Sonoma Family Life November 2018

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FREE!

November 2018

Turkey Day

Special diets

Smart Help Hire affordable tutors

Give Back Make it fun!

Stress Less Free local healings

VOTED BEST

PEDIATRICIANS 2018

Best Pediatricians Recommended by Your Neighborhood Moms Congratulations to the Winners Dr. Mary Katherine Brown, Santa Rosa Dr. Leland Davis, Santa Rosa Dr. Armando DePala, Petaluma Dr. Vanessa deSousa, Santa Rosa Dr. Charles De Torres, Sonoma Dr. Lars Hansen, Santa Rosa

Dr. Kevin Hamann, Santa Rosa Dr. Faye Lundergan, Petaluma Dr. Kenneth Prosser, Santa Rosa Dr. Brian Prystowsky, Santa Rosa Dr. Adrienne Silver, Santa Rosa Dr. Thomas Zembel, Santa Rosa

Keeping Sonoma County Families Healthy!

Doctor’s Confession to Petaluma

Dear Friend, I wanted to let everyone know what happened while I was in college. It was a moment that changed my life forever. But before I tell you about my experience, I wanted to tell you my story from the start.

Let me start by explaining the photo in this letter. I am the guy in the middle, Dr. Taatjes.

You know when I meet people in town and they usually say, “Oh yeah, I know you, you’re Dr. Taatjes. You’ve been serving the community for Thirty years! Well that’s me. We are now centrally located in our beautiful new office to better serve the community.

Thirty-four years ago something happened to me that changed my life forever.

Let me tell you my story.

I was studying pre-Med in college, in hopes of becoming a medical doctor.

Things were looking up, and life was good, until things took a turn for the worse.

I began to have terrible back and stomach problems. For a young guy, I felt pretty rotten.

My back hurt so badly that I had a hard time even concentrating in class. I was miserable.

The medical doctors tried different drugs, but they only made me feel like I was in a “cloud.”

I was just not getting better. A friend of mine convinced me to give a chiropractor a try. The chiropractor did an exam, took some films and then “adjusted” my spine. The adjustment didn’t hurt — it actually felt good. I got relief, and I soon was off all medication. It worked so well that I decided, then and there, to become a chiropractor myself.

Now for my kids, Hayden and Henry. They have been under chiropractic care their entire lives. And, unlike most other kids in their class, they never get the “common” childhood illnesses like ear infections, asthma and allergies. In fact, they have never taken a drug in their lives. And they are now 23 and 24!

It’s strange how life is, because now people come to see me with their back problems and stomach problems. They come to me with their headaches, migraines, chronic pain, neck pain, shoulder/arm pain, whiplash from car accidents, asthma, allergies, numbness in limbs, athletic injuries, just to name a few.

If drugs make people well, then those who take the most should be the healthiest,

Dr. Taatjes with his sons, Hayden (left) and Henry (right). but that simply isn’t the case. With chiropractic, we don’t add anything to the body or take anything from it. We find interference in the nervous system and remove it, thus enhancing the healing capacities of the body.

We get tremendous results…it really is as simple as that.

Here’s what some of my patients had to say: “I have had a problem with migraines as well as low back pain. Even after seeing doctors and other health professionals, the pains remained. After coming to Dr. Joel, they have helped me tremendously. They even take away my migraines. They’re great!” (Judy E.) “I came in pending laser surgery for two herniated discs. Over a few months here the need for surgery subsided, and the pain has subsided to a mild discomfort with occasional morning stiffness. Over all, I feel better visit after visit. It’s a gradual process.”

(Jaime O.) Several times a day patients thank me for helping them with their health problems. But I can’t really take credit.

Find out for yourself and benefit from an AMAZING OFFER. Look, it shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg to correct your health. You are going to write a check to someone for your health care expenses, you may as well write one for

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a lesser amount for chiropractic. When you bring in this article by Nov. 30, 2018, you will receive my entire new patient exam for $27. That’s with x-rays, exam, report of findings…the whole ball of wax. This exam could cost you $350 elsewhere. Great care at a great fee…

Please, I hope that there’s no misunderstanding about quality of care, just because I have a lower exam fee. You’ll get great care at a great fee. My qualifications…I’m a graduate of Northwestern College of Chiropractic who regularly goes to monthly educational chiropractic seminars. I’ve been entrusted to take care of tiny babies to neighbors that you may know. I just have that low exam fee to help more people who need care.

My associates, Dr. James Rogers, Dr. Shawn Lorenzen and I are ready to see if we can help you. Our office is both friendly and warm and we try our best to make you feel at home. We have wonderful service, at an exceptional fee. Our office is called REDWOOD CHIROPRACTIC. We are located at 937 Lakeville Street Petaluma, and our phone number is 763-8910. Call Alex, Brenda, Erica or Christine today for an appointment. We can help you. Thank you.

-Dr. Joel Taatjes P.S. When accompanied by this ad. I am also offering the second family member this same examination for only $15.

November 2018

Every Issue 5

Crafting with Kids Bath Salt Bonanza

16 Features

6

Dear Reader

7

Cooking with Kids Soup Up Squash

8

Bits and Pieces Singing Pups Hunt for History Lend a Helping Hand Lego Love

10 The Healthy Holiday Host

12 The Great Family Give-Back

Gluten-free or dairy-free guests? No problem!

Creative ways to contribute.

14 Smart Help How to find a good tutor.

16 The Wonder of Words Cultivate a love of reading.

18 Homework Hero

Learn about Wellness Plants for Pregnancy Super Honored

9

24 Calendar of Events Chuggin’ into Town

34 Humor The Case of the Missing Library Book

Tips for helping kids to stay focused and calm.

20 Stress Less How to take care of body and spirit.

22 9 Birthdays in 1 Week Helping an adopted child heal.

4 SonomaFamilyLife

8

5 November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Crafting with Kids

Bath Salt Bonanza DIY Holiday Gifts

By Christina Katz

A

s the gift-giving time of year approaches, try making bath salts. For less than two dollars per gift, you can create thoughtful tokens of appreciation. Here’s how to do it.

Organic materials Organic ingredient with a strong scent (fresh or dried rose petals or lavender buds) Several drops of pure essential oil to complement organic ingredient 8 lbs. Epsom salts

Gather or purchase organic ingredients. The more you include the stronger the scent of the salts and the prettier their appearance, so get more than you think you’ll need.

Once you’ve gathered the organic ingredients, carefully inspect them for insects. The last thing you want to do is give a gift full of bugs.

Spread your clean petals or buds out in one layer on two cookie sheets and leave them in the oven overnight. (Make sure no one turns on the oven in the meantime.)

Single-hole-punch

The next day, mix together the three salts and the baking soda in a large container. In a roasting pan, cooking pot, or any large non-leaching metal container (we like disposable roasting pans) alternate spreading a layer of salt mixture and then a layer of organic material. Don’t layer the organic material too thickly as you want the salt mixture to absorb the oils from the petals or buds. Once you are finished, cover the container with a double layer of paper towels and then tin foil. Put away the container in a cool, dry place and let sit for a couple of weeks.

12 yds. sheer ribbon to match color of organic ingredient

Assemble canning jars with caps off.

Open up salt mixture and smell. There

1 tube sea salt (26.5 oz.)

2.2 lbs. dark pink Himalayan salt 1 box baking soda (16 oz.)

Other materials Roasting pan or cooking pot Paper towels Tin foil 12 pint-size canning jars 12 labels in colors to complement bath salt colors Marker(s) to address labels

www.sonomafamilylife.com

November 2018

should be a fairly strong scent. If the scent is not as strong as you would like, try mashing the mixture with a potato masher. If the scent is still not as strong as you prefer, add several drops of essential oil and stir the mixture until the scent comes through.

Scoop bath salts into the jars, slightly overfilling and then shaking each jar.

Cap jars and put whatever salts are leftover (between a pint and quart) in a sealable glass container.

When you are ready to package the bath salts, address labels. With hole-punch, make hole on one end of each label. Cut ribbon to arm’s length and poke through hole. Tie a bow snugly below the mouth of each jar.

Store your salts in a cool, dry place until gift-giving season rolls around.

And smile, because when the holidays arrive, you will be ready!

Christina Katz does not consider herself particularly crafty, but she had a blast making bath salts with her daughter anyway.

SonomaFamilyLife 5

Dear Reader

I

t has begun: the holiday season and all the joy (and busyness) that comes with it.

We’re here to help make it easier.

