Sonoma Family Life January 2024

sonoma

FREE!

January 2024

Private Schools Our Local Guide

Hello Healthy Smoothie Recipe

Building Self Esteem How to Help Your Kids

Choosing a School Know the Options

THE SONOMA COUNTY LIBRARY Learn over 60 foreign languages —FOR FREE!

Make a difference

Be a Teacher

The North Coast School of Education's credentials are more affordable than college programs.

To learn more, visit ncsoe.org/teacher

Check out a FREE parking pass for state parks.

OPEN SUNDAYS

Now open Sundays, thanks to the Measure Y sales tax, your investment in a free public library

sonomalibrary.org

KARATE IS THE BEST THING child will develop supreme confidence, YOU CAN DO FOR YOUR CHILD! Your incredible self-control, laser sharp focus, exceptional fitness, rock solid self-respect, improved grades, and relief from stress.

“My daughter has grown so much in her confidence and willingness to step forward and help.”

—Justin Overshiner, Rosie age 4, Santa Rosa

“Our son is now a professor at an Ohio University. What he learned at Shotokan Karate Leadership School played a big part in making him into the man he is today.”

—Jim Thompson

1 MONTH FREE

and FREE Uniform for a Limited Time Call Now 707-575-1681 • Shotokan Karate Leadership School® visit our website AskAboutKarate.com • At the corner of Marlow and Piner Roads 2 SonomaFamilyLife

January 2024

www.sonomafamilylife.com

KIDS BOUNCING OFF THE WALLS DURING SCHOOL BREAKS? BRING THEM TO THE GYM! SPRING & SUMMER CAMPS

FREE MONEY FOR COLLEGE! Don't let financial barriers stand in the way of YOUR college dreams!

10,000 Degrees® supports students from lowincome backgrounds to, through, & beyond college. Get the resources and support you need to achieve your college and career goals.

Trampolines, pit, rings, bars, beams, padded floors and all of our specialized sports and games equipment. Mornings we have gymnastics, games, arts & crafts, and our popular jump zone time.

REDWOOD EMPIRE GYMNASTICS

NO GPA REQUIREMENT!

(707) 763-5010 • 434 Payran Street • Petaluma www.regymnastics.com/camps

10000DEGREES.ORG/FAM

ALL YOU CAN EAT LUNCH BUFFET

PIZZA & SALAD BAR $11.99

EASY ONLINE ORDERING MOUNTAINMIKES.COM

Santa Rosa

2280 Santa Rosa Ave 707-544-2828

Rohnert Park

1451 Southwest Blvd 707-795-4433

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Rohnert Park

6314 Commerce Blvd 707-303-7474

Petaluma

919 Lakeville St 707-769-8989

Cloverdale

Windsor

1143 S. Cloverdale Blvd 6580 Hembree Ln #258 707-751-6100 707-836-1700

January 2024

Santa Rosa

4501 Montgomery Dr. 707-890-5033

Santa Rosa

3125 Cleveland Ave 707-595-6505

Napa

1501 Trancas St. 707-669-5060

SonomaFamilyLife 3

January 2024

Every Issue 6

Dear Reader

7

Cooking with Kids Super Greens Smoothie

12 Features 10 A Choice Decision Tips for picking the right school for your family.

12 What’s in a Name Understanding different educational philosophies.

16 Sonoma Private School Guide Get familiar with all the local options.

Bits and Pieces Start Here A Story on Stage Starry Night

9

Symphony Sounds Storytime Fun in Spanish

20 Teaching Empathy and Self-Control Why social emotional learning is the new frontier for education.

Come Together

26 Calendar of Events 32 Humor Break The Oscars of Parenting

24 How to Build Children’s Self-Esteem Build resiliency young for a healthy future tomorrow.

7

8 4 SonomaFamilyLife

8

January 2024

www.sonomafamilylife.com

GET STARTED TODAY FOR JUST $

99!

Makethe ThisNew Start School Year Year Offa

RIGHT

StartWith WithSylvan!

Sylvan!

BRING ON THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR CONFIDENCE! Start the New Year OffWITH Right

Your Child Their in 2024!

EachHelp year brings on newReach challenges, but Goals adding Sylvan to your after-school will ensureroutine your child theyour support Adding Sylvan toroutine your after-school will gets ensure childthey gets the need to they transition confidence support need with to feel confidentand andstay stayon ontrack trackall allyear yearlong! long!

Homework TUTORING Support PERSONALIZED, IN-PERSON PERSONALIZED TUTORING In-Person or Online IN-PERSONProven, OR ONLINE personal and intensive tutoring programs.

If your child typically keeps up in class but needs Proven, personal and intensive tutoring programs

extra support with homework

• You'll see a direct impact in the school with state-aligned curriculum.

• Reduce stress and frustration for both you and

•with Your child Results will get a highly customized and adaptive learning plan Guaranteed • We tailor each session to your child’s individual ensures theycustomized masterand the skills they need to succeed, and • that Your child will get a highly needs, so concepts really click. Plus, your child adaptive learning plan that ensures he or she can get help with a wide variety of homework masters skills in math, reading, writing and dedicated more!

• Face-to-face attention and learning time with expert, subjects.

• caring Online or face-to-face attentionteachers. and dedicated credentialed • Our homework tutors understand today’s teaching learning time with expert, caring Sylvan-certified methods, so what your child learns at Sylvan teachers.see a direct impact in school with • You’ll state-aligned aligns with what’s expectedcurriculum. in school.

(And restore calm at home!)

Call 707-900-4445 Today your forchild.

More Information Tutoring startsand at$46/hr.

Packages start at$199/mo. to Get Started for Just $99!

Sylvan of Santa Rosa 1421 Guerneville Rd. Ste. 112

707-900-4445

info@myemailaddress.com santarosa.ca@sylvanlearning.com

READING | MATH | WRITING | STUDY SKILLS | SAT/ACT PREP *Valid at Santa Rosa, CA location only. Good through 2/29/24. Includes a Sylvan Insight Assessment, Personalized Learning Plan and first two hours of tutoring.

Dear Reader

N

ew month!

New year! New knowledge!

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

January is that time of year where we start to think about fresh starts, new experiences, and the chance to try out something different.

Our Calendar of Events (page 26) is loaded with fun activities. Challenge yourself to see or do something new with your family and make brand-new memories to start the year out right Looking for a surefire jolt of freshness to steer this year in a healthy direction?

Flip to this month’s featured recipe (page 7) for an epic green smoothie.

We hope you’ll find it is surprisingly kid friendly with creamy avocado and sweet apple juice balancing out all the do-your-body-good greens.

wide range of schooling choices available locally for your family and child. If the plethora of choices seem overwhelming, don’t fret, we are here to do everything we can to help you make empowered and informed decisions.

“What’s in a Name” (page 12) details different types of schools and their educational philosophies.“A Choice Decision” (page 10) will walk you step-by-step through the process of thinking about whether your child’s learning environment is working for them and how to seek out new options. From how to gather recommendations from other parents, to what questions to ask when making in-person school visits, we’ve got you covered.

Happy New Year from our family to yours! May your child’s school journey be a joyful one!

Our 2024 Private School Guide (page 16) is here to help you understand the

Marketing/ Sales/Events Patricia Ramos 707-205-1539 patty@family-life.us

Features Editor Tressa Eaton featureseditorfamilylife@gmail.com

Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us

Contributing Writers America’s Test Kitchen Shannon Carpenter Tanni Haas, Ph.D. Pam Moore Sandi Schwartz Denise Yearian

Billing Jan Wasson-Smith

Publishing Office

T

V A

L

BE

E

Y

TK SCHOOL TOURS!

