Growing Up Chico Winter 2020

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A quarterly resource celebrating family life in Butte County since 2004 Winter Issue 2020 November - December - January

KEEP IT LIGHT

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Ways to Simplify the Season

Winter Holiday Fun

Puzzles, Games, Recipes, and More!

Things We Love

Cover Photo By: Park Avenue Photography (530) 521-4340 www.parkavenuephotos.com

Emily Lee-Hajec Emily enjoys spending time outdoors with her kiddo, husband, and their Jack-uahua pooch. Her favorites include cooking (or at least attempting to), good conversation, and a solid cup of coffee.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Growing Up Chico.

‘Wishing you and yours a joyous holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!

Without the help of our advertisers, contributors, readers, and staff, we could not produce this magazine. We want to send out a heartfelt thank you for your support and for making this magazine possible.

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.

Happy reading!

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

Kara Haug

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Kara is a Sexual Health Educator and is a co-owner of her business called Reframing our Stories LLC. Kara spends her time teaching comprehensive sexual health to families, schools, and churches. It is passion to help people learn how to have these important conversations and to provide them with tools to have nourishing relationships.

DeAnna Holman Layout Design/Editor Allison Hopkins

For Advertising Information, Contact Rachele Thompson: (530) 519-0320 rachele@growingupchico.com Advertising Deadline: To advertise in our upcoming Spring Issue, please contact us by January 6th. Our Spring Issue will be on stands February, March, and April.

Article and Photo Submission Deadline: Please submit family-friendly and seasonally appropriate photos and informative articles for the Spring Issue by December 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.

Copyright © 2020 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.

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.

Placer County Moms Placer County Moms is an Instagram page filled with Placer County fun for families. Our page is full of family-friendly activities, products, and tips for all ages. We love to feature all the fun places and activities in and around Placer County. Please go check out placercounty.moms on Instagram to see our latest ideas!

Sumiti Mehta Sumiti is Sacramento-based mother to two boys. She is the Youth, Park, and Community Enrichment commissioner for City of Sacramento (D1). She serves on several Natomas Unified School District committees. She was a Guest Contributor for ABC 10 digital series “Moms Explain All” and “Three Moms and a Dad.” Sumiti has been nominated for the N Factor Community awards.

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School and Home

08 Local Business: Getting Creative 10 Raising Boys In A #MeToo Era 11 7 Things We Love Right Now 12 Inside The CUSD Bakery

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Family Time

14 10 Ways To Simplify The Season 16 Connect Through The Magic of Storytelling

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18 How To Be Your Child’s Emotion Coach

Parenting

20 Silent Night

21 Local Parenting Resources

22 Sami’s Circuit Goes The Distance

Winter Fun

24 DIY Fun Winter Activities

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26 Sensory Scavenger Hunt 27 Upcoming Events

28 Fun Winter Puzzles

29 Kids Can Cook Recipe Contest Winner

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31 31 Things To Do With Your Family This Winter

In Every Issue

04 Contributors 30 Preschool Directory 31 Advertiser Directory

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Winter Events

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growing up chico magazine

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school and home

Local Business 2020: Getting Creative During Covid By: Emily Lee Hajec

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wning a small business during Covid-19 has been nothing short of challenging. There is not a single organization that has not been impacted either financially or logistically. Whether it is a restaurant, salon, hotel, gym, or retail store (to name a few), local businesses have been hit hard by the mandates set forth to mitigate risk. Nevertheless, in the midst of all the challenges, many local business owners have sought creativity during Covid in order to stay afloat. Here are a handful of familyfriendly organizations that have pivoted and found unique ways to shift their business models in an effort to keep their doors open. We encourage you to support these efforts by visiting their websites below and keep your dollars in the community by shopping local this holiday season.

