Sonoma Family Life August 2016 by familylifemag

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August 2016

Comic Mom Local writes for ABC show

Talk to Teach Build rapport Â

Pump at Work Make it easier Homework Help 7 Tips for success

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August 2016

Every Issue

10 Features 10 Queen of Comedy Our humorist talks about life as a writer for ABC’s Last Man Standing.

14 Put the Om in Homework Creative ways to help kids calm down and focus on studying.

16 Seeds of School Success Advice for building a positive relationship with your child’s teacher.

18 2016–17 School Calendars All the key dates you need in one place.

22 The Doctor Is In

Dear Reader

Bits and Pieces Shake Those Hips Soothe Sensitives Boy of the Jungle Apple of Our Eye Take Me to the Islands Calling All Karate Kids

24 Dear Teacher Head of the Class

28 Calendar of Events Jump, Shout, Munch

38 Cooking with Kids A+ School Lunch

39 Crafting with Kids Apple Art

42 Humor Break

Take the sting out of well-child visits.

26 Mom’s Office Breastaurant

8 4 SonomaFamilyLife

Tips for making pumping on the job easier.

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

A Doctor’s ConfessiontotoPetaluma Petaluma Doctor’s Confession

Dear Friend, I wanted Dear Friend,to let everyone know what happened while I was in college. was a I wanted to let everyone know It what moment that changed my life forever. But happened while I was in college. It was a before I tell about my my life experience, moment thatyou changed forever. IBut wanted tellyou youabout my story from the start. before Itotell my experience, I Let me start by explaining the photo wanted to tell you my story from thein start. this letter. amexplaining the guy inthe thephoto middle, Dr Let me startI by in this Taatjes. You when I meet people letter. I am theknow guy in the middle, Dr. Taatjes. in town and theyI usually say, in “Oh yeah, You know when meet people town andI know you, you’re Dr. Taatjes. You’ve been they usually say, “Oh yeah, I know you, you’re on and Ross years…” Well, Dr.McDowell Taatjes. You’ve been for serving the commuthat’s nity forme. twenty-four years! Well that’s me. We years agoinsomething hapareTwenty-six now centrally located our beautiful new pened me that my life forever. office totobetter servechanged the community. LetTwenty-seven me tell you my story. years ago something I was studying pre-Med in college, happened to me that changed my lifein hopes of becoming a medical forever. Let me tell you my doctor. story. Things looking up, andinlife was good, Dr. with his sons, Hayden (left) and Henry (right). I waswere studying pre-Med college, in Dr.Taatjes Taatjes with his sons, Hayden (left) and Henry (right). until things took a turn for the worse. hopes of becoming a medical doctor. whole ball of wax. This exam could cost practic, we don’t add anything to the body I began to looking have terrible back Things were up, and lifeand wasstomgood, you $350 elsewhere. Great care at a great or take anything from it. We find interferach For a young guy,worse. I felt pretty ence but that simply isn’t system the case.and With chiroa lesser amount for chiropractic. When untilproblems. things took a turn for the fee… in the nervous remove it, rotten. Mytoback so badly thatstomach I had a practic, we don’tthe addhealing anything to the body or youPlease, bring in this article by August 31 2016, I began havehurt terrible back and I hope that there’s no misunderthus enhancing capacities of the hard time even in pretty class. rotten. I was body. take anything it. We results…it find interference you will receive my entire new patient exam problems. For aconcentrating young guy, I felt about quality of care, just because We get from tremendous really standing miserable. The in the nervous system and remove it, thus for $27. That’s with x-rays, exam, report of My back hurt so medical badly thatdoctors I had atried hard differtime I have a lower exam fee. You’ll get great is as simple as that. ent but theyin only made memiserable. feel like I enhancing the healing of thehad body. care findings…the ball of wax. This exam evendrugs, concentrating class. I was at a great whole fee. My qualifications… Here’s what some capacities of my patients was in a “cloud.” not getting Wesay: get tremendous results…it really is as could cost you of $350 elsewhere. College Great care The medical doctorsI was triedjust different drugs, betbut I’m a graduate Northwestern of to ter. friend of mine convinced give a simple as that. at a great fee… theyAonly made me feel like I wasme in ato“cloud.” Chiropractic who regularly goes to monthly “I have had a problem with migraines chiropractor try. The chiropractor an Here’s whatback some of my patients had Please, I hope that there’s no misunderI was just not agetting better. A friend ofdid mine educational chiropractic seminars. I’ve as well as low pain. Even after seeing exam, took some films and then “adjusted” to say: standing about quality care, just because convinced me to give a chiropractor a try. The doctors and other health professionals, the been entrusted to take of care of tiny babies toI my spine. The didn’t hurt -- it “I have had a problem with migraines have a lower exam You’ll getI great care at chiropractor didadjustment an exam, took some films neighbors that youfee. may know. just have pains remained. After coming to Dr. Joel, actually good. my I gotspine. relief,The andadjustI soon as well as low back pain. Even after seeing a great fee. My qualifications…I’m a graduate and then felt “adjusted” that low exam fee to help more people who they have helped me tremendously. They was all medication. It worked so well doctors and othermy health professionals, of Northwestern College of Chiropractic who mentoff didn’t hurt -- it actually felt good. I got need care. even take away migraines. They’rethe that to become pains remained. regularly goes to monthly educational chirorelief,I decided, and I soonthen wasand off there, all medication. It a My associates, Dr. Rose, Dr. Truong and great!” (Judy E.) After coming to Dr. Joel, chiropractor myself. they“Ihave helped me tremendously. They practic seminars. I’ve been entrusted to take worked so well that I decided, then and there, I are ready to see if we can help you. Our came in pending laser surgery for Now fora my kids, Hayden and Henry. evenherniated take awaydiscs. my migraines. They’re care of tiny babies to neighbors that you to become chiropractor myself. offices are both friendly and warm andmay we two Over a few months They have been under chiropractic care their great!” (Judy E.) know. just have that you low exam to helpWe Now for my kids, Hayden and Henry. They try ourI best to make feel atfee home. here the need for surgery subsided, and the entire lives. And, unlike most other in came in pending laser discomfort surgery for with two more apeople who need care.at an exceptional have been under chiropractic care theirkids entire have wonderful service, pain“Ihas subsided to a mild their never thekids “common” herniated discs. Over a few months hereI associates, Kevin Linzey, Dr. Brian lives. class, And, they unlike mostget other in their fee.My Our office isDr. called REDWOOD CHIoccasional morning stiffness. Over all, childhood illnesses like“common” ear infections, the need surgery the pain Rohowits and I are to see if wetwo canlocahelp class, they never get the childhood ROPRACTIC andready we now have feel betterforvisit after subsided, visit. It’sand a gradual asthma and allergies. In fact, they have has subsided to a mild discomfort with ocyou. Our office is both friendly and warm illnesses like ear infections, asthma and allertions. Our main office is located at 1225and N. process.” (Jaime O.) never taken drughave in their they casional morning stiffness. Over all, I feel we try our best to make you feelphone at home. We gies. In fact,athey neverlives. takenAnd a drug in McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, number Several times a day patients thank me are 17And and they 18! are now 17 and 19! better visit after gradualproblems. process.” is have wonderful an exceptional fee. theirnow lives. 763-8910. Dr.service, Taatjesatwould love to help for helping themvisit. with It’s theira health It’s strange how life is, because now (Jaime O.) Our at office called REDWOOD CHIROIt’s strange how life is, because now people But I can’t really take credit. you thisislocation.Our second location people to with see me with their back probSeveral a day patients thank me for is PRACTIC. We are located at 937 Lakeville come tocome see me their back problems and at 225 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, Find outtimes for yourself and benefit from lems andproblems. stomach problems. helping them with their health problems. But with StreetDr. Petaluma, and the our phone phone number stomach They comeThey to mecome with to Truong, and number isis an AMAZING OFFER. Look, it shouldn’t me their headaches, chronic cost I can’t really takeand credit. 763-8910. Call theirwith headaches, migraines,migraines, chronic pain, 775-2545. CallAlex, Alex,Danielle Wendy, or or Chelsea, Chauntel you an arm a leg to correct your pain, neck shoulder/arm pain, shoulder/arm pain, whipFind out for yourself and benefit today for an appointment. We can help you. neck pain, pain, whiplash from today for an appointment. We can help you. health. You are going to write a check to lash from car asthma, accidents, asthma,numbness allergies,in from an AMAZING OFFER. Look, you Thank Thank you. car accidents, allergies, you. someone for your health care expenses, numbness in limbs, athletic just to it shouldn’t youone an for arma and a leg to -Dr. Joel Taatjes limbs, athletic injuries, just toinjuries, name a few. -Dr. Joel Taatjes may as wellcost write lesser amount name a few. correct your health. You are going to write P.S. When When accompanied accompanied by If drugs make people well, then those P.S. by this this ad. firstI Iam amalso for chiropractic. When you bring in this drugs then those aarticle checkbytoJuly someone for your health care offering the second family member this same whoIf take themake mostpeople shouldwell, be the healthiest, also offering the second family member this 31, 2012, you will receive who take the most should be the healthiest, expenses, you may as exam well write oneThat’s for examination for only same examination for$15. only $15. my entire new patient for $27. but that simply isn’t the case. With chirowith x-rays, exam, report of findings…the

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2016

SonomaFamilyLife 5

Dear Reader

isten. Can you hear it? That’s the sound of school bells ringing. Here are some tips to get the very best start this school Sharon Gowan Publisher/Editor year. “Seeds of Sharon@family-life.us School Success” (page 16) will make sure you get off on the right foot with your child’s teacher. And the innovative ideas in “Put the Om in Homework” (page 14) will curb study-session dramas. Already wondering how you’ll spend breaks? With our 2016–17 School Calendars (page 18), you can plan them now.

