April 2023

Who Qualifies?

Families qualify for the Alternative Payment Program based on two criteria “eligibility” and “need”.

“Eligibilit y”

To be “ eligible”, a family’s income must meet eligibility requirements set by the State Department of Social Services, Child Care and Development Division.

“Need”

A family “needs” childcare based on one of the following: parents are employed, in school, or participating in a training program, parents are incapacitated or are unable to adequately care for their child(ren), children with special needs (medical, psychological, or if the child(ren) needs care as protection from abuse or neglect.

CalWORKs Families (current and former recipients)

Childcare is a critical part of your success as a former or current recipient of CalWORKs (or AFDC) benefits. For former or current CalWORKs recipients, Supportive Services, Inc. can provide funding if you meet eligibility requirements.

How May I See if I Qualif y?

Currently there are more families in need of assistance than there is funding to help. A waiting list of eligible families is kept to fill funding slots as they become available. To be placed on the waiting list, you may contact (559) 230 -2030 or visit our website at ssifresno.org.

About Us

Serving Fresno, Kings, Madera, and Tulare Counties, and surrounding areas in the Central Valley. Central California Parent is published monthly. Our Mission is to present the highest-quality, family-friendly publication for parents in the Central Valley, to provide locally relevant, insightful, and useful information in an attractive and engaging style and format, and to offer practical resources and hands-on solutions for raising children and empowering families.

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR DISTRIBUTION

SALES & MARKETING

GRAPHIC PRODUCTION

PHOTOGRAPHY BEAUTY TEAM

Erika Bullis

Diane Melton

Arnie Manchester

Linda Moua

Erika Bullis

Christan Williams

Paul Mitchell The School Fresno

Rochelle Martinez-Cantu

Kimberly Angeles-Arcia

Ismael Elzy

WRITERS

Rebecca Hastings

Contact Us

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Dear Reader,

With Easter hopping into the month on April 9th, you may be looking for a fun recipe to make with your kids. Hop to page 8 for an adorable Easter Bunny Butt Cake recipe. We’ve also highlighted some places where you can find the Easter Bunny this year!

Earth Day is the perfect time to be inspired to make simple changes for a lasting difference. Flip to page 20 for, “Try These 12 Easy Ways to Celebrate the Earth,” where author Rebecca Hastings offers actionable tips your family can implement. Pick one per month or just choose your favorites to get started.

You’ll also want to check this issue’s Summer Camp Directory on page 12. There are so many wonderful opportunities for kids in the summertime. From education to motorsports and overnight camps to day programs, you won’t want to overlook any of the summer programs listed and advertised throughout this issue.

Plus, don’t forget to check out A+ Preschools on page 11, our calendar on page 15, Things We Love on page 20, and two fun giveaways on pages 15 and 20!

Have a Hoppy Easter!

Erika Bullis

ShortStuff

News You Can Use

Healthy Bodies and Minds

Did you know:

• Only 1 in 3 children get physical activity each day?

• About 15 million children have a mental, emotional, or behavioral health condition?

• Approximately 1 in 7 kids live with food insecurity?

Action for Healthy Kids helps kids thrive by bringing families and schools together to ensure kids have access to safe places to play and be active, nutritious foods, and healthy, supportive experiences. Visit actionforhealthykids.org to explore resources like bullying prevention, healthy snacking ideas, STEAM activities, family self-care plans, fitness ideas, and so much more!

Action for Healthy Kids also brings together district leaders, school staff, and families. Through FamilySchool partnerships, they identify barriers to family engagement and specific child health needs, then work together to develop, implement, and evaluate effective and equitable solutions. Family-School Partnerships incorporate academic and social education in two of the most impactful environments in a child’s life: school and home. When school staff, families, and community members work together to create healthy, safe, and supportive learning environments for their children, academic achievement and educational equity are improved immensely. Visit actionforhealthykids.org/learn-more-family-schoolpartnerships to learn how you can get involved.

Celebrate Earth Day

The Central Valley is a unique and special place to live. We’re blessed with amazing weather and beautiful nature that we can enjoy year-round. Whether it’s a local park, rivers and lakes, the Sierras, or nearby Yosemite, Valley residents are able to take advantage of our incredible environment with a variety of activities to keep us healthy and engaged with the outdoors.

Get outside and celebrate Earth Day with these simple ideas:

• Encourage your family to start recycling and composting after meals—get the kids involved!

• Head to Pinterest for some fun arts and crafts like earth paper plates, printable coloring sheets, and more!

• Use your time at home to start a garden. Have the kids take turns watering and weeding. Take a picture every day and see how fast your seeds grow!

• Go online and learn about your carbon footprint. Make monthly goals for the whole family to follow to see if you can reduce, reuse, and recycle!

Earth Day is on April 22nd. Visit earthday.org/earth-day-2023 to learn more.

Free National Helpline for Struggling Families

With the importance of mental health awareness continuing to grow, meet Parents Anonymous®. This nonprofit platform is dedicated to parents and families who are struggling and offers a multilingual national helpline, support groups, and mental health services—all for free.

Parents and caregivers can join a free weekly online support group to explore their underlying emotions and build resiliency to strengthen their family. Each Parents Anonymous® group has a trained group facilitator and parent group leader.

Parents Anonymous® believes that Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®. They encourage parents, children, and youth to call, text, and live chat through the website to receive the emotional support they need and deserve, in any language from trained counselors. While the nonprofit is based in California, the helpline is a national service for parents and children all over the United States.

Visit caparentyouthhelpline.org or raisingfuture.org for help or to learn more.

Some Shorter Stuff

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Strong, nurturing communities that are supportive of families can get involved and play a role in preventing child abuse and neglect and promoting child and family well-being. Visit preventchildabuse.org for more information.

Calling All Poets! Join the Fresno County Public Library in celebrating the 24th Annual Poetry Contest! Poems will be judged by talented locals with categories: 3rd–5th Grade, 6th–8th Grade, 9th–12th Grade, and Adults 18+. Top three poems of each category will earn a prize! Enter at fresnolibrarypoetry.org by April 30th.

FREE Entrance Days at National Parks! Explore Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks free of charge as the National Park Service celebrates National Park Week. Entrancefree day is on April 22nd. Check nps.gov before planning a trip to review updated safety information.

Weekly Giveaways! Be sure to stay connected with Central California Parent at ccparent.com and all our social platforms for a chance to win cool prizes every week! Last month we gave away performance tickets, books, parenting products, toys, and more!

CCSPCA Bookmark/Video Contest: “Pets Need Love and…!”

Elementary students are invited to illustrate a bookmark and middle and high school students are invited to make a video PSA— all going along with this year's theme. Deadline is May 8th! Learn more by calling 233-0115.

Meet our Cover Kid, Gage!