N

E T

L

N

BENNETT VALLEY UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT

P.O. Box 351 Philo, CA 95466 (707) 205 1539

UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT SCHOLARSHIP MENTORSHIP FRIENDSHIP

LEARN MORE AT BVUSD.ORG/ENROLL

707.542.6272

TK STUDENTS TURN 4 K STUDENTS TURN 5

BY SEPT 1 OF SCHOOL YEAR

CALL NOW! LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE

DECEMBE

RY 24 • FEB R 20 • JANUA

RUARY 21 • M

ARCH 13

TK-3RD GRADE

4TH-6TH GRADE

YULUPA ELEMENTARY

STRAWBERRY ELEMENTARY

707.542.6272

707.526.4433

CALIFORNIA DISTINGUISHED SCHOOLS

6 SonomaFamilyLife

January 2024

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Cooking with Kids

Green Monster Super Greens Smoothie

By America’s Test Kitchen

T

o some, a super greens smoothie is the epitome of healthy. To make sure our recipe delivered on that, we loaded ours with six beneficial greens. For a nutritious smoothie that was fresh and pleasantly vegetal, we carefully chose spinach and parsley, bitter (but not too bitter) greens with plenty of fiber; broccoli, which is actually quite sweet; refreshing cucumber; and avocado as an emulsifier and creamy thickener that held the smoothie together. Our final “green” came from the superfood spirulina, a plant-based blue-green algae high in omega-3 acids with strong antioxidant properties. Because all those greens can taste intense, we wanted a natural sweetener. Orange juice was too acidic against the greens, but unsweetened apple juice was a perfect neutral sweetener that balanced out the bitterness and rounded out the drink’s flavor.

Blending the ingredients with 2 cups of ice added some light aeration and broke up all the fibrous vegetables for a smooth, drinkable texture. Either blue or green spirulina can be used in this recipe, but blue spirulina will affect the color of your smoothie. ❖ Used, with permission, from The Complete Guide to Healthy Drinks: Powerhouse Ingredients, Endless Combinations (America’s Test Kitchen, 2022), americastestkitchen.com.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Super Greens Smoothie Serves 2 1 cup baby spinach 2 cups ice 4 ounces cucumber, cut into 2-inch pieces (1 cup) 3 ounces broccoli florets, cut into 1-inch pieces (1 cup) ½ ripe avocado ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves 2 teaspoons spirulina (optional) 1 cup unsweetened apple juice, plus extra as needed In order listed, add all ingredients to blender and process on low speed until mixture is combined but still coarse in texture, about 10 seconds, scraping down sides of blender jar as needed. Gradually increase speed to high and process until completely smooth, about 2 minutes. Adjust consistency with extra apple juice as needed. Serve.

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 7

Bits & Pieces

Start Here

T

ake your passion for working with children, and turn it into a business offering high quality early childhood education. If you have always wanted to run your own in-home child care, the 4CS Sonoma County free information day on January 9 from 9 to 11 a.m. is the opportunity to learn more. The Zoom information session will include information on types of licenses, licensing requirements, licensing fees, and the average cost of care.

To register contact Sheila Whipple at 707-522-1413 Ext. #156 or swhipple@sonoma4cs.org.

A Story on Stage

I

f you have a child in your house that loves the children’s book Giraffes Can’t Dance, by Giles Andreae & Guy Parker-Rees, now is your chance to see this stage adaptation on January 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Ruth Finley Person Theater at the Luther Burbank Center. All the animals in the jungle know their own special dance, but Gerald the Giraffe can’t seem to move without a clumsy step. With the help of a wise cricket, Gerald finds his own song, and dances to the beat of his own drum, overcoming embarrassment and being teased along the way. The musical production highlights puppets, African rhythm, and lots of dancing on Gerald’s journey of discovering that differences are what make him special.

Starting one hour before the performance, there will be a fun art project in the lobby. Tickets are $16–$21 and lap passes for $5 are available on the day of the show for ages 2 & under. Get tickets at lutherburbankcenter.org.

Starry Night

N

ot quite ready to let the magic of the holidays go yet? Still need to take some more sparkly family holiday snaps? The Luther Burbank Sculpture Garden has you covered with the Northern Lights exhibition. Take this free self-guided walking tour through dazzling tunnels of twinkle lights and whimsical stops along the paths of the sculpture garden. You can catch the exhibit every day from dusk to 9:30 p.m until January 16. Find more information at lutherburbankcenter. org/northernlights.

8 SonomaFamilyLife

Northern Lights exhibition

January 2024

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Symphony Sounds

S

anta Rosa Symphony (SRS) presents “Charlie Brown Goes to the Symphony” at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 14 at Weill Hall at the Green Music Center. Conducted

by Bobby Rogers, SRS Youth Orchestra conductor, the music will bring the adored Peanuts gang to life. The 1-hour long concert is designed as a fun way to introduce children to the magic of classical music. There will even be a complimentary “Instrument Petting Zoo” one hour prior to the concert at 2 p.m, which provides an opportunity for youngsters (and curious adults) to handle and play orchestral instruments. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Get tickets and find more information at srsymphony.org.

Storytime Fun in Spanish

W

oodland Star Charter School in Glen Ellen offers a free, weekly Spanish Story Hour program for children ages 2 to 4 in the Sonoma County Latino community. Each one hour class will include singing, puppetry, and reading aloud. Join Saturdays from 10 to 11 a.m. on January 13, 20, 27 and February 3, 10, 17, and 24. All participants will learn fun language games to practice at home and receive free Spanish nursery rhyme books to take home. To register, please call Cristina Ruiz at 707-996-3849 or email cruff@ woodlandstarschool.org.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Come Together

E

ach year on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, volunteers across the nation donate their time and energy towards helping others and strengthening their local communities.

Join the Community Baptist Church, with support from the City of Santa Rosa, for A Day On, Not A Day Off! on January 15 from 9 a.m. to noon. The City of Santa Rosa’s Recreation & Parks department is supporting the volunteer clean-up at MLK Park, where volunteers can help beautify this neighborhood park through tasks such as litter pick-up, spreading mulch, weeding, and more. Tools and light refreshments will be provided. Get more information at tinyurl.com/mwperu5f.

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 9

A Choice Decision 12 Quick Tips for the Right School

T

By Denise Yearian here are a host of reasons why parents send their children to private schools. For some it is a smaller teacher-student ratio and more individualized attention. For others, it is the religious grounding their children receive.

For still others, it is to better address their student’s needs and cater to his academic timetable—be it a late bloomer or one who is gifted in math or art. But since no two schools are alike, where do parents begin their search for the right academic setting?

Consider these tips: 1. Get real with recommendations. Get input from other parents you know and trust. At the same time realize there is no perfect school or 10 SonomaFamilyLife

one-size-fits-all academic setting.

Every school has a different flavor; one is not necessarily better than another. It’s that one may be a better fit for your child.

2. Consider your child’s individuality. Take into account strengths, weaknesses, interests, and talents. Also mull over what sort of learning environment he would be most comfortable in. A self-motivated learner, for example, may do well in a program where he gets to direct January 2024

and carry out his own learning. But a child in need of constant direction might be more suited to a structured environment.

3. Make a list. Write down what you are looking for in a school. Be specific about ambiance, class size, teaching style, curriculum, the role of art and music, homework, and the role of parents in the running of the school. Then prioritize your list. Some things, such as class size, a strong art program or religious affiliation, may be non-negotiable. Other things would be nice but not necessarily mandatory.

4. Research options. Check out school’s websites that are potential candidates, or call and ask for more information. Consider each program, mission, services, faculty, and administration. What makes the school unique? What is its teaching philosophy? Is there a vision for the future? Is there anything the school does particularly well? What about www.sonomafamilylife.com

the curriculum? Will it cater to your child’s talents and interests?

5. Don’t let cost limit you. Look at a school, even if you don’t think you can afford it. Most academic institutions offer scholarships or have financial aid based on need, so ask about it.

6. Go the distance, if needed.

A ride as far as 30 minutes may be worth it if the school has an environment where your child will be happy and thrive. Look for someone to carpool with. Or use that distance to let your child study or spend quality time together.

