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Special Holiday Issue!
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a quarterly resource celebrating family life in butte county Winter 2014 November - December - January
Learning Gratitude
Awaken Appreciation in Kids
Hometown Holiday Hospitality
Downtown Chico Traditions
When in Drought
Rain Barrels Can Help
Being Adopted
National Adoption Awareness
Fun Winter Crafts and Puzzles!
...and as always our ENORMOUS calendar of events!
DeAnna Holman As the winter months approach, I am quickly reminded about how I love this time of year. I love the cool brisk mornings, the clean smell of the air after it rains, and the excitement of the holidays. With little ones in the house, the holidays are so magical. Seeing their joy and excitement makes this time of year so much fun. On the other hand, it can also be super exhausting. I often find myself so wrapped up in the holiday rush, that I forget to slow down and take time to enjoy the little things. My kids are growing up so fast; I feel like before I know it, they are going to be out of the house and off to college. This year, I have decided that I am going to slow down and really enjoy the little things with my kids because I know it is not going to last long. It is my hope that you, too, will be able to step away from the stress of the holidays and truly enjoy your time together as a family. I had so much fun working on this issue and am so thankful to live in such an amazing community. There are so many great events lined up; I hope you and your family are able to make it to some. Be sure to check out our events calendar for all the details. In addition to the wonderful events, we also have some great articles in this issue, including: questions and answers from a local family therapist, a newly released book review from a local author, fun ways to reawaken appreciation in kids, winter themed crafts, highlighting a new local business and an article on adoption as November is national adoption month. As always, I would like to thank my staff for their tremendous devotion to keeping this magazine alive and what it is today. I would also like to send out a huge thank you to our advertisers, contributors, and readers for their continued support. I am truly grateful for our advertisers, without them this magazine would not be possible. So, if you happen to do business with any of our advertisers, please be sure to mention you saw their ad in Growing Up Chico. Happy holidays from all of us at Growing Up Chico. I look forward to seeing you in the New Year! Marne Larsen Publisher
DeAnna is a former teacher and mother of three who is working as a freelance writer, editor, and graphic artist. She currently does the layouts and assists in editing Growing Up Chico! She obtained her BS from USC and her teaching credential from CSUC, Chico. DeAnna is also a breast cancer survivor who will be writing about her experiences. She lives on an almond orchard in Durham with her husband, kids, dog and cats.
Terry J. Basile,LMFT Terry is a Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Chico. She works with adults, teens, couples and families. The Ask Your Family Therapist column is part of her personal bucket list, as she enjoys supporting healthy parenting. Her book Let’s Color Your Feelings! is a tool for parents and children 3-8 to learn how to communicate feelings positively and avoid acting out behaviors. The book is available through Amazon, Lyons Books and Kindle. She can be reached at tjbasile@yahoo.com.
Chrissie Weston Chrissie has lived in Chico for 25 years and has owned Bare Feet Creations for the past 6 years. She teaches monthly camps where kids create by baking, doing art and even sewing. She also teaches themed Summer Camps and is the Co-Executive Director of The Chico Science Fair. She has two daughters who love to create as much as she does.
Emily Hajec: Emily moved to Chico in 2011 where she immediately fell in love with the beauty of Bidwell Park, the close-knit community, and the involvement of local businesses. She resigned from teaching high school English to follow her passion for photography, and is now the owner of Emily Hajec Photography in Downtown Chico (www.emilyhajec.com). When she’s not behind the lens capturing memories and milestones, Emily enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and their 2 year-old daughter, as well as with her family’s 12 year old Labrador, Lucy.
Natalie Escala Natalie is a public relations intern at Butte Humane Society, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in Chico, dedicated to saving lives, finding homes, and inspiring compassion. Visit them online at buttehumane.org.
Ken Young Ken lives with his wife in Paradise, CA. He has just released the young adult fantasy adventure, The King’s Frog Hunter, available at Lyon Books, Chico, and Amazon.com. Currently, he is writing a novel (to be released in 2015) about the impact of Early Onset Alzheimer’s on a family with four boys. He supports his writing habit as a builder of custom homes and remodeling. He also assists Habitat For Humanity as a Construction Manager. Join Ken at Lyon Bookstore for a reading from The King’s Frog Hunter on November 18th, at 7:00 PM.
Cover Photo By: Emily Hajec Photography Emily is the owner of Emily Hajec Photography, located at 341 Broadway Street. In addition to offering on-location portrait sessions to families in Chico, her studio is the only natural light boutique photography studio specializing in newborns and babies. Please visit www.emilyhajec.com for more information and to book your session today!
Marne Larsen-Publisher (530) 518-6154 marne@growingupchico.com
894-6800
2477 Forest Ave Lic#045404701, 045404702
Come by for a tour! In Chico For ages 2-12
Darci Crossin-Graphic Design DeAnna Holman-Design/Editor For Advertising Information, Contact: Rachele Thompson-Marketing Manager (530) 519-0320 rachele@growingupchico.com
Our Focus Is Always On You
Advertising Deadline: To advertise in our upcoming Spring and Women In Business Issue, please contact us by January 6th. Article and Photo Submission Deadline: Please submit family-friendly and seasonally appropriate photos and informative articles for the spring issue by December 20th.
Growing Up Chico Magazine is published quarterly and available free at around 300 family-friendly locations throughout Butte County. We are also available online at www.growingupchico.com. Copyright Š 2014 by Growing Up Chico Magazine. Reproductions without permission are prohibited. Articles and advertisements found in Growing Up Chico Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management.
CA Health & Wellness Anthem Blue Cross
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School and Home
11 Gratitude Games:
Being Grateful Can Be Fun
13 Holiday Crafts: 14
Paper Fortune Cookies Spoon Ornaments Handprint Candles
Hometown Hospitality: Holiday Time in Downtown Chico
Family Time
16 Puzzle Time:
Winter Brain Activities
19 Farm City:
Harvest Celebration
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20 Take Us Home: Holiday Pets
22 Patrick Ranch Museum: Fine Arts Fund-raiser
Parenting
28 Parenting Q & A:
Ask A Family Therapist
29 Adoption:
Non-Adoptee Privilege
30 The Nest:
Support For All Families
32 Using Literature:
Parenting Through Stories
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29 19
Growing Up Greener 24 When in Drought: Water Barrels
27 Being Greener:
Alternative Gift Wrap
IN EVERY ISSUE
04 Editor’s Note 04 Contributors
34 Events Calendar
38 Preschool Directory
39 Advertiser’s Directory: Thank You Advertisers!
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PH: (530) 342-8860
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school and home
Gratitude Games:
Fun Ways to Reawaken Appreciation in Kids By Christina Katz
Let’s face it, kids do not always feel grateful for everything they have, but just because they do not feel appreciative every minute of every day does not make them ingrates. For better or for worse, if you constantly nag your kids with lines like, “Do you realize how lucky/fortunate/blessed you are?” They will just tune you out eventually. An attitude of gratitude is something children need to be reminded to practice without excessive pressuring. In fact, if you can make scavenging for gratitude an opportunity for fun every year, everybody wins. You may be surprised to learn that your kids are a lot more appreciative than you may have thought. And they may decide that expressing what they are grateful for is not as much of a pain as they imagined. So, go ahead. Make gratitude games an annual habit every holiday season. Here are five ways to motivate your kids to dig deep and rediscover an inner well of thankfulness without feeling put out: Word Association: Let kids pull together a mind association list of words that represent moments, memories, or anything that pops into their minds in response to the question, “What do I feel most grateful for?” Family members can work alone or as a group. A parent can help a preschooler create a short, colorful list. School-age children may do better if given a number challenge like, “What are the top ten things you feel most grateful for this past year?” Keep the activity quick, fun, and light. Do not treat it like an essay assignment unless you have a writer in the family, who would enjoy answering the question in essay form.
appreciate until later because the learning process is challenging, difficult or painful. Discussing these kinds of learning experiences raises an awareness of resiliency in kids and teaches them not to shirk challenges. About a week before Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, or any special holiday, start a round robin of sharing tough lessons learned during the past year. Rather than having everyone share in one night, let one person per night share in a relaxed manner during dinner. You might just find your family swept up in some of your most educational and inspiring conversations of the year.
Photo Safari: Over the course of a weekend, give each child an hour with your digital camera or your camera phone. The assignment is to go around your house and yard, snapping photos of things that make them feel happy. These photos can include people, pets, nature, objects, places, and anything else they love. When you recover your camera, download a smattering of photos for each child into a collage format offered through your favorite local photo printing service. Have each child title the document and hang the photo collages near the holiday table. Plastic or magnetic frames make it easy to protect and store collages for next year.
Appreciation Postcard: Get a few packages of blank postcards and finepoint water-based markers from the art supply store. For young children, parents can write names and addresses of family members in permanent ink on one side of the postcard, so important information will not smear. Then, on the other side, ask your kids to write one word that describes something they appreciate about each family member and decorate the postcard to match the sentiment. Make this an annual event and family members will look forward to their handmade postcards every year.
