Your child will develop unshakable confidence, deep integrity, discipline, laser sharp focus, exceptional fitness, rock solid self-respect, social maturity, resilience, improved grades and relief from stress.
a Reading Seed Through Library Program Mark Juneteenth with Global Dance Event
Striking a balance between the lazy days of summer and structured plans like camps and vacations can be tricky for families. Readers can find practical tips to craft a summer schedule that keeps everyone engaged, rested, and connected in this edition (page 10).
If a vacation is part of this summer’s plans, parents may be wondering how to give the kids amazing experiences and memories that’ll last a lifetime without going over budget. When it comes to strengthening family bonds, an old-fashioned staycation may be just what your wallet ordered (page 18).
This month is also when families celebrate dads — Father’s Day is Sunday, June 21. Some ideas within offer creative ways to mark the occasion without falling back on old activities (page 20). Whatever you do, prepare the recipe in this edition for a hearty appetizer called Cowboy Cavier that every dad will enjoy (page 7).
As families spend more time outdoors, backyard playgrounds become the center of daily fun. A little awareness and routine maintenance helps fix playground safety issues before they become injuries (page 22).
Features Editor Angel Jenkins angel@family-life.us
Production Manager Donna Bogener production@family-life.us
Contributing Writers
Tanni Haas
Rebecca Hastings Jan Pierce
Billing Jan Wasson-Smith
Cowboy Caviar
Dad’s Day Chip Dip
This Father’s Day, swap the standard chips and salsa for a hearty, protein-packed appetizer that satisfies a crowd. Often called “Texas Caviar,” this colorful blend of black-eyed peas, black beans, and sweet corn is tossed in a tangy lime vinaigrette that cuts through the summer heat. It’s the ultimate “man-food” side dish — sturdy enough to hold up in a cooler yet refined enough for a backyard celebration. Also, easy to make ahead of time and bring up to the cabin, or to make fireside while camping!
Packed with crisp bell peppers, creamy avocado, and a kick of jalapeño, it’s a versatile powerhouse. Whether Dad is relaxing on the deck or manning the grill, this dip pairs perfectly with salty tortilla chips or serves as a vibrant topping for grilled steaks and fish. Bold, zesty, and undeniably fresh, it’s a guaranteed home run for any outdoor feast.
Full of fresh, summery vegetables, this recipe makes a little less than a gallon of chip dip.
Source: The Blue Zones American Kitchen
Cowboy Caviar
1 cup olive oil
½ cup cider vinegar
2 T Stevia
1 can black soy beans, unsalted & drained
1 can Adzuki beans, unsalted & drained
3 ears of sweet corn, grilled
½ of a red onion
1 of each – yellow, red, and green bell peppers – finely chopped
1 jalapeño, finely chopped
1. In a bowl, mix together all beans, corn, red onion, and peppers.
2. Pour olive oil, cider vinegar and Stevia over the vegetable mixture and stir about.
3. Let the “caviar” marinate in the refrigerator overnight for best taste results (the longer it sits, the tastier it becomes).