Sharon Gowan Publisher/Editor See “The Healthy Sharon@family-life.us Holiday Host” (page 10) for simple ways to create a meal that everyone, no matter what their diets, can eat. Want to make sure your kids really get into the spirit of the season? See “The Great Family Give-Back” (page 12) for creative ways the clan can contribute to the community.

and spirit calm and relaxed.

Even though the holidays are in high gear, school keeps chugging along. And that means homework as usual. If your kids struggle to stay on task, read “Homework Hero” (page 18) for tips for keeping them interested and motivated. If students have serious academic troubles, consider hiring a tutor.

“Smart Help” (page 14) has tips on finding one you can afford.

We hope your Thanksgiving is full of familial togetherness and love.

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

With all of the hustle and bustle, make sure your own needs don’t get left behind. See “Stress Less” (page 20) for ways to keep body

Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us

Web and Social Media

Bennett Valley Union School District Registration for Kindergarten and Transitional Kindergarten (Kinder Bridge) for 2019-20 School Year begins February 5 & 6

Call 542-6272 to sign up

A limited number of interdistrict transfer requests for 2019-20 will be accepted

California Distinguished Schools

Yulupa Primary School Preschool–Third Grade 2250 Mesquite Drive, Santa Rosa 707 542-6272

Strawberry Intermediate School Fourth–Sixth Grade 2311 Horseshoe Drive, Santa Rosa 707 526-4433

Consistently high student academic achievement at both schools

YMCA provides on-site child care

Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Christa Melnyk Hines Christina Katz Janeen Lewis Cheryl Maguire Rachael Moshman Karen Nochimowski Meagan Ruffing Ashley Talmadge

Billing

Your child’s joy of learning is nurtured with our: • Excellent Teachers • Reduced Class Size (K–3) • Kinder Bridge Transitional Kindergarten • Extended Day Kindergarten (8:30-1:25) • Fully Staffed Libraries and Technology Labs • Visual and Performing Arts Programs

Natalie Bruzon natalie@family-life.us

Jan Wasson-Smith

• Band, Percussion and Chorus (4th–6th) • Boys’ and Girls’ Interscholastic Basketball (4th–6th) • Emphasis on Environmental Stewardship • Gifted and Talented Education (4th–6th)

Publishing Office P.O. Box 351 Philo, CA 95466 (707) 586-9562

Call to reserve tours: Yulupa 1/15, 1/23, 2/12, 2/20, 3/5, 3/27, 4/17 Strawberry by reservation only 526-4433 Registration Packets available Jan. 7. Children must be five on or before Sept. 1, 2019 to be eligible for kindergarten.

Two year Kinder Bridge program offered for children turning five on or after Sept. 2, 2019.

707 542-2201 • Visit us at www.bvusd.org 6 SonomaFamilyLife

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Cooking with Kids

Soup Up Squash Add Color & Flair to Your Holiday Meal

By Momma Chef

I

know it’s probably not fair for me to toot my own horn about my recipe, but this is hands-down the best butternut squash soup you will ever make. Not to mention how unbelievably easy it is to prepare. I like to add cream cheese to give the soup a rich texture. But if you want to make it dairy-free, you can put in ½ cup of your favorite milk substitute and the soup will still be delish. Make sure to add the cream cheese or milk substitute when the soup is done cooking, right before it’s blended.

Find the recipes of Karen Nochimowski, aka Momma Chef, on mommachef.com. Each of her recipes contains six or fewer ingredients and takes under six minutes to prepare. Momma Chef’s latest endeavor is the creation of a soup kitchen. See mommachef.com/soup-kitchen.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Simple and Delicious Butternut Squash Soup Ingredients • 1 chopped onion • 1 tbsp. olive oil • 32 oz. cubed butternut squash • 1 box (32 oz.) vegetable broth • 8 oz. low-fat cream cheese (or ½ cup milk substitute) • 1/3 cup brown sugar

Tips 1. I get my cubed butternut squash from Costco. It comes in a 32 oz. container.

2. When serving, I like to sprinkle the soup with cinnamon and chopped pecans.

November 2018

Instructions 1. In a large saucepan, sauté the onion in olive oil over medium heat for 3 minutes.

2. Add cubed butternut squash.

Mix and cook another 2 minutes.

3. Add the vegetable broth and 8 oz. water.

4. Cover partially and cook over medium heat for 25 minutes, until butternut squash is very tender.

5. In a blender, food processor, or soup emersion, puree soup, cream cheese, and brown sugar in batches until smooth.

Serves: 8

SonomaFamilyLife 7

Bits & Pieces

Singing Pups

P

uppies are all about cute. And kids dressed up as puppies—well, decide the cute factor for yourself at a Theatre for Children’s production of 101 Dalmatians KIDS. See a bunch of canines outsmart the infamous Cruella De Vil and free her imprisoned dogs. Kids who come dressed as Dalmatians will get a chance to join the cast on stage; just make sure they arrive a half hour before show time for a little rehearsal. The 30-minute musical will be performed at the Steele Lane Community Center in Santa Rosa on November 2 and 9 at 7 p.m.; November 3 and 10 at 1 and 3:30 p.m.; and November 4 and 11 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $5 and may be purchased at atheaterforchildren.com. ¶

101 Dalmatians KIDS

Hunt for History

L

ooking for a way to keep holiday visitors entertained? Mystery Missions has an idea that might just be the ticket: scavenger hunts. Participants tackle brain-teasing clues and learn about local history and culture along the way. Hunts are $14.95–$24.95 with kid and adult versions available in Windsor and adult versions offered in Sonoma and Healdsburg. See thesonomist.com for details. ¶

Mystery Missions

Lend a Helping Hand

I

f you are looking for a service project for kids, consider participating in the North Bay Family Volunteer Day. The event will be dedicated to creating holiday decorations for the Sonoma Valley Holiday Gifting Program, a program that brings holiday cheer to low-income families.

Kid-friendly activities include making cards, creating snowflakes, and setting up trees and Santa’s sleigh. This free volunteer opportunity will happen on November 17, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., at the Sonoma Marketplace Shopping Center in Sonoma. Find out more by searching on “North Bay Family Volunteer Day” on evenbrite.com. ¶

8 SonomaFamilyLife

Brick Palooza

Lego Love

I

f your kids have a passion for Legos, they aren’t alone. The multicolored, pegged bricks, which have been around since the 1950s, are a staple of many toy boxes.

Explore imaginative uses for them at Brick Palooza, a festival devoted to Legos. Take in a large exhibition of Lego art, watch demos, and let the kids learn from hands-on activities or just do their own thing in play areas. It all happens on November 11, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., at the Santa Rosa Veterans Building in Santa Rosa. Tickets are $10–$60 and are available at thebrickhutt.com/brick-palooza-festival. html or eventbrite.com. ¶

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Learn about Wellness

A

s cold and flu season knocks on our door, experts advise us to take extra steps to fortify our bodies. Wondering where to start? You might find some ideas at the YMCA Wellness Fair. Get a needle-less acupuncture treatment, find out about Ayurvedic and other nutritional strategies, take an exercise class, and get a chair massage. There will also be diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol screenings. The event is free and will be held on November 17, 8:30–11:30 a.m., at the Sonoma County YMCA in Santa Rosa. For more information, go to scfymca.org or call 545-9622. ¶

Superintendent Steve Herrington

Plants for Pregnancy

F

or centuries women have used herbs to help them through the trials of pregnancy and labor.

Tap in to contemporary knowledge about this ancient practice at the workshop Birth Herbs.

Learn about what kinds of herbs are helpful and when during the birth process to use them. There will be tips on postpartum care, too. The class costs $35 and will be held on November 13, 6–8 p.m., at a private location in Santa Rosa. (Address disclosed upon registering, which may be done at blessingwayherbals.com.) ¶

www.sonomafamilylife.com

November 2018

Super Honored

L

ast year’s wildfires devastated Sonoma County schools and families. And Superintendent Steve Herrington played a major role in the relief and recovery efforts. For his service during the crisis and its aftermath, the California County Superintendents’ organization (CCSESA) recently bestowed on him its highest level of recognition, the Executive Leadership award. State Superintendent Tom Torlakson commended Herrington’s work in a letter that was read when the award was presented at CCSESA’s 2018 General Membership Dinner in Redwood City.