Lessons Learned: Life is school. We are all always learning new things. Sometimes we learn things we cannot
Written On Stone: Creating a thoughtful gift for someone can stir up gratitude in even the grumpiest Pilgrim. Purchase enough large river stones from your local garden shop, or stone supplier, so that each person in attendance for Thanksgiving, or other holiday, dinner will have one with their name on it. Be sure to pick up a couple extra, just in case. Scrub stones clean with soap and water and let dry. Paint stones on the top, sides, and bottom lip in an array of colors. Across top of each stone, write guest names in large letters with permanent markers or paint pens. Let dry completely then cut words that describe each guest out of old magazines. Apply words to rims of stones with Mod Podge and sponge brushes. After the words dry, add one more coat to the stone. When stones are again dry, cut and glue a piece of felt on the bottom. Use stones as placeholders at the holiday table and watch the proud grins.
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school and home
Holiday Crafts By Chrissie Weston, Owner of Bare
Make Grateful Paper “Fortune Cookies”
Make A Fun Holiday Spoon Ornament The first time I made this ornament, I was a 7 year old girl in Girl Scouts. Since then, I have made them with my students many times, and it is a favorite!
What You Need: • • • • • • • •
Spoon (Find at thrift shops) Fabric Cotton ball or stuffing Aleene’s Fast Grab Tacky Glue and/ or hot glue Scissors (or Pinking Shears) Christmas/Holiday embellishments Pipe cleaners Drill
What To Do: Have a parent drill a hole in the top of the spoon. Cut a small piece of fabric in an oval shape a bit larger than the spoon base. Glue fabric onto the spoon base. Glue some stuffing on top of the fabric to be the snow. Next, glue the embellishments in place, creating a holiday scene (hot glue tends to work best for this). Lastly, wrap the handle with your choice of pipe cleaner. Tie a ribbon through the hole so you can hang your ornament. I like to have the kids sign and date the ornament on the bottom of the spoon.
Make A Hand Print Snowman Family Candle Votive What You Need: • • • • • •
Candle votive (I found mine at the dollar store) White craft paint Sharpie paint pens (black, orange, and brown) Mod Podge (I used glittered Mod Podge) Foam brush Candle
Feet Creations
These paper fortune cookies are easy to make. You can have your kids write “fortunes” to be opened at the Thanksgiving dinner table, Christmas Dinner, or on New Year’s Eve/ Day. These can make fun Valentine’s, wedding favors, birthday favors and more! Kids can write fortunes, or better yet, things for which they are grateful. These can be placed strategically for a specific family member (like a name card) or can be randomly placed in a large bowl so family
members can choose one.
What You Need: • •
•
4 inch circles of scrapbook paper Small paper strips with messages written on them (Grateful statements, home made fortunes, jokes, etc.) Aleene’s Fast Grab Tacky Glue
What To Do: To assemble the “cookies”: Place the fortune on back side of the cookie paper. Pinch paper in half with wrong sides together. Hold pinch with your left hand. With your right hand, put your thumb and middle finger on the edges of the fold. Push gently with your index finger in the middle, while pulling gently with your thumb and middle finger, until paper bends into a fortune cookie shape. Your left hand pinch can help guide the shape. Add a dot of Aleene’s Fast Grab Tacky Glue and hold in place for a minute until glue is secure.
What To Do: Paint your child’s hand with a generous layer of white craft paint from fingertip to palm. Press child’s hand onto votive, starting with the palm on the bottom of the votive and fold finders over one at a time, creating each snowman. Be sure to have the knuckle portion of the palm show on the front of the votive, forming the snow banks below the snowman. Wash hands and brush, and let the paint dry. Embellish the snowman family with paint pens (hats, arms, buttons and facial features). After the pens dry, use the dry foam brush to paint over the snowmen (and all four sides of the votive for uniformity) with Mod Podge. It will go on white, but will dry clear. Once it has dried, have a parent light a candle and place inside. Enjoy! Sign and date the bottom. Thank you Bare Feet Creations (Day Camps) for these easy, cute and fun holiday crafts that our readers can do with their kids! About Bare Feet Creations: Rather than Day Care, Bare Feet Creations has kids come for enriching two hour “camps.” Each camp is limited to only 8 children. Chrissie teaches kids art, crafts, sewing and baking during her monthly camps, September-May. Summer camps are offered during June-August. Visit “Bare Feet Creations” Facebook page to learn more and sign up.
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HometownHolidayHospitality
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resh off a successful Thursday Night Market season and still wrapping up from the recent Taste of Chico, the Downtown Chico Business Association (DCBA) and Downtown merchants are busily preparing for the holidays! Downtown Chico’s Hometown Holiday Hospitality officially kids off with the 37th Anniversary of Christmas Preview, scheduled for Sunday, November 23rd from 4pm-8pm. Christmas Preview is a downtown tradition and is an opportunity for Downtown businesses to debut their holiday cheer by inviting the community to delight in an evening filled with the sights, sounds and anticipation of the holidays. Streets are closed to vehicle traffic to allow for the on-street festivities which include: performances by the Children’s Choir of Chico, Sounds of the Valley Women’s Chorus, Gesundheit Barbershop Quartet, and the “hardest working band in snow business,” The Yule Logs! The Snapshots Photo Bus will be a new highlight this year, available for those special holiday memory photos! Step inside any of the wide variety of shops in Downtown Chico, and you’ll find beautiful holiday decorations, special holiday entertainment and promotions, and delicious refreshments! And as if that isn’t enough, Santa Claus will arrive by horsedrawn carriage to visit with the children and provide a photo opportunity!
On Friday, December 5th, don’t miss the Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony from 6-8pm in City Plaza. A display of holiday spirit and cheer is planned for the ceremony – making it one of Chico’s favorite holiday traditions year after year. In addition to the wonderful stage entertainment by the Children’s Choir of Chico and Sounds of the Valley, the newly appointed City of Chico Mayor will address the crowd and Santa Claus will also pay another visit to Downtown Chico, joining the Mayor on stage for the countdown to the lighting of the tree! The 60’ tall Blue Atlas Cedar tree will be lit with approximately 8,000 LED lights! Both of these events will take place rain or shine. Throughout the holiday season, the DCBA and downtown businesses will continue to provide the best customer service and hospitality in the area, with accommodations including free parking AND extended hours on Friday evenings! The Downtown Ambassadors will continue to be part of your Downtown Chico experience, helping to ensure a safe and cleaner downtown – for YOU – our guests. Come share the Hometown Holiday Hospitality. We hope that this holiday season you will remember that Downtown Chico has something for everyone on your list! For more information, contact (530) 3456500 or visit www.downtownchico.com.
Exercise Your Brain!
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family time
Help the Snowman get out of the maze.
Find 10 differences in the above picture.
When figure 1 to the left is folded to form a triangular prism, which of the figures 2-7 can be produced?
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family time
The 10th Annual Farm City Celebration Harvest Festival
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ome celebrate agriculture at the FREE, 10th Annual Farm City Celebration Harvest Festival. The event is Saturday November 8th, from 10-2pm at the Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park. We are bringing the farm to the city with a 4-H interactive animal display featuring sheep, goats, rabbits and poultry. Enjoy cattle roping and saddles provided by California Cattlewomen. California Women for Agriculture and the Glenn County Dairy Princess will have a cow milking interactive demonstration. Don’t forget to catch the CSUC stock dog demonstrations, apple painting, modern and vintage farm equipment and tractors, along with Noble Orchards sampling many apple products. The Miss Butte County Court will be assisting Girl Scouts with some fun arts & crafts, games and hands on activities. Take a horse drawn carriage ride around the Bidwell Mansion from TJ Farms Carriage Company for a special event price. Kids of all ages will enjoy Boy Scouts Troop 2 building a rope bridge obstacle course, a must experience event! Boy Scouts will be Scouting for Food; so, please bring canned food items for them.
The Bidwell Mansion will be open for first floor tours. Enjoy games, arts & crafts and a free bounce house for the kids. We are lucky to have Madison Bear Garden barbeque hamburgers for a special event price. For the ease of parking, there will be a small shuttle going from Chico Junior High School to the Harvest Festival, just look for the John Deere tractor. Bring the whole family, as the first 500 families will receive a free reusable tote bag filled with yummy local commodities and goodies. The mission of the Farm City Celebration is to increase understanding about the value of agriculture to the urban community and show its importance to all within Chico and the surrounding communities. Please visit www.farmcity.com for any additional information or feel free to email Theresa at tmbschneider@msn.com. Thanks and see you all there!
Written by Theresa Schneider, Farm City Celebration Harvest Festival Chair Photos by: Matulich Photography
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“Take Us Home for the Holidays” This holiday season, open your heart and your home to a pet from a shelter. By Natalie Escala
ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT BRINGING HOME A NEW MEMBER OF THE FAMILY THIS WINTER? Consider giving that cherished spot by the fire to an animal in need! Butte Humane Society’s annual “Take Us Home for the Holidays” adoption campaign aims to have every animal that is available on December 1 adopted into a new home by December 31. This adoption drive saves the lives of orphaned pets and raises awareness about the importance of pet adoption during the
holiday season. More families bring a new pet home during the holiday season than at any other time of the year, and there are many factors to consider. It is important to be mindful of where you get the animal, to select the pet that best fits into your lifestyle, and to keep your new companion happy and safe during the holidays.
CHOOSING PET ADOPTION One of the intentions of “Take Us Home for the Holidays” is to educate the public about the importance of choosing pet adoption, as opposed buying from a pet store or breeder. Roughly 90 percent of puppies and kittens in pet stores come from puppy mills that are motivated by profit, not the animal’s well-being. When you adopt from a shelter or rescue group, you will give an animal the second chance they might not have gotten from anyone else and you will know you truly saved a life.