Breastfeeding Month. Even though nursing is natural, it’s not always easy, especially for mothers who work outside of the home. Get advice on how to successfully pump on the job in “Mom’s Office Breastaurant” (page 26). Our local humorist, Holly Hester, is no stranger to the challenges of balancing a professional life with kids. She was nervous starting her new gig as a writer for ABC’s Last Man Standing. But in “Queen of Comedy” (page 10) she shares how being a mom actually gives her the upper hand in the writers’ room.

Renee Nutcher renee@family-life.us Marie Anderson marie@family-life.us

Features Editor Melissa Chianta melissa@family-life.us

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Bits & Pieces

Shake Those Hips

et the Americana rhythms of Jackie Greene perk up your soul at the Ninth Annual Petaluma Music Festival. A Northern California native who has played with the Black Crowes and Phil Lesh, Greene is known as a “triple threat” for his finesse as a singer/ songwriter, guitarist, and keyboard player. He will be performing along with legendary guitarist Steve Kimock, rockers the Mother Hips, and several other musicians such as the David Nelson Band, Moonalice, and David Luning. The younger set will enjoy a Kids Area featuring a bouncy house, giant slide, and toddler inflatable as well as face painting, a free petting zoo, and free arts and crafts activities. The festival will be held on August 6, noon–9 p.m., at the Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds in Petaluma. Adult tickets are $45; ages 13–17 are $20 (at the gate only); kids 12 and under are free. A $20 Kids Area wristband gets you unlimited access to the bouncy house and other inflatables. Proceeds benefit music programs in local schools. Be sure to leave your pooch at home, unless he’s a service animal. See petalumamusicfestival.org to purchase tickets and for more information. ¶

Jackie Greene

Soothe Sensitives

ometimes it can be difficult for a child with autism or sensory processing disorder to simply go out and eat with his or her family. Mary’s Pizza Shack aims to help make dining together easier for families with a child with special needs. The restaurant has partnered with Anova, a local nonprofit that offers services to children with autism and other neurodevelopmental impairments, to provide Sensory Friendly Kits. The kits include noise-reduction earmuffs, a three-pound weighted lap pad, and several different sensory toys to help promote a more calming environment. They are available upon request and free to use while dining at any of the restaurant’s 11 Sonoma County locations. Find out more at anovaeducation.org. ¶

Boy of the Jungle

ollow a young boy and his panther friend as they face down an evil tiger in the 6th Street Playhouse production of The Jungle Book Kids. Hear the chipper Balu the bear sing “The Bare Necessities,” King Louie the ape churn out the jazzy “I Wanna Be Like You,” and a barbershop quartet of forest animals croon “That’s What Friends Are For.” The musical will be performed on August 5 at 8 p.m., August 6 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and August 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for ages 13 and up, $10 for ages 5–12, and may be purchased at 6thstreetplayhouse.com. ¶

Left to right: Taylor Hayes, Ella Jones, and Kyra Maloney in The Jungle Book Kids.

8 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Photo: Greg Vorobiov

Take Me to the Islands

ou don’t have to go to Hawaii to see a hula dance. Just make your way to the free Sixth Annual Pacific Islander Festival, and let the gentle movements of local dancers bring tropical ocean breezes to you. Pineapple moon pies and other traditional eats, as well as crafts from Hawaii, will add to the island vibe. The event will be held on August 27, 11 a.m.–6 p.m., at the Rohnert Park City Center Plaza in Rohnert Park. For more information, including pictures and videos of last year’s event, see facebook.com/ rpwarriorspifestival. ¶

Calling All Karate Kids

Apple of Our Eye

unge, kick, bow. While martial arts teach self-defense, the practices also help children build mental focus and self-esteem. Find out what heading to a dojo might offer your kids at the free Martial Arts Family Expo on August 13, noon–5 p.m., in the Coddingtown Mall in Santa Rosa. See live demonstrations and get more information about a variety of self-defense techniques: aikido, judo, taekwondo, kickboxing, and even fencing, among others. Put on by the Martial Arts Community Service (MACS) group, the expo is a fundraiser for martial arts program scholarships for Sonoma County kids. To learn more, e-mail martialarts familyexpo@gmail.com. ¶

he rosy Gravenstein is a celebrity of local agriculture. It even has its own festival: the Gravenstein Apple Fair, where you can crunch on the local fruit, dance to live bands on two stages, watch a cow milking or a sheep sheering, enter an apple–pie contest, and nibble on artisanal cheeses or sample local wine, cider, and beer. Little ones can fill up on free activities like a sing-along, puppet show, pie-eating contest, and a circus performance. The fair will be held August 13–14, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., at Ragle Ranch Park in Sebastopol. Advance tickets are $12 for ages 13 and up and $8 for ages 6–12. On-site (cash-only) tickets are $15 for ages 13 and up, $10 for adults who bike to the fair, $12 for seniors and veterans, and $10 for ages 6–12. Kids five and under are free. For more information, see gravensteinapplefair.com. ¶ www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2016

SonomaFamilyLife 9

Holly Hester balances life as a Hollywood writer with life on her Sebastopol farm.

Queen of Comedy Our Humorist Writes for ABC By Melissa Chianta

here is a magic refrigerator at the office of Sebastopol mom (and our humor writer) Holly Hester. Write the name of any edible delight on the adjacent white board labeled “Grocery,” and, lickety-split, it appears in the fridge. 10 SonomaFamilyLife

“The first thing I wrote on the board just to see if it would show up was this organic raw almond butter that’s at Whole Foods for $25 a jar and that I just won’t buy

She set out to show her colleagues not just what a woman could do, but what a mom could do. on principle. I checked and in an hour there it was. So then I started writing every single thing that I had been denying myself at Whole Foods for years—whatever, like chocolate-covered goji berries. And the magic refrigerator supplies them!” Hester exclaims.

Welcome to Hollywood, home of fridge genies and Hester’s new job writing for the ABC comedy Last Man Standing starring Tim Allen. Hester is no stranger to Tinsel Town. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, she wrote for Ellen and was the executive producer of both The Drew Carey Show and (speaking of genies) Sabrina: The Teenage Witch. Fueled by 60–80–hour workweeks, her career chugged along, and then in 2003, she had her first baby. One look at his cute face and she made the decision to abandon her hectic, super-plush lifestyle and become a full-time, regular ol’ middle-class mom. “It was funny. [Before I had kids,] I really, really hated it when people

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

would quit their careers to have babies. I thought that was so bad for women. How are we going to push ahead and rule the world if people keep quitting to have babies? I just didn’t understand. And then I had a baby, and I quit,” she says, laughing. “Now I understand.” That was 13 years ago. In the interim, she and her husband, wine sales associate Bill Shortridge, moved to Sebastopol where she has been homeschooling her now three children—12-year-old Buck, ten-year-old Emerson, and

“[Before I had kids,] I really, really hated it when people would quit their careers to have babies. And then I had a baby, and I quit.” —Holly Hester six-year-old August—while tending an acre vineyard and raising 60 chickens.

have been talking to children for 13 years. I can blow bubbles; I can jump off a trampoline. But I can’t jump into this conversation.’” To make matters worse, her mostly male colleagues, not unlike her earlier self, were not impressed with how she had spent her Hollywood hiatus. When one welcomed her back from her 13-year “vacation,” she didn’t take it well. “Oh my God! Cooking all day, no sleep, being spit up on, taking kids everywhere, just making sure they are safe,” that’s definitely been a vacation, she retorts. After that inaugural session, she went home deflated, but she knew she had to rally. She gave the dismissive comments and her own self-critical thoughts the boot and called forth her former self. “I used to be a really, really competitive person,” she explains. “I think there are 12 writers on the

show, and there are only three women. [The men] have big voices; they’re really funny. A lot of them are comics. And way back when I felt very competitive, [I’d think,] ‘I’ll show you. I’m going to represent for all women. I’m going to get this joke first. All your preconceived notions

Hester is keeping it real in the writers’ room. about women—I’m going to dash them.’ But when I had children…I just put that whole side of myself away,” she explains. She decided it was high time to bring back the sass and set out to show her colleagues not just what a woman could do, but what a mom could do— and a middle-class mom at that. “One of my complaints when I lived [in Hollywood] the first time was that people were so wealthy, so out

Getting back into television writing was basically a financial move for Hester. “As you know, Sebastopol is very expensive,” she says. And though the salary is great, going back to Hollywood after a 13-year break has had its challenging moments. “The first day I had to sit in the writers’ room, I was stone silent. I was absolutely terrified. I had this frozen, fake smile on my face. I didn’t even know what to say. I was just sweating,” she recounts. “People in writers’ rooms are so funny, and they are so sharp. And I thought, ‘I www.sonomafamilylife.com

Hester with, from left, Buck, Emerson, and August.