7. Schedule a visit. Arrange to visit schools that meet your initial criteria. This will give you a feel for the school’s academic and developmental philosophy. Note, however, that even schools which adhere to like-minded philosophies can be tremendously different. A school that seemed to be the perfect fit on the internet or phone may prove otherwise once you have visited. And the school you weren’t initially drawn to may be the “one.”

That’s why it’s important that you go. Test it. Feel it. See what it is like.

8. Meet with authorities.

While visiting, spend a few minutes talking with the principal or school administrator. Discuss your child’s needs and ask if the school can meet those needs.

9. Make observations. If possible, sit in on classes and observe the teachers and students.

Write down obvious facts such as school and class size, ambiance as a whole and within individual classrooms, absence or presence of www.sonomafamilylife.com

Questions To Ask When Considering A School • What is the school’s philosophy on teaching reading?

• What kinds of books are the children expected to read? Who chooses them?

• How and when is writing and composition taught? Is there time for creative writing?

• Is the curriculum established or does it emerge from the students’ interests?

• How often do the children use textbooks? Workbooks?

Worksheets?

• When do children start getting homework? How much at what grades?

• How are the children assessed?

a dress code, and general demeanor of the students and teachers. Also record the students’ reactions. Did they feel comfortable and relaxed, or anxious and uptight?

10. Ask for references. If you haven’t already done so, get names of several parents whose children attend the school that would be willing to talk with you. Find out what they do and don’t like about the school. If you can, obtain a few names of parents who were not happy with the school and enrolled their children elsewhere. All schools have success stories, but no school works for every child. Find out about a child who did not thrive there so you can get a balanced perspective.

11. Get your child’s take.

Return to the schools that meet your January 2024

• When does computer education start? How much exposure per week do they get?

• What extracurricular activities are offered? Is it open to all children?

• How much time is spent on art, music, and crafts?

• Are there many opportunities for cooperative learning?

• How is discipline for improper behavior carried out?

• What kind of qualifications do the teachers have?

• Who makes decisions about the school?

• What level of parental participation is allowed or required?

criteria and bring your child with you. Have him meet the teachers, and if possible, spend time in a classroom with the other students.

What was his reaction? Did he seem comfortable with the school? The teacher? Other students?

12. Follow your intuition.

You know your child better than anyone else. If you have done your homework, you’ll know if it’s the right school for your child.

Sometimes it’s not necessarily a specific program or academic feature that lets parents know it’s a good match. It’s that intangible feeling: This is where my child can grow and academically succeed. ❖ Denise Yearian is a former educator and editor of two parenting magazines, and the mother of three children and seven grandchildren.

SonomaFamilyLife 11

educational focus, such as performing arts or math and science. Students are often selected through a lottery rather than on their academic merit or other factors like demographics.

What’s in a Name Understanding Different Types of Schools P

By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

arents who are looking for a school for their kids for the first time can be forgiven if they’re confused. There are many different kinds of schools, and it can be difficult to tell the difference between them. Here is an overview of the dozen most common school choices, so that parents can make informed decisions that best serve their child’s particular needs.

Boarding Schools Boarding schools are private schools where students live and learn together on a campus. You can send your kids to a boarding school from kindergarten right up through high school, or for a single school year.

They attract kids from across the globe, tend to have high academic standards, can offer lots of extra-curricular activities, foster close relationships between teachers and students, and

12 SonomaFamilyLife

are great if you want your kid to develop their independence and become more mature.

Charter Schools Charter schools are a specific kind of public school. Like regular public schools, they receive public funding.

However, they’re independently operated and have more autonomy than most public schools when it comes to curriculum and instruction.

They tend to have a specific January 2024

Distance-Learning Schools Distance-learning schools, also known as online or virtual schools, are schools where students receive instruction from home, similar to what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic school closures, but on a permanent basis. They can be public or private, and they often abide by the same educational regulations and standards as brick-and-mortar schools.

Parents often choose distance-learning schools because they like their convenience and flexibility.

District-Zoned Schools District-zoned schools, or neighborhood schools as they’re also known, are the formal name of regular public schools in your area.

These are publicly funded, follow state guidelines for curriculum and instruction, and are open to all kids living within their catchment area (or zone). Most parents send their kids to district-zoned schools because they’re conveniently located and their kids are virtually guaranteed to have their neighborhood friends as classmates.

International Baccalaureate Schools International baccalaureate (IB) schools are schools that are members of the International Baccalaureate Association, an international educational foundation founded in Geneva, Switzerland in 1968. They include both private and public elementary, middle, and high schools.

Students who graduate from these www.sonomafamilylife.com

academically-rigorous high school programs are highly competitive when they apply for admission to colleges and universities around the world.

Language Immersion Schools Language immersion schools are private and public schools in which all or most of the instruction is delivered in a language other than English.

The teachers are often fluent in two or more languages. The educational programs are typically designed for students whose native language is English, and they’re great if you want your kids to become fluent in another language. Common languages of instruction include Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish.

Magnet Schools Magnet schools are public schools

that are open to kids from multiple districts. Like charter schools, they operate alongside regular public schools, have a particular educational focus. Their instruction often emphasizes hands-on learning. Unlike charter schools, however, magnet

There are many different kinds of schools, and it can be difficult to tell the difference between them. schools don’t admit students via a lottery but instead try to promote a diverse student body in terms of demographics, while at the same time factoring in the academic merit of students.

Montessori Schools Montessori schools are private schools that follow the educational philosophy of the Italian physician Maria Montessori who promoted a child-centered approach that includes lots of hands-on exploration. Instead of a one-size-fits-all curriculum, Montessori schools appeal to each individual student’s interests and abilities. Another feature that distinguishes Montessori schools from traditional schools is that teachers stay with the same group of students for several years.

Parochial Schools Parochial schools are private Christian schools that operate under the auspices of local parish churches (hence the name). Parochial schools

FAITH. SERVICE. LEADERSHIP. TK-8TH GRADE

St. Vincent de Paul Elementary School offers a comprehensive Catholic educational program for TK-8 students. Because we provide a positive, safe, and structured learning environment, our students consistently perform at the top academic levels in our diocese and county. With a strong schoolhome partnership focused on morality, our students become responsible citizens and life-long learners.

Make way for TK for 2024-25!

Application available on our website www.svelem.org

(707) 762-6426 • www.svelem.org 246 Howard Street, Petaluma www.sonomafamilylife.com

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 13

teach regular academic subjects like language arts, math, science, and social studies in addition to offering religious instruction and prayer services. Parents often choose a parochial school because they want their kids’ education to be grounded in particular religious values.

Reggio Emilia Schools Reggio Emilia schools are private schools that follow a specific educational philosophy that was developed by parents living in the Italian city of Reggio Emilia in the 1940s. These schools assume that kids form their own personality and therefore have a student-centered curriculum that includes experiential learning, play, and self-expression.

Teachers focus on the interests of individual students, ask lots of

questions, and engage in activities alongside their students.

Special Education Schools Special education schools are private and public schools that serve students with special needs. Some focus on multiple needs, others on specific

Parents often choose a parochial school because they want their kids’ education to be grounded in particular religious values. learning differences. These can include communicative, physical, and social learning differences like ADHD, autism, and hearing impairment. Teachers are educated to

Now Accepting New TK–6th Grade Students for the 2024–25 School Year. www.rvusd.org

meet the specialized learning needs of students. They often have an extensive support staff of guidance counselors, psychologists, and social workers.

Waldorf Schools Waldorf schools, also known as Steiner schools, are private schools that follow the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, an Austrian philosopher and social reformer who promoted a specific kind of holistic learning that emphasizes practical skills, imagination, and intellectual development. Like Montessori schools, teachers stay with the same group of students for several years to foster a close and intimate mentor-mentee relationship. ❖ Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York –Brooklyn College.