Gage is a fun-loving 3-year-old from Reedley. He loves to play and watch sports, including baseball, hockey, and soccer. Gage also loves helping in the kitchen and being his mom's sou chef and spending time with his grandmas. Gage enjoys books, puzzles, and anything transportation—including race cars, monster trucks, airplanes, trains, and construction rigs! His two best friends are Shark (his blanket) and Jesus. He's hungry to learn just about anything and loves going to church and preschool.

Cultivate Green Thumbs by Planting Trees. Arbor Day is on April 28th this year. Visit arborday.org and learn how you can help plant trees or discover other great ways to connect your family with nature.

Always at ccparent.com! Visit us online to view the digital edition of this month’s issue, our calendar of family events any day of the week, local resources, and so much more!

Homework Resources from the Environmental Protection Agency Visit epa.gov/students for lots of resources! Students K–12 will find links to help with climate change, ecosystems, pollution, and energy assignments—to name a few. The site even has a variety of quizzes and games for kids to learn about the environment. Teacher resources include science-based and environmental lesson plans, guides, activities, and more!

Don’t miss out on Fresno Paci c University summer camps!

Music Camp

June 25-30 • Grades 6-12

Programs include band, choir, orchestra, piano, contemporary worship, musical theater. Students of all skill levels welcome!

Athletic Camps

Throughout the summer •

Various ages and skill levels

Basketball (men and women), soccer (men and women), volleyball (women)

Youth Drama Camp

July 17-21 • Students aged 13-18

Intensive theater acting class focused on the work of Shakespeare

For the complete list and to register for any camp visit Fpu.edu/summercamps

HealthWatch

An Update on your Family’s Health and Welfare

Supporting Baby's Foot Development

Experts recommend that babies go barefoot for as long as possible and shoes are only a necessity when they are walking unaided outside. However, when the time comes, footwear choice can be crucial to your child’s growth and future development.

Will Munro, Managing Director at FootActive, explains the implications of putting shoes on babies too early and what impact this can have, "The biggest problem is that it could slow their development down. They’re also unlikely to move as much because it will feel quite restricting for a baby to have something on their feet. It really isn’t necessary to be putting babies in shoes, especially while they’re still at a crawling age."

FootActive offers expert tips on how to care for your baby’s feet, plus what to keep in mind when you buy their first pair of shoes.

Tips on how to care for your baby’s feet:

• Wash and dry their feet thoroughly daily.

• Trim or file toenails regularly, but not too short.

• Do not restrict their feet in ill-fitting baby grows or socks.

• Encourage muscle development with exercises such as kicking.

Signs of a foot health issue:

• Redness or rashes between toes, around the arches, and ankles, or any lumps on the soles of feet

• Toenail inflammation or discoloration

• Bad posture from excessively turned in or out feet

• Deformed toes

Choosing the best fit: You will get the most accurate measurement if you measure their feet in the afternoon, as baby feet tend to swell during the day. This can be done by a professional shop fitting service or at home. If measuring at home:

• Measure the length and width of both feet. It is common for each foot to measure at a different size during your child’s development. Buy shoes that fit the largest foot.

• It is recommended by The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists that a new shoe should be approximately 12–16mm longer than the longest toe.

• Your child’s feet should be measured every 2–4 months as they will likely grow within that time period.

Visit footactive.co.uk/blog/225-baby-s-first-shoes for more information.

–FootActive

Self-Care for Parents

Stress causes wear and tear on a person, inside and out. When you take time for self-care, you are better able to care for your child. Even a few minutes of “you time” can help you recharge so that you can parent at your best. Remember, you are doing a great job by doing the best you can. Keep these tips in mind when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Stay social. Spending more time at home than usual can take a toll. Reach out to loved ones and friends with a phone call or video chat. If you are keeping social distance from others, it doesn’t mean you need to go at it alone.

Sleep. When your little one is resting, try to do the same. If they are having trouble settling down, sing them a quiet song that you loved when you were small, one that calms you down, too.

Take a 10-minute vacation. Take a break by listening to a favorite song, reading a few pages of a new book, or doing some energizing stretches. As you’re bathing your child, soak your hands in the warm water and give yourself a hand massage, taking long, deep breaths as you do so.

Keep a journal by your bed. Before you fall asleep, remember something funny, kind, or surprising that your child did today. Write a few lines in your journal that capture the memory. If you are feeling down, you can read through your memory journal.

Fill your cup. Get a nice big glass of water and find a comfy spot to sit. Let your child know, “I’m just going to sit and read / think / breathe while I drink this glass of water.” Explain that you’ll be available once the glass is empty. Children have difficulty keeping track of time—this is a concrete way to help them understand that you are taking a few minutes to yourself.

Turn on the tunes! Never underestimate the power of music to change the mood. Put together a playlist of songs that make you feel good. You could create different playlists for different moods—one to relax, one to energize, and so on.

Get moving. Taking movement breaks throughout the day can help alleviate stress and keep you well. Even if you’re stuck inside, try a few small-space, bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, armraises, or yoga.

–PBS.org

Behaviors and Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy & Baby

Birth defects are structural changes that affect one or more parts of the body. They develop most often during the first three months of pregnancy, when a baby’s organs are forming and can cause problems in overall health, how the body develops, and functions. About 1 in 33 babies in the U.S. is born with a birth defect each year, according to the CDC. Common birth defects include congenital heart defects, cleft lip and cleft palate, and spina bifida.

Your genetics, behaviors, and social and environmental factors can impact the risk for birth defects, but not all birth defects can be prevented. However, there are things you can do to increase your chance of having a healthy, full-term pregnancy and baby.

Before Pregnancy

Get a preconception checkup: This is a medical checkup you get with your prenatal care provider before pregnancy to help make sure you’re healthy when you get pregnant. Go for this checkup before you start trying to get pregnant.

Stay up-to-date on vaccinations: Ask your health care provider if your vaccinations are up to date before you try to get pregnant. Some vaccinations protect you from infections that can cause birth defects. For example, rubella is an infection that can cause hearing loss, heart defects, and other health problems for your baby. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. If you don’t have a record of your vaccinations, your provider can check your immunity for rubella with a blood test. If you need the MMR vaccination, wait at least 4 weeks after you get the shot before you try to get pregnant.

Take folic acid: Take a vitamin supplement that has 400 micrograms of folic acid in it every day. Folic acid is a B vitamin that every cell in your body needs for normal growth and development. Taking folic acid before and during early pregnancy can help prevent neural tube defects (NTDs) in your baby.

Learn about your genes and family health history: If you, your partner, your children, or someone in your families has a birth defect, you may want to see a genetic counselor. This is a person who is trained to help you understand about genes, birth defects, and other medical conditions that run in families and how they can affect your health and your baby’s health. Use the March of Dimes Family Health History Form to collect information about health conditions in your family. Share the form with your genetic counselor or health care provider.