August 2016

SonomaFamilyLife 11

Ms. Mirth’s Work

e’ve gotten such a kick out of publishing Holly Hester’s articles. Though Hester is very busy with her new job at ABC, she’s still going to provide us with some material now and then. Look for her essays in the “Humor Break” section of our magazine. In the meantime, go to sonomafamilylife.com and check out these pieces she has already published with us. “Babymooners: 5 Local Spots for That Last Kid-Free Fling,” May 2016 “Mom Mischief: Pranks to Play on Your Kids,” April 2016 “My V-Day Wish List: A Nap, a Shower, and a Dry Toilet Seat,” February 2016 “Not This New Year: Resolutions I Won’t Keep,” January 2016 “The 12 Denials of Christmas: Holiday Hazards I Won’t Avoid,” December 2015 “On the Open Trail: 5 Beautiful, Local Family Hikes,” November 2015 “Back to the Land: Farm Trails Makes It a Breeze to Buy Homegrown,” October 2015 “The 7 Stages of Lunch Box Grief: Make Peace with a Necessary Evil,” September 2015 “I’m Free!: Mom’s Back-to-School Emancipation List,” August 2015 “The Frugal Fashionista: Find Back-to-School Thrift Store Treasures,” July 2015

of touch with how people actually lived, it was difficult for them to write for television,” she says. Her colleagues would ask each other what people were doing in the “fly-over states,” those apparently

L. A.’s slick urban mystique has been turning her countrified kids’ world upside down. insignificant parcels of land between Los Angeles and New York City. Now, she says, she makes sure the perspective of everyday parent-folk is on the table. For instance, when her colleagues were plotting out a storyline in which the show’s college-age daughter quits school to volunteer, she asked the question nobody else had even thought of: How is she going to make money? “Everybody looked at me: ‘What?’ And I [said,] ‘You know, how is she going to pay her phone bill? How is she going to pay her insurance? Money questions would be every parent’s question.’ And everyone [said,] ‘Oh. You’re right,’” Hester recounts. While Hester has been keeping it real in the writers’ room, Los Angeles’s slick urban mystique has been turning her countrified kids’ world upside down. “When I first took the kids [to Los Angeles], they were afraid to get on an escalator,” she says. “I was like, okay they’re Amish,” she says, chuckling.

“We pulled up in front of a restaurant, and my daughter said, ‘Mommy, there’s somebody standing by the car and [I said,] ‘Oh that’s a valet. They take your car and they park it. And [the kids said,] ‘But where? Why do they do that?’ [I said,] ‘Okay, everybody out of the car. I’ll explain in the restaurant,’” she recalls, amused. After the buzz of escalators and valets wore off, they started going to “mind-blowing” exhibits at children’s museums with their dad. And with Hester’s miraculously light schedule, she sometimes has been able to go with them. But still, even with all of Hollywood’s curiosities, the slow hum

Going back to Hollywood after a 13-year break has had its challenging moments. of planting and growing, feeding and tending beckons. So on weekends, everyone heads back to the farm, where the quiet life embraces them. “It sounds so silly, but pushing a wheelbarrow around, taking care of the animals, hanging out in nature— it just does so much for you. It’s so grounding and calming to your central nervous system. You’re so happy,” she says. Ultimately, Hester would like to be able to work from home and just come to L. A. for meetings. But for now it’s hanging out in the land of writers’ rooms and magic refrigerators. Just write on the board: “brand new life.” And Bam! You’ve got it. ¶ Melissa Chianta is the features editor for Sonoma Family Life magazine.

12 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

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August 2016

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SonomaFamilyLife 13

Tips to Ease Put the 7Frustration & Om in Boost Focus Homework By Christa Melnyk Hines

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

“My daughter began showing signs of difficulty [with focusing] on homework in kindergarten. By second grade we were drowning,” Mednick says. “We ended up spending the next two years in a tug-of-war of time, and many tears were shed.” Many parents can relate and dread the contentious homework hour, which can plunder an otherwise peaceful evening. For kiddos who struggle to tune out distractions and concentrate on the task at hand, sitting down to do homework is not a priority. 14 SonomaFamilyLife

How can we create a homework atmosphere that will enhance our child’s ability to concentrate and get the job done quickly—without the draining drama? Work in short bursts. Kids get overwhelmed with long worksheets and multiple assignments. Break

Yoga stretches and breathing exercises can calm and re-energize a tired body. homework into timed chunks. After a busy day at school, parents can typically expect their youngsters to focus on a task for one minute for each year of their age. That means a six-year-old should be given a two- or three-minute break every six minutes.

“Expecting 30 minutes of homework out of a first grader isn’t realistic without breaks,” says Rachel Rudman, a pediatric occupational therapist. Create smart brain breaks. During the timed breaks, engage your child in short activities that help reorganize and refocus the brain—jumping jacks, playing with Legos or Play-Doh, or snacking on crunchy carrots or pretzel rods or something chewy such as fruit leather. Blowing up a balloon can also help ease frustrations. “Blowing forces the child to take deep breaths, which increases relaxation and focus,” Rudman says. Avoid electronics, which can be harder to pull away a child from. Strike a pose. Yoga stretches and breathing exercises, such as

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

those you’ll find on kidsyogastories. com/kids-yoga-poses, can calm and re-energize a tired body. Try the Seated Twist pose or a balancing pose like Warrior 3. “Balancing poses require a level of concentration. [They] are a great way to strengthen those ‘focus muscles’ and create a body and mind that is strong and relaxed,” says Mariam Gates, the author of the children’s book Good Night Yoga: A Pose-by-Pose Bedtime Story (Sounds True, 2015). Integrate natural elements. Researchers have found that including ornamental plants in a learning area can further enhance a child’s ability to concentrate and learn. “And weirdly, the more involved the child is in the plant’s life or maintenance, the more learning goes

on,” says Magalie Rene, a classroom design consultant. Chew gum. Although the “no gum allowed” rule was grilled into our psyches when we were students, more

Parents can typically expect their youngsters to focus on a task for one minute for each year of their age. schools now allow kids to chew gum during state assessments. The chewing movement has an organizing effect on the brain and can help kids focus. Energize with aromatherapy. Scent can have a powerful effect on our emotional well-being. Fill a spray bottle with water and two or three

drops of peppermint, rosemary, or citrus essential oil. Spray the scent around the study area to enhance concentration, focus, and creativity. Get organized. Make a homework box either out of a large shoebox or plastic container. Have your child decorate it and store homework supplies like pens, pencils, crayons, markers, scissors, paper, and a glue stick. “Having everything together creates an atmosphere of organization and success,” Rudman says. If your youngster continues to struggle with focus and concentration, consult with your family’s pediatrician or a child psychologist. ¶ Christa Melnyk Hines is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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SonomaFamilyLife 15

Seeds of School Success By Ashley Talmadge

want the teacher to connect your child specifically to you. Define communication. Some teachers prefer to correspond via e-mail. Others like a quick handwritten note, and still others prefer an after-school phone call. Pay attention to specifics. As Recht says, “Don’t send an important e-mail before school starts in the morning—I won’t be able to read it.”

Nurturing the Parent-Teacher Relationship

ids are notoriously reticent when it comes to divulging details of their school lives. Questions from parents often receive a single-word response. Or a shrug. The first indication of a problem may come via an unexpected call or e-mail from the teacher.

Want better insight into classroom dynamics? There’s a solution: Get to know your child’s teacher. Research shows that a solid working relationship between teacher and parent can lead to fewer behavioral problems and better academic performance for the child. Teachers pay more attention to students whose parents are involved, and are more apt to identify problems in the early stages when intervention is more successful. Sally McEntire, mother of two, has made a practice of nurturing the parent-teacher relationship early on. She says, “I don’t want the teacher to hesitate talking to me if [he or she has] concerns regarding my child.” 16 SonomaFamilyLife

Isabel Recht has been an elementary classroom teacher for nine years. Soon after school starts, she sends a memo to parents, noting times when help is needed. She’s aware that many parents are unable to volunteer during the school day, and lists many tasks that can be done off site. She laughs, saying, “It was one of my parents who set up the online volunteer sign-up system for my classroom last year!” The following are “building blocks” for that all important parent-teacher relationship: Introduce yourself. Face-to-face contact is best, but a brief e-mail or handwritten note works, too. You

Describe your child’s interests. Help the teacher understand what motivates your child, without bragging. For instance, “Katy enjoys figuring out how things are put together and is involved in a robotics club,” will be better received than, “Katy was chosen ‘Most Valuable Member’ of her robotics club last year.” Identify challenges. Approach the teacher as a partner, rather than relieving your child of responsibility. Instead of, “Danny has trouble keeping track of things, so don’t be surprised if he loses his homework,” try, “Danny has difficulty with organization. Here’s what has helped at home, and I’d be happy to hear your suggestions.” Connect. Show an interest in the teacher’s life outside of school. Is she or he a birdwatcher? Quilter? Fan of a professional sports team? As McEntire says, “I take time to get to know [her or him], find something in common, even better, find something my kid and teacher have in common or can talk about.

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

ONE COMMUNITY

I want the teacher endeared to my child.” Volunteer. Let the teacher know if you have particular strengths, interests, and preferences. Do you like working directly with students?

Teachers pay more attention to students whose parents are involved. Or would you rather prepare materials? If your schedule doesn’t allow you to be in the classroom, can you chaperone an occasional field trip? Help without helicoptering. You can volunteer in the classroom without being your child’s personal assistant. Look for opportunities to help other students or prep materials while observing your child. If your presence distracts your child, perhaps you can assist in the library, lunchroom, or another classroom. Keep the teacher in the loop. Convey circumstances likely to affect your child’s classroom performance. A recent illness, lack of sleep, side effects from

medication, an impending move, a death or divorce in the family—all can impact a child’s behavior and achievement. A heads-up allows the teacher to be proactive. As McEntire concludes, “Because I have spent time building a relationship with the teacher, it’s much easier to approach her when difficulties arise. Instead of having a personal conversation with someone I don’t know, I am talking with someone I have a rapport with.” Respect the teacher’s time. Remember how many other students are in the class, and understand that the teacher simply doesn’t have time for extended daily conversations with parents. Recht says, “It’s important for a child’s success [for the child] to see that his parents are involved in the school and interested in his education.” An added bonus? When you’ve established a solid parent-teacher relationship, it’s much easier to trust your child and teacher to work through many classroom issues on their own. ¶

PARK SIDE (K-4)

BROOK HAVEN (5-8)

Ashley Talmadge is a freelance writer and mother of two young boys.