YEARS Celebrating

YEARS as the #1 resource for local families

PREPARING CHILDREN TO BE LIFELONG LEARNERS ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE • CRITICAL THINKING • COMMUNICATION • COLLABORATION • CREATIVITY 707-542-9802 • 1000 Yulupa Ave. • Santa Rosa • www.rvusd.org

14 SonomaFamilyLife

January 2024

magazine • web • email • events www.sonomafamilylife.com

EARLY RELEASE

Enrichment

Our program for elementary school-aged children provides farm, nature, and art-based experiences during local schools’ early-release hours, as well as for home schooled children. Engaging activities and projects are introduced continuously, following themes that are inspired by the children’s and teacher’s interests. Homework support and a snack are provided.

ENHANCING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE “WHOLE CHILD”

Tues. & Wed. 12:30pm-4:30pm

Cross & Crown Lutheran School Preschool through 6th Grade.

Limited class size.

Classes start September 6th SPOTS STILL AVAILABLE FOR 2024-25 (707) 795-7863 www.crossandcrownschoolrp.org 5475 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park Preschool license #490100475

175 West Sierra, Cotati 707-664-5347

sandyloam.org/enrichmentprograms

LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP! KNOW YOUR OPTIONS FOR TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN We accept state subsidized vouchers for TK programs.

Call 528-6666 for more info.

DO YOU WANT TO OPEN YOUR OWN CHILD CARE BUSINESS IN YOUR HOME? JOIN US FOR 4Cs INFORMATION DAY

We strive to foster a child’s natural love of learning

TUESDAY JANUARY 9, 9-11AM, FREE ON ZOOM

Preschool for ages 2–5 years

Developmentally appropriate learning activities and social fun!

NOW ENROLLING FOR 2024-25

WOODSIDE WEST SCHOOL 2577 Guerneville Rd. • Santa Rosa • 707-528-6666 Lic#’s 490103579 & 490108547 • woodsidewestschool.com

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Learn about • Types of licenses • Licensing requirements • Licensing fees • Average cost of care • Child Care Initiative Project • And more

January 2024

To Register Contact Sheila Whipple 707-544-3077 swhipple@sonoma4cs.org

SonomaFamilyLife 15

Every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of the following information, but the information cannot be guaranteed. We recommend readers contact schools or visit their websites for the latest information.

2024 Sonoma County Private School Guide SCHOOL

GRADES

TUITION

CONTACT INFO

Healdsburg School

TK–8

$17,250–$17,800

33H, Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg 433-4847 • thehealdsburgschool.org

Rio Lindo Adventist Academy

9–12

$15,630–$29,120*

3200 Rio Lindo Ave., Healdsburg 431-5100 • riolindo.org

Saint John the Baptist Catholic School

TK–8

$10,000

217 Fitch St., Healdsburg 433-2758 • sjshbg.org

Harvest Christian School

TK–8

$5,000–$10,500

3700 Lakeville Hwy., Ste 210, Petaluma 763-2954 • harvestpetaluma.org

Saint Vincent de Paul Elementary School

TK–8

$10,395*

100 Howard & Union St., Petaluma 762-6426 • svelem.org

Saint Vincent de Paul College Prep

9–12

$20,350

849 Keokuk St., Petaluma 763-1032 • svhs-pet.org

The Spring Hill Montessori & Academy

TK–8

$21,000

705 N. Webster St., Petaluma 782-7836 • thespringhillschool.org

PK–6

Call for tuition

5475 Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park 795-7863 • crossandcrownschoolrp.org

Healdsburg

Petaluma

Rohnert Park Cross & Crown Lutheran Church & School *2023 rates

Discover

Now enrolling for 2024-25

Classical Education in a Christian Environment

Now accepting applications for 2024/2025

Join Our Community Apple Blossom Elementary School

Our mission is to nurture our students’ creative and critical thinking, academic proficiency, global awareness, appreciation for diversity and respect for themselves and others in a continually changing technological world.

Grade levels: TK-5 • Small class sizes: TK-3 average 20 and grades 4 & 5 average 26 Interactive, project-based learning • On-site pre-school Before and after-school care ART, MUSIC, GARDENING, SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The Art of Academic Excellence 707.823.1041 www.twinhillsusd.org

16 SonomaFamilyLife

700 Watertrough Rd. Sebastopol, CA, 707.823.6278 twinhillsusd.org

• TK-8th Grades | Small class sizes • Learn Latin, read novels, sing | Arts | Athletics • Safe, Challenging, & Fun Learning Environment!

CONTACT US FOR A TOUR HarvestPetaluma.org | info@HarvestPetaluma.org | 707-763-2954 January 2024

www.sonomafamilylife.com

2024 Sonoma County Private School Guide SCHOOL

GRADES

TUITION

CONTACT INFO

Cardinal Newman High School

9–12

$20,700

4320 Old Redwood Hwy., Santa Rosa 546-6470 • cardinalnewman.org

Quest Forward Academy

9–12

$17,500

1500 Farmers Ln., Santa Rosa 387-1663 • qfhs.org

Redwood Adventist Academy

K–8

Call for tuition

385 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa 545-1697 • weloveredwood.com

Saint Eugene’s Cathedral School

PK–8

$5,000

300 Farmers Ln., Santa Rosa 545-7252 • steugenesch.org

Saint Rose Catholic School

K–8

$8,950*

4300 Old Redwood Hwy., Santa Rosa 545-0379 • strosecatholicschool.org

Sonoma Academy

9–12

$54,140

2500 Farmers Ln., Santa Rosa 545-1770 • sonomaacademy.org

Sonoma Country Day School

TK–8

$33,500

4400 Day School Pl., Santa Rosa 284-3200 • scds.org

Summerfield Waldorf School & Farm

PS–12

Call for tuition

655 Willowside Rd., Santa Rosa 575-7194 • summerfieldwaldorf.org

Santa Rosa

A WELCOMING CATHOLIC COMMUNITY We welcome families of all faiths, providing an ideal environment for family involvement, spiritual growth, and personal growth.

Last year, our graduates were accepted to 196 colleges and universities and were awarded almost $10M in college scholarships.

GET TO KNOW CARDINAL NEWMAN! INQUIRE TODAY: CARDINALNEWMAN.ORG/ADMISSIONS

www.sonomafamilylife.com

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 17

2024 Sonoma County Private School Guide SCHOOL

GRADES

TUITION

CONTACT INFO

TK–12

$6,960–$12,900

4585 Badger Rd., Santa Rosa 539-1486 • victoryca.org

Presentation School

K–8

$19,400*

20872 Broadway, Sonoma 935-0122. presentationschool.com

Saint Francis Solano Catholic School

K–8

$10,668

342 W. Napa St., Sonoma 996-4994 • saintfrancissolano.org

K–8

$7,800-$9,420*

10285 Starr Rd., Windsor 838-3757 • windsorchristianacademy.org

9–12

$22,750

4026 Maher St., Napa 255-0950 • justin-siena.org

Santa Rosa Victory Christian Academy Sonoma

Windsor Windsor Christian Academy NAPA COUNTY Justin-Siena High School *2023 rates

Now enrolling for 2024-25

Grounded in Christ. Ready for the World.

The Art of Academic Excellence Twin Hills Middle School 6-8

A safe, small country school with high academic and elective standards. Teachers focus on character development and lifelong learning habits.

We offer a challenging high school prep environment.

NOW ENROLLING TK-12th Grades | Private | Accredited

Electives: Culinary arts • Dance • Spanish • Music • Art • Photoshop • Video editing • Technology

Charter Middle 6-8

DE

CH

A

C

R

18 SonomaFamilyLife

700 Watertrough Rd. Sebastopol, CA, 707.823.6278 twinhillsusd.org

A

O

Y

Are you ready for a challenge?

707.823.7446 www.twinhillsusd.org

MY

VICT

MATHEMATICS ENGLISH • SCIENCE CREATIVE ARTS ATHLETICS • HISTORY

RISTIAN

• Christ-focused • Choir / Band / Art • P.E. / CIF Sports • Student Council • Weekly Chapels • Traditional Academics

Contact us for a tour (707) 539-1486 | 4585 Badger Rd., Santa Rosa | VictoryCA.org January 2024

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Never

Underestimate the Power of the Purse Moms typically control 80% or more of their household budgets They’re looking right here, to find you.