Work with your health care provider to manage chronic health conditions. If you have a chronic health condition, like diabetes, work with your health care providers to manage your condition and treatment before pregnancy. For example, if you have preexisting diabetes, work to get it under control 3–6 months before pregnancy. Monitor your blood sugar, take your diabetes medicine, eat healthy foods, and be active every day.

Talk to your provider about medicines you take. Certain medicines you take may increase your baby’s risk of having a birth defect. Tell your provider about any prescription medicines, overthe-counter medicines, supplements, and herbal products you take. If a medicine you take may be harmful to your baby, you may be able to change to one that’s safer before or during pregnancy. Some medicines may be critical to your own health, even if they may

Continued on page 10

Easter Bunny Locations

Fashion Fair Mall, Fresno

Visit the Easter Bunny for photos through April 8th in Center Court!

Reservations available, but not required. Open Monday–Friday 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–8 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Fashion Fair Mall, 645 E. Shaw Avenue. 224-1591

Hanford Mall, Hanford

Hop over and take a photo with the Easter Bunny through April 8th at the Mall! Monday–Saturday 11 a.m.–7 p.m. and Sunday 12–6 p.m. Pet photos on April 3rd and 4th, 5–7 p.m. Hanford Mall, 1675 W. Lacey Boulevard. 583-1200

Sierra Vista Mall, Clovis Snap a photo with the Easter Bunny through April 8th in Center Court!

Monday–Saturday 11 a.m.–8 p.m. and Sunday 12–6 p.m. Sierra Vista Mall, 1050 Shaw Avenue. 299-0660

Visalia Mall, Visalia Get egg-cited for photos with the Easter Bunny through April 8th!

Monday–Friday 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Booking is recommended, but not required. Visalia Mall, 2031 S. Mooney Boulevard. 733-3899

by Culinary.net

A Hoppy Easter Cake

Warmer days at the start of spring mean Easter is almost here, and the big bunny himself will be hopping around in no time delivering goodies. This Easter, celebrate with your loved ones with a delicious and colorful Easter Bunny Butt Cake. It can bring smiles and laughter while putting everyone in a light, joyful mood.

This cake is fun and bright with a fluffy, moist interior. Complete with chocolate candy eggs, shredded coconut, and chocolate chips for little bunny toes, this recipe goes all out to paint a picture of the Easter bunny.

Easter Bunny Butt Cake

Servings: 10–12

Cake Ingredients

• Nonstick cooking spray

• 2 eggs, plus 4 egg whites, at room temperature

• 3/4 cup cream of coconut

• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained

• 2 teaspoons coconut extract

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 1/4 cups flour

• 1 cup sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

Buttercream Frosting Ingredients

• 3 cups powdered sugar

• 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened

• 3 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract

Decoration Ingredients

• 4 thin pretzel sticks

• 1 bag (10 ounces) sweetened shredded coconut

• 8 drops green food coloring

• 2 large round chocolate candy melts

• 6 chocolate chips

• Mini candy-coated chocolate eggs

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325 F.

2. Line muffin pan with four paper liners. Spray an oven-safe glass bowl with nonstick cooking spray.

3. In a separate large bowl, whisk eggs, egg whites, cream of coconut, pineapple, coconut extract, and vanilla extract until combined.

4. In food processor, pulse flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined. Add 6 tablespoons butter. Pulse until combined. Add remaining butter. Pulse until coarse meal forms.

5. In a clean large mixing bowl, add coarse flour-butter meal. Add half of the egg mixture. Mix 1–2 minutes. Add remaining egg mixture; mix until combined.

6. Fill the four muffin cups 2/3 full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until done. Cool completely.

7. Pour remaining batter into prepared oven-safe bowl. Bake for 1 hour and 40 minutes—or until done. Cool completely.

8. Next, make the buttercream frosting: In large bowl, add powdered sugar and butter; beat with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add milk, vanilla extract, and coconut extract; beat until creamy.

9. Take the cooled cake, and turn that bowl upside-down on a cake stand until the cake releases from the bowl. If the cake needs leveling, carefully turn cake over and trim to flatten. Frost cake.

10. Remove wrappers from cupcakes. Press two pretzel sticks into the base of the cupcakes and anchor them to the bottom rim of the bowl cake to create bunny feet. Frost feet.

11. Take the third cupcake and cut the muffin top off, then cut muffin top in half. Using one pretzel stick, anchor one muffin top half at the bottom of the feet to form the toes. Repeat with second muffin top half for other foot. Frost toes.

12. Attach the final cupcake with remaining pretzel stick to butt area of cake to make a tail. Frost tail.

13. Apply 1 1/2 cups of shredded coconut all over cake. Press chocolate candy melts into bottoms of bunny feet to resemble foot pads. Add chocolate chips to resemble pads for toes.

14. Place remaining shredded coconut in a plastic bag. Add the green food coloring. Toss in bag until coconut is colored. Spread around the base of the cake for the grass. Decorate grass with chocolate eggs.

Tips: Spoon flour into dry measuring cup and level off excess. Scooping directly from bag compacts flour, resulting in dry baked goods. Add 1 tablespoon of additional milk if frosting is too stiff. Keep adding until desired consistency.

Hoppy Easter! Visit Culinary.net for more creative and scrumptious holiday recipes!

For more information:

Now Accepting New Patients

Continued from HealthWatch on page 7

affect your baby. You and your provider can weigh the benefits and risks of medicine you take to give you the healthiest possible pregnancy. Don’t start or stop taking any medicine without talking to your health care provider first.

Get to a healthy weight: Being obese can increase your baby’s chances of having birth defects like NTDs, heart defects, and cleft palate. If you’re obese, you have an excess amount of body fat and your body mass index is 30 or higher. To find out your BMI, go to cdc.gov/bmi. Eating healthy foods and doing something active every day can help you get to a healthy weight.

During Pregnancy

Get early and regular prenatal care: At each prenatal care checkup, your provider checks on you and your growing baby. Call your provider and go for your first prenatal care checkup as soon as you know you’re pregnant. And go to all of your prenatal care checkups, even if you’re feeling fine. If you have a chronic health condition, work together with your prenatal care provider and other providers to manage your condition during pregnancy.

Keep taking folic acid: During pregnancy, take a prenatal vitamin that has 600 mcg of folic acid in it every day.

Communicate with providers: Make sure any provider who prescribes you medicine knows you’re pregnant. Don’t start or stop taking any medicine—including OTC medicines, supplements, and herbal products—during pregnancy without talking to your provider first. Doing this can cause serious problems for you and your baby. For example, talk to your provider before taking a vitamin A supplement. Getting too much vitamin A can increase your baby’s risk of having a birth defect.

