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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Dear Reader,
In the spirit of November, our nationally recognized month of gratitude, we at Central California Parent would like to thank you for your loyal readership. We will be entering into our 32nd year of circulation in December and it has been a wonderful journey! Over the years we have worked with many wonderful people in the community—watching many businesses thrive and grow with us. Thank you all for these wonderful, enriching years!
This month, we are proud to feature local adaptive sports programs that provide opportunities for athletes of all abilities to shine. We’re also thrilled to have an incredible adaptive athlete on the cover!
We’re also tackling a common parenting dilemma: Should you help your kids with their homework? Discover insights into finding the right balance between guiding your child and fostering their independence, so you can support their academic journey without doing the work for them.
With the school year in full swing, many of you have had the chance to meet with your child’s teacher. If your child could use a little extra support to boost their grade or stay on track, our Tutoring Directory is the perfect resource.
Plus, as always, our calendar of family-friendly events is here to keep your November full of fun. We hope this issue brings you valuable resources and inspiration as we head into the season of gratitude and togetherness.
Erika Bullis
ShortStuff
News You Can Use
Families Spending 13% More Time Together Compared to 2018
Spending time with family is universally cherished as one of life's profound, yet fundamental joys. Backyard Oasis conducted a survey of 3,000 families to determine how much quality time they spend together each week.
The survey revealed that the average family spends just 6 hours and 17 minutes of quality time together each week. While that might sound like just enough time to binge-watch a couple of episodes of your favorite show, the good news is that, compared to a similar study in 2018, families are spending almost half an hour more per week together—that's a 13% increase compared to six years ago.
There were notable geographical variations. North Dakota families spend 8 hours and 30 minutes together each week, an increase of almost 100%! On the other hand, families in West Virginia spend the least amount of time together, averaging just 4 hours and 30 minutes of quality time each week.
Backyard Oasis found other notable statistics:
• Meal Times: Families typically sit together for meals four times per week.
• Popular Activities: Watching TV or movies is the top family activity, chosen by 41% of respondents.
• Activity Preferences: Other favored activities include board/video games (17%), traveling/day trips (15%), outdoor activities (13%), and cooking/baking together (13%).
• Planning Challenges: Almost half of the families find planning the most difficult, with 15% struggling to coordinate meals and 14% finding sports activities challenging.
• Technology Use: 12% of families always allow phones at the dinner table, 67% sometimes allow them, and 5% ban them altogether.
California families average 5 hours and 51 minutes of quality time each week, in the study. Consider seeing if your family can beat the California average!
Celebrate National Family Literacy this Month
Since 1994, libraries, schools, and educational programs across the United States have celebrated National Family Literacy Day. Rather than celebrate family literacy for a single day, the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) recognizes the entire month of November as National Family Literacy Month! Join the celebration with NCFL’s guide to 30 Days of Families Learning Together. This fun guide provides a month worth of family literacy activities and practices designed to inspire family memories rooted in imagining, playing, and learning together. Visit 30days.familieslearning.org to view the guide. Celebrate with your family this month, and publicize the work that you are doing— share your National Family Literacy Month activities on social media with the hashtag #NationalFamilyLiteracyMonth.
Halloween Candy Buy-Back
Willow Dental Group is partnering with Move America Forward to host their 11th annual Halloween Candy Buy-Back! Immediately following Halloween, trick-or-treaters can bring their (unopened, non-powder) candy to Willow Dental Group and receive $2 per pound, up to 5 pounds.
Kids will also enjoy the letter writing station where they can write and draw on Thank You letters to be sent along with the candy. All candy collected will be sent to Move America Forward, a nonprofit organization that sends care packages to U.S. Service Members and local first responders.
Bring your candy to Willow Dental Group (6753 N. Willow Avenue, Fresno) on November 1st and 4th from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. If you have any questions visit willowdentalgroup.com or call 434-1088.
Some Shorter Stuff
Meet our Cover Kid, Reed! Reed is 8 years old. He loves to read, learn, go to the library, and visit the family ranch in Sanger. He wants to be a scientist or teacher when he grows up. He is part of Valley Children's Hospital Adaptive Sports Program. He loves participating in their various programs like rock climbing, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair soccer, adaptive ice hockey, and adaptive skiing. He has also taken an interest in theater, singing, and playing the piano. If he had to eat one thing everyday for the rest of his life, it would be burritos!
FREE Entrance Day at National Parks! Explore Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, and Kings Canyon National Park free of charge as the National Park Service celebrates Veterans Day. The entrance free day is November 11th. Visit nps.gov before planning a visit to check for potential site closures.
American Education Week is November 18th–22nd. Take a few minutes to share with your child’s teacher how much you appreciate their time and dedication to your child’s education during this week. Recognize their commitment to helping children learn and achieve.
Free Literary Adventures for Kids! one main book every few days, which it then builds bookinspired activities around. Each story is reviewed (as relayed) by Rosie, with added insight from Mom. Each feature comes with complementary resources like printables, craft videos, and bookinspired play! Start your literacy adventure today!
Win it Wednesday! Every Wednesday, Fresno County Public Library gives away a free book to a Fresno County resident! For a chance to win, just fill out the form online. Drawings run from Wednesdays through 11:59 p.m. on Sundays. Winners are announced on Mondays. Visit information.
Make Kindness the Norm. November 13th is World Kindness Day and this month is a great time to make kindness the norm! Head to randomactsofkindness.org educator ideas, and more.