SELECTING THE PERFECT FIT When you are ready for a new pet, it is easy to fall in love with the first cute puppy or kitten you meet. The key to enjoying a healthy and satisfying relationship with your new pet is to realistically choose one whose needs and personality are most compatible with your household. Bringing a furry family member home is a big decision and every adopter should be prepared and committed to providing the right environment for their pet. You want this new addition to fit
into your lifestyle, and Butte Humane Society staff and volunteers are committed to helping you find your perfect match! ‘TIS THE SEASON There may not be a greater gift for homeless animals than to open your heart and home to them and bring them in out of the cold. Taking a pet home during the holidays can be a wonderful time to add another family member, but there are several things you will need to keep in mind while transitioning your pet into your life. While
the holidays bring with them the joys of family, food, decorations and travel, these same things that bring us joy can bring dangers for our beloved pets. Drastically changing an animal’s environment can cause anxiety, delicious foods can bring about irresistible smells and unintended illness, and decorations can entice pets with the promise of a new play thing. If you adopt from Butte Humane Society, you will have access to advice and support from our behaviorists even after you have brought your new friend home.
The shelter wants to help you be an informed pet parent and make sure that your new loved one stays safe through your wintertime celebrations! WHEN THE FIRST DAY OF THE CAMPAIGN ARRIVES, a photo portrait of every animal featured in the campaign will be posted in Butte Humane Society’s adoption facilities. As each critter is adopted, a festive bow will be placed on their photo to celebrate the greatest gift they will ever receive: a loving home. Each newly formed family
will also receive a gift from the Butte Humane Society Low-Cost Spay & Neuter Clinic. Adopters will draw, at random, from a variety of coupons, including 10 percent to 50 percent off clinic services, a free engraved name tag, or a free dose of Advantage flea prevention. The holidays are a wonderful time to love and cherish your family and furry friends. To make dreams come true for these pets, Butte Humane Society invites the public to take a pet “Home for the Holidays.”
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Patrick Ranch Museum’s 6th Annual Fine Arts and Gift Fundraiser
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is the season for the Patrick Ranch Museum’s 6th Annual Holiday Fundraiser. Friday, December 5th from 4pm – 8pm, there will be a fine arts reception in Pat’s Barn with music by Aaron Jacques and friends, wine tasting by Dog Creek Winery, and hors d’oeuvres, creating a wonderful festive mood to start your holiday season. The show continues on Saturday, December 6th and Sunday, December 7th from 10am-5pm. You can meet many of the featured artists who love to discuss their work and have been working all year in their studios to create their unique and beautiful works of art. More than 30 individuals are participating in this event. You are all invited to view and purchase their paintings, photography, pottery, sculptures, fabric art, jewelry, blown glass, metal art and more. As a fundraiser for Patrick Ranch Museum, the artists donate a percentage of all sales. Come enjoy fabulous paintings by Sally Dimas, Carol Preble Miles, Amber Palmer, and paintings and photographs by the other talented artists participating in Patrick Ranch Museum’s Plein Air Program. Chris Cantello’s beautiful pottery and Mike Shaw’s amazing blown glass are all executed with wonderful craftsmanship. New designs in jewelry by Merlyn Newlin will dazzle you, as will Sara Gordon’s porcelain pottery with her symbols of a country life. We also have unique and lovely sculptures and painted gourds by Claudia and Jeff Howell; and Judy Johnson is returning
with her spectacular quilts. Back, by popular demand, is Bernie Vigallon with his pay it forward bird houses in which all funds from sales are donated to a non-traditional scholarship fund for at risk teenagers. We have some new artists joining us this year. Jewelry by Nancy Basting, Dave Richer with his iron works, and the Wood Turning Club will be exhibiting many of their fine pieces of art. There will also be wonderful local foods such as: walnuts, pomegranate marinades, jellies, jams, honey, butters, olive oils, and candles, to name a few, just in time for stocking stuffers or baskets. We are very fortunate to have Geoff Frickers, who will have his new photography book, “Sacrament: Homage to a River” for sale and signing, in addition to exhibiting his photographs. Signing will take place on Sunday afternoon. Glenwood Farm House is beautifully decorated for the Holidays and tours ($6.00 tour fee) will be available during the event. The Midway Café, located in Pat’s Barn, will be serving delicious food and beverages. The gift shop in the entry barn will be open with unique stocking stuffers, ornaments, decorations, lotions, candles, educational toys, trinkets, fine arts, and some history of the ranch and the “times.” This holiday event is a delightful and fun place to meet your friends, have a hearty lunch, get your holiday list filled, join in on the raffles, and experience a bit of history. So, come on out to the Patrick Ranch Museum and get your holiday shopping done. There is no admission or parking fee to this event.
YUM! WARM UP WITH THIS HEALTHY WINTER RECIPE
Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Chocolate Chip Muffins BY AMY BEHLKE
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y boys and I woke up on a cold, wet morning and were dying for some piping hot pumpkin chocolate chip muffins. When I looked in the pantry, I discovered we had no canned pumpkin. I was on a mission to find a recipe for similar muffins using canned sweet potato, of which I had two cans. While on this mission, I decided to challenge myself even further to see if I could modify the recipe and make it gluten free. The recipe that follows is the result of my efforts. I am curious to see if these are muffins a friend’s daughter would like. She has Celiac Disease and her mom is always searching for yummy gluten free recipes to try. Give them a try and see what you think!
INSTRUCTIONS INGREDIENTS 4 eggs ¾ cup of rice milk 2 cups organic cane sugar 1 (16 oz.) can pureed pumpkin or 16 oz. mashed sweet potato (without butter, salt, or milk) 3/4 cups safflower oil 1 ½ cups of sweet potato flour 1 ½ cups of sorghum or buckwheat flour 1 teaspoon of sea salt 2 teaspoons gluten-free baking soda 2 teaspoons gluten-free baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 - 11.5 ounce package of milk chocolate chips Preheat the oven to 375 ° F. Grease muffin pans or use cupcake papers.
In a large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, sweet potato (or pumpkin), milk, and oil. In another bowl, whisk together flour, sea salt, baking powder, baking soda and cinnamon until completely mixed. Stir in chocolate chips until incorporated in the dry mixture. Add wet mixture and stir until smooth. Place batter in muffin pans, or fill each liner, ¾ of the way full. Bake for 20 -25 minutes until cooked through.
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When in Drought
Using Rain Barrels for Water Collection By Pete Holman This year has been a very dry year and with the lack of rain, there has been water rationing in several areas of the state. Many farmers in the central valley are concerned that they will not have enough water to bring their crops to a successful harvest. It is estimated that some crops will have reduced yields and/or quality due to the lack of water. When I was growing up in the east, many of my friends who lived in the country had big wooden water barrels on their down spouts. They used them to collect rainwater, which people used to wash their hair. The rainwater was much softer than the spring water that supplied most of the household uses. We now have better ways to get water to wash our hair, but there are plenty of uses for water that we can collect from a system like this. In countries like Australia, it is common for every house to have a rain barrel or other means of rain water collection. At the Evergreen Six School in Paradise, they have installed four rain barrels with the intent of using the water as the primary source for moisture to maintain their worm bins to produce compost. Many people use the water from a system like this to provide water for their gardens or landscapes. These systems can be as simple as having your down spout dump into a container so that the water can be bucketed out for your use. Or they can be as technical as a system I saw described on “This Old House” a while ago. The water was directed from all of the downspouts to a sump, and then pumped into a 1200gallon tank on the property. The tank was then connected to the irrigation system for the landscape. This system used drip or soaker irrigation so that it would work on low pressure. Some cities are limiting the amount of water that you can put into the storm systems because of the cost of treating that water. A rain barrel can help offset water run-off. Hopefully, I have sparked your interest in doing something to use the rainwater from your roof. There are several things that you need to consider before you start to put together your system. First, you need to decide on the amount of water that you want to have to deal with. Second, you will need to determine what kind of container you want to use. Finally, you will need to determine how you are going to divert the water to your storage system. There are a number of possibilities for containing the water. One option is a 30 gallon plastic barrel. These barrels are very common and are available in this area at most of the stores that sell surplus goods. I have seen them in the $20 range. They can be connected in a series to increase the capacity of the system. These barrels work well since they are light to move around, easy to keep clean, and the can be cut to handle the plumbing quite easily. If you make your own barrel, a hose bib can be put into the barrel a couple inches from the bottom. This is easy to do with a polypropylene tank adapter used to plumb agricultural spray and injector tanks. They are available at most agricultural supply dealers and come in most standard pipe sizes. There are several ways to divert the water. The simplest way is to take a plastic down spout adapter, connect it to some flexible drainpipe and run it directly into the container. You may want to use
some screen to keep leaves and sticks out and you should make some kind of provision for when the container is full. The second one is a commercial diverter that replaces a section of the downspout and has a section that you pull out when you want the water. The “Water saver” is another commercial diverter, but the big advantage is that it will automatically send the water into the downspout when your container is full. Since it uses a tube of about ¾ of an inch, it is easy to plumb into the barrel so that no outside trash can get in. I hope that you are now thinking, “Maybe I can begin to do something with rainwater to benefit my lifestyle.” There is a lot of information available on this subject. One good place to start is the DIY Network at /www.diynetwork.com. Very simply, go to their web site and search for “rain barrels.” If you do not wish to build your own system, there are many gardening web sites, such as hayneedle. com and greatamericanrainbarrel.com, that have a complete water barrel kit for around $120. One last word of warning, NEVER use the water collected in rain barrels for drinking. There could be things in the water from the roof, or the barrel, that would not be healthy. The warm, damp environment in the barrels is perfect for the growth of many organisms. It is good practice to mark your barrels with a warning that the water is not potable (drinkable).