Don’t smoke, drink alcohol, or use street drugs: These activities can cause many problems for your baby, including birth defects. If you need help to quit, ask your provider for help or visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Treatment Services Locator to find services near you.

Avoid harmful substances in your environment: Talk to your boss if you come in contact with harmful substances at work, like strong chemicals, pesticides, lead, radiation, or chemotherapy medicines. Ask about making changes to your job or doing different work while you’re pregnant. Avoid secondhand smoke during pregnancy. Don’t eat fish that contain large amounts of

Don’t travel to areas where Zika virus is spreading. If you do travel to a Zika-affected area, learn how to prevent mosquito bites. This is the most common way Zika spreads. Protect yourself from toxoplasmosis, which can cause birth defects like hearing loss. This is an infection caused by a parasite that lives in soil. You can get infected by eating raw or undercooked meat or unwashed vegetables. You also can get it by touching cat feces. To reduce your risk of getting toxoplasmosis, prepare food safely, wear gloves when you touch soil, avoid contact with animal feces, and have someone else change your cat’s litter box. Protect yourself from cytomegalovirus (CMV.) CMV is a common infection caused by a virus and spreads through body fluids like saliva and urine. Infection for the first time during pregnancy, increases the chances of your baby having birth defects like microcephaly and hearing loss. Reduce your risk by washing your hands often, wearing gloves when changing diapers, and avoiding sharing food and utensils with babies and young

–March of Dimes

A+ Preschools

The Central Valley has some of the best preschool programs available. See what these local preschool programs have to offer.

Brighten Academy Preschool

Clovis / Fresno (559) 900-4352

Brighten Academy Preschool is an assessmentdriven preschool enrichment program for children ages 2-6 years of age. Curriculum and instruction are based on the California State Kindergarten standards and children are taught according to their individual levels and needs. Children are placed in classes with peers that are within 5-6 months in age range which creates an even more specialized learning environment. Focus is not only on academic growth, but on social, emotional, and gross-motor development skills fostering self-esteem and problem-solving skills which, in turn, creates a self-assured, confident student when entering the world of public school. Three Clovis locations and three Fresno locations.

CrossCity Christian Preschool

Fresno (559) 299-8484

CrossCity is a safe, fun environment that offers an Academic enrichment program as well as a Christ-centered curriculum that allows each child to grow in their faith while preparing to make them successful at school. Our program is assessment-driven based on California State Preschool standards which include: art, music, literature, science, math, and reading-readiness activities. CrossCity offers a variety of class options with qualified, loving teachers. Lots of fun, hands-on experiences for ages 2 1/2–5 yrs. old (must be 3 by December 1st and potty trained).

Fresno Montessori School

Fresno (559) 432-3669

The Fresno Montessori program offers the child the experience of learning in an inviting environment that creates a love of learning with the freedom of choice in the areas of life skills, math, language, culture, science, art and Spanish. Classes are offered for children 18 months-6 years with a Montessori trained teaching staff. Tour’s available. fresnomontessori@gmail.com

St. Anthony’s Preschool

Fresno (559) 435-0700

St. Anthony’s Preschool is a licensed preschool serving the Catholic community of Fresno where faith and learning grow hand in hand. As a ministry of St. Anthony of Padua Parish, our preschool welcomes our youngest learners to instill the morals, values, and teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. Our developmentally appropriate curriculum supports the whole child, promotes our faith, and provides an environment which fosters the formation of the hearts and minds of students in truth, knowledge, service, and wisdom. Apply today and come grow with us! Call for more information 559.435.0700 or visit our website: sasfresno.com

St. Helen's Catholic School Preschool

Fresno (559) 251-5855

St. Helen's School Preschool is a licensed preschool serving the Catholic community of Fresno where children learn, play and pray in Jesus way. As a ministry of St. Helen's

Catholic Church, our preschool welcomes our youngest learners to instill the morals, values, and teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. Our developmentally appropriate curriculum supports the whole child, promotes our faith, and provides an environment which fosters the formation of the hearts and minds of students in truth, knowledge, service, and wisdom. Apply today and join our other angels in training! Call for more information 559.251.5855 or visit our website: shsfresno.org

St. La Salle Preschool and Daycare

Center

Reedley (559) 638-2621

Our center offers a Christ centered environment. It is a caring, safe and fun place for your children. We prepare our children for kindergarten by providing a high quality curriculum. Children are encouraged to explore, experiment and learn through a variety of activities and hands-on experiences. Our curriculum includes: religion, literacy, math, science, art, music, social studies and computer skills. We enroll full and part-time from 3-5 years of age.

Westminster Christian Preschool

Fresno (559) 226-1414

Over 40 years of traditional morning preschool excellence. Located near Palm and Shaw. Child friendly environment. Small class sizes. Large shaded playground. Thematic and biblical curriculum offered by qualified caring staff. Visitors welcome.

www.westminster-preschool.com.

Quality State Preschool that Prepares your Child for Kindergarten

Find your local preschool center

We know parents are busy. That’s why we have 8 locations all over Fresno and Kings County to make your life easier. Now enrolling children in part-time and full-time programs.

Is Educare right for your child?

We want to make sure Educare is the perfect match for your family. We accept children ages 3-5, who are potty-trained (no pull ups please), and 3 years old on or before December 1st.

Summer Camp Directory

Start planning your kids’ best summer ever! We’ve listed some of the best camps around!

ABC Piano Studio

Fresno (559) 515-0424

TK–2nd graders are invited to join for Music Camp, 90 minutes, once a week. Mondays 9:30–11 a.m. or Thursdays 9–10:30 a.m. $300 for 6 weeks, $400 for 8 weeks. Text or call for more information! Facebook:

@AbcPianoStudio

ArtAcademy at Fresno Art Museum

Fresno (559) 441-4221

The Fresno Art Museum’s Summer 2023 ArtAcademy will run during the weeks of June 12-16, June 19-23, July 31-August 4, and August 7-11. Included are a variety of half-day workshops, many inspired by our exhibitions, from architecture to stop-motion animation, portraits, drawing and painting, to the “wild things” of Maurice Sendak, and more, for ages 8-17. Come create with us! To learn about our programs and to register go to http://fresnoartmuseum.org/art2023 or email Susan@fresnoartmuseum.org

Art Camp at Children’s Art Studio

Fresno (559) 799-5860

Located in Fresno’s OLD FIG in a park-like setting. Ages 6-12. Find registration Form @www.childrensartstudio.biz Six, five day sessions: Monday-Friday: June 12-July 22. PAINT, DRAW, CLAY, SWIM, PICNIC, PLAY, Develop SKILLS while learning from ART HISTORY. $275 per week.

Aspire Speech and Learning Center

Fresno (559) 228-9100

Aspire provides Speech-Language Therapy and Academic Tutoring to accelerate growth and achievement year-round. Call for a free consultation. 559-228-9100.

