Whatever the reason or the season, we are dedicated to the overall health of your child, every step of the way.
With locations throughout San Diego County and Southern Riverside, it’s easy to find just the right pediatrician for your child. From routine vaccines, well-check visits and everything in between, we are dedicated to providing expert care for newborn babies to collegebound teens. In partnership with Rady Children’s Health Network, our commitment will always be to help you raise healthy, happy kids.
PARENTING In The Digital Age
by Gina Rosenfeld, MD
Technology and smart devices are a part of our kids’ lives, and they’re likely to stay that way. As a doctor and parent, I’ve seen the challenges that come with this digital world.
Our kids are more connected than ever before. Once they get a smart device, they’re not just stuck at home after school. They’re always on their phones and tablets. This is a great tool for staying in touch with friends, teammates, teachers, and coaches, but it also keeps them indoors and exposes them to a lot of stress, anxiety, bullying, and, frankly, too much information.
The biggest challenge is figuring out how to guide and monitor your kids in this ever-changing digital world. Before they start using smartphones, tablets, and other devices, you should do your best to wait as long as possible. Once you do, you need to understand the technology you’re letting your kids use, and then you need to have a serious talk with your kids, understand their maturity level, and make a plan that fits your family’s values. Kids want things right away, but you need to make sure they’re happy and healthy, and then determine when to introduce technology.
Each stage of development has its own rules and consequences. If we set these rules early on and clearly communicate them at their level, our kids are more likely to follow them.
You’re not alone -- let’s tackle this journey together! Even before your little one
gets their own phone or tablet, be their role model. Avoid using your cell phone during meals, homework, or bedtime.
When you’re talking to others, make eye contact and stay focused, not distracted by your phone. Remember, your kids are always watching you and learning from your behavior.
Infants and young kids don’t need technology. They need to interact with people. For kids between 2 and 5, if you do use screens, keep it to an hour a day and make sure it’s educational.
For school-aged kids, don’t let them spend too much time on screens. Set rules and limits. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says no more than two hours a day. Encourage them to play outside, and don’t link technology to rewards. Don’t keep technology in the bedroom; supervise them so they don’t see inappropriate stuff.
The trickier challenge is with tweens and teens. Before they get their smartphones, make sure you have clear rules and consequences. Set expectations, set boundaries, make routines, and set guidelines. You can let them use certain websites, apps, and social media, but you can also restrict access to others. Make sure they know how to behave online and set their privacy settings. Also, teach them about your family’s beliefs, values, and rules.
It’s important to remember and to remind tweens and teens that smartphones are a privilege, and it’s okay to keep an eye on how much time they spend on them and what they’re up to online. Here are some practical tips:
• Make sure homework, studying, chores, and fun activities come first, not screen time.
• Keep charging devices outside the bedroom and make sure everyone is phone-free during meals and family time.
• It’s not just a right, it’s a necessity to know what websites and apps your kids are using and approve of them.
• Sharing personal info online should be a no-no, and definitely not sharing naked photos.
I could go on and on, but this should give you a good starting point. Parenting can be tough, and technology can make it even harder. But you’ve got the experience and wisdom to handle these challenges.
Happy Summer and Happy Parenting!
Gina Rosenfeld, MD Pediatrician and mom
Dr. Rosenfeld is a pediatrician practicing in San Marcos, and is the mother of two boys.
SanDiegofamily.com
Get to know SanDiegoFamily.com, where you’ll discover these articles and a plethora of awesomeness for parents.
Things to Do: Seasonal Happenings
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Dive into discovery at Birch Aquarium’s newest exhibit, the Adam R. Scripps Living Seas Gallery. Families will be amazed by the vibrant ecosystems of the Pacific, from the hidden world of a Giant Pacific
Octopus to the bustling life of a coral reef and the daily research happening at Scripps Pier. This immersive new experience invites guests of all ages to explore the wonders of our ocean planet in an awe-inspiring way. Enter for your chance to win a four-pack of passes to Birch Aquarium and experience the new Living Seas with your family. Contest ends Aug. 28, 2025.
Soar into adventure with the X-11 Stratosphere drone! With a built-in camera for capturing sharp photos and realtime video, this highflying gadget lets your family see the world from a new angle. Enter for your chance to win an X-11 Stratosphere drone for the family. Contest ends Aug. 28, 2025.
Editorial
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Goodbye Summer, Hello School
Summer is winding down, and most San Diego County schools will be open by mid-August. While the break has flown by, there’s still time for a few final adventures! Turn to page 22 for fun ideas to make the most of the last summer days. Celebrate National S’mores Day on August 10—or anytime! Visit www.sandiegofamily.com and put “smores” in the search bar for yummy ways to enjoy this classic treat. Also, flip through San Diego Family’s Out & About with Kids guide (on our website) for even more local activities.
Kids may feel nervous about school as their first day approaches. To ease the transition, check out our back-to-school checklist on page 14. Don’t forget to snap a photo on the first day! Measuring your child’s height is another great way to mark the start of a new academic year.
As kids head back to school, it might be the perfect time for you to consider going back, too. Whether you’re looking to sharpen existing skills or explore a new career, now’s a great time to start. On page 20, San Diego Family highlights educational opportunities for adults ready to learn something new. Think about your hobbies and passions—could they lead to a fulfilling career? Whether part-time or full-time, decide what works best for your lifestyle.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended the Special Needs Resource Foundation’s All-Inclusive Day of Play on July 11. The event was a tremendous success, offering valuable resources to families in the special needs community and tons of fun for kids!
Wishing you a memorable end to summer—and a smooth start to the new school year. Hug your loved ones; this year will be a whirlwind!
sharon@sandiegofamily.com
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Mission Statement
To enhance the quality of life for San Diego County families by providing information and resources that support the importance and pleasure of parenting.
Our San Diego Families
Continuing the summer fun theme from last month, thank you to these families who shared their photos with us.
Tommy Vanderby of Encinitas and son Crew (22 mos.) at the beach during their family vacation in Maui. They made sand castles after snorkeling and looking for sea turtles!
lazy
Jacob Andrews of Spring Valley introduced daughter Ellie (now 2 mos.) to the beach for the first time when she was only 2.5 weeks old; here they are in Coronado—such cute little sandy feet!
Ahh,
summer days! Belle Basa of Rancho Peñasquitos floats in the pool with grandsons Quinn (6) and Andre (5).
Wren (16 mos.) of Encinitas experiences a splash pad for the first time at San Elijo Park. Her favorite place to be is outside exploring nature!
