Looking for a new summertime ritual for you and the kids?
Consider making outdoor concerts your next family tradition for several reasons, including affordability and building community (page 24). Another way to keep kids engaged is to introduce them to new experiences. Extracurricular activities provide safe places where children can experiment and grow in arts, athletics, and more (page 10). Before the summer doldrums set in, discover how an ancient pastime can challenge and entertain young players. If you ever thought the game of chess was too demanding for
youth, you might think again after reading this month’s Book Break about unlocking one’s inner genius one move at a time (page 38).
While time is more relaxed this month, it’s still important to consider educational plans for your children this fall … especially early education options for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers (page 16). Before enrollment, there’s still time for family vacations, but travel with toddlers can be tough. This month’s edition shares ways to lessen the stress of these journeys, from takeoff to landing (page 20).
Lastly, included within is a (red, white, and) blueberry cheesecake recipe to mark America’s 250th year (page 7)!
Cashews are an ingredient that can effortlessly mimic a velvety, creamy texture, allowing you to completely replace heavy dairy ingredients in traditional baking. They are also a foundational staple in wholesome “Blue Zones” styles of eating, where they provide an abundance of healthy fats and clean, plant-based protein. Keep in mind that even though this recipe contains absolutely no refined sugars, it is incredibly rich and should still be consumed consciously as a special celebratory food.
This magnificent blueberry cheesecake turns out so decadent that your guests will never guess it is completely plant-slant and dairy-free. Before serving, you can simmer extra blueberries with a touch of chia seeds to create a gorgeous, glossy fruit compote to pour over the top.
Another great thing about this dessert is that the recipe is wonderfully versatile; any type of fresh berry, from sweet strawberries to tart blackberries, will work beautifully as a substitute to make this a red or blue Fourth of July dessert! ❖
Source: The Blue Zones American Kitchen
Mini Blueberry Cheesecakes
Prep and cook time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Makes 18 mini cheesecakes
2 cups raw cashews, soaked in water overnight
1½ cups fresh blueberries (or frozen blueberries, thawed), plus more for optional topping
½ cup maple syrup
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
Juice of 1 lemon (or 2 Tbs. lemon juice)
½ tsp. salt
Crust Ingredients
1½ cups raw almonds
8 to 10 Medjool dates, pitted 1 to 2 tsp. water
1. In a food processor, combine the almonds and dates. Slowly add the water, 1 tsp. at a time as needed, until the mixture clumps together.
2. Place liners in a muffin pan (standard-size muffin cups with silicone liners recommended). Press a little bit of crust into each muffin cup. Place in the fridge
while you make the cheesecake filling.
3. In a food processor, combine the cheesecake ingredients until the mixture is smooth, 1 to 2 minutes.
4. Spoon the cheesecake mixture into each muffin cup, filling it all the way to the top. Once all the muffin cups are filled, place the muffin pan into the fridge to firm up. It will take a good 6 hours until completely firm. You can also put the cheesecakes into the freezer for about 1½ hours to speed up the process.
5. Serve topped with fresh blueberries, if desired. These can be kept in the fridge or the freezer. They should last about 2 weeks in the fridge and up to 6 months in the freezer.
Variations
• If you want to make one big cheesecake instead of the mini cheesecakes, you can use a 6-inch springform pan.
• As mentioned, any berry can be used in place of the blueberries.
Hot Air Balloon Classic Hits
Sonoma County
Join this year’s Hot Air Balloon Classic festival, nestled amidst the enchanting landscapes of Sonoma County’s wine country, hosted at the iconic Sonoma County Fairgrounds. Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing spectacle of inflation and launching, where a kaleidoscope of standard and character-shaped balloons adorn the sky. For those seeking an immersive experience, tethered rides (with an additional ticket) offer a tantalizing taste of the breathtaking vistas from a hot air balloon. Takes place Friday-Sunday, July 17-19 at 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. See the full schedule at tinyurl.com/ybtr75vu
Collectibles Show Features Pokémon
Calling all Pokémon vendors, collectors, artists, and trading card enthusiasts! Save the date for Poke-Palooza, the Pokémon Card & Collectibles Show featuring trading cards, sealed products, vintage collectibles, toys, gaming merchandise, anime items, artwork, accessories, and more. This event will bring together collectors and fans of all ages for a fun-filled day of buying, selling, trading, and community engagement. Saturday, July 25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 200 S. School St., Ukiah. Learn more at tinyurl.com/45sv2p55
Kids Day Festival Marks 33rd Year
The City of Cotati is hosting the 33rd Annual Kids Day Festival and Parade on Saturday, July 11. This year’s theme is “Cotati Kids Dig Into Fun!” Bring the whole family downtown for a fun-filled day celebrating Cotati’s kids and community. Costumes are encouraged. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at Cotati City Hall and will make its way through downtown Cotati to La Plaza Park, where parade judges and the festival will be waiting. Event runs until 3 p.m. Find full event details at tinyurl.com/2j972c7r.
