Growing Up Chico Spring 2021

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A quarterly resource celebrating family life in Butte County since 2004 Spring Issue 2021 February- March - April

Our Annual

WOMEN in BUSINESS Issue!

DIG THIS!

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Benefits of Gardening With Kids

Kids and Cell Phones Ways to Keep Kids Safe

Springtime

Arts and crafts, recipes, activities, and more

Cover Photo By: Park Avenue Photography (530) 521-4340 www.parkavenuephotos.com Park Avenue Photography specializes in Newborn, Maternity, and Children Photography. Visit their new studio at 1376 Longfellow Avenue in Chico.

Rob Baquera Rob Baquera is the Public Information Officer for the City of Roseville Police Department. Rob has years of experience working in public safety and specializes in crime prevention, emergency preparedness, and crisis communications. Rob has three young kids and knows first-hand that there is nothing more important than the safety of children.

On The Cover: Macy and her horse, Belle, enjoying a beautiful Spring day in Chico.

Kelly McGinnis Kelly is a “Certified Bring Baby Home Educator” and “Certified Incredible Coach.” She has been helping parents for the past 14 years. She enjoys helping parents move from frustration to fascination and restore joy and peace to homes across the country.

She is married and has the privilege to be called Mom by her three beautiful girls. To find out more about all that Kelly offers, please visit www.shineonfamily.com.

Marne Larsen Publisher marne@growingupchico.com (530) 518-6154

Kerrie McLoughlin

DeAnna Holman Layout Design/Editor

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For Advertising Information, Contact Rachele Thompson: (530) 519-0320 rachele@growingupchico.com Advertising Deadline: To advertise in our upcoming Summer Issue, please contact us by March 31st. Our Summer Issue will be on stands May, June, and July.

Article and Photo Submission Deadline: Please submit family-friendly and seasonally appropriate photos and informative articles for the Summer Issue by March 20th.

Growing Up Chico Magazine is published quarterly and available, free, at over 200 family-friendly locations throughout Butte County. We are also available online at www.growingupchico.com.

Kerrie is a writer, wife, and homeschooling mom to her five kids. She likes podcasts, traveling with her family, and walking while listening to music. She also likes to swim in her backyard pool, go on dates with her husband, and go on impromptu field trips with the kids. You can find her TheKerrieShow.com.

Allison Hopkins Allison is a freelance writer who loves to interview people and tell their stories. Her goal is to use her writing to help others. She enjoys traveling with her husband and their 12-year-old son. You can find her at www.editsbyalli.com.

Janeen Lewis Janeen is a nationally published writer, teacher, and mom to Andrew and Gracie. Gardening with kids is one of her favorite pastimes.

Copyright © 2021 by Growing Up Chico Magazine. All rights reserved.

Reproductions without permission are prohibited. Articles and advertisements found in Growing Up Chico Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management. We reserve the right to edit. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.

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School and Home

08 Consider Psychiatry for Your Child

10 Kids and Cellphones: Safety Advice 11 Ways to Eat Organic on a Budget 12 Guide to Education Alternatives

Kids and Cell Phones

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Family Time

14 GUC’s Writing Contest Winner

16 10 Big Benefits of Gardening With Kids

14

Women in Business

18 GUC’s Annual Spotlight on Local Business Women

Parenting

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22 Discover the Magic of a Family Meeting

Spring Fun

24 At-Home Spring Break Schedule

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25 Kids Art Contest Winners!

26 Spring Puzzles

28 Matching Game

29 Kids Can Cook Recipe Winners

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In Every Issue

04 Contributors 21 Local Resources 30 Preschool Directory 31 Advertiser Directory

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school and home

Love Your Child Enough to Consider Psychiatry Dr. Ramirez-Moya shares the importance of an early diagnosis and psychiatry treatment in adolescents

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growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

By Allison Hopkins

Dr. Lorerky Ramirez-Moya is devoting her life to diagnosing and treating mental health issues in children and in adults who have developmental disabilities and need psychiatric care. She is also a wife and mother of two kids, who is making sure her 11-year-old autistic son is getting the one-on-one education he needs. I can sense her energy, and passion for her job and it is very apparent that hard work is nothing new to this woman, who is a native of Costa Rica, and the first generation of her family to go to college. It is unfortunate that so many families are continuing to choose her service as a last resort, and often not at all.

“When a child comes to me, the first thing the parent says is ‘I am here because I’ve tried everything you can imagine…I am here because I have no choice,’” says Ramirez-Moya. “We have a lot of work to do in this fight against the stigma of seeking psychiatry treatment.”

Most of Ramirez-Moya’s patients are 4 to 17-year-olds and she is working tirelessly to educate their parents that depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder are diseases that need to be treated, just like every other disease.

Once they understand, then she can teach them about the right steps to take at home (if your child is panicking, help them to breathe versus telling them they are fine). “The more we know, the better we will be at advocating for our children,” she says.

It’s time that we listen.

Ten Take-Aways from My Meeting with Dr. Ramirez-Moya at Community Psychiatry, California’s Largest Outpatient Mental Health Organization 1. There are three major things to watch for in your child regarding their mental health: Insomnia (taking 2-4 hours to fall asleep at night), a change in grades/failing class, and isolating themselves.

2. Children need 9-10 hours of sleep and it needs to be at night. The pandemic has resulted in a lack of schedule for many kids, who are staying up late on social media and sleeping during the day. Some of her patients who were stable have regressed.

3. Anxiety can become noticeable starting around age 11; depression around ages 16-17. “Before 11, it’s all tantrums,” says Ramirez-Moya. “There’s not enough language skills, and it’s ‘I’m afraid to go outside, and I’m afraid something bad is going to happen to my family.’ Something happens at 11…parents start seeing more clear symptoms of anxiety, like social anxiety. Around 16 years old, parents can start seeing the first symptoms of depression, such as low motivation, insomnia, and irritability.”

4. You might think your child’s attitude is just who they are.

Your child may believe that as well. “I explain to them that their symptoms are making them feel sick,” says RamirezMoya. “Parents think he is just a miserable guy. I explain that he is miserable because he has a disease.”

5. Adolescents don’t like to be alone in the house. Her patients say that they feel better around other people.

6. Parents have a lot of fear about the FDA’s black box warning on antidepressants which states that the medication can cause suicides. Ramirez-Moya encourages parents to use National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI.org) as a resource and mentions that we need more research to understand this side effect. “How many children are we losing by suicide because the parents were so concerned about the black box warning?” she questions.

“If we educate parents about the efficacy of early treatment of mental illness, we will be able to reach more children and change the prognosis, helping more kids become future productive adults.”

7. There are four FDA-approved mental illness medications for children: Celexa, Lexapro, Zoloft, and Prozac. “We have been using antidepressants for 60 years in children and we have not found any significant long-term side effects,” says Ramirez-Moya. “Sometimes, they [parents] are not concerned to start anti-psychotic or ADHD medications for their child when the medication is prescribed by other providers. I have more concerns for short and long-term side effects with those medications.” She explains that antipsychotics are being used to treat children who are easily agitated or experience extreme anxiety.