“We took a guided fly-fishing trip to Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park,” says Sha. “Our guides taught the adults to fly fish and the kids to spin fish. It was an unforgettable trip!”
Silas (13) of Escondido loves to boogie board whenever he can. One of his favorite spots to go is Tamarack Beach (Carlsbad) because of the shore break.
Beckham (5) of Encinitas loves building sandcastles and looking for sand crabs at Oceanside Pier.
Early morning was a great time for Ahdi (8) and Vahn (6) of 4S Ranch to splash around and enjoy the pools during their family vacation at the Grand Wailea Resort in Maui.
Here is the Wit Family of Rancho Peñasquitos on vacation in Colorado (l –r): Gabe (10), Sam (Grandpa), Sammy (11), Brooklyn (8), Sha (Mom) and Sam (Dad).
Short & Sweet
New Phone-Free School Policy
In collaboration with student leaders, staff, the Parent Teacher Association and a district survey, the San Diego Unified School District has approved a phonefree school day policy for the new school year, which starts Aug. 11. The policy establishes guidelines designed to reduce interruptions to learning, foster in-person connection and support healthy boundaries with technology. California state law requires all public school districts to adopt policies by July 1, 2026, making San Diego Unified an early adopter. Read more about the new policy at www.sandiegounified.org/ PhoneFreePolicy
More Than Meets the Eye
San Diego Family Magazine Publisher Sharon Bay and Managing Editor Lisa Gipson (pictured here) recently checked out the new Museum of Illusions in San Diego’s Gaslamp District downtown. The immersive museum (designed for all ages) features exhibits such as a vortex tunnel, infinity room and anti-gravity installations. Unique to the San Diego location are a surf-themed reverse room and an opportunity to “walk on” the façade of Old Town’s iconic Colorado House.
Get ready for plenty of fun photo ops! Your family will be awed by mind-bending optical illusions, 3D holograms and interactive exhibits in the 10,000-square-foot, multi-level space. Purchase tickets at www.moisandiego.com.
School Vaccines
Are your child’s required school vaccinations up to date? If you’re not sure what the California law states or have questions, get information from San Diego County Health & Human Services Agency at www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/phs/ immunization_branch/School_Laws.html.
Free Summer Meals
Feeding San Diego partners with local sites to provide no-cost summer meals and groceries to families who need them. This is the last month to obtain meal boxes from the Summer Food Service Program, and groceries through summer pantries (some are year-round) and Parks After Dark events. Find details, dates and locations at www.feedingsandiego.org/where-to-find-free-summer-meals.
Editor’s Picks
Brain Quest Phonics Workbooks make literacy development fun with engaging activities that help kids learn and increase writing skills, letter sounds and pronunciation, high-frequency words, and more. Books available for pre-K, kindergarten, first and second grade. www.brainquest.com
Great Big Schoolhouse by Richard Scarry has been easing children into the first day of school for decades as they follow the adventures of Huckle Cat, Lowly Worm and all their friends. Kids learn colors, measurement, numbers, shapes, seasons, tons of vocabulary and more with engaging illustrations and entertaining, relatable Busytown scenarios.
Natural Watercolor Paint Making by Joanne Green offers a stepby-step introduction to making botanical watercolor paints with flowers, vegetables and leaves. Perfect for environmentally conscious families who want to learn the sensory-rich, unhurried process of harvesting, making and mixing paint colors.
New Chula Vista Bayfront Shuttle
Electric vans now provide free transportation to the Chula Vista Bayfront. Two routes offer daily service from 9 am to 6 pm with stops at E Street Transit Center, downtown Chula Vista, Gaylord Pacific Resort, Living Coast Discovery Center and more. See Blue Line and Green Line route details at www.chulavistaca.gov/ departments/economicdevelopment/chulavista-bayfront-shuttle.
www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/out-and-about
Janeen Lewis
Countdown to a New School Year
Tips for a successful launch
Before the magic of summer screeches to a halt and the new school year begins, tackle back-toschool errands and tasks gradually to reduce lastminute stress. Use this checklist to start kids out on the right foot and launch them into a great year.
Discuss the upcoming school year. Are the kids excited or nervous? Listen closely to shared feelings and help set goals for the coming year.
Purge last year’s items. Clean out backpacks (if you haven’t already) and toss or recycle worn out or outgrown items. Donate gently used items.
Schedule playdates. If your child is starting a new school or feels uncertain about school, try to connect with other kids in the neighborhood or school community. If your child has already been assigned to a class, seek out families whose children are also in the class.
Read daily. Keep minds sharp by joining a summer reading program—or just read on your own. Whether at bedtime or another time, establish a family routine.
Make health appointments. Schedule eye exams, teeth cleaning, immunizations and sports physicals.
Plan for the unexpected. Designate emergency contacts to add to your child’s school forms (ask permission before writing anyone’s name down). Decide how to manage sick days if your children can’t stay home alone.
Arrange a family command center. Make space for backpacks, lunch bags, athletic bags and shoes. Install organizers, hooks and a communication board so reminders and messages are in one place. Add a calendar or put a magnetic wipe off calendar on the fridge.
Create a homework station. Include a caddy or organizer with supplies kids might need for homework, such as pencils,
erasers, markers, colored pencils, wipe-off board and markers, scissors, highlighters, notebook paper, graphing paper and calculator.
Establish school routines. Don’t wait until the first day of school to enforce a reasonable bedtime. Have kids start going to bed earlier and getting up earlier at least a week before school starts.
Go shopping. New clothes and supplies are motivating and fun. Compare pricing, shop during off hours when stores are less crowded and make it a special day by following with lunch out or a treat.
Practice. Have young children open and close lunch containers, zip sweatshirts and tie shoes so there is some level of independence. If your kids will take the bus, drive the route so they know what to expect.
Organize key areas. Designate a place for lunch and breakfast items in the refrigerator and pantry. Organize the laundry room with baskets for each child. Keep a container in your car with items for hectic days of driving between school, work and afterschool activities. Consider including snacks, bottled water, wipes, hand sanitizer, hair ties, etc.
The Night Before
• Prep before bedtime. Make lunches and organize backpacks and supplies. Have kids lay out their clothes.
• Discuss plans for the day. Talk about afterschool transportation and remind kids of any planned afterschool activities.
The Big First Day
• Take a photo. Consider including a sign with the year and date. Email it to editor@sandiegofamily.com by Monday, Aug. 11 for possible inclusion in the September issue of San Diego Family Magazine. Put “first day of school” in the subject line.
