September 2024

Enter to win tickets to the Big Fresno Fair!

ccparent.com

September 2024 FREE

Taking the Lead in SPORTSMANSHIP

Creating Grandparent Bonds

Need Help Paying for Childcare?

Who Qualifies?

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

“Eligibility”

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 Qualify?

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.

www.ssifresno.org (559) 230-2030 Helping Parent and Child Grow Since 1975 5090 N West Ave

❖

Fresno CA 93711

2 • Central California Parent • September 2024

❖

(559) 230-2030

❖

info@ssifresno.org

InsideSeptember September 2024 • Volume 31 • Number 10

Features

8 9 10 16

Taking the Lead in Sportsmanship Teach them what it means to be a good sport

by Kimberly Blaker

Enrichment Directory Find activities around the Valley for after the school bell rings Parenting Teens & Building Bonds Tips straight from a teenager

by Mercedes Korngut

Create Lasting Bonds with Grandparents 8 ways to bond through books

by Scott Sollers

Departments

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.

Staff & Contributors

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Erika Bullis DISTRIBUTION Diane Melton Arnie Manchester GRAPHIC PRODUCTION Erika Bullis PHOTOGRAPHY Mary H Photography WRITERS Kimberly Blaker Mercedes Korngut Scott Sollers

Contact Us

EDITORIAL DISTRIBUTION SALES & MARKETING CALENDAR PROMOTIONS

ccparent@ccparent.com distribution@ccparent.com marketing@ccparent.com calendar@ccparent.com promotions@ccparent.com

Advertising

4 Dear Reader 4 Short Stuff News you can use 6 Health Watch An update on your family’s health and welfare 7 Things We Love 12 Calendar of Events 15 Early Childhood Preschool Directory 17 Marketplace

Advertising and design are available. Deadline is the 10th of the month preceding the publication. Call (559) 435-1409 or email marketing@ccparent.com for more information.

Distribution & Subscriptions Central California Parent Magazine is available free at hundreds of locations including libraries, schools, doctor’s offices, retail stores, and more. Delivery subscriptions are available for $20 per year. Send Name and Address, with payment to: Subscriptions, Central California Parent, 7638 N. Ingram, Suite #101, Fresno, CA 93711

Calendar Submissions Calendar submissions are free, and photos are welcome.

Descriptions, date, time, location, and cost should be submitted to calendar@ccparent.com by the 10th of the month preceding the event.

Central California Parent reserves the right to refuse any advertising for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this magazine. All editorial information and display advertising are copyrighted. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Distribution of this paper does not constitute an endorsement of information, products, or services. Neither the advertisers nor the publisher will be responsible for misinformation, typographical errors, omissions, etc. herein contained.

Follow us for exclusive social giveaways!

Central California Parent • 7638 N. Ingram Avenue, Suite #101, Fresno, CA 93711 • (559) 435-1409 • ccparent.com

September 2024 • Central California Parent • 3

Dear Reader, As the crisp days of September usher us into a new season, we’re reminded of the delicate balance we, as parents, strive to maintain between guiding our children and letting them grow on their own. In this issue, we’re focusing on fostering strong, healthy connections within our families— whether it's on the field, during those complex teenage years, or across generations with our elders.

How we handle competition, for example, is more than just a lesson in winning and losing.

It's about teaching resilience, respect, and responsibility.

Modeling these behaviors on the sidelines sets the stage for our children to embrace the true meaning of sportsmanship, turning every game into an opportunity to build character.

As our children grow into their teenage years, maintaining those close bonds becomes more challenging, yet more essential.

Connecting with your teen may feel difficult at times, but even in those moments of distance, your love, patience, and guidance are irreplaceable. A little understanding and a lot of heart go a long way in keeping those bonds strong.

And as we celebrate National Grandparents Day this month, let’s not forget the invaluable connections that span generations. Whether you’re reading a favorite book together or sharing stories from the past, these moments create lasting memories and a sense of belonging that strengthens the family ties we all cherish.

Plus, don't miss our calendar of family events, Enrichment Directory, and two great giveaways!

Erika Bullis

ShortStuff News You Can Use

Get Your Kids Flying with Oxford Owl As parents, you want the very best for your children, but finding the right advice and resources can be challenging. What’s more, the things children are expected to learn and the way they are taught have probably changed a lot since you were at school—which can make navigating the education system tricky!

Oxford Owl for Home is written specially for parents and caretakers by leading experts in education, and can help you be as well-informed as you can be, making sure you have everything you need to support your child on their journey through school.

From learning to read, to tackling tricky math problems, from the very first day at school, to the big move up to secondary, Oxford Owl provides all the important information you need, when you need it.

Support for Parents • Reading: Advice, ideas, and resources to support your child’s reading and comprehension.

• Mathematics: Get to know key topics covered in primary school, with lots of practice activities.

• At school: Your year-by-year guide to curriculum, including the tests your child will take.

• Blog: Practical tips and everyday learning ideas for busy parents.

Activities for Kids • eBook library: Over 100 free eBooks for children ages 3–11.

• Storyteller videos: Exciting stories to capture imaginations, told by professional storytellers.

• Math games and activities: Fun ways to develop math skills.

• Creative writing: Unleash your child’s creativity with ideas, activities, and author tips.

• Coloring: Printable coloring sheets featuring character favorites!

Visit oxfordowl.co.uk for all these great resources and so much more!

Nominate a Librarian Has a librarian made a difference in your life or gone above and beyond to serve your community? The I Love My Librarian Award invites library users to recognize the accomplishments of exceptional public, school, college, community college, or university librarians. Each year, up to 10 librarians are honored at a ceremony held in their honor and receive a $5,000 cash award.

Visit ilovelibraries.org/love-my-librarian and nominate your librarian by September 30th!

4 • Central California Parent • September 2024

Height—Nature’s Early Warning Signal Growth Awareness Week is September 15th– 21st. Growth is influenced by many factors such as heredity, genetic or congenital factors, illness and medications, nutrition, hormones, and psychosocial environment. Hundreds of medical issues can affect your child's growth.

In fact, an abnormal growth pattern is often the earliest indication of an underlying medical condition. It is important to track your child's growth at home at least twice annually.

During Growth Awareness Week, The MAGIC Foundation (Major Aspects of Growth in Children) is working to draw attention to the issue of children’s growth. Head to magicfoundation.org for growth charts, tips on measuring your child, resources, and more.

Some Shorter Stuff September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Each day, 47 families in the United States will hear the words, “your child has cancer.” Childhood cancer may seem too big or too overwhelming to solve. However, researchers are working hard every day to find better treatments and cures for kids fighting cancer—and they’re making progress. Visit childrenscancer.org to learn how you can support the cause and families near you.

Ready, Set, Go! It’s National Preparedness Month and kids can help their families get ready for an emergency at ready.gov/kids through fun, non-scary activities. For instance, plan a family scavenger hunt by dividing up the family emergency supply list! Games and tips make organizing and planning a snap.

High School Seniors Can Win a $1,000 College Scholarship through the AFSA Scholarship Program. Visit afsascholarship.org/high-school-contest to learn more. Deadline is January 1st!

National YoungArts Competition. YoungArts is one of the only organizations that supports artists across 10 disciplines at all stages of development. Artists ages 15–18, are encouraged to apply in the discipline(s) of their choice. Winners are offered a lifetime of artistic support and ongoing connection with an extraordinarily robust network of peers and mentors. Apply for a chance to receive: cash awards of up to $10,000, mentorship from guest artists, national recognition, or a lifetime of support. Deadline is October 17th. Visit youngarts.org/apply to learn more.

