Staying close to home this fourth? Check out some of the 4th of July 2025 events happening along the Peninsula:

Half Moon Bay Ol’‑Fashioned Parade & Festival

Millbrae July 4th Beats, Brews, and Vines

Foster City Celebration & Dog Parade

San Mateo – 4th in the Park

Redwood City's 4th of July Parade, Festival & Drone Show

Palo Alto Summer Festival & Chili Cook‑Off

Mountain View – Shoreline Amphitheatre Fireworks Spectacular

It’s that time of year again: school’s out, sun’s out, and the kids are ready for some outdoor fun! Calendars are filling up with play dates, birthday parties, and other events. On top of making sure our kids are having fun, we want to make sure they are staying safe. Read on for some summer safety tips from Shyam Sivasankar, MD, a Pediatric Emergency doctor.

What are common reasons for kids to visit the Emergency Department in the summertime?

Most of the time it is going to be heat- or injury-related. To prevent heat-related illnesses: don't leave your kid in the car, stay hydrated, apply and reapply sunscreen and cover up with a hat and lightweight/breathable clothing (proper sun protection is a must!), and remember to take breaks in the shade or in air-conditioning. 

It’s important to always wear a helmet when on a bike or scooter, even if it is a "short" ride. We see lots of cuts, scrapes, bruises, broken bones, and head injuries. People often underestimate the strength of our skulls - although head injuries may seem intense, I would talk to your on-call pediatrician or nurse advice line before coming to the ED for head injuries. 

Sometimes it will be water-related (i.e. swimming or lake-related injury). If there is any concern for drowning or near-drowning, you need to call 911. If there is some coughing or difficulty breathing that persists beyond the potential swallowed water, come to the ED for an evaluation. 

What types of issues should I bring my kid into the Emergency Department for, versus Urgent Care or getting a rapid appointment with my pediatrician?

Head injuries with vomiting: Come to the ED.

Small cuts and bruises: Urgent care. Falls can usually be seen at urgent care. 

Larger cuts or lacerations, swelling of joints, or obvious deformities should go to the ED. Some urgent care centers have x-ray machines, but some limb injuries will end up being sent to the ED, and sometimes that's hard to predict. 

What’s the most important thing parents can do to keep kids safe at the pool?

Especially when water is involved, an adult must be constantly supervising and paying attention. As a general rule, assign one adult to be a photographer and everyone else should put their phones away or indoors to avoid distractions. Drownings happen in an instant, so it is best to be vigilant. All parents should also consider taking a first aid/CPR class. 

If I’m going on a hike with my kids, what would be some good things to bring in a first aid kit?

I love this question - it's a good one. I have bandaids, hydrocortisone, triple antibiotic cream, kid-safe insect repellent, sunscreen, and water. And remember to check for ticks after your hike, especially if you were in a wooded area.

____________________________________

Shyam Sivasankar is a Pediatric Emergency Medicine (PEM) physician who splits his time between Palo Alto, California and Austin, Texas. He attended medical school at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, followed by residency at Stanford University. Since completing his fellowship at Dell Children’s Medical Center, he practices as an EM physician at Stanford Healthcare and St. David’s Medical Center. 

The San Mateo Parents Club has a variety of fun events throughout the summer. Check out our Events page, and RSVP to an event for some summer fun!

Reposted with minor edits from an SMPC blog post from June 27, 2023.

Burlingame Library Family Fun Nights – Burlingame, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Open Cockpit Day at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, July 2

Chalk Festival – Redwood City, July 3

4th of July in the Park – San Mateo, July 4

San Jose Giants Fireworks – San Jose, July 4, 5, 18

Paint-A-Plane at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, July 6

Storytime at the Foster Museum – Palo Alto, July 6, 20

Slim Chance Circus – Redwood City, July 8, 9, 12

Central Park Music Series – San Mateo, July 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14