• Find out when Back-to-School Night is so you can meet teachers, check out your kids’ classrooms and hear about curriculum. Mark your calendar now.
• Celebrate! Grab an afterschool treat, have a playdate with friends or “go big” with a fun weekend getaway before homework and afterschool activities dominate the family schedule.
Going back to school is often fraught with mixed emotions, but it can be a blast! Model an upbeat, encouraging attitude and see how it impacts your kids.
Janeen Lewis is a writer, first-grade teacher and mom. A nationally published writer, she has been in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teacher Tales.
Amanda Cavallari
Learning
Outside the Box: Education options to fit your family
Microschool
Charter Schools
Cost: Free
Charter schools are tuition-free public schools that operate independently from a traditional school district, but are required to follow state laws and academic standards. More flexibility often means more innovative teaching methods. Programs may be in person, virtual or hybrid.
As families seek more flexible approaches to educating their kids, alternatives to traditional schooling have become more popular. From modernday homeschooling to worldschooling, these options offer tailored experiences that prioritize a child’s learning style, pace and special interests. Alternatives to traditional classrooms can also offer individualized attention, emotional support and access to more hands-on learning experiences. By opting for an alternative learning approach, a family can foster their child’s creativity and curiosity by adapting their education format to better fit their lifestyle and values, exactly how they see fit. Here is a variety of education options to fit your family, some of which fall under the homeschooling umbrella.
Charter schools offer a level of personalization that benefits all students. Instead of cutting enrichment experiences like art, music, physical education, and project-based learning, charter schools often embrace and prioritize these opportunities, helping students develop holistically—not just academically. ~Stacy Maxon, parent
Clairemont Mesa parent Stacy Maxon chose to enroll her child in a charter school because she wanted a more individualized program to fit her son’s unique learning style. “My child’s favorite thing is being involved in the planning of his learning,” says Maxon. “It allows him to feel empowered and excited about his education, and helps me know what he’s interested in.”
According to Maxon, charter school educators focus on the whole child (not just test scores), creating an environment where students can thrive.
Microschools
Cost: Varies
When the pandemic hit, Marisa Donnelly of Bay Park didn’t want her stepson to miss out on a formal education, so she opened a
Photo
courtesy of Marisa Donnelly
microschool called Miss Donnelly’s Daily Apple, which served teens at the time, but now serves students in grades K–5. Microschools are small learning environments with a studentteacher ratio of no more than 12:1. They typically provide necessary curriculum and offer frequent field trips and activities.
“Microschooling focuses on multisensory and hands-on support for students with learning disabilities, individualization of curriculum… and meaningful relationships,” says Donnelly. “As I align programming with state standards, I have the freedom to explore different ways of teaching (kinesthetic, visual, etc.) that help students engage in their own ways.” To learn more, visit www.donnellydailyapple.com/ san-diego-microschool or @ donnellydailyapple.
Because my microschool is small, I get to know each of my students and provide instruction that meets them where they are. I can shift learning when something isn’t working.
~Marisa Donnelly, educator at Miss Donnelly’s Daily Apple in Bay Park
Forest Schools
Cost: Varies Forest school, which takes place in a natural outdoor environment (usually a forest or wooded area), uses the Reggio Emilio Approach to learning and includes activities guided by the interests and curiosity of the students, rather than a fixed curriculum. It is a nature-based
another credentialed educator. They encourage exploration, creativity and independence, but all of her students were also reading by the end of the school year.
“We do literacy lessons in between explorations, and can pivot when needed,” Brill says. “If students have a lot of energy, we focus on the trails, if students are interested in a particular subject matter, we spend more time exploring that.”
program, but includes writing, reading and math. Forest schools typically serve pre-K through first grade, but teachers move up with students year after year, so they would be serving older kids within a couple years.
We build shelters, climb trees, identify plants and animals, and forage for natural items to create tasty beverages and snacks. We bring journals and fill them with thoughts, pictures, dictations and anything else that inspires us. ~Nikki Brill, educator at Waves and Woodlands Forest School in Encinitas
Nikki Brill of San Marcos was the lead kindergarten teacher for five years at a popular forest school before cofounding Waves and Woodlands with
Forest School Learning Pod
Brill believes forest schools are important for not only physical health, but also building social skills through teamwork and collaboration, assessing and managing risks, and fostering confidence and emotional resilience. Waves and Woodlands (which also has a location in the Vista area) is currently accepting enrollment for ages 3 through first grade. School starts Sept. 2 and runs through June. Learn more on IG @ waves_and_woodlands.
Learning Pods
Cost: Varies (some free)
A learning pod is a small group (3–10 students in the same grade) that meets consistently to supplement an online or homeschool program, offer tutoring, or even replace traditional schooling if state standards are met. They vary in structure and can be taught by a parent,
Photo courtesy of Amanda Carrillo
Photo courtesy of Nikki Brill
tutor or teacher, but offer a flexible and personalized learning experience.
One of the benefits of pod learning is the tight knit community the children are part of. They don’t follow a strict curriculum with dozens of students in one classroom. They engage in personalized learning…express their opinions and personalities within their small peer group. ~Amanda Carrillo, parent and educator
Amanda Carrillo of North Park is the founder of The Mindful Ones homeschool pod. They meet two days a week, for five hours a day. There is time for student-led play as well as structured, engaging lessons in language arts, mathematics, science, geography, art, nature, cooking and yoga. While the students meet in a home setting, they are also taken to local parks, museums, beaches, grocery stores and other places where learning can occur. “In a way, the whole of San Diego is used as our classroom,” she says.
Want to start a learning pod? Read our article “Learning Pods 101” for great tips and information: www.sandiegofamily.com/resources/ education-directory/learning-pod-tips.
Homeschool Cooperatives (co-ops)
Cost: Free
A homeschool cooperative is a group of homeschooling families who work together to support and provide enrichment to their children. There are many ways a cooperative can work, but often parents share responsibilities of teaching or leading activities for the entire group.
Nature Nurture Playhouse, similar to other co-ops in San Diego County, consists of homeschool students of varying ages and parents/guardians participating in activities one to five days a week. Consistency in a co-op is important to learning, as fostering healthy relationships and friendships is key to success.
Homeschool Cooperative
Jill Kelley of Coronado appreciates the collaboration and community a co-op provides, as they can meet in parks, museums, gardens—anywhere a group can gather and learn. “Co-ops are flexible in the way we approach learning,” she says. “This is the beauty of a co-op; it is fluid and we can pivot [as needed].”