Cotati Kids Day Festival
Poke-Palooza
Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic
Petaluma Art & Garden Festival Returns
Explore more than 100 exhibitors offering unique, high-quality, handmade goods from garden and home décor to jewelry and fine art at the Petaluma Art & Garden Festival. Live musical performances take place, while wineries, breweries, distilleries, and restaurants serve up tastes of Sonoma County and beyond. Gardening experts will be available and a Children’s Corner features jump houses, face painting, and crafts. The festival takes place on Kentucky Street, Fourth Street, B Street, and the A Street parking lot. Festival Headquarters will be located at the Petaluma Historical Library and Museum Garden Court, 20 Fourth St. Admission is free, with tasting packages available separately. From 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday, July 12. More information can be found at petalumadowntown.com/art-garden.html
Frozen the Musical Set for Roustabout Theater
RClassic Introduces Audiences to Aubrey
II
Raven Performing Arts Theater presents Little Shop of Horrors. Howard Ashman and Alan Menken gave the world this camp classic in 1982. The story centers on meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn, who stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down-and-out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it blood. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II’s out-of-this-world origins and its intent toward global domination. July 2, 3, 5, and 9–12 shows are $40 for adults and $10 for students with ID. Find performance times at raventheater.org/ events/little-shop.
oustabout’s Apprentice Program’s fully-staged production of Disney’s Frozen: The Musical brings to life the story of sisters Elsa and Anna through thrilling song and dance, including audience favorites “Let It Go” and “For the First Time in Forever.” Celebrate this Oscar- and Tony-winning story through singing, choreography, and costumes as you rediscover courage and self-discovery in an enchanting family-friendly production. Performances are Saturday, July 18, at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, July 19, at 2 p.m. at Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. Purchase tickets at tinyurl.com/9vpb9kdt
Frozen the Musical
Little Shop of Horrors
Art & Garden Festival
Extra! Extra!
Activities That Develop Character Traits
By Angel Jenkins
While classrooms present young minds with mathematics, language arts, and scientific theory, a report card rarely tells the whole story of a child’s development. Often it is extracurricular activities that help develop traits like self-confidence, creativity, resilience, and more outside the school walls.
Extracurricular activities provide safe places where children can experiment, fail, adapt, and grow far away from the pressure of standardized test scores and traditional grading rubrics.
Standing before a floor-to-ceiling mirror, ballet students learn to challenge their own physical capabilities. Dance and ballet, with their expectation of posture, precision, and repetitive practice, serve as a masterclass in building resilience and independence.
Students internalize rhythm and execute the steps on their own as they learn complex choreography. When a dancer stumbles during a pirouette or forgets a sequence, they must try again. This repeated cycle transforms initial self-consciousness into confidence that serves them in adulthood.
Martial arts also presents a framework for personal growth for those kids who crave physical activity. Unlike traditional playground games, disciplines such as karate, taekwondo,
or jiu-jitsu emphasize self-regulation and individual accountability. When a child bows onto the mat, they enter an environment where progress is visibly measured by belts, earned strictly through personal effort and discipline.
As the student realizes their advancement depends on their own focus and work ethic, a sense
Ultimately, the value of extracurricular pursuits lies in how their lessons translate into daily life.
of independence is born. Sparring teaches resilience: receiving a blow or losing a match is not a permanent defeat, but rather a diagnostic piece of feedback. Learning to manage physical confrontation while respecting an opponent, children cultivate emotional control that benefits them when facing academic or social issues at school.
Whether a child joins a band, an orchestra, or a local choir, music requires teamwork. In an ensemble,
Discover what’s within.
The adventure awaits! Sign up today. Make long-lasting friendships Try activities that make her smile
Build real-world skills through fun, hands-on experiences
Lead in her own way and connect with causes she cares about
a child learns that their individual performance must blend with the notes played by their peers. If a trumpet player blows too loudly, the entire melody is impacted; if a violinist misses a beat, the rhythm falters. This interdependence teaches children to work toward the collective good of the group.
In addition, mastering a musical instrument requires months of practice. When a child finally performs a piece flawlessly on stage, the resulting surge of confidence is rooted in real, hard-earned competence.
Traditional team sports also offer the opportunity for interpersonal skill development. On the soccer field, the basketball court, or the baseball
diamond, children learn collaboration. Leadership, negotiation, and conflict resolution are part of teamwork.
Young athletes discover they must lift each other up after a setback, communicating constructively under
a society dominated by digital screens, a blank canvas or a lump of clay requires a child’s own imagination. Pottery, painting, or woodworking, allows students to make a continuous stream of independent decisions. They must choose the colors, determine the shapes, and decide when a piece is finished.
intense pressure. The shared sweat, collective victories, and sense of grief in defeat build camaraderie.
Off the athletic field, arts and crafts programs offer a sanctuary for independence and self-expression. In
Because art is subjective, it frees children from the paralyzing fear of being wrong, directly boosting their creative confidence. When a sculpture collapses or paint bleeds unexpectedly, the child must problem-solve on the fly, learning to view mistakes not as failures, but as unexpected pivots in the creative process.
A different set of mental and physical muscles is flexed when a child takes
up fencing. Fencing is a highly individual pursuit that takes place on a narrow strip called a piste. Stripped of teammates to share the burden, a young fencer stands completely alone against an opponent.
Every tactical decision, parry, and lunge must be executed with split-second timing and absolute independence. Fencing teaches resilience; when an opponent scores a touch, the fencer cannot look to a coach for immediate rescue. They must instantly diagnose their own tactical error, manage their frustration under a mesh mask, and formulate a new strategy for the next exchange. The mental focus required to outsmart an opponent builds a sharp intelligence and a
profound confidence in one’s own decision-making capabilities.
Ultimately, the value of extracurricular pursuits lies in how their lessons
As the student realizes their advancement depends on their own focus and work ethic, a sense of independence is born.
translate into daily life. The child who learns resilience on the fencing strip or the dance floor will not easily collapse when faced with a challenging grade on a classroom quiz. The student who masters teamwork in an orchestra
or on a sports field will navigate the complex social hierarchies of the school cafeteria and the corporate boardroom.
By providing children with safe spaces to explore their boundaries, navigate failures, and celebrate unique victories, extracurricular activities do not merely fill their afternoons — they build the psychological scaffolding required to raise independent, resilient, and deeply confident human beings. ❖
Angel Jenkins is features editor of Family Life Magazine. Research assistance from Google AI was used from the following sources: U.S. Census Bureau, National Center for Education Statistics, National Institutes of Health, Academy of Fencing Masters, GreatSchools, Edutopia.
