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
SALES & MARKETING
GRAPHIC PRODUCTION
Erika Bullis
Diane Melton
Bobby Martin
Mary Mendoza
Erika Bullis
Mary H Photography
Rebecca Hastings
Alexis Treat
EDITORIAL DISTRIBUTION
SALES & MARKETING CALENDAR PROMOTIONS
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Dear Reader,
July has arrived, and with it comes the true heart of summer—sunshine-filled days, backyard barbecues, and the endless search for ways to stay cool. Whether your family is road-tripping across the state or sticking closer to home, this issue is all about making the most of the season in a way that works for you.
If a big vacation isn’t in the cards this year, don’t worry—there’s still plenty of summer magic to be had. We’re sharing tips on how to plan a fun-filled staycation right at home, where day trips and local adventures can create lasting memories without the long drives or hotel bills.
Of course, summer fun often means water—and we’ve included important reminders to help keep your family safe in and around pools and spas. We’re also spotlighting free places around town where kids can splash, play, and beat the heat, from splash pads to community pools. If you’re still trying to fill your kids’ schedules, this month marks the final installment of our Summer Camp Directory. And don’t miss our July calendar, packed with local events including fireworks, lowcost and dive-in movies, baseball games, outdoor concerts, and more ways to soak up the season. Here’s to cool treats, warm nights, and summer memories made right at home.
Erika Bullis
ShortStuff
News You Can Use
Give the Gift of Hope, Love, and Connection
Jack’s Basket exists to eliminate bias and celebrate babies with Down syndrome by equipping providers with tools to deliver the diagnosis accurately without bias, connecting new parents to resources through their basket delivery program, and sharing powerful stories to change the narrative around Down syndrome.
A Jack's Basket is a complimentary welcome gift for the family of a baby diagnosed with Down syndrome. Baskets include baby gifts, books, resources, and the opportunity to connect with a parent raising a child with Down syndrome.
Baskets can be requested from the time of diagnosis (prenatal or at birth) up to the baby’s first birthday by healthcare providers, parents, friends, family members, or a Down syndrome organization. Visit jacksbasket.org or call (651) 456-8321 for more information.
Jack’s Basket strives to ensure that every new and expectant parent is provided resources and avenues of support within the community. They aim to equip medical providers with tools to discuss the diagnosis in an unbiased way in hopes that having a baby with Down syndrome is celebrated like any other.
Free Summer Meals & Food Distribution
No child should go hungry when school is out. Thankfully, free summer meal programs are available across the Valley to help fill the gap. Local kids can enjoy nutritious meals at no cost all summer long!
• Bulldog Pantry: Monthly food distributions for all from 9–10:30 a.m. at the Lutheran Campus Ministry of Fresno.
• Central California Food Bank: Food is available for all for pick-up at over 200 food distribution sites.
• Central Unified School District: Free breakfast from 8:30–9:30 a.m. and lunch from 11:30–12:30 p.m. will be served to kids ages 1–18.
• Clovis Unified School District: Free breakfast and lunch (times vary) will be served to kids ages 1–18.
• Fresno EOC: Meals will be made available to all kids ages 1–18.
• Fresno Unified School District: Free lunches will be served to kids ages 1–18 from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Madera Unified School District: Free breakfast from 7:30–8 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m.–12 p.m. to all Madera children ages 1–18.
• Neighborhood Market VCC: Food distributions for all every third Thursday of the month starting at 9 a.m. at Valley Christian Center.
• Porterville Unified School District: Free breakfast and lunch (times vary) will be served to kids ages 1–18.
• Visalia Unified School District: Free lunches will be served to kids ages 2–18 from 12–1 p.m.
Some locations may not be listed in time for print, so be sure to check our website regularly for the most up-to-date list of participating meal sites. New sites are being added as information becomes available.
Visit for site locations, dates, & additional details. ccparent.com/resources/while-kids-are-home
Some Shorter Stuff
Meet our Cover Kid, Kensley! Kensley, age 6, just graduated from kindergarten and is very excited to start first grade! A ray of sunshine wherever she goes, Kensley makes friends easily by striking up cheerful conversations. She loves dancing, singing, gymnastics, and getting creative with arts and crafts.
Calling All Student Artists! The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District is accepting clean air drawings for their upcoming Healthy Air Living Kids’ Calendar, an annual contest showcasing the San Joaquin Valley’s K–12 students’ art and commitment to clean air. Get out your markers, crayons, and paints and start your clean air masterpiece! Deadline for entries is September 26th. Visit valleyair.org/kidscalendar for contest rules and more information.
All Aboard! Get your ticket to fun and educational activities with Amtrak. Kids can learn about the railroad and the many places they can go. Travel to national parks and historic landmarks, add color to some fun coloring pages, play games, and more! Keep checking in at amtrak.com/activity-center—new stops are always being added!
Fire is Everyone's Fight! Help your local fire department by educating yourself and your kids on what you can do to prevent fires in your home. Visit usfa.fema.gov for free fire safety materials and educational programs.
Protect Your Kids' Hearing. With children across the country gearing up for summer break, the American Speech-LanguageHearing Association is urging parents to be mindful of seasonal hearing hazards (unsafe listening to audio devices and exposure to noisy events—like concerts, sporting events, and fireworks) that could put children at risk for noise-induced hearing loss. Anyone with concerns about their hearing should seek an evaluation from a certified audiologist. Visit asha.org/public to learn more.
Weekly Giveaways! Be sure to stay connected with Central California Parent at ccparent.com and all our social platforms for a chance to win cool prizes every week! Last month we gave away performance tickets, toys, parenting products, and more!
Explaining a Big Scientific Idea in Just Two Minutes? The Breakthrough Junior Challenge invites students ages 13–18 to create a short, creative video that brings a concept in physics, life sciences, or math to life. Whether it’s an animation, demonstration, or dramatic reenactment, videos should be engaging, illuminating, and original. Top videos will be judged on creativity, clarity, and complexity. Deadline is September 15th!
Underage Drinking Linked to Thousands of Deaths. Research shows that teens who wait until 21 to drink are far less likely to become drunk drivers later in life. The Power of Parents program from MADD gives parents tools to start ongoing, impactful conversations with their kids about alcohol and other drug use. Visit madd.org/powerofparents and download the free handbook.
When we recycle, it turns something old into something new.
Recycling Bottles & Cans earns me money and beautifies the community.
Every aluminum can I recycle comes back as something new in as little as 3 months.
HealthWatch
An Update on your Family’s Health and Welfare
Increase in Child Injuries from Window Falls
With warm weather here and families starting to open their windows more frequently, Valley Children's Hospital is seeing a rise in young patients suffering severe injuries after falling from second-story residential windows. This concerning trend highlights a need for increased awareness among parents and caregivers.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, each year in the U.S., approximately eight children aged five years and younger lose their lives as a result of falls from windows, and an estimated 3,300 children are injured in similar incidents. Alarmingly, one in three of these cases results in hospitalization, often due to serious issues such as head trauma and fractures.