4. Drain thoroughly, and serve with unsalted, corn tortilla chips.
Make Sunday a Fun Day in the Gardens
Sunday Funday is a family-friendly program inviting children of all ages to connect with nature through hands-on, creative experiences. Families can enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, yoga, live animal presentations, lawn games, and more. Guests can experience the special exhibition, Spirit Guides, featuring large-scale sculptures of brightly colored, richly patterned imaginary hybrid animals. Select activities and activations throughout the afternoon will be offered bilingually (English/Spanish). This is a drop-in program; no advance registration is required. Free for members and included with admission. Sundays, June 14, July 12, and August 9, from 1-4 p.m. Sonoma Botanical Garden, 12841 Hwy. 12, Glen Ellen. Learn more at sonomabg. org/visit/sunday-funday
Commemorate Ending of Slavery at Juneteenth
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. The 56th Annual MLK/Juneteenth Community Festival Celebration of Diversity and Inclusion will take place from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday, June 13, at MLK Park on Hendley Street in Santa Rosa. Live choir performances, food and merchandise vendors, kids zone activities, local business information booths, and community basketball and soccer games help attendees celebrate unity and culture. For more information, email sonomacountyjuneteenth@gmail.com or visit sonomacountyjuneteenth.com
Sonoma Botanical Garden’s, Sunday Fundays
Celebrate the Past, Present, and Future at Fair
Step right up for one of Petaluma’s most cherished traditions, the 2026 Petaluma Fair! This year’s theme, “Past, Present, and Future Luma,” celebrates the community’s rich heritage, the vibrant spirit of today, and the bright possibilities ahead. Experience the magic of the fairgrounds with livestock shows, still exhibits, rides, local food, and family fun for all ages. From farm animals to fine arts, it’s a showcase of Petaluma pride — where roots meet the future under the lights of Luma. Mark your calendars for June 18–21. Have questions? Reach out to fair@ cityofpetaluma.org or buy tickets at tinyurl.com/yf6n9k9y
MLK/Juneteenth Community Festival Celebration of Diversity and Inclusion
Petaluma Fair
Plant a Reading Seed Through Library Program
Just as a garden nourishes the body, stories and ideas nourish the mind. This summer, whether they are cultivating a new hobby, exploring new genres, or learning a new skill, patrons are invited to grow at Sonoma Library system through the Summer Reading Program. Sign up for the all-ages Summer Reading Challenge to earn prizes, discover new books, and enjoy free events across Sonoma County! A full lineup of cultural performances, educational workshops, and hands-on fun will take place. All programs are free, and you don’t need a library card to attend (though some require advance registration). Monday, June 1-Wednesday, August 1. Explore the full calendar at tinyurl.com/3k9k2sn6
Kick Off Summer at Jack London Park
Summer arrives at Jack London State Historic Park with a flurry of special events and activities. Events include: Creative Photography Workshop, Redwood Connections Hike, The Secret Lives of Mountain Lions, Plein Air Watercolor Landscapes Workshop, California Impressionist Tilden Daken Author Signing, and A Speaker Series: Jack London Through the Eyes of His Great-Granddaughter Tarnel Abbott. Costs vary. The park is located at 2400 London Ranch Rd., Glen Ellen. A full schedule and more details on each event can be found at jacklondonpark.com
Mark Juneteenth with Global Dance Event
The International Dance Festival celebrates Juneteenth with a vibrant showcase of global dance traditions. New World Ballet is joined by acclaimed guest artists including Diamano Coura, Fogo Na Roupa, Sonoma County Pomo Dancers, Arenas Dance Company, New World Ballet, and more. Experience an uplifting fusion of cultures, rhythms, and stories honoring the diversity and resilience of people across the globe. Saturday, June 20, from 6–8 p.m. at Jackson Theater, 4400 Day School Pl., Santa Rosa. Purchase tickets or learn more at tinyurl.com/42xk93vy
Summer Reading Program
Fogo Na Roupa
Jack London State Historic Park
Balancing Act
Juggling Summer Vacations, Camps, and More
By Rebecca Hastings
Summer brings long days, sunshine, and the promise of memorable experiences. For families, however, it can also mean a hectic schedule filled with camps, activities, and vacations.
Striking the right balance between structured plans and downtime can feel like a juggling act. With a little forethought and planning, you can craft a summer schedule that keeps everyone engaged, rested, and connected.
Here are practical tips to help parents create a balanced summer schedule that prioritizes family time, camps, and other activities without overwhelming anyone.
1. Start with a Bird’s-Eye View. Before filling the calendar, take a step back and look at the summer as a whole. Mark down any fixed dates,
such as family vacations, weddings, or reunions, as well as registration deadlines for camps or activities.
Once you’ve outlined these key events, consider how they affect the rhythm of your summer. For example, if your vacation falls at the end of July, you might want to avoid scheduling an intensive camp the following week to allow for a recovery period.
Tip: Use a digital calendar or a large wall planner to visualize the entire summer at a glance.
2. Prioritize Family Time. Summer is a prime opportunity to
strengthen family bonds, but it can easily be overshadowed by packed schedules. Make family time a non-negotiable part of your summer.
This could mean dedicating weekends to family activities like hiking, visiting local attractions, or relaxing backyard barbecues. For busier weeks, consider scheduling simple evening activities, such as movie nights or board games, to reconnect after a day apart.
Tip: Plan at least one “staycation” weekend or day trip as a family to enjoy local adventures without the stress of extensive travel.