Weekly Giveaways! Be sure to stay connected with Central California Parent at ccparent.com for a chance to win cool prizes every week! Last month we gave away meal kits, parenting products, tasty snacks, and more! Also, watch our website and social media platforms @ccparent for the introduction of our annual 12 Days of Giveaways! You won't want to miss this family-favorite promotion!
November 18th is National Adoption Day. unprecedented number of courts across the country will open their doors to finalize the adoptions of hundreds of children from foster care. Celebrate and honor families who adopt! Visit nationaladoptionday.org to learn more.
HealthWatch
An Update on your Family’s Health and Welfare
Exercise During Pregnancy May Protect Baby Against Asthma
A new study shows that regular exercise during pregnancy may reduce a child's risk of developing asthma by nearly half. Researchers from the University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio University Hospital, and the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare analyzed data from nearly 1,000 mother-child pairs, tracking them from pregnancy until the child was seven years old.
Previous research has shown that exercise during pregnancy benefits both mother and baby, including improved lung function in newborns. This study, however, is the first to link maternal exercise to a reduced risk of asthma in children.
Importantly, this protective effect was independent of other factors like maternal weight, stress, or environmental influences. "Our findings strongly suggest that maternal exercise has a direct, positive impact on the fetus and the child’s later health," says lead researcher Emma-Reetta Musakka.
Exercise during pregnancy promotes fetal breathing movements
and lung development, which may explain the reduced asthma risk. Dr. Pirkka Kirjavainen, another lead researcher, notes that this benefit is as significant as reducing asthma risk by avoiding cigarette smoke exposure.
Interestingly, exercising more than three times per week did not further lower the asthma risk, though additional research is needed to explore how the intensity and amount of exercise may influence these outcomes. The World Health Organization recommends pregnant women engage in about 2.5 hours of moderate exercise weekly.
“These findings are encouraging,” says Kirjavainen, “as they show mothers can positively impact their child’s health through moderate exercise.”
These findings were recently published in MED. Musakka et al., Maternal exercise during pregnancy is associated with reduced risk of asthma in the child: A prospective birth cohort study, Med (2024).
How To Have A Nourished Postpartum Journey
Nutrition is vital for postpartum recovery, helping your body heal, rebuilding tissue, and supporting breast milk production. Proper nourishment aids in your recovery and ensures your baby receives the best start through breastfeeding.
Continuing with a prenatal multivitamin for at least six months postpartum (or throughout breastfeeding) is recommended. This ensures you receive essential nutrients such as choline, iodine, and vitamins A, C, D, E, and B, and vitamins like folate and B12, which are crucial for both you and your baby. Despite increased nutritional needs postpartum, many women tend to have a lower quality diet during breastfeeding than during pregnancy. Here are essential steps to nourish yourself (and baby) during the fourth trimester:
Step 1: Rebalance: Ensure you're consuming enough to support recovery and breast milk production. Prioritize protein for wound healing and energy, with sources like seafood, meats, poultry, and dairy. Carbohydrates are essential for recovery and hormone balance—opt for vegetables and grains like quinoa. Healthy fats are vital for hormone production and provide essential vitamins, with avocados, fatty fish, and nuts as excellent sources.
Step 2: Replenish: Focus on key nutrients to aid recovery and support breastfeeding. Choline supports your baby’s brain development—eggs, peanuts, and some multivitamins are good sources. Iodine is essential for hormone production and your baby’s growth; seaweed, dairy, and some multivitamins provide necessary iodine. Iron is crucial to replenish stores lost during delivery— liver, lentils, and iron supplements are beneficial. Omega-3 fatty
acids support your mood and your baby’s brain development; fish, walnuts, and fish oil are recommended. Staying hydrated is also essential for milk production and digestion.
Step 3: Rebuild: Support your body’s recovery and hormone balance with glycine and collagen for tissue repair, found in bone broth and collagen powders. Vitamin C aids wound healing— include citrus fruits and bell peppers in your diet. Zinc helps form new tissue, with seeds and canned oysters being excellent sources. Fiber helps prevent constipation, easing the strain on healing tissues—lentils and kiwis are good options.
–Ayla
Barmmer, MS, RD, Founder, CEO, FullWell
Taking care of yourself postpartum is crucial and that’s why author Ayla Barmmer is currently aboard “Barb, the Breast Express” on Pumpspotting’s Feel Better, Feed Better tour to educate new parents around the United States about the importance of a nourished postpartum journey. By replenishing your body’s nutrients, you support your recovery and give your baby the best start through breastfeeding. FullWell offers evidencebased, OB-GYN-recommended supplements to support your journey. Enter to win this bundle including Women's Prenatal Multivitamin + Women's Fish Oil bundle, Women's Prenatal Multivitamin with Lemon, Iron Bump, and Nourished Nerves. Email your first name, last name, city of residence, and phone number to promotions@ccparent.com with the subject line, "FullWell" by November 30th.
Pass the Turkey, Not the Food Poisoning
California Poison Control (CPCS) wants to make sure your Thanksgiving meal this year is memorable for good reasons, not bad ones—like having an uninvited “guest” who joins the festivities and sends everyone to the emergency room to be treated for food poisoning. For the elderly, children, pregnant women, and people suffering from compromised immune systems, food poisoning can be severe and sometimes fatal.
