January 2013 by DMI Agency

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RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

EDITOR’S LETTER

Happy New Year

t’s a new year – the perfect time to refresh our thoughts and attitudes about successful parenting. Chances are everyone is quite happy to be past the “season of overindulgence.” But sometimes, it’s hard for kids to get back into the school routine and it can take a few days to get everyone back on schedule.

One of the most proactive steps parents can take in a child’s education is to be personally involved on a daily basis. Education experts from Children's Services Network, gives some practical advice in “Helping Your Child Succeed in School” on page 12. Children learn to model behavior by watching adults, and having parents actively involved in their education sets a strong foundation for success. While we should all agree on how important education is in determining future success, helping children succeed in personal or family relationships is also vital. Everyone makes mistakes, hurts the feelings of others or otherwise does something requiring an apology. How many times have we instructed our kids to say “sorry,” when they really didn’t feel sorry or didn’t understand why an apology was necessary? In his article, “So Sorry,” child psychologist Barry Sommer explains how a sincere apology opens the door to reconciliation. Emotional intelligence creates stronger relationships and a better world overall. Even with our best efforts, once in a while parents need help or support in dealing with a difficult situation or stressful time. Family Resource Centers provide a wide range of services based on a family’s unique needs. For more information about empowering your family, be sure to read starting on page 10. As we go to press we cannot sign off without mentioning our broken hearts for the victims, families and community of Newtown, Connecticut, and extend our deepest condolences. At this time there are still so many unanswered questions; some answers we may never have. And that’s pretty frustrating. But if we could wrap our arms around those parents, spouses, friends and loved ones and make it all go away, we would certainly do so. May 2013 bring healing and peace to a community so desperately in need of both.

Karen Tellalian, EXECUTIVE EDITOR For more information or to submit a story idea, email Karen@dmiagency.com or call (559) 739-1747 or fax (559) 738-0909.

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

Behavior

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"So Sorry" Teaching Apologies

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PUBLISHED BY DMI Agency 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 EDITORIAL Executive Editor Karen Tellalian Assistant Editor TAYLOR VAUGHN Content Editor Kyndal Kennedy ART & PRODUCTION Art Director ROSS Yukawa

in this issue

Graphic Designer CHRIS BLY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS barry sommer billie shawl

Humor

Accidents

17 Dental Health

Jesus & Adriana Gonzalez

21 Happy Trails

10 Child Welfare

20 Adventures

24 Calendar

Family Resource Center

12 Positive Parenting

26 Safety

27 Resources

Helping Your Child Succeed in School

Egg Carton Gardening

Do High School Grades Really Matter?

23 Health

Childhood Obesity

Raise Magazine is distributed in Visalia, Exeter, Woodlake and Tulare. If you would like copies available at your business, call 559.739.1747 Raise Magazine is published 12 times a year and distributed at hightraffic locations in the South Valley av rea. For a list of locations, call the DMI Agency office. Views expressed in columns are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of DMI Agency or its advertisers. © 2013 DMI Agency

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Malkasian Accountancy LLP Gary Malkasian CPA JEFFREY Malkasian EA

SALES OFFICE 801 W. Main St. Visalia, CA 93291 559.739.1747 • Fax 559.738.0909

Beans, Beans … The Magical Fruit

22 College Prep

Susan Schieferle

Parental Resiliency

18 Nutrition

mariya Grigoryan

ADVERTISING SALES Advertising Director Bridget Elmore

16 Family Focus

John Reifenberg Justin & Rebecca Reynolds

Operations Manager Maria Gaston

14 Gardening

Crystal R. R. Edwards

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

VIEW THE MAG ONLINE! issuu.com/raisemagazine

Facebook.com/RaiseMagazine

Cover Photo: Joel Wood, 4, of Visalia.

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

HUMOR

Accidents Text by Crystal R. R. Edwards

didn’t intentionally set out to have children. In fact, I didn’t intentionally set out to do anything in particular except sing on a stage. After eight years studying opera and performing, I realized I’m more of a behind-thescenes person and not particularly competitive (two pretty significant drawbacks in the cutthroat world of “me-me-me” performing arts). I switched to linguistics so I could talk to gorillas and write computer programs which would talk to gorillas. Quiet, orderly, not particularly competitive, and I got free Dr. Pepper from the vending machine in the lab.

I was required to take three natural languages – the Italian, French and German diction classes I’d taken for opera didn’t count and I wasn’t allowed to try them again – so I signed up for one I had heard in my early childhood: Scots Gaelic. On the first day I met some classmates and we began hanging out because, let’s face it, we were the only eight people on a campus of thousands crazy enough to take a twice-weekly night class in a dying language. We obviously weren’t going to fit into any normal social group. Then I accidentally fell in love with one of those friends and got derailed again. Oopsie. Donald, whom I generally refer to as Big Boss Man because he’s, well, not, is laid back to the point of being Buddha. For every screaming mimi fit I throw, for every snot-bubble sobbing meltdown, he’s there to calmly take the hammer away from me or hand me yet another Kleenex. He’s a computer guru of some type, messing with huge numbers of security issues and even huger numbers of code bugs. I’m semi-technical, but not on the same scale as he and there are times he will need to vent about work and I mentally wander away to pick daisies and consider the Weirdness of Things for my next article. We’re a pretty good match. He gets it out of his system and I get a few moments uninterrupted by children.

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

When we met, he was 19 and I was 24. My friends, learning his age, gasped and acted shocked: “Crystal!” Clearly, I was a cradle-robbing cougar. His friends, learning my age, chuckled and elbowed one another: “Doooooooon!” Clearly, I was still a cradlerobbing cougar. I gave up school and we merged our lives and things proceeded nicely during our courtship. I was happy that my accidentally falling in love had turned out so well. Four years later, after what was perhaps the most romantic proposal ever (we were walking through a mall and he jerked his head at a jeweler’s and asked “Ya wanna?”), we married in my parents’ backyard in the middle of the country near Dayton, Ohio. We were pregnant by the end of the honeymoon (my first sentence was “$@#%!”; his was “Oh, okay.”) and parents just less than a year later (my first sentence was, “You are so grounded!” as I fainted; his was, “Look, fingers!”) The first year of parenthood woke me up to some harsh truths: • My hips have a mind of their own, and it’s apparently an everexpanding one. Also, my belly is a copycat. • Being cool and trendy takes a lot of time that I no longer have, and I wasn’t all that good at it to begin with. • Introverts have no business being models of good social behavior to small children.