Torlakson wrote, “Working long hours, Superintendent Herrington engaged in constant communications with local, regional, state, and federal agencies in order to mobilize resources and assistance for communities impacted by the fires. [O]ur respect and admiration for Superintendent Herrington grew day-by-day as he unfailingly engaged with us, often on short notice, to support aid for schools and families.... California children and families are extremely fortunate to have Superintendent Herrington serving them.” ¶

SonomaFamilyLife 9

2. Be careful not to cross-contaminate. Cross contamination occurs when a small piece of a food allergen accidentally gets into another food. Wash hands frequently, keep spoons for each dish separate, and be aware of cross-contamination for more than just serving utensils. If you chop

The Healthy Holiday Host 10 Hints for Planning Meals for Special Diets

By Janeen Lewis

W

hen most people think of the holidays, visions of festive foods dance in their heads. And if you’re hosting this holiday, you undoubtedly want to create a special dinner for family and friends. The only problem is that you’re likely to have at least one guest with a special diet. Some people have food allergies while others have changed their diets to combat heart disease, diabetes, or cancer, and still others are trying special diets like plant-based and Paleo. If you hope to be the host with the most, creating a meal to satisfy everyone can be stressful.

Never fear! The following tips have you covered. They include practical, easy ways to make any holiday dinner a hit.

1. Inquire when you invite.

If you send out invitations, make 10 SonomaFamilyLife

a note with the RSVP that asks guests to write down any allergies, restrictions, or needs. You might even make a spreadsheet or simple table of guests to help with organization.

Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to bring a dish to share. an ingredient that is an allergen on your cutting board, blend it together in a mixing bowl, or bake it on a cookie sheet, be sure to wash these items also, or you are at risk of cross-contaminating food.

3. Keep wrappers from pre-packaged foods. There are a plethora of options for holiday dishes in the freezer and specialty aisles of the grocery store. Save time and sanity by using them, but keep the packaging on hand so that you can tell guests confidently what the ingredients are.

4. Use simple substitutes. The key to serving a delectable meal and keeping everyone safe is swapping ingredients. For example, one easy substitute is to use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. This keeps the food friendly for vegans.

Or you can substitute olive oil for butter for someone who is allergic to dairy. Find recipes that sweeten desserts with honey, agave nectar, syrups, molasses, applesauce, dates, or bananas. Risotto or quinoa can be substituted for, or served in addition to, stuffing so you can offer a gluten-free

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

EXCLUSIVE

option. And sometimes less is more. If you completely delete a troublesome ingredient, and you can’t tell a distinct difference, go for that option.

5. Make two versions of a favorite dish. It’s easy to make some dishes two ways. You can make stuffing and rolls with and without gluten. You can make a broccoli casserole or green bean casserole with and without cheese.

6. Create some “everybody” dishes. It’s a good idea to create plenty of sides that are friendly for everybody, including surprise guests. Your nephew may call the day before and ask if he can bring his new girlfriend, and she’s a vegetarian.

Veggies without butter, soups

There are a plethora of options for holiday dishes in the freezer and specialty aisles of the grocery store. without dairy or meat, or fruit salads sweetened with natural alternatives are a great way to fill up the table and give everyone a chance to share the same food fare.

7. Label dishes with place cards. When friends and family that haven’t seen one another for months or years get together, there’s so much laughter and talk, it’s easy to forget to discuss dietary restrictions. Food labels not only keep your guests informed about the food, they add an attractive touch to your table setting.

Make food labels to go with each dish ahead of time. Or make a label station with decorative markers close www.sonomafamilylife.com

to the food for guests to label food, especially those that contain the most common allergens: dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans.

8. Serve food buffet style.

Serving food buffet style with labels is a good way to let diners know what they can and can’t eat. Be careful to keep spoons with the right dishes, or better yet, label serving utensils with the food name each one goes with. Put a small plate or spoon rest in front of each dish so that juices and food bits are contained.

9. Don’t try to do it all. Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to bring a dish to share. Maybe you prepare the meat and bread, and have everyone else bring a side. It can add to the fun of eating a meal together if your guests can expand their culinary tastes and bring different styles of cooking to the celebration.

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867 Third St., Santa Rosa (707)527-7900 www.childrenlovemusic.com

10. Be open to new traditions.

Holiday meals are steeped in tradition and when diets change, it’s hard to let go of familiar dishes. But you never know, you might actually like Tofurky, or risotto instead of stuffing, or a lighter, healthier version of sweet potato soufflé and scalloped potatoes. Don’t be afraid to embrace some new traditions as you cook for friends and family, and you will keep your holiday table open and warm. ¶ Janeen Lewis is a teacher, writer, and mom who has been published in several parenting magazines across the country and more than a dozen Chicken Soup for the Soul anthologies.

November 2018

SonomaFamilyLife 11

and streamline what’s on display. If you haven’t shared your kids’ recent masterpieces with far-away relatives, before you toss anything create a quick slideshow or photo collage and then e-mail it to extended family.

The Great Family 15 Ways to Give-Back Teach Generosity

7. Knock-knock. If a neighbor has a new baby, a health issue, or is going through a tough time, see what your family can do to help. Maybe a pot of vegetable soup or some store-bought cupcakes would spread some cheer.

Perhaps your family could head over to mow the lawn, rake leaves, and clean up the yard. When in doubt, ask!

Teach your kids to be a force for good everywhere they go.

By Christina Katz

I

t’s that time of year when we focus on giving thanks for our blessings as well as on what we can give to others. Wondering how to instill the value of generosity in your kids? Here are 20 ideas.

1. The family that volunteers together… Volunteermatch.org will deliver local volunteer opportunities to your inbox. Get kids involved in choosing ways to volunteer. Why not make a day of it? It may even become a tradition.

2. Crochet for a cause. Do you like to crochet? Make hats for newborns. The Crochet Guild of America has a long list of charities looking for donations. Visit crochet. org/page/charity to learn more.

3. Purge what’s not needed.

Go through closets and drawers and donate clothing, shoes, and supplies that no longer suit your family. Deliver 12 SonomaFamilyLife

items to your favorite local resale shop for that fresh-start feeling.

4. Make someone’s day. Small acts of kindness are contagious. Pay for the ice cream cone, hot dog, or popcorn for the next person in line.

Whenever anyone does this for you, be sure to spread the news on social media. Hearing about good deeds can bring a smile to someone’s face.

5. Roll up your sleeves. Save a life by donating blood. Make this generous gesture a rite of passage for eligible teens in your family. Go out for a sweet treat afterwards to recharge.

6. Update décor. Encourage kids to sort through their rooms

8. Pitch it. If you have something bulky you no longer need, put it on the curb with a “Free” sign.

9. Kindness patrol. When your children are in a funk, redirecting their attention toward caring for others can help them snap out of it.

Challenge your kids to be on alert for ways to be helpful in the moment. If an elderly person needs a door held open or if a fussy baby needs some silly grins, teach your kids to jump in and be a force for good everywhere they go.

10. Scout for opportunities.

Focus on the positive and be wealthy forever. When out in public, teach your kids how to spot things they appreciate, such as blossoming flowers, pretty images, and soothing sounds.

11. Reach out a hand. Charge kids with the mission of doing something

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

good for someone else before they can have more screen time. The kind act can be for someone within or outside your family or even a pet. Young children don’t need to be left out. They can always draw someone a picture or help pick up a sibling’s toys.

12. Compliment crusade. Each day, invite your kids to find reasons to sincerely compliment other people.

Hair & Skin Care for the Entire Family!

Champagne Hair Lounge

7981 Old Redwood Hwy. • Cotati

Special

Cut & Color $75 Special for 1st time clients.

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

13. Bless those who ask. Instead of giving money to folks who routinely ask for it, why not create mini care packages in a bag? Prepare a blessing bag with some fresh veggies and fruit, a water bottle, some lip balm or sunscreen, and a sweet treat. If there is a chill in the air, add a scarf, hat, gloves, or socks to each bag and deliver it with eye contact and a smile.

14. Think ahead to the holidays.

Make holiday gifts from natural supplies like bath salts made with rose petals (see page 5) or lavender blossoms. Shelve the final products until the holiday season rolls around and then embellish them with seasonal wrapping and tags.

15. Clean up the environment.

Got a free afternoon and looking for something spontaneous to do?

Give everyone a bag, head out of the house, and pick up trash in the areas surrounding your home and neighborhood.

For more ways your family can give back year-round, subscribe to the Doing Good Together newsletter at doinggoodtogether.org. ¶ Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and writing coach who relishes the opportunity to give back. Find her at christinakatz.com.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

November 2018

SonomaFamilyLife 13

in tutoring varies widely, so be sure to check service providers’ reviews.

Online tutoring is another popular choice today. But bear in mind, it isn’t the right thing for every child.

Also, do your research. Many

Your best bet is to look for someone with a teaching degree.

Smart Help Find a Good, Budget-Friendly Tutor

By Kimberly Blaker

I

If your child has a learning disability, poor or declining grades, weak time management skills, or difficulty understanding his or her homework, it may be time to consider a tutor. But how do you find a good, reliable tutor you can trust? And what if hiring a tutor doesn’t fit your budget? You have options.