Bricks4Kidz

Fresno/Clovis (559) 285-1725

Bricks4Kidz camps provide an extraordinary atmosphere for children, where we learn, we build, we play…with LEGO® bricks. Programs are built around engaging themes designed by engineers and architects. Themes such as Mining and Crafting, Super Mario and Amusement Park along with Jr. Engineers (ages 4-5), Robotics and Stop Motion Animation are sure to please your child. Our theme-based models provide the building blocks for the Bricks4Kidz approach to educational play. At Bricks4Kidz, we believe that kids learn best through activities that engage their curiosity and creativity. Register online at www.bricks4kidz.com/northfresno-clovis.

CART Summer Academy

Fresno/Clovis (559) 248-7400

Don’t miss the opportunity for your kids to invent, experiment, create, learn, and most importantly have fun during CART’s half-day weeklong Summer Academy, June 12th-16th. Hands-on project-based learning experiences include Game Design, Builder’s Workshop, Pixel Playground, Mini-med school, Optical Illusions & the Brain, Lemonade Stand, Robots Rockets & Airplanes, and more. Each learning experience is designed to inspire creativity, make new friends, and develop usable skills. To learn more visit www.cart.org. Registration starts April 17th. Grades: Incoming 4th-6th.

Confidence Builders Tutoring LLC

Clovis (559) 647-2267

Summer is the perfect time to: get ahead, stay on track, catch up! Call Confidence Builders Tutoring LLC for the perfect summer program for your pre-K through grade 8 student.

Cullinan Education Center

Fresno (559) 43-LEARN

Thirty-three years of helping students close achievement gaps in reading, writing, and spelling using explicit multisensory Orton Gillingham instruction with an emphasis on decoding, fluency and comprehension. Tutoring is also available in math through Algebra II and advanced writing and grammar. Consultations are free. Call today to inquire about our summer tutoring camps and to schedule a consultation. Visit our website at www.cullinaneducation.com.

Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Fresno (559) 498-5910

Fresno Chaffee Zoo camps fosters an appreciation and understanding of animals and nature through animal observations, nature play, interactive games, arts and crafts, and so much more! Programs available for campers ages 3–17. See the full list of weekly topics like Animal Engineers, Colorful Creatures, Global Zooventures, and Junior Zookeeper at fresnochaffeezoo.org or call 559-498-5920. Weekly fees start at $160 based on age group. Fresno Chaffee Zoo members get discounted rates.

Fresno Fencing Club Swordplay

Camp

Fresno (559) 224-1910

En Garde! Strength, balance, coordination… and swords! What could be more fun than learning the Olympic and Collegiate Sport of fencing? Ages 8 and up will enjoy four days of crossing blades with their camp mates. Experience this amazing sport! Visit www.fresno-fencing.com or call for more information.

Fresno Music Academy & Arts

Tower

Fresno (559) 222-7464

Keep your child motivated this summer with our summer camps! One week of Art and one week of Music, with a performance at the end! Call or visit us at www.fresnomusicacademy.com. Enroll now for a summer they’ll never forget!

Gymnastics Beat Summer Camp

Fresno (559) 271-9400

Summer will be here before you know it! And while your kids are doing what they normally do: jumping off the couch or bed, running around the house needing to get that pent up energy out or just plain bored, why not sign them up for our annual ‘COOL’ gymnastics summer camps? We have tons of things to do in our 18,000 sq ft gym! 2

spring floors, trampolines, bars, beams, ropes, cargo net, rings, climbing wall, ninja obstacle course, arts-n-crafts and especially, the kid’s summer favorite-outdoor water games, all while having a blast socializing! Half days and full days available with discounts for buying in bulk packages and pre-registration! Ages 3 to 17

Gymnastics Beat Ninja-Zone

Fresno (559) 271-9400

Ninja Zone is growing like crazy! With a combination of martial arts, tricking, tumbling, strength training and lots of fun, no wonder kids love to be involved in any of our classes, parent’s night out, ninja clinics and move up ceremonies! As with any of our programs, your children will be encouraged to develop endurance, flexibility, hand-eye coordination, and respect for all our trained coaches and fellow athletes! Can’t wait until summer? Want to join now? Call for more information about our current class listings, special clinics, and workshops! Thank you, Central Valley, for helping us celebrate 20 years of business!

Metal Mark Climbing & Fitness

Fresno (559) 229-7900

Indoor Rock Climbing and Fitness Camp! Eight one-week-long camps, Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-12:00 p.m., starting on June 13th. $325 for members, $375 for non-members. The camp focuses on climbing techniques, team building, fitness, games, and more! Call 559-229-7900 for more information. Ages 7 to 13. Registrations are now available online at www.touchstoneclimbing.com/metalmark/kids/climbing-camps

Rich Oliver’s Mystery School

Prather

(559) 855-3089

Open to ages 7–14, this three-day camp introduces youngsters on how to safely ride an off-road motorcycle and the valuable skills of how to use metric tools to maintain it. With the focus of motorcycling and mechanics, students experience a variety of STEAM activities throughout the camp. Tuition includes the motorcycle, complete riding gear, lunch and more. Visit https:// www.richoliver.net/collections/courses/products/kids-ride-andwrench-camps for more details and to see a video.

Science Literacy Camp at the Fossil Discovery Center

Chowchilla (559) 665-7101

The Fossil Discovery Center will run a Summer Literacy Camp from July 11th-14th. Many science focused activities for ages 7-12 at $75 each. Call 559-665-7107 to register.

Sequoia Lake Music Camp

Fresno

(559) 269-1410

July 22-29, 2023. Sequoia Lake Music Camp is a sleep away camp nestled in the woods one hour East of Fresno. With a tradition of over 50 years, we are a premier summer music program serving instrumental students in grades 5-12. A minimum of one year of instrumental music experience is recommended. In addition to the many musical opportunities offered are rec-time activities such as boating, swimming, arts & crafts, rock wall and more! Visit our website for information and contact us with any questions. We look forward to seeing you at the lake for the best week of the year! www.sequoialakemusic.com

Continued on page 14

Show your planet some love

Continued from Summer Camp Directory on page 13

Summer Week HORSE Camp at Starlite Vaulters

Clovis (559) 323-8550, (559) 579-3899

Camp: July 10-13, 2023. Equestrian Vaulting (dance & gymnastics on horseback), Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Cost: $375 if registered before June 1st; $400 if registered after June 1st. Location: Starlite Vaulters, 5220 N. Greenwood Ave., Clovis, CA 93619. Camp will cover horse care basics, vaulting, and crafts. To register: A non-refundable deposit of $200 required. Final payment of $200 is due first day of camp. For more information please call: (559) 323-8550 or (559) 579-3899. Minimum of 10 campers and maximum of 20 will be accepted.