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growing up greener
Greener Alternatives to Wrapping Paper By DeAnna Holman
Photo Courtesy of www.coplusk.net
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have seen many articles about ideas on ways to be greener. Some of the ideas are very involved and a busy mom like me would have little time to make them work, but many of the articles are about easy ways to be a little greener. At our house, we do what we can and feel like every little change makes a big difference. We have done things like going solar, using water bottles, trying to remember enough reusable shopping bags, having compost, etc; however, when it comes to some of the things that fill the landfills during the holidays, such as: paper waste, packaging, cardboard, Christmas cards, etc., many, like myself, can find it easy to get caught up in the season and overlook ways to easily be a little greener. We can compost some of the paper, but when we give gifts, there is a lot of waste that goes into our landfills. I think it is fun to use some alternatives to conventional wrapping and packaging to try to “Green” up the holidays. I do like the look of black and white so using newspaper to wrap gifts is a great idea. Also, my kids love the Sunday comics and people have used the comics to wrap gifts for years. There are cute winter comics that come out during the season that would be cute on wrapping paper. We save ribbons and bows and we use ribbon made of reusable fibers like raffia and twine. Nature looks great on gifts: You can wrap in a paper shopping bag (if
you forgot to use your reusable ones) and use nature to decorate it. Brown paper looks great with twine trim, pinecones and greenery from outside. There is biodegradable paper and cellophane you can purchase and there are many papers available that are made of 100% recycled materials. One woman gave me the great idea for wrapping using children’s drawings or paintings. We all get a lot of our kids’ work sent home from school and wrapping gifts in it can give each gift a very customized look. Grandparents love to get gifts wrapped in the art of their grand kids! There are many things that can be reused or re-purposed for wrapping. One fun idea is using fabric. It is extremely durable and can be reused over and over. You can use old sheets, pillow cases, fabric scraps, old sweaters, blankets, dish towels and any other fabrics you can find. We like to save gift bags and reuse them and we have often used reusable bags to put gifts in. Re-using an item, like a gift bag, doubles the life of that item. If you use reusable tote bags for your gifts, you are giving an extra gift. You can purchase reusable bags in great colors now and you can really get creative. My best friend once gave me a bowl of reusable bags that could each be tucked into a tiny strawberry shaped bag. Together, they looked like a bowl of strawberries. They were so cute and they could be reused over and over.
Other things you can use for gift wrap: • Maps • Sheet music • Pages of old books • Calendars • Magazine pages • Unused scrap booking paper • Foil • Blueprints • Wallpaper • Posters One of my favorite things to do is make gift baskets, buckets, tubs or organizers. You can use pots, vases, flower pots, colanders, bowels, ball jars, or bins. I also like to wrap in new dish towels, a scarf, a drink decanter or a vase or a fun T-shirt that goes with the theme of the gift. There are so many easy ways to wrap gifts this year and feel like you are making a difference. If you are like me and enjoy being creative, and you want to be a little greener, using alternatives to traditional gift wrap is a great way to do your part. Helping to better our Earth is a great gift for our kids and their future. Happy wrapping!
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www.growingupchico.com
parenting
Terry J. Basile, Marriage and Family Therapist
Ask Your Family Therapist
Welcome to the parenting question and answer column for Growing Up Chico Magazine. Here, you get to ask those special questions that are in the back of your mind that you might be reluctant to ask a friend or relative. Or perhaps you would like information on dealing with inappropriate behavior, school problems or sibling conflict. I guarantee that your question will help many other parents. My answers are based on my experience as a mother and my work for over 35 years as a therapist for children and families. Please send your questions to: info@growingupchico.com. The following questions come from parents who stopped by our table at a recent GUC event in downtown Chico.
Q
I have two daughters, ages three and seven. Sibling rivalry has turned my house upside down. They complain, yell and tantrum about each other. The older child was an easy child until her sister was born. The younger one is starting to learn inappropriate behaviors. I feel like I am just making deals with the older one to keep the peace. What can I do to change this?
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First, let’s address the issue that you have lost control of your home to a seven year old! One of the principles of good parenting is providing a safe home environment. That is your job as a parent and you need to invest in making some changes. The hardest part for most parents is establishing consistent family values, rules and consequences to guide children in their daily life. This is not always easy in our busy lives, but it is the key to quality family time. Here are some suggestions: • Sit down with your partner and identify your most important values for your family life. • Create a “Family Mission Statement” that in just a few sentences describes these values. For example, “Our house will be a place of safety, respect and love. We will work with any conflict in calm, supportive and positive ways. We will cherish our differences, but work at making our house a special place to grow.” • Have a family meeting and share this statement with your children. Help them understand it in their language. You can
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ask for their input and add some of what they think is important to the document. Make a nice copy of the mission statement and put it up someplace where everyone can see it. Create an action plan. Start from scratch. How would you like your house to run? To make effective change, you need to first be clear about your goals. Identify trouble spots like transitions during the day or evening. You need to have structured rules about how to interact as family members. Then, determine together consequences and rewards for behavior. Look at things you have tried and be honest about your consistency and follow through. I would encourage you to explore several available parenting strategies such as 1,2,3 Magic and Mindful Discipline. The value of teaching your child impulse control will reap benefits their whole life. Children are always watching and learning from us. What we do is as important as what we say. You must treat each other with the respect you want them to give you and each other. Have another family meeting and explain how the new family rules are going to work and a start date. Be sure to plan some special family events to build positive family experiences. Check back on a regular basis, as the parenting team, to adjust your goals and strategies as you discover what works most effectively.
Q
When I bring my three year old son to a play group he just sits in the corner and looks sad? What should I do?
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All children are more comfortable in some situations than others. I remember my son at that age and I would go through all the hassle of getting us to the playground and he would sit playing in the sand. He had lots of ways to be social with other kids so he didn’t need to be at the playground for that. He was not interested in the playground equipment. So, I bought a sandbox and put it on our apartment patio and he was thrilled. We still went to the playground, but I changed my expectations so we were both happier in the end. Your child might be overwhelmed by the usual activity of a play group. I would suggest you back up and schedule some small one-on-one play dates and see how he reacts. Have an activity that the children can share like a trip to the local children’s museum rather than all free play. He just might be more of an introvert and he will need you to nurture his socialization skills with care. Don’t forget to give him simple, positive feedback (I like how you shared your toys with Dan today) for his participation in playdates.
Adoption and Non-Adoptee Privilege By Judy M. Miller
adopted? Have you considered the benefits that you derive from your non-adoptee status? I am a non-adopted person. In reflecting on this “invisible” status, I realize that I take much for granted. Think about it... I know exactly when and where I was born. I know how my mother gave birth to me, how long she labored before expelling me in the world under the bright white lights of the sterile surgical suite. I know I was wanted, and that my parents enjoyed creating me. I have had no problem getting my birth certificate before I married my husband or when we adopted our children. All of my birth information is on my birth certificate; nothing is redacted. My birth certificate is not a delayed birth certificate.
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I know my story. When I have craved to know more, I have been able to ask my parents and grandparents, read family letters, and explore the genealogy contained within the front pages of my mom’s family Bible. I relentlessly peppered my grandmother with questions about her father, and was eventually rewarded with a fantastical black sheep family story. Such information provided me with history that fascinated me and helped me to understand her and appreciate the fortitude of my family. doption: It touches me every single day. You see, three of my four children were adopted.
Perhaps you also have had personal experience with adoption. The Donaldson Adoption Institute estimates that over 100 million people in the U.S. have a connection with adoption. Yet, those who have been adopted, as well as the parents that brought them into this world and the families they are adopted into, face discrimination daily. As a parent who has adopted, I am often asked adoption-related questions or I find that others willingly share their opinions about adoption without any prompting on my part. Because I am an adult, have years of parenting experience under my belt, and work as an adoption professional, I can confidently navigate most situations quite well. Although I have “armed” my kids (taught them to have several plans of action for the comments, questions and stares that often accompany adoption), I worry. The questions, comments and stares occur with increasing frequency as my kids navigate their roads to adulthood; when they are also working through identity issuessimilar to all others moving through adolescence-and tackling what it means to be adopted. As tweens and teens, they are more vulnerable to the questions, comments, and scrutinizing (especially since we are a multi-racial family) because they spend more time with peers or are in the “firing line” of those who may or may not know them or have compassion for adoption.
I see myself reflected back in the shared physical characteristics of my brothers, nieces, nephews, and son born to me. People have always shared how they can pick us out of a crowd. I know that my dimples, curly hair and ruddy complexion come from my father and my stature, smile, and eyes are gifts from my mother, who I resemble more and more as I age. I share left-handedness with my maternal grandfather, who died when my mom was just two-years-old. I know my medical history: what issues and diseases occur frequently within our family gene pool. I know what my mother, brother and grandparents died from. I know about the fertility and female health of the women in my family. I can provide answers in confidence when asked by my physicians. I am not wary of others when they inquire about my family by others. I am not concerned about being judged by the moral or political biases others hold about adoption, my birth mother/parents, birth country, or culture of origin. I do not wonder whether I should share my status = adopted. I am not asked a range of questions about adoption, or expected to be a bridge for parents who adopt or for people of my race or ethnicity. I am not expected to feel gratitude for being part of my family. I am not made to feel that being curious about where I come from or seeking answers make me ungrateful or “angry.”