Guidance from Experts Get detailed information from these books on how to build effective connections with schoolteachers and administrators. The National PTA, Building Successful Partnerships: A Guide for Developing Parent and Family Involvement Programs (National Education Service, 2000). M. L. Nichols, The Parent Backpack for Kindergarten through Grade 5: How to Support Your Child’s Education, End Homework Meltdowns, and Build Parent-Teacher Connections (Ten Speed Press, 2013). Anne T. Henderson et al., Beyond the Bake Sale: The Essential Guide to Family-School Partnerships (The New Press, 2007). www.sonomafamilylife.com

3 AMAZING SCHOOLS

August 2016

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2016–17 School Calendars

First Day

Thanksgiving

Winter Break Presidents’ Days Spring Break

Last Day Other Days Off

Alexander Valley Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 23–25 Dec. 23–Jan. 6 Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Apr. 14, 17, May 26, 29

Bellevue Union

Aug. 18

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 6

Sept. 5, 6, Nov. 1, 11, Jan. 16, 17, May 29

Bennett Valley Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Mar. 17, May 29

Cinnabar

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Cloverdale Unified

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 17, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Feb. 16, May 29

Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Oct. 10, Nov. 11, Dec. 23 (K–8), Jan. 16, May 29

Dunham

Aug. 17

Nov. 23–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, 26, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Mar. 27, May 29

Forestville Union

Aug. 15

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, Nov. 1, 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Geyserville Unified

Aug. 17

Nov. 23–25

Dec. 22–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, April 17, May 29

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18 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

First Day

Thanksgiving

Winter Break Presidents’ Days Spring Break

Last Day Other Days Off

Gravenstein Union

Aug. 24

Nov. 23–25

Dec. 21–Jan. 3

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 8

Sept. 5, Nov. 10, 11, Jan. 16, April 14, 17, May 29

Guerneville

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 9

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Oct. 10, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Harmony Union

Aug. 18

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 17, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 6

Sept. 5, Nov. 10, 11, Jan. 16, April 14, 17, May 29

Healdsburg Unified

Aug. 22

Nov. 23–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 9

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 8

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Dec. 23, Jan. 16, May 26, 29

Kenwood

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Feb. 27, May 29

Liberty Elementary

Aug. 17

Nov. 23–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 17, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Nov. 10, 11, Jan. 16, April 17, May 29

Mark West Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Oct. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Oak Grove Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 21–Jan. 9

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Old Adobe Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 10 Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Petaluma City

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 9

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Piner-Olivet Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Oct. 7, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Mar. 17, May 29

Rincon Valley Union

Aug. 15

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Nov. 4, 11, Jan. 16, May 29

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SonomaFamilyLife 19

2016–17 School Calendars

First Day

Thanksgiving

Winter Break Presidents’ Days Spring Break

Roseland

Aug. 16

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 9

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, 30, Oct. 24, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Santa Rosa City Elementary

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Mar. 17, May 29

Santa Rosa City High

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Mar. 17, May 29

Sebastopol Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 6

Sept. 5, Oct. 10, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Apr. 17, May 29

Sonoma Valley Unified

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, Oct. 31, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Feb. 10, 27, Apr. 17, May 29

Twin Hills Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 1

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Two Rock Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Oct. 10, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Waugh

Aug. 16

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Oct. 13–14, Nov. 10, 11, Jan. 16, May 29

West Side Union

Aug. 22

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 23–Jan. 9

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 8

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 26, 29

West Sonoma County High

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 9

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Oct. 10, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

Wilmar Union

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 26–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Nov. 1, 11, Jan. 16, Apr. 17, May 29

Windsor Unified

Aug. 16

Nov. 21–24

Dec. 23–Jan. 6

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 2

Sept. 5, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, Apr. 14, 17, May 29

Wright School District

Aug. 17

Nov. 21–25

Dec. 22–Jan. 10

Feb. 13, 20

Mar. 20–24

June 7

Sept. 5, Oct. 17, Nov. 11, Jan. 16, May 29

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SonomaFamilyLife 21

The Doctor Is In

10 Ways to Prepare for Your Child’s Checkup

By Chrystal de Freitas, M. D.

ell-child checkups are a routine part of your child’s life; in fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a yearly visit for all children over the age of one. Here are some tips to help both

parents and children get the most out of their appointments. For Children Let your children know before their scheduled appointments that they will be visiting the doctor to make sure that their bodies are healthy. Portraying the visits in a positive manner should help to alleviate any fear that something may be wrong. Children who are more sensitive may agonize for days before their checkups, so use your best judgment as to how far in advance you let them know about the appointments.

Ask your children to participate in the process. Is there anything they would like to ask the doctor? Make a list of health topics they may want to review. In addition, include some fun achievements—a recent award, team participation, or a great dental checkup—to share with your

22 SonomaFamilyLife

provider. Getting the kids involved will help to empower them.

Many children like to play out their visits beforehand. Try providing a doctor’s kit to get them familiar with what may happen at the appointments. A picture book about going to the doctor can also help to alleviate fear of the unknown. Keep in mind that all good nurses will review in detail what they will be doing. Letting your children know that there should be no big surprises may reassure them.

If your children are anxious about shots, let them know that vaccines exist to help keep the body healthy. Depending on the children’s personalities and temperaments, you may want to either let them know

beforehand about the possibility of shots, or, if doing so creates too much stress, leave it up to the doctor to discuss during their visits.

Be positive, but don’t lie. There is no need to say, for instance, that a shot won’t hurt. Of course it hurts, but certainly not as bad as children usually imagine. To help put

Plan time to celebrate with your children after their checkups. it in perspective, you can teach your children the concept of a “0–10” pain scale: 0 is no pain while 10 is very painful. Let your children know that a shot is about a 2 or 3. For Parents Arrive early so there is plenty of time to do the paperwork. Your children can play in the waiting room while you check in.

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

SONOMA COUNTY’S

favorite pediatricians

Come prepared! Don’t forget to bring your children’s immunization cards to the visit, as keeping track of vaccines and updating your records is vital for school-entry paperwork. Also be prepared to tell your health-care provider about any updates in your children’s health histories as well as allergies or other concerns that you may have. Make a list to help you remember key points.

Help your child cope with shots. If your children are particularly anxious about the possibility of a shot, speak to your physician. There are numbing creams, sprays, breathing techniques, and other approaches to managing anxiety. Even just telling a joke or talking about a funny memory can do wonders!

If your children are distressed, avoid excessive reassurance, apologies, or criticism. Typically, a sense of calm acceptance on the parent’s behalf goes a long way toward comforting children.

Last, but most importantly, plan time to celebrate with your children after their checkups. Go out to lunch or for an ice cream cone, indulge in a small toy or treat, or run a special errand together.

Your children’s checkups can serve as a wonderful way to show them how proud you are to be their parent. As we often hear, it truly does take a village to raise a child; don’t be afraid to make your children’s pediatrician a vital part of that village. ¶ Chrystal de Freitas, M. D., is the author of Jake’s Kindergarten Checkup (Carmel Valley Pediatrics, 2016). Find out more at jakeskindergartencheckup.com.

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SonomaFamilyLife 23

Dear Teacher

that he is ready for kindergarten, another year of preschool might not be very challenging intellectually. In addition, your son will not be the youngest in his class next fall. This is a positive, as older children tend to do better in the first three grades.

Head of the Class Back-to-School Advice from Teachers

By Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts Is My Child Ready for Kindergarten? Question: We have been told by our son’s preschool teacher that he is ready for kindergarten, both academically and socially. He has a January birthday, so he will be five and a half by the time kindergarten starts. However, we have some reservations about sending him because there are confidence issues, as he is very cautious and somewhat reluctant to try new things. How should we factor in this issue when making our decision? Is there any downside to another year of preschool? —Too Cautious Answer: The one certainty about the kindergarten readiness issue is the inability to see the future. There are more than three months before he will go to kindergarten—time for your son to gain more confidence. 24 SonomaFamilyLife

Furthermore, you cannot be sure another year of preschool would make him more confident. You can start building his confidence by helping him learn how to handle

Is there any downside to another year of preschool? new situations. For example, before he faces a new situation, such as an overnight stay at a friend’s house, talk over what is going to happen and play-act possible responses. And when he faces a new task, guide him in breaking it down into manageable units based on his past experiences. The negative about another year of preschool is that it means an additional year of schooling. Also, since the preschool teacher believes

Visiting the preschool to see how your son interacts with his classmates and does the schoolwork also could help you make this decision. You will probably notice that there are other students who demonstrate the same reluctance to try new things as your son does. If you decide another year of preschool is the way you want to go, be sure to contact the school district to make sure that your son can enter kindergarten instead of first grade the next year. Some districts will insist that an older child enter first grade. Ways to Improve Poor Listening Skills Question: The teacher says that my daughter in third grade has poor listening skills. However, she had no suggestions when I asked for her input on how together we could improve the child’s listening. —Help Answer: Fortunately, there are some things that you can start doing at home to improve her listening skills: • Be sure to have eye contact with your daughter when you speak to her. It is an effective way to grab children’s attention.