8. If you can treat a mental illness earlier, the outcome is always going to be the best. 90% of the families who come to her office have no other options. They have tried supplements, diets, and possibly psychotherapy, but they are embarrassed to go to a psychiatrist, or they might have a cultural belief against it. “What we see now is those kids who were not diagnosed found alcohol and marijuana,” she says. “Then they self-medicate themselves. That’s what we want to prevent.”

9. Kids are afraid to see a psychiatrist because they will have to tell their story again. Ramirez-Moya explains to the child that she is a doctor who follows protocols and treats diseases the same way their pediatrician does. “Children are very concrete thinkers and as psychiatrists we have to be very straightforward with how to ask children questions,” she explains.

A conversation might start as follows: Doctor: Are you depressed?

Child: No. Doctor: Tell me from 1 to 10 how much energy you have every day. Think about kindergarten when you woke up so happy.

Child: Okay, that was a 10.

Doctor: Think about the worst day when you didn’t want to get out of bed.

Child: Okay, that was a 0.

10. The best part of her job is if she can wean a patient off medication and they have been off for six months without any symptoms. “The best day of my life is when I discharge them [patients] from the office and I say bye,” she says, explaining that this is the ultimate goal.

I’m honored to have met Dr. Ramirez-Moya, who is caring for the kids in our community and working each day to fight the stigma against psychiatry care associated with mental illness. If it reaches one parent and benefits one kid, this is a success.

For more information, please visit communitypsychiatry.com or call (855) 427-2778.

school and home www.growingupchico.com growing up chico magazine 10

Kids & Cell Phones

By Rob Baquera, Public Information Officer, Roseville Police Department

If you have a pre-teen, you may have already heard them ask the question, “May I have a cell phone?” Your child may be pestering you about getting a phone, and you may be wondering what age is the most appropriate for them to get one. Many parents give their child a cell phone for safety reasons and the peace of mind of knowing their child can call them at any time. However, parents also need to realize the potential dangers that exist with a cell phone.

Cyberbullying, predators, and scams are just a few.

When is the right time for your child to get their first cell phone?

That’s the big question, and there’s no clear cut answer. If your child is always with you or a trusted adult, he/she should not need a cell phone. When kids start to walk to school by themselves or are without supervision, then they may need a cell phone. Many parents consider a phone when a child is in middle school. At this age, kids are becoming more independent and are often involved in after school activities. According to a Nielsen report released in February 2017, approximately 45 percent of U.S. children between the ages of 1012 had their own smartphone with a service plan.

Keeping Kids Safe on Their cell Phones Fortunately, there are things parents can do to keep their child safe. One effective tool is to set up parental controls. This will allow parents to monitor their kid’s phone use, determine which sites and apps their child can access, and set time limits on their child’s device.

A cell phone can be a great safety tool, but like any tool, it is important to teach children how to use it safely. Here are some tips from Scholastic.com to help you get started: 1. Start Simple: Show your child how to use their phone, pointing out valuable features like the key lock, vibrate, and alarm. Program the speed dial with your contact information and other emergency numbers. For extra security, consider buying one of several models designed just for kids. Some require parents to enter all phone numbers, so kids can only send and receive calls from approved individuals.

2. Limit Usage: Designate time slots for talking or texting— perhaps after homework and chores are completed or before dinner.

3. Teach Responsibility: Make sure your child understands a cell phone is not a toy.

Explain the fees associated with text messages, data use, games, apps, and sharing photos.

4. Keep it Private: Instruct your child to use caution when giving out their number.

Phones should only be used to communicate with people they know in the real world.

5. Assess Before Answering: Teach your child not to answer calls or text messages from unrecognized numbers. Explain how to block calls from unwanted numbers.

6. Exercise Etiquette: In addition to enforcing your own rules, make sure your child respects the rules of other establishments. Phones should be turned off or silenced at hospitals, movie theaters, and restaurants, for example. Restrict use during after-school activities or on the bus. Know what your child’s school permits for students’ use of cell phones.

When you finally decide to give your child a cell phone, sit down, and talk with him/ her about your expectations. Establish specific and clear guidelines for acceptable phone usage and consequences if the rules are not followed. Know what your child is doing on their device, and keep the lines of communication open. By doing so, your child will feel comfortable coming to you with questions and problems that may arise.

10 Ways to Eat Organic on a Budget

By Kerrie McLoughlin

Do you wish you could feed your family organic foods, but when you see some of the price tags, your eyes pop out of your head?

Yeah, me, too. I recently set out to find ways to feed my large family organic foods on a tight budget. Here’s what I found out: 1. Local Produce. Hit the farmer’s market to help out some local farmers while you save money on organic items. You can also try Local Harvest to search for farms, farmer’s markets, CSA (community supported agriculture), and more.

2. Grow Your Own Organic Garden. Sounds hard, doesn’t it? Trust me, if I can do it with my two non-green thumbs, so can you. My husband is usually the gardener in our family, but one summer he was traveling for work, and the responsibility fell on me! I found out how easy it is to pull weeds and water tomatoes, carrots, and green beans. One day, I realized we had never bought any weedkiller or pesticides, which meant we basically had an organic garden. Even if you live in an apartment, you can grow herbs in a pot, have a patio garden, or even consider renting space out from a local gardener. Renting space is still cheaper than buying organic fruits and veggies from the leading natural foods market.

3. Coupons and Sales, Baby! Watch, wait, then POUNCE on those items your family loves when they go on sale, or when you have a sweet coupon. Combine coupons with sales for some extreme couponing and you’ll be dancing in the aisles! Pro tip: buy store brands instead of name brands if you don’t have a coupon.

4. Seasonal Items. Why pay $5/carton for organic strawberries when they can get as low as $1.50/carton in the good old summertime?

It’s easy to find out which fruits and vegetables are in season by visiting fromfieldtoplate.com.

5. Stock Up. When you find a good deal, stock up! You can get a good deal at a farmer’s market or find a sale at the natural foods market. It’s easy to freeze certain items while

you make jellies, jams, etc. with the rest. Can your own spaghetti sauce, carrots, beets, green beans, and more from what you grow yourself (sometimes you have way more than you can eat coming in all at once). Canning is easier than it sounds, and you can find a used pressure cooker or borrow one for a weekend.

Simply Canning has a wonderful site with many great resources, then hit YouTube for how-to videos.

6. Buy in Bulk. Because you’re not paying for packaging and name brands, some organic basics like cereal, grains, and beans are much cheaper when dispensed from a bulk container.

7. Skip the “Junk.” Organic graham crackers and fruit snacks cost a fortune, so try some carrots and hummus, or make your own yummy granola bars to save a bunch of green.

8. Eat Less Meat. Grass-fed beef and cage-free chicken can be quite costly! My kids don’t even notice when we don’t include meat in our meals for several days in a row. Consider a fancy grilled cheese, refried bean quesadillas, a Mexican quinoa salad, and so much more!

9. Make a Plan. A meal plan can make or break your budget. If you are running to the store several times a week without any idea of what you are going to make, it is easy to spend too much on other impulse purchases.