To ensure the safety and well-being of children throughout the Central Valley, Valley Children’s urges parents to take extra precautions regarding hidden hazards in the home.
Stay Safe During Extreme Heat
2024 was one of the hottest summers on record and experts predict that the summer of 2025 may be just as intense with hotter than normal temperatures. The American Red Cross Central California Region urges everyone to take three actions to stay safe: stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay connected!
What Your Should Do
Remind everyone to drink water, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Aim for a cup of water every hour and encourage people to avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks. Babies should be breastfed or bottle fed often. Fewer wet diapers or darker urine can be signs of dehydration. Encourage athletes and outdoor workers to take breaks in the shade. They should drink a cup of water every 20 minutes and take frequent water breaks.
Help those without air conditioning find a safe place to go like a mall, library, or cooling center. They can also take cool showers or baths to help cool off. Remind people to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in light colors. Never leave a child or pet alone inside a parked car, and make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.
“Knowing what to do to protect yourself and loved ones from extreme heat can save lives,” said Dani Aguilar, Regional Preparedness Manager of Central California. “We’re asking everyone to check on friends and neighbors, especially older adults, people with chronic conditions, outdoor workers, and athletes. You could make all the difference by sending a text, making a call, or knocking on their door.”
"Screens are meant to keep bugs out, not to keep children in,” emphasizes Valley Children’s Trauma Injury Prevention Coordinator Kristina Pasma, RN. “They often give parents a false sense of security, thinking they can support a child's weight. Active supervision is key, but it is also important to keep furniture and other items that children can climb on away from windows."
Another option to prevent window fall incidents is to install window guard stops. These devices create a barrier that limits how far a window can open. Being proactive about these precautions can help create a safer home environment, allowing children to enjoy the summer while minimizing the risk of serious injury.
Visit the injury prevention resource page at valleychildrens.org for more information on protecting your family –Valley Children's Healthcare
Heat Illness Signs
Anyone can become ill during extreme heat if their body can’t cool down properly. It’s critical to act fast as some types of heat illness can be deadly.
Heat cramps: Look for heavy sweating and muscle pain. Stop activity, rest in a cool place, and sip water. Get help if cramps last over an hour or you have heart problems.
Heat exhaustion: Signs include sweating, weakness, clammy skin, cramps, dizziness, or nausea. Rest in a cool place, sip water, loosen clothes, and use a cool cloth. Get help if symptoms persist, you vomit, or have heart issues.
Heat stroke: This is life-threatening. Signs include high body temperature, fast heartbeat, confusion, or fainting. Call 911, cool down with wet cloths or a bath, and don’t drink anything.
If the Power Goes Out
When a heat wave and a power outage happen at the same time, it can be even more dangerous. Stay in air conditioning either at home or at a mall, library, or cooling center. Keep an ice-filled cooler stocked with food, water, and medicine, so that they don’t spoil.
Visit redcross.org/youthprep and download digital resources and videos for kids. Download the free Red Cross First Aid app for resources, weather alerts, and heat safety information.
–American Red Cross
Firework Safety Tips from the National Safety Council
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks
• Older children should use them only under adult supervision
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
• Those using (or near) fireworks should wear protective eyewear
• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
• Never light them indoors
• Stay away from people, houses, and flammable material
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person
• Only light one device at a time and never in a container
• Maintain a safe distance after lighting
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
• Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off—or in case of a fire
• Never use illegal fireworks
Stay Away from Sparklers: Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees—hot enough to melt some metals. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers account for over 25% of ER visits for fireworks injuries. For children under 5, sparklers accounted for nearly half of the total estimated injuries. Consider using safer alternatives like glow sticks or streamers.
– National Safety Council
Things We Love!
We love the versatility, through every stage of life, from postpartum to post-op.
The Healing Bra The Healing Bra is designed to bring comfort and relief to anyone experiencing breast pain—from nursing mothers to those recovering from surgery, illness, or hormonal changes. Its patented therapeutic pads can be warmed or cooled and slip discreetly into each cup to ease discomfort. Thoughtfully developed and tested, it’s comfort, right where you need it.
$64.99 • thehealingbras.com
ChompSaw
The ChompSaw by Chompshop is a kid-safe power tool that makes cutting cardboard easy, fun, and safe for children ages 5 and up. With no exposed blades or spinning parts, it uses a rapid hole-punching mechanism to bring big ideas to life—perfect for building forts, costumes, dioramas, and more while exploring hands-on STEAM learning. What will you and your child create?
$249 • chompshop.com
We love the freedom to create without the risks of traditional tools—parents can feel confident in letting creativity run wild!
Atome Bakery Fresh, bakery-quality sourdough baguettes to your home—ready to bake straight from the freezer in just 30 minutes. Made with clean-label ingredients and a 3-day fermentation process, these 100% sourdough loaves are a delicious, wholesome upgrade from storebought bread. Order once or subscribe with total flexibility—pause or cancel anytime after your first box.
$109+ • atomebakery.com We love the variety—brioche, croissants, waffles, ciabatta,
A Staycation to Remember
By Rebecca Hastings
While many people use spring or summertime for an annual vacation, that may not work for every family. Instead, you can opt for a staycation. This involves sleeping in your home and taking day trips to local attractions. While they may not involve as much travel as a traditional vacation, staycations can be just as fun.
Why Take a Staycation
There are multiple benefits of a staycation. One of the most common is that it is more economical. Without the expense of airfare, hotels, and car rental, families can spend their money on the activities they want to do. This is especially helpful if you are working with a limited budget.
Staycations are also easier to plan. You may not be able to get a full week off of work, but you could manage a few days— even if it is a weekend. A staycation allows you to fill those days with fun so you don’t
miss the family time of a vacation. You also don’t need to worry about lodging and travel arrangements. You simply need to plan where you are going and know you will be back to sleep in your own bed.
Taking a staycation also provides a great opportunity to explore things in your area that you don’t normally see. Whether it’s activities, museums, restaurants, or parks, there are things you and your family can explore within driving distance.
The Key to a Great Staycation
If you want a staycation to be one you and your family remember, the key is to plan it. While it may be fun to be spontaneous and see where the day takes you, you still need some plans or the day may end up filled with household chores instead of a getaway.
Take the time off work, clear everyone’s schedules, and put it on the calendar, just like you would for a regular vacation. If you’re not sure what to do, keep a running list of places you want to go with your family on a note in your phone, in a folder
on social media, or you could even create a visual board to display for the whole family to see. Keeping these ideas in one place will help you when it’s time to plan.
Make Your Staycation Memorable
You can make your staycation just as special as a jet-setting getaway. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your staycation:
Plan Together: Involve your kids in the planning process. Let them choose activities and destinations to visit around your local area. This will help them feel engaged and invested in the process. Create a Schedule: Make a loose itinerary of activities to do each day. Include a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, as well as downtime. Be sure to schedule time for meals with ideas for where to go to avoid people getting cranky. Theme Days: Have themed days such as "Adventure Day," "Art Day," or "Sports Day," where all activities revolve around that theme.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24, 2019
ALL Valley Dancers are invited to audition for the 2019 Community Production of The Nutcracker
Explore Local Attractions: Visit local parks, museums, zoos, or attractions you haven't been to before. Check the calendar on page 13 for a list of summer events in Central California.
