Sonoma Family Life August 2015

sonoma August 2015

Crazy for Apples!

Local fair & presses

Back-2-School Help kids chill out

Stop Mean Girls

Teach kindness

Kinetic Carnivale Steampunk fun!

Saving People Money Since 1936 ... that’s before there were shopping carts.

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Imagine Your Child Cavity Free Petaluma Dental Group has created the Discovery Hub program, which takes place during the kids’ one-hour dental checkups. This fun hands-on learning helps kids develop knowledge and behaviors to support a lifetime of health.

‘more than a dental checkup’

Call for an appointment today!

Join the Club!

www.petalumadental/discoveryhub | 1301 Southpoint Blvd, Petaluma | (707) 520-4300

Birthday Parties Afterschool Programs, Classes Kids ages 4 to 14

707-207-6505

www.engineeringforkids.com/northbay

August 2015

Every Issue

10 About the cover: Photographer Bob Rider (kid whisperer) and our staff had a blast taking pictures of (from left) August Shortridge, Misty Miller, and Emerson Shortridge at Walker Apples in Graton for our cover.

See more photos at sonomafamilylife.com.

Features 10 Grateful for Gravs Get the scoop on Sebastopol’s apple fair.

14 Back-to-School Serenity Strategies

6

Dear Reader

7

=STEM Spotlight

8

Bits and Pieces Power to the Pint-sized Chefs Squeezebox Mojo A Night with the Bard Vaccines a Must to Attend School Take Me to Bali Ha’i Lightning through a Lens

How to help kids keep their cool.

28 Calendar of Events

16 2015–16 School Calendars

37 Light Up Your Summer

All the important dates in one place.

37

A Peach of a Play

42 Humor Break

20 Ahead of the Class Teachers respond to common parent questions.

22 No More Mean Girls Protect your daughter from covert aggression.

14

24 Time for a Checkup What to expect at a sports physical.

26 Full Steam Ahead!

The Willits Kinetic Carnivale re-imagines history.

4 SonomaFamilyLife

24

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

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“Why do They Keep Coming to this Doctor?...”

A Doctor’s Confession to Petaluma (who admits to curing no one)

Dear Friend, I wanted Dear Friend,to let everyone know what happened while I was in college. was a I wanted to let everyone know It what moment that changed my life forever.

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You when I meet people letter. I am theknow guy in the middle, Dr. Taatjes. in town and theyI usually say, in “Oh yeah, You know when meet people town andI know you, you’re Dr. Taatjes.

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August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 5

Dear Reader

I

t’s back-to-school time! If your kids are feeling anxious about the first day, read “Back-to-School Sharon Gowan Serenity Strategies” Publisher/Editor (page 14) for tips Sharon@family-life.us on helping them calm down. If your daughter, especially, is worried about being bullied by her peers, read “No More Mean Girls” (page 22) for ways she can protect herself and stay kind.

If you want to make sure that summer ends with a heaping dose of healthy fun, check out “Grateful for Gravs” (page 10) for the lowdown on the Gravenstein Apple Fair in Sebastopol and the Slow Food Russian River chapter’s Free Apple Press, which will be appearing at various venues.

Looking for an imaginative family adventure? Get your steampunk on, and go to the Willits Kinetic Carnivale and Grand Ball, which we detail in “Full Steam Ahead!” (page 26).

Office Manager Patricia Ramos patty@family-life.us

If you’re secretly thrilled that summer break will soon be over, you aren’t alone.

Local mom and humor writer Holly Hester knows how you feel. Her article “I’m Free!” (page 42) has some hilarious ideas for spending those first few precious moments of kid-free time.

Business Marketing Jolie Cook jolie@family-life.us Renee Nutcher renee@family-life.us

We hope your family’s last days of summer are filled with joy and exhilaration, and that the first day of school bursts with exciting potential.

Marie Anderson marie@family-life.us

Features Editor Melissa Chianta melissa@family-life.us

Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us

Contributing Writers Ellen Cavalli Gerri Chisholm Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts Holly Hester Christina Katz Ty Moore

Art & Soul *Open House* Join Us!!!

Cover Photographer

AUGUST 30TH M

Bob Rider

Calendar Anna Freeman

1PM– 4P

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Publishing Office

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August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

STEM Spotlight

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By Gerri Chisholm

W

hat combines the pull of gravity and the science of aerodynamics with the excitement of the Indianapolis 500? It’s the Boy Scouts’ Pinewood Derby—a competition of wooden model cars that Scouts craft themselves. The Redwood Empire Council, Boy Scouts of America, exhibit at the North Bay Discovery Day will invite you to figure out why some cars are faster than others. Hint: It’s all about aerodynamics.

The shape of a car determines how easily it cuts through air and gains speed. So which car do you think will go faster? The one shaped like an arrow or the one like a brick?

Come to the Boy Scouts exhibit table and find out. There will be many differently shaped cars to try out so you can discover for yourself what makes for a zippy ride.

The North Bay Science Discovery Day will be held at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds in Santa Rosa on October 24, 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m. To learn more, go to northbayscience.org. ¶ www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 7

Bits & Pieces

Power to the Pint-sized Chefs

T

each your kids about healthy eating.

Take them to Kids Cook!, a cooking class designed with third, fourth, and fifth graders in mind. Through hands-on activities, participants will learn how to make simple dishes starring locally grown food. And they’ll learn about farming and the pleasure of seasonal eating, to boot. The class will be held at the Grange at the Shed in Healdsburg on August 5, 3–5 p.m. The fee is $60. For more information, call 431-7433 or see healdsburgshed.com. ¶ Jessica Fichot

Squeezebox Mojo

Y

ou may think that accordions only belong in gondolas floating through Venice, but the venerable squeezebox is a surprisingly versatile instrument.

Listen to it pump out polka, Zydeco, tango, and everything in between at the Cotati Accordion Festival, which runs August 22 and 23, 9:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m., at La Plaza Park in Cotati. Tickets are $19 for one day, $29 for two days ($17 and $27 advance); free for kids 15 and under when accompanied by a paying adult. Purchase them by calling 888-559-2576 or logging on to cotatifest.com. ¶

A Night with the Bard

W

See Shakespeare performed in the Cannery in Santa Rosa.

8 SonomaFamilyLife

ouldst thou enjoy an evening of theatre under the stars? Then go see Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night at the Cannery in Santa Rosa. See local actors perform the Bard’s famous play about a gender-bending love triangle with some seriously funny consequences. It goes something like this: Sebastian is in love with Olivia, who is in love with Viola, who is disguised as a man in order to work for Orsino. It’s a romantic disaster waiting to happen, and you can laugh as you watch it all unfold on stage. Shows are August 1, 7, 8, 14, and 15, and begin at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors (or if you bike to the event), $15 for students, and $5 for kids 14 and under. Find out more and buy tickets at shakespeareinthecannery.com. ¶ August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Vaccines a Must to Attend School

A

fter a great deal of controversy, a new law has been passed in California that makes vaccinations mandatory for children entering public or private schools, or day care centers. The law, signed by Governor Jerry Brown on June 30, is one of the strictest in the country and will go into effect on July 1, 2016. The state joins Mississippi and West Virginia in prohibiting exemptions for personal or religious beliefs.

Now only exemptions for specific medical conditions will be accepted.

The required vaccinations include diphtheria, Haemophilus influenzae type b, measles, mumps, pertussis (whooping cough), poliomyelitis, rubella, tetanus, hepatitis B, varicella (chickenpox), and any other disease deemed appropriate by the state Department of Public Health. Parents who choose not to vaccinate may enroll their children in independent study programs or homeschool them. Âś

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www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 9

Photos by: Karen preuss

Eona Pasternak, Lillian Black, and Sina Smith working an apple press.

Grateful for Gravs Eat, Drink & Celebrate a Local Famous Fruit

By Ellen Cavalli

S

onoma County is known for its wine, but this is also apple country, and no place shows its love for this popular pome fruit better than Sebastopol. From now through the end of October, the area’s orchards

will be bursting with fruit, making this a ripe time to enjoy family-friendly apple-centric activities, including an apple fair, free apple pressing, and u-pick excursions. So gather up the kids and take them to Sebastopol for a bushel of fun!

10 SonomaFamilyLife

Erin Sheffield, chair of the Farm Committee of the Western Sonoma County Historical Society, and Bob Burke of Slow Food Russian River.