Sit down once a week and write out a plan to include the three basic meals of the day, plus snacks. Don’t forget to consider on-the-go items such as granola bars that you might need to bake, or organic juice boxes you have a coupon for.

10. Bake Your Own. We all need a good carb fix now and then. Rather than pay crazy baked-good prices, find a used bread machine for a steal, and make your own. It is so easy these days to get the dough ready, pop it in the machine, and just wait while your house fills up with the intoxicating aroma of baking bread. AllRecipes.com has tons of wonderful bread machine recipes that will impress your friends and family. Likewise, bake your own organic treats (think loaded muffins, energy balls, and granola bars) using organic flour, cocoa, oatmeal, etc. that you find for cheap using my tips above!

school and home

GUC’s Guide to

Education Alternatives

www.growingupchico.com

Inspire School of Arts & Sciences

Inspire School of Arts & Sciences is a tuition-free, public charter high school for students and families who think and learn outside of the box. We offer twelve majors for students wishing to hone skills in fields such as theatre, dance, engineering, humanities, and digital arts, as well as a range of electives that allow students to explore their passions and interests. Our approach to learning challenges young people to aim for excellence. Our smallschool environment and expert staff provide the support and encouragement to find success. This is learning, Inspired. Visit InspireChico.org to learn more.

335 W. Sacramento Avenue www.inspirechico.org 530-891-3090

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growing up chico magazine

Sherwood Montessori

Every child is a unique person with her or his own interests, skills, abilities, and personality. The Montessori approach facilitates individualized instruction with multiage groupings in an environment that naturally fosters a love for learning. Sherwood Montessori is a tuitionfree charter school with beautiful classrooms, engaging hands-on materials, and on-site, high-quality child care before and after school. Our transitional kindergarten/ kindergarten offers a shorter day or full-day option for families. We are committed to educating the whole child: intellectually, physically, and psychologically.

1010 Cleveland Avenue www.sherwoodmontessori.org 530-345-6600

Hooker Oak Elementary School

Hooker Oak Elementary School is a tuition-free, TK-5th grade public school that embraces a hands-on, thematic learning approach. Our thematic style promotes engaging, meaningful, and real-world contexts for standards-based teaching/learning across the curriculum. Classes spend time exploring fine arts, performances, choir, gardening, service projects, and go on several field trips throughout the year.

At Hooker Oak, families, teachers, and community join as partners to foster creative, confident and lifelong learners.

1238 Arbutus Avenue hookeroak.chicousd.org 530-891-3119

Wildflower Open Classroom

Grade: K-8 160 Students Student-Teacher Ratio: 22:1 Average Class Size: 22 Our mission is to enable students to flourish through the use of innovative curriculum and instruction that empowers them to reach their innate intellectual, creative, and leadership potentials. We endeavor to educate the “whole child” by addressing our students’ cognitive, social, emotional, and physical needs.

2414 Cohasset Road, Suite 3 info@wildflowerschool.com wildflowerschool.com 530-892-1676

CORE Butte Charter School

CORE Butte Charter School is a public personalized learning K-12 School. CORE places a strong emphasis on parental involvement, smaller class sizes, and one-to-one teacher/student interaction. We pay attention to students’ different learning styles and encourage student-driven participation in the learning process. We provide access to varied learning environments and a vast array of curriculum. We offer a wide variety of classes including enrichment, remediation, acceleration and math classes weekly. As a hybrid model, CORE’s High School students have the opportunity to attend classes 2-3 days a week and complete the remainder of their curriculum as independent study. We will conduct a random public drawing on Thursday, February 18th, for available spots in our TK-8 and High School programs for the 21-22 school year. Please visit www.corebutte. org for more information.

2871 Notre Dame Blvd www.corebutte.org 530-894-3952

Hope Academy

At Hope Academy, we recognize every child is uniquely created by God, and we address learning differences through personalized education. Our K-8 non-denominational Christian school program includes highly qualified credentialed teachers, small class sizes, and enrichment courses in the arts. Contact us at info@chicohopeacademy. com or call 530-518-4092 to schedule a tour! www.chicohopeacademy.com 530-518-4092

Blue Oak Charter School

At Blue Oak, our first priority is to provide an education that excites and interests the students. Our Waldorfinspired/Common Core-based curriculum helps develop a lifelong love of learning and prepares each child for active & ethical citizenship, critical thinking, self-awareness, creative imagination, & social responsibility.

Science and Social Studies are interconnected with English, Math, Art, Music, and movement through storytelling.

Kindergarten is play-based while the other classes loop, staying together with their teacher for 1st through 8th grade. This increases the teacher’s understanding of each student’s needs and builds the strength of relationships that last into high school and beyond. Specialty subjects include Spanish, Music, Handwork, Technology, and Games.

Monthly tours are offered. See the beauty only a Waldorfinspired education can provide.

450 W. East Avenue www.blueoakcharterschool.org 530-879-7483

Oak Bridge Academy

Oak Bridge Academy is a FREE K-12 online independent study program. We offer college prep courses, flexible online learning, and options for accelerated coursework. In addition, Oak Bridge Academy offers hybrid programs and is the only online learning academy that provides students with an opportunity to participate in clubs and sports at their Chico Unified School District neighborhood school. Experience the flexibility of online learning while still being a part of the Chico Unified school site community! Enroll today.

1950 East 20th Street oakbridge.chicousd.org 530-897-8877

Forest Ranch Charter School

Elevate your child’s education at Forest Ranch Charter School!

We are a free, public TK-8 charter, just a 15-minute drive from Chico, in the beautiful foothills of the Sierra Nevada. For your convenience, we provide FREE busing to and from Chico, every morning and afternoon. We offer: • High Academic Standards • Positive Social/Emotional Development • GATE classes, project-based learning, travel study trips • Electives including Outdoor Ed, Dance, Student Leadership, Visual & Performing Arts • After School Program offering Makerspace and Homework Club • Small class sizes for one on one learning Caring about you, your children, and your family since 2008!

15815 Cedar Creek Road, PO Box 5 Forest Ranch, CA, 95942 www.forestranchcharter.org 530-891-3154

Thrive

Thrive is open to kids After School and Homeschoolers, grades TK-12th. During these difficult times, kid’s need socialization, friends, and play more than ever! We offer hands-on STEAM *Science *Technology *Engineering *Art and *Math in a fun, engaging, child-centered environment. Small groups and kind, caring adults lead Wee Thrive (TK-1st), STEAM Play (K-6th), Project-Based Learning (ages 10-13), and Teen STEAM (ages 13-17). We love smiles!

Groups available: M/W or T/Th 9am to 1:30pm ($300 per month) or 2:30 to 5:30pm ($200 per month) 1361 Hawthorne Avenue www.ThriveChico.org 530-809-4638

All Along family time

By Avett, Age 5

Nature is good Nature is strong Nature keeps growing All Along Trees are big Trees are strong Trees are making leaves All Along

www.growingupchico.com

Bushes are big Bushes are strong Bushes are making berries All Along Bears are big Bears are strong Bears are scratching trees All Along

Growing Up Chico’s Creative Writing Contest

Winner!

