Sonoma Family Life August 2021

sonoma

FREE!

August 2021

Classes Begin!

Super’s letter

Back-toSchool Virtual Fair

Cyber Security Expert’s advice

Study Secrets 4 tips for teens

VIRTUAL

BACK TO SCHOOL

FAIR

Learn about top private & charter elementary schools, tutoring centers & after-school activities— all from the comfort of your home!

CLICK HERE

RECREATION & PARKS

WWW.SONOMAFAMILYLIFE.COM

Want to exhibit? Contact Patty for more info: patty@family-life.us • 205-1539

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 3

August 2021

Every Issue

12 Sonoma County Office of Education prepares for in-person classes.

14 Your First Day of School A mom’s letter to her child.

16 Study Secrets Tips for helping kids do their homework.

10 4 SonomaFamilyLife

Dear Reader

8

Cooking with Kids Easy Salmon

10 Bits and Pieces Friday Night Funk and Blues Mexican Rhythms

Features 12 Masked & Ready to Learn

6

A Comedy of Clothes

18 School Calendars The dates you need— all in one place!

22 Awesome Extras Critical questions to ask after-school program staff.

24 Cyber Security Protect your family from online scams.

26 Lactation Low-Down

18

Schulz Museum Celebrates 19th Year Free Flicks Wine, Walk, and Song

28 Calendar of Events Drink Cider Under Apple Trees

32 Humor Break Don’t Lick the Outlet

Having trouble nursing?

There’s help.

8 August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Dear Reader

T

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

he 2021–2022 school year is right around the corner.

And this issue is packed with information to help you with all your back-to-school needs.

First things first: Plan your year with the help of our School Calendars (page 18), a compilation of school holidays listed in one convenient place.

Then get down to your core concerns. Perhaps you are wondering how to help your children study, or how to choose the best after-school activities.

“Study Secrets” (page 16) and

“Awesome Extras” (page 22) aim to address both those issues.

Or maybe your heart is filled with emotions you can’t quite name.

Putting your child on a school bus can bring up a lot of feelings.

Jessica Guerrieri tries to put it all into words in “Your First Day of School” (page 14).

Perhaps none of this applies to you yet because you’re still looking for a school. If so, check out our Virtual Back-to-School Fair at sonomafamilylife.com and find information on a plethora of great local academic institutions—and extracurricular activities, too.

Happy New School Year!

Office Manager/ Business Marketing Patricia Ramos 707-205-1539 patty@family-life.us

Features Editor Melissa Chianta melissa@family-life.us

Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us

Contributing Writers Mary Helen Berg Jessica Guerrieri Tanni Haas Steven D. Herrington, PhD Karen Nochimowski

Billing Jan Wasson-Smith

Publishing Office

STRONG SWIMMERS CONFIDENT KIDS

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

YMCA SWIM LESSONS Sign up Today for YMCA Swim Lessons Whether your child is a swim starter, developing swim basics or working on swim strokes our swim lessons build skills, confidence and character.

SONOMA COUNTY FAMILY YMCA  1111 College Avenue  545-9622  scfymca.org For INFO visit website or contact us at 545-9622 x 3137

6 SonomaFamilyLife

REGISTER TODAY!

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

LY ORCHARD FAMI S

145

th

Gravenstein Harvest Festival in the Orchard

Sat & Sun AUGUST 21 & 22 11am–7pm • 11am–5pm

Cider, food & music 707-205-1545 • (1/2 mile north of Gowan’s Oak Tree) Highway 128, Philo www.gowansheirloomcider.com

Cooking with Kids

Easy Salmon Bake a BBQ Fillet

By Momma Chef

I

t’s the much-anticipated salmon season. And this has to be one of the easiest salmon dishes you are ever going to make. You absolutely cannot mess this up. It’s a three-ingredient recipe that uses a prepared sauce. And it only takes 25 minutes to make, from start to finish. Just don’t overcook the fish!

I am all about presentation so if I’m using a large piece of salmon, I spray the pan with a good amount of a cooking spray like Pam. This prevents any skin or flesh from sticking to the pan. When the fish is done cooking, I just gently slide two spatulas under it and place it whole on the serving dish, without leaving any part of the fish behind.

Your tasty barbecued salmon will be an instant hit with family and friends. ¶ This article originally appeared on MommaChef.com. It has been reprinted here with permission.

Karen Nochimowski, aka Momma Chef, is a mother of three active boys (ages 12, 8, and 5). On her blog, MommaChef.com, find more of her recipes, all of which require no more than six ingredients and six minutes of prep time.

8 SonomaFamilyLife

Fabulous 3-Ingredient BBQ Salmon • 1 ½-2 pounds boneless salmon filet • 1/3 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce • ¼ cup soy sauce (gluten-free options: coconut aminos or gluten-free soy sauce)

Instructions 1. Mix together soy and barbecue sauce and rub on salmon.

2. Bake at 375°F uncovered for 20 minutes.

Serves: 6–8

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Bits & Pieces

Roy Rogers

Friday Night Funk and Blues

I

BOB HANKINS

n this age of COVID, just the prospect of hanging out, in person, with other humans may be enough to lure people to downtown Cloverdale’s Friday Night Street Fairs. But the event has much more than socializing to offer, including a live music concert series, vendor booths, a wine and beer garden, and a variety of family-friendly activities. This month’s concerts feature Rojai and the Pocket (funk and soul) on August 6; Roy Rogers and the Delta Rhythm Kings (blues and slide guitar) on August 13; Full Moon Alice (roots rock) on August 20; and Tommy Castro and the Painkillers (blues) on August 27. The street fair begins at 6 p.m.; the concerts run 6:30–9:30 p.m. Both are held in downtown Cloverdale. See cloverdaleartsalliance.org for more information. ¶

Mexican Rhythms

M

Grupo Folklórico Quetzalen

exican folk dancing is a feast for the senses as dancers twirl in long, brightly colored dresses and stomp their feet to the vibrant rhythms of mariachi. And, thanks to Grupo Folklórico Quetzalen, locals can see this spectacle without even having to leave the county, let alone the country. The Sonoma Valley–based troupe will be giving a free performance on August 28, 6–7 p.m., at the Old Courthouse Square in Santa Rosa.

Go to downtownsantarosa.org for more information. ¶

A Comedy of Clothes

B

ack in 1998, when email was still a bit of a novelty, a witty rom-com came out called You’ve Got Mail. It was the story of two lovers who started their relationship online (imagine that?!) and sisters Nora and Delia Ephron wrote it. The celebrity duo didn’t just write screenplays, though.

They also wrote plays, such as Love, Loss & What I Wore, a comedy inspired by the memories that various pieces of clothing elicit. The show is the next project of the Sixth Street Playhouse in Santa Rosa.