Gravenstein Apple Fair Since moving to Sebastopol in 2010, my husband and I have taken our now 8-year-old son, Benny, to the annual Gravenstein Apple Fair. Organized

by Sonoma County Farm Trails, the

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Magical High Tea

Michelle Feileacan

festival will be held August 8–9, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., in charming Ragle Ranch Park, just minutes from downtown Sebastopol. No roller coasters or mob scenes or exorbitant ticket prices. This is quintessential old-fashioned fun for the whole family, with fabulous food, pettable farm animals, toe-tapping live music, old-timey carnival games and contests, country arts and crafts, and an incredible straw maze that delights children of all ages. And of course there are lots and lots of apples! West Sonoma County’s famed Gravenstein apple is the star, and its red-and green-streaked skin and sweet-tart juicy flavor bowls over kids. Farmers and producers line the oak-shaded fairgrounds, selling apples by the crate as well as fresh apple juice, apple pie, apple fritters, apple donuts, apple ice

Never mind that we make cider for a living and literally have tons of Gravs at our disposal. The money goes to support local farmers, and besides, victory never tastes as sweet as an apple you win for yourself!

“The Slow Food Apple Press was really fun because it was easy to press the apples from our farm.”

—Kielson Lawton, age 8

cream—you get the picture. At last year’s fair, Benny spent at least $25 (of our money, of course!) playing a dart game to win a bag of Gravensteins.

Free Community Apple Press What do you do after your kid wins that bag of Gravs at the fair, or you find yourself weighed down with a bumper crop from your own backyard apple tree? Hop on over to the Slow Food Russian River chapter’s Free Community Apple Press. There, you can turn those apples into tasty fresh juice using the group’s old-fashioned hand-cranked barrel presses.

This popular project was launched in 2014 as part of Slow Food’s ongoing mission to preserve and promote

Savor

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And making a little someone feel extra special!

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August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 11

Sonoma County’s apple heritage. The Free Community Apple Press will be operating from August through the end of October, including at Slow Food’s booth at the Gravenstein Apple Fair, the Sebastopol Farmers Market, and the Luther Burbank Experiment Farm in Sebastopol.

Trained Slow Food volunteers will be on hand to assist and answer any 6761 SEBASTOPOL AVE., STE #300, SEBASTOPOL questions. Families get to do the (707) 829-6600 WWW.COFFEECATZ.COM Join Our Club & Receive Specials — Text “coffee catz” to 33791 pressing themselves, and it’s almost as easy as pie. All you need are apples (100 pounds maximum, for a yield of about 2–3 gallons of juice), a few jars or bottles (though Slow Food Saturday, August 15 Proofreading is our clients’ (YOUR) will also have half-gallon jugs for visit website for details A D PRO OF responsibility. Please read the copy carefully. Mark changes & corrections sale), and a little bit of elbow grease.

Open House

Project: Sonoma GD 2015 Ad Size:

OK’d.

COLOR DISCLAIMER: to color6th variations, • ToddlerDue through Gradethis proof does not guarantee the colors shown • Bilingual/Trilingual Classes here on this proof will be duplicat• STEAMedCurriculum in the publication. Please allow • Makersabout Program 10% to 15% difference of hue and shade inHands-on the final publication.

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707-763-9222

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Beyond the simple pleasures that apple pressing affords, children will come away with some important life lessons about the value of agriculture and the people who grow our food (and drink).

“Slow Food Russian River has been working for 14 years to support

CLEARLY.

Ad fee includes ONE revision only.

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The entire process takes only about a half hour, and children of all ages can safely participate, with help from their parents. Older kids can help wash the apples and will get a kick out of cranking the wheel, while tots as young as 4 will enjoy tossing the apples into the hopper to be crushed. And everyone will love to sip the delicious fruits, uh, juice, of their labors!

Where’d Ya Get Them Apples?

A

pple season in west Sonoma County usually lasts from late July to late October, with about two dozen heirloom varieties. The Gravenstein and Pink Pearl are the first to ripen, from late July to late August. Jonathan and Golden Delicious, among other varieties, are ready in September, with Rome, Newtown Pippin, and Arkansas Black, among others, the last to leave the trees, generally in October. All are delicious fresh, dried, canned, and cooked, and make for excellent juice on their own, but try blending varieties to balance acidity and sweetness levels to your liking. Below is a list of family-friendly u-picks and farm stands where you’ll find fresh apples in the Sebastopol area. Visit the Sonoma County Farm Trails website (farmtrails.org) for a listing of other area farms, farmers markets, and local grocers that sell locally grown apples.

U-Picks (call for appointments) Apple-A-Day Ratzlaff Ranch, 13128 Occidental Rd., Occidental, 823-0538.

Gabriel Farm, 3175 Sullivan Rd., Sebastopol, 829-0617, gabrielfarm.com.

K&K Orchard, 1350 Gail Ln., Sebastopol, 823-8102, kkorchard.com.

Farm Stands (hours vary, call to confirm) Hale’s Apple Farm, 1526 Gravenstein Hwy. N., Sebastopol, 823-4613.

Marshall Ranch, Bodega Highway at Spring Hill Rd., Sebastopol, 495-9782.

Walker Apples, 10955 Upp Rd., Graton, 823-4310.

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

12 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

local apple farmers and save the Gravenstein,” says longtime Slow Food Russian River leader and Gravenstein Apple Presidium founder Paula Shatkin. “Every year we do a different project to keep the apples in the foreground and remind folks that apple farmers are people who live in our community. This project brings it

“Kids look with these wide eyes when they realize that what was an apple a minute ago is now juice.”—Paula Shatkin all together. Kids look with these wide eyes when they realize that what was an apple a minute ago is now juice.

They’re used to buying juice in plastic bottles at the supermarket. They learn they can go directly to a farmer to buy apples. They learn what it takes to be a farmer. They learn that apples grow on trees. It’s a complete experience that comes full circle at the apple press.”

Want to check it out for yourself? See demonstrations at the Sebastopol Farmers Market on August 2, 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; and the Gravenstein Apple Fair, August 8–9, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. You can press your own apples at the Luther Burbank Experiment Farm, Sebastopol: weekends 9 a.m.–3 p.m., August 15–October 31 (closed September 26–27 and October 10–11).

Just register for a time slot at slowfoodrr. org. Find ideas for cooking with apples at sonomafamilylife.com. ¶ Ellen Cavalli is a Sebastopol-based mother, freelance writer, and member of Slow Food Russian River and Sonoma County Farm Trails. She and her husband also grow cider apples and run a cidery.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

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Historic Downtown Healdsburg SonomaFamilyLife 13

Back-to-School

Serenity Strategies Seven Ways to Calm Anxious Kids

By Christina Katz

I

f your child is naturally shy, introverted, or resistant to change, you probably won’t be surprised when back-to-school anxiety crops up a few weeks before school starts.

And what if your typically fearless, hyper-social child suddenly starts to exhibit angry outbursts or impulsive restlessness a couple of weeks before school starts? Could this be a sign of back-to-school anxiety?

Certainly. Transitions can be hard for children at any age, especially for kids who have trouble managing change. Sometimes the unknown can cause children with lively imaginations to picture the worst.

14 SonomaFamilyLife

And elementary-school aged children are growing and developing in leaps and bounds, which can often throw physical, mental, and emotional behaviors into an unexpected tizzy.

Here are seven ways to soothe anxious feelings before they become overwhelming.

Transitions can be hard for children at any age, especially for kids who have trouble managing change.

Ask about feelings. Don’t assume your children are totally fine unless they say so. And even then, ask some questions. Try to offer a variety of feelings for your children to choose from. Say things like, “When kids start school they sometimes feel excited, nervous, anxious, scared, or

overwhelmed. What are you feeling?”

Being able to express and describe the experience can often take the edge off. If kids say they are fine, gently question them until you get a more detailed response.

Paint a picture. Take advantage of school tours and meet-the-teacher days to help your children know what to expect. Talk to your children about how nice and orderly school is. Describe how teachers and administrators are in charge, and how a scheduled routine will be followed.

Make sure your children know whom to talk to if they have a problem or concern. Assuring your children that there is a plan and steady leadership in place can help them relax. If they feel panicky, reassure them that they will quickly catch on to school routines, and then when you come to visit, they will be able to show you the ropes.

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Keep the teacher informed.

If your children are seriously struggling with anxiety beyond what might be considered first-day jitters, keep their teachers in the loop.

Teachers are trained to handle every kind of situation that may come up in the classroom. And your children might respond more positively to input from adults other than their parents. If the situation does not improve after the first-day hurdle is cleared, consider getting a school counselor involved as well.

Model a you-can-do-it attitude, even if it’s not the way you actually feel in the moment.

Prepare the launch pad. Your children will be comforted by tasks that prepare them for school. Resist the urge to do everything for them or try and shield them from the preparation process. Together you can gather lunch-making necessities, shop for school supplies, and select school clothes. These are all concrete tasks that can bring anxious children back down to earth. Why not create a preparation checklist for all of you, and tick tasks off as they are completed?

Focus on the positive. Even if your kids are nervous about starting school, they are also probably looking forward to some aspects of the experience. What about seeing their friends every day? Taking the bus?

Perusing libraries full of books? Do what you can to “prime the positive” for the first few weeks. Offer a special school snack, a chance to watch a www.sonomafamilylife.com

favorite show right after they get home, or a daily call to Grandma to share their adventures.