Compassion: the ability, desire to feel and understand another with great empathy. Compassion enables humans to interconnect and provide understanding and support for one another. Judgment falls to the wayside.
The non-adopted cannot walk in the shoes of those who have been adopted; however, they can, through reflecting on their non-adopted privilege, begin to understand and develop the tools of empathy and compassion for those who have been adopted. They can intentionally work to be considerate of adopted persons, their birth parents, and the families who have adopted. They can think before they speak or act.
For those of you who are not adoptees or do not parent adopted children, have you deliberated on what it is like to not have been
**November is National Adoption Month.
parenting
The Nest: Support for All Families A One Stop Shop For Parents
Photos and Article By: Emily Hajec
All parents can relate in some way to the age-old adage, “It takes a village to raise a child.”
www.growingupchico.com
Regardless of the dynamics or demographics, at the base of any healthy family is one major component: Support. This is what The Nest is all about. Officially opened to the public in July 2014, The Nest houses a group of highly trained professionals who are both dedicated to and passionate about providing families with the tools they need in all aspects of their health and wellness. “Every parent needs support, and we truly offer families a safe place to seek advice and support without judgment from others,” says owner of The Nest, Sara Tingey Gordon. Whether through parent education classes, support groups, workshops, or private consultation, Gordon assures that The Nest has something to offer every family who may be seeking support.
With a B.A. in Sociology and M.A. in Family Studies, Gordon has seen, firsthand, the consequential results of families who do not receive the necessary support. “I have seen women
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and families struggle when they don’t get the support they need. The sooner we can provide support, the stronger those families will be for the lifespan.” Gordon’s passion for helping women, and her inspiration for forming The Nest, stems from her dedication to educating families in the community. For six years, Gordon worked for Butte College and the Foster Kinship Care Education Program. Following this, she received her Doula and Childbirth Educator training through DONA and Lamaze International. But most importantly, Gordon herself is a mother of four which makes her connection to The Nest and its participants even more profound.
Think of it almost as a one-stop shop for parents. “Our members are highly trained and qualified in their fields,” asserts Gordon. “We (The Nest) are a collaboration of professionals who have come together under one roof to offer support to moms and dads in the community.”
Gordon adds that the success of The Nest hinges on how much the community utilizes it. Whether seeking a weekly prenatal yoga class, group support from other parents, individualized one-on-one therapeutic care, or perhaps simply a referral, The Nest hosts an impressive list of professional services.
With an incredibly warm, welcoming, and professional atmosphere, The Nest truly offers a unique resource to parents in the community.
While all classes at The Nest are facilitated by professionals trained in their vocation, Gordon adds, “We absolutely welcome input from the community, and are currently seeking ideas from parents about classes they would like to see offered at The Nest.” For more information about the classes and services offered to families, or to find out more about becoming a professional member at The Nest, please call 530-828-1900 or visit www. thenestchico.com. The Nest is located at 7 Governors Lane, Chico, CA, 95973.
Use Literature to Help With the Tough Job of Parenting
www.growingupchico.com
parenting
By Ken Young
it simply how we value time? How we choose to allocate our time? And, what better way can there be but to spend this limited ‘currency of time’ than on the best thing we create throughout our entire lifetime: our children?
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o, one thing my wife and I did to utilize this time more effectively was unplug the television. For five years we eliminated TV from our environment (And, if we had today’s digital devices, these too, would have been locked away for the evening). In place of sitting in front of television, we spent this time reading books aloud to one another. We read literature that reflected the values we held, and desired our child to embrace as an adult.
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hen our only child was five years old, I started writing short stories for her. At first they were whimsical stories about fathers and daughters in a land with frogs twice the size of men, giant shell creatures, a mysterious owl, an evil magician, and a fearless hunter. At the same time, we surrounded her with stories from literature that reflected her mother’s and my values.
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e intentionally embraced literature as one of the tools in our parenting arsenal. As our daughter grew, the characters in my story developed. The story became more of an example of characters becoming strong, and taking responsibility for their lives and destiny. The animals and humans continued to lead me into deeper themes, including: honesty, loyalty, endurance, responsibility, service to others, meaningful relationships, graciousness, mercy, and to stand up to the ever-present insidious aspect of evil.
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onstructive parenting takes time—a rare commodity these days. Or is
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e found books and storytelling to be a wonderful tool in our parenting toolbox. Books were our teachers, relieving us from being the sole role of ‘sage on the stage’ or Rulerof-her-life (very helpful as the teen years approached). Instead of lecturing, we could cozy down onto the couch alongside our daughter—as participants, as equals—at the spectator level—to read, hear, and follow the sage wisdoms from characters within a story. Together, we could recognize beautiful human qualities, discuss confusing situations, analyze problem-solving decisions, and define life truths.
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he started suggesting books to us that she was reading at school or had been recommended by a friend. We read books that I never would have experienced if it wasn’t for her. When conflicting values arose on the pages, we used them. We would ask our daughter to explain the pros and cons of such choices or attitudes. This was a cool strategy that helped our child learn how to think, as well as how to see and understand both sides of an issue. And, best of all, she was the one to point out right versus wrong (not us)!
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ur daughter is now forty years old (which I find hard to believe). She is successful in her career and relationships. She remains an avid reader and seeker of knowledge. Gratefully, she possesses and
lives the values we sought to surround her with throughout her childhood. We are very grateful for the community of support and wisdom the three of us received from hundreds of authors.
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or several years, my daughter has prodded me to compile the stories I wrote for her into one book—which I have finally done in the book, The King’s Frog Hunter. It is a story about choosing the right path, about being strong, and the power of truth, all wrapped into a fantasy adventure.
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here are so many wonderful books and stories available for all ages to explore. Visit your local bookstores (Lyon Books in Chico). Check with the public library, and have your child ask their teachers and search their school library for books that resonate with your particular value set. These books can become a vital tool in your parenting toolbox; a partner in helping your child become the values you hold close.
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will be presenting The King’s Frog Hunter at Lyon Books at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, November 18th. Please join us and purchase your autographed copy!
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appy reading throughout your beautiful parenting experience!
events eventscalendar calendar
Sunny Garden Montessori Mommy and Me Playgroups:
An ongoing weekly PLAYGROUP for children and their parents. Children will be introduced to stimulating toys and activities; all guided by their parent! Please call 343-3101 for more information or visit www.sunnygardenmontessori.com.
Sliver Dollar BMX: First race is FREE for those looking to try something new here in Chico! There are racers as young as 3 years old and all ages are welcome! Practice/ racing every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, weather permitting. “Like” us on Facebook www.facebook.com/sdbmx to receive current track updates. Roo’s Zoo Skate Session at Cal Skate: Join Roller-Roo for this specially designed session for kids 10 & under–strollers welcome. 10am-12pm. $5.50/child, includes quad skate rental (parents skate for $2.75); or $25/6-weeks. 343-1601. MOPS Chico: MOPS
at Grace Community Church: support group for mothers of children 0-preschool, just like you! Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays September-May. Call for more information: 343-5528. Free Childcare.
www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com
Check out all of the great things we have to look forward to this winter! Please note that dates and times are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm events.
Ongoing Events Gateway Science Museum: Come explore the Gateway. Visit the many hands
La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Group: La Leche League offers mother-to-mother support for breastfeeding. Meetings are free; babies and young children are always welcome. Meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at 9am at The Nest (7 Governors Ln ) and the fourth Monday of each month at 10 a.m. at Bidwell Presbyterian Church (208 W First Street ). For more information please email lllchico@gmail.com or find the group on the LLL of Chico Facebook page. Rowell’s Pals Playgroup: A diverse playgroup for parents & little ones ages 1-5,
Chico Certified Farmers’ Market-Saturdays:
Chico Museum:
Childbirth Preparation: 5-week series taught by highly trained registered nurse instructors will help prepare you for birth, newborn care & breastfeeding. Promotes individual & family choices, including natural breathing & relaxation techniques & pain management options. Wednesday evenings, 6-8:30pm. On-going. Pre registration with payment required. Call 332-3970 for more information or to register.
Fantastic Fridays: Athletic Horizons has the ultimate playgroup! Takes place on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month for all children, walking to 5 years old. Contact for more information: 893-4967 or www.athletichorizons.com.
Pregnancy Education Series: This four-week childbirth education series is designed to prepare expectant women and their support person for their childbirth experience. We recommend that you choose to attend a session that ends one month before your baby is due. Call 876-2518 to register or go to www.frhosp.org for more information.
Kids Night Out:
Fridays at In Motion Fitness from 5:30-9:30. Each night includes dinner and an exciting activity. Must pre-register. Call 895-kids or visit www.inmotionfitness.net to find out more.
Enloe’s Mother and Baby Education Center: Ongoing before baby classes,
Chapman Food And Fitness Festival: Held every Friday from 2–5:30pm at 1010
MOMS: Making Our Mothering Significant is a group of moms who get together to share the joys and challenges of motherhood. Every mom needs a community that will encourage and support her. 1193 Filbert Ave, on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 9am, from September through May. Child care is provided. First meeting is free! Contact EV Free Church for more information: 343-6022.