How to Find a Tutor Your child’s teacher and the school administrator might be able to recommend a local tutor or online resources.

Also, chances are one of your child’s friends has a tutor. So ask other parents for recommendations.

Another option is to search online.

You’ll likely find a couple of local tutoring companies. These often offer on-site tutoring, although some may offer in-home tutoring as well.

14 SonomaFamilyLife

In addition, there are many websites devoted to helping parents find tutors.

Takelessons.com provides a searchable database of tutors. Just enter the subject and your zip code to find numerous tutors in your area.

You’ll see tutors’ star ratings and their fees.

Another source is Care.com, which connects various service professionals, including tutors, with those seeking services. Experience

tutoring websites receive only fair to mediocre reviews at best. The costs for online tutoring aren’t always consistent with quality.

Free Tutoring If tutoring isn’t in your budget, you still have options.

The first place to start is with your child’s school. Although the No Child Left Behind Act is now defunct, some schools still offer one-on-one tutoring programs for eligible students. Many schools also offer after-school group tutoring where children stay late to work on their homework with a teacher available to assist. Also, some teachers offer after-school tutoring for their students.

If tutoring isn’t available at your child’s school, ask trusted family members, neighbors, and friends if they can help.

You might be surprised to discover someone you know is very enthused to help your struggling child.

Contact your local high schools and community colleges. Students majoring in certain subjects or teaching may be required to tutor. For that reason, students often offer to tutor for free.

Another option, the popular Khan Academy website offers free online

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

video tutorials for students of all levels.

Visit khanacademy.org.

What to Look for in a Tutor There are several factors to consider when looking for a tutor for your child.

Is the tutor qualified? Your best bet is to look for someone with a teaching degree since tutoring requires skills not everyone possesses. For younger students, as long as the tutor

First, a tutor should be patient, empathetic, positive, passionate, creative, and fun. has a teaching degree, specialization in the particular subject in which your child is struggling isn’t necessary.

From high school and beyond though, you should look for a tutor with expertise in the particular subjects in which your child needs help.

Does the tutor have the right personality? First, a tutor should be patient, empathetic, positive, passionate, creative, and fun. These are important characteristics to ensure your child can learn from the tutor and walk away with self-confidence.

Also, the tutor’s personality should be a good fit for your child. You want a tutor who can connect with your child.

Is the tutor flexible? Each child has her or his own learning style whether it’s visual, aural, physical, verbal, logical, or any combination of these. In addition, some kids are solitary learners whereas others enjoy

learning in groups. Look for a setting and tutor that fit your child’s style.

Does the tutor have excellent references? When using an online tutoring service, you’ll often find reviews from previous clients. Look for tutors with overall high ratings and positive comments. If you find your tutor offline or don’t see a significant number of reviews, ask for several references. Bear in mind, though, the references a tutor provides might not be an entirely accurate depiction of his or her character and experience. So use due diligence for your child’s safety and to ensure you’re paying for quality service. œ Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer and the author of the kid’s STEM book Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery?, available on Amazon.

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November 2018

SonomaFamilyLife 15

book. He will be more apt to read the book he’s interested in rather than one you insist he read. If there is something he needs to read for school, maybe you can compromise.

It’s fun for kids to go on a “hunt” for books with a specific theme in mind.

The Wonder of Words O

7 Ways to Encourage Kids to Read

By Meagan Ruffing

ne of the best things about being a mom is sitting next to my children and reading with them. Intentionally opening a book every day—even if just to read a few pages—is a great habit to pick up. Over the past ten years, I have found these seven tips fuel our reading time as a family.

1

Grab books celebrating different seasons.

November is National Literacy Month and a great time to gather books about Thanksgiving, volunteering, family time, and even turkeys! It’s fun for kids to go on a “hunt” for books with a specific

16 SonomaFamilyLife

theme in mind. Don’t have any?

No worries. Head to a library. It’s a never-ending free-for-all for a child’s imagination.

2

Let your kids pick out books they want to read. If your son likes Pokémon, let him get a Pokémon

Tell him he can read ten minutes in his Pokémon book and then ten minutes in his schoolbook. You may just end up learning a thing or two about what he likes while enjoying the fact that your son is becoming an avid reader.

3

Carve out time to read together as a family.

This might not be realistic every day, but aim for a few times a week. You can all read your own books or read one book together.

A book like Madeline is great for kids of all ages. It’s not too long or too short, and there are even a few French words in there that you can talk about together.

4

Have a Read-Off. There’s no better time to start a fun game of “who can read the most” than during National Literacy Month. Make sure you keep it friendly and be mindful of younger kids who might not be able to read as much or as fast as older ones. Each night, have the kids write down how many minutes they’ve read; tally up the totals at the end of the week.

Whoever reads the most amount of time receives a prize (think Dollar Store item). Have little prizes for runners-ups and be sure to praise each

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

kid for a job well done. Make your Read-Off a monthly or annual thing.

5

Pick out an armful of cheap books at a resale store. Your kids will think it’s the best day ever when you tell them there’s no limit to the number

If it’s nice outside, grab a blanket, a few stuffed animals, and a couple of great books. of books they can get. You can also save even more money if you bring old books to the store and sell them while you’re there. It’s a win-win.

Also check out library book sales for inexpensive reads.

6

Choose a special spot at home or in your backyard. One of the great things about reading is that it can pretty much be done anywhere.

Kids love to make a big deal out of the most ordinary things and reading is no different. If it’s nice outside, grab a blanket, a few stuffed animals, and a couple of great books. Make it a pseudo-picnic with little snacks and lots of reading together. Take turns reading aloud to shake things up a bit.

7

Use books to initiate difficult discussions.

Books can offer doorways into topics that are hard to navigate.

I use them to help create a safe

place for my kids to ask important questions.

Reading really is one of the best things you can do together. So many

One of the great things about reading is that it can pretty much be done anywhere. wonderful memories of funny words, mispronounced verbs, and voice inflections will have you craving more time together as a family. ¶ Meagan Ruffing is a parenting journalist and avid reader with her three kids. You can check out more of her tips on all-things-kids at meaganruffing.com.

One-to-one instruction IT’S A SLUMBER PARTY AT THE Y Grab your sleeping bags and get ready for a slumber party at the Y. Every 3rd Friday of the month, kids are invited to sleep over at the Y and participate in a FUN filled evening of swimming, games, movies, crafts and more! Snacks and breakfast are served!

DATES/THEMES:

TIMES:

Nov. 16th - Blast from the Past Dec. 21st - Holiday Hoopla Jan. 18th - Down on the Farm Feb. 15th - Space is the Place Mar. 15th - Search for Gold!

Apr. 19th - Spring Fling May 17th - Super Heroes

7PM Friday to 9AM Saturday

FEES:

Facility Member $25 Program Member $30 Non-Members $40

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 707-544-1829 Sonoma County Family Y  1111 College Avenue  Santa Rosa 707-545-9622  www.scfymca.org The Y is a non-profit community based organization.

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SonomaFamilyLife 17

How can you create a more calming homework atmosphere that will enhance your child’s ability to concentrate and get the job done quickly—without the draining drama?

Work in short bursts. Kids get overwhelmed with long worksheets and multiple assignments. Break homework into timed chunks. After a busy day at school, parents can typically expect their youngsters to

Homework Hero

Tips for Conquering Frustration & Distraction

By Christa Melnyk Hines

B

y the time Meira Mednick’s daughter was in third grade, homework time had morphed into lengthy, embattled evenings fraught with angry tears as frustrated daughter and frazzled mom squared off.

“My daughter began showing signs of difficulty in focusing on homework in kindergarten. By second grade we were drowning,” Mednick says.

Mednick tried tactics like feeding her first grader an early dinner as soon as she got home from school and giving her time to relax before starting homework. Instead, “We ended up spending the next two years in a tug 18 SonomaFamilyLife

of war of time, and many tears were shed,” she says.

Many parents can relate and dread the contentious homework hour, which can plunder an otherwise peaceful evening. For kiddos, who struggle to tune out distractions and concentrate on the task at hand, sitting down to do homework doesn’t rank high on their list of priorities.

Yoga stretches and breathing exercises can calm and re-energize a tired body. focus on a task for one minute for each year of their age. That means a six-year-old should be given a two- or three-minute break every six minutes.

“Expecting 30 minutes of homework out of a first grader isn’t realistic without breaks,” says Rachel Rudman, a pediatric occupational therapist.

The timed approach made a big difference for Mednick’s daughter.