The Company Studio’s: Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr.

Fresno (559) 202-3176

Students (ages 7–17) rehearse for 6 ½ weeks, Mondays–Fridays, 6/12–7/21, 1:00pm–4:00pm. Performances: 7/24 & 7/25

Evenings. Location: Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater (1226 N. Wishon, Fresno) & Good Company Players’ Annex. Enrollment Fee: $395 (Early Sign-up by 4/14); $425 (Sign-ups after 4/14). To enroll, go to https://www.thecompanystudio.org/. For more information, call 559-202-3176 or email TheCompanyStudio.info@gmail.com.

The Company Studio’s: Theatre Skills Workshop

Fresno (559) 202-3176

Students (ages 7–17) learn the basics of stage performance, prepare and perform scenes and musical numbers from upcoming GCP shows, especially those that have roles for young people. Taught by GCP Directors, Choreographers and Vocal Coaches. During the two weeks, they have a lot of fun, and it all culminates in a final lunchtime performance! Mondays–Fridays, 7/31–8/11, 9:00am–12:00pm (No class 7/3 & 7/4.) Final performance 8/11 at 12:15 pm. Enrollment Fee: $199 (Early signup by 5/31); $225 (Sign-ups after 5/31.) To enroll, go to https:// www.thecompanystudio.org/. For more information, call 559202-3176 or email TheCompanyStudio.info@gmail.com.

The Dancing School

Selma (559) 891-0388

Register now for classes in ballet, jazz and tap for ages 3 1/2 to adult. The school, directed by Deanna Moser Driscoll and Beth Zobian has been offering quality dance instruction since 1971. It is the home of the 2nd Street Dancers who perform locally and internationally. Classes begin June 12. Registration starts April 11. Go to DancingSchoolOfSelma.com for schedule, prices, and registration.

arts and crafts, and other exciting activities.

To register, visit fresnochaffeezoo.org

The Tutoring Center

Fresno (559) 412-2505

THE TUTORING CENTER® specializes in helping children master academic skills, get better grades, and gain the confidence, motivation, and concentration necessary to succeed with our one-to-one instruction. Grades K-12. www.tutoringcenter.com

AprilCalendar

Events are compiled six weeks in advance, we suggest that you call the telephone numbers provided to verify dates, times, costs, and locations of events. To Publicize Your Event: Central California Parent invites you to publicize your event by emailing a description including location, date, time, admission prices, age suitability, phone number for information, and photos. Central California Parent reserves the right to limit entries in this free service. Deadline is the 10th of the month preceding the event. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at calendar@ccparent.com or call (559) 435-1409.

1 Saturday

BIG HAT DAYS–CLOVIS The whole family will love Big Hat Days! Enjoy carnival rides, vendors, food, and more from 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Make sure you wear your big hat! Old Town Clovis. 299-7363

CHOWCHILLA EASTER EGG

SCRAMBLE Bunny trail opens at 9:30 a.m., perfect for ages 3 and under or children with special needs. Ages 4–5 can come scramble for eggs starting at 10 a.m., ages 6–7 at 10:30 a.m., ages 8–9 at 11 a.m., and ages 10–12 at 11:30 a.m. Families will also enjoy fun activities and more until 12 p.m. Edward Ray Park, 15th Street & Sonoma Avenue, Chowchilla. 665-8615

CINDERELLA–SELMA This contemporary take on the classic tale features new conflict, new characters, and a mission for the future of the Kingdom. This production is sure to delight the hearts of families with talented singers, beautiful sets, costumes, and fun surprises. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15–$21. Selma Arts Center, 1935 High Street, Selma. 891-2238

EGG FEST Enjoy Easter activities, Eggs-periments, candy, vendors, performances, and more for only $1! 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Fresno Discovery Center, 1944 N. Winery Avenue, Fresno. 251-5533

KERMAN EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Celebrate spring at this annual event with egg hunts for kids, games, and more! 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Lions Park, California and Park Avenues. 846-9383

KIDS CLUB Enjoy this free opportunity for kids to learn in a fun, interactive setting. Focusing on sustainability and living eco-friendly, this program is designed to teach kids about the importance of living with a "green" mindset. 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Fashion Fair Mall, 645 E. Shaw Avenue, Fresno. 224-1591

SARAH MOONEY'S 182ND BIRTHDAY–LEMOORE Enjoy live music, outdoor games, vendors, and prizes at this ice cream social from 12–3 p.m. $10 for two scoops. Sarah A Mooney Museum, 542 W. D Street, Lemoore. 904-9669

SENSORY SENSITIVE FILMS–CLOVIS Enjoy a showing of Tom & Jerry: The Movie in a sensory-friendly environment with the lights up and the volume down at 10 a.m. Matinée ticket prices apply, $10. Sierra Vista Cinemas 16, 1300 Shaw Avenue, Clovis. 323-1625

STORYTIME & CRAFT Children ages 3–6 and their parents are invited for free stories and a craft activity celebrating animals at 11 a.m. Petunia's Place, 6027 N. Palm Avenue, Fresno. 438-1561

2 Sunday

BIG HAT DAYS–CLOVIS The whole family will love Big Hat Days! Enjoy carnival rides, vendors, food, and more from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Make sure you wear your big hat! Old Town Clovis. 299-7363

6 Thursday

SPRING CARNIVAL EGGSTRAVAGANZA–TULARE Enjoy games, an Easter egg hunt, crafts, and more! Bring your own basket for the hunt! 5–7 p.m. Tickets: $3–$5. Zumwalt Park, E. Tulare Avenue, Tulare. 684-4310

7 Friday

FIRST FRIDAYS Nurture scientific imaginations, build confidence, and encourage testing, tinkering, creating, and wonder today for only $1! 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Fresno Discovery Center, 1944 N. Winery Avenue, Fresno. 251-5533

PC KIDS SPRING FLING Families are invited to join for this free event. Enjoy a Easter egg hunt, petting zoo, photo ops, activities, and more! 6–8 p.m. People’s Church, 7172 N. Cedar Avenue, Fresno. 298-8001

8 Saturday

EASTER EGG HUNT–BASS LAKE

Bring the kids and their baskets out for the annual Easter Egg Hunt at The Pines today for free! Enjoy family activities, photos with the Easter Bunny, egg hunts, and more! 12–4 p.m. The Pines Village, 54432 Road 432, Bass Lake. 642-3121

EASTER EGG HUNT–IVANHOE

Hop to this free event for a fun Easter Egg hunt at 10 a.m. Historic Seven Sycamores, 32988 Road 164, Ivanhoe. 731-3161

FRESNO FUEGO Cheer on your Fresno Fuego as they play Union Omaha at 7 p.m. Tickets: $20–$75. Fresno State Soccer Stadium, 1647 E. Barstow Avenue, Fresno. 573-9323

KIDS ZONE School-aged kids can grab a kit to work on a grow-your-own flower kit from 11 a.m.–12 p.m. for free! JCPenney, Fashion Fair, 555 E. Shaw, Fresno. 224-8330

Win free tickets to see the Fresno Grizzlies!