Practice the new routine.

The week before school starts is an important time for rehearsing the new schedule. Get your children to bed earlier, wake them up at the appropriate school-day time, and feed them well. Then, before you send them off to play or do chores, say, “If today were a school day, it would be time to go to the bus stop.”

Post the daily school-day schedule and go over it with them as the big day draws near.

Be extra calm yourself. If you are contending with your own anxiety about sending your children off to school, discuss your feelings with understanding adults, out of earshot of your children. Remind yourself that your children are resilient and strong, and will adjust to change just fine with support.

If you are too quick to jump in and mediate every situation, you might be interfering with their opportunity to see what they can do for themselves. So be there, be calm, but don’t hover. Model a you-can-do-it attitude, even if it’s not the way you actually feel in the moment.

Life is full of ups and downs and so is school. Letting your child experience academic challenges and victories will build character and healthy self-esteem. Enjoy surfing the waves together! ¶

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Christina Katz has shed her fair share of tears after dropping her daughter off for her first days of school. Sometimes the tears surprised her, but eventually she didn’t need them any longer.

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 15

2015–16 School Calendars

First Day

Thanksgiving

Alexander Valley Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27 Dec. 18–Jan. 31 Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 3

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Bellevue Union

Aug. 12

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

May 26

Sept. 7, 8, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, 19

Bennett Valley Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Sept. 7, Oct. 9, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, 19, May 30

Cinnabar

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Cloverdale Unified

Aug. 20

Nov. 25–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 11–15

Mar. 21–25

June 2

Sept. 7, Oct. 9, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, Apr. 29, May 30

Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 18–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Sept. 7, Oct. 12, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Dunham

Aug. 19

Nov. 25–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 2

Sept. 7, 28, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Forestville Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 1

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Fort Ross

Aug. 24

Nov. 25–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 8

Nov. 10, Apr. 6, Apr. 20, May 30

Aug. 19 Nov. 25–27 Dec. 10:32 21–Jan. 1-3 page 071515 Final.pdf 1 7/17/15 AM1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 2

Sept. 7, Oct. 16, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 6, 30

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First Day

Thanksgiving

Winter Break Presidents Days Spring Break

Last Day Other Days Off

Gravenstein Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 25–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 3

Sept. 7, Oct. 12, Nov. 10, 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Guerneville

Aug. 26

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 9

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Harmony Union

Aug. 20

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 12, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 7

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Healdsburg Unified

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 9

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Horicon

Aug. 24

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 15–19

Apr. 4–8

June 9

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, 19, May 30

Kashia Elementary

Aug. 24

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 16–20

Apr. 4–8

June 9

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, 19, May 30

Kenwood

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 9, 16

Mar. 21–25

June 2

Sept. 7, 16, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, Feb. 29, May 30

Liberty Elementary

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 12–16

Mar. 21–28

June 2

Sept. 7, Oct. 30, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, Mar. 28, May 30

Mark West Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 3

Sept. 7, Oct. 2, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Oak Grove Union

Aug. 18

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 2

Sept. 7, Oct. 12, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Old Adobe Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Sept. 7, Oct. 2, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Petaluma City

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 18–25

June 3

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Piner-Olivet Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 3

Sept. 7, Oct. 9, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

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August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 17

2015-16 School Calendars

First Day

Thanksgiving

Winter Break Presidents Days Spring Break

Rincon Valley Union

Aug. 18

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 23–27

June 3

Sept. 7, 18, Nov. 6, 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Roseland

Aug. 18

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 2

Sept. 7, Oct. 12, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Santa Rosa City Elementary

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 2

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Santa Rosa City High

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 3

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Sebastopol Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 25–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 2

Sept. 4, 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Sonoma Valley Unified

Aug. 17

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 12, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 2

Sept. 7, Oct. 2, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, Feb. 29, May 30

Twin Hills Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 2

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

Waugh

Aug. 18

Nov. 19–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 3

Sept. 7, Oct. 2, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, Feb. 29, May 30

West Side Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 18–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 8

Sept. 7, Oct. 2, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, Feb. 29, May 27, 30

West Sonoma County High

Aug. 19

Nov. 25–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 1

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

June 2

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan.18, May 30

Wilson Elementary

Aug. 24

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 9

Sept. 7, Oct. 16, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, Apr. 29, May 30

Windsor Unified

Aug. 13

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 21–Jan. 4

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–28

May 27

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18

Wright School District

Aug. 24

Nov. 23–27

Dec. 22–Jan. 5

Feb. 8, 15

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Sept. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 18, May 30

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Ahead of the Class

By Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts Talk, Talk to Children Question: All I see everywhere are parents either talking, texting, or searching for messages on their cell phones in the presence of their children. No one seems to talk to children anymore. How is this affecting children?

For More Personal Attention Answer: There has been very little research on the effects of adults (parents and caregivers) being tied to their phones in the presence of kids. One study noted that children in fast-food restaurants reacted either by entertaining themselves—often with tablets or mobile devices—or simply misbehaving.

Since the development of language in young children is strongly dependent on adult-child conversation, it only makes sense for cell phones to usually be put away when adults are around children.

Choosing Great Planners Question: The school wants our young children in elementary school to use planners. However, the teachers have not made very specific recommendations. What should I be looking for?

Need Advice

Answer: The type of planners children use depends upon their grade level. The younger the child is, the smaller the planner should be. They do not need heavy, bulky planners. In early elementary school, a planner should have: 1. Plenty of space to write down assignments, as younger children usually have large handwriting.

2. A front and/or back pocket to bring work home from school and assignments and forms to school.

3. A spiral binding so papers will not fall out and be lost.

Depending on what a teacher may require, it can also be handy to have pages for logging the books a student has read and spelling words.

As children advance to later grades, schools may provide planners or require a specific planner. These planners are usually larger and offer more options. A calendar is definitely necessary so the children can write down the dates when assignments and reports are due, as well as the schedule of family events, extracurricular activities, and appointments. © Compass Syndicate Corp., 2015

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

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August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 21

No More Mean Girls How to Raise a Kind Kid

“K

Sound familiar?

Mean girls are everywhere. They pop up as early as kindergarten, and usually by the fourth grade. Whether friends or acquaintances, their brand of covert aggression can include gossip, backstabbing, and harsh judgments.

When we face these kinds of behaviors, we also face an uncomfortable reality: There is not 22 SonomaFamilyLife

Define meanness. Rudeness, meanness, and bullying can be defined in different ways. Meanness is intentionally hurtful, as opposed to rudeness, which is unintentionally hurtful; bullying is intentionally

Advise your daughter to step back from emotionally charged situations.

By Christina Katz

aren always says the dumbest things.

Only losers would hang out with her.”

One more girl setting an example of how to be kind and emotionally intelligent, despite being pressured by peers to do otherwise, can help turn the tide. Here are six crucial ways parents can help middle schoolers to cultivate kindness and protect themselves from mean girls.

much we can do to stop other kids from being mean. We can report the behavior to their parents or to school or organization authorities, but that’s about it.

We can, however, stop mean-girl behavior from developing in our own daughters. If parents can encourage their daughters to stay open, vulnerable, and in touch with their feelings no matter what, we might be able to dismantle the mean-girl time bomb that ticks silently away inside every girl, just waiting to go off when that girl is pushed too far.

and consistently hurtful. Teach your daughter how to differentiate between these behaviors, especially how to tell the difference between someone who is consistently and purposefully mean, and someone who simply makes a mistake. Make sure your child understands that it’s okay to make mistakes, and that you expect her to be kind regardless of circumstances.

Encourage self-acceptance over popularity. Left to their own devices, kids will always decide that being popular is better than being just one in the crowd. In middle school, popularity is perceived as power, and kids instinctively hunger for it. Make sure you don’t secretly hope your child will be one of the popular kids. If you do, you may inadvertently encourage her to value how others perceive her more than how she feels about herself, and this can lead to low self-esteem. If you accept and like your daughter as

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

she is, she will be more likely to accept and like herself—no matter what anyone else thinks of her. A girl who is nice to herself is more likely to be nice to others—and to bounce back from hurtful words.

Teach how to detach from drama. Advise your daughter to step back from emotionally charged situations. Girl vendettas are common in middle school and

In middle school, popularity is perceived as power, and kids instinctively hunger for it. can ignite for the slightest reasons.

When such a situation erupts, your daughter may empathize with one or both girls and inadvertently get sucked into a feud. Encourage her to avoid taking sides. Teach her to listen to the facts and form her own opinion without getting involved in any drama.

Be her safe harbor. Authentic self-expression can be a struggle for teen girls. Let your daughter know she can be honest and real with you, even if she is having trouble saying to her peers what she really means. Don’t give in to the common misperception that teenagers need to be left alone.