“Previously she would be discouraged even before picking up a pencil. By having a timed environment, she knew that she could tackle one interval at a time,” says Mednick, whose daughter is now an eighth-grade honors student.

Create smart brain breaks.

During the timed breaks engage your child in short activities that help reorganize and refocus the brain, like jumping jacks, playing with Legos or Play-Doh, or snacking on crunchy carrots, pretzel rods, or something chewy like fruit leather.

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Blowing up a balloon can also help release frustration. “Blowing forces the child to take deep breaths, which increases relaxation and focus,” Rudman says.

“Balancing poses require a level of concentration...[making them] a great way to strengthen those ‘focus muscles’ and create a body and mind that are strong and relaxed,” says Mariam

Break homework into timed chunks.

Gates, the author of the children’s book Good Night Yoga: A Pose-by-Pose Bedtime Story (Sounds True, 2015).

Integrate natural elements.

Researchers have found that including ornamental plants in a learning area can enhance a child’s ability to concentrate and learn.

“And weirdly, the more involved the child is in the plant’s life or maintenance, the more learning goes on,” says Magalie Rene, a classroom design consultant who works with parents and schools to create study spaces that foster learning.

Place a plant in your home’s study area and have your child water it as www.sonomafamilylife.com

Blowing up a balloon can also help release frustration.

TS

Strike a pose. Yoga stretches and breathing exercises can calm and re-energize a tired body. Balancing poses like crow pose (bakasana) and airplane pose (dekasana) or a full-body twist (search YouTube for “Seated Yoga Twists for Kids”) combine breathing and concentrated stretching movements.

Chew gum. Although the “no gum allowed” rule was grilled into our psyches when we were students, more

FLY ©P N

Avoid electronics, which can be hard to pull away a child from.

a transition cue before beginning homework, Rene suggests.

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schools now allow kids to chew gum during state assessments. The chewing movement has an organizing effect on the brain and can help kids focus.

Energize with aromatherapy.

Scent can have a powerful effect on our emotional well-being. Fill a spray bottle with water and two or three drops of peppermint, rosemary, or citrus essential oil. Spray the scent around the study area to enhance concentration, focus, and creativity.

Get organized. Make a homework box either out of a large shoebox or plastic container. Have your child decorate it and use it to store homework supplies, such as pens, pencils, crayons, markers, scissors, paper, a glue stick, and anything else he or she might need. “Having everything together creates an atmosphere of organization and success,” Rudman says.

If your youngster continues to struggle with focus and concentration, consult with your family’s pediatrician or a child psychologist. ¶ As the mom of two energetic school-age boys, freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines knows all too well the stress homework time can create in a family. Her latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

November 2018

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He says that meditation is about observing, rather than “shutting down” the mind, about witnessing rather than responding. “The mind is like the weather,” says Ekan. “It changes every day. As we get better at simply observing our thoughts, we are less likely to become entangled in them.”

Rather than reflecting on the past or worrying about the future, meditation

Stress Less Mindfulness Practices Help You Refocus, Renew, and Relax

encourages us to be fully aware and present in the moment, he explains.

By Ashley Talmadge

S

tressed out? You’re not the only one. According to recent statistics, more than a third of adults reported an increase in stress over the past year, and more than three-quarters acknowledged at least one stress-related symptom. Pressure on the job, financial difficulty, caregiving responsibilities, even political events—separately or in combination, these stressors can lead to tension in our daily routines. But for those seeking calm in the storm, there are many ways to refocus, become more mindful, and put life’s challenges into perspective.

Meditation Recent research indicates meditation confers benefits to both body and spirit, including decreased stress and anxiety, strengthened immune system, and improved memory and focus. Ayurvedic health educator Sherry Morgado acknowledges that newcomers to the practice are often 20 SonomaFamilyLife

“Finding a mental health professional…can be a game changer in how you approach life.”— Kristen Picard, MSW

intimidated, but assures, “You can learn the techniques the very first time you sit down. The benefits increase over time with a regular daily practice, but most people notice some degree of calmness and clearer focus from the first time they sit.”

Sri Ekan teaches meditation and has practiced the technique for 38 years.

Sonoma County libraries offer free meditation and stress reduction classes.

For a schedule, search on “meditation” at sonomacountylibcal.com.

Craniosacral Therapy Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a noninvasive hands-on form of bodywork, in which the head, neck, spine, and sacrum are gently manipulated. Practitioners trained to administer CST say the method works by relieving any restrictions of the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, thereby improving function of the central nervous system.

Sheryl Meyer has been a holistic practitioner for 28 years. She says the origin of a client’s stress will determine the course of treatment, and CST is often an effective option.

“At the beginning of a session, a client is often operating from the sympathetic nervous system, where

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

stress hormones increase anxiety and prevent healing,” says Meyer. “The goal of CST is to move the client into the parasympathetic nervous system, a rested and relaxed state in which healing can occur.”

During a CST session, the client is fully clothed and lies face up on a massage table. Meyer says the environment should invite relaxation.

“Soft music, dim lighting, and the soothing scents of aromatherapy create a calming atmosphere,” she notes. She says CST usually results in a sense of tranquility.

Recent research indicates meditation confers benefits to both body and spirit.

Mental Health Services Therapy with a licensed mental health provider can be beneficial in many cases, and may be essential when stress is severe or persistent.

Licensed psychologist Jennifer Ferrell-Hanington, Psy.D., has provided individual psychotherapy for 24 years. “Once a person feels overwhelmed and helpless, when symptoms are affecting work, daily activities, and relationships,” she says, “it may be time to seek professional help.”

“Finding a mental health professional who can be a safe space to support you through your challenges can be a game changer in how you approach life. This can be a key piece to living the life you desire, not one you feel helpless in,” says Sebastopol counselor Kristen Picard, MSW. www.sonomafamilylife.com

Ferrell-Hanington emphasizes that everyone deals with stress differently, and treatment will vary based on individual needs. However, end goals usually “consist of developing realistic interpretations and expectations of the situation, setting limits in order to regain a sense of control over outside demands, utilizing a social support system, and establishing proper lifestyle and behavior changes.”

The process of locating a provider can be intimidating, but it’s important to find a good fit. Referrals can be made by a trusted physician, family friend, or even anonymously through a local agency. See recamft.org for a directory of therapists in Sonoma County. “It can be helpful to speak directly to the psychologist or counselor prior to setting an appointment,” says Ferrell-Hanington. She suggests that potential clients “ask about the provider’s education, experience, expertise, and treatment approach.”

Get Free Help Locals interested in relieving stress can attend the Sonoma County Healers Network Healing Sanctuary, held the second Sunday of every month, noon–6 p.m. (last guests received at 4 p.m.) at the Arlene Francis Center in Santa Rosa. At the event—which Dana Valley, a quality director at a local community clinic, founded during last year’s wildfires—local practitioners offer a range of free services, from massage and other bodywork to meditation, hypnotherapy, and sound therapy. See facebook.com/healersnetwork/?ref=br_ rs for details. ¶ Ashley Talmadge is a nationally published freelance writer and mother of two boys.

November 2018

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SonomaFamilyLife 21

wasn’t always ours, and make her think of all of the hard times she had before us. She often tells us that she wishes we were her first parents, in addition to her last.

9 Birthdays in 1 Week Helping an Adopted Daughter Reclaim Her Past and Heal Her Present

By Rachael Moshman

M

y daughter was nine years old when my husband and I adopted her. She was abused and neglected during her first four years, and then bounced around foster care for the next five. She’d lived in 12 homes before ours.

Amazingly, she was still willing to give trusting and loving us a shot.

It was—and still is—hard work for all three of us, but she’s attached. We’re a family. We love each other. We’re her parents, and she’s our baby.

Turning 13 was a really rough transition for her because she realized she doesn’t seek the same 22 SonomaFamilyLife

level of independence as her peers.

She still wants to be a little girl. She finally has a mommy and daddy who truly love her, take care of her, and keep her safe, and she isn’t ready for this chapter of her life to close. She missed out on too much.

Birthdays are especially challenging for her. They remind her that she

One morning the summer before she started middle school she began sobbing and saying that she wished she were only six, and an idea popped into my head. We missed out on her first nine birthdays. Her tenth birthday was the first one that we were part of, and it was the first birthday party she’d ever had.

I decided to redo all of the others.

I had her first birthday party all set up when I picked her up from camp that afternoon. I decorated with free printables I found online.

Some of the celebrations were hard and filled with tears.

I gave her a birthday crown to wear.