Parent’s Night Out at Filoli – Woodside, July 10, 17, 24, 31

Ka-Hon Kids Show (Free) – San Francisco, July 11

Port of Oakland Harbor Tour (Free) – Oakland, July 11

Salt Marsh Safari (Free) – San Jose, July 11

Woodminster Summer Musical: Hello Dolly – Oakland, July 11-20

Cartooning for the Whole Family – San Francisco, July 12

Color Me Mine Kids Night Out – Alameda, July 12

Roundtable Reading – Berkeley, July 12

Family Nature Adventures – Oakland, July 12

Retro Roadshow (Free) – Los Altos, July 12

Summer STEM Bash (Free) – Mountain View, July 12

Play Like a Miner – San Jose, July 12

2nd Saturday on the Farm – Watsonville, July 12

Family Nature Weekend at Filoli – Woodside, July 12, 13

Second Sunday for Families at SFMOMA – San Francisco, July 13

Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, July 13, 27

Puppet Art Theater – Redwood City, July 15, 16, 19

Kids Air Faire – San Carlos, July 16

Coventry & Kaluza (Free) – Tiburon, July 17

Unique Derique (Free) – San Francisco, July 18

Truckloads of Fun (Free) – Mill Valley, July 18

Fun-tastic Friday with Sean’s Music Factory (Free) – Palo Alto, July 18

Children’s Fairyland Summer Sleepover – Oakland, July 19

Kids Rock (Free) – Redwood City, July 19

Kidstock (Free) – Mountain View, July 19

Cupertino Campout – Cupertino, July 19

Family Fun Day (Free) – Scotts Valley, July 19

Model Railroad Show – Walnut Creek, July 19, 20

Sunday Streets (Free) – San Francisco, July 20

Trapeze Arts Performance – Berkeley, July 20

Rabbit Hole Theater – Woodside, July 20

Hansel & Gretel the Untold Story – Palo Alto, July 20-August 10

Afro-Peruvian Dance (Free) – Redwood City, July 22, 23, 26

Alice in Wonderland Jr – Mountain View, July 24-27

Once Upon a Mattress by Youthstage – Berkeley, July 24 – August 27

Manilatown Ensemble (Free) – San Francisco, July 25

Bhangra & Beats Night Market (Free) – San Francisco, July 25

Parents Night Out at Axe – Oakland, July 25

Frozen by CMTSJ – San Jose, July 25-August 3

Seaside Story Hour (Free) – Redwood City, July 26

Wet and Wild Day at the J (Free) – Palo Alto, July 26

Retro Roadshow (Free) – Gilroy, July 26

Cal Sailing Club Open House (Free) – Berkeley, July 27

Museum Mondays for Little Ones – Santa Rosa, July 28

James Henry Performance (Free) – Redwood City, July 29, 30 & August 2

Space Week at Chabot Space & Science Center – July 30-August 3

Summer is here and it's the perfect time to create lasting memories with your little ones! Whether you're looking for local adventures, easy at-home activities or day trips, we've got you covered. Here's a curated list of 10 kid-approved activities to make this summer unforgettable.

1. Splash Around at Parkside Aquatic Park

Located in San Mateo, Aquatic Park offers a sandy beach area and calm waters ideal for young children. With picnic areas and a playground nearby, it's a one-stop spot for a day of fun.

2. Explore the Japanese Tea Garden in Central Park

Introduce your child to the serene beauty of the Japanese Tea Garden in San Mateo's Central Park. Stroll through the tranquil paths, feed the koi fish and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

3. Visit CuriOdyssey at Coyote Point

CuriOdyssey is a hands-on science museum and zoo where kids can interact with exhibits and observe native animals. It's both educational and entertaining - a perfect combo for curious minds.

4. Have a Picnic at Beresford Park

Beresford Park offers ample green space, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It's an excellent spot for a family picnic.

Toddler-Friendly Picnic Menu:

• Mini Sandwiches: Ham or cheese sandwiches cut into fun shapes.
• Fruit Skewers: Chunks of watermelon, grapes and strawberries.
• Veggie Sticks: Carrot and cucumber sticks with hummus dip.
• Cheese Cubes: Mild cheddar or mozzarella cubes.

• Mini Muffins: Banana or blueberry mini muffins for a sweet treat.

Picnic Prep Tips:

• Use a large, waterproof blanket for seating.
• Pack wet wipes and hand sanitizer for easy clean-up.
• Bring a small cooler with ice packs to keep food fresh.
• Don't forget sunscreen and hats for sun protection.

5. Attend a Storytime Session at the San Mateo Public Library

The San Mateo Public Library hosts engaging story time sessions for young children. It's a great way to foster a love for reading and interact with other families.

P.S. The Wednesday story time for 18 months to 3 year-olds will be at 10:30 AM from June 11-August 13th and held at Beresford Park. 

6. Create a Backyard Water Play Zone

Set up a simple water play area at home with items like:

• A kiddie pool or splash pad.
• Water tables with floating toys.
• Sprinklers for running through.
• Buckets and cups for pouring and filling.