Fishes are big Fishes are strong Fishes are swimming All Along Deer are big Deer are strong Deer are making antlers All Along Racoons are big Raccoons are strong Racoons are drinking water All Along

14 growing up chico magazine

Wolves are big Wolves are strong Wolves are hooooowling All Along Owls are big Owls are strong Owls are hunting All Along Nature is good Nature is strong Nature keeps growing All Along!

family time

Dig This:

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Big Benefits of Gardening With Kids

www.growingupchico.com

By Janeen Lewis

M

ost parents want their children to get outside away from phones, TV, and video games.

Gardening is a great way to achieve this goal. However, recent research shows that there are several other reasons to start a garden with kids. The benefits range from making kids smarter to making them healthier. Here are 10 great reasons to get kids gardening:

16 growing up chico magazine

1. Students who garden score higher on science tests.

Gardening is full of science. Children learn about plant classification, weather, soil, and plant pests, and disease. They are introduced to botany in a natural, handson way, and recent research shows that students who had gardening experiences as part of their school curriculum did better on standardized science tests than students who were not exposed to gardening in school.

2. If they grow it, they will eat it.

As a teacher, I’ve taught STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and have served as a Junior Master Garden club leader. In these roles, I witnessed the “if they grow it, they will eat it” phenomenon. Students love to dig up what they have grown, and then curiosity gets the better of them – they want to taste it.

Master Gardener Beth Tovi has volunteered to mentor students in the

garden for eight years at the elementary school where she has served as a media specialist. She sees the nutritional and health benefits children gain from gardening.

“With the growing concerns about obesity, diabetes, and even high blood pressure in children, gardening gets them physically active and outdoors. And children will eat anything they grow – even if it’s green.”

3. Digging in the dirt can make kids healthier.

Several studies show that children who were raised on farms don’t have as many respiratory allergies, asthma, or autoimmune disorders as children who were raised in urban areas because children who live on farms are exposed to more microbes and fungi in the dirt.

Letting children get outside and get in the dirt may actually make them healthier than keeping them tidy, clean, and inside.

4. Gardening strengthens emotional and interpersonal skills.

Children who garden learn responsibility, patience, perseverance, and how to deal with disappointment if the garden doesn’t grow the way they expected. How do they collaborate with other siblings, friends, or school mates to get the garden work done? These are character-building skills that research shows children reap in the garden.

I witnessed this one year at a school garden when we had a drought. Watering the plants and trying to keep them healthy was an arduous task, and the students and I learned about perseverance and teamwork.

5. Gardening connects children with nature.

When children garden, they gain ownership in what they are cultivating.

I have seen my own children grow “attached” to the plants in the containers on our patio garden. As children become more knowledgeable about all the living things in the garden, they are less likely to be afraid of touching the plants, getting soil on their hands, or being near bugs.

They are no longer afraid of the unknown when they become familiar with what is in the garden.

6. Gardening helps relieve stress for the whole family.

A garden can be therapeutic. Not that your fourth grader is battling traffic, raising children, and feeling the demands of a pressure-ridden job, but even kids can feel stress, and the garden is good for eliminating it. In fact, a study in the Netherlands showed that after 30 minutes of gardening, subjects who had shown stress before they gardened had a “fully restored” positive mood. And if the adults in the family are feeling stressed, and they garden with their children, it can help the whole family feel more harmonious.

7. Gardening teaches kids to problem-solve.

“When they garden, children learn problemsolving skills,” Tovi says. “They say ‘This trellis doesn’t work very well. How can we make one that will better support this kind of plant?’”

In a garden, children ask questions like “What is eating this plant?” or “Is this tree dying?”

Once children become absorbed in solving the problems in a garden, they want to research to find the best answers. “They become sleuths, starting in the garden and heading into the computers,” Tovi says.

8. Gardening is a good work out.

Gardening is good physical labor involving muscles that don’t always get a workout. Even the most seasoned gym-goer may admit to being sore the day after working in a garden.

Gardening involves stretching, bending, digging, lifting, pulling, and raking. Gross and fine motor skills are used, and even the youngest gardener with simple tasks gets physical activity.

9. Gardening helps children become environmental stewards.

When children start reaping the food and flowers that come from a garden, they realize a garden’s impact on them and their impact on the garden. Once they have this tangible experience, it is much easier to teach them to care for the environment.

10. Gardening can lead to a longer life.

Studies show that adults who garden in their later years live longer. Instead of living a sedentary life, gardeners get off the couch and are active in nature. Teaching children good habits when they are young will make them more likely to follow them through life.

Sow the seeds of a garden with your child today, and see them reap the benefits for a lifetime.

Creative Theme Gardens to Grow with Kids These interesting themes are a great way to inspire children to garden.

Pizza Garden - Grow all the herbs to add to a pizza. For an extra touch, make the garden round like a pizza.

Fairy Garden - This garden includes both plants and miniature structures and is a great place for your child’s imagination to grow.

Pollinator Garden - Build a garden that attracts butterflies, bees, birds, bats, and other insects and animals that will help pollinate plants. Try planting milkweed, zinnias, and snapdragons.

Herb Garden - Herb gardens are a great way to foray into the world of gardening.

They can be grown inside or outside and include plants such as basil, oregano, sage, thyme, parsley, and many more.

Art Garden - Students can grow flowers and plants that can be used to make art, or grow a garden of plants for kids to sketch.

Maze Garden - Create a maze with hedges, grasses, or corn. In the middle of the maze, put something interesting like a sculpture, fountain, or another special garden bed.

Peter Rabbit Garden - Grow the vegetables found in Mr. McGregor’s garden. The great thing about this garden is that you can grow some of the vegetables – carrots, lettuce, radishes, and cabbage – in cool weather, so you could continue to garden into fall.

Salsa Garden - Grow tomatoes, peppers, and onions to make a delicious salsa.

Wildflower Garden - Visit a nature preserve to discover the native wildflower plants in your area. Then, build a garden with those flowers.

Three Sister’s Garden - Teach children about plants that grow well together, like corn, beans, and squash, by cultivating the three in one mound.

No Yard? No Problem!

When your backyard is a concrete patio or an apartment balcony, it is hard to imagine growing a bountiful garden. But it can be done in containers. Choose some eco-friendly containers with drainage holes in the bottom, fill them with a potting mix, and choose seeds or seedlings to plant.

Another option is to grow an herb garden inside on a sunny window ledge.

A great resource for starting a container garden is The Vegetable Gardener’s Container Bible: How to Grow a Bounty of Food in Pots, Tubs, and Other Containers by Edward C. Smith.

This book teaches even beginning gardeners how to grow organic food in small spaces. The book covers container and tool selection, caring for plants, and controlling pests without chemicals.

With a little research and tender care, you can grow flowers and vegetables that flourish.

women in business www.growingupchico.com

Miste Cliadakis AIF®, CWS® Financial Advisor

Women in

Business

growing up chico magazine

Are your current financial plans and investment strategies on track? Do you understand your investments and do you know how and why they were selected?