We sang “Happy Birthday” and ate mini-cupcakes. We talked about the milestones children usually hit at that age and what her first birthday would have been like if she had been with us then. We played “Ring Around the Rosie.” We even gave her gifts to unwrap! (They were possessions she already owned: a playground ball and a book.)

We continued the birthdays over the week, celebrating as a family at dinnertime. Each party had a theme, from Dora the Explorer to cowgirls to high tea.

As I prepared for each party, I wrote my daughter a letter describing how

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

GIVE US A SHOUT!

we would have celebrated with her if she’d been with us, and what I thought she would have been like.

In each letter I included photos of children of that age who looked a little like her; my daughter has very few photos of herself from before she joined our family.

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 who 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

Some of the celebrations were hard and filled with tears. During her fifth birthday redo party, she shared

Turning 13 was a really rough transition for her because she realized she doesn’t seek the same level of independence as her peers. that she was sad because it was the first birthday she spent in foster care. She knew that must have been a really difficult one for her.

Her ninth birthday redo was especially heavy because she was in the midst of a traumatic situation that year.

I tell her all of the time that the only way to process the hard stuff is to deal with it. These birthday redo celebrations have helped her with that.

My daughter now has a file folder in her brain of good memories from these family parties—plus dozens of photos! I’m confident the positive memories will outweigh the negative over time. ¶ Rachael Moshman is a mother, freelance writer, educator, and family advocate. Find her on Twitter @rachaelmoshman.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

November 2018

SonomaFamilyLife 23

November Calendar of Events

Chuggin’ into Town

S

ome people’s Santas fly, but Petaluma’s Santa floats. See Father Christmas chug into town during Santa’s Riverboat Arrival. On November 24 arrive at 11:30 a.m. at the River Plaza Shopping Center in Petaluma.

Listen to the Pacific Empire Chorus sing and get a candy cane from a Petaluma school of ballet dancer decked out in a Nutcracker costume.

(Local merchants will be offering goodie bags, too.) Then at noon welcome the Man in Red as he arrives on a tugboat. You and the kids can accompany him to his on-site “workshop” for photos, which will run until 1 or 1:30 p.m.

For more info about this free event, see visitpetaluma.com. ¶

Thursday 1

FREE Family Yoga. For ages

3–6. Class combines animated yoga poses, games, story telling & relaxation. Grandparents/ caregivers welcome. 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Healdsburg Regional Library. 139 Piper St., Healdsburg. Registration required. sonomacounty.libcal.com/ event/4399456.

Friday 2

Disney’s 101 Dalmatians. Children’s

theater. $5. Nov 2 & 9: 7 p.m. Nov. 3 & 10: 1 & 3:30 p.m. Nov. 4 & 11: 3 p.m. Steele Lane Community Center. 415 Steele Ln., Santa Rosa. atheaterforchildren.com.

FREE Day of the Dead at the Park.

Day of the Dead–themed art project.

Supplies provided. Bring a potluck dish to share. Bilingual (Spanish/ English) program. 5:30–7:30 p.m. Andy’s Unity Park. 3399 Moorland Ave., Santa Rosa. parks. sonomacounty.ca.gov.

Saturday 3 Sonoma Extra Virgin Festival.

Annual Blessing of the Olives, olive-oil 24 SonomaFamilyLife

tasting, cooking demos, live music & food & wine. $20. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. B. R. Cohn Winery. 15000 Sonoma Hwy., Glen Ellen. brcohn.com.

Bark After Dark. Dinner & auction. $30–$50. Proceeds support the programs of the Animal Shelter League. 6:30–10 p.m. Rohnert Park Community Center. 5401 Synder Ave., Rohnert Park. rpanimalshelter.org.

FREE Fundemonium Fall Train Show. Nov. 3 & 4: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Fundemonium. 579 Rohnert Park Expy. W., Rohnert Park. 800-4060. fundemoniumtoys.com.

Harvest Halloween Carnival. Wear your costume. Carnival games, face painting, cookie decorating, fortune teller, cake walk, book court, inflatables, Mexican food & the 5th grade-hosted haunted house. Noon–3 p.m. Apple Blossom Elementary School. 700 Watertrough Rd., Sebastopol. sebastopol.org.

Snoopy’s Skate Party. Live DJ, big

screen, games, prizes, on-ice lounge & food. Ages 12–15. $10. $7 dinner optional. 7:30–9 p.m. Snoopy’s Home Ice. 1667 W. Steele Ln., Santa Rosa.

546-7147. snoopyshomeice.com.

FREE Garden Stewards. Get your hands dirty at volunteer workdays.

First Saturdays focus on land stewardship & third Saturdays on biodynamic gardening. Nov. 3 & 17: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Maddux Ranch Regional Park. 4655 Lavell Rd., Santa Rosa. parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov.

Sunday 4 Santa Rosa Doll & Toy Show.

Antique, vintage, modern & miniature dolls, teddies & toys. $6. Age 12 & under: free when accompanied by adult. Proceeds help the Living Room, a women’s & children’s day shelter. 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Santa Rosa Veterans Hall. 1351 Maple Ave., Santa Rosa. santarosadollshow.blogspot.com.

FREE Raise the Roof! West County

Housing Fair & Expo. Learn about existing & new housing policies. Free childcare & refreshments available.

1:30–5 p.m. Sebastopol Community Cultural Center. 390 Morris St., Sebastopol. ci.sebastopol.ca.us.

FREE Celebrating our Resilience.

Featuring Wonder Bread. All proceeds from beverages & raffles benefit Sonoma County charities. Noon–3

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

p.m. Montgomery Village. 911 Village Ct., Santa Rosa.mvshops.com.

Mantra Mamas. Women & moms

learn to meditate & chant while children are immersed in the sound of Sacred Mantras. $15. On family days: $12, $20 for family. No one turned away for lack of funds.

Trades available. Sundays. 10–11:30 a.m. Nov. 18: also open to dads & men. No class Nov. 25. Yoga Studio Ganesha. 138 Weeks Way, Sebastopol. mantramamas.org.

Día de los Muertos Story Time.

Ginger Daley will read from several children’s books on Day of the Dead & will lead a sing-along. Included with museum admission ($7–$10, ages 12 & under: free). 2–2:30 p.m. Museums of Sonoma County. 425 7th St., Santa Rosa. 579-1500. museumsc.org.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Monday 5

Friday 9

Museum Mondays for Little Ones.

8th Annual Champions for Children.

Stories, movement games, crafts & other activities. Ages 1–5. $5 per child/free for up to 2 adults before 11 a.m. Museum’s regular admission applies after 11 a.m. Charles M. Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. schulzmuseum.org.

Awards luncheon & fundraiser for 4Cs Sonoma County, a nonprofit dedicated to creating accessible, local childcare. $50. Registration: 11 a.m. Awards & lunch: 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Santa Rosa Golf & Country Club. 333 Country Club Dr., Santa Rosa. facebook.com/ sonoma4cs.

Thursday 8 Campaign Kick-off Party for Boys & Girls Clubs in Cloverdale. 6–8 p.m.

686 S. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. facebook.com/BGCCSC. Coffee Play Date/Santa Rosa Mothers’ Club Board Meeting. Find

out more about what the club does or just visit & play. 9:30–11:30 a.m.

Franklin Park. 2095 Franklin Ave., Santa Rosa. santarosamothersclub.org.

November 2018

Saturday 10 8th Annual Dancing with the Stars at the Raven. Local celebrity “stars”

& dance pros compete for audience votes. Preview performance on Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m.: $20, $10 for under 18.

Nov. 10: $35–$45. 7:30 p.m. Raven Performing Arts Theater. 115 North St., Healdsburg. raventheater.org.

SonomaFamilyLife 25

Casino Night in the Wild West.

Rising Up: Art & Resilience. Local

Brick Palooza. A huge exhibition of

Casino games, $100 in chips, cowboy music, live & silent auctions, dinner & dancing. $150 per person. Benefits Cloverdale Arts Alliance Gallery.

5:30–11 p.m. Citrus Fairgrounds.

1 Citrus Fair Dr., Cloverdale. cloverdaleartsalliance.org.

artists, all of whom lost their homes in the fires, discuss why they continue to make art in the face of disaster. Free with museum admission. $7–$10. Family: $15.

Ages 12 & under: free. 3 p.m.

Sonoma Valley Museum of Art. 551 Broadway, Sonoma. svma.org.

Lego art, play area & hands-on activity booths. $10–$20. Ages 4 & under: free.

9 a.m.–5 p.m. Santa Rosa Veterans Building. 1351 Maple Ave., Santa Rosa. thebrickhutt.com.