She may push you away and not want to talk as much as she used to, but your middle schooler needs help navigating her brave new social world. If you expect her to do it on her own, she is going to feel stressed and look for friends who can help her take the edge off. You have to be there every day, listening and responsive, whenever she wants to talk. www.sonomafamilylife.com

Keep your negativity in check.

When confronted with a challenging situation, your daughter will intuitively imitate the way you behave. If you project negativity onto others, she is going to learn to do the same. If you are insecure, she will be insecure. If you are superior and competitive with others, she will follow suit. If you judge and condemn...I am sure you get the picture. You can’t hold your daughter accountable for her attitudes and actions if you are not accountable for yours. Be sure you set a good example, or your daughter’s behavior may end up reflecting your least appealing qualities.

Reinforce and challenge your daughter’s strengths. Girls who are confident about their positive

qualities are less likely to become mean or to fall prey to a mean girl’s attacks; they can shrug off a negative encounter and easily bounce back. So make sure you often point out your daughter’s strengths and give her opportunities to use her gifts in your community. If you focus only on her weaknesses, she is going to believe she is a walking, talking pile of “not good enough”—fertile ground for either becoming, or being a victim of, a mean girl.

Follow these six points, and you will have a good shot at raising a kind and confident daughter who is never the target of a mean girl. ¶ Christina Katz and her teen daughter enjoy watching chick flicks, going out to eat, shopping, and talking about life.

Empowering Reads For Parents Michelle Anthony and Reyna Lindert, Little Girls Can Be Mean: Four Steps to Bully-proof Girls in the Early Grades

(St. Martin’s Griffin, 2010).

Rachel Simmons, Odd Girl Out: The Hidden Culture of Aggression in Girls (Mariner Books, 2011).

Rosalind Wiseman, Queen Bees and Wannabes: Helping Your Daughter Survive Cliques, Gossip, Boyfriends, and the New Realities of Girl World (Harmony, 2009).

For Kids Patti Kelley Criswell, A Smart Girl’s Guide: Friendship Troubles: Dealing With Fights, Being Left Out, and the Whole Popularity Thing (American Girl, 2013).

Patti Kelley Criswell, A Smart Girl’s Guide to Knowing What to Say (American Girl, 2011).

Patti Kelley Criswell, Stand Up for Yourself and Your Friends: Dealing with Bullies and Bossiness and Finding a Better Way (American Girl, 2009).

Nancy Holyoke, A Smart Girl’s Guide: Drama, Rumors & Secrets: Staying True to Yourself in Changing Times (American Girl, 2015).

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 23

such as asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy • previous hospitalizations or surgeries • allergies (to insect bites, for example) • past injuries (including concussions, sprains, or bone fractures)

Time for a Theof aABCs Sports Checkup Physical Y

ou know that playing sports helps keep kids fit and are a fun way for them to socialize and make friends. But you might not know why the physicals kids may have to take at the beginning of their sports season are so important.

About Sports Physicals In the sports medicine field, the sports physical exam—or preparticipation physical examination (PPE)—helps determine whether it’s safe for a kid 24 SonomaFamilyLife

to participate in a particular sport.

Most states actually require that kids and teens have sports physicals before they can start a new sport or begin a new competitive season.

But even if PPEs aren’t required, doctors still highly recommend getting one.

The two main parts to a sports physical are the medical history and the physical exam.

Medical History This part of the exam includes questions about: • serious illnesses among family members • illnesses that kids had when they were younger or may have now,

• whether the child has ever passed out, felt dizzy, had chest pain, or had trouble breathing during exercise • any medications taken (including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and prescription medications) The medical history questions are usually on a form that you’ll fill out with your child. Looking at patterns of illness in a family is a good indicator of any potential conditions kids might have. Most sports medicine doctors believe the medical history is the most important part of the sports physical exam, so take time to answer the questions carefully. It’s unlikely that any health conditions your child has will prevent him or her from playing sports completely.

Physical Examination During the physical part of the exam, the doctor will usually: • record height and weight • take a blood pressure and pulse (heart rate and rhythm) reading • test your child’s vision

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

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• check the heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat • evaluate your child’s posture, joints, strength, and flexibility Although most aspects of the exam will be the same for males and females, the doctor may ask girls and guys different questions if they’ve started or already gone through puberty. For example, if a girl is heavily involved in a lot of

It’s unlikely that any health conditions your child has will prevent him or her from playing sports completely. active sports, the doctor may ask her about her period and diet to make sure she doesn’t have something like female athlete triad, a condition that can involve disordered eating, amenorrhea, and osteoporosis.

A doctor will also ask questions about use of drugs, alcohol, or dietary supplements, including steroids or other “performance enhancers” and weight-loss supplements, because these can affect a person’s health.

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At the end of the exam, the doctor will either fill out and sign a form if everything checks out OK or, in some cases, recommend a follow-up exam, additional tests, or specific treatment for medical problems. ¶ This article reprinted with permission by the Nemours Foundation. © The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth

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Santa Rosa

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3781 Cleveland Ave 707-595-6505

SonomaFamilyLife 25

Kinetic Carnivale Brings Steampunk to Willits

Full Steam Ahead!

B

Revelers at the Willits Kinetic Carnivale

owler hats, corsets, and handcars are making a come back, thanks to the steampunk movement. Celebrate them all—and learn about local history—at the Fourth Annual Willits Kinetic Carnivale and Grand Ball on August 22, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. (ball 7 p.m.–1 a.m.), and August 23, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., at the Mendocino County Museum in Willits.

stumble upon the Gypsy Time Travelers, who tell stories with the help of a blacksmith and a Land Yacht—a kind of mini-castle on wheels that boasts two turrets and a functional water wheel.

In case you aren’t in the know, steampunk is a movement in which people create clothing, art, and vehicles based on a fantastically re-imagined era of steam-powered machinery.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to wear costumes. But if you don’t have one, don’t worry. You can build your own right at the carnivale (or opt out all together). Buy steampunk clothing and accessories on site, or make your own fascinator hats and goggles at the festival’s Make-and-Take stations. You can even download a Steampunk Costume Guide from kineticcarnivale.com.

As you walk around the festival grounds, you may be entertained by a roaming member of Circus Maximus or 26 SonomaFamilyLife

One of the big draws of the festival is the handcar race.

Pedal-powered contraptions once used to maintain the tracks, handcars become vehicles of self-expression at the carnivale. In previous years, they have been constructed from a repurposed red velvet couch, festooned with a giant pineapple, and transformed into a yellow submarine.

You can watch this year’s outlandish entries race on August 22, 1–3 p.m., at the Skunk Train Depot.

If you have kids in tow, be sure to visit the Whimsy Circus, an area dedicated to out-of the-ordinary children’s activities and games. At the Rivalry Regatta, kids can propel floating plastic toy boats with just a spray of water from a bottle.

“It sounds simple, but it was a huge hit last year,” says Mendocino County Museum volunteer Neeka Aguirre.

“People get very excited about winning.”

After the boat race, kids can dig for gems and dinosaur bones hidden in a big box of sand at the Archeology Station. Or

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

they can mosey on over to the T&T Balloon Pop, grab a bike pump, and compete to be the first one to blow up a balloon.

you can also learn about the history that has inspired the steampunk movement. The museum’s steam engine exhibit and the carnivale’s antique stopwatch and vintage sewing machine displays make it easy.

After your tour of the Whimsy Circus, take a waltz or swing dance lesson (available to all ages) or hop on the Big Swing, a four-poster bed rigged up to be a very cushy ride.

If you find yourself a bit overwhelmed by all the activity, escape to the Tea Room, where young costumed gentlemen will serve you and the kids a free hot or iced tea while you listen to a lecture on life in the Victorian era.

For Mendocino County Museum Director Alison Glassey, holding the carnivale at the museum seems only natural.

Go to the Whimsy Circus, take a waltz or swing dance lesson, or ride on the Big Swing.

“The Mendocino County Museum is all about bringing history to life,” she says. “Dressing up in steampunk style, seeing how the vintage sewing machine works, coming together as a community, dancing, listening to music—that’s all part of people connecting to history, and making it more real.”

While the carnivale certainly promises to entertain, the Grand Ball features the real showstoppers— belly dancers, aerialists, and fire dancers as well as a flame-spewing motorcycle. There will also be live music and vintage movies shown outside on a projection screen.

There are steampunk events all over the country, but the Willits Kinetic Carnivale is unique because it’s held in a museum. This means that while you are having a good time,

So dress up in your best fascinator hat and make history your own at the Fourth Annual Willits Kinetic Carnivale and Grand Ball. Tickets for the carnivale range from $5–$10, $30–$35 for the Grand Ball, and are available at kineticcarnivale.com. ¶

PURSUE SOMETHING NEW! Join us for a FREE Information Session.