Ballet Students: Ages 8-12
AUDITIONS!
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24, 2019
Should have 2 years ballet training • 11 am - 12:30 pm
Backyard Camping: Set up a tent in the backyard, roast marshmallows, and tell stories around a campfire. Make sure all household chores and yard work are off-limits.
ALL Valley Dancers are invited to audition for the 2019 Community Production of
Intermediate/Advanced ballet students: Ages 12 & Up
Ladies bring pointe shoes • 1-3 pm
Ballet Students: Ages 8-12
Should have 2 years ballet training • 11 am - 12:30 pm
Call - Back for Intermediate/Advanced Dancers: 3-5 pm
Cook Together: Plan and prepare meals together. Try making new recipes or cooking foods that the kids enjoy. You can even pack food to bring on your adventures.
Bon Bons: Ages 6-9
Ladies bring pointe shoes • 1-3 pm
Some Ballet & Gymnastics • 5-6 pm
Game Night: For a simple staycation that is less than a full day, have a family game night with board games, card games, or video games that everyone can enjoy.
Central California Ballet AUDITIONS!
Intermediate/Advanced ballet students: Ages 12 & Up
Call - Back for Intermediate/Advanced Dancers:
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24, 2019
Boys: Ages 8 & Older
Bon Bons: Ages 6-9
Some Acting or Dance Experience • 6-7 pm
Some Ballet & Gymnastics • 5-6 pm
Audition Location:
ALL Valley Dancers are invited to audition for the 2019 Community Production of The Nutcracker Ballet Students: Ages 8-12
Movie Marathon: Head to the movies or pick a series of movies to watch together at home. Create a cozy movie night complete with popcorn and blankets.
Call-Back for Intermediate Dancers:
Boys: Ages 8 & Older
Some Acting or Dance Experience • 6-7 pm
Should have 2 years ballet training • 11 am - 12:30 pm
California State University, Fresno • Music Building, Shaw & Maple
Check website for directions
Arts and Crafts: Go to the craft store and pick up fun crafts to do together. Then have a crafting day where you can make art projects or DIY crafts.
Local Food Tour: Explore different local restaurants or food trucks. Let each family member pick a place to eat.
Make Memories Together
More Staycation Ideas We Love!
Plan a Day: Give each person in the family one day to plan for your summer staycation. You can do them all in one week or spread them over the summer.
Intermediate/Advanced ballet students: Ages 12 & Up
Audition Location:
Ladies bring pointe shoes • 1-3 pm
The Nutcracker Ballet
California State University, Fresno • Music Building, Shaw & Maple
Bon Bons: Ages 6–9 • Some ballet and gymnastics experience • 5–6 pm
Boys: Ages 8 & Up • Some acting or dance experience • 6–7 pm
Check website for directions
Call - Back for Intermediate/Advanced Dancers: 3-5 pm
Bon Bons: Ages 6-9
4 Performances at the Saroyan Thetre, Fresno December 13, 14 & 15, 2019
Shaw & Maple Avenues
The Nutcracker Ballet
Some Ballet & Gymnastics • 5-6 pm
4 Performances at the Saroyan Thetre, Fresno
Boys: Ages 8 & Older
December 13, 14 & 15, 2019
Some Acting or Dance Experience • 6-7 pm
Lively Arts Foundation
Central California Ballet AUDITIONS!
The best part of a staycation is the time you spend together. At the end of your staycation, reflect on the memories you've made together. Ask everyone to share their favorite moments and pictures from the day.
Audition Location: California State University Fresno - Music Building
The Nutcracker Ballet: Performances December 20 & 21, 2025
Diane K. Mosier, Artistic Director
Check website for directions
Audition Location: California State University, Fresno • Music Building, Shaw & Maple
The Nutcracker Ballet
Lively Arts Foundation
Central California Ballet
Diane K. Mosier, Artistic Director
Saroyan Theatre, 730 M. Street, Fresno, CA 93721
Ballet Students: Ages 8–12 • Should have 2 years ballet training • 11 am–12:30 pm
4 Performances at the Saroyan Thetre, Fresno December 13, 14 & 15, 2019
Shirley Winters, Artistic Director • Carla Lippert, Co-Director
Central California Ballet
Shirley Winters, Artistic Director • Carla Lippert, Co-Director
Lively Arts Foundation
Questions: 559-246-2953 or 559-270-3212
Questions: 559-246-2953 or 559-270-3212
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24, 2019
Shirley Winters, Artistic Director • Carla Lippert, Co-Director
Ballet Students: Ages 8-12
Questions: 559-246-2953 or 559-270-3212
Shirley Winters, Artistic Director • Steven Montalvo, Co-Director
Questions: 559-246-2953 or 559-270-3212 • www.livelyarts.org
ALL Valley Dancers are invited to audition for the 2019 Community Production of The Nutcracker
Should have 2 years ballet training • 11 am - 12:30 pm
Intermediate/Advanced ballet students: Ages 12 & Up
Ladies bring pointe shoes • 1-3 pm
Call - Back for Intermediate/Advanced Dancers:
By focusing on quality time together, exploring new activities, and creating a sense of adventure, you can make your family staycation memorable and enjoyable for everyone.
Bon Bons: Ages 6-9
Some Ballet & Gymnastics • 5-6 pm
Boys: Ages 8 & Older
Some Acting or Dance Experience • 6-7 pm
Audition Location:
Local Farmers Market Tour: Visit different markets in the Valley and try something new at each one.
California State University, Fresno • Music Building, Shaw & Maple
Bike Day: Plan a day biking, scootering, or skateboarding local trails or around scenic neighborhoods.
Check website for directions
The Nutcracker Ballet
Water Fun Day: Set up a DIY water park in your yard with sprinklers, water balloons, and a kiddie pool.
Library Crawl: Explore a few different branches of your local library system in one day.
4 Performances at the Saroyan Thetre, Fresno December 13, 14 & 15, 2019
Sunrise or Sunset Picnic: Pack a breakfast or dinner and head to a scenic spot to watch the sky.
Spa Day at Home: Treat yourselves to homemade facials, cucumber water, and soothing music.
Public Art Scavenger Hunt: Search for murals, sculptures, or other public art in your community.
Lively Arts Foundation
Diane K. Mosier, Artistic Director
Shirley Winters, Artistic Director • Carla Lippert, Co-Director
Volunteer Together: Find a family-friendly volunteer opportunity in your community.
Questions: 559-246-2953 or 559-270-3212
Ice Cream Crawl: Sample different local ice cream shops and vote for your favorite.
Nature Day: Visit a regional park or nature preserve and bring binoculars for wildlife spotting.
Family Photo Day: Dress up and explore a few scenic spots while snapping fun family pictures.