Raptor Madness. Young scientists

look for raptors & dissect pellets coughed-up by local species. Flat, 2-mile hike. All ages. Event: free.

Parking: $7. 9 a.m.–noon. Tolay Lake Regional Park. 5869 Cannon Ln., Petaluma. parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov.

Purple Pig Fundraiser & Membership Drive. Pig on

Spit, beans, salad, bread, dessert. Piggy Bank Judging. Wear purple. 6–9 p.m.

Elks Lodge. 2105 S. McDowell Blvd. #A, Petaluma. eventbrite.com.

Sunday 11 FREE Sonoma County Healers Network Healing Sanctuary. Get

free sessions from various holistic practitioners. Offerings vary but may include massage, hypnotherapy, sound therapy, meditation, Reiki & Tarot readings. Noon–6 p.m. (last guest entry at 4 p.m.) Second Sunday of the month. Arlene Francis Center. 99 6th St., Santa Rosa. facebook.com/ healersnetwork.

FREE Veteran’s Day Parade & Flyover. Music: noon. Parade: 1 p.m.

Parade begins & ends at Walnut Park, Petaluma. See petalumaveterans parade.com for parade route.

DOAO Stories in Sound. Debut

Youth Orchestra & Aspirante Youth Orchestra. $5–$15. 3 p.m. Sonoma Country Day School. Jackson Theater.

4400 Day School Pl., Santa Rosa. srsymphony.org.

Wednesday 14 FREE Holidays along the Farm Trails. Most stops are free. No pets.

Educating the Whole Child

PARK SIDE (K-4) Rigorous Academics Social Skills and Collaboration Global Stewardship

BROOK HAVEN (5-8)

Academic Excellence Art, Engineering, Wood Working, Makerspace Music and more!

Comprehensive Athletics Program

CASTLE programs (K-8) Convenient Safe Nurturing

TAKE A TOUR OR ENROLL NOW! sebastopolschools.org (707) 829-4570 26 SonomaFamilyLife

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Begins Nov. 14. Runs weekends thru Jan. 1, 2019. Various locations in Petaluma. More info at farmtrails.org.

Thursday 15

Calmus Vocal Ensemble. German vocal group featuring folk songs from Brazil, Denmark, Ecuador, England, Iceland, Ireland, Russia, Ukraine & more. $25–$45. 7:30 p.m. Green Music Center. 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. 866-955-6040. gmc.sonoma.edu.

Friday 16

FREE Gifts ’n Tyme Holiday Craft Fair. Highlighting 85 local & regional

artists. Nov. 16 & 17: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Nov. 18: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Napa Valley Expo. 575 Third St., Napa. napavalleyexpo.com.

Cirque Du 6th Street. A traveling

troupe of street/circus entertainers perform fairy tales & fables. $10–$15.

Nov. 16: 7 p.m. Nov. 17: 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Nov. 18: 2 p.m. 6th Street Playhouse. 52 W. 6th St., Santa Rosa.

6thstreetplayhouse.com.

Shrek the Musical. Ages 6 & up:

Youth Overnight at the Y. Kids swim,

play games & sleep over. Breakfast served. 1st–6th graders. $25–$40. Nov. 17: 7 p.m.–Nov 18: 9 a.m. YMCA. 1111 College Ave., Santa Rosa. 545-9622. scfymca.org.

$12–$22. Nov. 16–17, 23–24 & 29–30 & Dec. 1: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17–18 & 24–25 & Dec. 1–2: 1:30 p.m. Run thru Dec. 2. Maria Carrillo High School Auditorium. 6975 Montecito Blvd., Santa Rosa. 527-4307. theatrearts. santarosa.edu.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Saturday 17

Smart Cycling A. Slides, illustrations,

street diagrams & video clips communicate a general overview of cycling in Sonoma County. A bicycle is not required, but bring helmets to make sure they are fitted correctly. $10–$20. 9–11:30 a.m. Hosted by the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition.

750 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. bikesonoma.org.

FREE First Annual Community Health Fair. Health screenings, group

exercises, nutritious cooking, flu shots, acupuncture, community resources & more. 8:30–11:30 a.m. YMCA. 1111 College Ave., Santa Rosa. 545-9622. scfymca.org.

Year of the Dog & Thanksgiving Feast with Snoopy. Help prepare a

re-creation of Snoopy’s Thanksgiving

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SonomaFamilyLife 27

meal of toast, popcorn & jelly beans.

Hands-on crafts & other activities. $5–$12. Ages 3 & under: free. 1–4 p.m.

Charles M. Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. 579-4452. schulzmuseum.org.

Sonoma County Roller Derby. Live

DJ, announcers & half-time show. $5–$15. Parking: $9. 4 p.m. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. sonomacounty rollerderby.org. sonomacountyfair.com.

Be a Neighbor

E

veryone from the middle-aged to millennials probably spent some of their childhood watching the late Fred Rogers communicate his message of empathy and acceptance in Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The recently released documentary Won’t You Be My Neighbor? offers a glimpse into the life and heart of the iconic children’s television star. And now you can see it for free at the Healdsburg Library in Healdsburg on November 14 at 11 a.m. (Our editor says to make sure to bring a tissue.) To watch a trailer, go to focusfeatures.com/wont-you-be-my-neighbor. ¶

Disney Junior Dance Party. $39 & $59. Lap passes for ages 2 & under available day of show: $5. 4:30 p.m.

Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. 546-3600. lutherburbankcenter.org.

FREE Winterblast. Musicians, entertainers, parade of decorated sofas & art. 5–9:30 p.m. South A St., Santa Rosa. sofasantarosa.com.

sonoma

Holiday Open House December 1st & 2nd 11am - 3pm

Santa, Sips, Samples and more!

Celebrating 16 years of Santa visits!

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Get your holiday shopping and photos with Santa done in one stop! (pets welcome) Sample our exclusive Estate wines & gourmet food items, and enjoy music both days!

Bring your own photo-taking device & letters for Santa!

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28 SonomaFamilyLife

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Wine Country Winter Wonderland.

Healdsburg Turkey Trot. 5K

Lighting of historic Sonoma Plaza. 8 acres of holiday lights. Transcendence Theatre Company will perform a musical holiday tribute. Local food, wine & more. 5–8 p.m. Sonoma Plaza.

Sonoma. sonomavalley.com.

run/walk thru downtown Healdsburg. $25–$50. Ages 5 & under: free. Benefits the Drew Esquivel Scholarship. Race starts 8 a.m. sharp. Healdsburg Running Company. 333 Center St., Healdsburg.

Register online for early-bird rates: scenaperformance.com.

FREE Christmas Craft Fair. 10

a.m.–3 p.m. Petaluma United Methodist Church. 410 D St., Petaluma. petalumaumc.org.

Sunday 18 FREE Giving Thanks at the Homestead. Tours of working

homestead. 2–4 p.m. Artful Arrangements. 205 Orchard Ln., Penngrove. artfularrangements.org.

FREE Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Children 12 & under can visit Santa & make an ornament to hang on the tree.

4–6 p.m. Village Premium Outlets.

2200 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma. visitpetaluma.com.

Wednesday 21 FREE The Great Thanksgiving Banquet. Outreach to homeless

& low-income families. Free hot turkey dinner, haircuts, warm coats & medical or dental evaluations.

Crafts, bouncy house & face-painting.

Sponsored by the Redwood Gospel Mission. 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. srmission.org.

Thursday 22

FREE Thanksgiving Dinner. Seating is first come, first served. Dinner will be served until the food runs out. 3–5 p.m. Dessert donations welcome. Sonoma Veterans Memorial Hall. 126 1st St., Sonoma. sonomacommunitycenter.org.

Friday 23 FREE Holiday Arts & Crafts Faire.

Thru Nov. 24. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Rohnert Park Community Services.

5401 Synder Ln., Rohnert Park. facebook.com/rpcommunityservices.

The Tailor of Gloucester. Based

on the story by Beatrix Potter. $18–$36.

Nov. 23, 24 & 30: 7 p.m. Nov. 25: 1 p.m. Runs thru Dec. 16. Spreckels Performing Arts Center. 5409

Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park. 588-3400.

See spreckelsonline.com for full schedule.

Family Fun Weekend. Join cartoonist & storyteller Joe Wos for live performances & cartoon workshops throughout the day. $5–$12. Ages 3 & under: free. Nov. 23 & 24: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Charles M. Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. 579-4452. schulzmuseum.org.

Annie. $22–$35.

Thursdays– Saturdays: 7:30 p.m. Sundays: 2 p.m. Runs thru Dec. 16. 6th Street Playhouse. 52 W. 6th St., Santa Rosa.