Performances will be held on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m., August 12–28, with a 2 p.m. Saturday performance on August 21. A special preview will be held on August 12 at 7:30 p.m. Purchase tickets, which are $18–$29, at 6thstreetplayhouse.com. ¶ 10 SonomaFamilyLife

Love, Loss & What I Wore

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Schulz Museum Celebrates 19th Year

W

hat would it be like to meet Snoopy and Charlie Brown in the flesh? Kids (and adults) who have ever wondered will get a chance to find out at the 19th Anniversary Celebration with Snoopy and Charlie Brown at the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa. The party will feature visits with the two beloved Peanuts characters, chances to win goodies at the prize wheel, and, as a noon refreshment, Cold Stone Creamery ice cream cake. Those who sign up for a museum membership will receive a Peanuts gift bag. The event happens on August 21, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Find out more at schulzmuseum.org. ¶

Free Flicks

A

girl in Shanghai finds a yeti on her roof. She names him Everest and undertakes a magical adventure to get him home, to the highest point on Earth. This is the plot of the 2019 animated blockbuster Abominable, which will be screened for free on August 3 at the Windsor Town Green in Windsor. The following week, on August 10, the Town Green will host the 2017 animated film Coco. Movies will begin 15 minutes before sunset.

Bring a blanket or low-back chair; go to townofwindsor.com for more information. ¶

Wine, Walk, and Song

The Henry Coopers

MICHAEL DAVIS

S

ipping wine, noshing on organic eats, walking through a garden—these are some of the hallmarks of Sonoma County leisure. And they are all in one place at Cornerstone Sonoma. This summer, they can all be enjoyed while listening to live Americana and rock music. See local bands, including Kingsborough, the Henry Coopers, and Obsidian Son, deliver covers and originals Saturdays and Sundays in August, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Find out more at cornerstonesonoma.com. ¶

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 11

teachers are prepared to meet each student where they are and build on their strengths. You can help by talking to your teacher about your children’s strengths and areas where they might need help.

Masked & Ready to Learn SCOE Plans In-Person Classes

By Steven D. Herrington, PhD

T

he past 18 months have been an unprecedented and difficult time for our education community. Teachers had to leave their classrooms behind and quickly learn how to use Zoom. Parents had to serve as their students’ part-time teachers and Internet experts, while the ongoing burden of the pandemic greatly affected family life.

I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt appreciation to everyone who assisted students the best they could. And I’d also like to acknowledge the many people in our community who suffered and were deeply affected by the pandemic. It goes without saying that all of us in education look forward to the

12 SonomaFamilyLife

start of the new school year. The number one priority of our entire school community will be to work hard to support students’ social and emotional needs.

We are excited to reconnect with students! Don’t worry if you think your student might have fallen behind.

Children are incredibly resilient, and

There is plenty of good news from health experts that will reassure parents and school staff that schools are healthy places to be. We now have high vaccination rates in our county, a better understanding of how the virus spreads, and improved air ventilation in most schools. In addition, scientific

Teachers are prepared to meet each student where they are. research has shown that children tend to not easily transmit the virus between each other— especially when precautions like masking are in place. According to new health guidelines released by the California Department of Public Health for the 2021–22 school year, all students will need to wear masks indoors at the beginning of the year. The main reason for this is to reduce the need for social distancing and hybrid schedules, thereby helping all schools return to full-time, in-person learning.

Wearing masks will also help reduce the need for children to stay home and quarantine if they are exposed to the virus. No later than November 1, the state plans to reassess this requirement, taking into account the latest vaccination and virus rates.

It’s extremely important that parents and educators pay close attention to students’ well-being after a school year that included thousands of hours of

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

screen time, limited social interaction with classmates and friends, and strong emotions about being isolated.

To meet the demands of students’ social and emotional needs, the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE) has increased its team of mental health counselors to support

All students will need to wear masks indoors at the beginning of the year.

Back to School Resources scoe.org/covid

children and school staff countywide.

If you feel your child needs support, visit scoe.org/traumahelp, or talk to your teacher or school mental health counselor.

During these unprecedented times, many parents of Kindergarten-aged children may be wondering how to prepare their children for in-person learning in the fall.

Vaccination is vitally important for our community’s health and can help keep everyone safe. If your child is age-eligible (12 years and older) and hasn’t yet been vaccinated, learn more about the safety and benefits of vaccination with up-to-date information at scoe.org/vaccines.

Over the summer, SCOE has worked closely with local school leaders and teachers to prepare them for a safe return to full-time, in-person instruction that is focused on reconnection to the classroom, restoring a joy of learning, and addressing unmet emotional and academic needs. All of us in the education community look forward to teaching children in-person again and greatly appreciate the time and sacrifice that parents have made during the past school year. ¶

The Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE) has you covered!

A Parent’s Guide: Getting Ready for Kindergarten: Download SCOE’s kindergarten readiness guide!

Click below to access our kindergarten readiness guide, developed by early childhood education experts at the Sonoma County Office of Education.

English

Spanish

Steven D. Herrington, PhD, is the Sonoma County Superintendent of Schools.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Raising Readers: Download SCOE’s family reading guide! Click below to

access our family reading guide. For families looking for help supporting their young readers, check out our Raising Readers guide. Copies available at most Sonoma County library branches.

English

Spanish

scoe.org August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 13

of my heart. I couldn’t understand it back then like I can now.

It’s hard to believe that while you were once inside of my body and I gave you life, you must now go experience a place without me.

What I wouldn’t give to be a fly on the wall, soundlessly observing from up above, secretly witnessing all the magical ways you’ll grow. I’m envious of those who will see what I was not meant to.

Your First Day A Letter of School to My Child F

By Jessica Guerrieri

or your first birthday I ordered a cake to look like your favorite book. Because you were my only child, I had all kinds of time for such things. The woman at the bakery asked me if I had cried over my baby turning one.

That’s silly, why would I feel sad about you getting older? I thought.

I had yet to learn that the days are long, but the years are short.

You’re too young to understand the enormity of these moments.

Four years later, I’m sitting here nursing my third baby, while my middle daughter yells for more toilet paper and you, my love, are writing all nine letters of your name on the last of said toilet paper, in preparation for kindergarten. If

I could, I’d return to that bakery clutching your very first lost tooth, and explain how I wept alone in my bathroom because I experience each of my children’s milestones as if they’re being etched inside the walls

14 SonomaFamilyLife

Watching you, I feel so many things.

I feel curious about what kinds of life lessons I was not meant to teach you.

I feel scared about things I cannot even type on this page—things so terrifying my breath catches in my throat. If you are there and I am

I experience each of my children’s milestones as if they’re being etched inside the walls of my heart. here, how would I use my body to shield yours and why do I have to worry about such things?

I feel grateful that you have a place to go. After the year we’ve had, I’ve never been more thrilled to leave things like “phonemic awareness” and “place value” to the experts, so I can exclusively focus on my role as your mother.

I feel excited about all that will unfold in front of you, the stuff that spans beyond the classroom walls. School

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

RELENTLESSLY PURSUING EXCELLENCE FOR ALL STUDENTS

is a place that unlocks the jungle gym of your mind and explores new vulnerabilities of the heart.

I feel jealous because there will be pieces of your story that I know you must write alone.