Meet our Cover Kid, Káree! Káree is a sweet, funny 5-year-old and is starting kindergarten this year! Káree loves to play football and has started his first year of tackle football. He enjoys hanging out with his cousins and his family. Káree’s favorite thing to do is to hang out with his papa on the weekends. When he gets older, he wants to be a professional football player for the Minnesota Vikings!

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

FREE Entrance Day at National Parks! Explore Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks free of charge as the National Park Service celebrates National Public Lands Day. The entrance free day is September 28th. Call ahead to confirm that the area you plan to visit is open.

Take the Rail Safety Pledge with Your Kids. Operation Lifesaver, the national non-profit rail safety education organization, launched online rail safety pledges for kids and adults. Help your kids learn to make safe choices around railroad tracks and trains by visiting oli.org and signing the pledge today.

Mary H Photography (559) 930-2077

maryhp44@gmail.com

September 2024 • Central California Parent • 5

HealthWatch An Update on your Family’s Health and Welfare

4 Things Parents and Youth Athletes Should Know About Concussions Despite the attention drawn to the topic of concussions over the past decade, it can be difficult to find readily available answers about what parents and young athletes should do after sustaining a concussion.

The Katsuyama family started 2023 without a single concussion, even after quite a few hockey and lacrosse seasons. That changed when Rylan, 11, received two concussions within five months.

One week after Rylan’s second concussion, his brother, Brandon, 13, was illegally checked from behind in a hockey game and sustained his first concussion. After clearing protocol in four weeks, he suffered a second concussion six weeks later.

Both boys endured months of headaches, missed school, dizziness, nausea, and the added difficulty of navigating a significant injury others couldn’t see.

Their father, Brad Katsuyama, sought out expert opinions to guide his family’s decisions and shares some acquired knowledge to help parents and athletes.

Brain injuries should be diagnosed by a concussion specialist.

There is no X-ray, MRI, or CT scan that can show the extent of most concussion-related injuries—which makes diagnosing them subjective. Symptoms can also appear days after a hit. For example, Brandon was cleared by the emergency room after his first concussion, but two days later failed every test administered by a doctor specializing in concussions.

Rushing back to play is one of the worst mistakes you can make.

Experts consistently reinforced that coming back from a concussion too soon can significantly increase long-term brain injury risks.

There is likely no tournament, game, or tryout worth the risk. A smart example is Patrice Bergeron of the NHL’s Boston Bruins, who sat out an entire year to properly heal from a concussion.

“Patrice had four more concussions over his career, and each one was less severe than the last,” renowned concussion specialist Dr. Robert Cantu said. “That wouldn’t have happened without recovery from the first one.”

Parents and kids need to be honest about symptoms. The culture in youth sports praises toughness. Continuing to play can be viewed as a badge of honor. However, this same mentality can cause athletes to lie to parents, trainers, and coaches to get back in the game, which can greatly increase long-term risks. Conversely, the same adults can unduly influence a potentially vulnerable player back on to the field of play. Proper diagnosis requires both adults and athletes to be level-headed and honest in their assessment of concussions.

Every person and every concussion is different. One person’s history and experience with concussions seldom carries any relevance to the concussions experienced by another. For example, Katsuyama played varsity football, hockey, and rugby in high school and football in college.

“For the longest time, my definition of a ‘real’ concussion was blacking out, vomiting, or pupils dilating,” Katsuyama said. “My sons had none of those symptoms after their hits, but the severity of their injuries were far greater than anything I had experienced.”

The Katsuyamas turned to the Concussion Legacy Foundation and the Cantu Concussion Center, in addition to their local concussion specialist, to advise their path forward, which has led them to racquet sports and golf, and long-term, playing no more than one contact sport in a school year.

–Concussion Legacy Foundation, concussionfoundation.org

Free Mental Health Toolkit for California Kids The new school year can be a hard time for kids. Help your children mentally prepared for this time with the free toolkit from Crisis Text Line (CTL). In 2021, over 76,000 Californians contacted CTL while experiencing a mental health crisis.

CTL, a nonprofit that provides 24/7 mental health support via text message, launched a free Mental Health School Supplies toolkit to help students, parents, and teachers navigate back-toschool.

Resources include grounding and breathing videos, step-bystep tools to create a mental health crisis plan, tips for discussing mental health, interactive coping tools, tips, and resources that students can use year-round.

6 • Central California Parent • September 2024

Kids can text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States–24/7, free, and confidential. A live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from a secure, online platform.

The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help your child move from a hot moment to a cool calm.

Visit crisistextline.org/back-to-school-essentials with your kids to learn more. Toolkits are catered to and available for elementary, middle, and high school students.

–Crisis Text Line

Things We Love!

y easy to We love that it's not onl two layers ng turi fea e— use, but saf of protection!

Perfectly Satined Perfectly Satined hats combine style and hair protection, offering beanies, bucket hats, and baseball caps in inclusive sizes from medium to extra-large. Crafted with the natural hair community in mind, these hats ensure a comfortable fit and chic look for everyone. Perfect for parents who want fashion and function!$19.95+ • satinedlined.com

Chicco Fit360 ClearTex Rotating Convertible Car Seat This seat offers unmatched ease and safety with its 360° onehand rotation, making buckling and unbuckling effortless. It grows with your child, from newborn to toddler, and features flame retardantfree materials. With a Quick-Secure Harness System and DuoGuard® protection, it's the ultimate car seat for peace of mind. $399.99 • chiccousa.com

We love the satin lining for ultimate hair protection and care!

great at blocking These headphones are especially love we se— noi nt bie out am them for travel!

Puro Sound Labs: BT2200-Plus Volume Limited Kids’ Bluetooth Headphones These headphones are perfect for back-toschool, combining safety and style. With an 85dB volume limit, they protect kids' hearing while delivering studio-quality sound. The durable, comfortable design features noise isolation, interchangeable ear cups, and both Bluetooth and wired options—ideal for young listeners. $99 • purosound.com

September 2024 • Central California Parent • 7

by Kimberly Blaker

Taking the Lead in Sportsmanship How to Support Your Kids and Teach What It Means to Be a Good Sport

W

e've all seen it—the parent standing on the sidelines criticizing the decisions made by coaches and officials, yelling at their own child for making a mistake, hurling rude remarks at the opposing team, or always placing blame. In some cases, these parents have even gotten into brawls.

What’s in winning and losing?

There's no question that winning is rewarding and boosts self-esteem. However, wellmeaning parents are sometimes so caught up in the competition that they lose sight of the real value of sports. Winning is not just being the victor of a game. It's becoming the best all-around person one can be. Children who carry this with them will be the ones to prevail.

What’s in losing? Plenty. It teaches lessons in perseverance, humility, respect, and acceptance of defeat.

What does losing mean? It means to come out second best. Defeat is not a failure. A child or parent who walks away satisfied, whether victorious or not, is the real winner.

What else do sports offer? Opportunities to build friendships, lessons on the

8 • Central California Parent • September 2024

importance of rules, fairness and honesty, anger management and leadership skills, and how to work as a team. In short, sports teach valuable life principles that will be of immense value in the years to come.

“

A Special Advertising Section

Winning is not just being the

”

victor of a game. It’s becoming the best all-around person one can be.

Tips for supporting your child:

Make the most of your child’s involvement by showing your support and what it means to be a good sport.

1

Avoid pointing out your child's mistakes or criticizing them. This only serves to make kids feel worse. Your child is most likely already aware of the error.