523-4185. 6thstreetplayhouse.com.

Cirque de Bohème. Yesterday:

Circus Holiday Spectacle. $27–$55.

Nov. 23–24: 1 p.m., 3 p.m. & 5 p.m. Nov. 25: 1. p.m. & 3 p.m.

3 NEW THINGS

AT SANTA ROSA CITY SCHOOLS 1 2

New district website www.srcschools.org

New district app – Look for SRCSchools in the Apple App store and Google Play store! Parents can find emergency alerts, news, grades, school contact info, and more.

3

New digital flyers – No more messy backpacks and missing out! Peachjar digital flyers are posted on our website and sent right to parents’ email inboxes.

www.srcschools.org www.sonomafamilylife.com

November 2018

SonomaFamilyLife 29

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

Sonoma Family Life.com

Runs thru Dec. 16. CornerStone Sonoma. 23570 Hwy. 121, Sonoma. cirquedeboheme2018. brownpapertickets.com.

A Magical Cirque Christmas.

World-class talent performing cirque acts set to favorite Christmas classics.

For all ages. $35, $49 & $129. 8–10:30 p.m. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa.

546-3600. lutherburbankcenter.org.

Saturday 24

Thursday 29

FREE Fiddler on the Roof Jr. Thru Nov. 30. 7 p.m. Windsor Middle School. 9500 Brooks Rd. S., Windsor.

838-3341. windsorperformingarts.net/ schedule-and-tickets.

Friday 30

Festival of Trees. Bid on trees decorated by local businesses. Live holiday music, raffle, sweet shop & photos with Santa. Supports

FREE Santa & Mrs. Claus. The Christmas couple will be in their photo studio every weekend thru Dec. 16. Saturdays & Sundays. 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Montgomery Village. 911 Village Ct., Santa Rosa. mvshops.com.

global & local charities. Nov. 30: 6–9 p.m. Dec. 1: 3–9 p.m. Hotel Petaluma. 205 Kentucky St., Petaluma. thefabulouswomen.com.

Transcendence’s Broadway Holiday Spectacular. Song & dance packed

with showstoppers, holiday favorites & modern twists. $39–$139. Nov. 30: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1: 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2: 2 p.m. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa.

546-3600. lutherburbankcenter.org.

THE 44TH ANNUAL

FREE Santa’s River Boat Arrival. Live

entertainment with Pacific Empire Chorus & photos with Santa. 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. River Plaza Shopping Center. 72 E. Washington St., Petaluma. petalumadowntown.com.

FREE Dickens’ Faire & Christmas Market. Arts & food booths.

Snowman Contest & Pet Parade.

Photos with Santa. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Caroling & tree lighting: 5:30 p.m. Downtown Lakeport. lakeportmainstreet.com.

Sunday 25

FREE The Holiday Stroll. Festive holiday entertainment & music.

Special holiday treats & discounts at 30+ participating stores. Montgomery Village. Hwy. 12 at Farmers Ln., Santa Rosa. mvshops.com.

Maccabee Makerspace. Kids Chanukah Workshop. 10 a.m. Chabad Jewish Center. 205 Keller St. #101, Petaluma. jewishpetaluma.com/ makerspace.

90

DECEMBER 1, 9AM-5PM DECEMBER 2, 10AM-4PM Finley Community Center, 2060 W. College Ave. A $3 admission fee gets you in all weekend! srcity.org/craftsfair

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After-School

Native Voices

S

hards of obsidian found throughout Sonoma County are an echo of the lives of the indigenous peoples who populated the Valley of the Moon way before Europeans arrived. Find out about the culture of these and other Native Americans at the following free events, which local libraries will be hosting in celebration of National Native American Heritage Month. (Find more offerings at sonomalibcal.com.)

Story Time with Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. A story revolving around the role of animals in Native American tales will be followed by a thematically linked arts and crafts activity. Listen in on November 1, 11 a.m.–noon, at the Santa Rosa Central Library, Santa Rosa.

Traditional Ecological Knowledge for Kids.

Participants will learn the art of basket weaving from a California Indian Museum and Cultural Center outreach educator. Two programs will be held on November 16. The first will be at 1:30 p.m. at Sebastopol Regional Library in Sebastopol, and the second at 4 p.m. at Windsor Regional Library in Windsor.

Racing the Rez. There will be three free screenings of this documentary about Navajo and Hopi cross-country runners: November 3 at 3 p.m. at the Healdsburg Regional Library in Healdsburg; November 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the Cloverdale Regional Library in Cloverdale; and November 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the Petaluma Regional Library in Petaluma.

Up Heartbreak Hill. This Native American coming-of-age film will be shown on November 7 at 6 p.m. at the Roseland Community Library in Santa Rosa; on November 17 at 1 p.m. at the Central Santa Rosa Library in Santa Rosa; and on November 26 at 1 p.m. at the Healdsburg Regional Library in Healdsburg. ¶

32 SonomaFamilyLife

SonomaFamilyLife.com

Racing the Rez

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The Case of the Missing Library Book 5 Steps for Saving Your Sanity

By Cheryl Maguire

I

used to consider myself an organized person who rarely lost anything, definitely never a library book. Now that I’m a mother of three kids who love books, I can no longer attest to this fact. In an attempt to reclaim some sanity, I came up with the following five-step plan to use next time a book goes missing. You, of course, could apply these principles for any lost item, but I know it’s the library book you are searching for.

The library has deadlines. The library wants money. And most importantly if you don’t return the book, they will know the truth: You were unable to keep track of a 10 x 12 picture book.

Step 1. Check the Library Shelf This may seem like wishful thinking, but on more than one occasion I returned the library book, and it was never checked in. So before you ransack your house, berating yourself with, “I could have sworn I returned that book. I must be losing my mind,” make sure it isn’t at the library.

Step 2. Last Known Location The true crime genre has inspired the next few steps. I always start with this investigative question: “Where did you last see the library 34 SonomaFamilyLife

book?” Granted, the kids usually never remember, which requires you to answer the question, but it’s important to figure out since it is almost always there, somewhere, hiding.

Step 3. Use a Flashlight Flashlights have helped me find gift cards, earrings, DS games (obviously designed by a childless person who

You start to panic a little about having to admit to the librarian “the truth,” and then you realize— maybe you haven’t searched everywhere. never searched for a pin-size one), and library books. Even in a well lit room, the flashlight reflects off the item in such a way as to help you see it. And, of course, it helps you to look into the dark places of that notorious book swallower—the couch.

Step 4. Look Again Do you remember the last time you saw an optical illusion? You tried to

see the face, but couldn’t, even though it was right there in front of you. The same rule applies here: You didn’t see the book in one location, so look again.

Trust me it is there (most of the time unless you skipped step 1 and the book is on the library shelf).

Step 5. Least Likely Place You start to panic a little about having to admit to the librarian “the truth,” and then you realize—maybe you haven’t searched everywhere. Now it is time to check the least likely place.

I am referring to under the mattress, inside another book, or at the bottom of the toy box (all places I have found lost library books).

Hopefully these steps will help you feel less frustrated, more in control, and find that pesky library book so the truth can remain where it belongs, concealed.

Cheryl Maguire’s writing has been published in Parents Magazine, Upworthy, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings, and Twins Magazine. You can find her on Twitter @ CherylMaguire05.

November 2018 www.sonomafamilylife.com

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Santa and Mrs. Claus

Beginning Saturday, November 24, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in their Photo Studio in Village Terrace every weekend from 11am to 3pm.

All proceeds benefit local non-profit organizations.

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The Holiday Stroll

Sunday, November 25 Festive holiday entertainment that includes music, merriment and more!

Plus special holiday treats and discounts at over 30 participating stores.

It’s sure to put you in a holiday mood. Visit www.mvshops.com for event details.

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Chanukah Festival

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Sunday, December 2 • 4 pm in Village Court The Chabad Jewish Center invites you to Celebrate Chanukah.

Join us for a Menorah Lighting Celebration.

Hot Latkes, Live Music, Dreidels, Gelt, Prizes and More.

For information, call 707.577.0277.

Light Up A Life

Thursday, December 6 • 5pm to 6:30pm Please join us at Santa’s Village in Village Terrace for the Heartland Hospice Tree Lighting Ceremony and help to light up lives, cherish memories and celebrate our community.

The Gift of Endless Choices

Montgomery Village Gift Certificates are redeemable at all stores and restaurants in the Village. Plus if you purchase $100 or more in Gift Certificates at the Village’s Management Office you will receive a See’s Candies Certificate (good for 1 pound of See’s Candies, while supplies last). For details or to pre-order, call 707.545.3844.

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