Best Pizza Around: Every family member orders a small pizza from their favorite place. Create scorecards and rank the slices.
Pool Safely: Simple Steps Save Lives
Swimming pools and spas are great places for family fun. It’s important to ensure everyone follows these simple safety steps to stay safer in and around the water.
1. Supervise Children
Always watch children when they’re in or near water, and never leave them unattended. Designate an official Water Watcher, an adult tasked with supervising children in the water. That should be their only task—they shouldn’t be reading, texting, or playing games on their phone. Have a phone close by at all times in case you need to call for help, and if a child is missing, check the pool first.
Even if a lifeguard is present, parents and caregivers should still take the responsibility of being a designated Water Watcher. When any lifeguard chair is empty, the remaining lifeguards may not be able to see the entire pool and when lifeguards are seated in low chairs, their view can be blocked by patrons in the pool.
2. Learn to Swim
Swimming is not only fun, it’s a lifesaving skill. Enroll children in swimming lessons and learn to swim if you are an adult who needs a refresher or who has never learned. There are many free or reduced-cost options available too. Check your local YMCA, USA Swimming Chapter, or Parks and Recreation Department.
3. Know Your Drains
Teach children to stay away from drains. Do not play or swim near drains or suction outlets, especially in spas and shallow pools, and never enter a pool or spa that has a loose, broken, or missing drain cover. Hair, limbs, jewelry, or bathing suits can get stuck in drains or suction openings. When using a spa, be sure to locate the emergency vacuum shutoff before getting in the water.
4. Ensure Compliance
Ensure all pools and spas have compliant drain covers. Virginia Graeme Baker, after whom the Pool and Spa Safety Act is named, died from drowning due to a suction entrapment from a faulty drain cover. All public pools and spas must have drain grates or covers that meet safety standards to avoid incidents like the one that took Graeme’s life. Powerful suction from a pool or spa drain can even trap an adult.
5. Install Safety Devices
Proper fences, barriers, alarms, and covers can be lifesaving devices. A fence of at least four feet in height should surround the pool or spa on all sides and should not be climbable for children. The water should only be accessible through a selfclosing, self-latching gate. Teach children to never try to climb over the gate or fence. Install a door alarm from the house to the pool area, and keep pool and spa covers in working order.
6. Get CPR Certified
Often, bystanders are the first to aid a drowning victim, so learning CPR can help save a life. And once you’re CPR certified, make sure to keep your certification current. CPR classes are available through many hospitals, community centers, or by contacting the American Red Cross.
7. Take the Pledge
Before heading to the pool or spa with your family, visit poolsafely.gov/pledge and take the Pool Safely Pledge. This online call to action is a reminder for the whole family to stay safer around the water.
Splash & Soak!
Summer is in full swing and when it’s scorching hot outside, kids just want to cool off. Here are fun places around the Central Valley for kids to cool off for free!
FREE SPLASH PARKS & SPLASH PADS
• Centennial Park, 11731 Hanford Armona Road, Hanford
• Coe Park, 543 S. Douty Street, Hanford
• Del Lago, 1700 N. Laspina Street, Tulare
• Dickey Playground, 50 N. Calaveras Street, Fresno
• Figarden Loop Park, 4265 W. Figarden Drive, Fresno
• Fink White Park, 535 S. Trinity Street, Fresno
• Freedom Park, 2000 9 1/2 Avenue, Hanford
• Hidden Valley Park, 2150 N. Eleventh Avenue, Hanford
• Inspiration Park, 5770 W. Gettysburg Avenue, Fresno
• JFK Park, Faller & North Avenues, Sanger
• Lemoore Rotary Youth Plaza, 300 E. Street, Lemoore
• Maldonado Park, Clyde Fannon Drive & Thomas Conboy Street, Firebaugh
• Martin Ray Reilly Park, 750 N. Chestnut Avenue, Fresno
• Melody Park, 5935 E. Shields Avenue, Fresno
• Mosqueda Community Center, 4670 E. Butler Avenue, Fresno
• Mulcahy Park, 1100 W. Sonora Avenue, Tulare
• Riverway Sports Park, 3611 N. Dinuba Boulevard, Visalia
• Salazar Water Park, 1800 Sheridan Street, Selma
• Todd Beamer Park, 1890 E. Plymouth Way, Fresno
• Trimble Park, 196 S. Reed Avenue, Reedley
• Vinland Park, 4695 E. Gettysburg Avenue, Fresno
Firebaugh: open every weekend. Fresno: open daily, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Hanford: open daily, 12.–8 p.m. Lemoore: call for days and times. Reedley: open daily, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.. Sanger: open daily, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Selma: call for days and times. Tulare: open Fridays–Sundays, 12–7 p.m. Visalia: open daily, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Splash Parks may break down due to unforeseen circumstances, hours and days subject to change. Splash Parks will also be closed for maintenance days. Please plan accordingly. For more information, contact the Parks and Recreation Department for the corresponding city. Firebaugh: (559) 659-2043, Fresno: (559) 621-7529, Hanford: (559) 5852525, Lemoore: (559) 924-6744, Reedley: (559) 637-4200, Sanger (559) 876-6300, Selma (559) 891-2237, Tulare: (559) 684-4310, Visalia (559) 713-4365.
FREE & LOW-COST COMMUNITY SWIM CENTERS
• Centennial Pool Complex, 221 Flume Street, Madera: Tuesdays–Fridays. Call for end date. 12:30–4:30 p.m. $1–$2. (559) 661-5495
• Chowchilla Union High School, 805 Humbolt Avenue, Chowchilla: Mondays–Fridays through July 25th. 12:30–4 p.m. $1–$2. (559) 665-8615
• Clovis West High School, 1044 E. Cole Avenue, Fresno: Tuesdays & Wednesdays through July 22nd. Call for times. $3–$5. (559) 327-9000
• Crandell Swim Complex, 1900 18th Avenue, Kingsburg: Mondays–Fridays through August 8th. 12–4 p.m. $2–$3. (559) 897-0305
• Dinuba High School, 340 E. Kern Street, Dinuba: Mondays–Fridays. 1:30–4 p.m. Call for end date. $2. (559) 591-5940
• Edison High School, 540 E. California Avenue, Fresno: Saturdays & Sundays through August 27th. 12–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Einstein Park*, 3566 E. Dakota Avenue, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Fink White Park*, 535 S. Trinity Street, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Frank H. Ball, 760 Mayor Street, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Hoover High School, 5550 N. First Street, Fresno: Saturdays & Sundays through August 27th. 12–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Kerman High School, 205 S. First Street, Kerman: Tuesdays–Fridays from 1–4 p.m. and Saturdays 12–4 p.m. Call for end date. $1–$2.50. (559) 550-0972
• Lafayette Park, 1516 E. Princeton Avenue, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Mary Ella Brown, 1350 E. Annadale Avenue, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• McLane High School, 2727 N. Cedar Avenue, Fresno: Saturdays & Sundays through August 27th. 12–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Mosqueda Community Center, 4670 E. Butler Avenue, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Pinedale Community Center*, 7170 N. San Pablo Avenue, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Quigley Neighborhood Park*, 808 W. Dakota Avenue, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Redwood High School Pool, 1001 W. Main Street, Visalia: Tuesdays–Saturdays through August 8th. 1–3 p.m. $2. (559) 730-7300
• Romain Neighborhood Park*, 745 N. First Street, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Roosevelt High School, 4250 E. Tulare Avenue, Fresno: Saturdays & Sundays through August 27th. 12–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• Selma High School, 3125 Wright Street, Selma: Saturdays and Sundays through August 3rd. 12–4 p.m. Free! (559) 891-2237
• Sunset Park, 1345 W. Eden Avenue, Fresno: Daily, call for end date. 1–5 p.m. Free! (559) 621-7529
• The Plunge, 415 Ford Street, Hanford: Mondays–Fridays from 12:30–5:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $2–$3. (559) 854-3268
• Tulare Union Pool, 755 E. Tulare Avenue, Tulare: Mondays–Saturdays through July 18th. 1–2:30 p.m. $1. (559) 685-2300
*Starred pools are Learner Pools only. Pools are 2.5–5 feet and are to be used by kids 5–12 years old. Kids must know how to swim.