Early Education
Investigating Infant, Toddler, and Preschool Options
By Angel Jenkins
While parents and children are in the middle of summer break, thoughts may quickly be turning to backpacks and big yellow buses. Long before the first day of kindergarten, in fact, human brains are firing at an astonishing rate, constructing the foundation of future learning.
Science suggests that some 85 percent of brain development occurs before the age of 5. This realization has transformed how early childhood options are being viewed today. While early education programs may once have been seen as babysitting or basic childcare, today they are recognized as the starting point of lifelong curiosity for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Looking forward to the upcoming fall enrollment season, proactive parents may begin to explore how these early environments are where children first
learn to engage with the world beyond their family unit.
The informed parent sees how rolling on a mat or grasping at colorful rings is the beginning of learning during infancy. And, in high-quality infant programs, the curriculum is entirely relational.
Infants learn language through the melodic back-and-forth of responsive caregiving — a process experts call serve-and-return interaction. When a baby coos and a teacher mirrors that sound back with an encouraging smile,
neural pathways for communication spark to life.
Finding environments that prioritize deep emotional security and sensory exploration is key for parents considering fall enrollment for infants. Look for things like soft lighting, varied textures, and specialized materials designed to encourage reaching, tracking, and spatial awareness.
Because this will be a child’s first separation from home, parents want to choose an infant program to ensure that the earliest memories of
A child’s capacity for complex thought and structured play expands exponentially as they age up from toddlerhood to preschool.
the outside world are rooted in safety, warmth, and predictability.
Moving from infancy to toddlerhood, cognitive and physical needs shift dramatically. Toddlers are embracing their newfound independence, as they are now able to walk, run, and explore. Parents begin to see their children’s fierce desire to do certain things on their own. Early childhood programs designed for toddlers channel this chaotic energy into constructive discovery.
These environments emphasize autonomy, with activities that encourage toddlers to experiment with cause and effect — stacking blocks, sorting shapes, etc. Low shelves allow
toddlers to independently pick and choose from a variety of educational opportunities.
With an emphasis on socialization, toddler programs explore parallel play, emotional regulation, and early empathy alongside peers as cooperative play begins to develop.
The transition from self-centric to community-centric interaction is balanced through quiet storytimes and vigorous physical movement as structured parts of toddler programming.
A child’s capacity for complex thought and structured play expands exponentially as they age up from toddlerhood to preschool. Three- and 4-year-old preschool
programs offer varied educational philosophies allowing parents to match their child’s unique interests and learning style.
Traditional play-based programs, utilizing guided play to teach literacy, math, and science concepts naturally are among options parents will find for preschoolers. Montessori and Reggio Emilia are two other examples of approaches used at preschools.
Montessori education emphasizes self-directed learning and hands-on cosmic education, while the Reggio Emilia approach views children as driven researchers who communicate through art, movement, and building.
Nature-based forest preschools where the outdoor wilderness serves as the primary classroom are another option.
Fostering executive functioning skills — like cognitive flexibility, impulse control, and working memory — are goals of outstanding preschool programs regardless of which educational model they employ, because these are considered strong predictors of future academic success.
In order to determine which program might be best for one’s child, parents can weigh not only the practicalities such as location and scheduling, but also the intangibles such as how the program’s environment speaks to them and how the learning philosophy aligns with their own. While having to make this choice may leave parents feeling overwhelmed, there are some key things to look for during tours that may help … Do teachers get on children’s eye level to communicate? Are they actively involved in lessons and play or just standing back? Do they utilize calm, respectful tones and redirection rather than punishment?
Are student projects displayed at eye level and do they imply individuality is encouraged over conformity? Does the environment
Finding environments that prioritize deep emotional security and sensory exploration is key for parents considering fall enrollment for infants.
prioritize hands-on learning over rigid, desk-based worksheets? Are classroom layouts child-centered, with books and toys on accessible shelves to encourage independent decision making?
Also consider the health and safety operations, such as cleanliness, secured access, and licensing and staff-to-child ratios. Detailed guidelines for what to consider during a tour plus a comprehensive preschool checklist can be found through organizations such as Zero to Three or NAEYC
Despite being in the heart of summer, now is the time to investigate infant, toddler, and preschool care options. As parents expand their child’s circle of care, they also lay the groundwork for a successful educational journey. ❖
Angel Jenkins is features editor of Family Life Magazine. Research assistance from Google AI was used for this article.
La Petite Baleen Rohnert Park swimlpb com | 866-896-3603
*Membership fee required
TUITION-FREE, PERSONALIZED LEARNING
Flexible online curriculum with onsite support from credentialed teachers
Field trips, clubs, and social activities
Caring teachers to address individual student needs
Collaborative team approach to ensuring student success
Travel With Toddlers
Tips for a Smoother Journey
By Dovi Geretz
Summer is one of the busiest times of year for air travel. And for parents of toddlers, crowded airports, long lines, and unexpected delays can turn even a short flight into a major challenge. Between keeping little ones entertained, managing nap schedules, and navigating packed terminals, traveling with toddlers during peak season requires extra planning and patience.
As the chief technology officer at a real-time flight price alert platform, I’ve seen firsthand that successful family travel isn’t about avoiding every disruption; it’s about preparing for them. With the right expectations and a few practical
strategies, parents can make summer flights with toddlers far less stressful and much more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help make your next trip smoother from takeoff to landing.
Choose Toddler-Friendly Flights. When traveling with toddlers, flight timing matters. Early morning flights are often less crowded and less likely to be delayed by disruptions that accumulate throughout the day. Also, whenever possible, opt for nonstop flights to minimize time spent navigating connections, rushing between gates, or dealing with missed flights.
A thoughtfully packed carry-on is one of the best tools parents have for surviving a travel day.