Call now. Don’t miss another month.

• Small Schools with a Big Family Feel!

• All TK-3rd Grade Teachers Trained and Implementing Science of Reading Based Curriculum and Strategies • District-wide Social-Emotional Curriculum • Hands on Science Learning in Every Classroom • Charter Focus at Each School Including Dual Immersion, Arts and Ecology, STEM, and Music • Before and After School Child Care Programs • Physical Education Instruction, Music Classes and School Libraries

ONLINE • EVENTS • CONTESTS

La Tercera Elementary School Loma Vista Immersion Academy Charter School Miwok Valley Elementary Charter School Old Adobe Elementary Charter School Sonoma Mountain Elementary Charter School

707 205-1539 SonomaFamilyLife.com

www.sonomafamilylife.com

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 19

Teaching Empathy and Self-Control The New Frontier of Social Emotional Learning

By Pam Moore

“M

ore Goldfish!” my five-year-old demands.

I summon all my patience. “Can you try that again?”

“I’m hungry!”

I take a long blink. “Honey? Can you—” Her face is still beet red, but her body has relaxed. She takes a deep breath, then slowly blows the air through her pursed lips. This is the “birthday cake” breathing she learned in kindergarten.

“Mom, can I please have more Goldfish?”

20 SonomaFamilyLife

My daughter attends public school, in Boulder, Colorado, where her teacher is one of a handful of educators integrating social and emotional learning (SEL) into the classroom. SEL is based on five core competencies—self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Gaining these skills can make children and parents happier while improving academic performance.

With a growing body of research supporting SEL as a driver of academic performance, emotional January 2024

well-being, and positive school culture, its rising popularity is not surprising.

While school districts are starting to adopt SEL, it’s not the norm. If your child’s school has yet to embrace it, Jennifer Miller, SEL expert, offers tips for parents.

Create a Plan Miller recommends creating a “Family Emotional Safety Plan,” so when emotional disaster strikes, you’re ready. It can be as simple as “When mom is angry, she’ll say ‘I need five minutes’ and then she’ll go in her room and shut the door while she cools down.” Explaining the plan in advance precludes your child from anxiously wondering, “Why is she leaving me?”, says Miller. Additionally, it highlights the importance of self-awareness for both children and parents.

Make a Pledge While family arguments are natural, they’re not always healthy. According to Miller, data support specific types of fighting. While particular words, www.sonomafamilylife.com

attitudes, and actions can leave emotional scars, others strengthen relationships. Miller’s “Fighting Fair Family Pledge” sets boundaries on language and actions to avoid (e.g., criticizing, blaming, name-calling), while offering effective alternatives (like taking responsibility and focusing on solutions). She says even if you only adopt this pledge within your marriage, your kids will still benefit.

“Children learn most and best from modeling so even if we only adopt boundaries for fighting with our partner, we can watch the ripple effect throughout our family as children begin to use similar strategies.”

Use Challenges as Learning Opportunities Miller says when faced with parenting challenges, it’s crucial to ask, “What skill does

my child need to learn?” While being clear on what behaviors are unacceptable, we must teach our kids how to engage in the practices we do want to see. For example, if your child

As a parent, I see the benefits of SEL daily. I see it when my daughter chooses deep breaths over screaming. continually takes her younger sister’s doll, instead of repeatedly telling her not to, Miller encourages parents to use this situation as a teachable moment. “You might say, ‘You really want to play with your sister’s doll.

Let’s see if there are ways we can play that keep everyone happy and

also give you a chance with the doll.

Hmmm, what could we do?!’ Get your child involved.” You can also have your child teach the behavior to a toy to make the lesson more fun.

Miller recommends giving positive reinforcement when your child approaches a challenging situation in a constructive way. “Your specific recognition can go a long way toward promoting new positive choices.”

As a parent, I see the benefits of SEL daily. I see it when my daughter chooses deep breaths over screaming when I brush her hair, when she asks her little sister to take turns, and when she tells herself, “I can do it” before attempting the monkey bars. I see it when she says, “Oops. I made a mistake. I’ll take a deep breath and try again.”

sonoma

LOCAL for 30 years

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

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 21

sonoma magazine • web • email

#1 local resource for local families

LOCAL for 30 years

In my daughter’s class, SEL isn’t a separate lesson. Her teacher, Donna Young, infuses it into the classroom culture, which emphasizes relationships. “We are first and foremost, a school family,” says Young. Every morning, she crouches to make eye contact while greeting each child by name. Intermittently throughout the day, the class does

Give positive reinforcement when your child approaches a challenging situation in a constructive way.

One-to-One Instruction™ Life-Changing Results Students enrolled at The Tutoring Center®, Santa Rosa, rapidly increase their academic skills and improve their concentration span.

Friendly and Helpful Instructors Who Really Care About My Child

FREE

Diagnostic Assessment in Reading and Math

(707) 521-9590 www.tutoringcenter.com 594 Larkfield Center, Santa Rosa 22 SonomaFamilyLife

January 2024

calming breathing exercises together.

Young strives to model self-regulation; strategically placed sticky notes serve as reminders. When she falls short, she tells her students what she was feeling, what she did, and what she’ll do differently next time. “This just reinforces that everyone makes mistakes, all the time, every day, and it’s okay.”

SEL skills like self-regulation and empathy aren’t just beneficial for kids. Young wishes she knew about SEL when her kids were growing up. “If I had had the knowledge and self-awareness that I have now, I would have parented in a different way. I believe I would have had more compassion for myself and my mistakes as a parent of young children.” ❖ Pam Moore is an award-winning freelance writer, intuitive eating coach, and host of the Real Fit podcast. Get her free guide to improving your body image at pam-moore.com.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Now Accepting Applications

• Paid job training.

• Part-time.

• Health benefits.

• CalPERS retirement.

• Winter & Spring Breaks off.

• Summers optional.

• Paid sick leave, holidays, & vacations.

The YMCA Preschool provides your child with high-quality, age-appropriate activities and enjoyable experiences. Personal attention, rich sensory experiences, and a generous supply of giggles!

START YOUR NEW CAREER!

Part-Time/Full-Time Care Flexible Plans Available Serving Infant–5 Years

CALL NOW 707-206-9988

707 308-3043 • www.scfymca.org 2590 Piner Rd. Santa Rosa

367 West Robles Avenue, Santa Rosa • www.schoolbusing.org

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR NEW ADULT CLASSES

LOVE TO DANCE?

JOIN OUR LOVING FAMILY keep little bodies & brains active & learning!

WE LOVE TO DANCE AND YOU CAN TOO!

PLAYTIME DAYCARE & PRESCHOOL www.facebook.com/PlaytimeDaycareAndPreschool

539-7524 Rincon Valley Area. Lic. #04746

www.sonomafamilylife.com

The Keenan School works to bring the fun and joy of traditional Irish dance to all! From the age of 3 to the teen years, dancers of all levels of interest and experience have a place here.

PLEASE CALL FOR COMPLIMENTARY CLASS 326 Petaluma Blvd. North • (707) 479-1128 Keenan5678@att.net www.keenanirishdanceschool.com

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 23

important than whether they win or lose, pass or fail.

Show them you understand them. When kids feel understood by a parent, they are likely to accept themselves, too. Keep the line of communication open and be a supportive listener.

How to Build Children’s Self-Esteem

Building Resiliency For a Healthy Future

D

By Sandi Schwartz

o you know how your children feel about themselves? The way we feel about ourselves falls under the umbrella of self-esteem.

We hear about self-esteem so much during the teenage years, but building healthy self-esteem begins much earlier in a child’s life.

Children who have healthy self-esteem feel valued, accepted, confident, and proud. They think positive things about themselves and are prepared to face everyday stresses and challenges.

