to use a clipboard as a loom & practice basic weaving techniques. 1–3 p.m. Mendocino County Museum.

400 E. Commercial St., Willits. facebook.com/events/557231818173026.

Lakeshore Lions All-You-Can- Eat Crab Feed. Live & silent auctions. $50.

Benefits the fireworks & Clearlake Youth Center. 6–10 p.m. Clearlake Senior Community Center. 3245

All the Flexibility of Homeschooling The Benefits of Ukiah Unified!

HEY MOM GIVE US A SHOUT!

We want to know what you think.

• What did you like in this issue?

• What do you want to see more or less of?

• Know a teacher, coach, or special person that makes local family life better?

• Know of an upcoming event or fun family outing?

• Want to write stories or recipes, or blog for Family Life?

e-mail melissa@family-life.us www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Ukiah Independent Study Academy One on one individualized learning with an accredited teacher Flex Time & Days • Tailored Learning Eligible for UHS Sports • Dual College Enrollment College & Career Readiness • WASC Accredited Science Labs • Science Club • Art Classes

Now Accepting TK-12 Registration 1000 Low Gap Rd., Ukiah • 707-472-5906 January 2020

MendoLakeFamilyLife 25

Bowers Ave., Clearlake. facebook.com/ events/520870678491097.

Synergy Chamber Players. Local

artists share musical works & reflect on musical traditions. $20. Ages 18 & younger: free. 7 p.m. Soper Reese Theatre. 275 S. Main St., Lakeport. soperreesetheatre.com.

FREE Colusa & Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Field Trip.

Sponsored by the Redbud Audubon Society. Carpool from Lower Lake.

9 a.m. See redbudaudubon.org for details.

Robin Hood: The Courtship of Allan A’Dale. Musical featuring 28

youth ages 11–15 portraying legendary characters of the Robin Hood legends. $10–$15. Jan. 18 & 25: 3 & 7 p.m.

SPACE Theater. 508 W. Perkins St., Ukiah. spaceperformingarts.org.

Sunday 19 Pianist Frederick Hodges. Program featuring Gershwin overtures. $25.

Ages 18 & younger: free. 3 p.m. Preston Hall. 44831 Main St., Mendocino. symphonyoftheredwoods.org.

Monday 20 Hip Replacements. Blues/rock band

performs. 6:30–9 p.m. Blue Wing Restaurant. 9520 Main St., Upper Lake. 275-2233.

Friday 24 Gualala Lions Crab Feed.

All-you-can-eat dinner. Raffles. $50.

Jan. 24: 6–8 p.m. Jan. 25: 6–8 p.m.

Gualala Community Center. 47950 Center St., Gualala. Reservations required: rjryder@sbcglobal.net.

Saturday 25 Dining with the Stars. Catered dinner & silent & live auctions.

Benefits Alex Rorabaugh Recreation Center (ARRC) programs for kids, families & the disabled. $65.

5:30–9:30 p.m. ARRC. 1640 S. State St., Ukiah. tinyurl.com/uhuhsn5.

Crab Feed. Fundraiser for Mendocino Coast Sports Foundation & Fort Bragg Rotary Club. No-host beer & wine. $75. 1 child 10 & younger free with each adult ticket. Noon–6 p.m. Fort Bragg Fire House. 141 N. Main St., Fort Bragg. facebook.com/ fortbraggrotary.

Barrel Tasting 101. A once-a-year

opportunity to gain inside access to wineries all along the upper Russian River Valley & experience wines right from the barrel. $25–$35. Jan. 25 & 26: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. destinationhopland.com.

Crab & Crémant Train. Crab & Crémant Train. Featuring sparkling wine & bread bowl of crab chowder.

90-minute trip. Departs from Fort Bragg. $10.95–$69. Locals’ discount.

Jan. 25 & Feb. 1: 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Fort Bragg Depot. 100 W. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. skunktrain.com.

FREE Wild About Dragons. A day of activities for kids & adults.

Storytime: 10:30 a.m. Crafts: 11 a.m.

Adult program: 2 p.m. Fort Bragg Library. 499 E. Laurel St., Fort Bragg. fortbragglibrary.org.

Friday 31 Cioppino Dinner. Local wine & beer.