It’s also worth selecting seats in advance. Sitting together as a family eliminates unnecessary stress and helps parents keep toddlers comfortable and supervised throughout the flight. Before departure, review airline policies regarding strollers, car seats, and carry-on items. Knowing what can be gate-checked and what needs to be screened at security can save valuable time at the airport.
Arrive Early and Embrace a Slower Pace. Summer airports are notoriously busy, and everything takes longer when traveling with a toddler. Arriving at least two hours before a domestic flight gives families extra time for diaper changes, bathroom breaks, snacks, and inevitable toddler detours. Rushing through the airport often increases stress for both parents and children, so build extra time into your schedule to allow you to
Don’t forget a portable charger to keep devices powered when delays inevitably occur.
Make Airport Security Easier. Security checkpoints can feel overwhelming with a toddler in tow, handle surprises without feeling pressured.
Pack a Carry-On Built for Toddlers. A thoughtfully packed carry-on is one of the best tools parents have for surviving a travel day. Pack plenty of snacks, a refillable water bottle, wipes, diapers, a change of clothes, and any
When traveling with
them engaged while waiting in line. Staying organized and calm often helps children remain calm as well.
Prepare for Delays and Crowded Terminals. Summer weather and heavy travel demand often lead to delays, so flexibility is essential. If you’re facing a long wait, look for airport play areas
THE MAKING FRIENDS
In-Flight Strategies for Toddlers. Once onboard, focus on comfort and routine whenever possible. Offering a drink or snack during takeoff and landing can help reduce ear pressure. Familiar comfort items such as a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or pacifier can also help toddlers feel more secure. If your child typically naps during the day, try to preserve that schedule as much as possible. Even if sleep doesn’t happen, maintaining familiar routines can help reduce overstimulation and meltdowns. Most importantly, keep expectations realistic. Toddlers aren’t designed to sit quietly for hours, and flexibility often goes a long way toward making the flight more manageable.
Keep Health and Comfort
Top of Mind. Busy airports expose families to plenty of germs, which makes hand sanitizer and frequent handwashing especially important. Staying hydrated is also critical, particularly during
Once onboard, focus on comfort and routine whenever possible.
long travel days. Keep medications, emergency contacts, and essential supplies within easy reach rather than packed in checked luggage. Being able to quickly access necessities can prevent small inconveniences from becoming bigger problems.
Preparation Beats
Perfection. Summer air travel with toddlers may never be completely stress-free, but it doesn’t have to feel chaotic. Thoughtful planning, strategic packing, and realistic expectations can make a significant difference. By building flexibility into your travel day and focusing on your toddler’s needs, you can spend less time managing meltdowns and more time enjoying the adventure ahead. ❖
Dovi Geretz is the Chief Technology Officer at SlickTrip, an online platform that instantly compares top travel sites and alerts you the moment flight prices drop at slicktrip.com
Outdoor Concert Benefits
By Cherie Gough
MReasons to Create This Summer Family Tradition
ake the most of beautiful weather and longer summer days by attending free outdoor concerts in your neighborhood. Here are six reasons to make outdoor summer concerts your family’s new summertime ritual.
1. Get together with friends with little to no planning. A simple text message serves as the invitation. No one has to host. A potluck picnic is a simple way to share a no-fuss meal. Some venues may have food trucks on site for ultimate convenience.
2. Play outside with the family. Avoid being couch potatoes this summer. Most concerts are held at a park, so bring along your favorite ball or Frisbee and find an open space to play.
You’re sure to meet people or bump into neighbors. Visit the playground if your kids need to climb. Some venues even offer games and bounce houses to keep children happy and active at the event. While the music is playing, it’s natural to get up and dance as a family.
3. Neighborhood concerts build community. People of all ages gather together, reminiscent of the piazzas in Italy where time slows, conversations flow and people share food and smiles. In our
super busy, over-scheduled lives, it’s important to schedule some down time. It’s good for the kids to see grandparents dancing together and enjoying life—and for older folks to see young families playing together in a positive way.
4. Share your love of music with your kids. Summer concerts offer a wide variety of
While the music is playing, it’s natural to get up and dance as a family.
musical genres, everything from 80s rock and bluegrass, to country and Big Band. Sharing music with your kids allows you to tell stories and share a piece of your youth with them. It also offers an opportunity to watch live musicians, point out different instruments and sounds, or just boogie down and be silly together.
5. Enjoy the beauty of nature together. When was the last time you ran around outside, observed clouds, watched the sunset or enjoyed a dinner picnic as a family?
6. All the outdoor summer concerts are totally free! So, what are you waiting for? ❖
Cherie Gough is a freelance writer who loves taking advantage of everyday, simple pleasures with her family. Find her on IG @cgoughwrites.
Wednesday 1
FREE Cotati Community Farmers Markets Wednesday Concerts. Various bands and entertainment weekly. Food, drinks, and local artisan crafts for sale. Wednesdays. 4:30–7:30 p.m. La Plaza Park. Old Redwood Hwy. and W. Sierra Ave., Cotati. tinyurl. com/47tbs7by
Friday 3
Fridays at the Hood. Live music, dancing, and picnicking. Food, drinks, beer/ wine sold. $22.19–$25. Ages 12 & younger: free. 5:30–9 p.m.The Hood Mansion. 389 Casa Manana Rd., Santa Rosa. Full musical Line-up: fridaysatthehood.com
Tuesday 7
FREE Luther Locals Live. weekly. All ages welcome. Bring low-back lawn chairs or blankets. Tuesdays. 5:30–7:30 p.m. Nelson Family Grand Plaza. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/mpdrj3jy
FREE Tuesdays in the Healdsburg Plaza. New bands weekly. Shop food vendors and farm fresh produce. Tuesdays. 6–8 p.m. Healdsburg Plaza. Healdsburg Ave. and Matheson St., Healdsburg. Full musical line-up: Tuesdays-in-the-Plaza
Thursday 9
Summer Night on the Green Concert Series.