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Health Navigator Certificate Monday, August 10 @ 5pm-6:30pm, Salazar 2022

Audio and Recording Production Certificate Thursday, August 13 @ 7-8pm, Ives 32 Recording Studio

Construction Management Certificate Tuesday, August 11 @ 6-7pm, Schulz 1121

Saturday B.A. Degree Completion Program Saturday, August 15 @ 10:30am-12pm, Stevenson 2079

Project Management Certificate

Thursday, August 20 @ 6-7pm, Schulz 1121

Human Resource Management Certificate Tuesday, August 25 @ 7-9pm, Green Music Center 1057

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August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 27

August

Calendar of Events A Peach of a Play

I

f your kids love to read Roald Dhal, they won’t want to miss watching James and the Giant Peach come to life on stage. See James escape the tyranny of his wicked aunts thanks to a mysterious man, some magical crystals, and a peach with limitless potential for growth. The show comes to the Cloverdale Performing Arts Center in Cloverdale on August 7, 8, 14, and 15 at 7:30 p.m. and August 9 and 16 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $12–$18 and may be purchased at cloverdaleperformingarts.com. ¶

Saturday 1 FREE Kids’ Bowling. 2 free games

per kid under 18 every day. Thru Aug. 31. Double Decker Lanes. 300 Golf Course Dr., Rohnert Park. doubledeckerlanes.com.

FREE Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market. Open year-round.

Wednesdays & Saturdays. 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Wells Fargo Center for the Arts.

50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. thesantarosafarmersmarket.com.

KaCees Car Wash Car Wash Discount

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320 Rohnert Park Expressway Open Daily 7am–8:30pm

28 SonomaFamilyLife

Sonoma County Fair. This year’s

theme is Down on the Farm. Thru Aug. 9. Hall of Flowers, horse races, carnival. Closed Mondays. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. $5–$8. 6 & under free every day. Ages 7–12 free on Fridays.

Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. sonomacountyfair.com.

FREE Novato Space Festival. Meet

legendary astronauts & see a lunar

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

module & moon buggy. Astronaut Scholarship Foundation on hand.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. The Space Station Museum. 464 Ignacio Blvd., Novato. thespacestationca.org.

Kids’ Cabaret 2015 Summer Rep Theatre Festival. A musical showcase

featuring some of the best-loved songs for children of all ages. Benefits the SRT Scholarship Fund. 2 p.m. $15.

Santa Rosa Junior College. Burbank

MonkeyJumperZ.com

Birthday Parties Public Skating Fundraisers Private & Group Instruction

CAL SKATE Roller Skating & Blading Center

585-0500 • FOR RESERVATIONS: 585-0494 6100 COMMERCE BLVD. • WWW.CALSKATE.COM

Monkey JumperZ Bounce House Rentals Birthday Parties • Daycare Centers Carnivals • Schools • Corporate events and all your bounce house needs (707) 978-2144

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Auditorium. 1501 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. summerrep.com.

8th Annual Petaluma Music Festival.

Proceeds benefit music education in Petaluma schools. Featuring Lumanation, Rainbow Girls, Nahko & Medicine for the People, more.

Noon–9 p.m. $40. Sonoma–Marin Fairgrounds. 175 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. petalumamusicfestival.org.

FREE Science Saturday. Tangible experiments & projects let children explore the natural world. Spring Lake.

Environmental Discovery Center.

393 Violetti Rd., Santa Rosa. parks. sonomacounty.ca.gov.

FREE A Black Comedian on Black Comedy. Darryl Littleton, the first

African-American on the Advisory Board for the Comedy Hall of Fame, relates the history of black comedy.

2 p.m.–3:30 p.m. Central Santa Rosa Library. 211 E St., Santa Rosa. sonomalibrary.org.

FREE Hula Mai. Hula Mai will

dance, sing, chant & share stories of Hawaiian hulas & music. 2 p.m.

Northwest Santa Rosa Library. 150 Coddingtown Center, Santa Rosa. hulamai.org.

GOT LICE?

TREAT TODAY… GONE TODAY! • Unique system for lice removal.

• 100% guaranteed on 1st visit.

• Certified operators. • FDA cleared.

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www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 29

Wings AFTER-SCHOOL

MARTIAL ARTS PROGRAM

SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMP

Sunday 2 Boating at the Barn. Volunteers help you try a nonmotorized vessel (yours or theirs) on the Petaluma River. Try canoe, kayak, rowboat, or sailboat.

Open year-round. Sundays. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. David Yearsley River Heritage Center. Copeland & D Streets, Petaluma. friendsofthepetalumariver.org.

FREE Live at Julliard. Sunday

summer concert series. Aug. 2: The Honey Dippers. Aug. 9: The Soulshine Blues Band. 5–7 p.m. Juilliard Park.

227 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa. srcity.org.

Monday-Friday 7:30 am-6 pm

• Daily Martial Arts Classes • Swimming, Movies • Weekly Adventures • Science, Art & Discovery Labs

(707) 544-2302

www.wingsmap.org 3644 Airway Dr., Santa Rosa

FREE Bodega Bay Community Farmers Market. Food, shopping,

live music, beautiful venue. Thru Oct. Sundays. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Bodega Bay Community Center. 2255 Hwy. 1, Bodega Bay. bodegabaycommu nitycenter.org.

Salmon Creek Beach Run. 5-mile & 2-mile runs followed by a beach blanket potluck picnic. 10 a.m. Empire Runners no charge. Nonmembers $20. Salmon Creek State Beach. Hwy. 1 north of Bodega Bay. empirerunners.org.

Monday 3 Rock-n-Glow Bowling. Family fun with LED lane-lighting & automated scoring. Special bumper-rails for kids. Mondays. 5–10 p.m. $9 for 2 hours. Shoes included. Windsor Bowl. 8801 Conde Ln., Windsor. windsorbowl.com.

Tuesday 4 FREE Petaluma East Side Farmers Market. Open year-round. Rain or shine.

Tuesdays. 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Lucchesi Park. 320 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma. communityfarmersmarkets.com.

Kids of All Ages LOVE the Fishetarian!

Take a fun, family day trip out to Bodega Bay & stop by to see us!

We have many Kids Meal options to choose from, and they all come with a fishy cookie and gold fish crackers! Grown ups can choose from our many other fresh seafood & vegetarian options, including: A local, fresh & sustainable seafood case Fresh Rock Cod Panko Crusted Fish & Chips Mention Sonoma Grilled Fish Tacos that will Rock your world!

Family Life Magazine Award Winning (& gluten free) Clam Chowder for a FREE cup of local oysters (prepared 3 fabulous ways) chowder! incredible fried calamari & prawns organic farm fresh salads & spring rolls Plus Many Gluten free options & “grab n go” Locally made, Organic snacks!

We are a certified “Bummer-Free Zone!”

599 Highway 1 South (next to Lucas Wharf) Bodega Bay 707.875.9092 • www.fishetarianfishmarket.com 30 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

FREE Healdsburg Music in the Plaza. Food vendors open at 5 p.m.

Tuesdays. 6–8 p.m. Thru Aug. 25.

Matheson St. & Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. ci.healdsburg.ca.us.

FREE Lunch at the Library.

Partnering with Redwood Empire Food Bank to provide nutritious meals for children 18 & younger at 6 library locations during the summer. Thru Aug. 14. Noon–12:30 p.m. Cloverdale Regional Library. 401 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. sonomalibrary.org.

Wednesday 5 FREE Wednesday Night Market. Live

performances & fresh produce. Thru Aug. 19. 5–8:30 p.m. Downtown Santa Rosa. wednesdaynightmarket.org.

FREE Peacetown Concert Series. Tom Rigney & Flambeau.

Wednesdays. 5–8 p.m. Ives Park.

Sebastopol. seb.org.

FREE Introduction to 3D Printing Workshop. See the MakerBot

Replicator 2 3D Printer in action!

Attendees receive certificate of completion. All ages. 6–7:30 p.m. Petaluma Regional Library.

100 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. sonomalibrary.org.

SANTA ROSA CO-OP PRESCHOOL

EST. 1951 A Place to Play. A Place to Learn. A Place to Grow.

• Pre-Kindergarten class for academic & social Kindergarten readiness • To support our families, we provide parenting tools & classes to work together as a team for your children • Adlerian Positive Discipline: ~ Kind AND Firm tools ~ Encouragement tools with mutual respect for children & adults, to achieve cooperation

Now accepting applications for 2015/16 school year

579-3718

1201 Piner Rd, Santa Rosa

SUPERSTORE NOW OPEN

srecschool.org www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 31

Thursday 6 FREE Windsor Summer Nights on the Green. Great live music, family

lawn games, fresh produce. Thru Aug. 27. Thursdays. Market opens at 5 p.m.

Music 6–8 p.m. Windsor Town Green. ci.windsor.ca.us/index.aspx?NID=342.

FREE Concerts Under the Stars.