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

• When you give directions, occasionally ask your child to repeat or rephrase them. When a task is completed, praise her for her cooperation.

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• Avoid repeating directions, requests, and general information. Let your daughter suffer the consequences of tuning out what her family is saying. • Play listening games with her like Simon Says and “I’m going on a trip and I’m going to take a (name an object plus all the objects other players have mentioned).” The latter can be played at the dinner table. • Start reading brief stories to your child, and ask her to tell you when she hears certain information. • Read part of a story and ask your child to predict how it will end before finishing the story. • Have many one-on-one conversations with your child. Be sure to ask for feedback so you know she’s able to process what she hears. A conference with this teacher that includes your child could be helpful in finding ways to improve your daughter’s listening skills. Perhaps, the teacher could ask your child the first question in a classroom discussion. It might also be effective to have the child sit in the first row in the classroom. ¶ Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ website at www.dearteacher. com. © Compass Syndicate Corp., 2015

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2016

SonomaFamilyLife 25

Q: What’s one of the biggest issues with using a pump at work?

Mom’s Office Hints for Pumping Breastaurant at Work By Sandra Gordon

or new moms, going back to work outside the home and continuing to breastfeed could be one of the most challenging endeavors they’ll ever attempt. Jessica Shortall, the author of Work. Pump. Repeat.: The New Mom’s Survival Guide to Breastfeeding and Going Back to Work (Abrams, 2015) should know. After she had her first baby, Otis, she circumnavigated the globe—breast pump in tow—as the director of giving for TOMS Shoes. “Closets, airplanes, trains, busses, cars, you name it, I did it,” she says. If you’re planning to work outside the home and want to keep the breastaurant open, read on for Shortall’s sanity-saving tips and product pointers. Q: Before returning to work, what can breastfeeding moms do to make pumping easier? Shortall: The biggest issue is building up a milk stash so you’re not worried about your baby having enough to eat while you’re at work. Shoot for storing up three work-shift days’ worth of feedings. It also helps to do a dry run before your first day of work. Put on the outfit you’re going to wear and see how hard or easy it is to use the pump. 26 SonomaFamilyLife

Q: Is a pumping bra necessary? Shortall: I didn’t use a pumping bra all the time. It was a bad idea because a pumping bra can help make sure the flanges are centered so you get better output and pumping is more comfortable. A good pumping bra, such as Pumpease, will hold [the flanges] firmly in place. There’s also one called Pump Strap, which is made out of neoprene. You can put it over your regular bra.

Shortall: The noise—just the fact that everyone can hear what you’re doing. The stress of the situation can hurt your letdown and output. If you need to pump during conference calls, in the restroom, or in a Mother’s Room that’s not exactly sound proof, check out the Ardo breast pump. It’s totally silent. Q: Any time-saving shortcuts you’d like to share? Shortall: The trick it took me a whole baby to learn is that you don’t need to wash breast-pump parts in between pumping sessions at work.

It helps to do a dry run before your first day of work. Put on the outfit you’re going to wear and see how hard or easy it is to use the pump. You just throw your pumping stuff in a waterproof bag into the office fridge, and it’s totally safe. Snugabell and others make a wet bag that’s opaque so nobody can see what’s inside. Q: Would you recommend having two breast pumps—one for home and one for work? Shortall: Yes, if you can afford it. Otherwise, if you leave the pump at home or just the tubing or the breast-pump connectors, you’re sunk. Q: Any hacks for promoting letdown, especially if you’re on the go? Shortall: It’s important to make your environment as relaxing as you can. I wore my headphones, turned up the

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

music, and shut my eyes to block out whatever weird place I was pumping in that day. Some people sniff something like a T-shirt that smells like their baby, or stick videos of their baby crying on their phone to help with letdown. Q: To make pumping at work possible, do you need a double electric pump? Shortall: I’ve met some women who swear they get more milk with hand expressing or a single, manual pump. I used a double electric pump as did most of the women I interviewed for Work. Pump. Repeat. and never looked back. Q: What other products can help make pumping more comfortable? Shortall: Pumpin Pal flanges! They’re compatible with almost every brand of breast pump. The

super shields are angled so you can sit more comfortably. They’re designed to mimic a baby’s natural latch and be less painful. Q: Any tips for pumping on business trips and navigating long meetings? Shortall: I advocate making allies. “Whom can I ask for access to a fridge?” was always at the front of

On business trips I always traveled with a manual breast pump just in case my double electric pump burned out. my mind. Also, on business trips I always traveled with a manual breast pump just in case my double electric pump burned out.

Local Breastfeeding Support Groups for New Moms Sonoma Valley Community Health Center. 19270 Sonoma Hwy., Sonoma. 939-6070. Mondays. 10 a.m. Free. Bilingual. Partners welcome.

Sandra Gordon is an award-winning writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting, and consumer issues.

STS For Less Stress, Fly

Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport Seattle (SEA)

Portland (PDX) TS

West County Health Centers. 652 Petaluma Ave., Suite F, Sebastopol. 824-3383. Fridays. Noon. Free. Lactation consultation in Spanish also available at meeting. Open to West County Health Centers patients only.

La Leche League International. Women’s Health and Birth Center. 583 Summerfield Rd., Santa Rosa. 523-8697. First Friday of the month. 10:30 a.m. Drop in. Free.

Shortall: In the beginning, I filled my breastmilk storage bags completely full. Then I realized that if you just put five ounces in each, they’d freeze into little bricks rather than big pouches. Bricks are stackable. You can use a storage organizer, or even just a shoebox, to stack the bags [in the freezer]. [Make sure] you’re using the oldest bags first—first in, first out. With thawing, a lot of breastmilk bags crack and leak. Thaw them inside a big Ziploc bag, just in case.

©P N

Sutter Medical Center (Warrack Campus). 2449 Summerfield Rd., Santa Rosa. 576-4857. Main entrance, second floor. Thursdays. 1 p.m. Free. Open only to patients and their partners.

Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa. 3925 Old Redwood Hwy., Santa Rosa. 393-4167. Medical Office Building 4, Room S1 and S2. Free. Kaiser members only. Time and dates vary. See website for details: tinyurl.com/zmhgtb2.

Q: Any tips for storing and thawing breastmilk?

Nonstop Service to & from Wine Country

Sonoma County Airport

(STS)

List courtesy of the Sonoma County Breastfeeding Coalition: sonoma-county.org/health/topics/ breastfeedingcoalition.asp.

Las Vegas (LAS)

Los Angeles (LAX) Orange County (SNA) San Diego (SAN)

Phoenix-Mesa (AZA)

www.sonomacountyairport.org

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2016

SonomaFamilyLife 27

August

Calendar of Events

Jump, Shout, Munch

wo of Sonoma County’s biggest draws are fresh fish and world-class wine. Find the best of both at the 22nd Annual Bodega Seafood, Art, and Wine Festival. Besides munching on calamari and sipping vino and beer, you can climb a rock wall and experience a Wake Attack inflatable trampoline. There will be plenty of live music as well, from gypsy jazz to world, and even performances by the Sebastopol Ballet School. When you aren’t dancing, you can browse the work of myriad local artists, be wowed by the creations of fruit and vegetable carvers, and watch chefs demonstrating their art. Kids can color in a giant mural and paint ceramics, too. The festival will run August 27, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., and August 28, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., at Watts Ranch in Bodega. Admission is $8–$20, free for kids under 12. Wine and micro-brewed beer tasting is $20. Purchase (online only) an entry and tasting-ticket package for $30. See bodegaseafoodfestival.com for more information. ¶

Monday 1 Sonoma County Fair. The Kids Area lets young actors put on a show. Movie-themed craft projects, hands-on activities, fun photo-ops, a special kids-only carnival ride area & more. Thru Aug. 7. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $6–$12. Ages 6 & under free. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett

Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. 545-4200. sonomacountyfair.com.

Wednesday 3 FREE Friends of the Healdsburg Library Summer Book Sale. Aug. 3: 1–6 p.m. Aug. 4 & 5: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Aug. 6: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Healdsburg Regional Library. 139 Piper St., Healdsburg. sonomalibrary.org.

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28 SonomaFamilyLife

Spanish for Kids! STUDENTS GAIN: • Academic Skills • Social Skills • Cognitive Development • Language Development • Creative Skills

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS CALL 707-624-5257

annaalonzolanguageacademy.com

Thursday 4 FREE Museum Storytime. Ages 0–5. Thursdays. Aug. 4 & 11. 11 a.m. Petaluma Historical Museum & Library, outside under the oak tree. 20 Fourth St., Petaluma. sonomalibrary.org. Hot Dog Thursday. 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $5 includes hot dog, chips, drink &

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August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

admission to museum. Pacific Coast Air Museum. 1 Air Museum Way, Santa Rosa. pacificcoastairmuseum.org.

Friday 5 Broadway Under the Stars: Dance the Night Away. Show-stopping numbers from tap to Fosse & everything in between. Aug. 5–7, 12–14 & 19–21. Picnicking: 5 p.m. Show: 7:30 p.m. $42. Jack London State Historic Park. 2400 London Ranch Rd., Glen Ellen. 877-424-1414. transcendencetheatre.org. Crazy, Awesome Science! Fridays.