Food vendors, farm fresh produce, and family lawn games. Thursdays. Street fair: 5 p.m. Live music: 6 p.m. Excludes July 2. Windsor Town Green. 9291 Old Redwood Hwy., Windsor. tinyurl.com/yzwamrvp
Friday 10
FREE Party on the Rohnert Park Plaza. New bands weekly. Food trucks, kids’ area, arts and crafts vendors, market. Fridays. 5–8:30 p.m. Excludes July 3. NEW LOCATION: Rohnert Park Community Center. 5401 Synder Ln., Rohnert Park. Full musical Line-up: rpcity.org/Calendar.aspx?
Local Summer Concerts
Fridays. Street fair: 6 p.m. Live music: 7-9:30 p.m. Excludes July 3. Downtown Plaza. 204 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. Full musical line-up: tinyurl.com/a32mefsb.
FREE KRSH 95.9 Backyard and Beyond Series. Featuring acclaimed Blues, Soul, and Roots artist, Eric Lindell. Food & beverages on site. Preshow: 5 p.m. Concert: 6 p.m. Old Courthouse Square. 600 4th St., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/3e289vsx
Sunday 12
FREE Sundays in the Plaza. Weekly live music from local performers. Bring a picnic and enjoy the tunes. Sundays. 1–3 p.m. Healdsburg Plaza. Healdsburg Ave. and Matheson St., Healdsburg. healdsburg. gov/899/Sundays-in-the-Plaza
PRE-MOVIE ACTIVITIES @ 4PM MOVIES/ CONCERT @ 6PM ON COURTHOUSE SQUARE IN SANTA ROSA
27
20
JULY 10JULY 13 AUGUST 17 AUGUST 3 AUGUST 28 AUGUST 10
FREE Friday Night Live at the Cloverdale Plaza. Food, drinks, and local artisan crafts for sale.
Fourth of July Fun Activities In & Around Town
Friday 3
Windsor Kaboom. Live music, kid’s zone, 25+ vendors. Food/drinks sold. $5–$10. Ages 2 & under: Free. Bring blankets, chairs. Your support helps serve underprivileged youth throughout Sonoma County. Gates: 4 p.m. Fireworks: 9:45 p.m. Keiser Park. 700 Windsor River Rd., Windsor. tinyurl.com/mr3jmatp.
Kiwanis Club of Sebastopol Fireworks. Live music, food, drinks, local artisan crafts. Entry: $20. Ages 6–11: $5. Ages 5 & under: free. All proceeds go back into the community through grants, scholarships, donations, and service projects. Gates: 4 p.m. Fireworks: 9:30 p.m. Sebastopol Community Center. 390 Morris Ave. Sebastopol. sebastopolkiwanisclub.org.
Saturday 4
City of Sonoma Fourth of July Parade & Celebration. Parade, live music, Kids Zone. Food, drinks,
and shop local artisan crafts. Hosted by the Sonoma Volunteer Firefighters Association. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Parade: 10 a.m. Fireworks: dusk. Sonoma Plaza. 453 1st St., E., Sonoma. sonomavolunteer firefighters.org/fourth-of-july
Green Music Center Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular. Featuring Transcendence Theatre and Santa Rosa Symphony. Indoor and lawn seating. Kids’ Zone (4:30–7 p.m.) with carnival games, bouncy houses, music. Food/drinks/beer/wine sold. $46–$76. Lawn tickets for kids 12 and under are half price. Concert: 7:30 p.m. Fireworks display follows the show. Sonoma State University. Green Music Center. 801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. gmc.sonoma. edu/4th-of-july-2
FREE Kenwood 4th of July Hometown Parade and Footrace. Live music, individually purchased food and drink items. Parade: 10:30 a.m. Activities follow at
noon. Starts at Kenwood School. 230 Randolph Ave., Kenwood and travels to Kenwood Plaza Park. 170 Warm Springs Rd., Kenwood. kenwoodparade.org/parade.
FREE Petaluma 4th of July Celebration. Fireworks will be launched from Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds, but the fairgrounds themselves will not be open to the public. 9:30 p.m. Best viewing locations: Lucchesi Park, Prince Park, McDowell Park, Sunrise Park, Wiseman Park, Petaluma. tinyurl. com/2kurzh3a
4th of July Night Hike at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Hike 3-miles roundtrip to a viewpoint with up to 18 fireworks displays. Entry: $80. Ages 12–17: $40. Youth must be accompanied by adult. (Not recommended for children under 12 years old.) 7–11 p.m. Arrive no later than 6:45 p.m. Meet-up: White Barn parking area. Sugarloaf Ridge Park. 2605 Adobe
Canyon Rd., Kenwood. tinyurl. com/46na7w3s
FREE Cloverdale 4th of July Street Block Party. Live music, games, and family activities before the fireworks. Food and beverages on site. Fun for all ages. 2:30–7 p.m. From W. 3rd Ave., down Cloverdale
Blvd. to Railroad Blvd., Cloverdale. cloverdalecitrusfair.org/4th-of-july
FREE Cloverdale 4th of July Parade and Celebration in the Plaza. Live music, performances by Wonder Bread, kids zone, bar provided by the Lions Club, local vendors, and much more. 10 a.m.–1
FREE Rohnert Park 4th of July Jubilee. Honoring Yesterday, Celebrating Today. Live music, family and kids activities, Tiny Tots Play Zone, Bubbles and Foam Dive (bring a towel), Photo Booth, contests and more! Food and drinks for purchase. Proceeds benefit the Education Foundation. Noon–4 p.m. Rohnert Park Community Center. 5401 Synder Ln., Rohnert Park. rpcity.org/867/RP-Jubilee.