3. Choose Camps and Activities Strategically. Camps and extracurricular activities are summer staples that can enrich your child’s break from school. To avoid burnout, be selective about how many and which types of activities to sign up for.
Balance active camps, like sports or adventure programs, with more creative or relaxed options, such as art classes or theater workshops. Pay attention to your child’s energy levels
and interests—some kids thrive in back-to-back activities, while others need downtime between engagements.
Tip: Block out at least one unscheduled week in your child’s summer. This can be a time for spontaneous playdates, unstructured outdoor fun, or simply relaxing at home.
4. Plan Vacations with Intention. Family vacations are a highlight of summer, but they can also disrupt routines and lead to exhaustion if not planned carefully. When booking trips, consider the duration and distance—will you need a few days to recover after returning?
Space vacations and camps apart so your child isn’t transitioning from one high-energy experience to
another. If you’re traveling during camp season, ensure there’s enough buffer time to avoid overwhelming yourself or your kids.
Tip: Alternate between “on” and “off” weeks to create a rhythm of engagement and relaxation throughout the summer.
At the end of summer, take time to reflect on the experiences you’ve shared as a family.
5. Embrace the Power of Routine. Even with a flexible summer schedule, maintaining some structure can help kids feel secure and balanced. Incorporate routines like
consistent bedtimes, mealtimes, and quiet periods, even when days are busy. A morning routine can set the tone for a productive day, while a wind-down ritual can ensure kids get enough rest to recharge for their next adventure.
Tip: Block off downtime in your schedule to prevent overcommitting. Quiet afternoons at home can give kids—and parents—a chance to recharge.
6. Leave Room for Spontaneity. While planning is essential, leaving room for spontaneous fun is just as important. Kids often find joy in unstructured activities like riding bikes with friends, exploring the backyard, or building forts in the living room.
Allowing for flexibility in your summer schedule not only prevents burnout but also fosters creativity and resilience in children.
Tip: Set aside “open days” where there’s no agenda. These can become opportunities for spur-of-the-moment adventures or much-needed relaxation.
7. Communicate and Adjust.
As the summer unfolds, keep an open line of communication with your kids about how they’re feeling. If they’re showing signs of exhaustion or expressing a desire for more downtime, be willing to adjust the schedule.
Parents should also check in with themselves to ensure they’re not feeling overextended. A balanced summer should be enjoyable for the whole family.
Tip: Schedule weekly family check-ins to discuss upcoming plans, reflect on the past week, and make adjustments as needed.
a step back and look at the summer as a whole.
8. Reflect and Celebrate. At the end of summer, take time to reflect on the experiences you’ve shared as a family. Celebrate the memories you’ve created and discuss what worked well (and what didn’t) for future planning. This reflection not only helps parents refine their approach but also teaches
children the value of balance and prioritization.
Tip: Make a note on your calendar for next winter or spring about what worked well and anything you would do differently. This will ensure the reminders are handy when you need them.
Rebecca is a published author and former teacher passionate about authenticity, faith, and family. Connect with her at RebeccaHastings.net and on Instagram. Before
A balanced summer schedule allows children to explore, rest, and connect. By thoughtfully prioritizing activities, creating space for family time, and leaving room for spontaneity, parents can ensure their kids have a summer filled with growth, relaxation, and fun. ❖
Nature Camp
Home, Sweet Home
Staycations Are Great For Family Bonding
By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.
If your family is anything like mine, you probably spend much of the year saving up for that one, big vacation trip with the kids. Giving the kids amazing experiences and memories that’ll last a lifetime is worth saving and working hard for. But when it comes to strengthening family bonds, there’s nothing like an old-fashioned staycation.
Research shows that the more familiar your vacation surroundings are, the happier your kids will be. According to Dr. Karen Melton, the author of a recent study on the topic, “the best predictor of happiness for families is spending quality time
together in familiar activities inside the home.”
Sounds strange? Not really. If you think about it for a moment, it begins to make sense. Dr. Melton and her colleagues discovered that
Research shows that the more familiar your vacation surroundings are, the happier your kids will be.
when families travel to new and unfamiliar places, they spend a great deal of time and energy organizing themselves and processing all that’s happening. But when they vacation closer to home — and especially in their home — they have the time and energy to relax and focus on each other.
During a vacation trip away from home, there are so many choices to make every day: what time to get up in the morning, what sites to see, what restaurants to eat at. The list goes on and on. At home, simply
doing fun stuff together, we can just enjoy each other’s company.