Grizzlies baseball is BACK! Experience all the fun and excitement this season at Chukchansi Park in Downtown Fresno. With promotions, great food, and Friday Night Fireworks there is something for everyone at the ballpark! Don’t miss a single pitch of the action and join for some of the best in family-fun and entertainment that the Central Valley has to offer. For tickets and information, call (559) 320-TIXS (8497) or visit FresnoGrizzlies.com

Central California Parent is giving away four family four-packs of tickets to a Fresno Grizzlies baseball game to some lucky readers! To be entered in our free random drawing, please send a postcard by April 30th with your name, phone number, email, and address. Mail to: Central California Parent: Fresno Grizzlies, 7638 N. Ingram, Suite 101, Fresno CA 93711. One entry per family, please.

FIXING LEAKY FAUCETS

11 Tuesday

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the Stockton Ports at 6:50 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

12 Wednesday

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the Stockton Ports at 6:50 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

13 Thursday

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the Stockton Ports at 6:50 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

14 Friday

FLYING INTO SPRING–TULARE

This amazing event will feature a kids zone, bounce houses, interactive photo booth, food vendors, a DJ, plus, the drone light show synchronized to musical favorites. Bring your own chairs or blankets and enjoy the show! 6–10 p.m. Tickets: $10–$20. International Agri-Center, 4500 S. Laspina Street, Tulare. 877-559-7593

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the Stockton Ports at 6:50 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME–OAKHURST This musical beautifully tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world. Rated PG. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theater, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

TWINKLE TWINKLE LITTLE STAR

Head to the planetarium for a showing of The Edge: Pluto and Beyond at 6 p.m. or Hubble Vision at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $3–$5. Reservations are recommended. Downing Planetarium, 5298 N. Maple Avenue, Fresno. 278-4121

VINTAGE DAYS Families will enjoy the carnival, food and game booths, vendors, crafts, and Kids Zone. Free admission and free parking. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Fresno State University, 5241 N. Maple Avenue, Fresno. 278-2741

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

15 Saturday

FLYING INTO SPRING–TULARE

This amazing event will feature a kids zone, bounce houses, interactive photo booth, food vendors, a DJ, plus, the drone light show synchronized to musical favorites. Bring your own chairs or blankets and enjoy the show! 6–10 p.m. Tickets: $10–$20. International Agri-Center, 4500 S. Laspina Street, Tulare. 877-559-7593

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the Stockton Ports at 6:50 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

MUSIC ON MAIN–PORTERVILLE

Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening on music and dancing at this free concert at the gazebo on Main Street. 6–8 p.m. Centennial Park, 295 N. Main Street, Porterville. 784-7502

STORYTIME WITH MOTHER BRUCE Children ages 3–6 and their parents are invited for a free story and photos with Mother Bruce (the grumpy bear) at 11 a.m. at Petunia's Place, 6027 N. Palm Avenue, Fresno. 438-1561

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME–OAKHURST This musical beautifully tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world. Rated PG. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theater, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

TULARE COUNTY MUSEUM JAMBOREE–VISALIA The entire family is invited to watch performances and demonstrations, take part in hayrides, listen to live music, attend free classes, and more from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Tickets: $6. Mooney Grove Park, 27000 S. Mooney Boulevard, Visalia. 624-7326

TULARE COUNTY RENAISSANCE

FAIRE Families will enjoy jugglers, magicians, and storytellers who will perform and delight! 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Tickets: $15–$20. Plaza Park, 700 S. Plaza Street, Visalia. 686-1547

TWINKLE TWINKLE LITTLE STAR

Head to the planetarium for a showing of Perfect Little Planet at 2 p.m. or Cosmic Colors at 3:30 p.m. Tickets: $3–$5. Reservations are recommended. Downing Planetarium, 5298 N. Maple Avenue, Fresno. 278-4121

VINTAGE DAYS Families will enjoy the carnival, food and game booths, vendors, crafts, and Kids Zone. Free admission and free parking. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Fresno State University, 5241 N. Maple Avenue, Fresno. 278-2741

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

16 Sunday

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the Stockton Ports at 1:05 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE

DAME–OAKHURST This musical beautifully tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world. Rated PG. 2 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theater, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

TULARE COUNTY RENAISSANCE

FAIRE Families will enjoy jugglers, magicians, and storytellers who will perform and delight! 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tickets: $15–$20. Plaza Park, 700 S. Plaza Street, Visalia. 686-1547

VINTAGE DAYS Families will enjoy the carnival, food and game booths, vendors, crafts, and Kids Zone. Free admission and free parking. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Fresno State University, 5241 N. Maple Avenue, Fresno. 278-2741

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes at 12:05 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

21 Friday

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME–OAKHURST This musical beautifully tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world. Rated PG. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theater, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

22 Saturday

EARTH DAY FRESNO This free, outdoor festival will feature educational exhibits, kids activities, local cuisine, and more from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Fresno City College, 1101 E. University Avenue, Fresno. 442-8215

MUSIC ON MAIN–PORTERVILLE

Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening on music and dancing at this free concert at the gazebo on Main Street. 6–8 p.m. Centennial Park, 295 N. Main Street, Porterville. 784-7502

SPRING FLING ON THE KINGS–SANGER This free, family event features live music, outdoor games, food, fun, and more from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Bring your blanket or lawn chair! Food available for purchase. Lapp River House, 26210 Elwood Avenue, Sanger. 787-9500

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE

DAME–OAKHURST This musical beautifully tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world. Rated PG. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theater, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

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559-412-2505

683 E. Nees Ave Fresno,CA 93720 FresnoCa@tutoringcenter.com

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23 Sunday

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME–OAKHURST This musical beautifully tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world. Rated PG. 2 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theater, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

25 Tuesday

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the San Jose Giants at 11:05 a.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

RIVERDANCE: 25TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW Drawing on Irish traditions, the combined talents of the performers propel Irish dancing and music into the present day, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures in an innovative and exciting blend of dance, music, and song. 7 p.m. Tickets: $45–$85. William Saroyan Theatre, 700 M Street, Fresno. 621-8760

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Lake Elsinore Storm at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

26 Wednesday

CLOVIS RODEO Enjoy all the fun at the annual Rodeo! Tickets: $20–$35. PBR at 6 p.m. Clovis Rodeo Grounds, 748 Rodeo Drive, Clovis. 299-8838

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the San Jose Giants at 6:50 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Lake Elsinore Storm at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