2 p.m. $10 (admission to museum). Children’s Museum of Sonoma County. 1835 W. Steele Ln., Santa Rosa. 546-4069. cmosc.org. Day Out With Thomas. Take a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt & other Thomas-themed activities. Ages 2 & up. Thru Aug. 7. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $20. Roaring Camp Railroads. 5401 Graham Hill Rd., Felton. 866-468-7630. roaringcamp.com. Disney’s The Jungle Book. Youth summer musical theatre production specially adapted from the classic Disney-animated film. Aug. 5: 8 p.m. Aug. 6: 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. Aug. 7: 2 p.m. $10–$15. 6th Street Playhouse. 52 W. 6th St., Santa Rosa. 523-4185. 6thstreetplayhouse.com. FREE Bodega Marine Laboratory Tours. Explore the dynamic

biodiversity of the Northern California Coast. Fridays. 2–4 p.m. Bodega Marine Laboratory. 2099 Westshore Rd., Bodega Bay. bml.ucdavis.edu. Funky Fridays Concert. Live

music

& picnicking. Aug. 5: Tommy www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2016

SonomaFamilyLife 29

Thomsen (western swing). Aug. 12: Full Steem (mixed genre). Aug. 19: Volker Strifler (blues). Aug. 26: The Jami Jamison Band (blues & jazz). 7–9 p.m. $10. Parking $10. Hood Mountain Regional Park. Hood House. 1450 Pythian Rd., Santa Rosa. funkyfridays.info.

Saturday 6 9th Annual Petaluma Music Festival.

All-day festival with over a dozen bands performing. Benefits music education programs in local schools. Noon–9:30 p.m. $45. Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds. 175 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. petalumamusicfestival.org. FREE BioBlitz at Carrington Ranch. An intensive one-day study of biodiversity. All ages & skill levels

welcome. Register online. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Carrington Ranch. Meet at the turnout on Coleman Valley Rd., just east of Hwy. 1. parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov. FREE Cuentos y Cantos—Bilingual Story & Play Time. Exploraremos

cuentos, cantos y rimas en ingles y español. We will explore books, songs & rhymes in both English & Spanish. Ages 0–5. 10:15 a.m. Petaluma Regional Library. 100 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. sonomalibrary.org. FREE KidsWorks Creative Workshops. Sponsored by the Sonoma County Children’s Museum. First Sat. of month. 9 a.m.–noon. Friedman’s Home Improvement. (Under the giant canopy next to the garden center.) 4055 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa. cmosc.org.

FREE Nuestros Parques Hike. A bilingual naturalist leads these free, family walks. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Cloverdale River Park. 31820 McCray Rd., Cloverdale. 565-2041. parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov. Science Saturday. Join a Discovery Center naturalist for hands-on activities. This month includes a tide-pool talk & fun crafts. 1 p.m., 2 p.m., or 3 p.m. Free admission. Parking $7. Spring Lake Regional Park. Environmental Discovery Center. 393 Violetti Rd., Santa Rosa. parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov. National Lighthouse Day. Free admission to Point Arena Lighthouse. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 45500 Lighthouse Rd., Point Arena.

Fall into Health

&Wellness SATURDAY SEPT. 17 10am-2pm • 2455 Bennett Valley Rd., Ste. A-111

Meet the practitioners. Join us for free interactive demos. Get your questions answered! Energetic Healing • Tai Chi • Detox Chiropractic • Pilates • BEMER Clearing Clutter • Thermography 707-829-8668 30 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

FREE Summer Saturday Talk at Gualala. Bring the whole family

& your questions about the diverse resources in the area. May include a 1-mile hike. Aug. 6 & 13. Noon–2 p.m. Gualala Point Regional Park. 42401 Coast Hwy. 1, Gualala. parks. sonomacounty.ca.gov. National Lighthouse Day Tour.

Unique opportunity to visit the Lantern Room. $5. Children must be at least 42” to participate. Be sure to allow time for the half-mile walk to the lighthouse. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. 45300 Lighthouse Rd., Mendocino.

Sunday 7 FREE Check Center Back to School

get a free backpack filled with school supplies. Free food, snacks & raffles. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Check Center. 6650 Commerce Blvd., Ste. 9, Rohnert Park. 584-5710. Also at other locations in the Bay Area. checkcenters.com. FREE Live at Juilliard. Live music & picnicking. Aug. 7: The Bootleg Honeys (Americana). Aug. 14: The Norbay Awards (performances & awards presentations). Sundays. 5–7 p.m. Juilliard Park. 227 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa. ci.santa-rosa.ca.us. FREE Sunday Boating at the Barn.

Borrow a rowboat, canoe, kayak, or sailboat & spend the afternoon on the Petaluma River. Short safety demonstration required. Sundays. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. David Yearsley River

Event. The first 200 kids to arrive will

Change your own

motor oil?

Then do the right thing !

Recycle BOTH the oil & filter!

Get Complete Oil Recycling Info & Free-Drop-Off Location Listings at RecycleNOW.org Or Call the EcoDesk at: (707 ) 565-3375

www.sonomafamilylife.com

August 2016

BIKES

BOATS

CARS

FARM

SonomaFamilyLife 31

Heritage Center. 100 E. D St., Petaluma. friendsofthepetalumariver.org.

Wednesday 10 Parent Pediatric First-Aid Training.

Do you feel unprepared for falls at the park, or worry how you’ll respond in an emergency? This class covers infant & child CPR & basic first-aid skills. 6–8 p.m. $45. cmosc.org.

FREE Krush Backyard Concerts.

The Reverend Shawn Amos with the Tall Toad Experience. Bring low lawn chairs or blankets. Kids welcome. No pets or coolers. 6 p.m. 3565 Standish Ave., Santa Rosa. krsh.com. FREE Perseid Meteor Shower Star Party. 9 p.m. Robert Ferguson Observatory. 2605 Adobe Canyon Rd., Kenwood. 833-6979. rfo.org.

FREE Movies in the Park. Aug. 12: Hotel Transylvania 2. Aug. 19: Inside Out. Aug. 26: The Good Dinosaur. 8 p.m. Howarth Park. 630 Summerfield Rd., Santa Rosa. srcity.org.

Saturday 13

Friday 12

Thursday 11

through fun activities. Ages 6–12. 4 p.m. Healdsburg Regional Library. 139 Piper St., Healdsburg. Register: 433-3772. sonomalibrary.org.

43rd Annual Gravenstein Apple

FREE Night at the Museum. Enjoy

FREE Friends of the Petaluma

Fair. Live music, contests, activities,

free museum admission along with ice cream cake from Cold Stone Creamery of Sonoma County (while supplies last). 5–8 p.m. Charles M. Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. schulzmuseum.org.

Library Children’s Book Sale. Aug.

children’s corner, famous heirloom Gravenstein apples & more. Aug. 13 & 14. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $8–$15. Ages 13 & up who bike to the fair: $10. Ages 5 & under free. Ragle Ranch Park. 500 Ragle Rd., Sebastopol. gravensteinapplefair.com.

12: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Aug. 13: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Petaluma Regional Library. 100 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. sonomalibrary.org. FREE Mindful Minis. Playful yoga practice & exploration of mindfulness

ONE-CLICK GIVEAWAYS! Sign up for our weekly FUN BLAST & enter to win free goodies every week SonomaFamilyLife.com

Complimentary Kindergarten Exams Now through the month of August.

Call to schedule your appointment today! 660 3rd Street West, Sonoma • Habla Español (707) 938-9066 • www.synergydentalgroup.net 32 SonomaFamilyLife

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

FREE Galápagos Islands Through

Noon–5 p.m. Coddingtown Mall. 733 Coddingtown Ctr., Santa Rosa. facebook.com/the-martial-arts-familyexpo-984471378309771.

the Lens of Color. Explore color in

nature & the connections between the Galápagos and our home community. Taught by Rebecca Detrich, a Grosvenor Teacher Fellow with National Geographic. Ages 12 & up. 2 p.m. Guerneville Regional Library. 14107 Armstrong Woods Rd., Guerneville. sonomalibrary.org.

Tuesday 16 FREE Sonoma County Library Photography Exhibit 2016. Ages

12 & up. Aug. 16–19: Noon–6 p.m. (Reception: Aug. 17: 6–7:30 p.m.) Aug. 20: Noon–3.45 p.m. Aug. 23–26: Noon–6 p.m. Aug. 27: Noon–3 p.m. Rohnert Park–Cotati Regional Library. 6250 Lynne Condé Way, Rohnert Park. sonomalibrary.org.

Healdsburg Water Carnival.

$10 wristbands include boat ride, face-painting & more. Free admission. Parking $7. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach. 13839 Old Redwood Hwy., Healdsburg. parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov.

Wednesday 17

FREE Martial Arts Family Expo.

FREE Book Sale. Aug. 17: 4–8 p.m. Aug. 18–19: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Aug. 20: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Petaluma Regional

Live demos. Learn about karate, aikido, taekwondo, fencing & more.

707-433-3334

Thursday 18 Flynn Creek Circus. Acrobats, aerialists & daredevils. Aug. 18–20: 7 p.m. Aug. 20–21: 4 p.m. Aug. 21: 1 p.m. $12–$50. Keiser Community Park. 700 Windsor River Rd., Windsor. Tickets available online. flynncreekcircus.com.

Friday 19 Friday Family Night. Have a family

date night & play late at the Children’s Museum. 4–7 p.m. $10 (admission to museum). Children’s Museum of Sonoma County. 1835 W. Steele Ln., Santa Rosa. 546-4069. cmosc.org. The Silk Road Ensemble with Yo-Yo Ma. $25–$125.

Sonoma State

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Car Lot

Library. 100 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma.