Foodborne illnesses—or food poisoning—occur when food is eaten that has been contaminated with disease-causing germs, such as bacteria, parasites, or viruses. Food poisoning generally causes stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea and usually appears within 4–12 hours after eating or drinking contaminated food or drink.
According to the CDC, the resultant bout of unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms from food poisoning leads to an estimated 1 in 6 people (or 48 million) getting sick, 128,000 being hospitalized, and 3,000 dying from foodborne diseases every year.
“Thanksgiving is a prime time for foodborne illnesses because many people don’t properly cook, store, and reheat their Thanksgiving feasts,” says Rais Vohra, Medical Director for the Fresno/Madera Division of CPCS. “Food poisoning is extremely preventable. By following simple handling, cooking, and storage suggestions, people can stay healthy and enjoy the holidays.”
To avoid food poisoning this Thanksgiving, as well as throughout the year, Dr. Vohra offers these 8 safety tips:
1. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially in between handling foods.
2. Be sure to wash counters, cutting boards, and utensils in between recipes with soap and hot water or a sanitizer. You want to avoid cross-contamination; this is especially critical if you are cutting raw meat or leafy greens, or are chopping fruits or vegetables that will be served raw.
3. Know how to treat the turkey.
• Fresh turkeys should be refrigerated immediately.
• Thaw frozen turkeys in the refrigerator; never leave on the counter at room temperature. Allow it enough time to thaw (24 hours of thaw time per five pounds of turkey). As the bird thaws, water will accumulate, so keep the bird in a highwalled pan and do not let the water touch any other food. To be safe, keep it on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator.
• Do not rinse a turkey as that spreads salmonella.
• Cook the turkey and stuffing thoroughly. Use a food thermometer to make sure both reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
4. Bring gravy made from scratch to a full boil before serving.
5. Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under cool, running water and use a produce brush to remove surface dirt.
6. Keep cold food like salads, gelatin molds, and salad dressing
refrigerated at 35 degrees F until just before
7. Purchase pasteurized eggs to use in recipes that call for raw eggs. Storebought cookie dough and eggnog should be safe. Remember do not eat raw dough or batter, it can make you sick.
8. Handle leftovers properly.
• Once dinner is over, refrigerate the leftovers promptly. Food is not safe to eat if it has been sitting out for two hours or more.
• After taking the remaining meat off the bird, store in a shallow container in the refrigerator. Don’t put an entire carcass into the refrigerator; it won’t cool down quickly enough.
• Cooked turkey and other leftovers can be safely kept in the refrigerator for three to four days. After that, the risk of food poisoning increases. Freeze leftovers to store them for a longer period.
• Reheat all leftovers to at least 165 degrees F before serving or eating.
–California Poison Control
Local Adaptive Sports
Empowering Through Play
For children of all abilities, sports can be a powerful way to build confidence, develop skills, and have fun. In the Central Valley, several organizations are making it possible for kids with disabilities to experience the joy of sports in their own unique way. This month, we're proud to feature adaptive athlete Reed, from Valley Children's Hospital Adaptive Sports program, on the cover. In this article, we’ll spotlight five local adaptive sports programs that are helping kids thrive, both on and off the court.
Valley Children’s Hospital Adaptive Sports Program
The Valley Children’s Hospital Adaptive Sports Program (VCHASP) offers free recreational and athletic activities for individuals with disabilities. It supports those with physical impairments such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, spinal cord injuries, and amputations. For over 10 years, the program has relied entirely on donations, equipment, and the expertise of volunteers. Through activities like water and snow skiing, track and field, rock climbing, kayaking, wheelchair basketball, and tennis, the VCHASP utilizes regional resources to provide participants with fun, athletic experiences.
The program offers a unique opportunity for kids and teens with similar physical disabilities to come together and increase their social interaction. These programs help boost self-esteem, encourage a healthy lifestyle, help combat the obesity epidemic, encourage support networks, decrease risk of fragility fractures in this high-risk population, and increase independence. Parents of participants have the opportunity to connect with other parents, finding support, encouragement, and friendship. Visit valleychildrens.org/adaptive-sports for upcoming events.
ESYN (Exceptional Sports for Youth with Needs)
ESYN (Exceptional Sports for Youth with Needs) is a non-profit organization, in partnership with Central Valley Resource Center. Their purpose is to involve youth and adults with special needs in sports and activities. They tailor events so that anyone can participate, make friends, and be a part of a team with their peers. It also allows the families to come together in a warm atmosphere where they can find support.
ESYN was founded back in 2016. Their vision was to create a program that would allow kids and adults to participate in physical activities, holiday celebrations, and fun—all in a safe environment. They started with a small bowling group in Selma, and are now in their eighth year. Annually events include indoor soccer, an Easter egg hunt and barbecue, indoor bowling, a Halloween carnival and raffle, and Breakfast with Santa. They have collaborated with Challenger League Baseball through Selma Little League, SpiritHorse Connections, Project Surf Camp, and more.
Events are little to no cost and scholarships are available for residents of Selma and Kingsburg, as well as some families that are in need. Visit esyn-selma.com for more information.
The Central California Adaptive Sports Center
The Central California Adaptive Sports Center (CCASC) is a non-profit organization located in Shaver Lake that provides yearround outdoor adventures to those with cognitive and/or physical disabilities. CCASC's instructors specialize in tailoring outdoor activities to the abilities of each participant.
Activities include mountain biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, fly-fishing, spin cast fishing, rock climbing, mountaineering, hiking, camping, sit-skiing, stand-up skiing, stand-up snowboarding, snow biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing .
If you are interested in participating, complete the online registration and a CCASC staff member will reach out. Currently, programs are free to individuals registered with the Central Valley Regional Center, veterans with disabilities, and those with spinal cord injuries. Other grants and scholarships may apply.
If you'd like to get involved, CCASC is in need of fundraising support, event support, office assistance, instructors, and more. Visit centralcaladaptive.org for more information.
The Adapted Athlete
The Adapted Athlete offers a wide range of adaptive sports and activities for individuals with disabilities, including soccer, basketball, football, sports clinics, group fitness classes, private training, and more. Their programs primarily serve athletes ages 10 and older, with events for all ages throughout the year. Their mission is to build confidence and foster social connections by integrating athletes into the community. Whether it’s on the field or in the gym, participants gain skills, friendships, and a sense of belonging in a supportive environment. Thanks to grants, fundraising, and local partnerships, many of the programs are available at low or no cost. If you’re a parent looking for opportunities for your child, or a family interested in supporting adaptive sports, visit theadaptedathlete.org or email theadaptedathlete@gmail.com.
The Core 3 Method
Core3 was created in response to a growing need for adaptive sports, evolving to meet the diverse requirements of its participants. Its philosophy is simple: treat every individual like family—the kind of family you truly like and love! Each participant is unique, and the program tailors its approach to fit their diagnosis, preferences, triggers, and, most importantly, what brings them joy.
Participants now join local bowling and basketball leagues, attend high school and college games regularly, and are greeted by many of the top athletes in the community. Visit core3methodonline.com to learn more.
The vision behind the facility was to unite people from all walks of life, regardless of background or ability, under one roof. Health, wellness, and laughter are at the heart of the program, but it goes beyond that, aiming to bridge the gap in understanding special needs within the broader community. By teaming up with local athletes, the program fosters inclusion and builds connections. Many of these athletes initially had little knowledge of conditions like autism or Down syndrome. However, through working closely with participants, they’ve developed a deeper understanding and empathy.
Should You Help Your Kids With Their Homework?
Here is a scenario most parents can relate to: it’s late afternoon and your children come home from school exhausted and weighed down by school bags full of homework. What do you do: Insist they do their homework or cut them some slack? Sit down to help them with their homework, or encourage them to do it on their own?
The answer to the first question is a resounding “Yes! Make sure that your children do their homework." The best available evidence shows that the more conscientious children are about doing their homework, the better they do academically. They retain more factual information, understand the material better, and even get higher grades. More generally, research shows that by doing their homework on a consistent basis, children develop good study habits and skills, learn how to plan and manage their time, and become self-directed and selfdisciplined.
When it comes to the second question, “It depends.” In the most comprehensive summary of the scientific literature to date, researchers from Duke University concluded that whether or not parents should help their children with their homework depends on the grade level of the children, how knowledgeable
parents are about the subject matter of the homework, and how parents go about helping their children with it.
Before you sit down with your children to help them with their homework, you should consider their age. Sounds cryptic? Surprising as it may seem, researchers have consistently found that homework assistance is beneficial for children in elementary and high school, but not for middle-school-aged children. So if your children are in middle school, you might be better off letting them do their homework on their own.
Why? Researchers believe that parental assistance with homework for children in elementary school helps because they are young and impressionable, and your help is about more than just completing the homework—you are also teaching them how to study in the first place. Erika Patall, the lead author of the research summary, says, “Homework is an especially good opportunity for parents to help young kids develop self-regulatory skills, by modeling study strategies and helping students set goals and make plans for completing homework.” Also, since their homework is still simple and straightforward, as a parent, you are unlikely to make any mistakes when you help out.
The situation is quite different when it comes to high-school-aged students.
Here, researchers speculate that your involvement adds value because you are only likely to help out when you have particular expertise to share. When you know little or nothing about the subject matter of their homework, you are more likely to let your children do it on their own. As Judith Locke, a clinical psychologist at Queensland University of Technology in Australia succinctly puts it, “Parental assistance with homework should slowly reduce as a child gets older.” Why, then, would it be detrimental for you to sit down with your middleschoolers to help them out with their homework? Here, researchers think that the issue is their specific developmental stage. As budding teenagers caught between childhood and adulthood, middle-school-aged children have a strong need for autonomy and are likely to resist any effort on your part to interfere in their affairs. As Erika Patall says, “It’s probably because it’s a time when kids are trying to be independent...Even if a parent is effective at helping a child develop skills, there’s a psychological barrier.”
As the father of a 14-year-old son who is about to enter high school, I recognize these behaviors from my own experiences. When my son was in elementary school,
Continued on page 18
by Tanni Haas, Ph.D.
A Special Advertising Section
Tutoring Directory
Now that you have had the opportunity to conference with your child’s teacher, you may find your child needs a boost to improve their grade, or help to stay on grade level in a specific subject area. Here is a listing of some of the best tutors, education, and learning centers available!
Confidence Builders Tutoring LLC
Clovis (559) 647-2267
I am a credentialed teacher with over 30 years of experience. I've helped hundreds of students to become proficient in reading and math. I will do the same for your student in grades pre-K through 6. I teach writing from pre-K through college. Online or in person. Give me a call today!