While I’m here deep inside these feelings, I recognize this is not about me and my blubbery tears; it’s about you. Of course, you’re too young to understand the enormity of

NURTURING YOUR CHILD’S JOY OF LEARNING

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

FOR KINDERGARTEN & TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN (KINDER BRIDGE) FOR 2021–22

CALL 542-6272 TO SIGN UP

CALIFORNIA DISTINGUISHED SCHOOLS I feel curious about the life lessons I was not meant to teach you. these moments. Instead, you’ve got that crinkle in your forehead, the one that carries all your uncertainty.

It would be impossible to ascertain whether your fear has sprouted from being a child inside a COVID-world, or more simply the heaviness of venturing out into the unknown.

Either way, I hope that, as your mother, I’ve given you enough tools to withstand the weight of it all.

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

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

Children must be five on or before Sept. 1, 2021 to be eligible for kindergarten.

Two-year Kinder Bridge program offered for children turning five on or after Sept. 2, 2021.

707 542-2201 • LEARN MORE AT WWW.BVUSD.ORG

Elevating Excellence for All

Enroll Online (TK–8) Academic Excellence Enrichment & More

Most of all, I feel nostalgic for the days where I alone was the sun, the moon, and all your stars—just as you’re mine. Now you must unlock your own unique universe, as I applaud from a distance. I know this is only the beginning of your adventure, my child, just know that somehow, I miss you already. ¶

Successful Distance Learning & Homeschool programs

sebastopolschools.org (707) 829-4570

Jessica Guerrieri is a freelance writer/blogger and a mom to three.

Find her at witandspitup.com and follow her on Instagram @witandspitup.

CASTLE Preschool & Child Care Park Side School (K–4) Brook Haven School (5–8) www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 15

and stopped spending all-nighters writing essays that were due the very next day.

Study for mastery, not time.

An agenda book is great for teaching kids what and when to study. It doesn’t help much when it comes to showing them how to study. You

Study Secrets Help Teens Achieve Academic Success

By Tanni Haas

A

s a professional educator for more than 20 years and the parent of a 15-year-old, I’ve learned a lot about what it takes for kids to succeed in middle and high school and what parents can do to support them. Here are some of the most important lessons.

Plan ahead—and backwards.

On the first day of middle school, kids often get an “agenda book” (or calendar) to write down all of their assignments with deadlines. This is a great way to teach them the importance of planning ahead so they don’t hand in their assignments late. But an important thing kids have a hard time understanding is that the agenda book isn’t just for planning ahead, but also for planning backwards, in the sense of creating a timeline. Teach your kids 16 SonomaFamilyLife

There are ways of using the Internet that can actually boost your kids’ learning. to take each assignment deadline and work backwards, so they can see what they need to do each day to turn in their assignments on time.

Once my son understood this idea of planning backwards, he became much better at managing his time

Teach them the real-world applications of what they’re studying in school. can teach them that by making them understand that they need to focus on learning the material as opposed to spending a certain amount of time studying. When my son was in his first year of middle school, he used to give himself a certain amount of time each evening for homework. That was fine but every so often he didn’t do as well on a test as he’d expected.

As an experiment, I encouraged him to focus on the material instead of how long he studied it. That changed everything. Sometimes he now studies for several hours before he’s ready for a test. Other times 30 minutes or less is sufficient. He has learned to focus on the material, not the clock.

Use the Internet, but wisely.

No matter where you look, you see warnings about the dangers of letting your kids surf the Internet when they’re studying. These warnings aren’t without merit. If your kids are constantly checking

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

JOIN OUR SCHOOL FAMILY! REGISTER FOR 2021–22 SCHOOL YEAR • ALL GRADES KINDER ACADEMY THROUGH 12TH GRADE

social media or playing games, they are distracted, and that’ll negatively affect how well they absorb the material. However, there are ways of using the Internet that can actually boost your kids’ learning. For example, my son recently completed a fairly difficult high school course

Teach your kids to take each assignment deadline and work backwards. in physics. He’s a solid student who takes good notes and studies hard, but he got much better at solving physics problems when he started watching YouTube videos. He found a lot of videos where teachers from schools across the country demonstrated how to solve problems in different ways.

Apply lessons to daily life.

An excellent way to support your kids’ learning is to teach them the real-world applications of what they’re studying in school: It makes the material stick so much better than any amount of homework. To help my son better understand math concepts, I often ask him to help me with practical things that require an understanding of math, like adapting dinner recipes for more people than originally planned or taking measurements for new window treatments in our home. ¶

We’re so excited to welcome new students to Santa Rosa City Schools.

The sooner new families register for school in the fall, the easier it will be for them to receive information about their school.

• KINDER ACADEMY (2 year kindergarten) available at many schools • LEARNING HOUSE is our magnet school that offers Project Based Learning for grades K-3: srcschools.org/learninghouse • The new school year for all grades begins August 12, full-time & in-person!

We’re here to help YOU! Call 707-890-3808

We can’t wait to meet you!

www.SRCSchools.org/registration

OUR SCHOOL MISSION + PHILOSOPHY

Tanni Haas, PhD, is a college communications professor. www.presentationschool.com | admissions@presentationschool.com | 707-953-0122 ext. 202

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 17

2021–22 School Calendars The following are holidays for all schools in Sonoma County: Sept. 6, Nov. 11, Jan. 17, Feb. 21, May 30

First Day

Thanksgiving

Winter Break

Lincoln Day

Spring Break

Last Day Other Days Off

Alexander Valley Union

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 7

Mar. 21–25

June 10

Bellevue Union

Aug. 12

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31 Feb. 14

Mar. 18–25 June 2

Nov. 1, Apr. 15

Bennett Valley Union

Aug. 12

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31 Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25 June 1

Nov. 12, Jan. 3

Cinnabar Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31 Feb. 14

Mar. 28–Apr. 1 June 2

Cloverdale Unified

Nov. 22–26 Dec. 20–Jan. 4 Feb. 18

Mar. 21–25

June 9

Feb. 17

Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified* Aug. 17

Nov. 22–26

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Oct. 11, Nov. 1. Dec. 17

Dunham

Aug. 16

Nov. 22–26 Dec. 20–Jan. 3 Feb. 14

Forestville Union

Aug. 19

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31 Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

Geyserville Unified

Aug. 11

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31 Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25 June 2

Aug. 19

Dec. 20–31 Feb. 14

Mar. 28–Apr. 1 June 9 June 9

Nov. 1, Feb. 18, Apr. 15 & 18, May 27

Nov. 12

Oct. 22 Oct. 11, Nov. 12, Jan. 3 Oct. 15, Nov. 12, Jan. 3, Feb. 7

*Charter & year-round schools in these districts may follow a different calendar.

KINDERGARTEN THROUGH TWELFTH GRADE

Fairness Kindness

Respect Integrity

Emphasizing the 8 Core Virtues & Excellent Academics Developing Global Awareness & An Appreciation of One's Inherent Spiritual Wisdom Humility

Filial Piety Trustworthiness

Enroll Today!

