September Family Connection

Volume 09: Issue 9 | September 2026

New Routines • Fresh Starts • Stronger Families

Happy September! A new school year brings new schedules, new experiences and, sometimes, some big emotions. As families settle into fall routines, remember that adjustment takes time, for kids and adults.

A Smoother Back-to-School Transition

Predictable routines can help children feel secure and make busy school days a little easier. Try keeping mornings and bedtimes consistent, preparing backpacks and clothing the night before, and building in a few minutes each day just to reconnect.

Instead of asking “How was school?” try something more specific:

“What made you smile today?”
“What was the hardest part of your day?”
“What are you looking forward to tomorrow?”

And remember: after holding it together all day, some children come home tired, hungry and emotional. Sometimes they need a snack, some downtime, and connection before they’re ready to talk.

Rudy Gets Ready for School

Bridging the gap between home and school can help kids feel safe and secure in the classroom. Watch how Rudy’s dad, Freddy, asks questions and involves himself in Rudy’s school.

MORE SCHOOL READINESS WITH SESAME STREET

OCTOBER 16, 2026 @ 8:15am

The Partnership is open to any Door County Community member. You are especially encouraged to attend our quarterly Partnership meetings to hear what the Partnership has been working on.

DETAILS

Parenting Reminder: Connection Before Correction

When children are overwhelmed, it can be harder for them to listen or problem-solve.

Try acknowledging the feeling while still holding the boundary:

“I know you’re disappointed that screen time is over. It’s still time to get ready for bed.”

Being understanding doesn’t mean giving in, it helps children learn how to handle difficult feelings while knowing you’re there to guide them.

FREE FUN FAMILY ACTIVITIES

September 5–6 | Marina Fest – Sister Bay

Celebrate Labor Day weekend on the waterfront with live music, food and children’s activities. Festivities begin at 9:00 AM.

September 11–12 | Sunflower Fest – Sturgeon Bay

Sunflower Fest returns to Martin Park. On Friday, September 11, festivities start at 5pm. Boogie and the YoYo'z take the stage at 5:30pm and play until 9:00pm.

On Saturday, September 12, families can also enjoy the Community Walk to End Alzheimer’s followed by live music, food and family fun from approximately 11:00 AM–3:00 PM.

September 12 | Autumn Fest – Baileys Harbor | 9 AM–4 PM

Check out classic cars and motorcycles, arts and crafts vendors, food and live music for a fun fall Saturday in Baileys Harbor.

September 19 | Harvest Fest – Downtown Sturgeon Bay | Beginning at 9 AM

Welcome fall with a craft fair, food vendors, live music, shopping and more. Kids can even participate in a Root Beer Holding Contest at 2 PM! Admission is free.

September 26 | Sabor de la Door Hispanic Heritage Festival | 3–7 PM

Head to John Miles County Park for a FREE celebration featuring live music, cultural performances, traditional foods, and family-friendly activities. Additionally, there is a community soccer kickoff at 2pm.

Every Saturday | Sturgeon Bay Farmers Market | 8 AM–Noon

Visit the market September 5, 12, 19 and 26 for locally grown produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, flowers and other local products. The Door County Partnership for Children and Families in partnership with United Way of Door County is offering PLAY TIME BLVD! This is a space for families to play with blocks, paint a rock, make a bracelet, chalk art, practice those hopscotch skills and more! Check them out in front of the Door County Fire Company every Saturday from 8am - 12 noon!

REMINDER for family's who receive Foodshare (SNAP) benefits: several vendors at the Farmer's Market accept Foodshare benefits at their stands. All you need to do is stop at the United Way booth (in front of The Fire Company) and get tokens for the farm stands. You will let the United Way volunteer know the dollar amount you want converted to tokens and swipe your Foodshare benefit card on their machine. They will then give you tokens to use at the farm market stands.

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month!

A library card opens the door to books, activities, digital resources and much more - all for FREE!

Families can stop at any Door County Library branch to sign up for a first card or renew an existing one. Some branches are also offering September raffles for those who sign up or renew. Children age 15 and younger need a parent or guardian’s signature.

You can also sign up for a library card by visiting the Door County Bookmobile

BOOK MOBILE SCHEDULE