There is a certain magic that happens when children are ready to learn. The older ones learn how to lead and assist the younger ones… parents help with questions and often provide their own experiences, which adds to the diverse understanding of the topic. ~Jill Kelley, parent
Worldschooling
Cost: Travel expenses
Worldschooling is an educational approach that utilizes real-world experiences as tools for learning. Students learn about a variety of environments and cultures through travel, speaking with people from different countries and learning new languages. It’s using the world as the classroom. Children learn science, social studies, foreign languages, math, reading and arts while exploring with their families.
Learning…doesn’t follow a onesize-fits-all model. Whether we’re exploring the volcanoes of Hawaii, visiting a dairy farm in the Central Valley, learning from a family in a different part of the world or hiking nature trails in San Diego, the experiences are vivid and meaningful. ~Neha Chhabra, parent
When exploring educational options for her son, Neha Chhabra of San Diego’s East County knew that a traditional classroom setting would not be the best fit. She began worldschooling to provide him with personal, hands-on, context-rich learning.
“Some families travel full-time, while others root themselves in one place and explore the world through community, nature or even virtual connections,” says Chhabra. “For us, it’s about raising curious, adaptive world citizens who see learning as something that happens everywhere— not just within four walls.”
Chhabra also runs a gameschool group, which is the practice of using games—board games, card games, dice games, role-playing-games, and even active outdoor games—as tools for learning. “Instead of worksheets or lectures, children learn concepts like math, reading, science and history by
Photo courtesy of Jill Kelley
immersing themselves in games that naturally teach these skills,” she says. Find her on IG @diceanddiscover.
Private Schools
Cost: Varies
According to the San Diego Consortium of Independent and Private Schools, accredited private schools offer an academically rich learning environment that encourages innovation. Unlike public schools, they are governed by their own board of trustees and are self-funded by tuition, philanthropic contributions and endowment funding.
Some private schools offer religious education, arts-focused programs, rigorous academics or unique teaching philosophies. Depending on enrollment and class sizes, students may have more freedom for creativity and personalized learning.
When my child attended private school, I appreciated the focus on kids having breaks to move around and play. It’s really important in helping develop a love of learning. I also liked the small class sizes, two full-time teachers in each classroom, and that the class had students ages 5–7. ~Amanda D., parent in Downtown San Diego
To explore educational alternatives in San Diego, start by searching local Facebook groups in the topic you’re interested. Once you’ve joined a group, seasoned parents can offer insightful information. v
For unadulterated information and raw conversations about homeschooling, check out the podcast “Homeschool Moms Unfiltered.” Amanda D. of San Diego speaks as an aggressive academic homeschooler with her co-host Meagan, a parent who practices unschooling (an educational philosophy that follows a child’s curiosity and learning preferences).
Amanda Cavallari is a lifestyle writer residing in San Diego.
Programs
Pam Molnar
New Career in
a
Year
8 ideas for moms going back to school
When kids return to school, it’s a great opportunity to consider what to do next. For moms who have been out of the workforce for several years, a lot has changed, which can be intimidating. If you’ve been contemplating a new career, consider the options below that offer flexible learning (often at a reasonable price) and can launch you into a new industry in about a year.
1. Real Estate Agent:
Becoming a real estate agent is one of the more affordable education pathways and can be achieved in as little as a few months. The California Department of Real Estate requires 135 hours of pre-licensing classes, which are available through accredited in-person or online programs, including local community colleges. After passing state exams and finding a broker to work with, participants are ready to finalize the licensing application. Once established, San Diego real estate agents make an average of $91,087 annually, reports ZipRecruiter. Just know that realtors often work evenings and weekends.
2. Cosmetologist:
A California cosmetology license allows people to work as hair stylists, makeup artists, nail technicians and estheticians. California requires 1,000 course hours in a board-approved program, which are offered at private schools (such as Bellus Academy and Paul Mitchell) or San Diego City College. Schedules are often flexible and can be completed in one to two years. The exam approval and scheduling process can take up to 12 weeks. Once licensed, renewal is required every two years. Becoming (only) a nail technician requires less money and time. Cosmetologists in San Diego can expect to make an average of $44,920 per year, according to ZipRecruiter.
3. Radiology Tech:
People with an Associate of Science degree in Radiologic Technology can perform diagnostic imaging exams (X-rays, CT scans and MRIs) and administer radiation treatments. Mesa College (Clairemont Mesa) offers a two-year program, but has prerequisites that must be completed five years prior to enrolling. Following classes, it’s necessary to get certified and licensed. According to ZipRecruiter, Radiologic Technologists in San Diego make about $101,000 annually.
4. Medical Assistant:
Becoming a medical assistant provides a foot in the door for those interested in the medical field. A medical assistant performs administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals or physician’s offices. The career outlook is 15 percent growth over the next 10 years, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A number of local schools offer medical assistant certification (including Poway Adult School), which can be completed in 12 weeks to two years, depending on specialty or focus. The median salary in San Diego for medical assistants is $45,000–$55,000, depending on several factors.
5. Dental Hygienist: The
amount of time it takes to become a licensed dental hygienist depends on previous education. Both twoand four-year degrees are accepted in the industry. Participants must complete a CODA (Commission on Dental Accreditation)-approved dental hygiene program, pass three national and state exams and apply for a license. Local schools with accredited programs include Southwestern College and Concorde Career Colleges. The median salary of a dental hygienist in San Diego is $82,100 according to Salary.com.
6. Dog Groomer:
career path for people who love animals! Dog grooming school (such as San Diego Grooming Academy in North Park) teaches safety, breed standards, grooming styles, and proper use of tools in a hands-on learning environment. Certification can be obtained in a matter of weeks. According to Salary.com, pet groomers in San Diego make an average of $41,802. Since dog groomers often split pay with shop owners, there is greater income potential for those who are self-employed.
7. Bookkeeper: also known as an accounts payable clerk or accounting specialist, assists business owners with general accounting procedures, payroll and tax preparation under the assistance of a CPA. Certification is available through several local colleges and online programs, which prepare participants for the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) exam. Completion takes between several months to two years, because on-the-job training is part of the process. According to Indeed.com, a bookkeeper’s average annual salary in San Diego is $55,905.
8. Computer and Internetworking Technologies:
There are many opportunities in this field that often require less than a year for certification. The most common positions are in network design, security and management; these are the people who set up and maintain large computer systems and networks. Most local colleges offer a variety of technology and cyber security classes; participants just need to figure out which track to pursue. Depending on certification and job title, expect to make an average of $36,000 - $86,437 annually. v
Pam Molnar is a writer and mother of three. With the help of her supportive husband and family, she went back to school and started a new career in less than a year.