Cullinan Education Center
Fresno (559) 43-LEARN
Thirty-four years helping students close achievement gaps through one-on-one specialized instruction in reading, writing, and spelling using explicit multisensory Orton Gillingham methodology with an emphasis on decoding, fluency and comprehension. Tutoring is also available in basic math through trigonometry and advanced writing and grammar. Call today to schedule a FREE consultation 559435-3276. Visit our website at www.cullinaneducation.com
Inclusive Kids In-Home Tutoring Services
Fresno/Clovis (559) 272-0777
Inclusive Kids is offering in-home tutoring services for reading and math. Our highly trained reading specialist is Orton Gillingham trained and our math tutor is a current math teacher and has her PhD in mathematics. We specialize in supporting children with various needs, including dyslexia, ADHD, autism, learning disabilities and more. For more information and to sign up, visit www.inclusive-kids.com/academic-tutoring.
Mathnasium
Fresno (559) 449-0104
Whether your child is behind in math and struggling in school, or ahead in math and bored, Mathnasium can help with a customized learning plan and convenient scheduling. Mathnasium provides face-to-face, one-on-one math instruction with a learning plan custom tailored to your child's needs. Call for a free assessment 559-449-0104 or visit us at http://www.mathnasium.com/northfresno
TutorPi-Elena Diestelkamp
Fresno/Clovis (559) 706-6305
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24, 2019
ALL Valley Dancers are invited to audition for the 2019 Community Production of The Nutcracker
I am a credentialed teacher who offers personalized tutoring in Mathematics from Basic to High School. I offer in-person or online options for helping your child to succeed with the goal of improving their understanding and grades. www.tutorpi.com
Things We Love!
We love the insulated liner that can keep food hot for up to 2 hours—without power!
Enjoy hot and healthy meals on the go. This lunch box features a plug-in design with a powerful heat source that can heat refrigerated food, cook rice, and steam vegetables. The movable divider easily accommodates different foods. The durable, leakproof shell, with odor-resistant liner, makes UVI the smart and on-the-go choice.
$99.99 • uvilunchbox.com
We love all the cute styles, including sneakers, boots, sandals, and more!
Sugar Plum
Showcasing an array of gift baskets suitable for every occasion, Sugar Plum is renowned for its ability to customize baskets to meet customers' preferences, including corporate chocolate gifts, and largequantity orders. You'll find a variety of fruits, nuts, chocolates, pretzels, and more!
$10+ • sugar-plum.com
We love that there are gifts for occasions from Hanukkah and Advent to Birthdays and Get Well Soon!
How to Nurture Your Baby's Stress
By Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum, PhD
Babies can experience stress for all kinds of reasons. Stress can happen when babies have a physical need for feeding, hydration, temperature regulation, discomfort, or pain. Stress can also happen when babies have an emotional need, like feeling lonely, scared, angry, sad, disappointed, or frustrated. Sometimes you’ll know why your baby is stressed, and often you won’t—and that’s okay! When our babies are experiencing stress, they need to borrow our mature brain to return to a safe regulated state. The way we respond is always important. They need us to respond with our supportive presence and lend our brains regardless of the source of stress.
As adults, we have all the brain parts to sense a threat, mount a stress response, and regulate ourselves back to a safe, regulated state. Babies only have the brain parts to sense a threat and mount a stress response. They don’t have the brain parts for selfregulation, they can’t lower their stress on their own. They need you!
Amazingly, when you nurture your baby’s stress, you not only help them recover into a regulated state, you also build all of the brain parts in their stress system that contribute to lifelong mental health.
What does it look like when your baby is feeling stressed?
When your baby feels stress or negative emotions, it will be reflected in their behavior. Every baby will have their own behaviors or cues, you’ll need to observe your baby to learn. Some babies will show early stress cues and some babies with more reactive temperaments will show more late stress cues. It’s ideal to respond when you first notice your baby is experiencing stress.
• Early Stress Cues: whimpering, lower-intensity crying, withdrawing from social interaction, staring, and low movement
• Late Stress Cues: screaming, loud crying, irregular breathing, face turning red, arched back, and flailing.
How can you help lower your babies stress curve?
Every baby has different preferences for what is most regulating when they are feeling stress. Here are some strategies to try with
your baby. Keep in mind, some babies like combinations of these strategies, for example, to be held while signing a song.
• Physical touch: chest-to-chest and skin-to-skin holding, rubbing their back, and touching their hair
• Feeding: breast and bottle feeding
• Movement: walking, dancing, swaying, and bouncing with them in your arms or in a carrier
• Singing or speaking: singing, speaking softly, and repetitive, low-tone sounds
• Nature: spending time outside
• Visuals: showing repetitive visuals like a ceiling fan
It is a challenge to be responsive both day and night. However, when you understand what your baby’s stress looks like and how to lower their stress curve, those early days can become much more peaceful.
HAVE A KID WITH A BRIGHT FUTURE? CHECK OUT THE THOUSANDS OF TOYS WE HAVE TO OFFER
Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum, PhD is a neuroscientist, doula, mother and author of The Nurture Revolution: Grow your Baby’s Brain and Transform Their Mental Health Through the Art of Nurtured Parenting (available at major bookstores nationwide). For over 15 years, in academic neuroscience laboratories, Dr. Kirshenbaum studied how genetics and experience shape the brain, nervous system, and body to influence lifelong mental and physical health. She is well-versed on why infancy is a once in a lifetime opportunity to build a baby's lifelong mental health and rewire parents' mental health at the same time.