HUMOR

I don’t like having my life dictated by anyone, let alone by small people who speak in a register so ear-piercingly high that local dogs howl and fax machines start spitting out blank pages. I want to just meander through the day, writing when I feel like it, reading when I feel like it, and eating popcorn for breakfast. Yet here I am, rolling out of bed in the mornings after the sounding of my first alarm clock (Tapper), my second alarm clock (one of the cats panicking because all three kids are now up), and my third alarm clock (which is set 15 minutes early and which has a snooze button I use at least three times). Here I am sitting in forever-long pick-up lines at the school, watching the Juicy Moms – the women half-clothed in tank tops and shorts with the word “JUICY” written across the bottom – sashay back and forth to friends’ cars like it’s some kind of sorority mingler instead of the same stupid line in the same stupid place for the same stupid hour with the same stupid people. Here I am staring at a pile of sticker backs and cracker crumbs and dirty socks, all of which have managed to spread themselves across my office desk. And yet ... here I am, writing about them. Here I am chuckling when I imagine what the kids will think of “How Mommy Met Daddy” stories. Here I am hoping they’ll stop growing up quite so quickly. Tapper is three and it was only last week I realized that, for the first time in about nine years, I no longer have a baby in the house. That same day I saw a baby at an elementary school event and heard the unbelievably faint ticking of a very small alarm clock that has no snooze button.

Oh, I’m done having them now. But I’m glad that, for the second time in my life, I accidentally fell in love and all my intentions for my own life fell by the wayside in pursuit of something, well, better. These later years of parenthood have woken me up to some new truths: • If you can still hug your kids, it doesn’t matter how big your hips are. Also, that belly is a sort of Medal of Honor. • Being cool and trendy takes a lot of focus away from the things I should be focused on, and I wouldn’t be any better at it now than I was way back when. • Introverts have special skills meant expressly for the teaching of young children. We can play pretend all day and never get bored, and there’s nothing like a lazy day in front of a good movie with a bowl of popcorn for breakfast and a couple of fat, still-nearly-panicking-but-mostly-just-sleepy-now cats dozing on our laps. • When my kids spill something and they tell me, “It was an accident!” I have a decision to make. I can either lose my cool and make them believe accidents are bad, or I can channel my husband Donald, himself the Big Accident of my life, and hand them a paper towel with a smile. Buddha had kind of a round belly too, didn’t he?

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

BEHAVIOR

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

BEHAVIOR

"SO Teaching SORRY" Apologies Text by Barry Sommer, LEP, MFT

ffering apologies and seeking forgiveness are essential foundations for successful relationships. Genuine apology opens the door to the possibility of forgiveness and reconciliation. Everyone makes mistakes; that’s life. When everyone apologizes, that makes life better. Children who have confidence in their peacemaking skills to seek apologies and ask forgiving are learning a valuable life lesson and building their emotional intelligence. In a perfect world, there would be no need for apologies. But because the world is imperfect, we cannot survive without them. Apologizing helps your child to accept responsibility for a wrong and provides a tool to make things right again. It helps the child dig himself out of a hole. It clears the air, helps heal relationships, and helps people move forward. To teach your child – and yourself – the art of apologizing, consider these tips. Model apologizing. When you’ve acted wrongly, admit it. Apologize when you overreact: “I’m sorry I yelled at you. You didn’t deserve that outburst.” Saying “sorry” to your child is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. A child who has never been apologized to won’t understand the apology process, and more than likely he’ll refuse to apologize when needed, turning a potentially beneficial moment into a standoff with hurt feelings. Start young. Toddlers quickly learn to give a hug to “make it better” when they hurt someone. If you model hugs for hurts at home, he’ll know just what to do. Once he’s calm and ready to hug, you can verbalize a simple apology. Make it complete. Include all the components of an effective apology. A complete apology includes an expression of regret, acceptance of responsibility, an effort at repairing damages or making restitution, a promise to be better, and a seeking of forgiveness. • Expressing Regret: “I am sorry.” “I wish I had been more careful.” • Accepting Responsibility: “I was wrong.” “I didn’t mean to break your toy.” “I was being careless.” • Making Restitution or Amends: “What can I do to make it right?” “I’ll replace your toy and next time, I’ll play in a gentle way.” • Genuinely Repenting: “I’ll avoid doing that again.” “Next time I’ll be more thoughtful.” • Requesting Forgiveness: “Will you please forgive me?” “I hope you’ll accept my apology.”

Make it timely. Family life can be busy; however, putting off an apology can cause stress and elevate hurt feelings. The sooner an apology is made, the more effective it is in restoring balance to the relationship. Forcing feelings, however, can teach your child to fake apologies, that it’s okay to be insincere, or that forgiveness has to be an instant thing which is not real life. Depending on the ages of the children, their temperaments, the circumstances, and the emotions that may be flaring, a cooling-off period before an apology will be needed. A two-year-old who just kicked his sister may need a twominute time-out on a chair, along with a reminder that kicking hurts, before he’s ready to hug her. Family members – spouses, siblings, parents and children – who apologize to each other create a foundation of trust, safety and the ability to clean up wrongdoings. A genuine apology can undo harm, it can raise awareness that will help to avoid or deal with future conflicts. If parents learn to apologize to each other, to their children, and to others, then children will also learn how to speak the languages of apology. If we could have a widespread renewal of the practice of apologizing, imagine the impact it would have on our culture. Being adept at apologizing can bring the benefits that come with emotional intelligence – stronger relationships, reduced conflict, inner peace, and forgiveness – it’s well worth the effort! When people are at peace with each other they feel better inside.

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

CHILD WELFARE

Family Resource Centers

amily Resource Centers provide just what their name implies: resources for families. There are times when a family needs guidance and support to get over a hurdle or through a difficult time. And there are other times when families just need information and resources that will support the health, safety, and well-being of family members.