1. Chico Children’s Museum (CCM) Part of the CCM philosophy encourages families to be present in the moment, unplug from screen time, and interact with the world through play. Staying true to their philosophy throughout the pandemic, CCM has launched monthly themed “Arts & Crafts Kits,” which include a variety of materials children can use to construct a unique object or art piece. Reflecting the child’s own vision and understanding of the world, the kits include brief prompts with intentionally open-ended questions to facilitate self-expression. The kits require zero screen time and the cost for each kit is $35 (to be purchased individually or by subscription). Each month features a new theme, and kits are delivered (contact-free) right to the child’s front door. All kits are assembled at CCM by administration staff. For more information, visit www. chicochildrensmuseum.org/kits.

2. North State Ballet (NSB) & Chico Creek Dance (CCD) Many service-based businesses in Butte County have been forced to close their doors temporarily during the pandemic.

Well, sort of. The loophole to the mandated closures for many businesses such as gyms, restaurants, and salons is that they may offer their services outdoors-only. For dance studios like North State Ballet and Chico Creek Dance (two separate studios here in Chico), this proved especially challenging since both studios offer pre-professional and classical training

in various dance genres. The dance teachers quickly realized that virtual classes just were not sufficient for proper training and instruction. So in October 2020, both NSB & CCD unveiled their new outdoor dance studios! Built with specialty flooring suitable for all dance styles, the outdoor spaces at these two Chico-based dance studios will allow young dancers to continue their training in-person and off of Zoom.

For more information, visit www.chicocreekdancecentre.com and www.northstateballet.com.

3. Apple Blossom Baby (ABB) For over a decade, Apple Blossom Baby has been the go-to retailer in Chico for quality new and used baby and children’s clothing, shoes, toys, and accessories. When the pandemic hit, many shops in town (like ABB) began offering contactless options such as curbside pickup, phone and online orders, and even home delivery. Once they were cleared to open back up, however, ABB wanted to help other business owners stay afloat. They opened their storefront to several local businesses in a shared effort to highlight organizations in the community.

Some of the Chico retailers that now share space at ABB are Chico Chia, Magnolia Gift and Garden, Squishy Bebe, Christy’s Bowtique, and Schulps Pottery & Candle. The goal behind the shared space is this: By carrying other business’ products, ABB creates a one-stop-shop experience for families while increasing local business’ chances for success during these uncertain times. It is a win-win for everyone!

For more information, visit www.appleblossombaby.com.

4. Peterson Sisters Pumpkin Patch Pumpkin patches are a seasonal tradition embraced by families across Butte County every fall. One patch, in particular, is going to great lengths to ensure safety, cleanliness, and peace of mind for its visitors this year.

The Peterson Sisters Pumpkin Patch has made several modifications to its annual farm and pumpkin picking, including a large outdoor scale for weighing purchased pumpkins, sanitized pumpkin shears, and wagons after each use, and friendly staff throughout the farm to answer questions (all wearing masks, of course). It turns out that

Covid restrictions do not have to keep you from safely enjoying your family’s seasonal pumpkin patch tradition! For more information, visit www.pspumpkinpatch.com.

5. CARD Youth Sports Institute Chico Area Recreation and Parks District (CARD) has played a pivotal role in the Chico community and is known for its fun and exciting sports programs. While Butte County has remained on the Covid-19 State Watch List, however, CARD has found creative ways to make a few adjustments to their youth sports, ensuring children still have an opportunity to participate in organized athletic activities. The CARD Sports Institute offers outdoor baseball, basketball, flag football, soccer, and volleyball, focusing on developing individual skills. They focus on the progression of fundamentals, footwork, and technique. Sessions contain a structured breakdown and development curriculum for each participant based on their selected sport. The CARD Sports Institute follows guidelines set forth by the CA Department of Public Health. For more information, visit chicorec.com/card-sports-institute-csi.

6. Thistle & Stitch Before the pandemic hit, Jamie Kalanquin was a small business owner with a unique local shop known for making beautiful plaid scarves, machine embroidered gifts, and custom made items.