Contact Miste to learn more about her services and arrange a complimentary second opinion consultation.

Dr. Kimberly Lange Youthful Smiles Dentistry for Children and Teens

Dr. Kim Lange of Youthful Smiles has been practicing in the Chico area for 20 years and loves every minute of it. She is a general dentist who has limited her practice to children and teens. Her main goal is to make dentistry as fun and comfortable as possible for her young patients.

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Miste Cliadakis, founder of Altum Wealth Advisors, has been providing financial planning and investment management services for individuals, families, and independent women for over 20 years. She is an investment fiduciary and focuses on making the complex world of investing understandable.

Dr. Lange aims to build trust with her young patients by showing and explaining the procedures to help eliminate the fear associated with dentistry. In addition, children can even watch a movie while getting their teeth fixed.

At Youthful Smiles the latest techniques and materials are utilized. Dr. Lange has been certified in Laser Dentistry and is now incorporating it into her practice.

650 Rio Lindo Avenue, Suite 4 Chico, CA 95926 www.youthfulsmileschico.com 530.343.3137

Jamie Kalanquin Thistle & Stitch

Jamie is the creator and owner of Thistle & Stitch, a handmade retail and custom embroidery shop grown out of her love for the outdoors, adventures, and all things plaid. She is inspired by the history of Scottish tartans as well as flannel-loving outdoor enthusiasts.

While Jamie, her husband, and active 4 year old hope to return to attending Scottish Festivals and local events again soon, in the last year her business has shifted to primarily online sales while also incorporating mask making in fun tartan and Scottish themed patterns.

Sewing since five years old, she creates her wares with skill and creativity. Browse her signature flannel plaid infinity and blanket scarves in over one hundred patterns as well as locally handcrafted housewares and gifts by visiting the Thistle & Stitch shop in Chico or online.

1074 East Ave., Suite T1 Chico CA 95926 www.AltumWealth.com 530.924.0110

2565 Zanella Way Ste. E Chico, CA 95928 thistleandstitch.com thistleandstitchshop@gmail.com 530.524.5008

Mandie Burson

Panda Mae Bell

Kinetics Academy of Dance, Owner/Director

Mandie Burson is the owner and director of Kinetics Academy of Dance in downtown Chico. As a former dancer, gymnast and cheerleader, Mandie is passionate about providing well-rounded physical activities for the community. Kinetics has provided 20 years of family-friendly dance experiences.

Home to the original Baby Ballet Program, children as young as one can partake in imaginative dance with storylines, props and costumes. Kinetics is proud to offer a dance/ life balance, allowing a choice of involvement level. The studio provides performance opportunities like their free Christmas show and end-of-year productions like the 2019 show, “The Wizard of Oz”. Among a wide variety of dance classes for all ages and abilities, Kinetics offers camps, special events, fairy and princess birthday tea parties and has an adorable shop called the “Fairy Cottage” on site stocked full of dance attire, toys and novelties.

627 Broadway St., #100 Chico, CA 95973 www.KineticsAcademyofDance.com 530.345.2505

Bless Your Heart Mercantile

Bless Your Heart Mercantile is a lifestyle shop in downtown Orland, we offer a wide variety of unique home goods, gifts, jewelry, clothing and accessories, and locally made items!

Supporting our fellow women owned businesses and community is a top priority for BYHM! We currently have over 10 women consigners who sell their goods in our shop and love giving back to our community whenever we can!

Thank you to our amazing customers for your love and support especially during these crazy times! We appreciate you!

701 4th Street Orland, Ca 95963 Facebook.com/blessyourheartmercantile Instagram: blessyourheartmercantile 530.520.4835

Francean Kennedy Angels With Heart

Francean, founder of the local nonprofit group Angels With Heart, has been helping our community since 2017. Francean along with her children and good friend Rebecca Smith, run Angels With Heart.

Angels With Heart is committed to investing their expertise and resources in order to further achieve their cause. Since 2017, they been supporting community members in a variety of ways and measuring our success not by monetary size, but by more qualitative measurements such as the scale and effectiveness of their efforts. Angels With Heart provides community service, support services and much more. See their website or give them a call to see how they can help you.

Just imagine what we can achieve together! angelswithhearts@yahoo.com www.AngelsWithHeart.com 530.321.6809

Heather Cooper,

Jennifer Serna, &

Shari Dixon,

Mary Chin My Oven’s Meals

Mary Chin is the Chef/Owner of My Oven’s Meals. She has been cooking professionally since 2008. She has worked in numerous kitchens throughout the Bay Area, including Michelin Star restaurant, Terra. After moving to Chico and having two kids, Mary missed her culinary passion and started her own business.

My Oven’s Meals, M.O.M is a farm-to-table prepared meal company. M.O.M. meals are always gluten-free, soy-free, and use zero refined sugars. M.O.M. provides healthy, balanced meals that are ready to eat, so you don’t have to cook. We save you time & energy at home.

We are here to make your week easier, delivering nutritious meals to your door each week! The menu changes weekly, and you can order online with ease! You can also find us Wednesday and Saturday at the Chico Certified Farmers’ Market.

M.O.M. works directly with local farmers to bring you fresh, seasonal, organic, and humanely raised products. M.O.M. has been serving Chico for over three years. www.MyOvensMeals.com info@MyOvensMeals.com 530.350.5445

Becky Brown

Principal/Superintendent of Inspire School of Arts & Sciences

Han Mai

Instant Nails & Spa

My family and I came to the United States in 1996. In 2001, our family took over Instant Nails and Spa when my father’s cousin retired. I attended Chico State University and had a beautiful daughter before I took over management of Instant Nails and Spa. We really appreciate our loyal customers, as many of them have been faithful customers for over 15 years. We offer a wide variety of services at Instant Nails & Spa like Spa Pedicure’s, Nails, Facials, Waxing and more.

Walk-ins are welcome and gift certificates are available.

2 Williamsburg Lane Chico, CA 95928 Follow us on Facebook 530.899.0553

Emily Mellon &

Jessica Peck Once Upon A Child

Heather Gorman

Willow & Birch Realty

In a time of global uncertainty, 4 women looked toward an unsettling future & made the bold decision to take their business into their own hands. Shari Dixon, Jennifer Serna, Heather Cooper & Heather Gorman invested in themselves, their families & their future. Building community through building a brokerage. With 55 years of combined experience, these women strive to provide their clients with excellence. Real estate is not merely a transaction, but a step toward achieving your financial goals. At Willow & Birch Realty, we take your real estate needs to heart & look forward to handing you the keys to your future!

121 W 4th Ave Chico, CA 95926 www.WillowBirchRealty.com 530.592.3477

Becky Brown is Principal/Superintendent of Inspire School of Arts & Sciences, where she is privileged to learn something new every day.

Armed with a Masters in English and a teaching credential from CSU, Chico, Principal/ Superintendent Brown was originally hired as an English teacher at Inspire in its first year as a school where she taught American Literature, AP Language and Composition, Creative Writing and History of Rock for 8 years.