Family Resource Centers provide multiple services to families, based on each family’s unique needs. A Family Resource Center is a one-stop shop, giving families access to services related to nutrition, health, education, housing, utility assistance, and employment training. The FRC can refer families to these services and follow up to ensure those services are provided. The main services that Tulare County Family Resource Centers (FRCs) provide are: family advocacy, parenting education, help with filling out forms, counseling, resources and referrals, family health and wellness, home visitation, and child development services. Family Resource Centers are just like families. They have much in common but also have their own distinct characteristics. All FRCs share the belief that services to families are best delivered locally and in a comfortable, inviting, and homelike environment. They also share the belief that services are best provided by trusted staff who reflect the cultures of the local community, have a comprehensive knowledge of family support resources in their communities, and are committed to supporting the families in their communities. What's the Tulare County Family Resource Center Network? The Tulare County Family Resource Center Network and its member centers provide a comprehensive and proven approach to improving self-sufficiency for entire families, not just individuals. The centers are community-based, family-strengthening centers that offer programs for all of Tulare County. There are six centers in the Tulare County Family Resource Centers Network, and all are committed to developing the integrity of families within the context of their beliefs, values, customs, and culture. Services are aimed at empowerment, not dependence. Programs stress prevention, independence, and self-sufficiency as families define and fulfill their own aspirations. Each FRC in the Tulare County Family Resource Center Network has established partnerships and referral processes with local agencies, food pantries, and the faith-based community to be able to provide assistance quickly and smoothly. Services provided are based on extensive needs assessments tailored to capture the individual family history and to plan for sustainability. What's Available at the Family Resource Centers? Parenting Education: Parenting classes are offered in English and in Spanish. The program teaches problem-solving skills and effective communication techniques. Participants will learn how to handle family stress, set goals, and build positive relationships. On-going Support: Staff at the FRCs provide on-going support and case management services. Staff are available to help individuals and families with budgeting, goal setting, and problem solving. They can help you to obtain services through advocacy and collaboration with other community agencies. They are also available when you just need to talk to someone about problems or issues in your life.

Text by Child Welfare Services

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

Resources/Referrals: In addition to providing direct services, all of the FRCs offer resource and referral services. Individuals may call the FRC for individual needs or assistance in locating resources in the community. Staff are available to assist families in identifying needs and help them obtain the resources to meet those needs. Who Can Get Help: Family Resource Centers serve anyone who lives in the local community. There are no income qualifications to use the FRC, although some services may be limited to income guidelines. FRCs serve children, teens, parents, single adults, and senior citizens. Resources Include: • Health • Insurance Enrollment • Free Mobile Immunization Clinic • Counseling • Individual, Family, and Group • Parent-Child Interaction Therapy • Domestic Violence • Sexual Abuse • Substance Abuse • Perinatal Wellness Program • Early Childhood Mental Health Services • Adult Mental Health • Assistance in Filling out Forms • Restraining Orders • Divorce • Paternity Establishment • Child Support • Child Custody and Visitation • Domestic Violence

• Civil Harassment • Guardianship and Conservatorship • Free Income Tax Preparation • Social Security • Parent Education Support/ Family Support • Nurturing Parenting Group (Spanish) • Parenting Wisely (In-Home) • Displaced Family Support • Referrals for Housing/Utility Needs • Interpreting Services • Bi-Annual Clothes Giveaway • Community Recreation Program • Employment Resources • Welfare-to-Work • Job Leads • Interview Skills • Resume Creation

Family Resource Centers in Tulare County Earlimart: 114 N. Front St., 93219...................................(661) 849-2960 Lindsay: 475 E. Honolulu St., 93247...............................(559) 562-8292 Tulare: 115 E. Tulare Ave., 93274.....................................(559) 684-1987 Visalia: 1900 N. Dinuba Blvd., 93277.............................(559) 625-0384 Woodlake: 168 N. Valencia Blvd., 93286........................(559) 564-5212 Cutler-Orosi: Family Education Center 40802 Road 128, 93647....................................................(559) 528-1790

CHILD WELFARE

623-0581 Children of all ages throughout Tulare County need safe place as they go through a difficult time in their lives.

Are you ready to be their shelter in a storm? Tulare County Foster Care Licensing offers: • Ongoing training • Support and mentors • Networking

Attend one of our orientations Thursday, November 1, 2012* Thursday, November 15, 2012* Thursday, December 6, 2012*

*Call

623-0581 to RSVP

We will hold your big hands as you connect with little ones.

An Independent Practice Association providing

excellence in mental and behavioral health care delivery in Central California Kristin Sorensen Alldredge, LMFT

Melinda L. Mauro, LCSW

Ross M. Becker, PhD, LCSW

Mary K. McDonald, PhD

Frances E. Becker, LCSW Paul C. Bennett, LCSW

Mike Mayo, LCSW Lisa A. Miller, PhD

Sandra T. Bennett, LCSW

Lori Pasion-Gonzales, PhD

Linda Del Rio, LMFT

Diane B. Post, LCSW

Lynn W. Gonzales, LCSW

David G. Richards, LCSW

Sue Enterline, LCSW

Colleen Richards, LCSW

Jacquelyn Harris-Groeber, PhD Kent Henry, LMFT

John A. Mauro, LCSW

Frony Ritter, LMFT

Michael H. Shaffer, LCSW, LMFT Barry Sommer, LEP, LMFT

1212 W. Main Street Visalia, CA 93291 559-738-0644

www.thehelixgroup.org RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

POSITIVE PARENTING

Helping Your Child

Succeed in School Text by Child Services Network of Tulare County

ost parents know the importance of being involved in their children’s lives, and they also understand the importance of giving them a good education. But not every parent realizes how important it is to be personally involved in their child’s education. Actually, parents are considered a child’s first and most important teachers; our attitudes toward school and learning can have a profound effect on a child’s ability to get the most out of his or her educational opportunities. Showing our kids that we value education and that we use it in our daily lives will help form a foundation for academic success, upon which a child can begin to build his or her own appreciation for the lifelong learning process. Here are a few tips to help you reinforce your child’s efforts: Start at home. From the time your children are aware of their surroundings and able to observe you, you are their teacher. They absorb many of your habits and perspectives, and they are constantly learning from you – whether they know it or not – so it is important that your behaviors reflect a positive attitude about learning. If you didn’t enjoy school or you weren’t the best student, make an effort not to let your past experiences influence the way your child regards schooling. Just showing interest can make a big impression. Make it a habit to ask your child every day, “How was school?” and encourage him or her to provide details. Homework is a big part of your children’s education. It’s important that they are completing their homework on time and to the best of their abilities. Encourage good study habits and, when possible, take the time to go over your kids’ homework with them, helping as needed. Schedule a designated time each afternoon or evening for doing homework. If your child is older and is taking classes beyond your knowledge level, ask your child to explain the lesson to you. This is a good way to double check their homework, as well as for you to make sure it’s completed. You might end up learning something new, too! Support your child’s teacher and school. Keeping in touch with your child’s teacher is always helpful. Whether via email or the occasional phone call, this contact will provide insight into your child’s performance in the classroom, both academically and socially. This additional perspective can help you determine areas where you may need to focus to best help your child improve. Get to know your

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

children’s teachers and school counselors. Attend those open houses and parent-teacher conferences, and volunteer whenever possible. Your involvement with your children’s school can help them feel comfortable and confident there, and it fosters the reassuring feeling that education is a family affair. Avoid the pressure pitfall. Encourage your children to do their best – not to be perfect. Not everyone has the capacity to make straight A’s. Applying pressure to get A’s on every assignment and test can have detrimental effects, resulting only in stress and discouragement. As long as your children put sincere effort into their schoolwork, they (and you) should be proud of what they achieve in school. Being actively involved in your children’s schooling can mean the difference between their developing a sincere endeavor to do well and doing just enough to get by. Your interest in their education can also lead children to greater enthusiasm and enjoyment of the learning process and its rewards. So, whether your children are in kindergarten or high school, it is not too late to get involved in their schooling and help them succeed. School is where children learn the fundamentals upon which to build a fulfilling life – in combination with the values and attitudes learned at home. In the words of President Barack Obama, “We can’t tell our kids to do well in school and then fail to support them when they get home. You can’t just contract out parenting. For our kids to excel, we have to accept our responsibility to help them learn.” Do your part to ensure that they get the most out of their educational opportunities.