So, what are some great staycation activities? Here are three of my family’s favorites:
Playing Board Games — No matter how addicted they are to their online games, your kids can get into hanging out together as a family if you play a good board game. Our family favorites are Charades and Taboo: we laugh our heads off with the funny gestures and faces we make trying to give clues.
Listening To Music — Most people walk around all day, with their headphones on, streaming their own music. It’s good to take
off those earbuds and enjoy music with the rest of the family. It’s fun to gather around a computer and take turns picking your favorite songs on YouTube. Your kids get to hear the oldies from your youth, and you get to hear the top songs of the moment
that they like. Your kids’ and your own musical tastes may change in ways you didn’t think possible.
Cooking Meals — Few things bring a family together like cooking a meal. It’s active, fun, everyone can
participate, and in the end you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor. To add excitement, make the meal prep a fun challenge. Create rules like you can only cook with what you already have in the kitchen. If your family is big enough, divide into two teams with each responsible for different parts of the meal. One team makes the main course, and the other makes the salad and dessert. Take turns in the kitchen, and don’t tell the other team what you’ve been cooking. Sitting down to eat will be a fun and surprising mystery. ❖
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
Giving Dad His Due
Celebrating Father’s Day in New Ways
By Jan Pierce, M.Ed.
An anonymous writer once said: “A father is a guy who has snapshots in his wallet where his money used to be.” It’s funny, but true.
Dads are the ones who give everything to take good care of their families and on Father’s Day it’s time to give Dad his due. But what can you do that hasn’t been done before? Here’s a hint — don’t buy a tie. Instead read through the following suggestions and see if one or two of them will make Dad’s day a special one for your family.
Play something: Most dads enjoy some kind of sport. Maybe they golf or bowl or enjoy poker. Or perhaps they love to play video games but never get a turn because the kids always have the screens.
There
may be some important memories
locked up in his mind that you really should know
about …
Whatever Dad enjoys — do it with him. You might try having a chess or checker tournament with willing family members. Or you can always fall back on another old favorite: board games. Whatever it is, get the family in on the fun and let Dad choose his favorite kind of play.
You might enjoy reserving part of Father’s day to just sit back and relax.
Eat something: You can’t go wrong here. Dad’s day is a time to forget about calories and fix the things he loves. If you’re gathered at the old homestead, go ahead and have a big barbecue or dinner. If he loves a certain restaurant, go there. Let him order the things he loves and make it a family event. What could be easier or more fun?
Teach something: We all know that Dads have knowledge they need to pass on to the next generation. How about showing the rest of the family how to tie a fly for fishing or how to pitch the perfect curve ball? Show the boys how to check the oil or change a tire. Let the wife in on the secrets of his favorite barbecue sauce or show someone how to solve a puzzle or math problem. Dads are a wealth of wisdom — go ahead and have him share.
Remember something: While we’re praising the many skills and character traits of our dads, let’s ask him to share a memory. He probably has wonderful stories of his younger days and maybe a few stories you’ve never heard before. Let him tell how it was going to school in the “olden days” or how he locked his mom in the henhouse when he was 10.
There may be some important memories locked up in his mind that you really should know about — perhaps learning experiences from his education or his career, or maybe stories about his experiences serving his country. Time to share, Dad.
Plant something: Here’s a great idea. Go shopping at a local
nursery and buy a rose bush or a tree or some other living plant and put it in the ground as a family. You might mark it with a date and then
enjoying that barbecue meal. Or gather up the gang and go to the ball game or the race track. Be a spectator and do it with family.
have the pleasure of watching it grow and mature just as your family does. Another option would be to donate a plant in the family name to a local park or garden. Let the neighborhood enjoy your gift.
Watch something: You might enjoy reserving part of Father’s day to just sit back and relax. Watch a movie or favorite sporting event. Cheer for your favorite team while
Too often we think of Father’s Day as a time for a card and gift. Then we scratch our heads trying to think of something to please Dad. This year get the family together and plan a fun day and please, let Dad do what he wants. He’ll enjoy doing something of his choice, especially if he gets to enjoy the time with his family. ❖
Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun . Find Jan at janpierce.net
Safer Summer Play
Fixing Backyard Playground Hazards
By Sheryl Berkley
As families spend more time outdoors in the summer months, backyard playgrounds become the center of daily fun. However, while parents often assume their own yard is safer than a public park, many hidden risks go unnoticed.