707.468.1138 (Boys) 707.468.3896 (Girls) www.igdvs.org

18 SonomaFamilyLife

Citizenship

Registration starts in May for Sacramental Preparation for youth Junior Youth Group • Senior Youth Group With classes starting in September Registration fees will increase in August.

ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON CHURCH 4595 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park 707-585-3708 | sesreled@gmail.com www.st-elizabeth-seton.com

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

First Day

Thanksgiving

Winter Break

Lincoln Day

Spring Break

Last Day Other Days Off

Gravenstein Union

Aug. 18

Nov. 24–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Oct. 1

Guerneville

Aug. 12

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 9

Oct. 11, Jan. 3

Harmony Union*

Aug. 16

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 18

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Nov. 1 & 12

Healdsburg Unified

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 9

Nov. 1, Dec. 17, Jan. 3, May 27

Kenwood

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Feb. 28, Apr. 15

Liberty*

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 18

Mark West Union

Aug. 12

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–Jan. 3

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Oct. 8, Nov. 1, May 20

Montgomery

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Jan. 21

Oak Grove Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 7

Nov. 1 & 12, Jan. 3

Old Adobe Union

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–Jan. 4

Feb. 14

Mar. 28–Apr. 1 June 3

Petaluma City Schools*

Aug. 17

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–Jan. 4

Feb. 14

Mar. 28–Apr. 1 June 10 Feb. 11

Piner-Olivet Union*

Aug. 12

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 1

Jan. 3

Rincon Valley Union

Aug. 16

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Nov. 12

Mar. 28–Apr. 1 June 9

** See below

*Charter & year-round schools in these districts may follow a different calendar. ** Sept. 24, Oct. 11, Nov. 12, Feb. 22, Apr. 18, May 27

St. John the Baptist Catholic School

Nominated 2021 Best School in Sonoma County • Serving TK–8th Grade • Challenging Academic Curriculum • Spanish, Technology, Music, Art, PE & Sports Programs

• Individual & small group Resource Center Services • All classes have teacher assistants • Extended care available

Call 707-433-2758

to schedule your individual tour Visit our website at www.sjshbg.org Located in Historic Downtown Healdsburg www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 19

2021–22 School Calendars

First Day

Thanksgiving

Winter Break

Lincoln Day

Spring Break

Last Day Other Days Off

Roseland

Aug. 11

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–23

May 26

Oct. 4, Jan. 3

Santa Rosa City Elementary* Aug. 12

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 2

Jan. 27, Mar. 18, Apr. 15

Santa Rosa City High*

Aug. 12

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Jan. 27, Mar. 18, Apr. 15

Sebastopol Union*

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–Jan. 3

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 9

Oct. 11, Nov. 1 & 12

Sonoma Valley Unified*

Aug. 16

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–Jan. 3

Feb. 18

Mar. 14–18

June 9

Apr. 15 & 18, May 27

Twin Hills Union*

Aug. 16

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 2

Nov. 12

Two Rock Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–Jan. 3

Feb. 14

Mar. 28–Apr. 1 June 10 Oct. 11

Waugh

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 28–Apr. 1 June 10

West Side Union

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 9

Nov. 1, Jan. 3, May 27

West Sonoma County High

Aug. 12

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

June 2

Oct. 11, Nov. 12, Jan. 3

Wilmar Union

Aug. 18

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Windsor Unified

Aug. 12

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 18

Mar. 21–25

June 3

Oct. 15, Jan. 18

Wright

Aug. 11

Nov. 22–26

Dec. 20–31

Feb. 14

Mar. 21–25

May 27

Nov. 1, Jan. 3 & 4

Mar. 28–Apr. 1 June 3

Nov. 1, Apr. 18

*Charter & year-round schools in these districts may follow a different calendar.

“Where children learn to play and play to learn” Ages 2 years, 9 months–5 years We are passionate about providing a supportive atmosphere of discovery, joy, and creativity where children learn about the world around them through social interaction and hands-on learning.

707-546-7330 2095 Franklin Ave • Santa Rosa www.franklinparkpreschool.org 20 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Led by credentialed teacher Monday through Friday 8:30 –2 :30 After care offered until 6:00PM

Alternative educational choices for children

•

Outdoor educational classroom

•

Individual curriculum

•

Field Trips

•

Unique art program

•

Farm animal care

•

Weekly Riding Lessons

•

Archery, swimming and much more

Parent-directed program gives your child an enriching and unique experience in uncertain times

McDonald Ranch, Inc. 3295 Guerneville Rd Santa Rosa, Ca 95401 Call 707-583-6711 with your questions or visit mcdonaldranch.org

decorated in uplifting, kid-friendly colors?

2. Does the space have areas where the kids can work together in small groups as well as independently?

Is it possible for the kids to work quietly on their own as well as to talk and share ideas with other kids?

Does the program follow a specific teaching and learning philosophy?

Awesome Extras Find a Great After-School Program

By Tanni Haas

W

hen considering an appropriate after-school program for your kids, how do you choose among the programs available? What are some important factors to consider? Drawing on the advice of reputable organizations such as the Afterschool Alliance, the AfterSchool Network, and the National AfterSchool Association, I’ve developed a list of things to think about as you evaluate your different options.

Before you make any decisions, it’s advisable to contact each program director and ask for permission to see the actual spaces where your kids would spend their time. Look around and ask yourself the following questions: 1. Is the homework space separate from the space dedicated to other, 22 SonomaFamilyLife

Is there a daily routine that all the kids follow, or do they have lots of choice? non-academic activities like arts and crafts, music, and sports? Is the space well-lit and clean? Is it

3. Is there comfortable furniture, such as armchairs, beanbags, or large floor cushions, where the kids can relax and immerse themselves in a good book?

4. Does the space have plenty of computers, printers, and other learning tools? Is there a library with a broad selection of fiction and non-fiction books for kids of different ages?

5. Is the space well stocked with non-electronic games (chess, checkers, puzzles, word games) that stimulate kids’ cognitive skills?

6. Is there access to clean and safe restrooms nearby?

It’s also advisable to ask each program director, or alternatively the senior staff member in charge, the following questions during your site visit: 7. What are the program hours? Can parents sign up for specific days of the week, or must they commit to the whole week? Is the program open only during the school year or also during holidays?

8. How much does the program cost?

Is payment due in full up front or on a monthly basis? Are there extra fees

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

for personal tutoring or trips? Will parents be charged a late fee if they’re late for pick-up? Are needs-based scholarships available?

9. Does the program follow a specific teaching and learning philosophy? Is there a daily routine that all the kids follow, or do they have lots of choice?

What is the age range of the kids, and how many kids are there in the different age groups?

10. What is the staff-student ratio, and what kind of credentials does the staff have? Are they licensed and certified teachers or otherwise educated and trained to take care of kids? Do they have experience assisting kids with special needs? Are one or more of the staff certified in CPR and first aid?

Does the program have an emergency

preparedness plan, and are staff trained on how to handle emergencies?

behavioral issues, and do they mediate conflicts among the kids?

11. Before the program starts, does the staff meet with parents to discuss their kids’ specific circumstances and

13. Do the kids work only on school assignments, or does the staff give them age-appropriate tasks as a supplement?

Is the space well stocked with non-electronic games that stimulate kids’ cognitive skills?