POSITIVE PARENTING

AT T E N T I O N

TULARE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHERS

Raise Magazine is looking for cover photo submissions.

What kind of photos?

• Children (ages 5-15), or children with pet • Single children only; no group or family photos • Vertical format Please submit high-quality, electronic files only. Email photos to Bridget@dmiagency.com (Photos are free to submit but submission does not guarantee placement.)

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

GARDENING

EGG CARTON 14

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

GARDENING

anuary is usually a cold, foggy month in our Valley. Planting an early spring garden can begin this month by starting certain cool season seeds in the ground or in a greenhouse. Think of your child’s excitement while watching seeds germinate in his/her own mini greenhouse! We will create a very simple egg carton greenhouse. There is a “little surprise” at the end. Here is what you will need 1. A corrugated (not plastic Styrofoam) egg carton (with either 12 or 18 “egg cups”) 2. Potting soil 3. A two-gallon zippered plastic bag 4. Spray bottle of water 5. Cool season seeds of your choice such as: cabbage, carrots, green onions, lettuce, garden peas, radishes, spinach, and turnips. (I used carrots and spinach to make a yummy salad) 6. A new pencil (unsharpened) with 1/8-, 1/4-, and 1/2-inch markings December Review: The succulents in your mini-terrarium globe should be slowly growing. You can change the ribbon colors to match the seasons of the year. January Gardening Tip: This is the month to prune roses and to plant new bare root roses and fruit trees. Ready your vegetable garden bed for planting in February or March by adding manure or compost and tilling or mixing it into the soil.

Getting Started: First, the adult (or supervised child) should cut off the lid of the egg carton. You could use it for stability or as a drainage tray. Punch a hole in the bottom of the egg cups for water drainage. Second, have your child fill each egg cup with potting or seed starting soil, gently patting down the soil in each egg cup. Third, using a spray bottle, spray each egg cup so the soil is moist (not saturated) before planting your seeds. (Watering this small space with a watering can usually drenches the soil.) Fourth, have your child read the back of the seed packet to find out how deep to plant the seeds. Using the marked pencil, make a hole for the depth of the seed. Drop the seed in and gently cover with soil. Fifth, using the spray bottle, spray the inside of each zipped plastic bag with enough water to moisten. Lastly, place the egg carton into the plastic bag and zip shut. Explain that this bag will act like a greenhouse, keeping the seeds warm enough to germinate. Place the bag in a warm, sunny place inside the house. Check daily to see if the egg cups need a spray of water. Check the germination time on the back of the package to chart the approximate sprouting time. When the sprouts are about one-half inch tall, remove the carton from the bag. Keep a drainage pan under the egg carton. After a couple more weeks, your child may plant the seedlings in your garden area. The “little surprise” is this: Have an adult carefully cut and separate the individual egg cups. The ENTIRE egg cup may be planted directly into the outdoor garden soil, making sure the carton edges are buried. This way the tiny roots are not disturbed!

Wood Industries will provide a FREE gallon bag of garden soil to any child who stops in to start a garden project! 7715 Ave. 296, Visalia | 559.625.9426

Text by Susan Schieferle, Master Gardener, University of California Cooperative Extension

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

FAMILY FOCUS

Protective Factor #1

Parental Resiliency Text by Billie Shawl, executive director of CAPC

n a scale of one to 10, with 10 being the highest, how resilient are you?

The U.S. Center for the Study of Social Policy, looking at numerous studies, found that parental resilience is an important protective factor that buffers the likelihood of child abuse and neglect. While resilience is not a characteristic that is discussed, it turns out to be an important attribute that strengthens all families, especially those at risk. Resiliency is the ability to bounce back from setbacks or negative situations. Disappointments and challenges are part of life and it is essential that we develop the ability to deal with them. We often assume that this ability is something we are born with, or not. Some people seem to deal well with obstacles, whatever they may be. They view difficulty as a puzzle to be solved, a challenge to overcome. They are willing to keep looking for what works. If we are not one of those people, we envy and admire the resilience of those who are. If you are one of those people, how did you become resilient? Were you born that way? Did someone teach you? Or did you learn from your own experiences? We all know people who deal with setbacks and problems by blaming others, complaining, demanding that someone “fix it,” resorting to self-defeating behaviors like drug and alcohol addiction, or by becoming depressed and giving up. If you were to select between these two responses, the correct choice would be obvious. But people often don’t realize they have a choice. They may not know how or what to do to change the way they react. We can learn to be more resilient. It is possible to learn to bounce back faster and easier, with more effective problem-solving skills. If we are not naturally resilient, we can learn to become like people who are. We have all heard stories of people who have learned and grown in their emotional maturity and developed a sense of their personal power to deal with whatever comes their way. This change often comes through the experience of a serious illness or accident. Knowing that people can change, we know that the “bounce-back” muscle can grow stronger. In addition to the personal benefit, we become models of resilience for our children. Resilient parents can better care for their children in times of stress. Defeated or depressed parents, and those who self-medicate with drugs, are unable to give their children a nurturing, safe environment.