Take advantage of all the wonderful produce grown locally at Chico’s year round Farmers’ Market. Held every Saturday from 7:30am-1pm, rain or shine. Located at 2nd and Wall St. parking lot.
Open Wednesday - Sunday, noon to 4pm; donations gladly appreciated. Located at Second and Salem Streets, Downtown Chico. Phone 891-4336, or visit www.chicomuseum.org.
Family Swim: The 90 degree indoor pool is always comfortable any time of year. Family Swim is open to anyone (no membership required) on Fridays from 5-8 pm. Cost is just $2 per person. For more information, contact Chico Water Sprites at 342-2999 or visit www.chicowatersprites.com. Chico Air Museum: The Chico Air Museum is located at the Chico Municipal Airport.
growing up chico magazine growing growin up up chico chico magazine magazine
Bidwell Park was made for exploring and having fun. The Chico Creek Nature Center offers kids of all ages a place to interact with animals and nature, discover Bidwell Park’s diverse ecosystem and learn about preserving this natural resource. After school, preschool, and family programs. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 11am-4pm. 1968 East 8th Street, 891-4671, bidwellpark.org.
on exhibits for kids and families of all ages. See ad in this issue for more information on current exhibits. Open Wed. through Sun. noon to 5pm. For more information, call 898-4121 or visit www.csuchico.edu/gateway.
Cleveland Ave. For more information, call 624-8844 or visit www.cChaos.org.
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Chico Creek Nature Center:
This museum features air exhibits that are fun for the whole family! Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9am-4pm. FREE! 147 Convair Court, 345-6468.
of all abilities. Come sing, dance, read & play. 10-11am, Fridays. Free; preregistration encouraged. Rowell Family Empowerment of N. CA, 3075 Cohasset Rd., #2. 899-8801.
after baby classes as well as safety classes. Call 332-3970 to register or go to www. enloe.org and click on Mother and Baby Care Center for more information.
Chico Art School: Classes in painting and drawing for ages 7+. All levels. Monday-
Saturday. Email for homeschool, after school and adult class availability. $25 per class-1 1/2 hr. Email Janet@chicoartschool.com or find them on Facebook: www.facebook. com/ChicoArtSchoolandGallery.
Book Family Farm: Fun, Educational, Year Round Field Trips & Tours, and Grass-Fed
Chico & Oroville. Hands-on building workshop for ages 5-12. Saturdays, 9am-12pm. Free. Chico: 342-0477; Oroville: 538-0521.
Meats. For up to date info, “like us” on Facebook, visit bookfamilyfarm.net, or contact bookfamilyfarm@gmail.com.
Lowe’s Build and Grow Workshops: Free kids clinic, Saturdays at 10am. Must pre register at: www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call for more info.
Chico Yo Yo Club:
Butte County Library:
Barnes & Noble Storytime: Held weekly on Wednesdays at 11am and Saturdays
Home Depot Kids Workshops:
Preschool Storytime for 3-5 years: stories, songs & craft Tues-10am and 11am; Babies Love Books 0-18 mos. stories, songs & bounces Wed-9:30am and 10:30am; Toddler Story time for 1-3 years stories, songs & action rhymes Fri-10am and 11am. Please call for more information on Japanese Story time, Spanish Story time, Chinese Story time, FREE after school tutoring and Chess Club. 891-2762, www.buttecounty.net/library.
Free Tennis Clinic: Held every Saturday at the Chico Racquet Club at 10am, open
to all ages. 1629 Manzanita Ave, 895-1881.
Come learn new tricks, show off your skill, & win great prizes. Bird in Hand in Downtown Chico. Every Saturday at noon. 893-0545.
at 2pm in the children’s book section. Every 3rd Friday, join them for American Girls Club at 7pm. Call 894-1494 for more info.
Family Skate Night: North Valley Hockey, go to www.nvhsc.org for more info. Chico Dojo: Kids Karate classes for kids 3 and up. 30 years of teaching experience. Classes include: All Belts Kids Karate, Adults All Belt Karate, Kabudo (Weapons Training), and Advanced Karate. Please call 898-9753 or go to www.chicodojo.com.
Museum of Northern California Art (MONCA): The Museum of Northern California Art (MONCA) opens the door to world-class art works for everyone. The mission of the Museum is to make art accessible and promote awareness of northern California artists through collections, exhibitions, and educational programs. www.monca.org. Chico Doula Circle: Free Prenatal Workshops first Thursday of each month from 7-8pm and third Sunday of each month from 2-4 pm. Clients and potential clients can come to as many workshops as they choose. Clients shape the topics to fulfill their unique needs. During our meetings, we welcome new families, attend to established clients, and present experiential learning opportunities on a variety of topics related to pregnancy, birth & breastfeeding. For more information visit www.chicodoulacircle.com. Jazzercise:
FREE Childcare! Contact for more details and class times. 896-9743, www.jazzercise.com.
Patrick Ranch Museum: The Patrick Ranch Museum is open on Saturdays for tours of the Glenwood Farm house. Visitors can take a tour of the ranch, visit the chickens and see the variety of birds. Tours from 11am-3pm. See online for upcoming events on Saturdays at patrickranchmuseum.org or call 342-4359. The cost is $5.00 per person/ children 5 years and under are free. The Mom Spot: A place for mothers of young children (birth through kindergarten) to connect by building friendships and sharing experiences. Meets on second and fourth Tuesdays of the month 9-11:30 am (September-May). Join us for a hot breakfast, craft, speaker, and free onsite child care. Yearly membership fee is only $10! Meets at Paradise Alliance Church 6491 Clark Rd. Paradise-call for questions 877-7069.
The Nest:
The Nest is a collection of highly trained professionals serving women and their families. From pregnancy to birth and through the postpartum period, they provide a range of services, classes, and events to support and empower our clients and their families. For more info and a complete listing of classes, go to www. theNestChico.com.
Motherhood Mondays: A weekly moms group for moms with babes 0-18 months. Facilitated by local mamas as an open forum to check in, swap stories and learn from one another. Once a month we will invite a guest speaker from our community to share their wisdom. This group meets at noon so working moms are welcome to attend with or without their babies (and yes, you can bring your lunch!) Held on Mondays from 12:30-2 pm, please go to www.theNestChico.com for more info.
Bricks 4 Kids: Our programs provide an extraordinary atmosphere for students to build unique creations, play games, and have loads of fun using LEGO® bricks. The activities are designed to trigger young children’s lively imaginations and build their self-confidence. After school programs, birthday parties, camps, playgroups, Kidz night out, scouting, open play and drop off for ages 5 and up. Call 332-9172 or go to www.bricks4kidz.com for more details.
November Legally Blonde, The Musical Saturday, November 1st - Sunday, November 9th
A fast-paced, laugh out loud, musical comedy that will have you tapping your toes. For more details go to www.chicotheatercompany.com.
Menopausal Wisdom ~ A discussion group for Women over 40 Mondays, November 3rd, 10th, and 17th
This Discussion group is designed to create a safe place for women to discuss and receive information regarding the physical, emotional, and social needs of women during the menopausal years. Facilitated by Anasuya Basil. Must Pre-Register. Topics to be covered will include: Our Changing Physiology, Cultivating Appreciation for our Appearance, Nutrition & Self Care, Our Place in the Community. www.TheNestChico. com.
Full Moon Wellness Treatments for Kids Wednesday, November 5th
Chico Community Acupuncture for ages newborn through 7 years old. $10 per kid. 345-5300, www.ChicoCommunityAcupuncture.com.
Butte Parent Cafe-Chico Friday, November 7th
Parent Cafes are free public events that allow parents in Butte County to have meaningful, guided conversations to solve problems that may affect their children. Dinner and child care are provided at NO COST! Parents, Foster Parents, Grandparents, Providers, and anyone in the community who is interested in strengthening their family, is encouraged to attend. 6-8pm at Chico Junior High.
Warrior Moms Support Circle:
10th Annual Farm City Celebration Harvest Festival Saturday, November 8th
New Mothers Circle:
Animal Language Preschool Program Saturday, November 8th
This group is designed for moms of babies with medical challenges or special needs. If you have a baby with special medical needs/condition or developmental special needs this group is here to offer support, encouragement, and friendship from other moms who understand your experience. Moms with babies up to 2 years and expectant moms welcome. This group meets at noon so working moms are welcome to attend with or without their babies (and yes, you can bring your lunch!). Every first Wednesday 12noon-1:30 pm. Please go to www.theNestChico.com for more info.
Is motherhood different than you expected? Do you find yourself thinking, “No one ever told me...” or “If only I had known...”? This group is a safe place where you can come and talk about ALL the realities of motherhood, struggles and challenges, as well as joys, and get the support you need. Learn about local resources available for addressing the challenges you may have and meet other moms who can share your experience. Located at The Nest, held weekly on Thursdays, 10-11 am, www.theNestChico.com.
Cesarean Recovery and VBAC Support Circle:
Every Third Wednesday from 10-11 am. This is a mom led group designed to support women who have had elective and unplanned cesareans, as well as those attempting VBAC (vaginal birth after c-section). This group does NOT offer medical advice, rather it is designed to give moms a safe space to share and process their experiences, share tips for recovering from surgery, and support one another in their future birthing choices. Come meet other moms who have shared your experience and get the support and understanding you deserve! Please go to www.theNestChico.com for more info.