Aug. 6: Kalimba—Earth, Wind & Fire tribute. Aug. 20: Jazz with Nicolas Bearde. 5:30–8 p.m. Montgomery Village Court. 911 Village Ct., Santa Rosa. mvshops.com.

Friday 7 FREE Sonoma Valley Certified Farmers Market. Open year-round.

Fridays. 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Arnold Field. 241 W. First St., Sonoma. svcfm.org.

FREE Bodega Marine Laboratory Tours. Explore the dynamic

biodiversity of the Northern California Coast. Fridays. 2–4 p.m. 2099 West Side Rd., Bodega Bay. bml.ucdavis.edu.

FREE Party on the Plaza. Rohnert Park farmers market. Bring your lawn chair & blanket. Fridays. Aug. 7: The Rolling Blackouts. Aug. 14: Stax City. Aug. 21: Lost Dog Found. Aug 28: Beatles Flashback. 5–8 p.m. City Center Plaza. 6250 Lynne Conde Way, Rohnert Park. rpcity.org.

Rhythm of Life. A celebratory musical adventure that will inspire you to march to the beat of your own drum.

Weekends. Thru Aug. 23. Doors 5 p.m.

Performance 7:30 p.m. $42 general.

Jack London State Historic Park.

2400 London Ranch Rd., Glen Ellen. transcendencetheatre.org.

Saturday 8 FREE Kids Outdoor Summer Movies. The Boxtrolls. Show: 15

minutes after sunset. Windsor Town Green. townofwindsor.com.

Gravenstein Apple Fair. Live music

on 2 stages, arts & crafts vendors, children’s corner, do-it-yourself tent, local wine & cider. Thru Aug. 9. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $12–$15. Ages 6–12 $10. Ages 5 & under free. Ragle Ranch Regional Park. Sebastopol. gravensteinapplefair.com.

Astronomy Day & Star Party! The

Robert Ferguson Observatory’s 3 main telescopes will be open for viewing. 9 p.m. Adults $3. Under 18 free. Parking $8. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. 2605 Adobe Canyon Rd., Kenwood. rfo.org.

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First time client exams Limited spots call to check availability Limit One Pet & Coupon Per Household

Mon. –Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat 9am–1pm

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2002 4th St, Santa Rosa www.SantaRosaVet.com

32 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

After School Farm Program

n a o D c M anchld R Shuttles available from Santa Rosa Schools

• Horseback Riding & Lessons • Arts & Crafts • Field Trips • Farm Animals • Archery & more

Program Held at Sky Tree Ranch Guerneville Rd, Santa Rosa www.mcdonaldranch.org • 707 537 0955 until 8pm

SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO

GET BRACES!

Parties & Parents Night Out

• AFFORDABLE MONTHLY PAYMENTS ~ • SE HABLA ESPANOL • NO HEADGEAR OR FIXED EXPANDERS • NO DOWN PAYMENT

It’s not just

Gymnastics...

It’s confidence for a lifetime!

CALL (707) 575-0600 FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION! NO REFERRAL NECESSARY!

• Tumblebug Program for preschool aged children • Boys & Girls Classes Recreation 6–12 • Tumbling & Tramp Classes

707-763-5010 www.regymnastics.com

www.sonomafamilylife.com

reg

redwood empire gymnastics

www.BernsteinBraces.com

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 33

Violin lessons

Cross & Crown Lutheran School

Where the JOY of learning meets the JOY of the Lord

Melanie Webster; MA Instructor & Performer

Enrich your child’s life!

Prize Winning Students Beginning to Advanced Levels Private Lessons, Groups & Chamber Music Suzuki & Traditional Methods

Register Now for 2015/2016 2 - 5 years Preschool Jr. Kindergarten - Kindergarten 1st - 6th Grade Preschool license #490100475

Call or email to visit our school:

www.mwviolin.com 823-3268

(707)795-7863 www.crossandcrownschoolrp.org

Sunday 9 Tour d’Organics. Eat local. Ride

local. Fuel your athletic pursuits with a bicycle tour of organic, fresh, locally sourced food. 16–100-mile routes. 6 a.m.–6 p.m. Adults $45–$100. Ages 13–17 $25–$55. Sebastopol Community Cultural Center. 390 Morris St., Sebastopol. seb.org.

Water to Wine 10K & Half Marathon.

Start & finish at Kendall Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens. Packet pick-up & pre-race expo: Noon–5 p.m.

Aug. 8. Race starts at 7 a.m. sharp! $80–$120. Kendall Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens. 5007 Fulton Rd., Santa Rosa. runwinecountry.com.

Wednesday 12 FREE Foster Parent Information Meeting. 6 p.m. 565-4274 to register.

We’ll meet you at your stop!

12

20

60

30 44

10

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Human Services Family, Youth & Children’s Services. 1202 Apollo Way, Santa Rosa. sonomafostercare.org.

FREE Picture a Story Artist Talk: Kathryn Otoshi. Award-wining

author/illustrator presents her new book Beautiful Hands. Her books are used in anti-bullying/ confidence-building programs in

Put Your Affairs in Order • • • • • •

FREE Consultation

Nominate Guardians for Minors Revocable Living Trusts Wills Powers of Attorney Meet at Your Home

Evening & Weekend Appointments Available

707-431-7250

Maria Grace Wilson, Attorney at Law mgracewilson@comcast.net 34 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

schools across the country. 6–7:30 p.m. Sebastopol Regional Library.

7140 Bodega Ave., Sebastopol. sonomalibrary.org.

Thursday 13 FREE Night at Charles M. Schulz Museum. Free ice cream cake from

Cold Stone Creamery while supplies last. Free photo booth until 7 p.m. provided by Runaway Photo Booth.

5–8 p.m. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. schulzmuseum.org.

FREE Rockin’ the River 2015 Concert Series. Aug. 13: The Sun

Kings. Aug. 27: Dan Hicks. Farmers market, art fair. 6–8 p.m. Guerneville Plaza. Guerneville. rockintheriver.org.

Friday 14 FREE Movies in the Park. Aug. 14:

The Emperor’s New Groove. Aug. 21: Paddington. Aug. 28: Big Hero 6. Dusk

(approx. 8 p.m.) Howarth Park. 630 Summerfield Rd., Santa Rosa. srcity.org.

Sunday 16 Alex Ramon #NewMagic. Illusionist

FREE Napa Main Street Reunion Car Show. Registration open to

has mesmerized millions around the world. Friendly enough for kids, edgy enough for adults. 3 p.m. $35.

Showcase Theater. Marin Center.

10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. alexromanmagic.com.

pre-1976 cars. Aug. 14: Show & Shine 5–8:30 p.m. Aug. 15: Car Show—Main St. Reunion: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Main St., Napa. donapa.com.

Saturday 15

Wednesday 19

FREE Sonoma County Children’s Music Open House. Sing, dance & receive fun

prizes. 867 3rd St., Santa Rosa. 527-7900. childrenlovemusic.com.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. The Tony Award–winning

musical comedy of adolescent angst.

Thru Sept. 7. 8 p.m. Sunday matinees 2 p.m. Adults $35. Seniors $30. Students with ID $10. Raven Performing Arts Theater. 115 North St., Healdsburg. raventheater.org.

FREE River Friends of the Library Summer Book & Bake Sale. 4–7

p.m. Aug. 20: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Aug. 21: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Aug. 22: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Guerneville Regional Library. 14107 Armstrong Woods Rd., Guerneville. sonomalibrary.org.

Friday 21 FREE Mensona All Breed Dog Show. Agility, rally & obedience.

Thru Aug. 23. 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Parking

POOL FUN FOR ALL AGES ADAPTIVE AQUATICS SWIM LESSONS

Luxury Restroom Trailers Locally Owned 5-Star Rated Extravagant Flushing Bathrooms Professional Service Impress your guests with our Imp luxurious loos. Our restrooms are ideal for weddings, corporate events, birthday parres, and other fancy events.

ARTHRITIS EXERCISE FAMILY SWIM

AQUA AEROBICS

See us at the Wedding Expo September 20th, 2015 at the Wells Fargo Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa, CA.

707-55-FANCY fancyflush.net

www.sonomafamilylife.com

PRE/ POST NATAL CLASSES

FAMILY LAP SWIM

LAP SWIM

Sonoma County Family YMCA 1111 College Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95404 • 707-545-9622 • F 707-544-7805 The Y is a non-profit Community Organization. Financial Assistance is available. www.scfymca.org

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 35

Sonoma County Airport lot B $7. Sonoma County Fairgrounds.

1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. sonomacountyfair.com.

SCHOOL OF DRAMA!

Travel on Nonstop Flights to/from Los Angeles; Portland; San Diego; Seattle

STUDY THEATRE WITH THE BEST

Experience Flight Training Aircraft; Helicopters

Discover Scenic Tours

CLASSES FOR ALL AGES!