Rebecca Hastings
Savoring Summer
How to turn ordinary evenings into magical moments
As August winds down, families find themselves caught between carefree days of summer and looming new school year routines. Before packing backpacks and setting alarms, there’s still time to soak in the golden evenings of summer vacation. These final nights offer an opportunity to slow down, reconnect and create memories together. Here are magical ways to savor these moments.
Backyard Camping Adventure
Transform your backyard into a mini campground. Pitch a tent, lay out sleeping bags, and enjoy an evening outdoors. Make s’mores over a fire pit (or in the microwave), listen to night sounds and use a stargazing app to spot constellations. Lay on blankets and watch for shooting stars. When you see one, encourage kids to make a wish for the new school year—maybe it will be making new friends, learning a new subject or skill, or making a positive impact. For added fun, make shadow puppets with a flashlight or write secret notes to read by lantern light. A mini escape from usual family activity fosters closeness without leaving home.
Sunset Picnic with Storytelling
Pack a picnic and head to a scenic spot—San Diego is full of fun local parks, beaches and lakes. As the sun sets, take turns sharing your favorite summer memories or telling silly madeup stories. Capture the moment with a family selfie.
To elevate the experience, use a small speaker to play relaxing acoustic music or have a themed picnic with foods inspired by summer travels. You could even make up a collaborative story— each family member adds a sentence, creating a fun and often hilarious tale.
Glow-in-the-Dark Games
Kick classic outdoor games up a notch by adding glow sticks! Hide glow bracelets for a nighttime scavenger hunt, play glow stick ring toss, or make
a bowling game by putting glow sticks inside water bottles. Have a glow-inthe-dark dance party (or play freeze dance) with a disco ball light.
Don’t miss free Parks After Dark events on August 7, 8 and 9 from 5 –8 pm at City Heights, Linda Vista, Memorial and Skyline Hills Recreation Centers. Learn more at www.sandiegoparksfoundation.org/ parks-after-dark.
Outdoor Movie Night
Set up a DIY movie theater in the backyard with a projector and a sheet (or use a laptop). Pick a family favorite movie, pop popcorn, and snuggle under blankets while enjoying a movie under the night sky. Make it more special by choosing a theme such as “Disney Under the Stars” or “Classic Summer Hits” and include themed snacks and activities.
Get fun movie theme ideas in our article “Make Movie Night Magic with Kids: Fun Family Themes” at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/ best-of-family-fun/best-family-movienights-at-home.
Nighttime Nature Walk
Turn an evening walk into a nighttime flashlight adventure: Listen for various night sounds such as crickets and owls. Take a journal to jot down observations or draw interesting tree shapes against the night sky. This peaceful activity helps children slow down and appreciate nature in a new way.
Family Bucket List Wrap-Up
Take another look at your family’s summer bucket list. Is there an activity you haven’t done that you really want to do together? Whether it’s making homemade ice cream, going to a drive-in movie, or going for a night swim, take time to enjoy one more quintessential summer activity before school starts.
Reminisce and Look Forward
Spend an evening looking through photos and videos from the summer. Have everyone share their favorite
memory. For a creative spin, make a scrapbook or journal with ticket stubs, pressed flowers, or notes about what you did. Then, transition into excitement for the upcoming season by making a “Fall Fun List” together.
Find directions to create an adorable DIY Miniature Book that kids can write summer memories in at www.sandiegofamily.com/for-the-kids/ crafts-for-kids/mini-book.
Late-Night Dessert
End the summer on a sweet note by going for a late-night ice cream run or making banana splits at home. Ice cream sandwiches, s’mores dip, or homemade milkshakes are delicious alternatives.
Water Play Under the Stars
Set up a nighttime water balloon fight, run through the sprinklers or play water limbo with a hose—and have a blast by moonlight! Or fill a kiddie pool with water and a few glow sticks and dip your toes in while the kids splash around.
The last evenings of summer don’t need to be stressful. With a little creativity and planning, families can savor the moments together and carry their warmth into the season ahead. Before the school bells ring and schedules fill, take a deep breath, step outside and make some final summer magic together. v
Rebecca Hastings is a freelance writer.
Monday–Friday, 8 AM–1 PM,
Did you miss our Summer Bingo game last month, featuring fun, unplugged activities for families? Access the free printable at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/ seasonal-happenings/free-printablesummer-bingo.
Family
Still looking for last month’s events? Check out the digital edition of our July issue at SanDiegoFamily.com
Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.