Always supervise water play to ensure safety.

7. Take a Day Trip to Half Moon Bay

Just a short drive from San Mateo, Half Moon Bay offers beautiful beaches perfect for building sandcastles and exploring tide pools. Lemos Farm is a delightful destination featuring train rides, pony rides and a petting zoo. It's tailored for young children and offers a hands-on farm experience. Don't forget to pack snacks and plenty of water!

8. Attend a special summer local event

Central Park Music Series

On Thursday nights June - August in Central Park enjoy free live music, food vendors, raffle and more! 

Family Fun Nights at Burlingame Public Library

Tuesday evenings in June and July, the Burlingame Library hosts kid-focused entertainment, including a magic show, puppet show, marionette theater, and bubbles! 

9. Enjoy a Nature Walk at Laurelwood Park

Laurelwood Park provides scenic trails suitable for little feet. Explore the natural surroundings, collect leaves, and enjoy a leisurely walk amidst nature.

10. Host an Outdoor Art Session

Encourage creativity by setting up an outdoor art station:

• Use washable paints and large sheets of paper.
• Incorporate natural items like leaves and sticks for stamping.
• Let your child explore colors and textures freely.

Bonus: Share Your Adventures with Us!

Summer is a wonderful opportunity to bond with your child through diverse activities. Whether you're exploring local parks, embarking on day trips, or enjoying backyard fun, these experiences contribute to your child's growth and create cherished memories.

We'd love to hear about your summer adventures! Share your favorite activities or photos with the San Mateo Parents Club community.

Bubblemania (Free) – Palo Alto, June 20

Circus Bella (Free) – San Francisco, June 20, 21

Sandcastle and Sculpture Contest – Alameda, June 21

Color Me Mine Kids Night Out – Alameda, June 21

Summer Scamper Fun Run – Stanford, June 21

Vegetable Gardening for Kids – Palo Alto, June 21

Kidstock (Free) – Mountain View, June 21

Kids Create Self Portraits – Morgan Hill, June 21

Bubblefest at Chabot Space & Science Center – Oakland, June 21, 22

Sunday Funday at Sonoma Botanical Garden – Glen Ellen, June 22

Fiesta at the Fair – Pleasanton, June 22

Bubble Bonanza at Roaring Camp – Felton, June 22

Habitot Art & STEM Day – Hercules, June 25

James and The Giant Peach by Children’s Musical Theater – San Jose, June 25-29

Eddie Madril Kids Show (Free) – San Francisco, June 27

Family Tour at the de Young Museum – San Francisco, June 28

Fairy Fun Fair – Oakland, June 28

Comicon (Free) – Livermore, June 28

Kids Rock (Free) – Redwood City June 28

Seaside Story Hour (Free) – Redwood City, June 28

Cal Sailing Club Open House (Free) – Berkeley, June 29

Storytime at the Foster Museum – Palo Alto, June 1, 15

Family Storytelling at the Asian Art Museum (Free) – San Francisco, June 1

Butterfly and Bird Festival – Fremont, June 1

Red Panda Acrobats (Free) – San Francisco, June 6

First Friday at Chabot Space & Science Center – Oakland, June 6

Port of Oakland Harbor Tour (Free) – Oakland, June 6

The Nightingale by People’s Circus Theatre – San Francisco, June 6-22

Family Art Making – San Francisco, June 7

Environmental Center Open House (Free) – Cupertino, June 7, 14, 21, 28

Second Sunday for Families at SFMOMA – San Francisco, June 8

Family Dance (Free) – Berkeley, June 8

Viva Calle (Free) – San Jose, June 8

Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, June 8, 22

Blippi: Join the Band – Santa Rosa, June 11

Something Rotten – Berkeley, June 12-30

RhythmALLogy (Free) – San Francisco, June 13

Blankets and Blockbusters: The Princess and the Frog (Free) – San Francisco, June 13