Donation Center

“It’s like a Thrift Store Village” Kitchenware Collectables Snack Bar & Antiques OPEN Sallie’s - SAT Clothing MON 9:30-5:00 Barn

PARKING

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Mention this AD and receive a free family swim pass!

The Salvation Army

Lytton ARC

SONOMA COUNTY FAMILY YMCA 707-545-9622 x 3138 www.scfymca.org

Adult Rehabilitation Center

200 Lytton Springs Road, Healdsburg

Also visit our Santa Rosa Store at 1020 3rd Street, SR www.sonomafamilylife.com

Sonoma County Family YMCA●1111 College Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 The Y is a non-profit community organization●Financial Assistance is Available

August 2016

SonomaFamilyLife 33

IT PAYS TO

BUY LOCAL.

Find GO LOCAL businesses and Rewards Card offers at golocal.coop/businesses

University. Weill Hall & Lawn. 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. gmc.sonoma.edu.

Saturday 20 11th Annual Taste of Petaluma.

A culinary walking journey of Petaluma’s restaurants, galleries, shops, wineries, breweries & food purveyors. Benefits Cinnabar Theater. 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. $40. Downtown Petaluma. tasteofpetaluma.com. Colors of Spanish. Join Guadalupe

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www.crossandcrownschoolrp.org Preschool license #490100475

for a special Spanish story time. 10–11 a.m. $10 (admission to museum). Children’s Museum of Sonoma County. 1835 W. Steele Ln., Santa Rosa. cmosc.org. Family Overnight. Set up camp in

the zoo, meet with a zookeeper, take a guided nighttime zoo tour & more. Ages 6 & up. 5:30 p.m.–Aug. 21, 10 a.m. $90–$100. Discount for groups. San Francisco Zoo. Sloat Blvd. at Great Hwy., San Francisco. sfzoo.org. FREE River to Coast Children’s Services 40th Birthday. Food,

games, music & surprises. 1–4 p.m. Forestville Youth Park. 7045 Mirabel Rd., Santa Rosa. rccservices.org. FREE Santa Rosa Symphony Youth Ensembles Auditions. For 2016–2017 orchestral programs. Request audition appointment online. srsymphony.org. FREE Grand Opening. Windsor

It’s not just

Gymnastics...

It’s confidence for a lifetime! • Tumblebug Program for preschool-aged children • Boys & Girls Classes Recreation 6–12 • Tumbling & Tramp Classes

707-763-5010

www.regymnastics.com

34 SonomaFamilyLife

Music & Dance, the second location of Art & Soul Music. Meet staff. Live music & demos. Aug. 20 & 27. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. 9064 Brooks Rd. S., Windsor. 575-7701. windsormusicanddance.com.

Sunday 21 Annual Summer Picnic Party. Casual

summer afternoon event featuring live music, food & beverages. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. $12.50. Free for ages 12 & under. Marin French Cheese Company. 7500 Petaluma–Pt. Reyes Rd., Petaluma. marinfrenchcheese.com. Etiquette Tea & Lunch. Enjoy tea &

traditional English fare, while learning the basics of tea etiquette. Includes a 4-course meal. Gluten-free options. Ages 10 & up. Noon–3 p.m. $49. Reservations required. Tudor Rose English Tea Room. 733 Fourth St., Santa Rosa. tudorrosetearoom.com.

Tuesday 23 FREE Homework Help. Help with

all subjects on a drop-in basis. Grades K–12. Aug. 23, 25, 30. 3:30–5:30 p.m. Petaluma Regional Library. 100 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. sonomalibrary.org.

Wednesday 24 FREE River Friends of the Library Summer Book & Bake Sale.

Aug. 24: 4–7 p.m. Aug. 25–26: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Aug. 27: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Guerneville Regional Library. 14107 Armstrong Woods Rd., Guerneville. sonomalibrary.org. FREE Winging It Wednesdays.

Explore Sonoma County’s birding parklands along wheelchair accessible routes with an experienced birding guide. 8:30–10:30 a.m. Ragle Ranch Regional Park. 500 Ragle Rd., Sebastopol. parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov.

reg

redwood empire gymnastics

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Live Music  No Host Full Bar Raffle  Classic Cars  VIP Area Fun For All!!! NORTH &BAY

NORTH BAY RIB CHALLENGEBBQ CHALLENGE

Thursday 25

FREE Krush Backyard Concerts:

lowSEPTEMBER 29, 2013 Sonoma County Super Jam. Bring 12-4 PM

lawn chairs or blankets. Kids welcome. ROHNERT PARK COMMUNITY CENTER No pets or coolers. 5:30 p.m. 3565 NEW LOCATION!! Standish Ave., Santa Rosa. krsh.com.Live Music  No Host Full Bar

SATURDAY AUGUST 27, 11AM-5PM

& Fun For All!!! IS FREE

$15 $10 $10 $40

(2 ADULTS, 2 KIDS 12 & UNDER)

 VIP Area The Fantasticks. Sonoma Arts LiveRaffle  Classic CarsADMISSION

presents the longest-running musical in Broadway history. Neighboring fathers use a little reverse psychology & put up a wall between their houses Sue to ensure that their children fall in love. Thru Sept. 11. Aug. 25–27: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 28: 2 p.m. $15–$45. Sonoma Community Center. 276 E. Napa St., Sonoma. sonomaartslive.org.

ADULTS SENIORS (62+) 12 & UNDER FAMILY PAK

Sue

For more info: Rohnert Park Community Center

SUE PILAND • (707) 696-1210 suepiland@comcast.net POTATO SALAD www.loveinashoebox.com

BBQ RIBS • BBQ WINGS • BAKED BEANS • LIVE MUSIC • RAFFLE SHOW AND SHINE CAR SHOW

ADULTS a benefit for $15Love in a Shoebox • 707-696-1210 • www.loveinashoebox.com SENIORS (62+) $10 12 & UNDER $10 FAMILY PAK $40

sponsored by

(2 ADULTS, 2 KIDS 12 & UNDER)

For more info: SUE PILAND • (707) 696-1210 suepiland@comcast.net www.loveinashoebox.com

Friday 26 FREE Marvel Movie Marathon. Aug.

26–Iron Man: 6 p.m. Ant-Man: 8:15 p.m. Aug. 27–The Avengers: 3 p.m., Avengers: Age of Ultron: 5:30 p.m. Captain America: Civil War: 8 p.m. Sonoma State University. Weill Hall & Lawn. 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. 866-955-6040. gmc.sonoma.edu.

Saturday 27 22nd Annual Bodega Seafood, Art & Wine Festival. Rockwall, trampoline, face-painting & ceramic painting for kids. Color-in giant mural for all ages. Food, wine & beer tastings. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Aug. 28: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $8–$20. Free for kids under 12. Combined entry & tasting ticket $30. Watts Ranch. 16855 Bodega Hwy., Bodega. bodegaseafoodfestival.com. FREE 6th Annual Pacific Islander Festival. Traditional music, dance, arts, crafts & food. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Rohnert Park City Center Plaza.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

DOES YOUR CHILD KNOW HOW TO SWIM? Lessons offered at Finley Aquatic Center & Ridgway Swim Center Register now:

www.santarosarec.com 707-543-3737

August 2016

SonomaFamilyLife 35

475 City Center Dr., Rohnert Park. facebook.com/rpwarriorspifestival.

Just Floating Along

ooking for a new kind of sports entertainment? Check out the Great American Rubber Duck Dash at the Healdsburg Water Carnival. Besides rubber duckies with Olympic dreams, you’ll also find ambitious wine barrels racing downstream as well as a swan-turned-boat offering rides to wee ones. Enjoy live music, tasty food-truck eats, and children’s games, too. Don’t forget swimsuits so you and the clan can dip into the river. The event will be held on August 13, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., at the Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach in Healdsburg. Admission is free. Parking is $7. Buy a $10 wristband to get access to boat rides on Sandy the Swan, water activities, and face painting. Find out more information at parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov/_templates_ parks/EventDetail.aspx?id=2147518848. ¶

The Best Barbecue

o the neighbors go nuts over your grillin’? Take your special sauce to the North Bay BBQ Challenge, and find out if it’s really the best. If you are more interested in eating than cooking, there will be plenty of opportunities to pig out on contestants’ ribs, wings, and pulled pork. You can listen to live music and check out a Show and Shine car show, too. The event will be held on August 27, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., at the Rohnert Park Community Center in Rohnert Park. Contestant registration fee is $150–$250. Tasting tickets are $20–$60. Proceeds benefit Love in a Shoebox, a nonprofit that assists foster kids. See loveinashoebox.com to register and for more information. ¶

36 SonomaFamilyLife

FREE Friends of Santa Rosa Libraries Book Sale. Aug. 26: 10

a.m.–5 p.m. Aug. 27: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Aug. 28: 2–5 p.m. Central Santa Rosa Library. 211 E St., Santa Rosa. sonomalibrary.org. North Bay BBQ Challenge. BBQ, live

music, Show & Shine Car Show, raffle & more. Benefits Love in a Shoebox. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $20–$60 for tasting tickets. Rohnert Park Community Center. 5401 Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park. loveinashoebox.com. Star Party. Presentations

on astronomical topics throughout the evening. The observatory’s 3 main telescopes are open for public viewing. 8 p.m. $3. Under 18 free. Robert Ferguson Observatory. 2605 Adobe Canyon Rd., Kenwood. 833-6979. rfo.org.

Monday 29 Museum Mondays for Little Ones.