friday
| 1
FREE Ramona Country Fair. Amusement rides, carnival games, live music and more. Today, 4–11 pm, tomorrow & Sunday, 11 am–11 pm. Ramona Outdoor Community Center, 421 Aqua Ln. www.ramonacountryfair.com
Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventure Cruises. Search for gray whales, blue whales, minke whales and more. Fri.–Mon. through Sept. 1, 9 am–1 pm. $76–$83; 3 & under free. Pier Two 970 N. Harbor Dr. www.cityexperiences.com
FREE Lemon Festival
Third Avenue will be transformed into a lemon-filled oasis offering lemon-themed treats, live music, zesty photo ops, arts and crafts vendors, a kids zone and more. Aug. 16, 11 am–6 pm. Downtown Chula Vista. www.thirdavenuevillage.com
FREE Latin American Festival. Authentic folk art, crafts, entertainment and more. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–8 pm; Aug. 3, 10 am–6 pm. Bazaar del Mundo, Old Town. www.bazaardelmundo.com
FREE Movies in the Park: “Inside Out 2.” Movie begins 15 minutes before sundown. San Carlos Rec Center, 6445 Lake Badin Ave. Full schedule: www.sandiegoparksfoundation.org
FREE TGIF Concerts in the Park. 4–9 pm. Tonight & Aug. 8 at Calavera Hills, 2997 Glasgow Dr. & Aug. 15 & 22 at Alga Norte Community Park, 6565 Alicante Rd. www.carlsbadca.gov/tgif
Top Secret: Inside the High-Stakes World of Naval Intelligence. Go inside Midway’s restored Carrier Intelligence Center, where real air combat missions were planned. Daily, 10 am–5 pm. Included with admission. $26–$39. USS Midway Museum, 910 N. Harbor Dr. www.midway.org
Living Seas at Birch Aquarium. Venture into the hidden realm of a Giant Pacific Octopus, explore life beneath Scripps Pier and marvel at a vibrant coral reef. 9 am–5 pm. $24.95–$29.95; 2 & under free. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. www.aquarium.ucsd.edu
Photo courtesy of Lemon Festival
FREE Summer Movies in the Park: “Despicable Me 4.” Azalea Rec. Center & Los Peñasquitos County Preserve. Full schedule: www.summermoviesinthepark.com
FREE Live Music at Del Mar Highlands Town Center. Fridays through Sept. 26, 6–9 pm. 12925 El Camino Real. www.delmarhighlandstowncenter.com
FREE Clairemont Town Square Summer Concerts. Fridays through Aug. 15, 6–9 pm. Clairemont Town Square, 4705 Clairemont Dr. www.clairemonttownsquare.com
Night Fishing at Lake Poway. Fri.–Sat. in Aug., 4–11:30 pm. Adults, $7; youth $3. 14644 Lake Poway Rd. www.poway.org
FREE Summer Reading Program: Level Up at Your Library. Rediscover the joy of gaming and join this all-ages reading adventure. Through Aug. 31. Register: www.sandiego.gov/public-library/ kidsandteens/summerreading
Nighttime Zoo. Explore the Zoo at night and enjoy a variety of family-friendly entertainment. Through Aug. 10. San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park. www.sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org
Blue Star Museums offers FREE admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve. Through Sept. 1. Details: www.arts.gov/ initiatives/blue-star-museums
Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience. A unique blend of unusual aquaria, diverse jelly species and immersive media. Included with admission. SeaWorld, 500 Sea World Dr. www.seaworldsandiego.com
Summer Concert Series. 7–9 pm. $10. The Wood House in Woodland Park, 1148 Rock Springs Rd., San Marcos. www.san-marcos.net
Sesame Summer Splash. Sun-sational events. Open daily through Sept. 1, 10 am–6 pm. Sesame Place, 2052 Entertainment Cir., Chula Vista. Tickets: www.sesameplace.com
Water Ways. Manipulate and play with the flow of water. Sun., 12:30–4:30 pm & Tues.–Sat., 9:30 am–4:30 pm (closed Mondays). Included with admission. $14.
Del Mar Racetrack. Gates open at 11:30 am. Thurs.-Sun. through Sept. 8. 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.delmarracing.com
LEGO World Parade. Floats, characters and entertainers inspired by your favorite LEGO themes. Daily through Aug. 9. Included with admission. One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. www.legoland.com
The Wave Waterpark. Slide tower, Flow Rider, riptide slide and more. Daily through Aug. 10, then weekends through Sept. 28. $14–$24. 101 Wave Dr., Vista. www.thewavewaterpark.com
Shark Summer at Birch
Aquarium. Shark exploration stations, shark feedings and more. Daily through Aug. 10, 9 am–5 pm. Included with admission. $24.95–$29.95; 2 & under free. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. https://aquarium.ucsd.edu/events/sharksummer
FREE Point Loma Summer Concerts. Tonight & Aug. 8. Concert starts at 5:30 pm; main entertainers at 6:30 pm. Point Loma Park, 1049 Catalina Blvd. www.pointlomasummerconcerts.org/
Calendar • August
Roar & Snore Safari. Experience a sleepover and observe the nighttime activities of wildlife and morning wildlife presentations. Today, tomorrow, Aug. 7–8, 14–16, 22 & 30–31. Starting at $160. Safari Park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido. www.sdzsafaripark.org
Padres Home Games. Today through Aug. 3 vs. Cardinals, Aug. 8–10 vs. Red Sox, Aug. 18–21 vs. Giants & Aug. 22–24 vs. Dodgers. Petco Park. Tickets: www.padres.com
FREE First Friday La Jolla Art Walk. Wander through galleries and pop-up artists. 4–7 pm. 1205 Prospect St. www.lajollabythesea.com
San Diego FC Soccer Team. Today, Aug. 5, 9, 17 & 31. Snapdragon Stadium, 2101 Stadium Way. Tickets: www.sandiegofc.com
saturday | 2
Movies on the Beach. Tonight, Aug. 9, 17, 23 & 30. 8 pm. $25.75. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave. www.hoteldel.com
FREE Summer Movies in the Park. 6:30–9:45 pm. Tonight: “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” at Community Park, 13094 Civic Ctr. Dr. & Aug. 16: “The Sound of Music” at Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Dr. www.poway.org
Sunset Luau
FREE ArtWalk Liberty Station. Featuring a wide range of artistic mediums such as paintings, photography, glass and ceramic art, jewelry and sculpture. Today, 10 am–6 pm & tomorrow, 10 am–5 pm. Ingram Plaza, 2751 Dewey Rd. www.artwalksandiego.org
Summer Jams on Deck. Concerts are free. Saturdays, 5–7 pm through Oct. 11. Park entrance fee, $10. Santee Lakes Deck between Lakes 4 & 5, 9310 Fanita Pkwy. www.santeelakes.com