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

How can we raise our resilience number to 10 or help someone else do so? Here are some suggestions that can help.  Set a conscious goal to become more resilient. Decide that you will develop a high level of “bounce-back” and effective problem solving. Having a long-term goal of any kind helps put obstacles in perspective and provides the incentive to move through them.  Take stock of your life experiences. Note or list all the things that you have survived. We may tend to discount past success in dealing with challenges, thinking that this next one is different. While the situations may be different, the approach to handling the crisis can be the same. We can remind ourselves of our past ability to cope, to solve problems, or to get through difficulties. These reminders strengthen our confidence that we can respond to the current situation faster and easier.  Don’t jump to conclusions, project negative outcomes or listen to self-deprecating internal conversations. Our internal dialogue can resort to inner voices that tell us how bad we are, what we should have done, what we deserve, etc. Those voices are from our past and are not helpful. Find someone who can be a source of encouragement. Listen to positive words of encouragement, either your own or from an outside source. Crisis and challenging situations are the times to be patient with yourself. Acknowledge the feelings without judging them. Know that those feelings need not be permanent ones, and that they can change.  Seek help, a listening ear and concrete answers that lead to solutions. Help and direction can come from a personal relationship or a professional, from books and other sources. Gather whatever resources are needed and make the best choices for a positive outcome.  Take action to address the situation. In some cases, this action may be a decision to do nothing but let go of the way you would like things to be and accept things as they are. There is a time when the only thing to do is to trust things to work out. People who have faith often have more resilience.  Feel and express gratitude. Once on the other side of crisis or challenging situations, feel and express gratitude for getting through it. Express gratitude to anyone who helped you and to yourself. Acknowledge what lessons may be learned from the situation and make whatever changes you need to make to prevent the situation from reoccurring, if possible. Doing this will give you power and keep you from having to have the same experiences over and over. Being a parent requires resilience. Your children are watching you and you are their role model. While you teach resilience to your children, you will become more resilient yourself. Be a rubber band!

DENTAL HEALTH

Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Text by Mariya Grigoryan, D.M.D.

left lip and palate are facial and oral malformations (a fissure or opening) that occur very early in pregnancy while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. It is a relatively common defect; approximately one in 700 children are born with a cleft lip or palate. Clefting can occur on both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. A cleft lip or palate is easy to diagnose; prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in a unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby’s birth, a physical exam after birth confirms the presence of the clefting. Genetic factors contributing to cleft lip and cleft palate formation have been identified for some syndromic cases, but knowledge about

genetic factors that contribute to the more common isolation cases are still patchy. Many clefts run in the family. Environmental influences may also cause or interact with genetics to produce orofacial clefting. Other congenital abnormalities and cleft lip palate have been link to maternal smoking, alcohol abuse, or maternal hypertension treatments. Various environmental factored that could cause clefting are pesticide exposures, maternal diet, anticonvulsant drugs, nitrate compounds, parental exposures to lead, and illegal drugs. Treatment procedures can vary between craniofacial teams. Some teams wait on jaw correction until the child is 10 to 12 years, while others teams correct the jaw earlier. Within teams, treatment can differ between individual cases depending on the type and severity of the cleft. Cleft lip surgery can be preformed soon after birth. Children with cleft palate usually have variety of speech problems. Hearing impairment is also prevalent with these cases.

Gentle, Caring Touch Dentistry At the office of Dr. Mariya Grigoryan your child's smile is our priority. We offer comprehensive care for the whole family.

• Periodontal Care • Laser Treatments • Restorative Work • Orthodontics • Teeth Whitening • Implants THE OFFICE OF

Dr. Mariya Grigoryan, D.M.D. 2634 W. Walnut Ave. Visalia CA 93277 p 559.732.7224

The Grigoryan family Simon, Mariya, Hyke and Gary

Boston Graduate School of Dentistry, Certificate for Orthodontic Treatment Certificate for Oral Conscience Sedation, Fellowship Recognition for Implant Placement Member American Dental Implant Association, Certificate for San Francisco Implant Placement

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

NUTRITION

Beans, Beans ... the

Magical Fruit Text by Rebecca Reynolds, Local Business Owners

he more you eat, the more you … lose weight? Lower your risk of heart disease? Become healthier? Yes, yes,

and yes!

With the New Year here, many of us are looking for ways to lose weight and eat better in order to reach the physical goals we have set for the year. Finding easy ways to change our family's diets and making those changes permanent is a huge step in reaching a nutritious and healthy lifestyle. So, what change can we make that would be delicious, easy, and affordable? The answer is simple – beans! Beans are super healthy, super affordable and super easy to work into any meal. They are high in antioxidants, fiber, protein, B vitamins, calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, copper and zinc. Beans are hearty and help with weight management because they help you feel fuller longer and faster, so you will eat less at each sitting. Beans are the number one rated food group in regards to the glycemic index. They are the lowest glycemic food, which means they release their sugars more slowly and steadily, acting as a constant source of energy. With childhood obesity statistics on the rise, finding foods that help them 18

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

stay fuller quicker and longer, and also give them energy until the next meal, is a huge positive. Beans are only 2-3 percent fat per serving, which means they raise our childrens leptin levels (hormone that tells the body it’s full) and reduce appetite, while causing the metabolism to work harder and faster. Beans are a great alternative to high-fat protein sources like red meat. A half-cup of beans has only about 100 calories. Beans can help reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, colorectal cancer, and coronary heart disease. Eating them regularly as substitutions for fattier foods will also help with weight loss. You will still be feeding the body the protein it needs, without the additional fats. Beans help regulate the digestive system with the healthy fiber in them. There is approximately 15 grams of fiber per cup of beans, which is more than a fourth of your daily intake (40 grams daily is average) and kids love to eat them because they are delicious! Look into the wide variety and assortment of beans – multiple options are available in your local supermarket. On average, you can purchase a pound of beans for around $1.29-$1.36. That will make multiple meals for a large family. So many things we love have beans in them – experiment! Try adding a cup here and there, or use them as a side instead of a pasta salad or other high calorie/carb side. These little daily substitutions will make a world of difference in your family's lifestyle. Have a great new year and enjoy making healthy meals in the kitchen!

NUTRITION

Don’t know how to implement them into your families diet? Let me wow! you with these ideas:    



Add beans to soups, salads, chili, pasta or use them as a side dish. Peanuts are a legume/bean, and so are cranberries. Delicious bean dips are fun for sides at the dinner table – try hummus or seven-layer bean dip. Make baked beans, bean breads and bean desserts (this is for a more extreme approach to implementing them in your diet). Substitute beans in enchiladas, lasagna or most things you use lean ground beef for. Four ounces of lean ground beef has 306 calories, 20 grams fat, 23 grams protein and 0 grams fiber. In comparison, having

a double helping of black beans (eight ounces), is 227 calories, .09 grams fat, 17.9 grams protein and 15 grams fiber.  Want an even easier approach? Buy chili beans or Ranch beans and mix them with a can of corn or a can of green beans. This is my “easy lunch” for the kids when I’m pressed for time but I don’t want to buy them fast food or feed them frozen processed food. I ask them, “Do you kids want beans and corn for lunch?” The answer is always, “Yes, please!” And all three of them eat at least two bowls at one sitting.