Returning as a fresh administrator, and emboldened with the goal that each Inspire student graduates with a vision of their future, Principal/Superintendent Brown is driven by her passion for human-centered education-nurturing all facets of the human experience to foster a love for lifelong learning. She firmly believes in the unlimited potential of young folks, and invites you to join Inspire in actualizing that potential.

335 W Sacramento Ave Chico, CA 95926 www.InspireChico.org 530.891.3090

Once Upon A Child offers parents a fun and convenient way to buy and sell gently used kids’ items. You will find clothing, toys, baby furniture and equipment that is affordable and very high quality. We want our families to know that we focus on the quality, safety and value of all items that you need in your home while raising your family.

Thank you everyone who has supported us through our first 6 months, in a very “interesting time” to start a business. We truly appreciate your support.

801 East Ave, Ste 106 Chico, CA 95926 www.onceuponachildchico.com 530.592.3824

women in business www.growingupchico.com

Julie Gonzales

Chico Creek Dance Centre

Women in

Business

growing up chico magazine

PhD, LE, CPE Chico Electrolysis Center

Julie, along with her husband, Jake, are the owners of Chico Creek Dance Centre. They took over as new owners in May of 2019.

They have the wonderful opportunity to still work alongside Artistic Director Debbie Jorritsma and help grow the dance studio for our community and dancers. Julie started out working for Debbie 9 years ago helping with costumes for performances at the studio.

Her job increased over the years in helping to head up the costume department for the full-length ballets for Chico Community Ballet and other administrative roles. She has enjoyed designing and creating beautiful costumes for their pre-professional program.

If you need unwanted hair removed permanently or want to reduce lines on your face with skin rejuvenation that increases natural collagen and elastin, call Chico Electrolysis Center.

Chico Creek Dance Centre’s extraordinary team of instructors provides dance classes for all ages, all levels, and all styles.

Schedule an appointment or consultation with Chico Electrolysis Center at 519-8111.

1144 W. 1st Street Chico CA 95928 www.chicocreekdancecentre.com 530.893.9028

Tammie Harvey Taming Tangles

I am a mom to 3 amazing kids and a foster mom as well. I love kids and animals. I’m originally from the Bay Area but have lived in Chico since 2008. When I found out Cool Kidz Cuts had closed I just had to reopen it for our kids and community. Since doing that in 2018 I have now relocated and renamed the salon to Taming Tangles!!!

20

Jacqueline Kowtko

Taming Tangles is an appointment-based salon that specializes in Children’s Cuts and Styles of all ages. We offer a wide range of Hair Services for Parents, as well as a wide range of exceptional Kid Products, Services and Gifts. Taming Tangles is a wholesome, clean, and fun-filled experience for the whole family. We look forward to taking care of your family’s hair care needs!

1360 Longfellow Ave. Chico, CA 95926 www.TamingTangles.com 530.897.0123

Feel your best, look your best!

Jacqueline is a Harvard graduate and Certified Professional Electrologist. She is recommended by local dermatologists and physicians who have seen the results of her work. Her commitment to excellence has brought her through thirteen successful years serving the north state.

2619 Forest Ave, Suite 110 Chico, CA 95928 www.chicoec.com 530.519.8111

Sudha Dusanapudi DDS

Dr. Sudha Dusanapudi is an American Board of Orthodontics certified orthodontist at Premier Orthodontics, Chico. She provides quality orthodontic treatment in a comfortable, caring and professional manner.

Dr. Dusanapudi loves creating healthy and beautiful smiles for both kids and adults. She feels fortunate to be in a profession that has a direct and positive impact on the lives of our patients.

She obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of Detroit Mercy, and continued to attend Harvard School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her MMSc Master of Medical Sciences/Orthodontics.

Dr. Dusanapudi is a member of California Association of Orthodontists, and American Association of Orthodontists. She enjoys reading, painting and hiking at national parks in her free time.

1910 East 20th Street Chico, CA 95928 www.premierorthodontics.com 833.306.7846

Your guide to free or low-cost family resources in Butte County!

Parenting Resources Adoptive Parent Support Group Join us in sharing, learning, and supporting each other with the joys & challenges of adoption.

895-6143 Butte Baby Steps The Butte Baby Steps program is a national program model designed to help expectant and new parents get their children off to a healthy start. The program serves Butte County families.

Butte Baby Steps is open to parents of all ages that are either expecting or have a child under the age of 3 months. 345-1600, nvcss.org/ programs/butte-baby-steps/ Butte College Foster/Kinship Education For more info and a current workshop schedule, call 897-6235.

Butte County Library 891-2762, www.buttecounty.net/bclibrary.

Butte County Mothers of Multiples 899-1538 or www.buttecountymoms.com.

Chico Area Park & Recreation District (CARD) Recreational activities and programs year-round include programs for children, adults, and seniors. Sports, camps, afterschool program, preschool program, and leisure activities are offered. 895-4711, 545 Vallombrosa Ave., www. chicorec.com Chico Mothers Club Find them on Faceboook or go to www.chicomothersclub.org for more info.

Durham Recreation & Park District Offering many sports, classes/lessons, and programs for all ages. 345-1921, durhamrecreation.recdesk.com Enloe Mother & Baby Outreach Program 332-5520 or online at www.enloe.org/baby.

HelpCentral.org You can find services such as emergency food, parenting classes, recreational programs, support groups, drug treatment, tax assistance, in-home help, after school programs, hospice, counseling, and subsidized daycare. www.helpcentral.org

Help Me Grow Help Me Grow gives parents, caregivers, child care providers, early educators, and healthcare providers an easy way to get connected with services for children under the age of five living in Butte County. Connects young children and their families to developmental and behavioral services and promotes regular developmental screening for children living in Butte County. Call 211 or visit www.helpmegrowbutte.org.

Northern Valley Catholic Social Service, Inc. Provides low-cost or free mental health, housing, vocational and support services to individuals and families in California’s Northern Sacramento Valley. (800) 846-1451, www.nvcss.org.

Paradise Recreation & Park District PRPD offers a wide range of recreation programming, including after school programming, summer camp, preschool activities, youth and adult sports, senior services, aquatics, teen programs, and numerous special events. 872-6393, www.paradiseprpd.com Valley Oak Children’s Services A Resource and Referral Program that provides free referrals to child care and other familyrelated services. Low-Income parents can call and get on the Centralized Eligibility List for preschool and subsidized child care in Butte County. Call 895-3572 or 1-800-345-8627 or visit valleyoakchildren.org for more information.

WIC A program that provides supplemental food vouchers and nutrition education to pregnant and breastfeeding women and infants and children up through age five who qualify in Butte County.

The WIC staff provides parent education about nutrition, breastfeeding, child safety, growth/ development, and other child-appropriate topics.

891-2767, www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/ Programs/WIC

Special Needs ARC Support Group Families who experience the challenges that come along with raising a child with a special need are invited to this support group hosted by ARC of Butte County. Tuesdays. 891-8157.