14. Do the kids get a nutritional snack and time to play before they start doing their homework? How are they supervised during snack and play time?

learning goals? Does the staff offer parents regular feedback on how their kids are doing?

15. Do all the kids participate in the same extracurricular activities, or can they choose activities based on their interests? ¶

12. Does the staff actively monitor the kids when they’re doing their homework and offer help when needed? How does the staff handle

Karate is the BEST thing you can DO for Your Child!

Explore local after-school programs at Sonoma Family Life’s Virtual Back-to-School Fair at sonomafamilylife.com.

Tanni Haas, PhD, is a college communications professor and parent.

LET’S DANCE!

Give your child the BEST start to life there is!

Get 2 Weeks of FREE Lessons and a FREE uniform 50% Off Enrollment for a Limited Time

“My daughter has grown so much in her confidence and willingness to step forward and help. For someone who is only 4 years old she has more courage and confidence than some adults.” —Justin Overshiner, Rosie age 4, Santa Rosa Your child will develop supreme confidence, incredible self-control, laser sharp focus, exceptional fitness, rock solid self-respect, improved grades, and relief from pandemic stress.

BALLET • PRE-BALLET, TAP & HIP HOP • JAZZ LYRICAL CONTEMP • TAP & HIP HOP • TUMBLING Which class is right for you?

Call Now (707) 575-1681

or visit our website AskAboutKarate.com Shotokan Karate Leadership School®

8465 Old Redwood Hwy. Windsor (707) 292-4002 • www.studiow.dance

At the corner of Marlow and Piner Roads

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 23

photo geotagging, and set up non-administrative accounts.

Remind your kids not to share any personal information. Set up a charging station away from the child’s room to limit screen time at night. See sidebar “Safe at Any Age” for advice on how to talk to kids about cyber safety.

Cyber Security How to Keep Your Family Safe

By Center for Cyber Safety and Education

D

id you know that 400,000 kids per year are victims of identity theft? Or that literally millions of people lose their money, privacy, and sense of security every year due to online scams?

There are many things you can do to keep yourself, your kids, and your senior loved ones safe online. Here are just a few.

Tips for Adults & Seniors New Device Safety Change the default password and disable photo geotagging.

Online Shopping Use a credit card, not a debit card, because you then have more fraud protection.

Don’t store your credit card number on websites. Use “https” when visiting websites. Create strong, unique passwords.

24 SonomaFamilyLife

Avoid Phishing Scams Learn how to identify and avoid bogus emails that appear to be from trusted brands. These emails often aim to collect your private information to open new accounts—or invade your existing ones.

Make Sure Your Internet Connection Is Secure Rename routers and networks. Use strong passwords. Turn on encryption. Use a VPN (virtual private network; see youtube.com/watch?v=zPqpWEJrhf0).

Tips for Parents

Gaming Encourage your kids to have private in-game chats only with their IRL (in-real-life) friends; set rules for time limits and allowed games; and implement restrictions in the app store to prevent downloading any questionable apps.

Teach your children to immediately report offensive and harmful comments.

Social Media Require parental approval of social groups and networks, and “friend” or “follow” your children to keep tabs on their social media activity. Ensure your child’s profile is set to “private.”

Cyberbullying Teach your children to immediately report offensive and harmful comments. Talk with them about recognizing signs of cyberbullying, including unintentional bullying. Act swiftly and help your children take action. ¶ The Center for Cyber Safety and Education’s mission is to empower students, teachers, and whole communities to secure themselves online through cyber safety education and awareness programs, information security scholarships, and industry and consumer research. Find out more at iamcybersafe.org/s.

New Device Safety Change the default password, disable August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Safe at Any Age How to Speak to Kids About Online Threats 1. Do pick the right moment. Bringing up the subject can be challenging, as your tweens or teens may automatically become defensive about their privacy. One of the options for doing it properly is to choose the right time. Don’t start talking about your child’s Internet use and the dangers that come with it after a disagreement, when tensions are already high. With kids, and especially teenagers, this can lead to problems.

example, they may know that there are Internet predators out there, but do they also know that pictures of them drinking or smoking underage could get them suspended or even arrested?

2. Do wait until your children get off the computer. When they walk away from it, ask them if they know how to be safe online and if they are aware of the risks and dangers of the Internet. This way, you will sound less like an overprotective, overbearing parent, at least to your teenagers.

3. Don’t assume your children already know about Internet safety. When discussing Internet safety with children, it’s crucial not to assume that they already know about it. Even if your children stop you, saying they already know how to be safe online, carry on. Be sure to repeat your point and establish any Internet rules you want them to follow. It’s important to remember that teenagers often think they know everything, but many don’t. For

4. Don’t skip the social media platforms. Since so many kids are using social media, these platforms need to be discussed. Make sure to tell them that anyone can hide behind a computer, even an Internet predator. Also, help them understand the dangers of posting pictures and personal information on their social media profiles. In addition to social media platforms, apps and Internet chat rooms should also be discussed. As with social media platforms, make sure that your kids know that they could be talking to anyone. Tell them to immediately get out of the chat room if the tone turns sexual or if they start feeling uncomfortable.

5. Don’t forget the personal blogs. Many websites allow their users to start free blogs. Many teenagers find this a great way to vent or let their friends stay up-to-date on their thoughts. Your teens must understand that everyone can view these blogs, so their information isn’t really private and personal.

We Grow them★

REDWOOD STRONG!

LOVE TO DANCE?

WE LOVE TO DANCE AND YOU CAN TOO! The Keenan School works to bring the fun and joy of traditional Irish dance to all! From the age of 3 to the teen years, dancers in all levels of interest and experience have a place here.

PLEASE CALL FOR COMPLIMENTARY CLASS 326 Petaluma Blvd. North • 542-1367 Keenan5678@att.net www.keenanirishdanceschool.com

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Classes for all ages Parties Camps

★reg

IT’S ALMOST TIME! New sessions begin in September

★reg

Now Enrolling for Fall since 1979

Redwood Empire Gymnastics www.regymnastics.com 707.763.5010

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 25

women breastfeed, and they have more classroom and clinical training than other breastfeeding counselors. Some registered nurses or other medical professionals also may take courses to augment their education so they can better assist women with breastfeeding.

Lactation How to Find Breastfeeding Low-Down Assistance W

By Mary Helen Berg

omen who look forward to nursing a new baby, and think of it as a warm, bonding experience, are sometimes shocked to find that the first weeks of breastfeeding can be exhausting, frustrating, and painful. Nursing is not always easy, but it is a skill that, with a little patience and determination, anyone can learn. Lactation specialists are trained health-care professionals dedicated to helping new mothers overcome the hurdles they encounter when first learning to nurse.

When I had my first baby, I had never heard of a lactation consultant. Little did I know that she would become my most trusted friend—if only for a little while.

Who Is a Lactation Consultant?