2

Practice with your child, but don’t push. Offer pointers and demonstrate proper techniques, but allow mistakes to go without frequent correction.

3 Praise your child’s efforts.

Allow coaches and officials to do their jobs. If you feel an

was made, remember it's a tough job, and we all make 4 error mistakes. Realize it'll probably come out in the wash.

Attend games and practices so you can cheer on your child

5 and their team.

Don’t put down the other team’s players, and be courteous

6 and respectful of the other team’s coaches and fans.

7

When talking with your child about a game, point out specific displays of sportsmanship that took place to show the difference between being a good sport and a poor one.

8

If your child isn’t enjoying the sport, let them try another sport next time. Some children will thrive with team sports. Other children might find individual sports more fun.

9

Set up a sportsmanship recognition program for your child’s team offering Certificates of Outstanding Sportsmanship to players who set examples of being a good sport. If a child is struggling with sportsmanship, look for opportunities to help them brush up on their skills, and reward accordingly as reinforcement.

and show interest in team members whose 10 Acknowledge abilities don’t stand out.

11 Don’t place blame when the team loses.

Read books about sportsmanship. Ask your local librarian

12 for recommendations.

Children spend from six to eight hours a day in school.

While school has a significant influence upon them, a child’s after-school hours are as valuable as their inschool time. They continue to learn after the bell rings.

Cullinan Education Center Fresno (559) 43-LEARN

Thirty-four 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 basic math through trigonometry and advanced writing and grammar. Call today to schedule a FREE consultation. Visit our website at www.cullinaneducation.com.

Fresno Fencing Club Fresno (559) 224‑1910

Year round fencing classes for children ages 7 to adult. Kids learn self‑discipline, coordination, fitness and social skills.

Classes fill quickly! Call today for free registration! www.fresno‑fencing.com

Gymnastics Beat Fresno (559) 271-9400

Established in 2003, Gymnastics Beat is a leading gymnastics, cheer, and NinjaZone training facility in the Central Valley, now accepting fall sign-ups for classes! We offer a wide variety of programs for children of all ages and ability levels. Gymnastics Beat has something for everyone, from preschool/parent & me classes to team gymnastics, recreation & competitive Pyramid All-Star Cheerleading, and the nationally recognized 'Ninja Zone.' We also offer adult classes and Fundamental Cheer for kids, which are filling up fast! Additionally, we offer tumbling and cheer clinics, with more exciting programs on the way.

Thank you, Central Valley, for supporting us for over 21 years!

Call us or stop by for a tour at 559-271-9400. Visit www.gymnasticsbeat.com

TutorPi-Elena Diestelkamp Fresno/Clovis (559) 706-6305

I am a credential teacher who offers personalized tutoring in Mathematics from basic to High School. I will help your child to succeed with the goal of improving understanding and grades. www.tutorpi.com

September 2024 • Central California Parent • 9

Parenting Teens & Building Bonds

T

eenagers. A word that might bring forth feelings and thoughts of stress, growing pains, and mood swings. As a teen myself, I know firsthand that as much as we need to find ourselves, you as parents are so important in guiding us, as well as showing us your love and support. It is true that as teens it may be difficult to connect with us, but below I share my top tips on how you, as a parent, can build your bond with your teenager.

Show Interest In Their Interests Teen years are pivotal as we are discovering our interests, values, goals, and opinions. Be an active part of that discovery!

In creating a connection, ask your teen how you can participate in their interests.

Together, listen to a podcast on the subject and discuss it, take a pottery class, watch a sporting event, or play a video game.

Through engaging in activities that your teen wants to try, you can build your bond by sharing this part of their self-discovery with them.

As you take some time out of your day to pursue what your teen enjoys, you encourage and validate their journey of selfexploration and interest!

Create Time To Do Things Together Most families have busy schedules. Even if you are unable to actively participate in the interests of your teen, you can still find time to create a connection.

Here is a list of some of my favorite timefriendly activities to do as a teenager with my mom or dad: • Go for a walk or a bike ride • Go to a golf range • Play basketball outside • Attend a yoga class • Make dinner together or bake a dessert

by Mercedes Korngut

10 • Central California Parent • September 2024

• Follow an online craft tutorial and make a craft together • Read a book (my choice!) and discuss the events—like a mini book club • Play video games • Volunteer at an organization that I am passionate about

Shared Meals This is a simple, yet impactful way to build a bond. Mealtimes are an opportunity to reconnect and relax over a delicious plate of food. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, make time—at least a few times a week—to eat with your teen.

In fact, a Harvard study has established that meals free of distraction, meaning with no phones, sports games, or TVs on in the background, lead to higher levels of satisfaction and lower levels of stress.

According to this study, these benefits are especially associated with conversation around the table.

Below are some of my favorite conversation starters for family meals. These are wonderful for the entire family because, as parents, you will learn more about your teen—any maybe your teen will learn more about you through your responses.

• What is one exciting thing that happened today?

• What are you looking forward to this week? www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com • What brought you a small bit of happiness today—it doesn’t have www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com to be major!

N w p ncaag N aetiw enPtastients AtttsiicP ep ttctiiin g iiie tttgssiseP • What has been your biggest obstacle today and how can we help Now AcN Ne op w AN eeegn pw en w PN w Agccw ccccN eeo w cNeo tNinA tccN iw ee N oopw w Ao eA ppcw nenPA gpgacctoN N w ePete nainnw in NPnP egawtttN nattsients you solve it?

CMP Northwest CMPPediatric Northwest Pediatric CMP Peachwood CMP Peachwo By encouraging a positive conversation with your teen, you encourage them to shift their mindset towards a positive trajectory. Rather than constantly worrying about the hardships of being a teenager, you motivate and help your teen focus on the good moments of the day. Furthermore, you also open lines of communication, making it easier for your teen to share stressors with you down the road.

CMP CMP Northwest Pediatric CMP CMPNorthwest NorthwestPediatric Pediatric CMPPeachwood PeachwoodCMP Peachwood CMP Northwest Pediatric CMP Peachwood CMP NorthwestCMP CMP CMP Pediatric Northwest Northwest Pediatric Pediatric Northwest Pediatric CMP Peachwood CMP CMP Peachwood Peachwood CMP Peachwood CMP Northwest Pediatric Medical Group Medical Group CMPMedical Peachwood Medical Group, Pediatrics Medical Group, Pe Medical Medical Group MedicalGroup Group Medical MedicalGroup, Group,Pediatrics PediatricsGroup, Pediatrics Medical Group Medical Group, Pediatrics Medical Group Medical Medical Group Group Medical Group Medical Group, Pediatrics Medical Medical Group, Group, Pediatrics Pediatrics Medical Group, 7355 N. N.Group Palm7355 Ave.N. #100, Fresno Palm Ave. #100, Fresno Pediatrics Medical 275 Clovis W. Herndon Herndon Ave., Clovis Ave 275 W. Herndon Medical Group, Pediatrics 7355 N. Palm 275 Herndon 7355 Palm Ave. #100, Fresno 275 W. Ave., Clovis 7355 N. PalmAve. Ave.#100, #100,Fresno Fresno 275W. W. HerndonAve., Ave., Clovis 7355 N. Palm Ave. #100, Fresno 275 W. Herndon Ave., Clovis 7355 N. Palm Ave.7355 7355 7355 #100, N. N. Fresno Palm Palm Ave. Ave. #100, #100, Fresno Fresno N. Palm Ave. #100, Fresno 275 W. Herndon Ave., 275 275 W. W. Clovis Herndon Herndon Ave., Ave., Clovis Clovis 275 W. Herndon Ave., Clovis (559) 271-6302 (559) 271-6302 7355 N. Palm Ave. #100, Fresno (559) 324-6200 275 W. Herndon(559) Ave., 324-6200 Clovis (559) 324-620 (559) (559) (559)271-6302 271-6302 (559) 271-6302 (559)324-6200 324-6200 (559) 271-6302 (559) 324-6200 (559) 271-6302 (559) (559) (559) 271-6302 271-6302 271-6302 (559) (559) 324-6200 324-6200 324-6200 (559) 271-6302 (559) 324-6200 (559) (559) 324-6200