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

ADVENTURES

Grab Your Ice Skates

typical winter wonderland image that comes to mind is that of iceskaters whipping and whirling around a beautifully lit ice skating rink – perhaps in Rockefeller Center – under a light snowfall. Sounds perfect! Well, what’s even better? Skating below the majestic forms of Glacier Point and Half Dome in Yosemite National Park with your family. It's no New York City, but it's natural beauty beyond belief and it's just a three-hour car ride away. Yosemite National Park provides a one-of-a-kind experience for those wishing to get swept up in the breathtaking views of its very own scenic backdrop and the joy of the winter season. A perfect way to experience the outdoors with friends and family, ice-skating provides a fun alternative to other winter activities – and a memory to cherish forever. The Curry Village Ice Rink was established in 1928 when the Yosemite Winter Club flooded an unused parking lot, creating

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

what is now a permanent fixture. The rink is located in the western part of Curry Village, nestled below Glacier Point with views of snow-capped Yosemite icons, including Half Dome. The rink is large and gives everyone room to practice – whether it's just staying vertical or a triple axel jump. For those having a hard time staying upright on the ice or who simply want to enjoy the setting, a warm fire pit adjacent to the rink is perfect for reveling in the natural beauty of Yosemite, socializing with friends and people who visit from around the world – and of course, a lovely place to sip on hot cocoa. Whatever your goal is for enjoying the Curry Village Ice Rink, the wonders of the winter season and the beauty of Yosemite will be sure to make you want to return next time the temperatures drop. From mid-November until early March, the Curry Village Ice Rink is open daily for several skating sessions, conditions permitting. Monday-Friday, 3:30-6 p.m., 7-9:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8:30-11a, 12-2:30 p.m., 3:30-6 p.m., and 7-9:30 p.m. The ice rink is also available for private parties on weekdays. Call (209) 372-8319 for more information about this charming familyfun adventure at the Curry Ice Rink in Yosemite National Park.

HAPPY TRAILS

Happy Trails Riding Academy

appy Trails Riding Academy is a non-profit program that enriches the lives of children with physical, cognitive and psychological disabilities through equine associated activities and therapy. Therapeutic horsemanship provides a unique opportunity for selfimprovement and independence in a positive learning environment, while offering a challenging alternative to traditional therapy. As the horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body moves, the riderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body moves like it is walking. No piece of gym equipment can replicate this three-dimensional motion. Benefits of therapeutic riding include increased balance, strength and flexibility, reduction of abnormal movement patterns, and improved respiration and circulation. Increased ability to process information, improved language skills, independence, self-confidence and positive social interactions are also all a direct result of therapeutic horsemanship lessons. Currently, Happy Trails provides five different Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies that include: Therapeutic Riding, Equine Assisted Therapy and Life Skills (accompanied by an Occupational Therapist), Interactive Vaulting, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, and Therapeutic Driving. In 2012, Happy Trails provided more than 2,200 therapeutic lessons. Our riders range in age from 3 to 50+ with the majority (90 percent) under the age of 18. Happy Trails Riding Academy assists riders with a wide range of disabilities, including Cerebral Palsy, ADD, ADHD, head trauma, brain injury, sight and hearing

impairments, developmental disabilities, Autism, Down Syndrome, and more. The following communities were served in 2012: Tulare, Visalia, Porterville, Hanford, Lindsay, Tipton, Exeter, Dinuba, Fresno, Lemoore, Woodlake, Corcoran, Farmersville, Pixley, Strathmore, Sultana, Springville and Ridgecrest. Each week, Happy Trails is assisted by approximately 75 volunteers who are truly the backbone of the program. These volunteers donated nearly 8,000 hours in 2012 alone. There are currently 17 kind and noble equine volunteers at Happy Trails. The horses range in age from seven to 29 years old and come in all shapes, sizes, breeds and colors. Happy Trails Riding Academy is a non-profit program, 501(c)3, and is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) premier accredited center; the only fully accredited therapeutic riding center in the San Joaquin Valley between Bakersfield and Modesto. For more information on Happy Trails Riding Academy, please contact us at (559) 688-8685 or WeAreHappyTrails@gmail.com.

Now Accepting Rider Applications for 2013! 559 739 1747 | DMIAgency.com

Happy Trails Riding Academy Therapeutic Horsemanship Advisers in design, message and ideas so your business grows.

559-688-8685

WeAreHappyTrails.com

2773 E. Oakdale Avenue, Tulare RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

COLLEGE PREP

Do High School Grades Really Matter? Text by Jesus and Adriana Gonzalez, Educational Consultants, ILEAD

arents of teens may hear this question posed in different ways. With these inquiring minds, high school is the perfect age to emphasize just how important getting good grades can be and how that can translate into success in college. At the root of the matter is a young student’s doubt about the role high school grades – more specifically a grade point average (GPA) – play in overall life and future accomplishments, even though parents and teachers alike have certainly emphasized this over the years. This has more to do with teens being concerned about the here and now and the interests they are pursuing for the next three weeks, not necessarily the next three years!

The task for parents continues to be to substantiate the importance of a high school GPA and its ultimate influence on life overall. Let’s remind our teens of a few reasons why high school grades really do matter for their futures. Building habits in school Students go to school to learn and to have optimal opportunities in life, although they may not yet realize this. Developing good habits that will help students of all ages succeed can never start too early. Good routines will help students in school and the rest of their lives. Taking on new responsibilities, managing time wisely, prioritizing and striving to receive the highest possible grades will foster a student’s work ethic and mental capacity, both in and outside of the classroom. Being committed to excellence in all of these areas will no doubt carry over into a student’s post-secondary education. This is a prime time to break away from poor habits or study practices. Creating opportunities Most employers like to hire responsible and dependable students, and those who exhibit these characteristics will most likely be the first hired on. College scholarship applications seek these same traits and often times will ask for verification of a student’s GPA along with transcripts as evidence. For some scholarship committees, the safest approach to interpret

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

a student’s future potential is by viewing their past practices and classroom efforts, which are also reflected by a student’s grades. Not always, but often the difference of a scholarship award comes down to GPA. Parents and students should also keep in mind that four-year colleges and universities are inundated with student enrollment applications, and in their screening process reviewers also use GPA as a “snapshot” to determine a student’s academic ability or potential for success. All competitive colleges and universities use GPA along with a variety of other factors to determine who will be accepted and what scholarships will be granted. So, grades really do matter. Increased probability of college completion Research studies have indicated a strong relationship between a student’s high school GPA, their persistence to stay in school (college), and their ultimate academic success. Receiving good grades in college during a student’s freshman year has also shown to increase academic integration at the college or university, which is also a predictor of degree completion. Remind high school students that plan to enter college, “The goal is not just getting into college, but completing a degree.” Once students understand the importance of high school grades, it will facilitate their understanding about the dedication they need in order to create excellent habits early on. Rest assured, urging your student to maximize their academic opportunity, knowledge and effort while in high school and demonstrating it on their report card will greatly enhance their chances in life and lead to their college success!