Lactation consultants come from a variety of backgrounds. The most highly trained are International 26 SonomaFamilyLife

Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC), certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. Their training includes 90 hours of Lactation Education, and up to 1,000 hours of supervised clinical work, as well as college level courses in biology, anatomy, and nutrition. These professionals are committed to helping

What They Do Your consultant may be based in a hospital, or she may have a private practice. You may go to her office, or she may make home visits. She will examine you and your baby to rule out obvious physical problems that may hinder breastfeeding. Next, she will

ILCA has a directory of certified consultants at ilca.org. talk to you about how to position your body, how to hold your baby, and how to place him on the breast and help him latch on. Then, she will ask you to nurse while she observes your process. She can advise you on how long to nurse and how often. She will confirm what works, coach you on alternative approaches, and even may provide a written plan for you to follow when she leaves.

How to Find One According to the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA), some hospital complexes contain lactation centers that will send a specialist to your room to work with you and your baby before you are discharged, and provide service for up to ten days after the birth. You can also seek a referral from your obstetrician, pediatrician, or a breastfeeding support

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

organization such as La Leche League International (llli.org). Also, ILCA has a directory of certified consultants at ilca.org. Locally, the Sonoma County Breastfeeding Coalition has multiple resources at

Lactation consultants are trained health-care specialists. sonomacountybreastfeeding coalition.org as does the California Department of Health Care Services at tinyurl.com/cx9vksu9.

What’s the Cost? Lactation consultants are trained health-care specialists, so don’t expect a bargain. Charges can range greatly

according to your location and your consultant’s experience, among other variables. Check with your insurance provider, as it may cover some lactation services under obstetric or first-year pediatric care.

The Good News Although lactation consultant services are not cheap, there is good news: A consultant can usually quickly target your problem and get you on the right track in just a few visits.

Mary Helen Berg is a freelance writer and mother of three who spent the better part of four years breastfeeding.

Her work has appeared in USA Today, the Los Angeles Times, Your Teen Magazine, Scary Mommy, and parenting publications nationwide.

She is currently working on a picture book for children.

You Need a Lactation Consultant If… You don’t live near female relatives who can show you the ropes, or you are the first of your friends to have a baby.

You are anxious about nursing.

You are a mother of multiples and need advice on feeding two or more babies.

Your baby has nipple confusion and won’t take your breast after trying a bottle.

Your nipples are cracked and sore.

Your milk supply is low.

You need to learn how to express your milk.

You have physical issues such as inverted or flat nipples.

Your breasts are engorged and painful.

Your baby has trouble latching on.

THE CITY OF COTATI PRESENTS THE 28TH ANNUAL COTATI KIDS DAY FESTIVAL AND PARADE

A Very Merry Unbirthday!

August 14, 2021 Downtown & La PLaza Park, Cotati 10AM-3PM FREE FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! PANCAKE BREAKFAST PARADE TALENT SHOW GAMES PRIZES VENDORS AND MORE! MORE INFO: (707) 665-4222 AWILSON@COTATICITY.ORG

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 27

August

Calendar of Events Drink Cider Under Apple Trees

T

he apple trees at Gowan’s Family Orchards in Boonville have been rooted there for more than a hundred years. And it is under those long-lived trees where the Gowans will celebrate their 145th gravenstein harvest, on August 21, 11 a.m.–7 p.m., and August 22, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. The celebration will include music, snacks, and, of course, award-winning cider made from the Gowans’ heirloom apples. A fee will be charged. For more information, go to gowansheirloomcider.com. ¶

Sunday 1 FREE Cornerstone Sonoma Summer Music Series. Steve Pile Band, Kingsborough, the Henry Coopers, Obsidian Son & others will perform throughout the month. Saturdays & Sundays.

11 a.m.–3 p.m. 23570 Arnold Dr., Sonoma. Performance schedule: cornerstonesonoma.com.

Bluegrass Day. Featuring Del McCoury, Watson Family Hour & Fog Holler. Lawn & auditorium seating. $15–$50. 2 p.m. Green Music Center. 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. gmc.sonoma.edu.

Sonoma County Fair’s Summer Fun Fest. Admission: $5–$13. Ages 5 &

younger: free. Parking: $10. Limited capacity. Buy tickets in advance. Aug. 1, 4, 5 & 8: Noon–10 p.m. Aug. 6 & 7: Noon–11 p.m. (Closed Aug. 2 & 3). Sonoma County Fairgrounds.

1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. Limited capacity each day.

Tickets must be purchased online: sonomacountyfair.com.

28 SonomaFamilyLife

FREE Student Music Showcase.

Featuring students from local music schools. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Aug. 1: Play It Forward. Aug. 8: Mia from Art & Soul School of Creative & Performing Arts.

Old Courthouse Square. 600 4th St., Santa Rosa. downtownsantarosa.org.

Tuesday 3 FREE Tuesdays in the Plaza Music Series. 6–8 p.m. Healdsburg Plaza.

Healdsburg Ave. & Matheson St., Healdsburg. ci.healdsburg.ca.us/335/ tuesdays-in-the-plaza.

FREE Family Movies on the Green. Aug. 3: Abominable. Aug. 10: Coco. Bring blanket or low-back chair. No blankets on lawn before 4:30 p.m. COVID-19 guidelines followed. Movie begins 15 minutes after sunset. Windsor Town Green.

9291 Old Redwood Hwy., Windsor. townofwindsor.com.

FREE Annual National Night Out. Meet local law enforcement

agencies. Participate in family-friendly activities. Hosted by the Cotati Police Department. Activities: 6 p.m. BBQ:

7 p.m. Family movie: 8 p.m. LaPlaza Park. Cotati. cotaticity.org.

Wednesday 4 Garden Party. Help Children’s Museum staff weed, plant & harvest. Admission: $12. Babies 0–11 months: free. COVID-19 guidelines followed. Wednesdays. 9:30–10:30 a.m. Children’s Museum of Sonoma County. 1835 W. Steele Ln., Santa Rosa. cmosc.org.

FREE Backpack to School. DJs from the radio station 93.7 FM (The Bull) will be collecting donations of new backpacks for local underprivileged youth. Mountain Mike’s Pizza.

2280 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa. thebull937.com.

Thursday 5 Common Ground Support Groups for Families with Special Needs.

Aug. 5: New Family Zoom Meet-Up is for any family coping with a new life-changing diagnosis. Facilitated by Michelle Takemoto, LMFT. 9:30–11:30 a.m. Sign up via website. Aug. 7: Mom’s Meet-Up. For moms raising

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Fall Activities Are Here! a child with special needs. 1:30–3:30 p.m. Rincon Valley Community Park.

5108 Badger Rd., Santa Rosa. More info: commongroundsociety.org/ family-support.

Plan your fall and winter activities! See classes for the whole family, from tots to seniors!

Sign up today!

Friday 6

Register at SantaRosaRec.com 707-543-3737

FREE Party on the Plaza. Farmers’

market, outdoor concerts, food & craft vendors. Fridays. 5–8 p.m. Rohnert Park City Center Plaza. 475 City Center Dr., Rohnert Park. ilovefarmersmarkets.org/ farmers-markets.html.