Backyard playground hazards are easy to fix with a little awareness and routine maintenance. Here are seven often overlooked safety issues and how to address them before they turn into injuries.
Worn or Inadequate Ground
Surfacing
One of the biggest mistakes parents make is relying on grass or packed dirt beneath backyard play equipment. While it may look soft, these surfaces do very little to absorb impact in the event of a fall. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, falls are the top reason children end up in the emergency room (making up nearly 30 percent of pediatric trauma cases). Inadequate surfacing significantly increases the risk of serious harm.
It’s paramount to upgrade to impact-absorbing materials like rubber mulch, which is specifically engineered to cushion falls. Its flexible, springy texture absorbs impact more effectively than traditional materials, helping reduce the likelihood of serious injuries. For example, Playsafer’s high-quality rubber mulch products far exceed ASTM safety standards for impact attenuation.
Aim for a depth of at least 3 to 4 inches, and also make sure to regularly rake and replenish materials, as they naturally shift and compact over time.
Loose Bolts, Rust, and Structural Wear Backyard playsets endure constant use and exposure to the elements, which means that the hardware can loosen and materials
can degrade faster than expected. A single loose bolt or a weakened joint greatly increases the risk of the playset collapsing or creating sharp edges that can cause cuts.
Inspect your playground every month. Tighten all bolts, screws, and connectors, and replace any rusted or damaged hardware as soon as possible. For wooden structures, check for splintering or rot and apply a weather-resistant sealant every year. Metal components should be treated to prevent corrosion.
Poor Anchoring or Unstable
Equipment Even well-built playsets can become hazardous if they aren’t properly anchored. Shifting soil, weather conditions, and active play can cause equipment to tilt or move over time. Unstable structures increase the risk of tipping, especially when multiple children are playing at once. Ensure your playset is securely anchored using ground stakes or concrete footings (depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations). Also periodically check that the structure remains level and stable, especially after heavy rain or seasonal ground shifts.
Unsafe Add-Ons and DIY
Modifications While it’s tempting to customize a backyard playground with extra features like rope swings, hammocks, or climbing attachments, not all modifications are safe. They may also not be designed to work with your existing structure. Improvised add-ons can fail under weight, which can ultimately lead to entanglement hazards (or throw off the balance of the entire playset).
Stick to manufacturer-approved accessories whenever possible. Avoid adding any ropes or cords that could wrap around a child’s neck or limbs. And if you do install additional features, ensure that they are properly rated for weight and securely attached using appropriate hardware.
Overgrown
Landscaping and
Hidden Obstacles Backyard playgrounds don’t exist in isolation, as they’re surrounded by elements that can quickly become hazards if left unmanaged. For example, tree roots, rocks, garden borders, and overgrown bushes can create tripping hazards and reduce visibility. This ultimately makes supervision more difficult. Maintain a clear play zone with at least a 6-foot buffer around all
equipment. Regularly trim back bushes and tree branches, remove rocks or debris, and watch for roots that may surface over time. Keeping the area open and visible will reduce injuries and also help you keep a better eye on your kids.
Heat Hazards on Slides and Metal Surfaces
As temperatures rise, playground surfaces like slides and metal components can become dangerously hot. These surfaces can heat up quickly (especially on sunny days) and cause burns within seconds, even when the air temperature feels mild. Test surfaces with your hand before allowing your child to play. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Add shade elements like umbrellas, shade sails, or strategically
planted trees to reduce direct sun. if possible, choose lighter-colored materials or UV-resistant plastics that absorb less heat.
Turn Everyday Play into
Safer Play! Backyard playgrounds offer convenience, creativity, and endless fun, but they also come with responsibility. Many injuries don’t stem from major failures, but rather from small, overlooked hazards that build up over time. It is paramount for parents to reset their safety routines with simple, impactful updates like improving surfacing and optimizing setup. The goal isn’t just play; it’s safe play. ❖
Sheryl Berkley is the Chief Technology Officer at Rubberecycle Corporation, a leader in top quality rubber surfacing products for playgrounds and commercial establishments since 1996.