She has been interviewed on Goop, Mayim Bialik's the Bialik Breakdown, Good Day Chicago, Daytime Chicago, and many more. Her book has been endorsed by A-list celebrities including Hilary Swank, Mayim Bialik, and Uma Thurman. Visit nurture-neuroscience.com to learn more.
Want to win this groundbreaking book? Email your first name, last name, city of residence, and phone number to promotions@ccparent.com with the subject line, "The Nurture Revolution" by November 30th.
Come visit our toy experts
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NovemberCalendar
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 and to prioritize free, family events. 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 Friday
FRESNO MONSTERS Cheer on your Fresno Monsters as they take on the Ontario Jr. Reign at 6 p.m. Tickets: $14–$17. Gateway Ice Center, 2473 N. Marks Avenue, Fresno. 549-4849
2 Saturday
B&N STORYTIME Families are invited to this free storytime featuring a different picture book each week at 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 7849 N. Blackstone Avenue, Fresno. 437-0484
DAY OF THE DEAD CEREMONY
Enjoy an evening of sound therapy, live art, face painting, food, a drum circle, and more. Free entry. Visalia Public Cemetery, 1300 W. Goshen Avenue, Visalia. 734-6181
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS Enjoy dancing, mariachi, Catrinas, drumming, and more from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Hanford Mall, 1675 W. Lacey Boulevard, Hanford. 997-3838
DIY KIDS WORKSHOPS Join for a free workshop where kids can make a Pumpkin Tic-Tac-Toe from 9 a.m.–12 p.m. While supplies last. Visit homedepot.com/workshops to register in advance and find your local Home Depot. Home Depot. 294-9600 or 431-9860
FAMILY SCAVENGER HUNT Compete in a family scavenger hunt as you look for tokens hidden along the San Joaquin River. The first group to finish wins a 2-hour canoe rental! $10 per group, 2–6 participants. 9–11 a.m. River Center, 11605 Old Friant Road, Fresno. 248-8480
FIRST SATURDAYS Nurture scientific imaginations, build confidence, and encourage testing, tinkering, creating, and wonder today for only $1! 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Fresno Discovery Center, 1944 N. Winery Avenue, Fresno. 251-5533
FRESNO MONSTERS Cheer on your Fresno Monsters as they take on the Ontario Jr. Reign at 5 p.m. Tickets: $14–$17. Gateway Ice Center, 2473 N. Marks Avenue, Fresno. 549-4849
HOMETOWN HEROES Show your Hometown Heroes some appreciation today and enjoy interactive booths, displays, raffles, and more at this free event! 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Downtown Visalia, Main Street, Visalia. 732-7737
KIDS CLUB Enjoy this free opportunity for kids to learn in a fun, interactive setting. Focusing on sustainability, 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
MAYA CARES Families are invited to join for a sensory-friendly movie today at 10:30 a.m. Entry is free for guests with special needs and companion tickets are $6. Maya Cinemas, 3090 E. Campus Pointe Drive, Fresno. 549-0005
POMEGRANATE, FRUIT, & NUT FESTIVAL It’s all about the pomegranate’s today with arts, crafts, food, vendors, family fun, music, kids zone, and more from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Plus, don't miss the Pom-Con! Free! Madera District Fairgrounds, 1850 W. Cleveland Avenue, Madera. 673-3563
SANGER VETERANS DAY PARADE
Join for the 13th annual parade which kicks off at 11:11 a.m. Downtown Sanger. 875-4575
STAR PARTY Observe planets, stars, galaxies, and nebulae while learning about the night sky from the Central Valley Astronomers at dusk. Free! Eastman Lake, 32175 Road 29, Raymond. 288-2096
6 Wednesday
FAMILY LOTERÍA NIGHT Families can strengthen literacy skills through Lotería, reading, sharing, and more! 7–8 p.m. This program is for first-timers and is held over Zoom. Visit fresnolibrary.libcal.com to register. 600-7323
ROBOTICS STEAM WORKSHOP
Join the Buchanan Bird Brains for book reading, fun learning activities, and a robot demonstration! Designed for ages 6–11. Registration is required. 5–6 p.m. Clovis Regional Library, 1155 Fifth Street, Clovis. 600-9531
8 Friday
MOVIES IN THE PARK Bring your chairs and blankets for a free showing of Inside Out 2 at 5:30 p.m. Sunset Park, 5743 W. Lisendra Drive, Visalia. 713-4300
SIDEWALK ASTRONOMY Observe planets, stars, galaxies, and nebulae while learning about the night sky from the Central Valley Astronomers at dusk. Free! River Park, 71 E. Via La Plata, Fresno. 288-2094
9 Saturday
B&N STORYTIME Families are invited to this free storytime featuring a different picture book each week at 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 7849 N. Blackstone Avenue, Fresno. 437-0484
Win tickets to Central California Ballet's The Nutcracker!
The Lively Arts Foundation is proud to present Central California Ballet’s celebrated The Nutcracker at the William Saroyan Theatre. This version preserves the best-loved elements of the traditional storyline—from the first-act Party Scene and growing Christmas Tree through the classical Snow Scene, Marie’s journey through the Land of Sweets and the Grand Pas de Deux of the Finale. This holiday classic is based on the E.T.A. Hoffman fairytale, an intriguing combination of magic and childhood imagination, sure to entertain the entire family! Central California Ballet’s The Nutcracker, an original adaptation, can be seen on December 14th and 15th at 2 p.m. Plus, don't miss the Sugar Plum Party after both shows!