FREE 4th of July Healdsburg
Kids’ Parade and Duck Dash Race. Kids can wear costumes, decorate bikes or wagons in red, white, and blue. Live music, face-painting, lawn games, and family activities. Supports local scholarships, teacher appreciation, Choices, Wonder League, and more. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Parade: 11 a.m.. Healdsburg Plaza. Matheson St. and Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. tinyurl.com/4crv44zt
Fired Up Freedom, Independence Day at Santa Rosa Fairgrounds. Family activities, pillow fights (fee), live music. Food and beverages available for purchase. $10 per person (includes parking and event access). Gates open: 5 p.m. Fireworks 9:15 p.m. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. sonomacountyfair. com/pages/fired-up-freedom.
4th of July Fireworks Spectacular
Santa Rosa Symphony | Troy Quinn, conductor Transcendence Theatre Company Sat, July 4 at 7:30 p.m. | Weill Hall + Lawn
Arrive early to make the most of the festivities. The Kids Zone is open from 4:30–7 p.m. with carnival games, bounce houses, food, music, and more. Lawn tickets for kids 12 and under are half price.
GET TICKETS
July Calendar of Events
Beach Games Celebrate Summertime
Big Rocky Games at Monte Rio Beach feature a rubber duckie race, rock skipping, water balloon toss, hula hoop contest, cookie walk, potato sack race, and more. This fun in the sun is presented by the Monte Rio Chamber of Commerce on Friday–Saturday, July 3–4, at Monte Rio Beach, 20400 Bohemian Hwy., Monte Rio. For more information visit tinyurl.com/56dwhfhe
Wednesday 1
Healdsburg Prune Packers Baseball Games. Catch exciting, competitive baseball all summer long. Food, local wine/beer, and non-alcoholic options sold. $6–$10. Prune Packer Stadium. 515 Piper
St., Healdsburg. For full schedule: prunepackers.org.
FREE Peacetime Summer Concert Series. Art displays along with food trucks, beer and wine, great dance music, and a fun, pet-friendly, kid-friendly atmosphere for all
FREE Wednesday Night Market. Various bands and entertainment weekly. Food, drinks, and shop local artisan crafts. Wednesdays.
Big Rocky Games
5–9:30 p.m. Old Courthouse Square. 600 4th St., Santa Rosa. wednesdaynightmarket.org.
FREE Summer at your Library
- Plant a Seed Read. All-ages Summer Reading Challenge to earn prizes, discover new books, and enjoy free events across Sonoma County. All Sonoma Library branches host this event. View schedule: tinyurl.com/3x26pnyj.
Friday 3
Fridays at the Hood. Live music, dancing, and picnicking. Food, drinks, beer/wine sold. $22.19–$25. Ages 12 & younger: free. 5:30–9 p.m.The Hood Mansion. 389 Casa Manana Rd., Santa Rosa. Full musical Line-up: fridaysatthehood.com.
Musical Storytime with Nancy Nelle. A melodic morning of singable stories set to music, hosted by retired librarian Nancy Nelle. Suited for young childen, but all ages welcome. $15–$18. 11 mos. and younger: free. Discounts may apply. Fridays. 10:30–11:45 a.m. Children’s Museum. 1835 W. Steel Ln., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/pmvryw9h.
FREE Big Rocky Games Monte Rio Beach. Family friendly-event. Rubber duck races, water balloon toss, potato sack races, and much more. Food and beverages on site. July 3–4: noon–4 p.m. Monte Rio Beach. 20400 Hwy. 116, Monte Rio. mrrpd.org
Sunday 5
FREE 50th Annual Penngrove Parade and BBQ. Live music, kids’ games, and more. Supports Penngrove Park and local groups. Parade: 11 a.m. Activities follow
at noon–4 p.m. Penngrove Park, 11800 Main St., Penngrove. penngrovesocialfiremen.org.
Tuesday 7
FREE Luther Locals Live. New bands weekly. All ages welcome. Bring low-back lawn chairs or blankets. Tuesdays. 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Nelson Family Grand Plaza. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/ mpdrj3jy
FREE Tuesdays Family Movies on the Green. Outdoor film screening. July 7: Lilo & Stitch. July 14: E.T.
July 21: Cars. July 28: The Goonies. Bring blanket or low back chair. No blankets on lawn before 4:30 p.m. *Please note: there is no shuttle for this event. Movie begins 15 minutes after sunset. Windsor Town Green. 9291 Old Redwood Hwy., Windsor.
FREE Santa Rosa Taco Tuesdays Rides. Family-event. All cyclists welcome to roll through downtown Santa Rosa (8-miles round trip). Taco trucks will be on hand to sell taco and drinks. Tuesdays. Meet-up: 5:30 p.m. Pedals up: 6 p.m. Meet-up: SRJC Parking Lot. 550 Silva Ave,
Santa Rosa. facebook.com/groups/ santarosatacotuesday
Thursday 9
Summer Night on the Green Concert Series. New bands weekly. Food vendors, farm fresh produce, and family lawn games. Thursdays. Street fair: 5 p.m. Live music: 6 p.m. Excludes July 2. Windsor Town Green. 9291 Old Redwood Hwy., Windsor. tinyurl.com/yzwamrvp.