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
June Calendar of Events
Enjoy the Show at Russian River Rodeo
The 59th Annual Russian River Rodeo is Saturday, June 20-Sunday, June 21. Gates open at 11 a.m. with rodeo performances starting promptly at 1 p.m. both days. The event includes bull riding, bronc riding, team roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing and one amazing rodeo clown. Activities take place at 23450 Moscow Rd., Duncans Mill. Email questions to info@russianriverrodeo.com or visit tinyurl. com/54ed3hfk for more event details as they become available.
Monday 1
Tuesday 2
FREE Summer at your Library –Plant a Seed Read. Sign up for an all-ages Summer Reading Challenge to earn prizes, discover new books, and enjoy free events across Sonoma County. All Sonoma Library branches will host this event. View schedule: tinyurl.com/3x26pnyj
FREE Santa Rosa Taco Tuesday Rides. Family-event. All cyclists welcome to roll through downtown Santa Rosa (8-miles round trip).
Russian River Rodeo
Taco trucks will be on hand to sell tacos & 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
Wednesday 3
FREE Wednesday Night Market. Various bands & entertainment weekly. Food, drinks, and shop local artisan crafts. Wednesdays. 5–9:30 p.m. Old Courthouse Square. 600 4th St., Santa Rosa. wednesdaynightmarket.org.
Saturday 6
FREE Celtic Festival. Traditional music, food & baked goods, Irish & Scottish dance, Highland Games, archery, tea room, crafts, raffles, & more. Hosted by Holy Dormition Orthodox Church. Noon–6 p.m. 1521 Rose Ave., Santa Rosa. tinyurl. com/5b7rbd3n
FREE Whitewater Rodeo on Santa Rosa Creek. Ages 5 and up. Build a toy boat and race it down Santa Rosa Creek! Prizes for all. Wear shoes that can get wet (no sandals). Boat materials and help available. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Noon-2 p.m. Olive Park Bridge (near 1698 Hazel St.), Santa Rosa. Registration required: tinyurl. com/4uxr2m5x.
Lavender Bloom Fest 2026. Include access to walk the grounds at your own pace plus a self-guided tour with Farm Map. $15–$20. Kids 12 and under free with an adult. Saturdays and Sundays: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (thru mid-July). Bees & Blooms. 3883 Petaluma Hill Rd., Santa Rosa. beesnblooms.com.
FREE Sonoma County Annual Pride Parade & Festival. Food & beverages on site. Parade: 11 a.m. Festival: Noon–5 p.m. Old Court House Square. 4th St., Santa Rosa. sonomacountypride.org/parade
Tuesday 9
FREE Sensory Friendly Afternoon. Exclusively for children with sensory processing differences and their families or caregivers. Enjoy hands-on exhibits in a safe, accessible environment. Second Tuesdays. 2–5 p.m. Children Museum. 1835 W. Steel
Ln., Santa Rosa. Pre-registration recommended: tinyurl.com/9baysa8c
Friday 12
FREE Movie in La Plaza Park. Outdoor film screening of GOAT. Bring chairs, blankets, & a picnic. Individually purchased food & drink items available. Arrive 15 minutes prior to show. Movie starts: 8:30 p.m. LaPlaza Park, W. Sierra & Old Redwood Hwy, Cotati. tinyurl. com/562jjunn
Country Summer Music Festival. Featuring Cole Swindell, Keith Urban, Koe Wetzel, plus many more artists. General admission: $85–$225. Ages 3 and under: Free. Most food and beverage vendors are going CASHLESS. Parking:
$20–$30. Runs thru June 14. Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. Full line-up: countrysummer.com
Saturday 13
FREE Annual Bear Flag Celebration & Chicken BBQ. Enjoy live music. Individually purchased food & drink items available. Flag changing ceremony: 11 a.m. Chicken BBQ: Noon–5 p.m. Sonoma Plaza. 453 1st. St. E, Sonoma. tinyurl.com/ b2cw9pnr.
FREE 56th Annual MLK/ Juneteenth. A family-friendly celebration of culture, music, and food. Kids zone, community basketball & soccer games. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. MLK Park on Hendley St., Santa Rosa. Free park and shuttle available. Santa
Rosa Downtown Mall to Hendley St. sonomacountyjuneteenth.com
FREE Juneteenth Celebration in the Plaza. A jazz jubilee, free percussion, poet laureate Enid Pickett, hands-on family art workshops and a pop-up exhibit celebrating local BIPOC artists. Food & beverages on site. 2–8 p.m. Healdsburg Plaza. Healdsburg Ave. & Matheson St., Healdsburg. healdsburgjazz.org.