Marina Alper, MD Board Certified

www.cmpmedical.com www.cmpmedical.com

Vivian S.MD Hernandez, MD S. Hernandez, Vivian MD Prabjot “Minta” Singh, MD “Minta” Singh Prabjot Marina Alper, MD MD John Kim, MD “Minta” Marina Alper, JohnSingh, Kim, MD Vivian S. S. Hernandez, Prabjot MD Marina Alper, MD John MD Vivian S. Kim, Hernandez, “Minta” Singh, MD Marina Alper, MD MD John Kim, MD “Minta” Vivian Hernandez, MD Prabjot “Minta” Singh, MDPrabjot Marina Alper, MD John Kim, MD MDBoard Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Vivian S.Hernandez, Hernandez, Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Prabjot Singh, MD Marina Alper, MD John Kim, MD Vivian S.Alper, Hernandez, MD Vivian Vivian S. S. Hernandez, Hernandez, MD MD Vivian S. Prabjot Singh, Prabjot Prabjot “Minta” “Minta” Singh, Singh, MD MD Board Certified Prabjot “Minta” Singh, MD Board Certified Marina Marina Alper, Alper, MD MD John Kim, MDS.MD John John Kim, Kim, MD MD Marina MD John Kim, MD Board Certified Board Certified Vivian Hernandez, MD Prabjot “Minta” Singh, MDCertified Marina Alper, MD John“Minta” Kim, MD Board Certified Board Board Certified BoardMD Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified BoardCertified CertifiedBoard Certified Board Certified Board Certified Certified Board Board Certified Certified Board Certified Board Board Certified Certified Board Certified Board Board Certified Certified Board Certified Board Board Certified Board Certified Board CertifiedBoard Board Certified

N Noow w AAcccceeppttiinngg N Neew w PPaattiieennttss

CMP Pediatrics CMP Pediatrics CMP CMP Pediatric CMP Peachwood CMP Pediatrics CMPPediatrics Pediatrics CMP Pediatrics CMPNorthwest Northwest Pediatric CMP Peachwood CMP Pediatrics CMP CMP Pediatrics Pediatrics CMP Pediatrics 7085 N. Whitney Ave., Suite 101, Fresno 7085 N. Whitney Ave., Suite 101, Fresno CMP Pediatrics 7085 N. Whitney Ave., Suite 101, Fresno Medical Group 7085 N. Whitney Ave., Suite 101, Fresno Medical Group, Pediatrics 7085 N. Whitney Ave., Suite 101, Fresno 7085N. N.Whitney Whitney Ave.,Suite Suite 101, Fresno Medical Group7085 Medical Group, Pediatrics 7085 N. Whitney 7085 7085 Ave., N. N. Suite Whitney Whitney 101, Ave., Ave., Suite Suite 101, 101, Fresno Fresno Ave., 101, Fresno (559) 437-7338 (559) 437-7338 7085 N.Fresno Whitney Ave., Suite 101, Fresno (559) 437-7338 7355 N. Palm Ave. #100, Fresno (559) 437-7338 275 W. Herndon Ave., Clovis (559) 437-7338 (559)437-7338 437-7338 7355 N. Palm Ave.(559) #100, 437-7338 Fresno 275 W. Herndon Ave., Clovis (559) (559) 437-7338 437-7338 (559) (559) 437-7338 (559) (559) (559)271-6302 271-6302 (559)324-6200 324-6200

Harry Jameson, Jameson, MD MD Judi Krogstad, Judi Krogstad, MD DOMD Mercedes Chapa,MD MD Mercedes Chapa, MD MDMDHarry Veronica Ramirez, Veronica Quinton Ramirez,Young, MD DOQuinto Quinton Young, Harry Jameson, Judi Krogstad, Mercedes Chapa, MD Veronica Ramirez, MD Young, DO Board Harry Jameson, MDPrabjot Judi Krogstad, MD Mercedes Chapa, MD Veronica Ramirez, MDBoardQuinton Quinton Young,DO DO Harry Jameson, Judi Krogstad, MD Mercedes Chapa, MD Veronica Ramirez, MDBoard Vivian S. Hernandez, MD “Minta” Singh, MD Marina Alper, MD John Kim,Board MDJudi Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Certified Quinton Young, Harry Jameson, MD Board Certified Certified Judi Krogstad, MD BoardCertified Certified Certified Mercedes Chapa, MD Veronica Ramirez, MD Quinton Young, DO Quinton Quinton Young, Young, DO DO Young, Quinton DO Harry Jameson, MD Harry Harry Jameson, Jameson, MD MD Board Harry Jameson, MD Judi Krogstad, MD Judi Krogstad, Krogstad, MD MD Board Certified Judi Krogstad, MD Board Certified Mercedes Chapa, MD Mercedes Mercedes Chapa, Chapa, MD Mercedes Chapa, MD Board Certified Vivian S. Hernandez, MD Veronica Ramirez, MD Veronica Veronica Ramirez, Ramirez, MD MD Prabjot “Minta” Singh, MD Veronica Ramirez, MD Board Certified Marina Alper, MD John Kim, MD Quinton DO Harry Jameson, MD Judi Krogstad, MD Mercedes Chapa, MD Veronica Ramirez, MD Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified BoardYoung, Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Board Certified Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Board Certified Certified Board Certified Board Board Certified Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Board Certified Certified Certified Board Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified BoardCertified Certified Board Certified

CMP CMPPediatrics Pediatrics 7085 7085N. N.Whitney WhitneyAve., Ave.,Suite Suite101, 101,Fresno Fresno (559) 437-7338 (559) 437-7338

Active Listening

Mercedes Chapa, MD Mercedes Chapa, MD Board Certified Board Certified

This brings me to my fourth tip for building parent-teen connection, active listening. When your teen brings up a concern, something that went well, or something new that they’ve tried, simply listen. Let them feel safe and confident for confiding in you, and avoid jumping in with your own story of how things were when you were young.

Active listening is the act of listening just to listen and understand what is being shared, rather than listening to respond immediately.

Active listening promotes trust, helps you better understand where your teen is coming from, and allows you to formulate a better, more holistic response after they have finished sharing their thoughts and feelings. A quick tip for active listening is to make eye contact and not be distracted by a phone or other device.

On a personal note, as a 16-year-old who has struggled with my happiness, I’ve become extremely close with my mom. She’s my best friend and my number one supporter. We’ve built the habit of connecting daily and finding more happiness together. Visit smallbitsofhappiness.com for activities, hacks, and advice.