Professional Members Round-Table: Third Wednesday of each month 121pm. Share your lunch hour with other Professional Members of The Nest to discuss ideas, meet other practitioners, share business tips and experiences and stay informed on current events in our local birth community. This meeting is a great way to share ideas and develop relationships with professional members of our birth community. www.theNestChico.com. Kids in Safe Seats: Low cost car seat program for Butte County residents. For more info on this program, please call Butte County Public Health 800-339-2941. The Studio:
Children’s painting classes, mixed media, family painting parties, birthday paint parties, and summer camps. Also offers adult classes and painting parties. By local artist Christine Mac Shane, 370-1285, 561 East Lindo Avenue.
Come celebrate agriculture at the FREE, 10th Annual Farm City Celebration Harvest Festival from 10am-2pm at the Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park. Numerous hands on activities for kids of all ages. The mission of the Farm City Celebration is to increase understanding about the value of agriculture to the urban community and show its importance to all within Chico and the surrounding communities. Please visit www.farmcity.com for additional information.
This special preschool program will be held at The Chico Nature Center at 11am. Please call 891-4671 or go to www.bidwellpark.org.
The Nutcracker Cast at Barnes & Noble Storytime Saturday, November 8th
Chico Community Ballet cast members will read “The Nutcracker” during story time. Select characters of the cast will dance a selection from the ballet for audience members to enjoy. 2pm in the Children’s section at the Chico Barnes & Noble.
Pilobolus Tuesday, November 11th
One of Chico’s favorite dance companies returns to the Laxson Auditorium stage. For more than 40 years, Pilobolus, named for a barnyard fungus that propels its spores with amazing speed and accuracy, has continued to push the boundaries of dance. Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com for more info.
Whose Live Anyway? Thursday, November 13th
Ryan Stiles and friends return with the quick-witted improvisational comedy that last left Laxson audiences rolling in the aisles. With no script, this troupe of great comedians improvises songs and skits, armed only with audience suggestions and talent. Come ready to be part of the show. Call 898-6333 or go to www. chicoperformances.com for more info.
Santa Arrives at the Chico Mall Friday, November 14th
Visit Santa at Chico Mall! Santa is at Sears Court Mon-Sat, 10am-9pm and Sun, 11am6pm, Nov 14-Dec 24. Santa takes two 1 hour breaks at approximately 1pm and 5pm. Call 343-0706 if you have any questions. www.chicomall.com. Continued on Page 36
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Butte Parent Cafe-Oroville Friday, November 14th
Parent Cafes are free public events that allow parents in Butte County to have meaningful, guided conversations to solve problems that may affect their children. Dinner and child care are provided at NO COST! Parents, Foster Parents, Grandparents, Providers, and anyone in the community who is interested in strengthening their family is encouraged to attend. 6-8pm at Oroville YMCA.
JEI Essay Contest! Saturday, November 15th
Children in grades 2 to 7 will have an excellent opportunity to test their essay writing skills and to win an amazing prize. Contact JEI Learning Center for details 267-1300.
Opening Day for Paradise On Ice Outdoor Ice Skating Rink Saturday, November 15th
Held at Terry Ashe Park on the Skyway in Paradise. Open from November 15th - January 11th. Please see the ad in this issue for prices, hours, and contact info. Available for birthday parties too!
Girls on the Run-Butte County Graduation 5k Saturday, November 15th
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - Join nearly 300 girls from more than 20 local elementary and junior high schools in this celebratory 5K. Lower Bidwell Park (start/finish near Sycamore Ball Field). Go to www.gotrbuttecounty.org for more info.
www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com
The Senegal St. Joseph Gospel Choir Tuesday, November 18th
This inspiring West African choir lifts the hearts and spirits of all who hear their extraordinary voices. Founded in 1950, the Senegal St. Joseph Gospel Choir has become a symbol of peace, hope, humanity, and brotherhood in its homeland, creating harmony between the music of the Catholic and Islamic cultures in Senegal. The ensemble features the chorale and traditional Senegalese drummers in what is sure to be a stirring and beautiful performance. Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com for more info.
Christmas Preview Sunday, November 23rd
Downtown Chico officially kicks off the season in a tradition of holiday hospitality from 4-8pm. It’s the much-anticipated Christmas Preview! Merchants debut their holiday cheer by inviting the community to delight in an evening filled with the sights, sounds and anticipation of the holidays. www.downtownchico.com.
Thanksgiving Vacation Camp, Bricks 4 Kidz, Monday, November 24th - Wednesday, November 26th
“Mining and Crafting with LEGOS®” morning/afternoon sessions or all day can be arranged. 510 Walnut St. Chico. $95 register online at Bricks4kidz.com/california-chico.
39th Annual Orland Craft Fair Saturday, November 29th & Sunday, November 30th
Mark your calendars and attend the 39th Annual Orland Craft Fair at the Glenn County Fairgrounds in Orland. The hours are Saturday, 10am-5pm and 11am4pm on Sunday with FREE admission both days. Over 250 vendors will fill three buildings, offering their handcrafted items and products for sale. For additional information, contact coordinator, Olga Peterson, at 893-9218.
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Pet Nights with Santa Tuesday, December 2nd, 9th, and 16th
Have your pets photo taken with Santa at the Chico Mall. www.chicomall.com.
The Nutcracker - Chico Community Ballet Thursday, December 4th - Sunday, December 7th
This timeless holiday classic is beautifully brought to life by the Chico Community Ballet. Under the artistic direction of Deborah Jorritsma, the company and guest artists transport us to a magical place where toy soldiers battle mice, sugarplums come to life, and a prince and queen dance into our hearts. “The Nutcracker” is an enchanting tale for the entire family and a holiday tradition not to be missed. Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com for more info.
Full Moon Wellness Treatments for Kids Friday, December 5th
Chico Community Acupuncture. Ages newborn through 7 years old. $10 per kid. 345-5300, www.ChicoCommunityAcupuncture.com.
Patrick Ranch Museum’s 5th Annual Fine Arts and Gift Fundraiser Friday, December 5th - Sunday, December 7th
Come on out to the Patrick Ranch Museum and get your holiday shopping done. There is no admission or parking fee to this event. Friday, 4-8pm and Saturday and Sunday 10-5pm.
Great Expectations Childbirth Education Saturday, December 6th
This is a pregnancy and childbirth education workshop designed to support you through pregnancy and prepare you for childbirth. Meet other expectant parents, learn how to support a healthy pregnancy and prepare for a positive, informed, & supported birth experience. Participants will receive a pregnancy and birth guide with additional access to online education and video support. The intimate size of this workshop gives participants the opportunity to express and address their unique concerns and needs. Single mamas and couples welcome. Class size is limited to 10 participants. Registration required to guarantee a space in the class. Payment may be made now or at the first class, but please call or email to hold your space in the class. 10am-3pm. www.TheNestChico.com.
Snakes Alive Family Program Saturday, December 6th
This program will be held at The Chico Nature Center, 10am. Please call 891-4671 or go to www.bidwellpark.org.
The 4th Annual TRI-L Mandarin Harvest Festival Saturday, December 6th
Come enjoy holiday shopping from local craft artisans, Pick up your freshly picked mandarins and enjoy Hot Mandarin Cider. Fun and Food for all to enjoy. Call 534-4316 or go to www.mandarins4you.com for more details.
Lucero Olive Oil’s Fourth Annual Winter Crush Saturday, December 6th
Families, foodies and anyone looking to enjoy a unique experience is invited to join the Lucero family as they host the 4th Annual Winter Crush, from 10am to 4pm at the Lucero Olive Oil Mill in Corning. Go to www.lucerooliveoil.com for more info.
White Christmas - The Musical Saturday, December 6th – Sunday, December 21st
WHITE CHRISTMAS is a great holiday show and an audience favorite! An uplifting musical, WHITE CHRISTMAS is a great holiday show for the entire family to enjoy. Go to www.chicotheatercompany.com for more details.
The United States Air Force Band of the Golden West Thursday, December 11th
The professional airmen-musicians from the famed U.S. Air Force Band of the Golden West will provide Chico with a special holiday concert performance. From their home at Travis Air Force Base in California, the band travels and records in support of their mission to inspire our great Air Force and the nation it serves. Mark your calendars for this free concert event, celebrating the holidays and our freedom. Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com for more info.
Butte Parent Cafe-Chico Friday, December 12th
Parent Cafes are free public events that allow parents in Butte County to have meaningful, guided conversations to solve problems that may affect their children. Dinner and child care are provided at NO COST! Parents, Foster Parents, Grandparents, Providers, and anyone in the community who is interested in strengthening their family is encouraged to attend. 6-8pm at Chico Junior High.
Tree Lighting Friday, December 12th
Produced by the Downtown Chico Business Association and funded in part by the City of Chico, the Tree Lighting is a gift to the community. Crowds will enjoy a musical program and participate in the countdown to light the tree. Event program includes: Performances by Children’s Choir of Chico and Sounds of the Valley Chorus, a presentation by the Mayor, and a visit with Santa Claus! www.downtownchico.com.
Wild for Winter Preschool Program Saturday, December 13th
This program will be at The Chico Nature Center on December 13 at 11am. Please call 891-4671 or go to bidwellpark.org.
Mariachi Sol de MÉxico - Merri-achi Christmas Saturday, December 13th
Ring in the season with classic holiday songs and traditional mariachi favorites performed by fifth-generation maestro, Jóse Hernández’s famed Mariachi Sol de México. Jóse’s innovative approach breathes new life into the genre by fusing pop, jazz, and classical influences with the traditional mariachi. Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com for more info.