Childhood Obesity

HEALTH

Text by John Reifenberg, ND/DC, Family HealthCare Network

n America, 35 percent of children and 67 percent of adults are either overweight or obese, and in the last 40 years, average calorie intake has increased from approximately 2,100 to 2,500 per day. Most Americans get 15-22 teaspoons (or 240-350 calories) of added sugar in their daily diets. Childhood obesity is often the result of many genetic and environmental factors, and is not simply the result of eating too many calories and not getting enough physical activity. Among children and adolescents, obesity rates and incidence of diabetes and pre-diabetes since 1980 have almost tripled, and obese children are more likely to become obese adults.

The causes of obesity may include: the unavailability of safe places to play or exercise; sedentary work and down time; less cooking at home and fewer family meals; inadequate sleep; low rates of sustained breastfeeding; and bigger portion sizes in packaged and restaurant food and drinks. Research shows that children eat more without realizing it if they are served larger portions. Only 18 percent of adolescents meet the daily recommendation of at least 60 minutes of physical activity, and only 33 percent of them attend daily physical education classes. They also average up to 7.5 hours a day using visual media, including television, computers, and cell phones. American media contains frequent marketing of foods high in calories, sugar, salt, fat, and refined carbohydrates â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially to children, influencing their food preferences. A recent survey discovered that 80 percent of parents let their children make their own food decisions at times. The consequences of childhood and adolescent obesity include higher rates of high blood pressure and cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, asthma, musculoskeletal pains, fatty liver disease, gallstones, and gastro-esophageal reflux. A medical study has found that 50 percent of overweight teenagers and 60 percent of obese youths nationwide have at least one risk factor for heart disease. Another study has found that children who are obese have carotid arteries which have prematurely aged by as much as thirty years. They also have a greater risk of social and psychological difficulties such as discrimination and poor self-esteem. States and communities may consider further steps if possible to help support and motivate children, teens and their families in the fight against overweight and obesity, including: looking at expanding access to fruits, vegetables and salad bars and limiting the sale of sugared drinks and unhealthy foods in schools; establishing school wellness and nutrition policies; creating safe environments for physical activity; improving access to parks, playgrounds and stores that sell healthy and affordable food; and supporting quality daily physical activity and obesity prevention programs in the community, schools, and workplace. Behavioral changes should ideally occur in the home, community, and schools simultaneously to have a significant effect, while support can be provided by the media, health care providers, faith-based institutions, and government agencies. Exercise Benefits According to research published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, it's been found that moderately intense daily exercise can work just as well for depression as a second antidepressant drug. After

studying patients with seven years of depression who underwent different types of exercises, almost 30 percent had reached full remission; an additional 20 percent showed significant improvement of depression symptoms. For women, moderate exercise worked best, and for men more intense exercise was most beneficial. Another recent study shows that exercise for migraines does nearly or equally as well as topiramate and relaxation techniques in preventing headache. Regular aerobic exercise of 40 minutes on a stationary bike, three times per week, was as effective as the other two therapies in migraine prevention, though caution is in order since intense exercise can at times worsen migraine. Asthma in Children A recent study found that children who ate at least one banana, or drank one glass of apple juice per day were 34-47 percent less likely to develop asthmatic breathing problems compared to kids who didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t consume these regularly. Consuming bananas early in life has also been linked to a lower risk of childhood leukemia. Other studies have shown that 1-3 hamburgers per week can increase the risk of asthma in children, and fruits and vegetables lower the risk. Inactivity and being overweight also raise the chances of developing asthma, or can make it worse. Breastfed children have less risk, and diets high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids lower asthma rates. Breathing techniques can improve lung function. Low levels of vitamin D, sulfites, high salt intake, and of course, allergies and hypersensitivities, can all aggravate asthma.

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

CALENDAR

january 2013

calendar of events dates to remember

Black Hole: The Other Side of Infinity JANUARY 4 Tule Fog Run JANUARY 19

CIRQUE ZIVA JANUARY 25

JANUARY

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

FEBRUARY

CALENDAR

4 Friday Nite Rocks!

A fun-filled night, for kids ages 5-13, of Rockwall climbing (child must weigh at least 30 pounds to climb the Rockwall), games and interactive play with the new XerDance system. Wireless dance pads provide a fun and interactive atmosphere! Pre-Registration: $5 members/$15 non-members; day of the event: $10 members/$20 non-members. Registration closes at 3 p.m. the day of event. Space is limited to 20 participants. When: Jan. 4; 6-8p Where: The Lifestyle Center, 5105 W. Cypress, Visalia Contact: 624-3416

11 Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity

Experience the creation of the Galaxy and witness the violent death of a star and subsequent birth of a black hole. Mathematical equations, cutting-edge science, and Einstein's theories fill in holes along the way. Tickets $4. When: Jan. 11; 7p Where: Pena Planetarium, 2500 W. Burrel Ave., Visalia Contact: 737-6334

19 Tule Fog Run

The Tule Fog Run offers a beautiful backdrop to a unique event. Join us in the fog as we run the St. John's River for a 10k, 5k and Kids Run. The event provides participants with a t-shirt, goodie bag, and healthy snacks. Kick on your new year the right way! When: Jan. 19; 7a Where: Cutler Park, 15520 Ivanhoe Dr., Visalia Contact: Visalia Parks & Recreation, 713-4365

25 CIRQUE ZIVA

World-renowned impresario Danny Chang and choreographer Angela Chang combine award-winning acrobatics, traditional dance, spectacular costumes, ancient and contemporary music and theatrical techniques to present a show of breathtaking skill and spellbinding beauty. Tickets $25 adults; $15 children. When: Jan. 25; 7p Where: Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 Main St., Visalia Contact: www.foxvisalia.org Perfect Little Planet

Discover our solar system through a new set of eyes. Fly over the surface of Pluto, dive over the ice cliffs of Miranda, sail through the rings of Saturn, feel the lightning storms at Jupiter, and walk on the surface of Mars. This is the solar system journey for space travelers of all ages. Tickets $4. When: Jan. 25; 7p Where: Pena Planetarium, 2500 W. Burrel Ave., Visalia Contact: 737-6334 Tulare County Library