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. Second Saturdays & Sundays. June 13–14: 1 p.m. Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park. 3325
Rohnert Park Community Chorale Spring Performance. $15, children under 10: free. 3 p.m. Burton Recreation Center. 7421 Burton Ave., Rohnert Park. rpchorale.com.
Sunday 14
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. Members: free. Non-members: cost included with Museum admission. $10–$20. Ages 4 & under: free. 1–4 p.m. Sonoma Botentical Garden. 12841 Hwy. 12, Glen Ellen. sonomabg.org/visit/ spirit-guides
Thursday 18
Family Day Program @ RFO. Activities teach children about the solar system and our nearest star, the sun. Created specifically for ages 12 & under. Must be at least one adult chaperone per family. $12–$18. State Park parking fee required. 12:30–3 p.m. Robert Ferguson Observatory. 2605 Adobe Canyon Rd., Kenwood. Advanced tickets required: rfo.org/ index.php/family-day.
Sonoma-Marin Fair. This year’s theme, “Past, Present and Future Luma.” Livestock shows, still exhibits, rides, local food, free Clover ice cream sampling. $26.90–$31.04. Ages 3 and under: free. Ticket includes carnival & concert. Add’l fee for parking. June 18–21. 11 am.–11 p.m.
Gates close at 10 p.m. Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds. 175 Fairgrounds Dr., Petaluma. petalumafairgrounds.com/ petalumafair
Friday 19
FREE Movies in the Park Forestville. Screening of Back to the Future. Concession stand opens an hour before the movie begins. Bring your own low-back chairs & blankets. No pets. 8:30 p.m. Baseball Field. Forestville Youth Club. 7045 Mirable Rd., Forestville. forestvilleyouthpark.org
Peggy Sue’s All American Car Show & Cruise. June 19: 3–7 p.m: Music, food, & drive-in movie at sundown. June 20: Classic car show. 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Live music: 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Admission $10. Free: ages 12
GUÍAS ESPIRITUALES SPIRIT GUIDES
& younger. Parking $10. 5:30–8:30 p.m. Cruise Downtown Santa Rosa (free). Sonoma County Fairgrounds. 1350 Bennett Valley Rd., Santa Rosa. cruiseforpeggysue.com.
Saturday
20
FREE RioFest 2026. Kids Corner, live music featuring: Pride & Joy, Monte Rio Kids Ensemble, & more. Food, drinks, and shop local artisan crafts. Noon–6 p.m. Monte Rio Amphitheater. 9925 Main St., Monte Rio. friendsofmonterio.org.
International Dance Festival. Juneteenth celebration featuring global dance traditions with New World Ballet and guest artists. An uplifting fusion of cultures, rhythms, & stories. $35–$50. Ages 4 and under: free. 6–8 p.m. Jackson Theater. 4400
Local Online Marketplace
Day School Pl., Santa Rosa. tinyurl. com/42xk93vy
Russian River Rodeo. $8.50–$17. Ages 5 & under free. Discounts available for qualifying guests. Tickets WILL NOT be sold at the gate as in past years. June 20–21. Gates open: 11 a.m. Rodeo: 1 p.m. 23450 Moscow Rd., Duncan Mills. Tickets: tinyurl. com/54ed3hfk
Sunday 21
Father’s Day at the Museum. Fathers get free admission to the museum. General admission: $7–$15 or free for Ages 3 & younger. Discounts available for qualifying guests. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Charles Schulz Museum. 2301 Hardies Ln., Santa Rosa. schulzmuseum.org.