Harry Jameson, MD Harry BoardJameson, CertifiedMD Board Certified

Judi Krogstad, MD Judi Krogstad, Board CertifiedMD Board Certified

Veronica Ramirez, MD Veronica Ramirez, MD Board Certified Board Certified

Quinton Young, DO Quinton Young, DO Board Certified Board Certified

ANXIETY

JOY

FEAR

EMBARRASSMENT

FRUSTRATION

SADNESS

Mental Health Services | Ages 9-17 (559) 472-3371

ascendbh.com

September 2024 • Central California Parent • 11

SeptemberCalendar 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 Sunday

$2 Summer Movies

VISALIA RAWHIDE Watch your Visalia Rawhides up at bat against the Fresno Grizzlies at 12:05 p.m. Tickets: $10–$15. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. 732-4433

2 Monday 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: $10–$60. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320‑TIXS

4 Wednesday 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: $10–$60. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320‑TIXS

5 Thursday 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: $10–$60. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320‑TIXS

GALAXY SUMMER FEST Summer Fest at Galaxy Theatres is back! Enjoy $2 showings all week! Visit website for showtimes and to purchase tickets in advance. Galaxy Theatres Tulare, 1575 Retherford Street, Tulare. Galaxy Theatres Porterville, 631 N. Indiana Street, Porterville. 888-407-9874 • August 30th–September 5th: Sing • September 6th–12th: Hotel Transylvania • September 13th–19th: Scoob!

6 Friday BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK Bring a blanket or chair for this free concert series featuring bluegrass and old-timey music. 6 p.m. to dusk. Veterans Memorial Park, 901 Fifth Street, Clovis. 696-4065 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 7:05 p.m. Tickets: $10–$60. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320‑TIXS THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst.

683-7112

7 Saturday DIY KIDS WORKSHOPS Join for a free workshop where kids can make a Field Goal Game 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 FIRST SATURDAYS Nurture scientific imaginations, build confidence, and encourage testing, tinkering, creating, and wonder today for only $1! 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Fresno Discovery Center, 1944 N. Winery Avenue, Fresno. 251-5533 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: $10–$60. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320‑TIXS 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 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 NORTH FORK CARNIVAL & CAR SHOW Families will enjoy this event featuring a carnival, car show, vendors, entertainment, and more! 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Free! North Fork Elementary, 33087 Road 228, North Fork. 676-9654

Win tickets to the Big Fresno Fair!

It’s almost time for food, family, and fun at the 2024 Big Fresno Fair on October 2nd–14th!

Come out and enjoy new attractions plus all your old favorites—exhibit buildings, carnival rides, community performers on four free stages, live horse racing, free family attractions in the Table Mountain Rancheria Park including gold panning, plus so much more like the amazing concert line-up in the Paul Paul Theater!

Save on your trip to the Fair with these discounts: $3 Off Adult Admission, $2 Off Kids/Senior/ Military Admission, Up to $7 Off Unlimited Carnival Ride Wristbands, and discounted $40 Season Passes! Visit fresnofair.com/deals to find out how to get these savings.

Central California Parent is giving away four “Family Four-Packs” to the 2024 Big Fresno Fair!

Packs includes 2 Adult Admissions, 2 Kids Admissions, and 1 Parking Pass! To be entered in our free random drawing, please send a postcard along with your name, address, phone, and email to: Central California Parent: Fresno Fair, 7638 N. Ingram, Suite 101, Fresno, CA 93711 by September 22nd.

Even if you are not one of our lucky winners, you can still enjoy the 2024 Big Fresno Fair. Mark your calendars and get to the Fair to create treasured memories for you and your family!

12 • Central California Parent • September 2024

STORYTIME AT PETUNIA'S Kids ages 3–8 are invited for stories along with puppets, music, and crafts at 11 a.m. Free!

Petunia's Place, 6027 N. Palm Avenue, Fresno. 438-1561 THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

8 Sunday 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 5:05 p.m. Tickets: $10–$60.

Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. 320‑TIXS THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 2 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

11 Wednesday TULARE COUNTY FAIR Families can enjoy carnival rides, live music, fair food, livestock, the Destruction Derby, and more!

12–10 p.m. Tickets: $3–$12. Tulare County Fair, 620 S. K Street, Tulare. 686-4707

12 Thursday RESPITE BY THE RIVER Bring your picnic dinner, blanket, and lawn chair, and relax on the Ranch House front lawn while you and your family enjoy free live music and more. 6–8 p.m. San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust, 11605 Old Friant Road, Fresno. 248-8480 TULARE COUNTY FAIR Families can enjoy carnival rides, live music, fair food, livestock, the Destruction Derby, and more!

4–10 p.m. Tickets: $3–$12. Tulare County Fair, 620 S. K Street, Tulare. 686-4707

13 Friday BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK Bring a blanket or chair for this free concert series featuring bluegrass and old-timey music. 6 p.m. to dusk. Veterans Memorial Park, 901 Fifth Street, Clovis. 696-4065 FAMILY FRIDAYS AT MORAVIA Enjoy an evening of music, the playground, and family picnics. 6–9 p.m. Tickets: $5, kids are free! Moravia Wines, 3620 N. Bishop Avenue, Fresno. 843-2140

MOVIES IN THE PARK Enjoy a free showing of A Million Miles Away at sunset.

Merced Center Rooftop Garage, 605 W. 18th Street, Merced. 209-385-6235 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 THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112 TULARE COUNTY FAIR Families can enjoy carnival rides, live music, fair food, livestock, the Destruction Derby, and more! 4 p.m.–12 a.m. Tickets: $3–$12.

Tulare County Fair, 620 S. K Street, Tulare.

686-4707

14 Saturday KIDS ZONE School-aged kids can grab a sloth door hanger kit to work on a craft 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 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 THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112 TOY TRAIN SHOW Families are invited to this 7th annual train showcase. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Tickets: $5–$8, cash only, kids 12 and under free with paid adult. American Legion Post 509, 3509 N. First Street, Fresno. 720-6828

Fall Fest Auto Swap

Sunday, September 29th Gates open 7 a.m. for shoppers | 5 a.m. for vendors Admission: $6

266-9856

www.cherryavenueauction.com

TULARE COUNTY FAIR Families can enjoy carnival rides, live music, fair food, livestock, the Destruction Derby, and more! 2 p.m.–12 a.m. Tickets: $3–$12.

Tulare County Fair, 620 S. K Street, Tulare.

686-4707

15 Sunday THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 2 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112

September 2024 • Central California Parent • 13

TOY TRAIN SHOW Families are invited to this 7th annual train showcase. 10 a.m.– 3 p.m. Tickets: $5–$8, cash only, kids 12 and under free with paid adult. American Legion Post 509, 3509 TULARE COUNTY FAIR Families can enjoy carnival rides, live music, fair food, livestock, the Destruction Derby, and more!

2–10 p.m. Tickets: $3–$12. Tulare County Fair, 620 S. K Street, Tulare. 686-4707

19 Thursday LAINEY WILSON: COUNTRY'S COOL AGAIN Lainey Wilson brings her "Country's Cool Again" tour to Fresno at 7 p.m.

Tickets: $66+ Save Mart Center, 2650 E. Shaw Ave, Fresno. 278-3400 THE SECRET GARDEN This enchanting tale is about forgiveness and renewal, all set to a magical score. Rated PG. 5 p.m. Tickets: $45+. Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre, 1226 N. Wishon Avenue, Fresno. 266-9494

20 Friday BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK Bring a blanket or chair for this free concert series featuring bluegrass and old-timey music. 6 p.m. to dusk. Veterans Memorial Park, 901 Fifth Street, Clovis. 696-4065 FRESNO GREEK FEST Opa! Come celebrate this annual event! This family-friendly event is a cultural celebration of all things Greek, you’ll be able to dance, eat Greek delicacies, shop, tour the church, and more!

4 p.m.–12 a.m. Tickets: $5–$7. St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 2219 North Orchard, Fresno. 233-0397 LIVE ON THE LAWN Enjoy free, live music at the amphitheater from 6–9 p.m.