Far Northern Regional Center A fixed point of referral for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

FNRC also provides services to infants and toddlers (from birth to three years old) who are showing a delay in their development or who are at substantially high risk for a developmental disability. FNRC coordinates community resources such as education, recreation, health, rehabilitation and welfare for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Hydrocephalus Association Support Group An opportunity to meet others connected to hydrocephalus. All ages are welcome! Last Saturday of every other month at 3:30pm, Chico, contact 591-9512, nethertonhydro@hotmail.com.

Little Red Hen LifeSpan Center This nonprofit organization offers year-round socialization training programs for children, teens & young adults with an autism spectrum disorder.

Unique & exciting programs teach children the skills needed to integrate into the community successfully. Programs target communication, play skills, group participation, & positive peer interactions. Provides sensory exploration & behavioral support in a fun & engaging environment. www.littleredhen.org/lifespan-center. html. 897-0300.

Work Training Center Dedicated to meeting the training, vocational & recreational needs of people ages 18 & up with disabilities. 2255 Fair St. www.wtcinc.org. 3437994.

Parent Infant Programs A developmental program designed for children diagnosed at birth with a regional center qualifying condition or children at risk of developing those qualifying conditions. 343-8106, www.parentinfantprograms.com.

Rowell Family Empowerment of Northern California We provide support, education, and advocacy services to families with children ages birth to 26 with special education needs living in Northern California. For information on trainings and support groups, please call the Chico office at (530)899-8801 and toll-free 888-263-1311 or www.rfenc.org. Hablamos Español.

The Enloe Health Learning Center A community library. We invite you to browse a broad array of health and medical information.

Learn more about a disease or disorder affecting a family member, research a medical diagnosis, or find wellness information. A free library card gives you access to health care information through books, periodicals, www.enloe.org/ library.

Wings of Eagles Provides emotional and financial assistance to all families in the four-county areas of Butte, Glenn, Tehama, and Colusa who have children with a pediatric cancer or a life-threatening illness diagnosis. The Joseph Alvarez Organization for Seriously Ill Children. 893-9231.

Have a resource for us?

Do you know of a resource you would like to see listed, or does a listin g need to be updated? Let us know!

Email us: marne@growingupchico.com

For More Resources Visit www.GrowingUpChico.com

Discover the Magic of a Family Meeting

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

parenting

By Kelly McGinnis

M

any clients have admired family meetings from a distance, but they do not know how to implement them in their own families.

Other clients have questioned this idea of sitting down as a family wondering, “Why in the world would we do that?”

growing up up chico chico magazine magazine 2222 growing

The research is strong regarding the benefits of family meetings, especially in this fast-paced, hectic world. Some of the benefits include taking time to really connect, building a child’s self-esteem, learning compromise and cooperation, understanding other people’s perspectives, and giving children value and purpose.

By including children in decision-making and problem solving, they feel like they have a voice and are more connected to the family. They learn to consider more than just their own perspective and they feel they have a responsibility to the group, not just their own well-being. This is one of the largest predictors of success in later years.

Here are 5 simple steps to creating a great family meeting in your home. I strongly encourage you to make time and space in your family schedule to incorporate this beneficial parenting tool.

1. Choose a natural time and place. So often, when we think about family meetings, we think that it must be formal both in location and process. The exact opposite is true. Family meetings should be casual and comfortable for both parents and kids. Take into consideration the time that most of the family will be engaged. Try to avoid times when your family is hungry, tired, or there are added stressors happening. The more natural it feels, the more natural the conversation will feel. Some great places to hold your family meeting include around the dinner table, sitting on the couch, outdoors, or away at a special family location.

2. Decide on the purpose in advance. It is important to establish an objective before you schedule the family meeting. Is this meeting to discuss an on-going family conflict, or is this meeting to do some family goal planning? Determining a purpose ahead of time gives everyone a chance to think about their role in the meeting and what they hope to expect from the discussion. Some kids do not like being put on the spot, so the advanced planning allows for children to prepare and feel like they are not being rushed or pressured.

Family meetings can be held for a variety of reasons, including deciding on upcoming vacations, family

goal planning, awards, allowance, family financial talks/ decisions, as well as problem solving.

3. Give everyone time to share. Yes, this means even the littlest family member will get to weigh in on the family discussion! One of the biggest needs of children is to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance. What better way to show them that they belong than giving them a voice at the table. We as parents need to make a huge effort to listen to what our kids are sharing during this time and find ways that we can validate our children’s needs. This does not mean give them what they want. It simply means that we can empathize and acknowledge how they are feeling. This setting provides a safe place for our kids to express scary negative emotions.

4. Assign responsibility and discuss the means of measurement. Have you ever left a meeting and said to yourself, “Well that was a waste of time!”? Time is such an important commodity, and we want to be sure to honor each family member. When your family meeting is over, each person should have one action item and a way that they will be held accountable for that action item. An example of this might be a family meeting to discuss an upcoming trip.

One child might be assigned the task of researching places to visit, and the other child can create a family packing list.

Place a time-frame on the task and come back together to share. Remember the assignment does not always have to be correction based. Do not fall into the pits of negativity and always be looking for what is going wrong. Find what is going well!

5. Celebrate! Family meetings should not be 100% focused on fixing problems or discussing tough topics, although those items are important. Each family meeting should have time scheduled to build one another up. Some great ideas to try include: sharing how you saw one another use their strengths since the last family meeting, award humorous prizes that can be voted on by all family members, play fun music and have a 5 minute dance party, dress up when attending the family meeting, or serve a special treat during the family meeting. Anything that encourages connection and joy within the family will make the overall experience more enjoyable for all. This will also motivate you to consistently schedule family meetings; it is a time to have fun as well as motivate our kids and align the family goals.

Family meetings are a powerful tool for both parents and children. If you are interested in incorporating your parenting strengths or the strengths of your children into your next family meeting, please visit my website www.shineonfamily.com and click on the button that says “Take the Incredible Parent Assessment.”

Kelly McGinnis is a “Certified Bring Baby Home Educator” and “Certified Incredible Coach.” She has been helping parents for the past 14 years. She enjoys helping parents move from frustration to fascination and restore joy and peace to homes across the country.

She is married and has the privilege to be called Mom by her three beautiful girls. To find out more about all that Kelly offers, please visit www.shineonfamily.com.

www.growingupchico.com

spring fun

At Home Spring Break

09:00 AM

Storytime/ Reading

Storytime/ Reading

Storytime/ Reading

Storytime/ Reading

Storytime/ Reading

09:15 AM

Arts & Craft/ Sensory Play

Arts & Craft/ Sensory Play

Arts & Craft/ Sensory Play

Arts & Craft/ Sensory Play

Arts & Craft/ Sensory Play

10:00 AM

Snack

Snack

Snack

10:15 AM

Outside Play /Movement

Outside Play /Movement

Outside Play /Movement

Outside Play /Movement

Outside Play /Movement

11:00 AM

Puzzles/Games /Independent Play

Puzzles/Games /Independent Play

Puzzles/Games /Independent Play

Puzzles/Games /Independent Play

Puzzles/Games /Independent Play

12:00 PM

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Take A Trip Tuesday Visit a park, museum, bike ride, or a fun outing.