The Easy Way To Shop & Support Sonoma County’s Local Independent Businesses
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Monday 29
Museum Mondays for Little Ones. Ages 1–5.: $10 per child & 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
Summer Concerts
Tuesday 2
FREE Tuesdays in the Healdsburg Plaza. New bands weekly. Shop food vendors & farm fresh produce. Tuesdays. 6–8 p.m. Healdsburg Plaza. Healdsburg Ave. & Matheson
St., Healdsburg. Full musical line-up: tinyurl.com/2s8yrvy7
FREE Luther Locals Live. New bands weekly. No pets. 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. Full musical line-up: tinyurl.com/mf42zy84
Wednesday 3
FREE Cotati Community Farmers Markets Wednesday Concerts. Various bands & entertainment weekly. Food, drinks, and shop local artisan crafts. Wednesdays. 4:30–7:30 p.m. La Plaza Park. Old Redwood Hwy. & W. Sierra Ave., Cotati. facebook.com/ CotatiFarmersMarket.
Thursday 4
Summer Night on the Green Concert Series. New bands weekly. Food vendors, farm fresh produce, & family lawn games. Thursdays. Street fair: 5 p.m. Live music: 6 p.m. Windsor Town Green. 9291 Old Redwood Hwy., Windsor. townofwindsor.ca.gov/342/ Summer-Nights-on-the-Green
Friday 5
FREE Party on the Rohnert Park Plaza. New bands weekly. Food trucks, kids’ area, art & craft vendors, market, and adult beverages. Fridays. 5–8 p.m. NEW LOCATION: Rohnert Park Community Center. 5401 Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park. Full musical line-up: tinyurl.com/mr3ap6wd.
FREE Friday Night Live at the Cloverdale Plaza. New bands weekly. Food, drinks, and shop local artisan crafts. Fridays. Street fair: 6 p.m. Live music: 7–9:30 p.m. Downtown Plaza. 204 N. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale. Full musical line-up: tinyurl.com/ yrd2n987
Friday 19
Fridays at the Hood. Live music, dancing, and picnicking. Food, drinks, beer/wine sold. $22. 19–$25. Ages 12 & younger: free. Free parking. June 19 & 26: 5:30–9 p.m. Hood Mansion. 389 Casa Manana Rd., Santa Rosa. fridaysatthehood.com
Emotional First Aid Kits
Practical Alternatives to ADHD Medication
For many parents, the path following an ADHD diagnosis feels like a high-speed conveyor belt leading straight to the pharmacy. While medication has its place, the “wait and see” approach has largely been replaced by a “medicate and monitor” culture. The book, Moodtopia for Kids serves as a vital intervention in this process, offering parents the agency to investigate the root causes of a child’s dysregulation — such as sleep hygiene, sensory processing, or nutritional gaps — before committing to long-term stimulant use.
The book is particularly helpful for families wary of the trial and error phase of pharmaceuticals, which often involves navigating side effects like appetite suppression, insomnia, or personality flattening. Instead of masking symptoms, author Sara Chana teaches parents how to read their child’s unique “mood language.” By categorizing behaviors into specific temperaments, the book helps parents match natural remedies to their child’s specific type of hyperactivity or emotional outburst. This level of personalization is often missing in a standard clinical setting where a one-size-fits-all dosage may be the norm.
Furthermore, this research empowers parents to become active collaborators in their child’s health care. Rather than feeling pressured by school
systems or overwhelmed by clinical jargon, readers gain the literacy needed to discuss integrative options with their pediatricians.
With 1 in 3 children experiencing anxiety symptoms severe enough to require clinical attention, Chana discussses why childhood anxiety is surging, practical alternatives parents can explore before ADHD medication, and how herbal and homeopathic remedies can be integrated safely alongside conventional pediatric care. She also shares simple ways families can build an emotional “first aid kit” to help children navigate stress with greater confidence and calm. Chana bridges the gap between traditional medicine and holistic wellness, showing that “natural” doesn’t have to mean “unscientific.” By implementing these strategies, families can often lower the baseline of stress in the home, sometimes uncovering that what looked like a permanent disorder was actually a manageable imbalance.
even kid-friendly ice pops, Sara Chana makes natural remedies accessible and actionable for everyday families. ❖
Moodtopia For Kids delivers research-informed, practical tools parents can safely use at home to support anxiety, ADHD, mood swings, anger, and depression. From herbal honeys and teas to tinctures, oils, and
A respected voice in holistic pediatric wellness, author Sara Chana is a master herbalist, classical homeopath, board-certified lactation consultant, and mother of seven. With more than three decades of clinical experience, she works alongside pediatricians and medical professionals, helping families thoughtfully bridge natural and conventional care. She is frequently featured on national TV and in the news as a trusted expert in integrative health. 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.