The livelihood of her store relied heavily on seasonal events and in-person shopping. When state-mandated closures and event cancellations began in March due to Covid19, Thistle & Stitch pivoted their product line. Kalanquin took creativity to a whole new level, swapping her scarf sewing skills for handmade mask making. Over the last seven months, Thistle & Stitch has made more than 3,000 masks and sold more than 10,000 yards of elastic to mask-makers when there was an elastic shortage across the U.S. Since March, they have shipped masks and elastic to all 50 states and across the world to 15 different countries. By creating muchneeded masks, their shop was deemed “essential” and remained open by providing masks and mask supplies locally. Additionally, Thistle & Stitch has also donated fabric, elastic, and thread when shortages occurred in March and early April. For more information, visit www.thistleandstitch.com.

school and home

Raising Boys In A Era

www.growingupchico.com

By Sumiti Mehta

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y husband Sudeep and I have two boys, Atiksh, 8, and Akshaj, 14, and we want to raise them to be good human beings who are happy, kind, and respectful of everyone.

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There was a time when I thought good parenting is about teaching kids to be courteous and empathetic, and to make their beds, be hygienic and help around the house. Instead, I find myself talking to them about gun control, mental health, inclusivity, sexism, all-gender bathrooms, etc.

Just the mere thought of either of my children being harassed or harassing another child is enough to keep me awake all night. I am sure any parent has the same worry.

Raising boys in the #MeToo era has many significant questions. One is: How can we successfully raise sons to understand the need for mutual respect, inclusivity across genders, and empathy for all?

We all agree that girls can do anything, including playing with cars and being good at maths and science.

But what can boys do?

Boys are still at risk of being mocked when they cry, play with dollhouses or kitchen sets, or wear pink. Pre-teens and teen boys are under great pressure to “act like a man,” which often means fitting into a stereotype that makes them shut down their feelings, which results in anxiety and depression.

We need to let our sons express their weak moments and emotions and make a constant effort to listen to them and understand them. If they feel empowered, they will listen, react, and embrace everyone, including their parents. We told both our boys that it is OK to nurture and be nurtured. This will, in turn, make them better human beings.

Until a few years ago, it was a struggle for me to break these stereotypes in my own house. I grew up in the 1980s and ’90s in India, where boys and girls are traditionally divided.

So as we raise our family in the United States, my husband and I are mindful of what we model at our house. We are

“Teaching respect in a #MeToo era starts with parents”

consciously breaking gender stereotypes in our daily lives. My sons Akshaj and Atiksh do not see traditional gender roles in our house; Sudeep and I swap our chores and work as a team. Sudeep is in consulting, so he travels, but whenever he is home, the boys have seen him prepare breakfast and dinner and help with cleaning and laundry. This has made our boys understand that there are no genderspecific chores. The boys help every day with dishes, cooking, and dusting.

I hope this will make them grow up caring and understanding boyfriends, husbands, and fathers. Akshaj has a nurturing quality that is setting a good example for his younger brother. He even cooks and helps with Atiksh’s homework when I am out at meetings.

Sudeep and I do feel fortunate that we can talk openly to boys to make them understand the terms “sexism” and “gender inclusivity,” but as parents, we are still learning every day. Believe me, parenting has no short cuts, and it does not come with hacks.

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THINGS WE LOVE RIGHT NOW

1.

Happy Wax® Happy Wax® is the first brand committed to making wax melting fun, easy, and healthy. We take pride in delivering our wax melts to you because we are passionate about creating all-natural, unforgettable fragrances infused with essential oils and free of phthalates. Our wax is 100% soy, making it environmentally friendly and sustainable; our wax warmers are innovative, designed to make wax melting a painless process.

3.

Scientific and Artistic PicassoTiles has done it again. STEM Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math all-in-one, enabling the kids to learn by intuitive playing and bring out the best of all to be artistically creative while technically, architecturally, intelligently, and statically advanced at the same time.

4.