Tesoro Viejo, 756 Treasure Hills Drive, Madera. 822-3375 THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112 THE SECRET GARDEN This enchanting tale is about forgiveness and renewal, all set to a magical score. Rated PG. 5:30 p.m. Tickets: $45+. Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre, 1226 N. Wishon Avenue, Fresno. 266-9494

21 Saturday There's never enough room in our calendar 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!

14 • Central California Parent • September 2024

BLUES & ROOTS FESTIVAL This special free event boasts live blues entertainers with great dancing and food from 5–10 p.m. Bring a blanket or a chair and sit under the stars! Civic Park, 401 N. Irwin Street, Hanford. 582-9457

CLOVIS NIGHT OUT Families are invited to this free event featuring community safety resources, a drone light show, food trucks, vendors, live music, vehicle displays, and more from 4 p.m. to dark. David McDonald Park, Temperance & Sierra Avenues, Clovis. 324-2800 CRAYFISH FESTIVAL Friends and family gather to eat crayfish and celebrate the arrival of fall. Vendors are set up on Draper Street and a kid zone is provided to keep the young ones entertained. 5–10 p.m.

Downtown, Kingsburg. 897-1111 DIY-U AT LOWE'S Bring your mini-DIYer into Lowe’s to build a harvest hayride toy at one of the select time slots for a workshop hosted by a Red Vest experts from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Reserve your space online in advance. Free! Your local Lowe's.

322-3000 FRESNO GREEK FEST Opa! Come celebrate this annual event! This family-friendly event is a cultural celebration of all things Greek, you’ll be able to dance, eat Greek delicacies, shop, tour the church, and more!

11–12 a.m. Tickets: $5–$7. St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 2219 North Orchard, Fresno. 233-0397 FRESNO SCOTTISH GATHERING & GAMES Step into a Scottish village of old with singers, dancers, storytellers, food, live battles, games, and more! 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Cost: $10–$20. Children 12 and under are free. Parking: $5, cash only. Kearney Park, 6725 W. Kearney Boulevard, Fresno.

278-7030 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 MOUNTAIN HERITAGE DAY Join the Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park as they celebrate local history. It's a free day of family fun, experiencing a taste of life in the 1800s. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park, 49777 Road 427, Oakhurst. 683-6570 STORYTIME AT PETUNIA'S Kids ages 3–8 are invited for stories along with puppets, music, and crafts at 11 a.m. Free!

Petunia's Place, 6027 N. Palm Avenue, Fresno. 438-1561 THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. 683-7112 THE SECRET GARDEN This enchanting tale is about forgiveness and renewal, all set to a magical score. Rated PG. 5:30 p.m. Tickets: $45+. Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre, 1226 N. Wishon Avenue, Fresno. 266-9494

22 Sunday FRESNO GREEK FEST Opa! Come celebrate this annual event! This family-friendly event is a cultural celebration of all things Greek, you’ll be able to dance, eat Greek delicacies, shop, tour the church, and more! 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

Tickets: $5–$7. St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 2219 North Orchard, Fresno. 233-0397 THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 2 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst.

683-7112 THE SECRET GARDEN This enchanting tale is about forgiveness and renewal, all set to a magical score. Rated PG. 11 a.m. Tickets: $45+. Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre, 1226 N. Wishon Avenue, Fresno. 266-9494

26 Thursday THE SECRET GARDEN This enchanting tale is about forgiveness and renewal, all set to a magical score. Rated PG. 5 p.m. Tickets: $45+. Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre, 1226 N. Wishon Avenue, Fresno. 266-9494

27 Friday BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK Bring a blanket or chair for this free concert series featuring bluegrass and old-timey music. 6 p.m. to dusk. Veterans Memorial Park, 901 Fifth Street, Clovis. 696-4065 FAMILY FRIDAYS AT MORAVIA Enjoy an evening of music, the playground, and family picnics. 6–9 p.m. Tickets: $5, kids are free! Moravia Wines, 3620 N. Bishop Avenue, Fresno. 843-2140 MOVIES IN THE PARK Enjoy a free showing of Coco at sunset. Bob Carpenter Park, Parsons & Silverado Avenues, Merced. 209-385-6235 THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst.

683-7112 THE SECRET GARDEN This enchanting tale is about forgiveness and renewal, all set to a magical score. Rated PG. 5:30 p.m. Tickets: $45+. Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre, 1226 N. Wishon Avenue, Fresno. 266-9494

28 Saturday CLOVIS FEST Discover hundreds of vendors spanning Old Town, enjoy family-fun, a kids zone, live performances, the Children's Business Fair, food, and more at this free event! 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Arrive before sunrise for the hot air balloon lift off! Old Town, Clovis. 299-7363 COYOTE FEST This annual event spans two days and is a “small town, old-timey, family-friendly, Americana festival” right in the heart of Gold Country! Enjoy a Coyote Howling Contest, vendors, live music, and more from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Coulterville Park, 10313 Park Lane, Coulterville.

209-878-0111

FRESNO KOI SHOW This free event features koi exhibits, vendors, food, raffles, and more from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Group Activity Area next to the Shinzen Friendship Garden. Woodward Park, 114 W. Audubon Drive, Fresno.

970-8508 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 THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 7 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst.

683-7112 THE SECRET GARDEN This enchanting tale is about forgiveness and renewal, all set to a magical score. Rated PG. 5:30 p.m. Tickets: $45+. Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre, 1226 N. Wishon Avenue, Fresno. 266-9494

29 Sunday CLOVIS FEST Discover hundreds of vendors spanning Old Town, enjoy family-fun, a kids zone, live performances, the Children's Business Fair, food, and more at this free event! 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Arrive before sunrise for the hot air balloon lift off! Old Town, Clovis. 299-7363 COYOTE FEST This annual event is a “small town, oldtimey, family-friendly, Americana festival” right in the heart of Gold Country! Enjoy a Coyote Howling Contest, vendors, live music, and more from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Coulterville Park, 10313 Park Lane, Coulterville. 209-878-0111 FRESNO KOI SHOW This free event features koi exhibits, vendors, food, raffles, and more from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. at the Group Activity Area next to the Shinzen Friendship Garden. Woodward Park, 114 W. Audubon Drive, Fresno.

970-8508 THE PRODUCERS This outrageous farce follows a fading producer and accountant who set out to produce the worst musical ever. Rated PG-13. 2 p.m. Tickets: $13–$18.

The Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst.

683-7112

Early Childhood Preschool Directory Name, Address, Phone

Ages

Hours

Size

Comments

Brighten Academy Preschool 2016 Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 299-8100

2 to 6 years

6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

92

Assessment-driven specialized enrichment focusing on the development of academic, social, emotional, gross/fine motor, and problem solving skills.

Brighten Academy Preschool 1825 Austin Ave., Clovis (559) 294-1310

2 to 6 years

6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

162

Assessment-driven specialized enrichment focusing on the development of academic, social, emotional, gross/fine motor, and problem solving skills.

Brighten Academy Preschool 290 N. Villa Ave., Clovis (559) 298-7880

2 to 6 years

6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

135

Assessment-driven specialized enrichment focusing on the development of academic, social, emotional, gross/fine motor, and problem solving skills.

Brighten Academy Preschool 5646 N. Figarden Dr., Fresno (559) 492-1238

2 to 6 years

6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

85

Assessment-driven specialized enrichment focusing on the development of academic, social, emotional, gross/fine motor, and problem solving skills.