FREE Friday Night Live & Street Fair. Concert

series, vendor booths, wine & beer garden & family-friendly activities. Fridays.

6:30–10 p.m. Downtown Plaza. 122 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. cloverdaleartsalliance.org.

Saturday 7 FREE How to Build Up Your Child.

For parents of children ages 4–11.

Two-part online workshop will explore the influences that contribute to children’s personality development.

Aug. 7 & 14: 10:30 a.m.–noon.

Register: calparents.org. 872-7242.

HOME OF

MOVE-IN SPECIAL CALL FOR DETAILS 6001 Commerce Blvd.

Rohnert Park

707-588-8878

EXPRESSWAY SELF STORAGE Mention this ad for:

50% off for the first 12 months

Petaluma Music Festival. The

St Select Elizabeth Ann supplies Seton Church sizes while last

Motets, Monophonics & Full Moonalice, among other bands. $55. Ages 12 & younger: free with a paying adult. Ages 13–17 can get $25 tickets at the door. Benefits music programs in local schools. COVID-19 guidelines followed. 11:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Sonoma–Marin Fairgrounds.

175 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. petalumamusicfestival.org.

Faith Formation Classes 20% off packing and moving

Catechesis Supplies. of Good Shepherd Pre-K (ages 3-6) Sacramental Preparation or Religious Education Classes (Grades 1-5) Online and hybrid classes beginning September

6001 Commerce Blvd.

Rohnert Park, CA 94928 707-588-8878

ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON CHURCH FAITH FORMATION

5 p.m.

Monsters Inc.: 7 p.m. Outdoor film screening. Lawn tickets: $5. 12 & Shrek & Monsters Inc. Shrek:

www.sonomafamilylife.com

B Mî `ƒ

4595 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park 707-585-3708 | sesreled@gmail.com www.st-elizabeth-seton.com

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 29

younger: free. Green Music Center.

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

FREE Trailside Litter Pick Up. Join

the park staff as they clean up litter.

All tools, gloves & materials will be supplied. 9 a.m.–noon. Joe Rodota Trail. 4211 Sebastopol Rd., Santa Rosa. Registration required: tinyurl.com/3du7yha4.

FREE Northern Sonoma County Fire & Earthquake Safety Expo.

Learn how to prepare home & pets for emergencies. Fire extinguisher training, CPR & AED training & live helicopter evacuation (10 a.m.).

Emergency supplies for purchase.

Activities for kids, including the opportunity to sit in a fire engine.

9 a.m.–4 p.m. Cloverdale Citrus Fairgrounds. 1 Citrus Fair Dr., Cloverdale. cloverdalecitrusfair.org.

Sunday 8 FREE Hikes with Hounds—From Coyotes to Dogs. Bring

furry friends.

Learn facts about the history of coyotes & look for signs of them in the wild. Also learn a few tricks for walking dogs in parks. Hike is about 2 miles. Parking is $7 or free for Regional Parks members. 10 a.m.–noon. Sonoma Valley Regional Park. 13630 Hwy. 12, Glen Ellen.

Registration required: tinyurl.com/ btsp7bwc.

Tuesday 10 Sensory Friendly Afternoon.

Exclusively for families of children who have special needs. Hands-on exhibits, art studio. Safe, accessible environment. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Children’s Museum of Sonoma County.

1835 W. Steele Ln., Santa Rosa.

30 SonomaFamilyLife

Pre-registration required: cmosc.org/ educate/sensory-friendly-afternoons.

Thursday 12 FREE The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged).

All of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories & tragedies in one comical audience-interactive play. Bring a blanket or a camp chair. Thursdays– Sundays. 7:30 p.m. Thru Aug. 29.

West Plaza Park. Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. (Behind the former Bear Republic Brewing Company.) raventheater.org.

Love, Loss & What I Wore. Wise & witty stories stitched together by the memories clothes can bring back.

Written by Nora & Delia Ephron. $25–$29. Under 30: $18. Preview Aug. 12: 7:30 p.m. ($19). Fridays & Saturdays: 7:30 p.m. Sundays (+Aug. 21): 2 p.m. Thru Aug. 28. 6th Street Playhouse. 52 W. 6th St., Santa Rosa.

6thstreetplayhouse.com.

Friday 13 Jurassic Park at the Drive-In. $30

per car in advance; $35 at the gate; $15 walk-ins; $5 students. 7:15 p.m.

Healdsburg Community Center.

1557 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. avfilmsociety.org.

Saturday 14 FREE E-Waste Recycling. Accepted:

TVs, computers & microwaves. Not accepted: air conditioners, batteries, lamps & light bulbs. Aug. 14 & 15: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Oakmont Community Center. 6637 Oakmont Dr., Santa Rosa. Visit website for full list of acceptable/unacceptable items. zerowastesonoma.gov/e-waste-disposal.

FREE Gravenstein Apple Fair Benefit Concert. T Sisters, Whiskey Family Band, Beau Beau Trio & others. Local food. $75. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Ragle Ranch Park. 500 Ragle Rd., Sebastopol. Tickets only available online: farmtrails.org/ gravenstein-apple-fair.

FREE Kids Day Parade & Festival.

Live entertainment, games, music, contests, food, family resources, crafts, activities & vendors. Costumes encouraged. Parade starts at Cotati City Hall & runs thru downtown to LaPlaza Park, where festival will be held. Parade: 10 a.m. Festival: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. LaPlaza Park, Old Redwood Hwy. & E. Cotati Ave., Cotati. cotaticity.org.

Friday 20 Grease Drive-In Movie. $25

per car. Gates: 7 p.m. Movie: 8 p.m. Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds.

175 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma.

Tickets: cityofpetaluma.org/ grease-drive-in-movie.

Saturday 21 Gowan’s Cider Festival in the Orchard. Celebrate 145th Gravenstein

Harvest. Cider, food & live music.

Admission: $45–$50. Includes hard cider tasting & food pairing.

Non-alcoholic cider available for the kids. Aug. 21: 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Aug. 22: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Gowan’s Apple Orchards.

6320 Hwy. 128, Philo (1/4 mile north of Gowan’s Apple Stand). 205-1545. gowansheirloomcider.com.

Jurassic Park in Concert with Santa Rosa Symphony. Watch film as Santa Rosa Symphony plays John Williams’ score live. Food & non-alcoholic beverages brought from home permitted outside only. Refreshments

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

available for purchase. Tickets start at $30. 7:30 p.m. Green Music Center.

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

Spinnin’ Wheels Car Show & BBQ.

10 a.m.–3 p.m. Petaluma Elks Lodge.

2105 S. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma. facebook.com/elkslodge901.

Celebration on the Basin. Boat &

paddleboard races, tug-of-war across the river, kayak water polo, live music, food vendors & beer & wine garden. $15. 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Downtown Petaluma. petalumadowntown.com/ celebration-on-the-basin.

Sunday 29 Remember When Rock Was Young–the Elton John Tribute.

Starring Craig A. Meyer. $37–$90.