Ages 1–5. Last Mon. of month. 10 a.m.– noon. $5. Before 11 a.m., up to 2 adults per child are free. After 11 a.m., regular museum admission applies. Charles M. Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. schulzmuseum.org.

Wednesday 31 FREE BiblioBop Dance Party. Get

those wiggles out & show off your dance moves. Ages 0–5. 11 a.m. Windsor Regional Library. 9291 Old Redwood Hwy., Bldg. 100, Windsor. sonomalibrary.org.

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

They may never ask how you always know… all the coolest things to do & places to go. But they’ll always remember the fun! And you don’t have to reveal the source of your superpowers. Get weekly e-mail updates from the editors at Sonoma Family Life with all the latest LOCAL family-fun events, ideas, and outings. On your phone, tablet, or desktop…

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Cooking with Kids

A+ School Lunch How to Pack Healthy Meals with Kid Appeal By Lisa Ludwigsen

ach school year generates feelings of excitement and anticipation for so many new beginnings—new friends, new teachers, and the fun of learning new things. For parents, the school year also presents the challenge of creating yummy, nutritious lunches that kids will actually eat.

Chef Bridget Harrington, mom of two and co-owner of two local restaurants, Patrona and Chop Chop, has spent years figuring out the secrets to cool school chow. She says the best lunches keep processed products to a minimum, use high-quality food, and are fun to eat. She offers these suggestions for on-the-go kid grub. Be Prepared “Whenever possible, I make a big pot of something on the weekend that I can repurpose in lunches throughout the week,” Harrington offers. “A pot of rice or chili or a few chicken breasts go a long way in school lunches. If our weekends are just too busy, I keep a supply of healthy canned soups. I also buy beans and grains in bulk because of the quality and value pricing.” 38 SonomaFamilyLife

“My kids like having something warm for lunch, so I’ll heat up Amy’s Kitchen veggie chili and put it in a small, wide-mouthed thermos,” says Harrington. “The kids like topping it with a little grated cheese and using chips as dippers. It’s warm, crunchy, filling, and kind of fancy for them. In a pinch, I’ll also heat up a can of

“Whenever possible, I make a big pot of something on the weekend that I can repurpose in lunches throughout the week.” —Chef Bridget Harrington

chicken noodle soup for lunch. I can do it while throwing together breakfast and getting everyone ready in the morning.” Wrap It Up Looking for ways to sneak veggies into your kids’ diets? Wraps come to the rescue, says Harrington. “Kids don’t realize that a wrap is basically a mobile salad. I buy Sonoma Organic Tortillas and fill them with lots of lettuce or spinach, hummus or cheese, and turkey or chicken. My son’s go-to combo is goat cheese because it’s spreadable, sliced turkey, and a big handful of lettuce. I’ll use

one large tortilla and cut it in half for two days of sandwiches,” she suggests. Give Sugar the Stink Eye Ditch snacks made with refined sugar for healthy sweets like fruit, advises Harrington. For an extra-special chocolaty goodie, try Bridget’s Yogurt Chocolate “Pudding” (recipe below), which is sweetened with only a little maple syrup.

Bridget’s Yogurt Chocolate “Pudding” • Fill a small 2–4 oz. reusable container with Straus organic plain yogurt. Straus yogurt has the right consistency to make a pudding-like treat. • Mix in 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, to taste. • Stir in about 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder, such as Ghirardelli.

Whether your on-the-go meal is very basic or a bit more sophisticated, the important thing is that kids should enjoy eating it. Food should be celebrated and savored every day, including at school lunch. Lisa Ludwigsen is the marketing manager for the Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op, ukiahcoop.com.

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

Crafting with Kids

Apple Art Have Fun with Les Pommes

Core Candle Holders

By Denise Yearian

ugust’s Gravenstein Apple Fair in Sebastopol heralds the season of apple-based amusements. So why not carve out some core time with your family and enjoy these picks? (For more information about the fair, see page 9.) Core Candle Holders

• Apple corer • 2 apples with flat bottoms • Pen • Paring knife • Paintbrush • Lemon juice • 2 votive candles • Waxed paper 1. Use an apple corer to cut vertically halfway through the core of each apple. Carefully remove each core half, leaving the remaining portion of each apple intact.

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2. With a pen, draw a design (hearts, stripes, zigzags, etc.) around the skin of the apple.

2. Use a paring knife to cut away the skin of the apple in a smooth, circular direction.

3. Use a paring knife to carve out the design.

3. Cut out facial features, making sure you leave enough room between them because the apple will shrink as it dries.

4. With a paintbrush, apply lemon juice to the carved parts of each apple to prevent browning. 5. Place a votive candle into each partially hollowed-out core. Use a knife to widen the holes or, if the holes are too large, wrap waxed paper around the candles.

Pared-Down Puppets • Apple with stem • Apple corer • Paring knife • Lemon juice • String • Glove 1. With the apple turned upside down, remove the bottom half of the core using an apple corer. Leave upper stem intact.

August 2016

4. Soak the apple face in lemon juice for 10 minutes to prevent browning. 5. Tie a string around the stem and hang in an undisturbed location where nothing can touch it for three weeks. Let dry. 6. As it begins to dry, occasionally redefine the facial features. 7. Once dry, remove the stem. 8. Place a glove in your hand and insert your middle finger into the bottom where the apple core was partially removed. Use your thumb and pinky finger to create arms. Then put on a play. Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines, and the mother of three children and four grandchildren.

SonomaFamilyLife 39

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Counseling

Childcare/Preschools JANBOREE PRE-SCHOOL A fun filled curriculum for 3 & 4 year–olds. 8:30 –11:30 a.m. Mon.– Fri. $15 per day. Dunham-Hessel area. 795-8568. www.janboree.com License #490111872

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Services

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#1 local resource for local families magazine • web • email • events www.sonomafamilylife.com

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The Bridge School. Located in Central Santa Rosa, 1625 Franklin Ave. Year-round full/half–day. Rich nurturing environment. Center based program for ages 3–5 with separate 2’s program. Caring, qualified teachers. Julie & Andrew Day; owners. Lic.#493005697. 575-7959.

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Playtime Daycare/Preschool Join our loving family. Spacious playroom, large yard, meals provided. CPR & first aid certified. M-F. Infants & up. Call Wendy 539-7524. Lic. #04746.

SonomaFamilyLife 41

Humor Break

The Right Ingredients

Life Lessons Learned from Pancakes

By Patrick Hempfing

y daughter, Jessie, and I have made pancakes together since she was three years old. Now age nine, she still enjoys all the mixing, pouring, and flipping. In fact, she loves making pancakes almost as much as she loves eating them. However, because she smothers her cakes with creative combinations of powdered sugar, syrups, whipped cream, and cinnamon-sugar butter, eating them rates pretty highly. One recent Sunday, Jessie wanted pancakes instead of her usual oatmeal and yogurt, but we were almost out of mix. Undeterred, she went to her friend Google and found a pancake recipe. “It has all five-star ratings and one four-star rating,” she reported. Boy, she really didn’t want oatmeal. She began to call out the ingredients, but when she got to baking powder, I thought we were out of luck. I was confident we didn’t have any and checked the pantry just to make sure. “I know we have some, Dad,” Jessie said as she got up to help with the search. “I don’t think so, Jessie,” I replied with certainty. Nothing turned up, but Jessie persisted. She left no box unturned in the pantry and even searched the 42 SonomaFamilyLife

refrigerator. Before surrendering to oatmeal, I decided to check the cabinet, where I keep a few spices. There it was—the coveted white can. She had been right all along. We gathered all the ingredients and prepared to make five-star pancakes

Jesse loves making pancakes almost as much as she loves eating them. from scratch. Excited, Jessie decided to tweak the recipe a little. Let’s just say that, after her adjustments, the batter contained adequate sugar. As she mixed all the ingredients, I pulled out the electric skillet. “Don’t look, please!” Jessie directed, spatula in hand. As usual, she only wanted her mom and me to see the finished product. So I left her in charge and headed to the kitchen table to read the Sunday newspaper. As Jessie poured the batter into the skillet and joyfully flipped away, I couldn’t help but periodically peek up from my paper. It seems like only yesterday I was standing over her three-year-old shoulders to make sure she didn’t burn herself or fall off the

stool she used to reach the skillet. Six years zoomed by quicker than Jessie and I had found baking powder. As I reminisced, Jessie made cakes—two at a time. “I like dragging it out,” she said. She gave samples here and there to our dog, Sadie, while feeding me updates: “They’re thicker; they’ll be more filling.” “I burnt myself. I’m okay. It’s only a third-degree burn.” A five-star breakfast is a great way to begin a Sunday (especially for a dog), and I learned a number of things, too: Don’t rush to make microwaved oatmeal. Extra sugar makes pancakes sweeter. Have enough soap on hand for cleaning up after “not looking.” And, the big one, Dad isn’t always right. I also learned that besides eggs, flour, salt, sugar, milk, and baking powder, pancakes require another ingredient: patience—to teach, to learn, and not run to the rescue. Pantries can be rearranged. Spilled milk is easy to clean, as is egg slime dripping down the kitchen cabinet, though it takes some effort. Before long, Jessie will be ready to try another recipe. I don’t know if I’ll have everything she’ll need, but, regardless of my pantry’s status or my patience level, I’ll never run out of the most important ingredient—love. ¶ Patrick Hempfing is the author of MoMENts: A Dad Holds On, available on Amazon. Follow Hempfing at facebook.com/patricklhempfing and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing.

August 2016 www.sonomafamilylife.com

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