Summer Camp Directory
Plan your kids’ best summer ever!
We’ve listed some of the best programs around!
ArtAcademy at Fresno Art Museum
Fresno (559) 441-4221
One week of Summer ArtAcademy at the Fresno Art Museum remains! Sign up now for a full or half day for our August 11-15, 2025 workshops. Be Inspired! (by famous artists) from 9:00 am-12:30 pm and Fun with Mixed Media from 1-4:30 pm. For ages 8-15. COME CREATE WITH US! To learn more and to register go to fresnoartmuseum.org/ summer2025 or email Susan@fresnoartmuseum.org
Confidence Builders Tutoring LLC
Clovis (559) 647-2267
Summer is the perfect time to: get ahead, stay on track, catch up! Call Confidence Builders Tutoring LLC for the perfect summer program for your pre-K through grade 8 student.
Cullinan Education Center
Fresno (559) 43-LEARN
Thirty-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 math through Algebra II and advanced writing and grammar. Consultations are free. Call today to inquire about our summer tutoring camps and to schedule a consultation. Visit our website at www.cullinaneducation.com.
Fresno Fencing Club Swordplay Camp
Fresno (559) 224-1910
En Garde! Strength, balance, coordination... and swords! What could be more fun than learning the Olympic and Collegiate Sport of fencing? Ages 8 and up will enjoy four days of crossing blades with their camp mates. Experience this amazing sport! Visit www.fresno-fencing.com or call for more information.
Gymnastics Beat Ninja-Zone
Fresno (559) 271-9400
Ninja Zone is growing like crazy! With a combination of martial arts, tricking, tumbling, strength training and lots of fun, no wonder kids love to be involved in any of our classes, parent's night out, ninja clinics
and move up ceremonies! As with any of our programs, your children will be encouraged to develop endurance, flexibility, hand-eye coordination, and respect for all our trained coaches and fellow athletes! Can't wait until summer? Want to join now? Call for more information about our current class listings, special clinics, and workshops! Thank you, Central Valley, for helping us celebrate 22 years of business!
Gymnastics Beat Summer Camp
Fresno (559) 271-9400
Summer will be here before you know it! And while your kids are doing what they normally do: jumping off the couch or bed, running around the house needing to get that pent up energy out or just plain bored, why not sign them up for our annual 'COOL' gymnastics summer camps? We have tons of things to do in our 18,000 sq ft gym! 3 spring floors, 2 tumble traks, bars, beams, ropes, cargo net, rings, climbing wall, ninja obstacle course, arts-n-crafts and especially, the kid's summer favorite-outdoor water games, all while having a blast socializing! Half days and full days available with discounts for buying in bulk packages and pre-registration! Ages 3 to 12.
Math Crazy
Fresno (559) 439-6700
Join MATH CRAZY for a summer of fun and learning. We are locally owned and have served the Valley for 36 years. Whether you just need some review or want to be ahead for next school YEAR, we are here to help. We will tailor make a program aligned with your goals for your child(ren) to work on here at MATH CRAZY! Even though we specialize in the math, we can help in any subject. Call Trish for information at (559) 439-6700. We are open T/W/TH.
Reverent School of Movement
Fresno (559)
388-1579
Keep your kids moving ALL summer long with our camps, group classes, & open gyms! From flips & handstands to chase tag & obstacle courses - there is no shortage of new skills to learn, friends to make, and energy to burn at Reverent School of Movement. All of our activities foster growth in body awareness, strength, confidence, agility, and a joy for
movement that stick with our students for a lifetime! Visit www.reverentmovement.com or call (559) 388-1579 for more information.
River Camp with the River Parkway Trust
Fresno (559) 248-8480 ext. 157
Voted Central California’s BEST summer camp of 2025, River Camp invites children to spend a week immersed in outdoor adventure along the San Joaquin River! Campers explore the river’s natural wonders through hands-on science activities and games, hikes, crafts, and plenty of water play, all led by experienced, enthusiastic counselors. From fast-paced games to peaceful moments in nature, each day offers a chance to learn, connect, and discover. Programs are available for children ages 3 ½ through middle school, with leadership opportunities for high school students as Junior Leaders. Spots are filling fast, but there is still space in the later weeks of the summer! Don’t hesitate - come be part of the BEST summer camp around. Online registration is available at www.riverparkway. org. Email: rivercamp@riverparkway.org.
Sequoia Lake Music Camp Fresno (559) 269-1410
Sequoia Lake Music Camp is a sleep-away camp nestled in the woods east of Fresno. With 50+ years of tradition, 5th–12th graders will enjoy musical opportunities plus boating, swimming, arts & crafts, climbing, archery and more! www.sequoialakemusic.com
United Skates
Clovis (559) 291-0242
United Skates Clovis is a premier roller skating rink located at 2881 Peach Avenue in Clovis, California. Our facility boasts over 15,000 square feet of smooth-rolling fun, featuring state-of-the-art lighting, a vibrant sound system with DJs, and a fully stocked Roller Cafe offering favorites like pizza, soft drinks, and more. In addition to roller skating, guests can enjoy a huge arcade with awesome prizes, making it the perfect destination for fun. We offer special group rates and fundraising for summer camps, daycares, schools, non-profit organizations, and more, ensuring affordable and memorable outings for groups of all sizes. (559) 291-0242, www.UnitedSkates.com/Clovis
JulyCalendar
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.