Party in the Barn

C

ommunities have created celebrations in barns for centuries. It’s a tradition that is enjoying a comeback (just notice the increase in barn weddings), and the Kelseyville Business Association is getting in on the action with its Jazz in the Barn Dinner. The event will feature a meal prepared by Chef Jeremy, and live jazz tunes courtesy of the Tom Aiken Quartet. The shindig happens on January 4, 5:30–9:30 p.m., at 4595 Gaddy Lane in Kelseyville. Tickets are $75 and may be purchased at tinyurl.com/rmpm5gy. Attendees are asked to bring a nonperishable food item to donate to those in need. ¶

26 MendoLakeFamilyLife

$40–$50. Ages 6–12: $15. Ages 5 & younger: free. Benefits Mendocino Coast Clinics. Seatings: 4 p.m., 6 p.m. & 8 p.m. Pentecost Hall. 822 Stewart St., Fort Bragg. 961-3463. crabwinebeermendo.org.

Beppe Gambetta. Virtuoso guitarist. $20–$25. 8 p.m. Community Center of Mendocino. 998 School St., Mendocino. kozt.com. brownpapertickets.com.

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

YEARS celebrating

YEARS Online…Mobile…Magazine…eMail…Social…Events…Local…Award-winning mendo lake

Private Schools Local guide

Health Apps Kids’ fitness in a snap

mendo lake

mendo lake

FREE!

FREE!

FREE!

January 2019

February 2019

March 2019

What’s Waldorf?

Learn the basics Mindful Montessori Focused learning

Dog Duty Meet Jack

Make a Date Keep love going strong

Camp Basics 7 great tips V-Day Verve Local fun

Beat learning probs

Disaster Prep Help for special needs

6 good ones

Local egg hunts

Tidy Up Cyber Protect kids

mendo lake

FREE!

FREE!

FREE!

May 2019

June 2019

July 2019

August 2019

Fast & easy treat

Splish Splash!

Go to a city pool

’s Day Father 6 local, fun events

Play in the Sun 50 great ideas Dad Apps

Smart help

July 4!

Local celebrations

Have Kids, Will Travel

Tips for family flying

Word Wise Raise a writer

Solo Sports 12 ideas

FREE!

FREE!

FREE!

September 2019

October 2019

November 2019

Brains for Hire Find a tutor Less Whine, More Shine After-school strategies

Tricks & Treats 7 fun local events

Day-Care Guide 57 facilities—preschools, too

Back to School

Districts’ calendars

Lactation 101 A breastfeeding primer

Protein Power Fast breakie Morning Madness

Winning strategies

mendo lake

mendo lake

mendo lake

Success in Sight

Mom’s Apps

Free to Grow

FREE!

Eco Rain Gardens Cookie

6 local ways to play

Know the options

Snack Attack When is it OK to indulge?

Doulas Deliver How they work

mendo lake

mendo lake

CAMP GUIDE

Choose a Camp

Breast Cancer Know the risks STEAM Up!

Science at home

Practice Gratitude Ways to give thanks

Health Coverage ACA enrollment

Tech in Schools A new future

Foster Love

A mom’s story

’Tis the Season Give Back

As the #1 resource for local families

Stop & Self-care tips When to worry

Cooking with Kids

Kale Power A Hearty Salad for Rainy Days

By Cynthia Lair

A

ll hearty, dark greens work well in this recipe.

If you choose curly-leaf kale, as opposed to lacinato, you may want to massage it a bit more than the directions say because it has tougher leaves.

For a truly vegetarian salad, choose vegan Worcestershire sauce (no anchovies in the ingredients).

Ernie Sapiro

(c)2019 By Cynthia Lair. All rights reserved.

Excerpted from Sourdough on the Rise by permission of Sasquatch Books.

Cynthia Lair is a faculty member at Bastyr University’s Department of Nutrition and Exercise Science and is the founder of their Nutrition and Culinary Arts program. She is the author of Feeding the Young Athlete: Sports Nutrition Made Easy for Players, Parents and Coaches (Readers to Eaters, 2017), Feeding the Whole Family: Recipes for Babies, Young Children, and Their Parents (Sasquatch Books, 2008), and Sourdough on the Rise: How to Confidently Make Whole Grain Sourdough Breads at Home (Sasquatch Books, 2019).

28 MendoLakeFamilyLife

Winter Greens Vegetarian Caesar Hands-on time: 15 minutes Makes 2/3 cup dressing, 4 to 6 servings of salad

For the dressing 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise or aioli 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 2 cloves garlic 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1⁄2 teaspoon sugar 2 tablespoons olive oil For the salad 8 ounces Swiss chard, stems removed, torn into bite-size pieces 5 ounces kale, stems removed, torn into bite-size pieces 1⁄2 teaspoon fine sea salt 3 ounces baby arugula 1⁄2 cup shredded parmesan cheese 1 hard-cooked egg, sliced Freshly ground black pepper

Instuctions In a blender, add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, vinegar, mustard, and sugar. Blend until smooth. Turn the blender on low and slowly add the olive oil to emulsify. Taste, and adjust the sugar, salt (which comes from the Worcestershire sauce), and acid (lemon juice or vinegar) to your liking.