San Jose Giants Fireworks – San Jose, June 13, 14, 27

Cartooning for the Whole Family – San Francisco, June 14

Biggest Little Airshow – San Carlos, June 14

Second Saturday at Gamble Garden – Palo Alto, June 14

Proud of My Family – San Jose, June 14

Dia de Portugal Festival – San Jose, June 14

Juneteenth Celebration – Santa Cruz, June 14

2nd Saturday on the Farm – Watsonville, June 14

Father’s Day Overnight on the USS Hornet – Alameda, June 14-15

Open Cockpit Day – Oakland, June 15

Sunday Streets – San Francisco, June 15

Fathers’ Day Bike About the Zoo – San Francisco, June 15

Kids Carnival at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, June 15

Fathers’ Day BBQ at Roaring Camp – Felton, June 15

Dragons Love Tacos – Palo Alto, June 18-July 6

Cupertino Campout – Cupertino, June 19

Juneteenth Community Celebration – San Jose, June 19

African-American Dance (Free) – San Jose, June 19

In May, the Peninsula comes alive with vibrant farmers markets offering a bounty of fresh, locally grown produce. This is an especially exciting month for food enthusiasts, as it marks the start of peak season for many fruits and vegetables in the Bay Area. Here's a guide to the farmers markets in and around San Mateo, along with a look at what's in season this month.

Farmers Markets in San Mateo

25th Ave. Farmers' Market

College of San Mateo Farmers' Market

Farmers Markets Nearby

Belmont Farmers Market

Burlingame Fresh Market
Farmers Market at the Peninsula Jewish Community Center
Foster City Farmers Market
Millbrae Farmers Market
San Carlos Farmers Market

What's in Season in May?

May is a delightful month for seasonal produce in the Bay Area, as summer tree fruits and other produce start to come into season. Here's what you can expect to find at your local farmers market:

Tips for Shopping at Farmers Markets

To make the most of your visit to the farmers market:

Whether you're a seasoned market-goer or a first-time visitor, Bay Area farmers markets offer a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fresh, local produce and connect with the community. Happy shopping and eating!

Doktor Kaboom! – Santa Rosa, May 16

Oakland Greek Festival – Oakland, May 16-18

Alice in Wonderland by Diablo Ballet – Walnut Creek, May 16, 17

SF Jazz Family Matinees – San Francisco, May 17

Family Tour at the de Young Museum – San Francisco, May 17

SkyJam Festival – Richmond, May 17

Wildlife Hike (Free) – El Sobrante, May 17

Kitten Nursery Shower – Burlingame, May 17

Open Cockpit Day at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlo, May 17

South Bay AANHPI Festival – San Jose, May 17

Super Scaly Critters – Los Gatos, May 17

Pride Picnic – Santa Cruz, May 17

Boardwalk Drone Show – Santa Cruz, May 17

Model Railroad Show – Walnut Creek, May 17, 18

Creative Patchwork – Morgan Hill, May 17, 24

The Aristocats Kids – Pleasanton, May 17-25

Wildflower Hike – Clayton, May 18

Family Dance (Free) – Berkeley, May 18

Cal Sailing Club Open House – Berkeley, May 18

Marin Greek Festival – Novato, May 23-25

The Sound of Music by Berkeley Rep – Berkeley, May 23 - June 29

Meet the Reptiles, Amphibians and More! – Los Altos Hills, May 24

Carnavale – San Francisco, May 24, 25

Oklahoma Kids – Danville, May 24, 25

The Little Mermaid – Palo Alto, May 24, 25

San Ramon Art & Wind Festival – San Ramon, May 25, 26

Memorial Day Bike Parade and Picnic – Tiburon, May 27

Parents Night Out at Axe – Oakland, May 30

San Jose Greek Festival – San Jose, May 30 - June 1

Matilda Jr – Danville, May 30 - June 8

Bay Area Book Festival (Free) – Berkeley, May 31

Seaside Story Hour (Free) – Redwood City, May 31

Dinosaur Train Days – Santa Rosa, May 31 & June 1

Curiodyssey First Friday Nights - San Mateo, May 2

First Friday at Chabot Space & Science Center – Oakland, May 2

Legally Blonde Jr – Pleasanton, May 2

Friday at The History Museum (Free) – Redwood City, May 2

Slavic Festival – San Francisco, May 2-3

Penguins & Pajamas Sleepover at Cal Academy – San Francisco, May 2, 9, 30

Home Depot Kids Workshop – Across Bay Area, May 3

de Youngsters Day Out (Free) – San Francisco, May 3

A Day at The Ranch – Pt. Reyes Station, May 3

Spring Fling at Slide Ranch – Muir Beach, May 3

Color Me Mine Kids Night Out – Alameda, May 3

May Fete Parade – Palo Alto, May 3

Percussion Discussion – Walnut Creek, May 3

Santa Clara University PowWow – Santa Clara, May 3

Kids Day – Santa Cruz, May 3

Marin Irish Festival – San Rafael, May 3, 4

Fun on the Farm (Free) – San Ramon, May 3, 10, 17, 31

Environmental Center Open House (Free) – Cupertino, May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Math Quest (Free) – San Francisco, May 4