2 Wednesday
SHAVER LAKE FIREWORKS & BOAT PARADE
Enjoy this tradition of family fun at the lake with the boat parade at 6 p.m. and fireworks at dusk. Free! Shaver Lake. (559) 841-3350
3 Thursday
DINUBA INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
Families will enjoy food, fun, and fireworks starting at 5 p.m. at this free event. Fireworks begin around 9:15 p.m. Ridge Creek Golf Course, 3018 Ridge Creek Drive, Dinuba. (559) 591-5940
KERMAN AMERICAN SPIRIT FIREWORK EXTRAVAGANZA Enjoy food trucks, the play zone, fireworks, and more! Festivities start at 6 p.m. Tickets: $3–$6, kids 3 and under are free. Kerman High School, Football Stadium, 205 S. First Street, Kerman. (559) 846-6343
KINGSBURG INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
Old fashioned All-American patriotic celebration with fireworks, food, and fun! 6 p.m. Bring your chairs and blankets! Call for tickets. Kingsburg High School, 1900 18th Avenue, Kingsburg. (559) 897-1111
SELMA INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION Food booths, fireworks, and more! Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs. Tickets: $2–$5, children 4 and under are free. Selma High School, 3125 Wright Street, Selma. (559) 891-2235
VISALIA INDEPENDENCE SPECTACULAR Families will enjoy food, music, a drone show, and more from 6–10:30 p.m. Free entry. Riverway Sports Park, 3611 N. Dinuba Boulevard, Visalia. (559) 713-4365
VISALIA RACING & FIREWORKS Join for an evening of racing action, great food, and fireworks! Racing begins at 5:30 p.m. and fireworks begin at 9 p.m. Tickets: $8–$15, kids 5 and under are free. Plaza Park Raceway, 700 S. Plaza Street, Visalia. (559) 890-8814
4 Friday
ATWATER 4TH OF JULY The day kicks off with the parade at 9 a.m. at Elm & Winton, the festival runs through 4 p.m. at Ralston Park, and the concert and fireworks show is from 6–10 p.m. at the Castle Commerce Center. Parking: $20, Walk-Ins: $5. 5050 Santa Fe Drive, Atwater. (209) 355-4912
BASS LAKE FIREWORKS & BOAT PARADE Light up the sky with the annual, free fireworks show at Bass Lake. Boat parade at 7 p.m. and Fireworks at dusk, but arrive early to claim a spot on the beach or in the water. Bass Lake, 54432 Road 432, Bass Lake. (559) 683-4636
CLOVIS FREEDOM FEST Don't miss the biggest patriotic party in the Valley from 5–9:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, kids 5 and under are free. Clovis High School, Lamonica Stadium, 1055 Fowler Avenue, Clovis. (559) 225-7228
MADERA 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR Enjoy games, food trucks, and fireworks! Free admission. Fun begins at 5 p.m., fireworks at 9 p.m. Madera District Fairgrounds, 1850 Cleveland Avenue, Madera. (559) 673-1010
SANGER 4TH OF JULY SPECTACULAR Live music, vendors, kids zone, and fireworks! 5:30–9:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, kids 5 and under are free, $10 for parking. Sanger High School, 1045 N. Bethel Avenue, Sanger. (559) 875-4575
5 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, (559) 437-0484 and 3415 S. Mooney Boulevard, Visalia. (559) 372-0345
DIY KIDS WORKSHOP Join for a free workshop where kids can make a toucan mobile at 9 a.m. While supplies last. Visit homedepot.com/workshops to register in advance and find your local Home Depot. Home Depot. (559) 294-9600 or (559) 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. (559) 251-5533
FOWLER 5TH OF JULY CELEBRATION Enjoy fun, food, music, kids activities, and more! Bring your lawn chair to watch this spectacular show. Free entry. Gates open at 6 p.m., fireworks begin at dusk. Fowler High School, 128 S. Fifth Street, Fowler. (559) 834-3113
Looking for Summer Reading Events?
Your local library is offering free activities, performances, crafts, and more this summer!
ccparent.com/summer-reading
$1–$3 Summer Movies
GALAXY SUMMER FEST Summer Fest at Galaxy Theatres is back! Enjoy $2 showings all week! Make sure to visit the 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
• July 1st–3rd: The Bad Guys
• July 4th–10th: The Garfield Movie
• July 11th–17th: Despicable Me 4
• July 18th–24th: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
• July 25th–31st: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
MAYA CINEMAS' SUMMER KIDS CAMP
Enjoy showings of kids movies for only $3 at 10:30 a.m. Maya Cinemas, 3090 E. Campus Pointe Drive, Fresno. (559) 549-0005
• July 1st–3rd: Kung Fu Panda 4
• July 7th–10th: Migration
• July 14th–17th: Trolls Band Together
• July 21st–24th: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
• July 28th–31st: Despicable Me 4
SUMMER MOVIE CLUBHOUSE The Clubhouse is back at Cinemark with 10 weeks of kid-approved movies! Enjoy safe and exciting big-screen entertainment for just $1.75 per ticket. Cinemark Movies 8, 1669 W. Lacey Boulevard, Hanford. (559) 582-1474
• July 1st–3rd: Despicable Me 4
• July 7th–10th: Kung Fu Panda 4
• July 14th–17th: The Wild Robot
• July 21st–24th: Sonic the Hedgehog 3
• July 28th–31st: The Garfield Movie
REGAL SUMMER MOVIE EXPRESS
During summer break, enjoy family movies for only $1! Check individual theaters for showtimes. Regal Fresno River Park, 250 Paseo Del Centro, Fresno. Regal UA Clovis, 2301 Villa Avenue, Clovis. Regal Manchester, 2055 E. Shields Avenue, Fresno. Regal Marketplace at El Paseo, 6455 N. Riverside Drive, Fresno. (844) 462-7342
• July 1st & 2nd: Sonic the Hedgehog 3 & The Wild Robot
• July 8th & 9th: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse & Paw Patrol: The Movie
• July 15th & 16th: Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse & Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie
• July 22nd & 23rd: Kung Fu Panda 4 & Despicable Me 4
• July 29th & July 30th: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles & The Garfield Movie
Early Childhood Preschool Directory
Brighten Academy Preschool 2016 Shaw Ave., Clovis (559) 299-8100
Brighten Academy
(559) 294-1310
N. Villa Ave., Clovis (559) 298-7880
(559) 492-1238
BASEBALL GAMES
FRESNO GRIZZLIES Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Fresno Grizzlies up at bat. Tickets: $12–$78. Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno. (559) 320-TIXS
• July 4th and 11th at 7:05 p.m.
• July 5th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 12th, 29th, 30th, and 31st at 6:50 p.m.
• July 6th and 13th at 5:05 p.m.
VISALIA RAWHIDE Take the whole family out to the ball game and watch your Visalia Rawhide up at bat. Tickets: $10–$16. Valley Strong Ballpark, 300 N. Giddings Street, Visalia. (559) 732-4433
• July 4th at 7 p.m.
• July 5th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 29th, 30th, and 31st at 6:30 p.m.
• July 6th and 13th at 2 p.m.
PERFORMANCES
DISNEY'S FROZEN: THE MUSICAL The smash hit meets the stage in an avalanche of merriment and magic! Rated PG. Tickets: $45–$79. Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre, 1226 N. Wishon Avenue, Fresno. (559) 266-9494
• July 25th and 26th at 5:30 p.m.