Aircraft; Helicopters; Balloons; Historic Aircraft

There is something for everyone!

www.6thStreetPlayhouse.com

Call (707) 523-4185 Today!

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FALL CLASS REGISTRATION BEGINS AUGUST 1ST!

www.sonomacountyairport.org 707.565.7240 Follow STS on

Bob Rider photography

Family Portraits Individuals • Families • Events BobRiderPhotography.com • (707)245-5321

Mary Poppins. One of the most popular musicals of all time. Thru Aug. 30. 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. $16–$26. Spreckels Performing Arts Center. 5409 Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park. rpcity.org.

Saturday 22 Anova Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for ACE Sonoma Campus. Live music, magicians,

magic lessons, juggling, face painting, balloon twisting, inflatable slide, photo booth, robotics & kids’ play area, BBQ & local cuisine & beer & wine tent. 1–4 p.m.

Wells Fargo Center for the Arts (back lawn area). 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. 527-7032. anovaeducation.org.

25th Anniversary Cotati Accordion Festival. Featuring Polkacide, Mad

Maggies, Sourdough Slim & many more. Thru Aug. 23. 9:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Adults $19 or $27 for both days. Seniors $17 or $27. Ages 15 & under free when accompanied by paying adult. La Plaza Park. Cotati. cotatifest.com.

Sunday 23 Colbie Caillat & Christina Perri.

Grammy-winning singer & multi-platinum artist come together for a girls’ night out. 5 p.m. $25 & up. Sonoma State University. Green Music Center. Weill Hall & Lawn.

1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. gmc.sonoma.edu.

Santa Rosa Marathon, Half & 5K. Races start at Julliard Park &

marathon ends at DeLoach Vineyards.

Start times: 6, 7 & 8 a.m. Prices vary.

Julliard Park. 227 Santa Rosa Pl., Santa Rosa. thesantarosamarathon.com.

36 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Tuesday 25 FREE National Parks Entrance Day!

Celebrate the National Park Service’s birthday with free entrance to any national park. nps.gov.

Saturday 29 21st Annual Bodega Seafood, Art & Wine Festival. 4 stages of

entertainment. Kids’ activities.

Free parking. No dogs. Aug. 29: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Aug. 30: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $15. Seniors $13. Ages 12–18 $11. Under 12 free. Watts Ranch. 16855 Bodega Hwy., Bodega. bodegaseafoodfestival.com.

FREE DIY Drought Solutions. Find practical solutions to reduce your water use. Fun kids’ activities. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Santa Rosa City Hall.

100 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa. wateroff.org.

Sunday 30 FREE Art & Soul Music Open House.

Meet the teachers of yoga, drama, dance, art & music. 1–4 p.m. 4861 Old Redwood Hwy., Santa Rosa. artandsoulmusic.com.

Family Portraits Wedding, Engagement & High School Senior Photographer

Light Up Your Summer Point Arena Lighthouse, Point Arena

By Ty Moore

S

ituated on the point farthest west to Hawaii and shouldered up against the first land leg of the California Coastal National Monument, the Point Arena Lighthouse stands as the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast that visitors can climb all the way to the top. Built in 1907, the lighthouse replaced the 1870 tower damaged in the Great 1906 San Francisco Earthquake. The point itself juts a half-mile into the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by water on three sides. On calm, sunny days the grounds are ideal for picnics and whale watching, while on more blustery days the shelter of the 1896 Fog Signal Building offers protected views of the ocean, a treasure-seekers gift shop, and a special museum display of the tower’s First Order Fresnel Lens. For those seeking to spend a little more time with the lighthouse, there are six lodging units available for rent, year-round, where guests can listen to waves and sea birds to their content. Lighthouse tours are available 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. in the summer and 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. the rest of the year. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. See pointarenalighthouse.com for more information.

Ty Moore is the executive director of the Point Arena Lighthouse and a writer with work in the California Writers Club Annual Review and The Bloodstone Review. See tjamesmoore.com.

The view from the top of the Point Arena Lighthouse.

707-892-3565

www.natashamcguire.com

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 37

Come Pick Your Own Apples!

Make a day of it! Bring a picnic & the kids out to Ratzlaff Ranch

U-Pick Apples

at Sebastopol Ratzlaff Ranch

Home of Apple-A-Day Cider

We start u-pick apples as soon as Yellow Delicious and Rome apples are ripe—early September.

We provide picking bags and boxes if needed. Fresh and Frozen Apple Juice will be available on site.

Picnic tables are also available. For further information, call 707-823-0538.

Ratzlaff Ranch, 13128 Occidental Rd., Sebastopol Hours: 9am–5pm: Sunday–Wednesday & Friday • Closed Saturdays & Thursdays Please call before coming, in case the apples aren’t ripe yet: 707-823-0538.

38 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Classified Marketplace Services

Lessons

Lessons

PIANO & SINGING LESSONS IN YOUR HOME We can help!

New students get 1st lesson free!

Piano: Ages 6 & older Singing: Ages 12 & older

Since 1984

 Paternity and Child Support Order Establishment  Payment Collection Services  Payment Tracking and Accounting  Child Support Modification

Sonoma County Child Support Services 3725 Westwind Blvd., Ste 200 Santa Rosa, CA 95403

546-7987

Western Riding Lessons Youth Camps & Birthday Parties

In-school, after school, homeschool, & private sessions Ages 3-12 New classes enrolling in August

Your one stop cake, candy, party & wedding shop

Classes R * A * N * C * H

Kristine Sheets Stewart 415-302-8118 horsemom302@aol.com crossroadsranchridingstable.com Ride with us in Penngrove, California

Mindfulness for Schools & Families

Lessons

Check Out Our New Online Directories SonomaFamilyLife.com

• Candy Making • Cake Decorating • Party Supplies • Private Parties • Helium Tank Rentals 3450 Airway Dr, Santa Rosa 546-2253 • nancysfancys.com

AFTER SCHOOL WITH PONIES! •Self-Esteem •Responsibility •FUN!

Riding Lessons for Children European Pony School

707-540-1702

546-7669

JoyfulMindProject.org

europeanponyschool.com

Visit our new mobile-friendly website

SonomaFamilyLife.com

Like Us On Facebook

FIRST LESSON

FREE!

Services 707-484-1188

Hair & Skin Care for the Entire Family!

Special for 1st time clients.

Call for an appointment 707 665-5826 7 days a week

Champagne Hair Lounge

7981 Old Redwood Hwy. • Cotati

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Services

NEED TUNING?

We Can Help!

Getting the Schools to Help Your Special Need Child

W

Cut & color $65

Sign up for after school classes today!

www.jessesaldana.com 5425 Stony Point Road • Santa Rosa

Sonna, Crystal, Katie, Lindsay, Megan, Melanie, and Morgan

Special

Teaching the art of the sword

RIDE

MARK WEST STABLES WITH

US! Wwww.markweststables.com

(707) 538-2000

|

Professional Piano Tuning 20% Off - Mention this ad 18 years experience, Sonoma County Ron Sondergaard Piano Service silvertune@gmx.com

707-888-0158

888-536-9640•www.paces.solutions

August 2015

SonomaFamilyLife 39

Classified Marketplace Counseling

Real Estate

Lessons

Parties

We Make Your Event –Our Event COME SEE US AT THE SANTA ROSA WEDNESDAY NIGHT MARKET!

Taking care of your families needs as if they were her own Is Your Child Defiant, Stubborn, or Aggressive?

· Tenting · Lighting · Dance Floors · Linen · Tables/Chairs · Delivery/Pickup · And Much More

CHESS FOR KIDS at your school!

527-6427

www.chessclubforkids.com

707-544-4132 • pterentals.com 115 Lystra Ct., Santa Rosa

Health

It doesn’t have to be that way.

Julie Kitchens, Sales Associate

We know how difficult and frustrating it can be when everything you have tried has not worked. Through a highly effective program for children 3-6 years old, we can help you to successfully manage these behaviors. Start to see results in as little as 6 sessions.

www.rickobrien.com •BRE#01733874

415.686.0535

Auto

Call today for a free consultation

Endermologie Massage Proven Effective for

Cellulite Reduction

10 OFF Birthday Party $

And Fibromyalgia Scar Tissue and More Free Evaluation & Sample Massage

707-545-4600 www.srcbt.org

Endermologie

“I NEVER KNEW WE COULD HAVE SUCH FUN WITH OUR CHILD AGAIN!”

613 College Avenue, Santa Rosa

Check Out Our New Online Directories 40 SonomaFamilyLife

Call 206-5613

5212 Old Redwood Hwy, Santa Rosa www.bodytec-massage.com

COLLEGE GRADS CALL NOW! For information on our no hassle College Grad Discount Program

Petaluma Nit Flix All Natural Non-Toxic Lice Removal Solutions!