Summer Spectacular Concert Series. Featuring R&B, hip-hop and rap hits from the ‘90s and early 2000s. Saturdays through Aug. 23, 6 pm. Included with admission. SeaWorld, Bayside Amphitheater, 500 Sea World Dr. www.seaworldsandiego.com
FREE Twilight Trek: A Hike Under the Stars. Astronomy presentation, then a 4-mile hike along the Cerro de Las Posas Ridgeline trails. 6:30–9:30 pm. Double Peak Park, 900 Double Peak Dr., San Marcos. www.san-marcos.net
Family-friendly event with leis, island music, dance entertainment and more. Thursdays through Aug. 28, 6–9 pm. Catamaran Resort Hotel, 3999 Mission Blvd. Tickets: www.catamaranresort.com
FREE Summer on the Rails. Lawn games, kids crafts and more. 9 am–4 pm. Southern California Railway Museum, 2201 S. “A” St., Perris. www.socalrailway.org
Coggan Family Dive-In Movie Night: “Lilo & Stitch.” Watch a movie and float in the pool. 5–8 pm. $10. Coggan Aquatic Center, 800 Nautilus St. www.cogganaquatics.org
Stories of Us: Buwan ng Wika. A bilingual story time in Tagalog. 10 am. Included with admission. $14. Children’s Museum of Discovery, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.visitcmod.org
FREE Art Night. Art exhibitions, children’s art workshops and more. 6–8 pm. Held across four locations: City Hall, Encinitas Community Ctr., Encinitas Library and the Pacific View Arts Ctr. Details: www.encinitasca.gov
sunday | 3
Padres KidsFest. Bounce houses, inflatables, games, face painters, balloon artists and more. Padres pillowcase giveaway. 11:10 am. Included with admission. Petco Park. Tickets: www.padres.com
FREE Summer Concert Series. 5:30–7 pm. Lake Poway, 14644 Lake Poway Rd. (parking $10). www.poway.org
FREE Art for All. Hands-on art making and more. 12–2 pm. Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way. www.oma-online.org
FREE Spreckels Organ Society Concerts. Sundays, 2–3 pm. Pavilion-Pan American Pl., Balboa Park. www.spreckelsorgan.org
FREE Coronado Summer Concert Series. Sundays through Aug. 31, 6 pm. Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave. https://coronadoconcert.com
monday | 4
National Parks Fee- FREE Days. All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. https://home.nps.gov/ planyourvisit/passes.htm#free_entrance_ days
FREE Spreckels Organ Society’s International Summer Organ Festival. Mondays through Sept. 1, 7:30 pm. 2125 Pan American Rd. www.spreckelsorgan.org
tuesday
| 5
FREE Twilight in the Park Concert. Tues., Wed. & Thurs. through Aug. 28, 6:30–7:30 pm. Spreckels Organ Pavilion, Balboa Park. www.balboapark.org/twilightin-the-park-concert
Residents FREE Days at Balboa Park. Park museums offer free admission Tuesdays on a rotating basis throughout the month to residents of the City and County of San Diego, and to active military personnel and their dependents. Schedule: www.balboapark.org
FREE National Night Out. This annual event promotes law enforcementcommunity partnership and neighborhood camaraderie. 5–7 pm. Vista Civic Ctr., 200 Civic Ctr. Dr. www.vista.gov
thursday
| 7
FREE Party at the Pop Jet at Del Mar Highlands. Family-friendly entertainment. 10 am. 12925 El Camino Real. www.delmarhighlandstowncenter.com
UltraStar Cinemas Discount Thursdays. 50% off all movie tickets and popcorn. 7510 Hazard Center Dr. Showtimes: www.ultrastarmovies.com
SeaWorld Summer Spectacular
Shows, live music and dazzling fireworks spectacular. Daily through Aug. 10, then weekends through Sept. 1. SeaWorld, 500 Sea World Dr. www.seaworldsandiego.com
They’re Not in a Rush—But You Should Be! Leaving Sep 1
Stroller Strides at the Safari Park. Parents will have a blast with their little ones (and other parents) all while getting exercise and exploring the 1,800-acre park. Today & Aug. 21, 8:30 am. Included with admission. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido. www.northcountyinland.fit4mom.com
Shark Summer Pop-Up Science. Shark-themed snacks, jaw-some shark science and more. 5–8 pm. Included with admission. $24.95–$29.95; 2 & under free. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. www.aquarium.ucsd.edu/events/sharksummer
Recess at Omas: Bubble Blast. Bubbles and bubble-themed activities. Through Aug. 9. 10 am–4 pm. $14–$18. 14950 El Monte Rd., Lakeside. www.omasfamilyfarm.com
FREE La Mesa Classic Car Show & Music Event. Thursdays, 5–8 pm through Aug. 28. La Mesa Blvd. www.lamesavillageassociation.org
FREE Concerts at the Cove. 6–7:45 pm. Fletcher Cove Park, 111 S. Sierra Ave., Solana Beach. www.cityofsolanabeach.org
FREE Parks After Dark. Inflatables, arts & crafts and more. Through Aug. 9, 5–8 pm. City Heights (4380 Landis St.), Linda Vista (7064 Levant St.), Logan Heights (2902 Marcy Ave.) & Skyline Hills (8285 Skyline Dr.). Details: www.sandiegoparksfoundation.org
FREE Flicks at the Fountain: “Captain America: Brave New World.” Bring low-back chairs and blankets. 6 pm; movie starts at dusk. Carlsbad Village Assoc., 2695 State St., Carlsbad. www.carlsbad-village.com
FREE Santee Summer Concerts. Tonight & Aug. 14, 6:30–8 pm. Town Center Community Park E., 550 Park Ctr. Dr. www.cityofsanteeca.gov
friday | 8
Star of India Family Overnight Experience. Families sleep on a historic 1863 tall ship and step into the life of an 1800s sailor in a living history adventure complete with sailing tasks, storytelling and more. Today, 2 pm until 9 am Saturday. $100. Maritime Museum of San Diego, 1492 North Harbor Dr. www.sdmaritime.org/visit/special-events/ star-of-india-overnight
Toro Nagashi Festival. Floating lantern ceremony to honor those who have passed. Today & tomorrow, 11 am–5:30 pm. Lantern, $10. Japanese Friendship Garden, Balboa Park. www.niwa.org
Friday Night Splash.
Today & Aug. 22. 4–8 pm. $12. The Wave Waterpark, 101 Wave Dr., Vista. www.thewavewaterpark.com
saturday | 9
FREE Movie in the Park: “Disney’s Moana 2.” Bring blankets and chairs. Movie begins at dusk. Brengle Terrace Park Ball Fields, 1200 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista. www.vista.gov
S an Diego Wave FC. Cheer on our national women’s soccer team. Tonight, 7 pm & Aug. 24, 5 pm. Snapdragon Stadium, 2101 Stadium Way. Tickets: www.sandiegowavefc.com
Calendar • August
Balboa Park Carousel
Open Daily
Open Daily
June 7-August 20, 2024
May 29- August 10, 2025
11AM-5:30PM
11AM-5:30PM
Built in 1910, the Balboa Park Carousel has brought joy to visitors for more than 100 years!