Central California Parent is giving away two family four-packs of tickets for the performance on Sunday, December 15th at 2 p.m. to some lucky readers! To qualify for our free random drawing, send a postcard with your name, address, phone, and email by November 30th to Central California Parent: Nutcracker, 7638 N. Ingram Avenue, Suite 101, Fresno, CA 93711. Only one entry per family, please. Even if you are not one of our lucky winners, you can still enjoy the ballet. Tickets range from $38–$80 and are available through TicketMaster.com
KEARNEY PARK RENAISSANCE FAIR
Come in plain clothes or in your best Medieval gear! Enjoy battles, the marketplace, and grub! 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Parking: $5. Kearney Park, 6725 W. Kearney Boulevard, Fresno. 916-223-6725
KIDS ZONE School-aged kids can create a turkey centerpiece from 11 a.m.–12 p.m. for free! JCPenney, Fashion Fair, 555 E. Shaw, Fresno. JCPenney, 851 W. Olive Avenue, Merced. 559-224-8330 and 209-723-3981
15
Friday
STORYTIME WITH SUPERSTARS
Families are invited to join for a storytime with Fresno County Superstars and Community Helpers as they share their favorite books and songs. 10:30–11 a.m. Clovis Regional Library, 1155 Fifth Street, Clovis. 600-9531
16 Saturday
and grub! 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18. Parking: $5. Kearney Park, 6725 W. Kearney Boulevard, Fresno. 916-223-6725
Book by Thomas Meehan
11 Monday
FRESNO VETERANS DAY PARADE
Join in honoring all veterans today for this annual celebration from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Downtown, begins in front of Fresno City Hall, 2600 Fresno Street, Fresno. 840-7182
LEMOORE VETERANS DAY PARADE
"Heroes Welcome" This 11th annual parade celebrates local veterans at 6 p.m. Downtown Lemoore. 381-2104
MERCED VETERANS DAY PARADE
Join in honoring all who have served at 11 a.m. at this annual event. Parade at 12 p.m. Bob Hart Square, 510 W. Main Street, Merced. 209-385-7588
Lowe's. 436-6266
Presented on Broadway by Mike Nichols Directed by
VETERANS DAY PANCAKE BREAKFAST The community is invited for a Veterans Day breakfast from 8–10 a.m. Breakfast is free for Veterans. For non-Veterans, a $5 donation is suggested. Tesoro Viejo Town Center, 4150 Town Center
13 Wednesday
FAMILY LOTERÍA NIGHT Families can strengthen literacy skills through Lotería, reading, sharing, and more! 7–8 p.m. This program is for first-timers and is held over Zoom. Visit fresnolibrary.libcal.com to register. 600-7323
FALL FOR HEALTH Head to the 3rd annual Fall for Health event featuring family fun, free food, health resources, prize giveaways, and more. Presented by the BLACK Wellness and Prosperity Center. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Saint Rest Baptist Church, 1550 E. Chester Riggins Avenue, Fresno. 767-1756
MAYA CARES Families are invited to join for a sensory-friendly movie today at 10:30 a.m. Entry is free for guests with special needs and companion tickets are $6. Maya Cinemas, 3090 E. Campus Pointe Drive, Fresno. 549-0005
VALLEY DEAF FESTIVAL Families will enjoy this 33rd annual festival—Center of Deaf Wizardry: Chambers of QuadWizards—featuring food, raffles, performances, vendors, and kids activities from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Tickets: $5–$10, ages 0–3 are free. Fresno Fairgrounds, 1121 S. Chance Avenue, Fresno. 225-3323
20 Wednesday
DECEMBER 6-15,
FAMILY LOTERÍA NIGHT Families can strengthen literacy skills through Lotería, reading, sharing, and more! 7–8 p.m. This program is for first-timers and is held over Zoom. Visit fresnolibrary.libcal.com to register. 600-7323
21 Thursday
BAND SPECTACULAR This fall tradition is back! Enjoy an evening of music from Fresno State music students. 7:30–10 p.m. Tickets: $10–$15, available online only. Fresno State Concert Hall, 2380 E. Keats Avenue, Fresno. 278-2654
December 6, 7, 13 & 14 – 7:30pm
December 7, 8, 14 & 15 – 2pm
Early Childhood Preschool Directory
Brighten Academy Preschool 2016 Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 299-8100 2 to 6 years 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Brighten Academy Preschool 1825 Austin Ave., Clovis (559) 294-1310
Brighten Academy Preschool 290 N. Villa Ave., Clovis (559) 298-7880
Brighten Academy Preschool
5646 N. Figarden Dr., Fresno (559) 492-1238
CrossCity Christian Early Education Center 2777 E. Nees Ave., Clovis (559) 299-8484
2 to 6 years 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Assessment-driven specialized enrichment focusing on the development of academic, social, emotional, gross/fine motor, and problem solving skills.
Assessment-driven specialized enrichment focusing on the development of academic, social, emotional, gross/fine motor, and problem solving skills.
Assessment-driven specialized enrichment focusing on the development of academic, social, emotional, gross/fine motor, and problem solving skills.
Assessment-driven specialized enrichment focusing on the development of academic, social, emotional, gross/fine motor, and problem solving skills. 85
Half-day and extended programs, loving Christian teachers. Curriculum art, music, literature, science, math, reading readiness, Christian nurture. Reasonable tuition.