3 p.m. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. lutherburbankcenter.org.

FREE Russian River Car Show. 8

a.m.–3 p.m. New location: Northwood Commons. 19420 Hwy. 116, Monte Rio. russianriverhistory.org.

19th Anniversary Celebration with Snoopy & Charlie Brown. Meet

Snoopy & Charlie Brown, spin the prize wheel, & at noon eat free ice cream cake. $12. Ages 4–18: $5. Ages 3 & younger: free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Charles M. Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. schulzmuseum.org.

OUR HVAC SAVINGS WILL KEEP YOU COOL THIS SUMMER!

Monday 23 Full Moon Paddle. Paddles, kayaks & life jackets provided. $35. Parking: $7 or free for Regional Parks members. 8:30–10 p.m. Riverfront Regional Park. 7821 Eastside Rd., Healdsburg. Space limited. Register: tinyurl.com/nvt9mrjx.

Thursday 26 FREE Summer Night on the Green Concert. Featuring Southbound

playing southern rock. COVID-19 guidelines followed. Farmers’ market: 5 p.m. Music: 6 p.m. Windsor Town Green. Windsor. townofwindsor.com.

Saturday 28 FREE Grupo Folklórico Quetzalen.

Mexican folk dance performance.

6–7 p.m. Old Courthouse Square. 600 4th St., Santa Rosa. downtownsantarosa.org. www.sonomafamilylife.com

Save

$500

*

on a HVAC system, purchases over $1,500.

CALL TODAY!

888-915-0142

*Not valid on prior sales. May not be combined with any other promotional offer. Products not available in all areas. Trade Licenses for Transform SR Home Improvement Products LLC (in certain states d/b/a Sears Home Improvement Products) at https://transformhomepro.com/license/ Offer Subject to change without notice. Offer Expires 7/31/2021.

Sears Home Services is a TransformCo business. This is an advertisement. TransformCo shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions in pricing. TransformCo reserves the right to make adjustments to pricing and products offerings for reasons including but not limited to changing market conditions. ©2021 Transform SR Brands LLC, PO Box 522290, Longwood, FL 32752-9963. All Rights Reserved

August 2021

SonomaFamilyLife 31

Humor Break

Don’t Lick the Outlet Funny, Crazy Power Struggles with Kids

By Jessica Guerrieri

M

y best friend texted this morning that all she could get her son to eat for breakfast was a single graham cracker—that was until she broke it in half, rendering it inedible. If I had a dollar for every time I incorrectly cut my children’s food, I’d be able to open my own parents-only hotel. Each room would come with lavender-scented pillows, especially constructed to endure long bouts of parental screaming. In fact, during lockdown my sister-in-law and I had the million-dollar idea to create a Mom Mobile. This traveling minivan would conveniently park in your driveway, where gathered moms could unload their COVID-related grievances until they felt ready to face the next undoubtedly outrageous thing the universe had to throw at them.

It doesn’t take a pandemic to activate a toddler’s or any child’s unreasonable requests. All that’s required is for them to be awake. It helps to know that I’m

32 SonomaFamilyLife

not alone in this struggle. There are hash-tags on social media dedicated to all the ways we are spectacularly failing our kids by doing our darndest to keep them alive. I’m so sorry, darling. You can’t drink from the tube of toothpaste.

More often than not, being a parent of a toddler can feel like being Punk’d or like starring on another hidden-camera reality TV show.

Surely my two-year-old didn’t just heave her body onto the kitchen floor because I wouldn’t allow her to touch raw chicken. But, alas, here I stand trying not to smirk next to my burning fajitas. Last week she wanted to stick her face inside the toilet bowl to go “swimbing” and was inconsolable when I wouldn’t allow her to eat dog food. I wonder if I can find a bedazzled “Mean Mommy” hat somewhere on Etsy.

I thought perhaps these power struggles would lessen with age, but

I’ve found that somehow they’ve gotten more ridiculous and often more complex. For example, my five-year-old is obsessed with spraying her bangs with water to get them out of her face.

She applies it in such a way that she looks like a mini cast member of the Jersey Shore. I’ve tried offering her hair clips or headbands, but she claims they are “too pokey” and the water helps make her hair the right amount of “swishy.” If there was a retort to that argument, it was in none of the parenting books I skimmed.

I often wonder how these seemingly small, insignificant things can manifest as the end of their world.

What I wouldn’t give to go back to a time when my greatest emotional struggle was over a broken graham cracker. But what I try and remind myself (although it can be hard to hear over all the screaming) is that, right then, their world is that graham cracker or tube of toothpaste. If they could find a way to enact a peaceful protest and articulately express why it is paramount that they be allowed to wear socks in the swimming pool, I’m sure they would.

While the inevitable tantrums and meltdowns are draining, children have a way of being unintentionally hilarious.

Their misguided logic can help guide us back to what matters—not that the red cup is superior to the green, or that bananas must never be fully removed from their peel, but rather, our role as parents is to help them make sense of this crazy, mixed-up world. Even when that means using our bodies to shield them from the outlets they so desperately want to lick. ¶ Find Jessica Guerrieri at witandspitup.com and on Instagram @witandspitup.

August 2021 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Classified Marketplace Camps

Parties

COVID LEARNING LOSS IS REAL…

So much learning was erased. We can help bring it back this summer!

Paddle Under the Full Moon

F

or ages, poets, authors, and artists have written about full moon magic. It’s something that the Sonoma County Park’s Full Moon Paddle aims to take advantage of, offering kayaking on the Russian River when la luna is her brightest. On August 23, boaters will begin their journey at the Riverfront Regional Park in Healdsburg at 8:30 p.m. and will paddle through night waters until 10 p.m. Paddles, kayaks, and life jackets will be provided. Registration is $35 and parking is $7 (or free for Regional Parks members). Register at parks.sonomacounty. ca.gov or tinyurl.com/j9ev7bmf. ¶

BOB MINKIN

T Sisters

Singing in Harmony

O

akland siblings Rachel, Erika, and Chloe, otherwise known as the band the T Sisters, are experts at Americana harmonies. Their musical talent even has been noticed by the likes of the Indigo Girls and Amos Lee, both of whom the sisters have musically supported. And now they will be bringing their act to the Sonoma County Farm Trails’ Gravenstein Apple Fair benefit concert. Joining them will be the Beau Beau Trio, playing roots and R&B; the Whiskey Family Band, churning out high-energy bluegrass and rock; and Burnside, playing funk/ rock dance tunes. Besides the live music, there will also be food available from local eateries, such as Fork, Handline, and Mom’s Apple Pie. Concerts will be held on August 14, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., at Ragle Ranch Park in Sebastopol. Admission is $75 with a limited number of $60 tickets available only to Sebastopol residents. Purchase tickets at farmtrails.org/tickets. ¶

www.sonomafamilylife.com

VIRTUAL

BACK TO SCHOOL

FAIR

HERE’S TO A GREAT SCHOOL YEAR

FROM FAMILY LIFE!

Don’t forget to check it out

August 2021

CLICK HERE! SonomaFamilyLife 33