Birding specialists help find bird species in the native and ornamental gardens. 8 am. $10–$18. San Diego Botanic Garden, 300 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas. www.sdbg.org
Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and
friday | 15
Summergrass San Diego. Bluegrass festival. Today, 3 pm–10 pm; tomorrow, 10 am–10 pm; Aug. 18, 9 am–6 pm. Starting at $30; 6 & under free. Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, 2040 N. Santa Fe Ave., Vista. www.summergrass.net
saturday | 16
FREE Beach Blanket Movie Night: “Rio.” Live music followed by a movie. 6 pm. Fletcher Cove Park, 111 S. Sierra Ave. www.cityofsolanabeach.org
Summer Concert Series. 7 pm. $10. The Wood House in Woodland Park, 1148 Rock Springs Rd., San Marcos. www.san-marcos.net
FREE Movies in Memorial: “Encanto.” 7:30–9:30 pm. 373 Park Way, Chula Vista. www.downtownchulavista.com
FREE Sounds of Summer. Every second & fourth Sat. through Sept. 27, 5:30–7:30 pm. Grossmont Center Courtyard, 5500 Grossmont Ctr. Dr., La Mesa. www.grossmontcenter.com
sunday | 10
FREE Symphony in the Park. Bring a picnic dinner, blankets and low back chairs. 6–7:30 pm. Hoyt Park, Scripps Ranch Blvd. & Aviary Dr. www.symphonyinthepark.org
FREE Moonlight Beach Concert. 1–5 pm. Moonlight Beach, 400 B St. Encinitas. www.encinitasca.gov
tuesday | 12
“Shucked.” This corn-fed, corn-bred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater. Through Aug. 17. Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave. www.broadwaysd.com
FREE Summer Twilight Concerts. Music, dancing and a Del Mar sunset. 6–9 pm. Powerhouse Park, 1658 Coast Blvd. www.delmarfoundation.org
wednesday | 13
“Fiddler on the Roof.” A story that captures the essential human longings for love, community, success, freedom, family and meaning. Wed.–Sun, through Aug. 30, 8 pm. Starting at $43. Moonlight Amphitheatre, 1250 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista. www.moonlightstage.com
Fairy Tales in the Park. Features the stories “Rapunzel,” “The Firebird” and “The Sleeping Beauty.” Today & tomorrow, 11 am & 2 pm. $15. Presented by San Diego Civic Youth Ballet. Casa del Prado, Balboa Park. Tickets: www.sdcyb.org
KPBS Kids Event: Curious George. Explore the garden and practice your green thumb with Curious George. 10 am. Included with admission. $14. Children’s Museum of Discovery, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.visitcmod.org
Crafting with Critters. Hands-on animal encounters and fun, nature-inspired creations. 3:30–5 pm. $35. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6447 Helen Woodward Way, Del Mar. www.animalcenter.org
Thomas Family Day. A day all about Thomas the Tank Engine. 10 am–4 pm. $10–$20; 12 & under free. San Diego Model Railroad Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdmrm.org
FREE Summer Food Festival. Mobile cuisine, kids fun, live music and more. 4–8 pm. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz
FREE Summer Twilight Walk. Learn about the changes that occur at dusk as the sun goes down. 7–9 pm. Bushy Hill Dr. & Father Junipero Serra Trail. https://mtrp.org
Sizzling Summer Nights. Classic cars, food, lawn games and more. 4–9 pm. $10–$15. Southern California Railway Museum, 2201 S. “A” St., Perris. www.socalrailway.org
America’s Finest City Half Marathon & 5K. San Diego’s fastest and most scenic half marathon. 5K: 6:10 am; half: 6:15 am. $62–$169. 2131 Pan American Plaza. Register: www.raceroster.com
FREE Star Walk XXXVI. Learn basic astronomy concepts. 7–9 pm. Double Peak Park, 900 Double Peak Dr., San Marcos. www.san-marcos.net
“Barbie the Movie” in Concert. 7:30 pm. Starting at $37. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, 222 Marina Park Way. www.theshell.org
CLUE: A Walking Mystery Tour. An interactive, real-world twist on the classic board game. Through Sept. 28. Details: www.cluewalkingexperience.com
saturday | 23
“Jurassic Park” in Concert. 7:30 pm. Starting at $59. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, 222 Marina Park Way. www.theshell.org
sunday | 24
FREE LeucadiART Walk. Art, music, culture and fun. 10 am–5 pm. Along Hwy. 101. www.leucadia101.com
Bike the Bay. Ride across the Coronado Bridge and around the bay. Proceeds benefit the SD County Bicycle Coalition. 7–11 am. $92. Ages 10 & up. Embarcadero Marina Park S., 200 Marina Park Way. www.bikethebay.net
tuesday | 26
Taste of Encinitas. 5:30–6:30 pm. S. Coast Hwy. 101. www.encinitas101.com
friday | 29
FREE Movie in the Moonlight: “The Little Mermaid.” Movie starts at dusk. Loma Verde Pool, 1420 Loma Ln. www.chulavistaca.gov/rec
FREE Movies in the Park: “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.” 6:30 pm, movie at sunset. Woodland Park, 671 Woodland Pkwy., San Marcos. www.san-marcos.net
Fun Animal Friday. Story time, handson activity and an animal meet-and-greet. 10–11:30 am. $14. Children’s Museum of Discovery, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.visitcmod.org
FREE Música en la Plaza. Enjoy vibrant music under the stars. 7 pm. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, Lyric Courtyard, 340 Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org
saturday | 30
FREE San Diego Made Summer Market at Liberty Station. Kids crafts & activities, food, live music and more. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–5 pm. NTC Park Field, 2875 Dewey Rd. www.sdmademarkets.com
Holo Holo Music Festival. An electrifying fusion of reggae, island, and Polynesianinspired music. Today & tomorrow. Starting at $73. Gallagher Square, Petco Park. www.holoholofestival.com
FREE SDG&E Wildfire Safety Event. Receive information about stocking an emergency kit, developing an emergency plan, designing or modifying the space around your home to resist wildfire and more. 9 am–1 pm. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz
sunday | 31
Family Fun Day at the Del Mar Racetrack. Kid-friendly attractions including obstacle courses, rock climbing and more. 12:30–5:30 pm. $11; 17 & under free. Seaside Cabana, Del Mar Racetrack, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.dmtc.com
More fun events await at sandiegofamily.com.
Want us to spread the news? Email events@sandiegofamily.com and include the name of the event or activity, a brief description, event address, date, time, cost, contact number and website. Submission does not guarantee publication. Deadline for the October issue: Sept. 1.
To serve and empower persons with developmental disabilities and their families to achieve their goals with community partners. / Servir y empoderar a personas con discapacidades del desarrollo y a sus familias para que alcancen sus metas con socios comunitarios.
ALL OUR FOSSILS. ALL IN ONE PLACE. FOR ALL TO ENJOY.
NOW OPEN! Our biggest new exhibition in years, Amazement in the Basement, offers a behind-the-scenes look at fascinating specimens from our collection and scientists at work in the new Paleo Center.
It’s part of another non-stop Summer of Wonder, with three films in our theater, Nat at Night on Fridays, rooftop views all weekend, and hands-on activities for the kiddos.
Come visit—you’ll be amazed. Tickets at sdnat.org.