How To Raise Children With Healthy Self-Esteem Although self-esteem begins forming at a very early age, we can take action to build confidence at any time. A healthy level of confidence will help our children immensely, from minimizing the effects of anxiety to so many other important benefits that will help them be successful.

The first aspect of self-esteem that we need to realize as parents is that our children do not become confident because we praise them constantly and reward them for 24 SonomaFamilyLife

every little move they make. Instead, children need to lose and fail in order to build resiliency so they can keep on learning and growing.

Self-esteem results from experiences in which children feel accepted, capable, and effective. Here are some ways that you can help your child build their self-esteem based on these three criteria: Accepted Love your children unconditionally. Let your children know that you love them no matter how much they fail or how many bad decisions they make.

Let them know that perfection is not the goal. Learning, growing, trying new things, and experiencing all that life has to offer is more January 2024

Make them feel special. Help your children discover their interests, talents, and strengths and teach them that it is ok to feel proud of their own accomplishments.

Children who have healthy self-esteem feel valued, accepted, confident, and proud.

Avoid harsh criticism. Be careful how you speak to your children—the words and tone you use impact their self-worth.

Capable Praise strategically. Praising our kids too much can backfire.

Try praising their effort or attitude as opposed to qualities they can’t change like their athletic ability.

Also, avoid focusing on results (such as getting an A) and more on the hard work they put into something.

Let them do things themselves.

Step back and allow your children to try new activities without holding their hand. Give them the space to take risks and make mistakes so they can learn how to solve problems on their own. They will feel so proud when they accomplish tasks by themselves.

Support them from a distance.

When teaching them how to do new www.sonomafamilylife.com

things, let them know that you are available to help them if they need it. Then let them do what they can, even if they make mistakes. Keep challenging them to reach new levels.

Expand their horizons. Give them plenty of opportunities to try new activities, see new places, and meet different people. The more their comfort zone expands, the better they will handle worrisome situations in the future. If they are scared, encourage them, but don’t push too hard.

Effective Set realistic, attainable goals. By setting goals, we help encourage our children to take on new challenges.

Then when they reach them, they are so happy and proud of their accomplishments. Be sure to set

SMART goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely. Being flexible is also important throughout this process.

Let them make their own choices. Give your kids the chance

the consequences of their decisions and to take responsibility for their actions. A really good trick is to give them three options to choose from, which still gives them a sense of empowerment.

Children need to lose and fail in order to build resiliency so they can keep on learning and growing.

Give them responsibilities. In building self-esteem, kids need opportunities to demonstrate their competence and value. Give them some simple chores to do around the house—no reward necessary because their reward will be how proud they feel. ❖

to make some age-appropriate choices, such as picking out their own clothes, what snack to eat, or which toy to take on vacation. Allowing our kids to make their own decisions will help them feel powerful and confident.

They will also learn how to consider

Sandi Schwartz is a multi-awardwinning author, freelance journalist, and mother of two. Both her parenting books, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, and children’s book, Sky’s Search for Ecohappiness, are available now.

¿QUIERE ABRIR SU PROPIO CUIDADO DE NIÑOS EN SU HOGAR? ÚNASE A NOSOTROS PARA 4Cs DÍA INFORMATIVO

MIERCOLES 10 DE ENERO DE, 9-11AM, FREE ON ZOOM Aprender acerca • Tipos de licencias de cuidado de ninos • Requisitos para las licencias • Tarifas de licencia • Promedio del Costo de Cuidado Infantil • Proyecto Iniciativo de Cuidado Infantil– CCIP • y mucho mas

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Para Registrarse Contacto Mari Roman 707-544-3077 mromanromero@sonoma4cs.org

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 25

January

Calendar of Events Monday 1 FREE First Day Hike: Armstrong Woods. 1.5 miles; 2 hrs. Parking $10. All ages welcome. 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Hikes start every hour. Armstrong Redwoods Visitor Center. 17000 Armstrong Wood Rd., Guernville.

Find 60 more California State Park First Day hikes here: tinyurl. com/4f6z5pms.

FREE First Day Hike: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Choice of 5.25–6.5

mile, or naturalist-guided 2-mile family hike. Parking $10. Bald Mountain Hike: 9 a.m. (Meet at the White Barn). Family Hike: 10 a.m. (meet at the Visitor’s Center). Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. 2605 Adobe Canyon Rd., Kenwood. Registration required: tinyurl.com/dx5dbyex.

First Day Hike: Jack London State Park. Admission $10. Parking $10.

Meet in the upper parking lot. 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Jack London State Park. 2400 London Ranch Rd., Glen Ellen. Tickets: tinyurl.com/5n7m5xvs.

FREE LBC Sculpture Garden Northern Lights. Self-guided tour winter lights art walk through tunnels of twinkle lights & whimsical stops along the paths. Dusk to 9:30 p.m., runs thru January 16. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. lutherburbankcenter.org/ northernlights.

Wednesday 3 Nature Explorers: Saplings.

Hands-on program for ages 4 & up, experience and explore nature with a 26 SonomaFamilyLife

California Naturalist. Members: free.

Non-members: $16. Infants 11 months & younger: free. Discounts available for qualifying guests. Wednesdays & Thursdays. 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Children’s Museum of Sonoma County. 1835 W. Steele Ln., Santa Rosa. cmosc.org/events.

FREE Postpartum Planning for Expectant Parents. 2-hour online class for expectant parents, moms, birthing people, non-gestational parents, partners, couples, & single parents (2nd & 3rd trimester). Held first & third Wednesdays of the month.

Jan 3: 4:30 p.m. & Jan. 17: 10 a.m.

Registration required: postpartum.net/ postpartum-planning-for-expectantparents.

Sandy Loam Early Release Enrichment. For elementary

school-aged children who have 1/2 days on Tuesdays & Wednesdays.

Farm, nature & art-based experiences, snacks provided. $10 a day & up.

Tuesdays & Wednesdays: 12:30–4:30 p.m. Veronda-Falletti Ranch. 175 W. Sierra Ave., Cotati. Registration required: sandyloam.org.

Meditation Ancient Ways for Modern Times. Five evenings of meditation & discussion to cultivate self awareness, connection, calm & joy. $25-$30 “Y”members. $35 non-members. Financial assistance available. Wednesdays. Jan. 3–31.

5:30-6:30 p.m. Sonoma County Family YMCA. 1111 College Ave., Santa Rosa.

Register: tinyurl.com/632kxddb.

January 2024

Friday 5 Living Sculptures: The Art & Science of Bonsai. New exhibition,

featuring more than 15 miniature masterpieces. $8–12. Ages 12 & under: free. Discounts available for qualifying guests. Runs thru March 5. Open daily: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (closed Tuesdays).

Sonoma Botanical Garden. 12841 Hwy. 12, Glen Ellen. sonomabg.org.

The Last Five Years. Young couple

chronicles the five year life of their marriage, from meeting to break-up & from break-up to meeting in this modern musical. Jan. 5-6, 12-13, 19-20: 7:30 p.m. Jan 7, 14 & 21: 2 p.m.

Cinnabar Theater. 3333 Petaluma Blvd N. Petaluma. cinnabartheater.org.

FREE Young Astronomers/Striking Sparks. Hosted by Robert Ferguson

Observatory. Virtual meeting for kids in Grades 4–9 who are interested in all things space. 5–8 p.m. Email ncummings@rfo.org for Zoom link. rfo.org.

FREE MLK Jr. Writing Workshop for Teens. Led by local educators,

the writing workshops support the 44th Annual Sonoma County Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Birthday Celebration. Grades 7–12. All material provided. Walk-ins welcome. 3 p.m.

Sonoma Valley Regional Library.

755 W. Napa St., Sonoma. tinyurl. com/4t6fbaex. Other libraries will host this event, visit events.sonomalibrary. org for branches/times.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Saturday 6 Disney’s Finding Nemo JR.