Friday 10
FREE Movies in the Park Forestville. TBA. Concession stand opens an hour before the movie begins. Bring your own low back chairs and blankets. No pets. 8:30 p.m. Baseball Field. Forestville Youth Club. 7045 Mirable Rd., Forestville. forestvilleyouthpark.org
FREE KRSH 95.9 Backyard and Beyond Series. Featuring acclaimed Blues, Soul, and Roots artist, Eric Lindell. Food & beverages on site. Preshow: 5 p.m. Concert: 6 p.m. Old Courthouse Square. 600 4th St., Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/3e289vsx
Friday Night Live at the New bands
weekly. Food, drinks, and local artisan crafts for sale. Fridays. Street fair: 6 p.m. Live music: 7-9:30 p.m. Excludes July 3. Downtown Plaza. 204 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. Full musical Line-up: tinyurl.com/a32mefsb.
Saturday 11
FREE Annual Kids Day Parade and Festival. Parade: 10 a.m. Starts at City Hall and goes to Downtown Cotati. Costumes encouraged. Food,
drinks, and shop local artisan crafts. Festival 11 a.m.–3 p.m. LaPlaza Park, Old Redwood Hwy. Cotati. tinyurl.com/3h6wycs3
Ribs for Kids. Award-winning barbecue, live music, family fun, and a friendly rib competition, all while supporting a great cause in the community. $60.54. Vegetarian: $39.19. Ages: 5–12: $28.52. Noon–4 p.m. Lucchesi Community Center. 320 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma. petaluma2030.org/ribs-for-kids.
FREE Petaluma Adobe State Park’s Junior Ranger Program. Ages 7–12: Hike, play, create, explore nature, history, and science with California State Parks staff and volunteers.
July 11–12: 1 p.m. Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park. 3325 Adobe Rd. Petaluma. parks.ca.gov/ EventDetails/18440.
Movies at the Green Music Center. July 11: (two movies) 5 p.m.: Zootopia and 7 p.m.: Zootopia
2. Pack a picnic. Bring blanket or low-back chairs. Food, local wine/ beer, and non-alcoholic options sold. Lawn tickets: $6. Kids 12 & younger: free (ticket still required). Weill Hall. Green Music Center. 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. Tickets: gmc.sonoma.edu
FREE AV Films Summer Movies. July 11: Screening of Paddington
July 25: The Secret Life of Pets. 1:45 p.m. True West Film Center. 371 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg. avfilmpresents.org
Sunday 12
FREE Sundays in the Plaza. Weekly live music from local performers. Bring a picnic and enjoy the tunes.
Jazz and Lavender U-Cut. Final Day of Bloom Fest. Live music. Food-truck or bring your own. Experience U-Cut Lavender in
the Grosso field. $20. Kids 12 and under free with an adult. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Live Music: Noon–3 p.m. Bees & Blooms. 3883 Petaluma Hill Rd., Santa Rosa. beesnblooms.com.
FREE Petaluma Music Festival. Family-friendly day featuring 100+ artisan exhibitors, live
music, gardening experts, and a Kids’ Corner with jump houses, face painting, and free hands-on crafts. Food, local wine/beer, and non-alcoholic options sold. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Kentucky Street, Fourth Street, B Street, and the A Street
Sunday Fundays at the Sonoma Botanical Garden. Coincides with the Garden’s exhibit of Spirit Guides. Enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, family yoga, live animal presentations, lawn games, and
more. Member: free. Non-members: cost included with Museum admission. $10–$20. Ages 4 & under: free. 1–4 p.m. Sonoma Botanical Garden. 12841 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen. sonomabg.org/visit/ spirit-guides.
Monday 13
FREE Movies on the Courthouse Square. July 13: School of Rock
CITY KIDS FESTIVAL 2026
EVENT DAY:
Saturday, August 1, 2026
11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Juilliard Park, Santa Rosa
Only registered guests will receive a backpack with school supplies. Registration is limited to 650 people.
* Grades K-8 - Must show proof of grade level
* Email address is required to register.
Registration at Two Locations:
RGM Thri� Store
1821 Piner Rd., Santa Rosa 95403
Dates: Monday, June 29th - Wednesday, July 29th or until registration is full. (Closed on July 4th.)
Times: Monday - Friday from 12:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Saturdays: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
RGM Super Thri� Store
375 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park 94928
Dates: Monday, June 29th- Wednesday, July 29th or until registration is full. (Closed on July 4th.)
Times: Monday - Friday from 12:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Saturdays: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
July 20: Peggy Sue Gets Married. July 27: Howard the Duck. Bring chairs & blankets. Food/drinks sold. Pre-activities: 4 p.m. Movie begins: 6 p.m. Old Courthouse Square. 600 4th St., Santa Rosa. santarosametrochamber.com/events.
CITY KIDS FEST
EVENT DAY
Saturday, August 11:00 am - 3:00
Friday 17
Location: Juilliard Park,
Flynn Creek Circus presents The Cricket and the Wren. A rurally based, award-winning circus. Tickets are sold by chair, table, or bench, regardless of ages of attendees. $23–$190. Family Shops Fridays and Saturdays, July 17–18: 5:30 p.m. Sunday, July 19, 1 and 4 p.m. Adult shows 21+: July 17–18: 8:30 p.m. Under the Top Tent. 2435 N. Oak St. Calistoga. Tickets: tinyurl.com/5n79hnrv.