CrossCity Christian Early Education Center 2777 E. Nees Ave., Clovis (559) 299-8484

3 to 6 years

9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

120

Half-day and extended programs, loving Christian teachers. Curriculum art, music, literature, science, math, reading readiness, Christian nurture. Reasonable tuition.

September 2024 • Central California Parent • 15

8 Ways to Create Lasting Bonds with Grandparents through Books Advice from a grandfather and award-winning author

F

inding time to bond with your grandchildren can be challenging, especially if you live far away. That’s why I’ve made it a point to make the most of our special time together in the simplest, purest form—through reading. The shared experience of reading with my grandchildren has filled me with joy and created memories that will remain with us forever.

Grandparents' Day, on September 8th, is the perfect time to start a new tradition of reading together. Here are a few creative ways to get started on your special reading journey!

Visit Little Free Libraries Take a walk with your grandchild to visit local Little Free Libraries in your neighborhood. Choose a book together.

When you are done reading it, together, put it in another Little Free Library for others.

Participate in reading reward challenges Several libraries and businesses provide incentives to children who read. Make this a fun activity with your grandchild by working with them to complete the required reading minutes, and enjoy the perks and prizes together.

Go on a storybook walk Storybook walks let young readers enjoy a story and the great outdoors, as pages from a children’s book are printed and placed in displays along a walkable path at a park, school, or neighborhood. Check with your local library for their recommendation of where to find the most current storybook walks.

Get a library card September also happens to be National Library Card Sign-Up Month, so there’s no better time to introduce your grandchild to the nostalgia of libraries. Make a plan to visit the local library together every so often to check out more books.

Make book-themed crafts Extend the fun of books beyond the pages, and make puppets of your favorite characters, bookmarks inspired by your favorite story, or dioramas that showcase a scene from a book.

Attend author readings and book signings Many bookstores love to host local authors for a read-aloud and book signing.

These events offer a special and unique opportunity for kids to get their books signed and burning questions answered.

Listen to audiobooks Audiobooks provide a wonderful shared experience to foster the love of learning while on the go! Plus, they give children the opportunity to listen to books at a higher level than they’d normally read.

by Scott Sollers

16 • Central California Parent • September 2024

Start a grandparent-grandchild book club Book clubs are the perfect way to socialize with friends while encouraging a love of reading. Round up some of your friends and their grandchildren and start planning regular meetings to discuss age-appropriate books.

CCPMarketplace Books

Education

FRESNO’S INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE BOOKS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY FROM TODDLERS TO TEENS & ADULTS

Entertainment

Children‛s Entertainment Programs Bubble Show Bubble Play Time Balloon Artistry

Independ

ent Expl oration

PUZZLES STUFFED ANIMALS PUPPETS GAMES

Come Le

arn

and Pla Sto Californne Soup Fresnyo With Us! ia St Preschoate ol Prog

N.W. corner of Bullard & Palm 6027 N. Palm Avenue, Fresno, CA 93704 559-438-1561 • petuniasbooks.com A BOOK IS A GIFT YOU CAN OPEN AGAIN AND AGAIN AND AGAIN!

Enroll You

ram

r Child To

day!

Your child must be 2.9 year Free or s old by Reduced Decemb er 2nd of cost, ba sed on fa We apply enrollmen mily size The Crea t year. and incom tiv e Curricu Choose th e. lum, a re e TIME search-b and DAY as Join us ed th and prov at works for Virtu en curricu for you: al Learnin la.

Full Day Follow CO g & Wee / Half Da VID-19 kly Pack y.

Guidelin ets CALL U es Daily S TOD

Clothing & Accessories

Come Learn & Play With Us!

Food & Drink

Stone Soup Fresno

AY! 559COME VI 224-7613 SIT US

!

California th Us State Preschool Program ay Wi EMAIL:

Pl HUGE rn and a e L Come te m ia Staol Progra n r o SAVINGS f i o Cal Presch on plorati nt Ex pende

Inde

! 1345 E. BULLDO YER_TH G LANE AO@ST , FRESNO ONESOU , CA 9371 PFRESN 0 O.ORG

resno oup F

50-90% OFF RETAIL!

S Stone

on everything you need for kids!

• Children must be 2.9 years old by December 2nd of enrollment year • Free or reduced cost, based on family size and income • We apply the Creative Curriculum, a research-based and EVENT Independ ent Expl oday! ar.

DETAILS ion ent ye dr T2nord ofatcurricula enrollm h C ilproven be VISALIA ll Your d by Dec• em a. e. 7:00am rr icul m Daily from 5:30pm co cu to in nro years ol ze and proven

FREE TICKETS

Come Le

E

arn and PChild Enroll Your la Today! up Fres y With Us Californ(559) !

224-7613 ia Stat no

d OCTOBER 4-6 mily si be 2.9 ed an Day. must d on fa ch-bas child / Half , base resear Your FRESNO ll Day d cost um, a rricul you: Fu Reduce r Cu or fo S Free orks eative t w Cr o OCTOBER18-20 at s n he T e So Packet DAY th apply

d WeITEMS TOO! eekly YOU CAN SELL IME an ng & W the T Learni Choose irtual Daily for V lines us de n ui G oi J -19 3 COVID 4-761 Follow

jbfsale.com

e Lane, Fresno Pres1345 cinfo@stonesoupfresno.org hE.oBulldog ol Prog ram

IT E VIS

TON

O@S

OM local _THA Items areCfrom : YER families — EMAIL details online.

POP UP RESALE • SIZES NEWBORN THROUGH TEENS | BOOKS | TOYS | BABY GEAR | STROLLERS + MORE!

3710

, CA 9

ESNO

E, FR 2 559-2 LLDOG LAN O.ORG @JBFVisalia DAY! N U US TO S! 1345 E. B SOUPFRES @JBFFresno E U CALL

Want to advertise in EnrollCCPMarketplace?

Your Child Tod

ay! d by Dece mberads cost, ba The Magazine for Central California FamiliesWe aporpl ReducedMarketplace 2nd of enrange from sed on fa rollm Your child

Free

must be

2.9 year s

y The Cr

eative Cu

mily size

ent year

and inco me

.

$32–$75/month—perfect for any

Choose th rriculum . , a resear e TIME and DAY ch-based Join us that work and prov for Virt en curric s for yo ual Lear u: Full Da ula. ning & W Follow CO y / Half eekly Pa VID-19 Day. ckets Guidelin es Daily

Parents Know Us! CALL U

ol

ST

budget!

Call (559) 435-1409 or 76

ODAY! 55 COME V 9-224ISIT

US! 1345 13 EMAIL: E. BULL Established 1993 • Name recognition • Highly-visible YER_TH DOG LA AO@STO NE, FRE NESOUP SNO, CA Reader-oriented • Visually-appealing • Free! email marketing@ccparent.com for FRE 93

Email marketing@ccparent.com for advertising information!

SNO.OR G

Lessons & Classes

PIANO AND FLUTE • Children and Adults • Forty Years Experience

JoAnn Denney (559) 554-5420

710

more information.

September 2024 • Central California Parent • 17

Lessons & Classes

Create a FamilyFriendly Grazing Board

Professional Services

FRESNO FENCING ACADEMY

A beautifully designed charcuterie board may feel more like a grown-up treat, but with the right ingredients, delicious grazing boards can provide fun and nutrition for the whole family.

No matter what you call it, charcuterie boards, grazing boards, and snack platters are all basically the same thing. The boards make a trendy addition to an entertaining menu, but a platter or kidfriendly board can be equally pleasing.