60-minute musical adaptation of the 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo. $17–$26. Jan. 6: 3 p.m. Jan. 13: 1 p.m. & Jan. 20: 1 & 3 p.m. The California Theatre. 528 7th St., Santa Rosa.

Tickets: tinyurl.com/32m723hx.

mushrooms. This event is planned around a primarily Spanish-speaking Latino audience. Entry: $5–$10. Ages 18 & under: free. $10 parking. 9:45 a.m.–noon. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.

2605 Adobe Canyon Rd., Kenwood.

Tickets: tinyurl.com/3rdeyxns.

Crab Feed & Dance. Ages 6–12: $35.

13 & up: $75. Hosted by the Senhor Santo Cristo Society of Petaluma.

Dinner: 6 p.m. Petaluma Holy Ghost Hall. 4649 Bodega Ave., Petaluma. tinyurl.com/3thu5a6z.

Science Saturdays: Marshmallow Catapults. Kids-only, interactive

FREE An American Tail. Screening

of 1986 animated movie. Part of the monthly Family Matinee series.

Jan. 6 & 7: 11 a.m. Rialto Cinemas Sebastopol. 6868 McKinley St., Sebastopol. tinyurl.com/4xtt6ub8.

Tuesday 9 FREE 4Cs Information Day. Learn

how to open your own childcare business in Sonoma County. 9 –11 a.m. Call or email for Zoom link: 707-522-1413, ext 156. or swhipple@ sonoma4cs.org.

Thursday 11 FREE King Tide Kick-Off. A rare

opportunity to observe both the highest & lowest tides of 2024 with Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods.

King High Tides: 9:30–11 a.m.

Tide-Pool Sunset Walk: 3:30–5 p.m.

Campbell Cove. Sonoma Coast State Park. Hwy. 1, Bodega Bay. Register: stewardscr.org/events.

Friday 12 Fences. A play about family,

responsibility, love, friendship, and respect. $29-40. Jan. 12–13, 18–20, 25–27: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28: 2 p.m. Runs thru Feb. 4. 6th Street Playhouse 52W. 6th St., Santa Rosa.

6thstreetplayhouse.com.

Saturday 13 Senderos: ¡Hongos! Discover

the weird & wonderful world of www.sonomafamilylife.com

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 27

FIND YOUR SPORT FIND YOUR Y VOLLEYBALL

Registration begins Jan 2, 2024.

TRACK AND FIELD BASKETBALL LEAGUE

SONOMA COUNTY FAMILY YMCA SPRING SPORTS

Register at www.scfymca.org Questions? Contact Crystal Sowards csowards@scfymca.org The Y is a leading charitable organization committed to improving our community’s health. Financial assistance is available.

Sonoma County Family YMCA • 1111 College Avenue Santa Rosa, CA 95404 • P 707 545 9622

It's a New Year, Try Something New! Classes for Tots to Seniors

science hour. Ages 6–12. Held the second Saturday of each month. $10–$12. Parking $7. Two Sessions: 11 a.m.–noon & 1–2 p.m. Environmental Discovery Center. 393 Violetti Rd. Santa Rosa.

Register: tinyurl.com/ydv5n5fv.

Sunday 14 Wacky Family Breakfast Class.

Led by author & chef, Sheana Davis.

Make homemade waffles, new butter flavors, and enjoy a family breakfast. For all ages. Admission: $25. Family Admission: $20 per ticket, minimum of 4. 10 a.m.-noon. Sonoma Community Center. Rotary Kitchen.

276 E. Napa St., Sonoma. Register: tinyurl.com/4dbrw8kz.

Charlie Brown Goes to the Symphony. Performance by Roustabout Theater Conductor, Bobby Rogers, and the Santa Rosa Symphony. $10–$20. 3 p.m. Weill Hall at the Green Music Center. 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. tinyurl. com/3kxn592r.

FREE It Starts With Hello

Plus, start training now for the St. Patrick's Day 5K!

SantaRosaRec.com 707-543-3737

28 SonomaFamilyLife

January 2024

Workshop. 6-month workshop for teens & adults with disabilities.

Participants learn how to share their story & feel more confident communicating. 1–2 p.m. Common Ground Society. 85 Brookwood Ave., Ste. 12, Santa Rosa. Register: commongroundsociety.org/calendar.

Monday 15 FREE Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. A Day On, Not A Day Off!: Help clean up the park. Tools, gloves, materials & refreshments provided. 9 a.m.–noon. Martin Luther King Jr. Park. 1208 S. Hendley St., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/mwperu5f.

www.sonomafamilylife.com

FREE Martin Luther King Jr. Workday. Volunteers will work to

spread mulch, improve park paths, and pull weeds. All the necessary tools and supplies, along with snacks and drinks, will be provided.

Parking fees waived for volunteers. 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Andy’s Unity Park.

3399 Moorland Ave., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/4kfj6x42

Tuesday 16 FREE Bilingual Dog Training. Dog

training session offered in Spanish & English with a certified dog trainer.

3:30–6 p.m. For more information, contact Alexis Puerto-Holmes at communityengagementprograms@ sonoma-county.org. No registration required. Andy’s Unity Park. 3399 Moorland Ave., Santa Rosa. tinyurl. com/4jmmx4x5.

Library. 755 W. Napa St., Sonoma. No registration required. rfo.org.

FREE Arts Alive. Live music, dance,

theater, improv, storytelling, art demonstrations, poetry, photography, & more. Held on the third Thursday of the month. 5–8 p.m. Downtown Petaluma. petalumadowntown.com/ arts-alive-petaluma.

Giraffes Can’t Dance: The Musical.

Clover Sonoma Family Fun Series.

Based on the book by Giles Andreae & Guy Parker-Rees. $16–$21. Lap passes for $5 available day of the show, in-person at the ticket office for ages 2 & under. 6:30 p.m. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/s2ac9e23.

Friday 19 Sparkle Time Registration & Open House. Learn about Sparkle Time

program, a 12-week arts, nature & awareness program held on Wednesdays, 2–5 p.m. Beginning on February 14th for ages 5–12. 2–4 p.m. Jendala Studio, 444 Moore Ln, Healdsburg. heartizens.org/ event-calendar.

Saturday 20 Kids Night at the Museum. Pizza,

games, cartooning & crafts. Ages 5–10. 10% sibling discount. 5:30–9 p.m. Charles Schulz Museum.

2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa.

Pre-registration: tinyurl.com/2s4e46tt.

DAV 3rd Annual Crab Feed. All

you-can-eat crab. Wine/beer, raffles

Wednesday 17 Start off the New Year with Charlie Brown and the Symphony!

FREE Walk Through the Grades Tour. Peek into Waldorf classrooms

from preschool through Grade 12.

Check out the campus & working biodynamic farm. Adults only. 9–11 a.m. Summerfield Waldorf School & Farm. 655 Willowside Rd. Santa Rosa.

Register: summerfieldwaldorf.org.

Thursday 18 FREE VCA Open House. All

prospective new families interested in TK–12th grades. 4–5 p.m. Victory Christian Academy. Room 3/4. 4585 Badger Rd., Santa Rosa. RSVP: tinyurl.com/5dhkmteb.

FREE Young Astronomers at the

Charlie Brown Goes to the Symphony January 14, 2024 at 3 pm Weill Hall, Green Music Center

Bobby Rogers, conductor Kymry Esainko, piano Diego Rodriguez, actor, Roustabout Theater Tag along with Charlie Brown as he visits the Symphony!

Discover music that brings the adored Peanuts Gang to life.

The concert includes Vince Guaraldi’s Linus & Lucy.

This concert is sponsored by Snoopy’s Home Ice.

Library. Grades 4–9. Learn how to

use telescopes, meet other kids who are interested in space & receive a Young Astronomers membership button. 4–5 p.m. Sonoma Valley www.sonomafamilylife.com

Affordable tickets for the whole family! $20/adult; $10/child

srsymphony.org | (707) 546-8742 Family Series underwritten by Victor & Karen Trione, and Irene Sohm

January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 29

& auctions. Ages 6–17: $30–$70.