ONE ENCHANTED EVENING–CLOVIS Step back in time for Old Town Clovis’ annual kick-off of the holiday season. Enjoy carolers, free horse-drawn carriage rides, cocoa, and a truly unique festive atmosphere. 5–8 p.m. Old Town Clovis, 298-5774
23 Saturday
B&N STORYTIME Families are invited to this free storytime featuring a different picture book each week at 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 7849 N. Blackstone Avenue, Fresno. 437-0484
MAYA CARES Families are invited to join for a sensory-friendly movie today at 10:30 a.m. Entry is free for guests with special needs and companion tickets are $6. Maya Cinemas, 3090 E. Campus Pointe Drive, Fresno. 549-0005
STAR PARTY Observe planets, stars, galaxies, and nebulae while learning about the night sky from the Central Valley Astronomers at dusk. Free! Eastman Lake, 32175 Road 29, Raymond. 288-2096
29 Friday
FRESNO MONSTERS Cheer on your Fresno Monsters as they take on the San Diego Sabers at 6 p.m. Tickets: $14–$17. Gateway Ice Center, 2473 N. Marks Avenue, Fresno. 549-4849
HANFORD CHRISTMAS PARADE Bring the family to enjoy this annual parade beginning at 6 p.m. This year's theme is, "Season of Lights." Downtown, Hanford. 582-0483
JULGRANSFEST CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Carols, lights, dancing, and festive decor abounds in the Swedish Village. 5–7 p.m. Downtown, Draper Street, Kingsburg. 897-1111
30 Saturday
B&N STORYTIME Families are invited to this free storytime featuring a different picture book each week at 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 7849 N. Blackstone Avenue, Fresno. 437-0484
FRESNO MONSTERS Cheer on your Fresno Monsters as they take on the San Diego Sabers at 5 p.m. Tickets: $14–$17. Gateway Ice Center, 2473 N. Marks Avenue, Fresno. 549-4849
MAYA CARES Families are invited to join for a sensory-friendly movie today at 10:30 a.m. Entry is free for guests with special needs and companion tickets are $6. Maya Cinemas, 3090 E. Campus Pointe Drive, Fresno. 549-0005
STAR PARTY Observe planets, stars, galaxies, and nebulae while learning about the night sky from the Central Valley Astronomers at dusk. Free! Eastman Lake, 32175 Road 29, Raymond. 288-2096
N.W. corner of Bullard & Palm 6027 N. Palm Avenue, Fresno, CA 93704 559-438-1561 • petuniasbooks.com
Preschool Program
Lessons & Classes Professional Services
he absolutely loved when we did his homework together; it was a great occasion for father-son bonding. Over time, he developed some impressive study habits and skills that have served him well in middle school, and which I hope will continue in high school. Although we still share many great moments together, it is safe to say that they rarely involve his homework. In middle school he has undergone a noticeable change; now, he wants to take care of everything himself, especially his homework. Any interference by me or my wife is generally met with indifference or outright opposition, and is definitely unsolicited and unwanted.
Before deciding whether or not to help your children with their homework, you should also consider whether or not you are qualified to do so. Researchers have discovered that the more parents know about the subject matter, the more children learn from getting help with it. This makes intuitive sense. You may even teach your children how to use different ways to accomplish certain tasks. However, when you know little or nothing about the topic, your children are likely to get frustrated by your inability to help out, and you might even make mistakes on their homework. Researchers have found that, in general, parents are better able to help their children with reading and writing than with math homework. They attribute that to the fact that when it comes to reading and writing, most parents are simply better at it. The opposite is the case with respect to math. Here, parents often know less and are less up-to-date with the latest instructional strategies—a parent’s old instructional strategies often conflict with those contemporary methods taught at school.
I experience this with my son. While he has always been very receptive to my suggestions when I have helped him edit his book reviews, essays, and other types of writing, I cannot count how many times our math homework sessions have ended with him saying in frustration, “That’s not how the teacher explained it in class. It’s not how we are supposed to do it!”
Helping when you can, and where appropriate, is important, but it is even more important that you stay within the proper bounds of involvement. One of the most consistent findings is that children benefit the most when parents support them in their own efforts to do the homework rather than help them out every step of the way. Linda Cameron, a homework researcher at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education in Canada, says, "Be at the elbow, but don’t hold the pen.”
There is nothing wrong with working very closely with your elementary-school-aged children on their homework since this will help them develop great study habits and skills. Yet, the most effective form of involvement overall is simply to set clear expectations and guidelines, and then to reward good behavior when those expectations and guidelines are met.
One important aspect is to set clear rules for when, where, and how your children’s homework is supposed to be completed. As Erika Patall puts it, “Be as specific as possible about what the procedures are every day.” She argues that, “students who have a clearly defined routine around homework—a set time, a set place, and a set way to complete homework—are more likely to believe they can overcome challenges while doing homework, take more responsibility for learning, and ultimately do better in school.”
Research indicates that when parents engage in proper rule-setting, children spend more time on their homework, use that time more effectively, and most importantly, internalize those rules so that they become routine, good habits over time.
Whatever you ultimately decide to do, don’t despair if once in a while, you overstep your bounds. Eva Pomerantz, a homework researcher at the University of Illinois, UrbanaChampaign, and a mother of two, occasionally finds herself taking over the process of doing homework from her children even though she knows better. She admits, "I do that because I’m naturally a controlling person... Then I always have to remember that the child is the one who needs to be in the chair doing the strategizing.”
Adult Foster Care
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.