Glider Discovery Day – San Carlos, May 4

Mother’s Day Tea – Redwood City, May 4

Riparian Habitat Tour – Cupertino, May 4

Peninsula School Spring Fair – Menlo Park, May 4

Neon Scorpion Hike – Clayton, May 3, 4, 10, 11

Wizard of Oz by Fantasy Forum – Walnut Creek, May 8-10

Stanford Powwow – Stanford, May 9-11

Tinker, Code & Create at The Exploratorium – San Francisco, May 10

Family Farm Day at Slide Ranch – Muir Beach, May 10

Habitot Mobile Museum – Berkeley, May 10

Brian Scott Magic – Berkeley, May 10

Scout-o-Rama – San Jose, May 10

Storytime: Crickwing – Los Gatos, May 10

Math Festival – Sunnyvale, May 10

Birds and their Nests – Los Alto Hills, May 10

2nd Saturday on the Farm – Watsonville, May 10

Hawaiian May Day Festival – Pleasanton, May 10-11

Willy Wonka Kids – Danville, May 10-18

Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical – San Francisco, May 10-25

Blankets and Blockbusters: Moana (Free) – San Francisco, May 11

Mother’s Day Tea at Falkirk – San Rafael, May 11

Kids’ Carnival at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, May 11

Mothers’ Day Brunch at Roaring Camp – Felton, May 11

Storytime at the Foster Museum – Palo Alto, May 11, 18

Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, May 11, 25

Sustainable Sewing for Teens – Ross, May 12

Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, I was a busy working parent juggling career demands, family responsibilities and the dreaded, never-ending to-do list. Even now, managing our home, planning meals and keeping up with everything my family needs takes serious time and energy. That’s where AI has been a game-changer for me.

What Is AI, and How Can It Help Parents?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been around for a long time, and featured in many sci fi movies, but only in the last few years has it become more of an everyday support. Think of it as a super-efficient assistant that can answer questions, generate ideas and help streamline your workload. For busy moms, this means less time spent researching, planning and/or agonizing over decisions - and more time spent with your family.

How I Use AI as a Mom

Since incorporating AI into my daily life, I’ve found so many useful ways to help me stay organized, save time and reduce stress. Here are some of the most valuable ways I use it:

1. Meal Planning for the Whole Family

I used to spend too much time trying to come up with varied, healthy meal ideas that worked for my husband, toddler and myself. AI now helps me create meal plans that consider our dietary preferences and my son’s daycare lunches. It even helps me generate shopping lists so I don’t forget ingredients!

Prompt to try: “Create a weekly meal plan with easy, toddler-friendly lunches and family dinners. No bell peppers or curry.”

Bonus: Tell your AI tool what you have in your fridge and pantry and ask it to use what you have on hand. 

2. Quick Answers to Parenting Questions

From developmental milestones to weekend entertainment, sometimes I just need a quick answer without scrolling through endless search results. AI helps me find solutions fast - whether it’s a new activity to entertain my toddler or ideas for handling a nap transition.

Prompt to try:“ My 15-month-old is dropping to one nap. How should I adjust his schedule?”

Note: for any medical advice, please verify with a Doctor before proceeding with treatment.

3. Time-Saving Household Organization

Between managing a home and keeping up with my son’s needs, I’m always looking for ways to simplify. I’ve used AI to create structured weekly routines, decluttering checklists and even strategies for getting my husband more involved in household tasks.

Prompt to try: “Help me create a weekly home organization routine that includes meal prep, laundry, and daycare drop-offs.”

4. Personal Goals & Self-Care

Being a mom doesn’t mean I want to lose sight of my own goals. Whether it’s finding ways to be more active, planning a girls’ trip or picking up golf (so I can play 18 holes with my dad by 2026!), AI helps me break down my goals into actionable steps.

Prompt to try: “Create a simple weekly workout plan for a busy mom, including walking and light strength training.”

Why AI Works for Busy Moms

I know some people might feel hesitant about using AI, but for me, it’s been a way to lighten my mental load. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by decision fatigue, I can get quick, personalized suggestions and focus more on what really matters - spending time with my son, staying present and finding joy in everyday moments.

If you’re a busy mom looking for ways to simplify your life, I highly recommend giving AI a try. Start with a few prompts and see how it helps you save time and stress. You might be surprised at just how much of a difference it makes!