• July 27th at 11 a.m.
• July 31st at 5 p.m.
IN THE HEIGHTS Follow the story of a vibrant, tightknit community in Washington Heights, in New York City, and the dreams and aspirations of its residents. Tickets: $13–$18. Matilda Torres High School, 16645 Road 26, Madera. (559) 661-7005
• July 24th, 25th, 26th at 7 p.m.
• July 27th at 2 p.m.
LIL ABNER Get ready for a hilarious, toe-tapping adventure with this lively mountain musical melodrama that is packed with quirky characters, big laughs, and catchy tunes. The show spoofs American politics, romance, and small-town antics in a fun, family-friendly performance. Join for a night of pure entertainment and nostalgia! Rated G. Tickets: $13–$18. Golden Chain Theatre, 42130 Highway 41, Oakhurst. (559) 683-7112
• July 5th, 11th, and 12th at 7 p.m.
• July 6th and 13th at 2 p.m.
THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON
MUSICAL When teenager Percy Jackson discovers he's a demigod, he and his friends embark on an epic journey to find Zeus' missing lightning bolt and prevent a war among the gods. Tickets: $13–$18. Matilda Torres High School, 16645 Road 26, Madera. (559) 661-7005
• July 3rd, 5th, 10th, 11th, 12th at 7 p.m.
• July 6th at 2 p.m.
OUTDOOR MUSIC
BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK Bring a blanket or chair for this free concert series featuring bluegrass and old-timey music. 6:30 p.m. to dusk. Liberty Park, 901 Fifth Street, Clovis. (559) 696-4065
• July 11th
E. D St., Lemoore (559) 924-8301
Kings Christian School equips each student to live a life of Christian excellence for the glory of God through salvation, calling, competency, and character. Partial and Full Day Options Available. Extended Care Available.
CONCERTS UNDER THE STARS Enjoy music and entertainment with the concert starting at 8 p.m. Memorial Park, 1900 Sixteenth Avenue, Kingsburg. (559) 897-1111
• July 10th, 17th, and 24th
MUSIC IN THE PARK Enjoy a free night of music in the park from 8–10 p.m. Veterans Memorial Park, 600 W. Robertson Boulevard, Chowchilla. (559) 665-8615
• July 11th, 18th, and 25th
FRESNO INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION Enjoy food, vendors, baseball, and more at 6 p.m. Free entry. Granite Park Sports Complex, 4000 N. Cedar Avenue, Fresno. (559) 375-1003
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. (559) 224-1591
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. (559) 438-1561
6 Sunday
HANFORD TOY-ANIME-COMIC
CON Visit featured cosplayers and booths from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Dress to impress for the Cosplay Costume Contest at 2:30 p.m. Tickets: $8. Kids 10 and under are free. Hanford Fraternal Hall Association, 1015 N. Tenth Avenue, Hanford. (209) 667-8214
11 Friday
DIVE-IN THEATRE Cool off and enjoy a showing of Vivo from the pool! Swim from 7–10 p.m., movie starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $3. Crandell Swim Complex, 1900 18th Avenue, Kingsburg. (559) 897-6549
MOVIES IN THE PARK–MERCED Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a free showing of The Kid Who Would Be King at dusk. Arrive early for pre-show activities. The Art Kamangar Center, 301 W. Main Street, Merced. (209) 385-6235
MOVIES IN THE PARK–TULARE Enjoy a free showing of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 at 8:15 p.m. Del Lago Park, 1700 N. Laspina Street, Tulare. (559) 684-4310
MOVIE NIGHTS AT THE POOL Enjoy a pool party with a screening of Inside Out 2! $4.50 per person. 8–10 p.m. Reedley High School, 740 W. North Avenue, Reedley. (559) 637-4203
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. (559) 288-2094
SUMMER NIGHT LIGHTS This free series provides positive programming and a safe environment for all ages. Play games and catch a family movie at the park. 7:30 p.m. Zalud Park, 700 N. El Granito Street, Porterville. (559) 791-7695
12 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, (559) 437-0484 and 3415 S. Mooney Boulevard, Visalia. (559) 372-0345
BLACK ANGEL MOMMIES This free grief support group for Black mothers healing after pregnancy or infant loss takes place from 10–11:30 a.m. Child watch and light snacks will be provided. Please RSVP with Jennifer Pino-Xiong via phone. Location given when calling to RSVP. (559) 600-3330
KIDS ZONE School-aged kids can grab a kit to work on a rainbow or sun mosaic coaster 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
MOVIES IN THE PARK At sunset, families can enjoy a free showing of Wicked. Veterans Memorial Park, 600 W. Robertson Boulevard, Chowchilla. (559) 665-8615
18 Friday
DIVE-IN THEATRE Cool off and enjoy a showing of A Minecraft Movie from the pool! Swim from 7–10 p.m., movie starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $3. Crandell Swim Complex, 1900 18th Avenue, Kingsburg. (559) 897-6549
MOVIES ON THE WATER Enjoy a free movie on the water beginning at dusk. Miller's Landing at Bass Lake, 37976 Road 222, Bass Lake. (559) 642-3633
MOVIES IN THE PARK Bring a blanket and enjoy a free showing of Migration at dusk. Freedom Park, 2000 9 1/4 Avenue, Hanford. (559) 585-2525
SUMMER NIGHT LIGHTS This free series provides positive programming and a safe environment for all ages. Enjoy a free swim session from 6:15–8:15 p.m. City Pool, 97 N. Park Drive, Porterville. (559) 791-7695
19 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, (559) 437-0484 and 3415 S. Mooney Boulevard, Visalia. (559) 372-0345
DIY-U AT LOWE'S Bring your mini-DIYer into Lowe’s to build a Messi Soccer Shootout at one of the select time slots for a workshop hosted by a Red Vest experts from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Walk-ins start at 1 p.m. Reserve your space online in advance. Free! Your local Lowe’s. (559) 436-6266 or (559) 322-3000
Win tickets Monster Jam Freestyle Mania!
Get ready for the ultimate freestyle experience—this is Monster Jam Freestyle Mania presented by Spin Master! For the first time ever, Monster Jam® trucks team up with Freestyle Motocross bikes to deliver gravity-defying skills and thrills. We've created one-of-a-kind FMX bikes for this epic team competition, each with the bold, iconic look of your favorite Monster Jam trucks, like the legendary Grave Digger®, El Toro Loco®, Sparkle Smash™, and more. Cheer for your favorite team as they pull off stunts you've never seen before. The energy, the action, and the next-level thrills will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's an adrenaline rush you can only experience live on August 15th–17th at the Save Mart Center in Fresno.
Central California Parent is giving away tickets to Monster Jam Freestyle Mania to some lucky readers! To be entered in our free random drawing, please send a postcard by July 31st with your name, phone number, email, and address. Mail to: Central California Parent: Monster Jam, 7638 N. Ingram, Suite 101, Fresno CA 93711. One entry per family, please.