In a large bowl, add the chard, kale, and salt. Using your hands, massage the chard and kale with the salt for 2 minutes, until the leaves begin to soften. Add the arugula and cheese, and toss.

Add the dressing to the greens just before serving. Toss well, garnish with the egg slices and black pepper, and serve.

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

Marketplace Preschools

Schools

Give Your Give Child a Head Start!

Hip Replacements

Get in the Groove

B

lues-loving parents looking for date-night entertainment may find that the Hip Replacements concert is just the ticket. The Bay Area band will play danceable numbers from its repertoire of classic rock and blues tunes on January 20, 6:30–9 p.m., at the Blue Wing Restaurant and Saloon in Upper Lake. There is no cover but reservations are suggested. Call 275-2233. ¶

C E N T E R S

Free Your & Low-Cost Quality Preschool!

• Ukiah Child a classroomsTuition-free ✓ 1/2-day & full-day for Montessori North Ukiah - Bush St. ages 18 months to 5 years Nokomis - Washington Ave. Head elementary South forUkiah ages 5-13 - S. State St. ✓ Potty-trained not necessary Peach Tree - S. Orchard Ave. Start!

Hands-on, arts and music  ✓ Children with disabilities welcome • Willits

integrated with academics Near Brookside School at ✓ Referrals for transportation available Free & Low-Cost Spruce St. & Lincoln Way  National Green Campus Quality Preschool!

• Lake County Also providing FREE in-home services for

 Promotes responsibility, Upper Lake - 2nd Street infants, toddlers & pregnant women!

Head Start Child Development Program

Lake - Clover Valley respect, andUpper peace

www.ncoinc.org Head Start

(707)Development 462-2582 Program License #230111843 Child Applications online: www.ncoinc.org • (707) 462-2582

Lakeport - Howard Ave. Clearlake - Pearl Ave. ClearlakeLocated - Meadowbrookon Dr.

• Coastnorth end of Fairgrounds Fort Bragg - Lincoln St. PO Box 966 Ukiah 95482

707-462-0913 treeoflifeschool@pacific.net www.treeoflifeschool.net



Accelerated Achievement  Academy 

Find a School or After-School Activity in our Online Directories MendoLakeFamilyLife.com

Get Mom’s Attention!

Elena Casanova

We Wanna See the Hands

D

uring the annual Professional Pianists Concert, the stage of the Mendocino College Center Theatre in Ukiah is turned into a living room. On couches and easy chairs, local pianists engage in witty banter and then take turns tickling the ivories of two grand pianos. This year’s performers include Spencer Brewer, Elena Casanova, Wendy DeWitt, Frankie J., Tom Ganoung, Elizabeth MacDougall, Barney McClure, Ed Reinhart, and Charlie Seltzer. In both solo and collaborative performances, they will play work from a variety of genres, from classical to Broadway, Cuban to boogie-woogie, jazz to R&B and soul. Concerts will take place January 10–11 at 7 p.m. and January 12 at 2 p.m. No two will be alike. In its 28th year, the popular event sells out early, so advance ticket purchase is recommended. Tickets are $20, or $30 for “I Wanna See the Hands” seating, and are on sale at Mendocino Book Company in Ukiah, Mazahar in Willits, or online at ukiahconcerts.org.

Proceeds benefit the Ukiah Community Concert Association, the Mendocino College Recording Arts and Technology Club, and the Allegro Foundation Music Scholarship. ¶ www.mendolakefamilylife.com

YOUR AD HERE Classifieds Work Call 586-9562

January 2020

Focused on the future of each child  FREE public school  Support for struggling students  Small classes  Grades 4-12



    

 Call today! (707) 463-7080

mendo lake

LOCAL

#1 local for 30 years resource for local families magazine • web • email • events

Like Us On Facebook MendoLakeFamilyLife 29

Humor Break

have driven home her message: “Take it out faster next time.”

What Happened Awkward Moments to Cute? with Babies

By Heidi Morris

B

abies bring about all sorts of experiences with them, and some of them are just plain awkward.