794-9533 374 Blodgett Street • Cotati pumpitupparty.com/cotati-ca

HAVING A PARTY OR EVENT? Liven it up! with balloon artists Katie & Luke

Call today: 877-818-6866 www.northbaynissan.com 1250 Auto Center Drive Petaluma, CA 94952

where your imagination comes to play

Lice Removal Salon (or in home options) 707-484-2711

411 B Street, Suite 6 • Petaluma www.petalumanitflix.com

Katie's Balloons

707-539-1818 ktsballoons@gmail.com

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Bodega Bay Public School

Childcare/Preschools

Montessoriin Windsor Fun! Join us!

... the school with vision and a view

Now enrolling grades K-5 • Small multi-graded classes • Afterschool enrichment and childcare.

• Art, music and Spanish language instruction.

• Partnership with Bodega Marine Lab.

Call to Schedule a tour www.bodegabay.shorelineunified.org

Visit our new mobile-friendly website

Morning, Afternoon or Full Days till 2:30 Organic Meals Spanish Class Every Day Academics & Fun! Small Class of 12 - Two Trained Teachers www.montessorifun.com

Tutors

Childcare/Preschools

Program of First United Methodist Church Year-round • Play based Ages 2 - 5 (Pre-Kindergarten) Excellent Teacher-Child ratios Open 7am-6pm

YMCA PRESCHOOL

YMCA PRESCHOO

GROW.LEARN.THRIVE YMCA PRESCHOOL

GROW.LEARN.THRIVE SANTA ROSA GROW.LEARN.THRIVE 2590 PINER SANTA RD. ROSA

Diane: 546-7012

preschool@fumcsantarosa.org www.fumcsantarosa.org/preschool License#490110699

FUMC

Part Time2590 /Full Time Care PINER RD. Flexible Plans Part TimeAvailable /Full Time Care Flexible Plans Available Serving 2-5 year olds

SANTA ROSA 2590 PINER RD. Serving 2-5 year olds

Part Time /Full Time Care

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: Health & Flexible Nutrition, Motor Skills, Plans Available

Health & Nutrition, Relationships, Motor Skills,Self Interpersonal Serving 2-5 year Interpersonal Relationships, Self Confidence, and Cognitive & Academic Skills. & Confidence, and Cognitive PRICING & Academic Skills.

REGISTRATION:

Preschool & Child Care Center

Enrolling for Summer and Fall

YMCA Program Office The Y isConfidence, a non-profit community based organization. and Cognitive 707.544.1829 Financial Assistance is available.

Academic Skills.

Start the School Year Off Right!

PRICING & REGISTRATION: Casa dei Bam

Our high quality tutors can help with:

YMCA Office b io’s Program Since 1981 707.544.1829 Montessori School

Academic Subjects • Test Prep Foreign Languages Study Skills • ESL

Don’t wait until your child falls behind (707) 585-2584

Preschool•Kindergarten The Y is a non-profit Parent-Toddler Class community based Ages 18 months organization. to 6-years

Financial Assistance is available.

sonomacountytutors.com

Now Enrolling

Like Us On Facebook

sonoma

537-8889

2810 Summerfield Road, Santa Rosa bvmontessori.com

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Montessori Education Inspires ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Children’s Circle 2.5-3.5+ yrs.

Kinderclub 3-5 yrs.

Montessori in Motion 3-6 yrs.

Joy of Learning Order & Detail Concentration Grace & Courtesy

2427 Professional Dr. • Santa Rosa Near Steele Lane & Hwy 101

707-528-0889•www.rhioscasa.com

(Now offering Kindergarten)

Thriving Academics, Creativity, & Well-being

LOCAL for 23 years

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

&

The Y is a non-profit community based organization.

Financial Assistance is available.

Early Childhood Education Programs NOW INCLUDING KINDERGARTEN!

Developing the Foundations for a Lifetime of Creative Learning

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:

707.544.1829

PRICINGwww.scfymca.org & Health & Nutrition, Motor Skil REGISTRATION: Interpersonal Relationships, S

SonomaFamilyLife.com

• Traditional Montessori Curriculum • Ages 2 - 6 years old • Kindergarten Program • Summer Program

olds

ini

707 875-2724

Home Preschool license #490170838

Childcare/Preschools

Rh

Schools

Register at the Parks and Recreation Office 9291 Old Redwood Hwy., Bldg 300D, Windsor 838-1260 • townofwindsor.com/preschool

JANBOREE PRE-SCHOOL A fun filled curriculum for 3 & 4 year–olds. 8:30 –11:30 a.m. Mon.– Fri. $15 per day.

Dunham-Hessel area. 795-8568. www.janboree.com License #490111872

August 2015

The Bridge School. Located in Central Santa Rosa, 1625 Franklin Ave. Year-round full/half–day. Rich nurturing environment.

Center based program for ages 3–5 with separate 2’s program. Caring, qualified teachers. Julie & Andrew Day; owners.

Lic.#493005697. 575-7959.

Playtime Daycare/Preschool Join our loving family. Spacious playroom, large yard, meals provided. CPR & first aid certified.

M-F. Infants & up. Call Wendy 539-7524. Lic. #04746.

SonomaFamilyLife 41

Humor Break

’ I m Free!

Mom’s Back-to-School Emancipation Checklist

By Holly Hester

7

Sit down. The kids have left for their first day of school. The house is miraculously silent. Not even the dog is moving. No one is asking for a snack. No one is shoving a board game onto your lap. No one needs swim goggles adjusted. No one is fighting because THERE’S NO ONE HOME! Sure, you’ll miss the kids and long for those fun summer days— eventually, but not yet. Right now it’s all about the highly anticipated, tearful reunion between your butt and the couch.

6

Read a bad magazine.

You’ve finished all the weighty, thought-provoking summer novels Oprah recommended and now it’s time to get down to more important business—celebrity hookups, divorces, and plastic surgeries gone horribly awry. Ah, that’s better. Life is so much 42 SonomaFamilyLife

easier when you’re not trying to set a good example for anyone.

5

Call someone.

Call anyone.

Your mom. An old college friend. Call Comcast about your bill. Make a crank call. It doesn’t really matter. The point is that the phone is suddenly wonderful

Right now it’s all about the highly anticipated, tearful reunion between your butt and the couch. again because no small person is interrupting you while you’re on it—or worse, eavesdropping on your conversation. You can curse on the phone! You can gossip on the phone!

You can talk about your children on the phone! You can curse and gossip about your children on the phone! It’s amazing. Just pick it up and start venting!

4

Throw away toys you hate.

You know those loud, battery-operated toys that some vengeful relative sent your children over the summer? Well, now is the perfect moment for a reconnaissance mission into your kid’s bedroom. Discreetly select several hateful toys, and shove them into a black garbage bag. On the way to Goodwill, practice saying with a straight face, “No, I haven’t seen that toy. Have you tried looking in your closet?”

3

Eat. Eating is nice, isn’t it?

Eating is really nice when you don’t have to share every single thing you’re putting into your mouth with one of your spawn. Eating is exceptionally nice when it’s a big chocolate bar, and you’re standing in the middle of your living room dancing around in your underwear screaming, “I’m free! I’m free!”

2

Exercise. Actually, better yet, make an exercise plan. You don’t want to rush into anything. You could accidently hurt yourself. Take a look at the calendar. Halloween is just around the corner, and then Thanksgiving, followed shortly by Christmas. So it’s best to start exercising next January.

Now sit back on the couch and continue reading that trashy magazine.

That’s an order!

1

Breathe. Haven’t done that in a while, have you? Just breathe in.

Now breathe out. See, you’re getting the hang of it. Children are incredible. They are the reason we get up in the morning and the reason why we do everything throughout the day. And, while they fill us with indescribable amounts of joy, they also seem to drain the life out of us at the same time. So don’t feel guilty about being excited they’re back in school, and don’t busy yourself doing things you think you “should” be doing.

Take a moment for you. In fact, take lots of moments. You deserve it.

Just breathe. (And eat lots of chocolate.)

Holly Hester lives in Sebastopol and writes about life on her blog, Riot Ranch. Find her book, Escape from Ugly Mom Island!, on Amazon.

August 2015 www.sonomafamilylife.com

The North Bay’s Only Classical, Christian School NOW ENROLLING FOR 2015/2016 K-8TH GRADES

Why Send Your Child to Harvest for a Classical, Christian Education?

• We use the time-tested Classical methodology • We have a Christ-centered curriculum • We have small class sizes • We teach to develop the whole child - Spiritually, Artistically, Academically, Athletically • We develop character and integrity in students • We read physical, hard copy, classical books • We teach Latin

COME VISIT HARVEST!

Harvest in Action Open Houses 2nd Wednesday of every month 9:30 - 10:30 am » SCHEDULE A TOUR » SCHEDULE A SHADOW DAY IN ANY CLASSROOM

www.facebook.com/harvestpetaluma | www.HarvestPetaluma.org

707-763-2954