What you serve on a grazing board is entirely up to you. Most include a selection of meats and cheeses, and many incorporate nuts, crackers, dips, and jams. Some also incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables. Creating your own board means there really are no rules; you can add just about anything you want.

To build a successful board, keep these tips in mind:

5717 N. First Street, Fresno Classes for Girls & Boys Men & Women of all ages.

Call (559) 224-1910 or visit www.fresno-fencing.com

Choose ingredients and elements that don’t require temperature control. The idea of a grazing board is that it sits out for a while. Avoid anything that needs refrigeration, heat, or will lose its shape or flavor if it rests for an extended amount of time.

Comfortable Home, Pet Free, Smokeless Setting Ages 8 to Adult

AdultFoster Foster Care Adult Care

Select a surface large enough to hold a variety of food. It can be a simple cutting board or a cute platter. Gather up your ingredients before you begin prepping, and hold different platters over the top to gauge the best size.

Build your board around a theme to add an extra element of fun. Use Make A Difference From The Comfort Of Your Home California MENTOR is seeking loving individuals with mini cookie cutters to make fun, kidan available bedroom, to support anisadult with special California seekCalifornia MENTOR isMENTOR seeking loving individuals with friendly shapes out of cheese and meats. needs. Receive ongoing support and a generous ing loving individuals with an with special an availablemonthly bedroom, to support an adult payment ranging from $1,020-$4,500.

Be mindful of colors; a rainbow platter is vibrant and appealing, and colorful needs. Receive ongoing support and a generous available bedroom, to support Contact Tori Winter Today Make A Difference From Thefrom Comfort Of Your Home fruits and veggies offer a strong mix of monthly payment ranging $1,020-$4,500.

559.392.0527 (559) with 636-2894 Ext. needs.

5006 an adult special nutrients.

Make A Difference From The Comfort Of Your Home A California MENTOR is seeking loving individuals with Jan Casey sk a our R bout www.MentorsWanted.com Receive ongoing support and e ferra Contact Winter Today bedroom, to support an adult with Pwith rogspecial California MENTOR isTori seeking loving individuals Janlynncasey@gmail.coman available ram! l Remember it doesn’t have to be a generous monthly payment needs.

Receive ongoing support and a generous an available bedroom, to support an adult with special (559) 636-2894 Ext. 5006 learn2sewclovisca.com elaborate.

Classic favorites are all you needs.

Receive ongoing support and a generous monthly payment ranging from $1,020-$4,500. ranging from $1,020–$4,500. need. Even kid favorites like sections monthly payment ranging from $1,020-$4,500.

Ask a bou www.MentorsWanted.com Contact Tori Winter Today ouArskReabooPuurotr gReraferratl of mandarin oranges, carrot sticks, and fe m!

Contact Tori Winter Today Progra rral chocolate chips are fair game for a familySTAY CONNECTED WITH US! (559) Ext. 5006 m!

(559) 636-2894 636-2894 Ext. 5006 friendly board.

Small Classes, Graduations, Diplomas, Field Trips and SEW Much More!

Follow Central California Parent on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for weekly giveaways! @ccparent

Make A Difference From The Comfort Of Your Home

Adult Foster Care Adult Foster Care

Ask a our Re bout fe Progra rral m!

www.MentorsWanted.com www.MentorsWanted.com

18 • Central California Parent • September 2024

Visit healthyfamilyproject.com for more ideas for creating family-friendly treats.

We all want a place to call home. You can help makae trheatality for an adult with disabilities.

CCPMarketplace a reality for an adult with disabilities.

Professional Services

In our California MENTOR Family HomeProfessional Agency program, adulServices ts with

ing people like you — In our California MENTOR Family Home Agency program, adults with developmental disabilities are matched and live with carNicholas Great Family Doctor

Orme M.D.

Taco Tuesday Board • Guacamole • Salsa • Queso • Hard and soft taco shells • Ground turkey, seasoned and browned • Lettuce • Diced tomatoes • Shredded cheese • Chopped onions • Chopped peppers • Sour cream • Cilantro • Lime wedges

Family Medicine

re single,tomarrAdults ied, have developmental disabilities are matched and live with caring people like ysomeone ou — with room in your home and heart. Whether you’Infant Most Insurances Welcome Covered by California Bilingual ki d s, or ar e an empt y -nest e r , you can make a di f e r e nce as a host homeSpanish provider.

Build someone withskills room in your homeandand hearimprove t. Whether you’re singlgrades! e, married, have Now Taking kids, orwith are an emptay-nCredentialed ester, you can make a dif erence asTeacher a host home provider.

• Reading Instruction and Intervention • Math Instruction K-6 Become a host home provider with our California MENTOR Family Home Agency • Writing, Grammar, Vocabulary K-12

6183 N. Fresno St. Suite 101, Fresno

• Study Skills K-12

team and help change a life.

Become a host home provider with our California MENTOR Family Home Agency team and help change a life.

Call Michelle Barnes 559-647-2267

www.CB-Tutoring.com Weekend Breakfast Grazing Board • Hard-boiled eggs • Cooked sausage links • Mini frozen waffles, toasted • Mini frozen pancakes, toasted • Mini muffins • Yogurt • Fresh fruit • Syrup • Jelly Recipes courtesy of Healthy Family Project’s “Come Graze With Us” e-cookbook

Create a Board & Win! We want to see your family-favorite creations! Snap a picture of your grazing board and email it to promotions@ccparent.com with the subject line, "Grazing Board" by September 30th for a chance to win tickets to Fresno Chaffee Zoo. In the body of the email, please include your full name, phone number, and city of residence. Good luck!

Call for Your Humana HMO Appointment 559-432-5003 Today!

FREE ASSESSMENT

Contact Alex to learn more.

Call 559-451-0399 ex 3730 Contact Alex to learn morChange e. Change a lifea life Change a life Visit www.MentorsWanted.com Call 559-451-0399 ex 3730 BecomeBecome a host home a hostprovider home Change a lifeprovider

Open your home to a person

Open your home to a person We all want We a allplace want to a call place home. to call You home. can help You can make help that make that with disabilities. a reality for awith reality an adult for an with adult disabilities. with disabilities. disabilities. become a host home provider with become a MENTOR host home provider with In our California In our MENTOR California Family Home Family Agency Home program, Agency adults program, with adults with our California MENTOR Family Home our California MENTOR Home developmental developmental disabilities are disabilities matched are and matched liveFamily withand caring live people with caring like you people — like you — Agency program.

Visit www.MentorsWanted.com

someone with someone room in with your room homeinand your heart. home Whether and heart. you’re Whether single,you’re married, single, have married, have Agency program.

www.MentorsWanted.com

kids, or are an kids, empty-nester, or are an empty-nester, you can make you a difference can make a asdifference a host home as aprovider. host home provider.

www.MentorsWanted.com

California MENTOR Family Home Agency is a Become a host Become homeaprovider host home withprovider our California with our MENTOR California Family MENTOR HomeFamily Agency Home Agency member of the Sevita family California MENTOR Family Home Agency is a team and help team change and help a life. change a life. member of the Sevita family

Contact Alex Contact to learn Alex more. to learn more.

Call 559-451-0399 Call 559-451-0399 ex 3730 ex 3730

Visit www.MentorsWanted.com Visit www.MentorsWanted.com

No Contracts Special Event Spraying Available Guaranteed Results

FREE FAMILY E-NEWSLETTER Sign up for exclusive giveaways, valuable information between issues, and more! ccparent.com/newsletter

September 2024 • Central California Parent • 19