No matter how well prepared you feel for that bundle of joy, there will come moments when you won’t know what to do. Babies are particularly good at causing scenes, and they don’t even need random screaming sessions to do it. It all will get better. But here are some of those moments you may never forget.

The Wet Spot on the Shirt If you decide to breastfeed your baby, you will probably feel relieved when she sucks for the first time and the milk flows. It may be a little painful at first, but you will be glad that you have enough milk to feed her—and then the endless flow will arrive. As 30 MendoLakeFamilyLife

the baby won’t be feeding non-stop, the breasts may fill up and well, spill. This is a good thing if your little one is constantly hungry. What, however, you won’t be prepared for is the overflow. Fancy walking about with two big wet spots around your nipples. When those spots just keep getting bigger, you will jump into the nearest store, get some breast pads, and then run to the washroom.

The Humiliating Smack on the Boob One day, you will let out your boob in public to feed your little cozy bundle. Then, as you look down into her eyes with all the love and affection you can muster, said bundle will lift her tiny hand and smack you hard on the boob. Everyone will look at you and find it amusing, and the baby will

The Pooper You take off your baby’s diaper and she starts to cry. So, to calm her, you decide to pick her up for a quick feed before fastening a fresh diaper. You start nursing her and two minutes later something warm and moist is on your lap. When you realize what just happened, you want to scream.

Welcome to the wonderful world of motherhood.

The Unexpected Colic Imagine a cool night when you decide to treat yourself to a meal at a Chinese restaurant that you last visited when you still had cravings and a

Something warm and moist is on your lap.

When you realize what just happened, you want to scream. bulging belly. Your baby is calm and even giggling in his car seat—until you pick him up. Then the little one screams, kicks, and yells, not accepting any amount of soothing.

Everyone is looking at you and you are made to understand that you are a nuisance. You have to pick up your crying child and go back home.

Conclusively, babies do have a mind of their own. Being a loving mother, however, you are left with no choice but to clean up, forget all about it, and perhaps even laugh it out later. ¶ Heidi Morris is the author of the parenting/ lifestyle blog Textbook Mommy at textbookmommy.com.

January 2020 www.mendolakefamilylife.com

CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR with Mountain Mike’s LARGE PARTY ROOM • GIANT ARCADE BIRTHDAY PARTIES • FUNDRAISERS ALL DAY HAPPY HOUR ON SUNDAYS

BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY!

FULL BAR IN UKIAH EASY ONLINE ORDERING MOUNTAINMIKES.COM

1090 S. STATE ST., UKIAH • 707-621-9292 898 S. MAIN ST., FORT BRAGG • 707-964-9999

OR GET IT DELIVERED

Made for more family time.

Your family’s good health is your priority—and our mission. Our physicians are in our community to help generations of families to get and stay healthy. From primary care to advanced surgical options. Our team of providers in Ukiah are committed to providing families access to the whole person care they need.

Audiology Wyatt Andrus, AuD Cardiology & Interventional Cardiology Monica Divakaruni, MD Benjamin Meyer, MD David Ploss, MD Jon Portnoff, MD Cardiothoracic Surgery Andreas Sakopoulos, MD

Family Medicine Peter Cho, MD Howard Coren, MD Theron Chan, MD Kimberly Hanneken, MD Monita Yuen-Green, MD Gastroenterology Craig Aronchick, MD Laura Pestana, MD Steven DeNigris, MD General Surgery Gerson Araujo, MD Ziad Hanna, DO Randal Schafer, MD Kathleen Persky, MD

Internal Medicine Iyad Hanna, MD Pain Management Michael Young, DO Bruce Hirshman, DO Pediatrics Peter Cho, MD Kristen Juliet, MD Brynn Stirling, MD Women’s Health Vincent Valente, MD Oncology Hengbing Wang, MD

Ophthalmology Jeffery Adkins, MD Geoffrey Rice, MD Randall Woesner, MD

Pulmonology Ronald Batin, MD

Optometry Lori Schafer, OD

Urology Joanne LaMonica, MD Naum Speigel, MD

Orthopedic Surgery Ephraim Dickinson, MD Paul Charpentier, MD Otolaryngology Susan Cordes, MD Qi Zhang, MD

Rheumatology Anny Wu, MD

Wound Care Charles Jenkins, MD Matthew McQuaid, DPM Jonathan Kreger, DPM James O’Dorisio, MD

You were made for more, so learn more.

Call to schedule an appointment 833-AH-WELLNESS (833-249-3556)