Adults: $90-$100. Ages 5 & under: free. Benefiting disabled veterans & their families. 5–9:30 p.m. Veteran’s Memorial Bldg. 1351 Maple Ave. Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/86spr2u5.

37th Annual All-You-Can-Eat Hawaiian Style Crab & Pasta Feed.

Presented by Russian River Rotary.

Silent & live auctions with auctioneer Senator Mike McGuire. $100.

4:30–8:30 p.m. Friedman Event Center.

4676 Mayette Ave., Santa Rosa. tinyurl. com/3v2cy5a6.

with every paid adult. (Request tickets thru Patron Services 707-546-8742.) $32–$105. Jan. 20 & 22: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 21: 3 p.m. (Jan. 20: 2 p.m. Discovery Open Rehearsal $10–$18). Weill Hall at the Green Music Center. 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. tinyurl. com/2s3ww2nh.

Ursuline Alumnae Crab Feed: 12th Annual Crab Feed and Drive Thru.

Hollywood Sound. Experience iconic

To-Go Orders: $75. Pick-up times: 3:30–4:30 p.m. Dine-in: $75. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Cardinal Newman High School Gymnasium. 4320 Old Redwood Hwy., Santa Rosa.Tickets: tinyurl.com/3683unce.

film scores in concert arrangements: Psycho, Lawrence of Arabia, and Schindler’s List. Ages 7-17 may receive one complimentary ticket

FREE River Creator Faire. 25+ hands-on STEAM activities in the arts & sciences. Free admission or pay-what-you-can. Noon–4 p.m. River

Santa Rosa Symphony RACH & the

Montessori Charter School. 3880 Cypress Dr., Petaluma. Tickets: tinyurl. com/bdz3bh6p.

Wednesday 24 Petaluma Women’s Club Annual Crab Feed. To-Go Orders for Two:

$120. Pick-up times: 3–5:30 p.m.

Dine-in: $75. 6:30 p.m. 518 B. St., Petaluma. Tickets: tinyurl.com/ bddvrwzy.

FREE Speaker Series: Social Media Boundaries. For teens (12+) & adults with disabilities & parents/caregivers to have a better understanding of technology. 6–7 p.m. Common Ground Society. 85 Brookwood Ave., Ste. 12, Santa Rosa.

Register: commongroundsociety.org/ calendar. Zoom option also available: tinyurl.com/yck7svwr.

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

visit

SonomaFamily Life.com 30 SonomaFamilyLife

January 2024

www.sonomafamilylife.com

Saturday 27 FREE Summerfield School Annual

Ln., Rohnert Park. Tickets: tinyurl. com/yd9y37na.

Open House. Potential students,

Girl Scouts Basic Program Aide

families, & friends are invited to visit classrooms, grades 1–12, meet faculty, students & alumni. 10 a.m.–noon.

Summerfield Waldorf School & Farm. 655 Willowside Rd. Santa Rosa.

Register: summerfieldwaldorf.org.

& snacks provided. $50. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Girl Scouts Office. 4825 Old Redwood Hwy., Santa Rosa.

Register: tinyurl.com/yv767h7x.

FREE Santa Rosa Mother’s Club (SRMC) Annual Preschool Fair. 10:30 a.m.–noon. Finley Park, Community Center & Aquatic Complex. 2060 W College Ave., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/yh8rkhkz.

Training. Grade 6 & above. Lunch

FREE Lunar New Year Celebration.

Featuring performances by the Redwood Empire Chinese Association, including lion & tiger dances. 1–3 p.m. Museum of Sonoma County. 425 Seventh St., Santa Rosa. museumsc.org/events/?eid=10931.

Sunday 28

Rancho Athletics Annual Crab, Pasta, and Silent Auction. $75.

No-host bar. 5–10 p.m Rohnert Park Community Center. 5401 Snyder

Junior Ranger Outdoor Skills: Let’s Set Up Camp. Learn basic skills: set

up a tent, build a campfire & more. $10–$12. Parking: $7 or free with Regional Parks membership pass. 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Doran Regional Park.

201 Doran Beach Rd. Bodega Bay. Pre-Register: tinyurl.com/yhfhnnb8.

Monday 29 Museum Mondays. Designed especially for children ages 1–5, this event occurs on the last Monday of every month. Before 11 a.m: $10 per child/free for up to 2 adults per child. After 11 a.m. regular admission applies $5–$12. Discounts available for qualifying guests. 10 a.m.-noon. Charles Schulz Museum.

2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. schulzmuseum.org/museum-mondays.

JAN. 18

SIGN UP FOR OUR WEEKLY FUN BLAST &

ENTER TO WIN GREAT PRIZES! ONLY AVAILABLE IN OUR WEEKLY EBLAST. NEW GIVEAWAYS WEEKLY!

SIGN UP HERE! www.sonomafamilylife.com

GIRAFFES CAN’T DANCE THE MUSICAL January 2024

SonomaFamilyLife 31

Humor Break did she even leave the hotel with one shoe? The shoe was located behind a vending machine.

The Excellence in Minecraft Award: Winner: Noelle Diop.

Does Mrs. Diop enjoy video games?

No, she does not. Has she watched countless hours of YouTube videos just so she can understand what her son is saying? Also no. But has she watched her son play and encouraged him? Yes. Yes, she has. Hours that she will never get back.

The Oscars of Parenting

The Tony Robbins Motivational Award: Winner: John Batt. Mr. Batt was able to motivate his 13-year-old daughter to put on a jacket when it was -22 degrees outside. She said she was fine with a T-shirt. She was not.

By Shannon Carpenter

The Duolingo Teen Linguistic Award: Winner: Lupita McCoy. Mrs. McCoy successfully yeeted her way through the language barrier between adults and teens. Her outfit slapped, she was lowkey, and enjoyed sipping tea (gossiping) with her daughter. When asked if she understood anything that was said, Mrs. McCoy answered “bet.” It is unclear if that is a yes.

Realistic Parenting Awards of 2023

W

elcome to all the parents who have given their all over the last year. We’d like to give a special shout-out to last year’s Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Mrs. Sara O’Conner, who still has money in her bank account, even though she is raising two teenage boys who never stop eating.

2023 was full of ups and downs. Full of late-night homework assignments and missed bus rides. And, of course, missing pots and pans because someone needed them for a craft project. 2024 promises to be a very special year indeed, and we hope that you find those pots and pans.

But let’s celebrate last year and the accomplishments of our honored assembled.

The Ironman Sickness Award Winner: Abby Hendricks. On July 21, 2023, Mrs. Hendricks dealt with a sick toddler, while sick herself. All 32 SonomaFamilyLife

the while she was still able to do the laundry, get the financial reports in at her job, and even remembered to get the birthday gift for her husband’s third cousin once removed.

The Immovable Boulder Award: Winner: Jessica Morse. Mrs. Morse was able to go to the bathroom and keep the door shut despite the onslaught that followed. She found the resolve to not answer the question “What are you doing in there?” from her two-year-old.

The Impossible Sock Award: Winner: Michael Rohm. Despite doing battle and an injury to his left eye, Mr. Rohm did indeed get a sock on his toddler.

The Nike “Just Find It” Award: Winner: Allison Harris. Ms. Harris was able to retrieve the one shoe that her daughter left in the hotel during day two of the family vacation. How January 2024

The Jolly Green Giant Award: Winner: Madison Curry. For the last 18 years, Mrs. Curry has been able to sneak healthy and “super gross” vegetables into her kid’s meals. From pureed spinach hidden in a cheese quesadilla to diced mushrooms strategically placed in hamburger patties, Mrs. Curry’s perseverance to ensure that her family grows up healthy and happy is an inspiration to us all.

Shannon Carpenter is a professional humorist and the author of The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad manual.

www.sonomafamilylife.com