Only registered guests will receive school supplies. Registration is limited * Grades K-8 - Must show proof * Email address is required to
Registration at Two
RGM Thri� Store
1821 Piner Rd., Santa
Saturday 18
Dates: Monday, June 29th - Wednesday, or until registration is full. (Closed Times: Monday - Friday from Saturdays: 1:00 pm
Hot Air Balloon Classic. Food trucks, funzone, photo balloon, cold inflate. Tethered balloon rides (fee). Admission $22.48. Ages 3–12 yr: $13.12. Ages 3 and under: free. The Glow Show is 5 a.m, when illuminated hot air balloons light up the pre-dawn sky. Main Launch at 6:30 a.m. July 18–19: 4–10 a.m. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. schabc.org
RGM Super Thri�
375 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert
Dates: Monday, June 29th- Wednesday, or until registration is full. (Closed
Times: Monday - Friday from Saturdays: 1:00 pm
Disney’s Frozen the Musical. Performed by the Apprentice Program of Roustabout Theater. $34.22–$38.94. July 18: 2 & 7:30 p.m. July 19: 2 p.m. Luther Burbank Center. 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. Tickets: tinyurl.com/ y8eyx5ft
Sunday 19
FREE Summer Sundays Music Series at Montgomery Village. Featuring local saxophonist Jimmy Galvan. No tickets, no fuss, just a great community afternoon. Noon–2 p.m. Village Court. (located near Monti’s, Salt & Straw and Anthropologie). Santa Rosa. tinyurl.com/fmyey3jm
Thursday 23
FREE Uncle Jer’s Traveling Bee Show. Uncle Jer brings the fascinating world of bees to life, teaching kids K–6 about honey making, bee safety, and offering a safe, up-close look inside a real beehive. 11 a.m.–noon. Healdsburg Library. 139 Piper St., Healdsburg. Other Sonoma Library branches will host this event. View schedule: tinyurl.com/y8cz4hew.
Saturday 25
FREE Poke-Palooza Card & Collectables Show. Trading cards, collectables, toys, anime, and more. Buy, sell, trade, and enjoy a fun day with collectors of all ages. 10 am–6 p.m. Play & Trade After Event: 6–8 p.m. Ukiah Valley Conference Center. 200 S. State St., Ukiah tinyurl.com/33p6mk68.
FREE Back-2-School Safari at Coddingtown. Family-fun event. Kick off the school year with
free supplies (while they last), games, and more. 10 a.m.–noon. Coddingtown Center, Santa Rosa. codding.com/upcoming
Monday 27
Museum Mondays for Little Ones. Dog Party. Ages 1–5: $10 per child
and free for up to 2 adults per child, before 11 a.m. (regular admission applies thereafter). $7–$15. Ages 3 & under: free. Discounts available for qualifying guests. Last Monday each month. 10 a.m.–noon. Charles Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. schulzmuseum.org/ museum-mondays.
CITY KIDS FESTIVAL 2026
Día del evento:
Sábado, 1 de Agosto 2026 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Lugar: Juilliard Park, Santa Rosa
Solo los invitados que estén registrados recibirán una mochila con útiles escolares. Las Inscripciones están limitadas a 650 personas.
* Año Escolar K-8 Deberá presentar prueba del nivel escolar
* Para inscribirse se require correo electrónico
Registración en dos Lugares: Tienda de Segunda RGM 1821 Piner Rd., Santa Rosa 95403
Días: Lunes, 29 de Junio al Miércoles 29 de Julio ó hasta que se hayan llenado todos los cupos (Cerrado Julio 4)
Horario: Lunes - Viernes de 12:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Los Sábados: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Super Tienda de Segunda RGM
375 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park 94928
Días: Lunes, 29 de Junio al Miércoles 29 de Julio ó hasta que se hayan llenado todos los cupos (Cerrado Julio 4).
Horario: Lunes - Viernes de 12:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Los Sábados: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Decoding Genius Through Chess
An Unexpected Summer Activity for Kids
Over summer, parents ask the same question: what activities will help my child grow, not just keep them busy? In recent years, chess has seen a surge in popularity among kids and families. For Dan Shapiro, that question became especially real during COVID …
At the time, chess was just another activity for his son to try. At the same time, more families were starting to rediscover chess as something that builds real skills.
What began as a simple game became a space where Dan’s son could think ahead, make decisions, and see direct results of his choices. There were no shortcuts, no guessing, and no one to blame. Every move mattered, and every outcome connected back to something he’d done.
It wasn’t immediate, and it wasn’t perfect. But Dan noticed that this was different from a lot of the other activities his son had tried. In many environments, kids are either told exactly what to do or evaluated based on outcomes they don’t fully control. With chess, the process itself started to matter more than anything else. Progress came from thinking, adjusting, and trying again.
Just as important, his son enjoyed it. Often, activities that are “good for kids” feel like work, but chess didn’t carry that weight. It was challenging, but fun. It gave his son a sense of independence and ownership that
started to show up not just on the board, but in other parts of life, too.
Over time, Dan began to notice his son’s ability to pause and think before acting, willingness to make a decision without knowing exactly how it would turn out, and understanding that mistakes weren’t failures, just part of figuring things out. These aren’t always the kinds of skills kids pick up in school, but they show up everywhere else.
During summer, when structure disappears and screen time tends to increase, chess may fill a gap in a way few activities do. It creates a structure where learning happens naturally. And because it can be played both in person and online, it also works for real life, whether during a quiet afternoon at home or a quick game while traveling.
Reflecting on what worked, some simple patterns stood out that other parents can try this summer:
Start with interest, not pressure: Introducing chess casually, without expectations, makes it easier for kids to engage and enjoy the process.
Let kids make their own decisions: One of the biggest benefits comes from allowing children to think through moves on their own, rather than being told what to do.
Focus on the process, not winning: Progress comes from
thinking, adjusting, and learning from mistakes, not from results.
Keep it flexible: Whether it’s a quick game at home, a casual lesson, or online play during travel, consistency matters more than structure.
For families in the middle of summer, sometimes the most meaningful activities aren’t the obvious ones. Sometimes, they are simply a game. Dan Shapiro is the author of Decoding Genius: The Unexpected Lessons of After-School Chess Club
After seeing how chess helped his son build confidence and decision-making skills, he set out to better understand what it can teach kids beyond the board. For more information, visit DecodingGeniusBook.com.
This disclaimer clarifies that the magazine is reporting news from the publishing industry and is not offering an endorsement or review of the books mentioned.