Wild Wednesday Research a wild animal you want to learn about.

Thinking Thursday Do a science experiment, check out a learning website, or make a wondering list.

Fun Friday Outdoor games/ activities or indoor obstacle course

24 growing up chico magazine

12:30 PM

Make It Monday Try a new recipe, craft, or build something.

Snack

Snack

Congratulations

to the Growing Up Chico & Growing Up Roseville Kids Art Contest Winners!

Jai, Age 9

Adi, Age 15

Chole, Age 8

Genesis, Age 7

Daisy, Age 8

Olya, Age 11

Josh, Age 9

Ember, Age 9

Cedra, Age 11

Madalynn, Age 11

Elena, Age 7

Adamaris, Age 4

Henry, Age 4

Rylan, Age 7

Hailey, Age 6

26 growing up chico magazine

Circle

5 differences

www.growingupchico.com

spring fun

Match the correct shadows below

Matching Game

28 growing up chico magazine

spring fun

Cut out the cards on this page to play your own matching or memory game!

www.growingupchico.com

Apple Pie Pockets

By Ruby, age 8

Very Veggie Pockets

By Avery, age 10

Ingredients: • 1 tube crescent dough • 1 cup veggies, finely chopped (We used red bell pepper, carrot, broccoli, & celery) • Shredded mozzarella cheese • Marinara sauce Instructions: Heat oven to 375 degrees (or according to instructions on dough). Cover baking sheet with foil and lightly spray surface with nonstick cooking spray. Cut dough into 4 pieces. Finely chop your favorite vegetables. We used red bell pepper, carrot, celery, and broccoli. Place a tablespoon of marinara sauce on dough pieces, add 1/4 cup vegetables, and top with shredded cheese.

Fold dough over to cover veggies and seal sides with a fork. Bake 10-13 minutes. Let cool before eating. Serve with more marinara or ranch on the side for dipping.

Ingredients: • 1 tube crescent dough • 1 apple, peeled and sliced thin (We used 1/2 a Granny Smith and 1/2 a Honeycrisp) • 2 Tablespoons butter, melted • 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Instructions: Pre heat oven to 375 degrees (or whatever your dough instructions are). Cover a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease pan with nonstick cooking spray. Slice apples thinly (we used a mandolin and a grown-up to help). In a bowl, place apples and toss with melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon.

Cut dough into desired size/shapes. Place a spoonful of apple mixture onto middle of dough. Cover with the top dough piece and pinch sides together to seal. Sprinkle top with cinnamon and sugar. Bake pie pockets for 10-13 minutes, until lightly golden brown on top.

Kids 14 and under are encouraged to send in their own healthy recipes.

Winning recipes will be featured in our next issue.

Winners will be awarded a $25 gift card!

DEADLINE: MARCH 15TH Send recipe & photo of prepared recipe to: marne@growingupchico.com.

directories

Pr e sc h o o l & C hildc are D irecto ry

Center

Ages

Hours

Curriculum

Contact

Little Sprouts Preschool

2-5 years

7am-5:30pm Monday-Friday

Nature ABCs

1-5 years, with parent

10am-11am Runs every Monday free of charge. Registration required to guarantee a spot as space will be limited.

Little Sprouts Preschool offers organic gardening and recycling. The Kindergarten readiness program has Zoo Phonics, daily circle time, and enrichment activities.

Nutritious snacks and lunch included.

15 Overland Ct. 345-0123 littlesproutspreschool1@gmail.com

3-5 years

9am - 1pm, runs in 6 week sessions on Tues, Weds, and Thursday, each day is a separate registration

License # 045405784

30 growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

Nature School

Runs every Monday free of charge. Due to limited space, registration is required to guarantee a spot with no more than one parent per child. Check our website for updates on dates.

An hour of fun free activities including an animal visit, story and song time, and a nature walk in Bidwell Park.

Check our website for updates on dates, days, and prices.

A first learning experience in nature with crafts, songs, games, animal visits, and guided exploration of Bidwell Park.

Chico Creek Nature Center 1968 E 8th Street 530-514-5730 www.chicorec.com/preschools

Chico Creek Nature Center 1968 E 8th Street 530-514-5730 www.chicorec.com/preschools

D-Diapers L-Lunch P-Parent participation T-Traditional school year A-After-school program S-Summer program Y-Year round program

D L Y S

A winner will be picked randomly on the 4th Wednesday of each month. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for reminders and information on upcoming giveaways or join our email newsletter for updates.

Enter to win a one-month family membership to In Motion Fitness! Enter once during February, March, and April for a chance to win!

Growing Up Chico is excited to announce our Win It Wednesday promotion! Every month, we will have a giveaway from one of the local businesses featured on this page. To enter to win, simply go to www.growingupchico.com/giveaways.

In Motion Fitness is a five-acre resort of pools and palm trees nestled in a luxurious Mediterranean resort setting. We offer Northern California’s largest selection of group exercise classes, fitness equipment, and aquatic facilities. We invite you to experience the world-class facilities, services, and programs that have made In Motion Fitness a nationally acclaimed fitness facility.

1293 East 1st Avenue, Chico 530-343-5678, www.inmotionfitness.com

Growing Up Chico’s Business Directory Without the support of our advertisers, this magazine would not be possible. If you do business with any of our advertisers, please be sure to let them know you saw their ad in Growing Up Chico Magazine.

Magazine.

Bacio: pg 5 Bless Your Heart Mercantile: pg 5, 18 Blue Oak School: pg 13 Chico Area Recreation and Park District: pg 3, 30 Chico Creek Dance Centre: pg 20, 23 Chico Electrolysis Center: pg 20 Chico Mother’s Club: pg 9 Chico Pediatric Dentistry: pg 9 Chico Unified School District: pg 3, 13, 15 Children’s Choice Dental Care: pg 20, 32 CORE Butte Charter School: pg 13 DeAnna Holman-ARBONNE: pg 2 Erica Callfas, Realtor: pg 30 Francene Kennedy: pg 19 Forest Ranch Charter School: pg 7, 13 Hooker Oak School: pg 12 Hope Academy: pg 13 In Motion Fitness: pg 2

Inspire School of Arts & Sciences: pg 12, 15, 19 Instant Nails: pg 9, 19 Kinetics Academy of Dance: pg 5, 18 Little Sprouts Preschool:

pg 15, 30 Miste Cliadakis, CWS®, AIF®: pg 18 My Oven’s Meals: pg 15, 19 Northern Valley Indian Health: pg 7 Once Upon A Child: pg 19 Park Avenue Photography: pg 15 Sherwood Montessori: pg 7, 12 Taming Tangles Hair Salon: pg 9, 20 The Human Bean: pg 5 Thistle and Stitch:

pg 7, 18 Thrive: pg 13 Wildflower Open Classroom: pg 12 Willow & Birch Realty: pg 19, 23 Youthful Smiles Dentistry: pg 7, 18