First Tuesday Book Club (Dec. 4, 6:30p) Socrates Cafe (Dec. 11, 6:30p) Mystery Readers (Dec. 19, 6:30p) Where: Tulare County Library, 200 W. Oak Ave., Visalia Contact: 713-2700 or www.tularecountylibrary.org The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias

Imagine U Interactive Children’s Museum

Imagine U offers a variety of weekly interactive exhibits, events, and activities designed to entertain and engage your preschool child. Cost: $5 ages 2 & up When: Wednesday-Friday, 10a-4p & Saturday, 12-4p Where: 700 E. Main St., Visalia Contact: 733-5975 or www.imagineumuseum.org AgVentures at Heritage Complex

Agricultural Learning Center and Farm Equipment Museum with nearly 15 professionally designed interactive displays. Children learn about science and technology, food and nutrition, environmental issues, social studies and more! When: Mon.-Fri., 9a-4p Where: International Agri-Center, 4450 S. Laspina St., Tulare Contact: Venue Phone, 688-1030 Visalia Farmers’ Market – Harvest of the Valley

Weekly event open to the public featuring free live music, kids’ activities, cooking demonstrations and local, fresh produce available for purchase. The market also accepts EBT and WIC. When: Saturdays, 8-11:30a Where: Sears parking lot at Mooney and Caldwell, Visalia Contact: 967-6722 or www.visaliafarmersmarket.com

Offering children ages 6-18 a safe and fun place to go to after school. Programs focus on education, sports, arts, healthy life skills and character building. $10 annual fee. When: Monday – Friday, hours vary by community Where: Visalia, Exeter, Tulare, Porterville, Farmersville and Ivanhoe Contact: 592-4074 or www.bgcsequoias.org

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

SAFETY

Driving Safe in Foggy Conditions Requires

Everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

HELP

Text by Sergeant Amy Watkins, Visalia Police Department

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013

e have all been in this situation: driving down the road with the family in the car, the kids laughing and singing or maybe arguing with each other in the backseat. These types of distractions can be catastrophic when operating a motor vehicle; the danger increases when fog is introduced into the equation.

The valley fog has made an appearance this season and will remain through the winter months. Kids often fail to realize the difficulties in operating a car in the valley fog. Before traveling, especially during inclement weather, take time to review some passenger safety rules with your kids. 1. The driver is always in control of the car. 2. Passengers should never fiddle with the controls without asking first. 3. Be aware of other passengerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal space. 4. Keep conversations in the car short and at a low volume. 5. Stay quiet during turns and other difficult maneuvers, especially in the fog when the driver must rely on sound rather than sight. 6. Listen to the driver and be respectful of their needs at all times. Foggy conditions increase the need for passengers to respect and adhere to proper etiquette when in a vehicle. Talk to your kids about the fog and the dangers it can create on the road. Communicating with children prior to stressful situations will increase the capacity to learn and understand the importance of safety. Maintain an open dialogue with children so they feel free to ask questions. Questions regarding safety are beneficial and let the adults know the child is present in the conversation and thinking about the topic.

RESOURCES City Information

important numbers at a glance:

• Tulare County website www.co.tulare.ca.us • City of Visalia website www.ci.visalia.ca.us • City of Tulare website www.ci.tulare.ca.us • City of Exeter website www.cityofexeter.com • City of Woodlake website www.cityofwoodlake.com • Visalia Parks & Recreation, (559) 713-4365

Other Important Numbers County & City

Fire & Police • Tulare County Fire Department, (559) 747-8233 • Visalia Fire Department, (559) 713-4266 • Tulare Fire Department, (559) 684-4300 • Exeter Fire Department, (559) 592-3714 • Woodlake Fire Department, (559) 564-2181 • Tulare County Sheriff’s Department, (559) 636-4625; (559) 733-6218 • Visalia Police Department (Non-Emergency), (559) 734-8116 • Visalia Police Department, Gang Suppression and Narcotics Unit, (anonymous tip hotline) (559) 713-4737 • Tulare County - End Gang Hotline, (888) 363-4264 • Tulare Police Department, (559) 684-4238; (559) 686-3454 • Exeter Police Department, (559) 592-3103 • Woodlake Police Department, (559) 564-3325 • Kings & Tulare County California Highway Patrol, (559) 441-5400

Medical • Kaweah Delta Medical Center, (559) 624-2000 Emergency Room, (559) 624-2213 • Visalia Walk-In Medical Clinic, (559) 627-5555 • Tulare Regional Medical Center, (559) 688-0821 • Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency, (559) 624-8000 • Children’s Hospital Central California, (559) 353-3000

Education • Tulare County Library, (559) 713-2700; www.tularecountylibrary.org • Tulare County Office of Education, (559) 733-6300; www.tcoe.org • Visalia Unified School District, (559) 730-7300; www.vusd.org • Tulare City School District, (559) 685-7200; www.tcsdk8.org • Exeter Union School District, (559) 592-9421; www.exeter.k12.ca.us • Woodlake Public Schools, (559) 564-8081; www.woodlakepublicschools.org

Add your numbers below

• Tulare County Services - United Way, Dial 2-1-1; www.211ca.org • Delta Vector Control District, (559) 732-8606; www.deltavcd.com • Tulare & Kings Counties Suicide Prevention Task Force (Non-crisis), (559) 624-7471; www.sptf.org • Child Abuse Prevention Council, (559) 735-0456; www.tularecountycapc.org • Domestic Violence/Shelters, (559) 732-5941, (559) 685-9515; www.fstc.net • Sexual Assault 24-hr Confidential Hotline, (559) 732-7273; www.fstc.net • Alcohol/Drug Programs, (559) 733-6123 • Parenting Network, (559) 625-0384; www.parentingnetwork.org • Tulare-Kings Right To Life, (559) 732-5000; www.tkrl.org • The IRMA Network, (559) 732-5000; www.theirmanetwork.org • Latinos4Life, (559) 732-5000; www.latinos4life.org • Tulare County Animal Control, (559) 713-4957 • Visalia Animal Control, (559) 564-3346 • 5ive5ive9ine (Teen Health), 559teensmatter.org

Nationwide • American Association of Poison Control Centers, (800) 222-1222; www.aapcc.org • Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (800) 232-4636; www.cdc.gov • California Poison Control, (800) 222-1222; www.calpoison.org • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, (800) 273-8255; www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org • The Trevor Project (LGBTQ), (866) 488-7386; www.thetrevorproject.com • Child Abuse 24-hr Hotline, (800) 331-1585 • Missing Child Hotline, (800) 843-5678 • Road Conditions, (800) 427-7623

REMEMBER, WHEN IN DOUBT, DIAL

9-1-1

Add your numbers below

RAISE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013