Believe - Inspired by the Polar Express Friday, December 13th - Sunday, December 21st
BELIEVE is a holiday family experience that takes you on a journey to the North Pole with music and dance! This show will ignite your senses, thrill your imagination and recall your faith...Believe! Go to www.BelieveChico.com or see the ad on the back cover of this issue for more info.
11th Annual Avenue of Lights Wednesday, December 17th - Sunday, December 21st
Join the holiday drive-thru extravaganza at the Glenn County Fairgrounds in Orland. It is a great family fun event for all ages, with more lights than you can imagine. The Avenue is a mile-long drive with dazzling, lighted outdoor displays, showing beautiful Christmas themes amid sparkling lights of all colors. After the drive thru, park the car and step inside the North Pole Lodge at the end of the route. Check out the snack bar with goodies including hot chocolate, coffee, cider and popcorn. Entry fee is $12, 5:30-9pm.
Day Off Camp, Bricks 4 Kidz Friday, December 19th
9am-12pm or 1-4pm, 510 Walnut St. Chico. $35 register online at Bricks4kidz.com/california-chico
Butte Parent Cafe-Oroville Friday, December 19th
Parent Cafes are free public events that allow parents in Butte County to have meaningful, guided conversations to solve problems that may affect their children. Dinner and child care are provided at NO COST! Parents, Foster Parents, Grandparents, Providers, and anyone in the community who is interested in strengthening their family is encouraged to attend. 6-8pm at Oroville YMCA.
The Nutcracker - Northern California Ballet Friday, December 19th - Sunday, December 21st
Held at the Paradise Performing Arts Center. Tickets On Sale at the Following Locations: NCB at 872-1719, www.northerncaliforniaballet.com, Jaki’s Hill Top Café – 873-1275, and PIP Printing – 877-7471. For more information call 872-1719.
Forever Evergreen Family Hike Saturday, December 20th
At The Chico Nature Center, 10am. Please call 891-4671 or go to www.bidwellpark.org.
Christmas Holiday Camp, Bricks 4 Kidz Monday, December 29th - Wednesday, December 31st
510 Walnut St. Chico. Morning/afternoon sessions or all day can be arranged. $95. Register online at Bricks4kidz.com/california-chico
January Full Moon Wellness Treatments for Kids Monday, January 5th
Chico Community Acupuncture. Ages newborn through 7 years old. $10 per kid. 345-5300, www.ChicoCommunityAcupuncture.com.
Day Off Camp, Bricks 4 Kidz Monday, January 19th 9am-12pm or 1-4pm 510 Walnut St. $35. Register online at Bricks4kidz.com/california-chico.
16th Annual Snow Goose Festival Wednesday, January 21st - Sunday, January 25th
Over 60 field trips & workshops, plus exciting activities for kids & families! “Gathering of Wings” Banquet with Keynote Speaker, Renowned Naturalist & Author SCOTT WEIDENSAUL. Online registration begins early December. For more info: 345-1865, www.snowgoosefestival.org.
North State Symphony: Music, By, For, and About Young People Friday, January 23rd
This concert will feature works composed by a young person, performed by a young person, and featuring themes and ideas that will thrill and motivate all young people who love music. Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com for more info.
Looking for Local Resources?
Please check out our website for a full listing of local, family friendly resources.
www.growingupchico.com
directories
P re s c h o ol & C hildc are Direc tory Center
Ages
Hours
Curriculum
Contact
Chico Country Day Preschool
3-6 years
8:30am-11:30am & 12:15pm - 3:15pm & 12:30pm-2:45pm
Chico Country Day Preschool offers small, individualized class sizes with low teacher-to-student ratio. They provide a safe, joyful environment that celebrates learning through multi-sensory hands-on activities. The program supports children in becoming lifelong learners who gain independence with a positive self image.
102 W 11th St. Chico, CA 95928 895-2650 ext. 116 www.chicocountryday.org/Programs-/ Preschool
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Chico Montessori Children’s House
2.9-5 years
8:30am-5:30pm Monday-Friday
814 Glenn St. Chico, CA 95928 342-5518 www.chicomontessori.com
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Creative Outlets In-Home Preschool
2-6 years
8:30am-1:30pm Monday-Thursday
The goal of the Montessori approach is to help the child acquire the confidence and motivation he or she needs to fulfill his or her best potential. This is done by providing an environment with activities that fit the child’s individual needs, builds his/her interests, and nurtures his/her enthusiasm.
Creative Outlets offers a true preschool experience with the benefits of a loving, in-home setting. The owner has 20 years of experience and a degree in child development. The program focuses on teaching kinder readiness and is tailored to the needs of each student. It incorporates Math, Science & Pre-Reading utilizing Zoo Phonics, cooking & gardening. Children learn through play, music & art, while providing a safe & exciting place to learn & grow. Exploration/personal growth on an individual basis is encouraged. Nutritional snack & lunch is provided.
892-8069 funnyfaces@digitalpath.net www.facebook.com/creativeoutlets
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Dragonfly Playschool
2.5-5 years
8am-12noon Monday-Friday
Dragonfly Playschool is an enriching play-centered program. It is designed to meet the expanding needs of young children in an intimate home-based setting. Curriculum is designed to encourage children to be independent, creative, constructive and cooperative. ECO-Healthy Certified, Organic meals and seasonal inspired lessons are created by a credentialed teacher.
864-5916 www.dragonflyplayschool.com
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Kids Park
2-12 years
Drop in childcare, affordable hourly rates. The preschool curriculum is offered from 9:00am-11:30am. The 4 and 5 year old class is held on Monday/Wednesday/Friday and The 2 and 3 year old class is held on Tuesday/Thursday.
2477 Forest Ave. Chico, CA 94928 894-6800 www.kidspark.com
La Casita Primera Preschool
2.9-5 years
M-Th: 8am-10pm, Fri: 8am12midnight, Sat: 10am-12am, Sun:1pm-6pm
Little Sprouts Preschool
2-5 years
7am-6pm Monday-Friday
La Casita Primera is a Preschool Program offering: Pre-K readiness, organic nutrition, bilingual enrichment, play, teacher and student directed activities, multi-age groups, gardening, art emphasis, and discovery with 1:6 teacher child ratios. Little Sprouts Preschool offers: ECO Green, organic gardening, and recycling. The Kindergarten readiness program has Zoo Phonics, Into to Spanish, French & Sign Language, Daily circle time and enrichment activities. Nutritious snacks and lunch included.
2035 Esplanade 343-3044 lacasitaprimera@att.net, http://www.lacasitaprimera.com/
D L A S Y
15 Overland Ct. Chico, CA 95928 345-0123 littlesproutspreschool1@gmail.com
D L Y S
Parkside Daycare
0-9 years
6am-6pm Monday-Friday
1885 E. 8th St. Chico, CA 95928 893-5122 www.parksidedaycare.com
D L A S
Wood Family Farm
3-8 years
8:30am-5:30pm Monday-Friday
Come Discover with Parkside Daycare! They offer 4 preschool classes, including a “Junior Kindergarten.” Daily enrichment classes include: creative movement, Spanish, cooking, gardening, park walks (Bidwell Park is at our doorstep), and award winning Kindermusik and Zoo Phonics programs. Limited space for fall enrollment. CALL TODAY!
343-7120 www.WoodFamilyFarm.net
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License # 045404389
License # 045406630
www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com
License # 045405971
License # 045405821
License # 045404701, 045404702
License # 045406027
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License # 045405784
License # 045405614
License# 045406227
8:30am-11:30am & 1:00pm-4:00pm
Hooray, let’s PLAY! Wood Family Farm is committed to offering classic, early childhood education in an alternative play-based format. They inspire learning through their Nature-based, tactile, interactive curriculum. They have a large organic garden, barn with animals and more! Wood Family Farm is a place to grow!
D-Diapers L-Lunch P-Parent participation T-Traditional school year A-After-school program S-Summer program Y-Year round program
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Growing Up Chico’s Business Directory Ampla Health: Apple Blossom Baby: Believe: Bricks 4 Kidz: Butte Humane Society: Chico Community Acupuncture: Chico Country Day School: Chico Creek Dance Centre: Chico Dojo: Chico Doula Circle: Chico Montessori Children’s House: Chico Mothers’ Club: Chico Pediatric Dentistry: Chico Performances: Creative Outlets Preschool: Dignity Health, St. Elizabeth’s Community Hospital: Downtown Chico Business Association: Family Eye Care Optometry: Feather River Hospital: Funland Chico: Funny Faces Chico: Gateway Science Museum: Growing Up Chico Marketing: Hypno Birthing: In Motion Fitness: JEI Learning Center: Kids In Motion (In Motion Fitness):
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Kids Park: Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary: La Casita Primera Preschool: Little Sprouts Preschool: Mountain View Christmas Tree Farm: Paradise On Ice: Parkside Daycare: PTL Pediatric Day Health Center: Rejuvene: Round Table Pizza: Snow Goose Festival: Sue Sue’s: Sunny Garden Montessori: Sweet Repeats Chico: Sweetwater: Terry Basile, MFT: The Creative Apple: The Nest: The Nutcracker: The Studio: Thrive Learning Center: Tolar AVL: Touch of Glass: Valley Oak Children’s Services: Watersprites Swim School: Wood Family Farm Preschool: Youthful Smiles Dentistry:
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