FRESNO’S INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE BOOKS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY FROM TODDLERS TO TEENS & ADULTS
PUZZLES
STUFFED ANIMALS PUPPETS GAMES
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!
MOVIES IN THE PARK At sunset, families can enjoy a free showing of Despicable Me 4. Veterans Memorial Park, 600 W. Robertson Boulevard, Chowchilla. (559) 665-8615
SIDEWALK ASTRONOMY Observe planets, stars, galaxies, and nebulae while learning about the night sky from the Central Valley Astronomers at dusk. Free! Millerton Lake, Friant. (559) 288-2094
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. (559) 438-1561
25 Friday
DIVE-IN THEATRE Cool off and enjoy a showing of Big Hero 6 from the pool! Swim from 7–10 p.m., movie starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $3. Crandell Swim Complex, 1900 18th Avenue, Kingsburg. (559) 897-6549
MOVIES IN THE PARK–HANFORD Bring a blanket and enjoy a free showing of A Minecraft Movie at dusk. Hidden Valley Park, 2150 N. Eleventh Avenue, Hanford. (559) 585-2525
MOVIES IN THE PARK–MERCED Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a free showing of Captain America: Brave New World at dusk. Arrive early for pre-show activities. The Art Kamangar Center, 301 W. Main Street, Merced. (209) 385-6235
MOVIES IN THE PARK–TULARE Enjoy a free showing of Moana 2 at 8:15 p.m. Zumwalt Park, 400 E. Tulare Avenue, Tulare. (559) 684-4310
MOVIE NIGHTS AT THE POOL Enjoy a pool party with a screening of Moana 2! $4.50 per person. 8–10 p.m. Reedley High School, 740 W. North Avenue, Reedley. (559) 637-4203
26 Saturday
Children‛s Entertainment Programs
Bubble Show
Bubble Play Time
Balloon Artistry
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, (559) 437-0484 and 3415 S. Mooney Boulevard, Visalia. (559) 372-0345
MOVIES IN THE PARK At sunset, families can enjoy a free showing of Mufasa. Veterans Memorial Park, 600 W. Robertson Boulevard, Chowchilla. (559) 665-8615
STAR PARTY Observe planets, stars, galaxies, and nebulae while learning about the night sky from the Central Valley Astronomers at dusk. Free! Big Stump, Highway 180, Kings Canyon National Park. (559) 288-2094
SUMMER NIGHT LIGHTS Families are invited for free activities, games, and more from 4–6 p.m. Redwood High School Pool, 1001 W. Main Street, Visalia. (559) 713-4365
31 Thursday
UNDER THE STARS Enjoy this stargazing event and some nocturnal creature friends from 8–11 p.m. Tickets: $5–$10. The Kinney Ranch, 769 N. Piedra Road, Sanger. (559) 696-2710
Summer Adventures With Growing Readers
By Alexis Treat, Senior Director of Curriculum & Resources at Lexia
FCome Learn and Play With Us!
California State EnrollYourChildToday!
or school-aged kids, the words summer break conjure thoughts of warm days, time with friends, and most importantly, no school! As essential as that free time is to a child’s physical and emotional development, passing the lazy summer days without some exposure to reading can result in what researchers call the “summer slide.” That’s not the name of an exciting waterpark ride; rather, it’s what researchers call the rapid loss of literacy skills over the summer that can take time to recoup once the school year rolls around. Fortunately, there are numerous fun reading adventures you can create with your child to maintain, and even improve, their reading development in the summer months!
Take a Trip to the Library
Check out your local library for free children’s programming throughout the summer. Many libraries have summer reading challenges that incentivize reading in the summer months to make it even more fun. You can support your child’s visual literacy and listening skills as well by checking out some of the other media libraries have to offer, like audiobooks and ebooks!
Visit ccparent.com/summer-reading for the list of programs near you.
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Marketplace ads range from $32–$75/month—perfect for any budget! Call (559) 435-1409 or email marketing@ccparent.com for a quote or more information.
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Carry Books Everywhere
You don’t have to go anywhere to enjoy a “vacation read.” Stash books in the car or the pool bag. Keep those library books and other reading material all over the house as well. Encourage your young bibliophile to choose texts that they enjoy reading—not just those on school summer reading lists including magazines, graphic novels, or even re-reads of their favorite stories.
Get Outside and Read
Pack some snacks and sunscreen and head outside with a picnic blanket. This simple change of venue to an outdoor space can make reading time feel special. Reading aloud to children of all ages is not only great for family bonding, but it also builds their vocabulary while reinforcing a love of reading. You can even take turns so you can sit back and relax while they read to you!
More Suggestions for Reading Adventures
Foundational Readers
Beat the Clock: Create pairs of cards, one card for each uppercase letter and one for each lowercase letter. Shuffle the cards and lay them face up on a table. Then, it’s time to beat the clock! Have kids make as many uppercase and lowercase letter matches as they can in a minute. See if they can name the letters after making a match!
Photo Booth: Reinforce sounds and letters with photos. Have your reader write their name and say each letter along with the sound it makes. Then, have them take photos of things that begin with those sounds. Try this activity with the names of friends and family members, too.
Intermediate Readers
Art Studio: Figurative language like similes and metaphors can be tricky: You are my sunshine. His brain is a sponge. She slept like a log. Have your reader illustrate these and other examples, and talk about how they help authors create pictures in the minds of readers. Look for more figurative language examples the next time you read together.
Act It Out: Knowing how nouns, verbs, and adjectives work in sentences not only helps kids become stronger readers, but also better writers. Make grammar fun for your reader by playing charades with these words—or think of your own! For it to count, players need to identify the part of speech as well as the word.
• Nouns: monster, scissors, baby, teacher, dog
• Verbs: sneeze, cry, sleep, dance, trip
• Adjectives: hot, cold, happy, strong
Fluent Readers
Super Sort: Words can be related to the same topic, but have different shades of meaning. The words cool, warm, hot, and boiling can all describe water, but cover a range of temperatures. Create sets of word cards using words like these, and have your reader sort them along each continuum, discussing the subtle differences in meaning.
• exhausted > drowsy > alert > energized
• drip > trickle > flow > gush
• dry > damp > soggy > drenched
Speak Up: Reading a poem aloud imparts the power of rhythm and rhyme. Have kids create a beat to go with a fun poem—just tapping on a table will work. Then, they can record themselves reading the poem in rhythm with the beat. Challenge other family members to try as well, and host a poetry slam.
Most of these activities at each level can be adjusted up or down to fit the needs of your growing reader. For example, you can put sets of synonyms and antonyms on cards to play Beat the Clock with intermediate or fluent readers. Or you can have foundational readers draw pictures of items they find in nature that correspond to each letter of the alphabet in an outdoor version of Art Studio.
There are so many ways to support your child’s literacy and reading development over the summer months. Every day can be an adventure in learning new skills, new words, new ideas, and in the process, discovering whole new worlds.
Visit the Summer Literacy Activities page at lexialearning.com for more fun science of reading-based activities that tap into your school-age child’s interests and imagination.
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.