27 Thursday

CLOVIS RODEO Enjoy all the fun at the annual Rodeo! Tickets: $20–$35. PBR at 6 p.m. with concert to follow. Clovis Rodeo Grounds, 748 Rodeo Drive, Clovis. 299-8838

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the San Jose Giants at 6:50 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Lake Elsinore Storm at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

28 Friday

CLOVIS RODEO Enjoy all the fun at the annual Rodeo! Tickets: $20–$35. PBR at 6 p.m. with concert to follow. Clovis Rodeo Grounds, 748 Rodeo Drive, Clovis. 299-8838

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the San Jose Giants at 6:50 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME–OAKHURST This musical beautifully tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world. Rated PG. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theater, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Lake Elsinore Storm at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

29 Saturday

BASS LAKE FISHING DERBY Grab your fishing gear and head to the lake for a fishing derby for the whole family with fish prized from $20 all the way up to $10,000! Tickets: $15–$25. 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Register online at basslakechamber. com in advance. Bass Lake, 642-3633

CLOVIS RODEO AND PARADE Enjoy the parade at 9:30 a.m. as it winds through Downtown Clovis. Rodeo performance at 2 p.m. Tickets: $20–$35. Clovis Rodeo Grounds, 748 Rodeo Drive, Clovis. 299-8838

DIA DE LOS NIÑOS–VISALIA Celebrate the youth in Visalia with fun, interactive games, and activities including music, a book drive, and more from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Free! Summers Park, 247 W. Ferguson Avenue, Visalia. 972-2768

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the San Jose Giants at 6:50 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE DAY Children ages 3–6 and their parents are invited for this free day of celebrating books about books starting at 11 a.m. Don’t miss the Festival of Authors from 1–3 p.m. Petunia's Place, 6027 N. Palm Avenue, Fresno. 438-1561

MUSIC ON MAIN–PORTERVILLE Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening on music and dancing at this free concert at the gazebo on Main Street. 6–8 p.m. Centennial Park, 295 N. Main Street, Porterville. 784-7502

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME–OAKHURST This musical beautifully tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world. Rated PG. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theater, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Lake Elsinore Storm at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

30 Sunday

BASS LAKE FISHING DERBY Grab your fishing gear and head to the lake for a fishing derby for the whole family with fish prized from $20 all the way up to $10,000! Tickets: $15–$25. 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Register online at basslakechamber.com in advance. Bass Lake, 642-3633

CLOVIS RODEO Enjoy all the fun at the annual Rodeo! Tickets: $20–$35. 2 p.m. Today is Tough Enough to Wear Pink Day. Clovis Rodeo Grounds, 748 Rodeo Drive, Clovis. 299-8838

FRESNO FUEGO Cheer on your Fresno Fuego as they play One Knoxville SC at 4 p.m. Tickets: $20–$75. Fresno State Soccer Stadium, 1647 E. Barstow Avenue, Fresno. 573-9323

FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat against the San Jose Giants at 1:05 p.m. Tickets: $13–$67. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320-TIXS

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME–

OAKHURST This musical beautifully tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world. Rated PG. 2 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theater, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

VISALIA RAWHIDES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Lake Elsinore Storm at 12:05 p.m. Tickets: $13 and up. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

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There's never enough room for all the fun in the Valley. Visit ccparent.com/calendar for our full calendar of local, family events! Including theater performances, farmers markets, and more! Want to submit a family-friendly event? Email

Things We Love!

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Friends: Roise Bunny GUND's first collection of ecofriendly plush toys is sourced from 100% recycled materials, fill, and sustainable packaging. This 13” bunny has a creamcolored bow and matching paw pads, with a modern design that complements any nursery. Machinewashable. $20 • Age: 0+ • GUND.com

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Try These 12 Easy Ways to Celebrate the Earth W

My First Easter Basket

Welcome, Easter Bunny! This five-piece play set is full of cute and sensory-stimulating activity toys like a carrot crinkle, Easter egg squeaker, chick rattle, and bunny sound toy. It also includes a 6" pastel yellow Easter basket with plenty of storage inside for extra treats! Surface-washable.

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e all know the Earth is important, but it’s easy to let the busyness of daily life push thoughts of being eco-friendly to the back burner. Being aware of the planet and making small changes is easier than you think.

Earth Day is the perfect opportunity to remind kids how to appreciate and take care of our planet. Raising earth-conscious kids has never been more important than it is today. The earth provides us with a place to call home, food, water, clothing, shelter, and even medicine. Fostering a love for our planet helps all of us live longer and healthier lives, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Start small by trying one activity a month—or go all in and try all of these fun activities with your kids today.

Plant Something: It doesn’t matter if it’s a tree, a flower, or a seed. When we grow new things, it helps the earth. Trees help replenish oxygen and keep the planet cool, flowers can help endangered species like bees, and growing your own food

helps reduce the amount of food transport needed. Plus, it can be a lot of fun to plant and grow something together as a family.

Find a Local Farmers Market: Supporting local farms and growers is a great way to keep the earth healthy and support your local community. Plus, you can find tasty new foods for your family to try.

Visit a National Park: Did you know the U.S. has 62 national parks and almost all have virtual tours? Helping your kids fall in love with these treasures will grow their appreciation for the planet.

Recycling Challenge: Teach kids to look for recycling symbols on packages and to recycle as much as possible. At the end of the week, assess how much you recycle compared to how much you throw away. Try to get your recycling output to beat your trash output.

Make a Recycled Craft: Use some of those recycled items to create something. You can think of a theme or let everyone create whatever they want. This is a great rainy-day or too-hot-day craft!

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Give It Away: Instead of tossing things you no longer want or need in the trash, have a household collection day. Once your family gathers some items, make a family trip to the local donation center or give things to another family that could use them.

Make a Birdfeeder: Gather pinecones or large sticks to use for the feeder. Cover them with a layer of peanut butter and roll in birdseed. Hang outdoors for birds to enjoy.

Get Inspired: Watch the video of young poet Amanda Gorman reciting her poem, “Earthwise.” Kids and adults will be inspired to treat our planet well.

52: In honor of the 52nd Earth Day, commit to taking 52 hikes, walks, or bike rides this year. Bonus points if you replace what might have been a car ride with a walk instead!

Just One Thing: Swap out one plastic item for a more sustainable option from your household per month. Try reusable water bottles, travel mugs, straws, shopping bags, or even glass alternatives to bulky plastic containers.

Leave No Trace: Do a little research about Leave No Trace and then have a fun family challenge. On your next outing see if you can cover your tracks and leave no trace that you were even there.

Get Outside: The best way to help kids take care of the earth is to fall in love with it. Spending time outside, enjoying the beautiful creatures and landscapes is great for fresh air and exercise as well as learning to love this great big beautiful planet we call home.

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