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Love Notes Nothing can stop your love from reaching your child, and in I’ll Love You for Always, that love is always on hand in the form of 6 beautiful notes that you can write straight into the book! As a young child travels through life’s peaks and valleys, sunshine, and shadow, colorful love birds appear carrying 6 different notes of love and reassurance.

2.

Let’s Bake!

Make baking with the family extra special for your littlest helpers with these child-sized baking sets. Each is a perfect fit for play kitchens, but fully functional in your kitchen.

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Custom Towels Locally made towels by Christy’s Bowtique, with all your kids’ favorite themes and characters, would make great gifts. Make them extra special by having their names embroidered on their towels.

Air Fort No Assembly Required. Perfect for Parties & Sleepovers! Great for screen-free constructive play. Child Safety Tested and Approved. No floor for easy entry and exit.

6.

Doll High Chair Pink with hearts design, these foldable doll high chairs are easy to store. This high chair fits 18” dolls.

These items can be found at www.appleblossombaby.com.

school and home www.growingupchico.com

Inside the Chico Unified Bakery Rising to the Occasion

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alling leaves, fragrant pumpkin spice lattes, and cinnamon candles leave us hungry for holiday activities with the kids.

Scrolling through Pinterest or flipping through market magazines, I was overwhelmed by the options. I could literally envision my children bouncing around the house on an extreme sugar rush - not the quality activity I was seeking. I wanted a healthy snack that I could make with my children, so I turned to the Chico Unified School District’s Nutrition Services Team for ideas.

Parents may be surprised to learn that the Chico Unified Nutrition Team operates an entire bakery. During a typical year, three professional bakers produce cookies, muffins, cinnamon rolls, taco pockets, bread rolls, pizza dough, and turkey pot pies from scratch! Their team of foodloving experts was honored two years in a row from FRESHMeals@Schools as one of 13 school districts with the healthiest menu. The Nutrition Team typically serves approximately 3,500 breakfasts, 6,500 lunches, and 1,000 suppers each day!

In the last five years, the Chico Unified Nutrition Team has made an effort to

partner with local vendors to use local fruits, vegetables, proteins, and dairy products. They collaborated with Chico High School’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) student organization to help create Henshaw Farm.

Henshaw Farm is a premier location for finding perfect October pumpkins, but did you know Chico High FFA students grow watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and cranberry beans for the Nutrition Services food program? The Chico High FFA students are growing food that’s used to feed other students on campus!

Let’s face it, being confined in a small space with children is enough to drive even the most patient parent a little stir crazy. The Chico Unified Nutrition Services Team shared three snack ideas that will add a little festivity into your kitchen - and they are all kid-approved!

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growing up chico magazine

Providing Free Meals for Kids The Chico Unified Nutrition Services Team operates a Free Meal program for children 18 years and younger.

This program typically runs when students are not on campus (such as in the summer and during online learning). The staff provides free breakfast and lunch to ANY child who visits a meal location. Learn more by visiting www.chicousd.org.

Recipes

NOVEMBER Turkey Fruit Plate

Ingredients Needed: • • • • • •

Navel orange, peeled and divided into slices.

Pear halved lengthwise Apple, cut into slices Mini chocolate chips Cashews Raisin, cut in half

Instructions:

1. First, wash and cut your fruit.

2. On a plate, place the half of pear and lay the orange and apple slices arched around the top. Position the mini chocolate chips at the top of the pear as the eyes of the turkey. Then press the cashew into the pear below the eyes to project out as the beak. Place the half of the raisin next to the cashew as the turkey gobble. Break a cashew in half and add to the bottom as feet.

3. Enjoy!

DECEMBER Grinch Kabobs

Ingredients Needed: • • • • • •

Mini marshmallows Strawberries, tops sliced off Banana, peeled and sliced into coins Green grapes Sprinkles Toothpicks

Instructions:

1. First, wash and cut your fruit.

2. On each toothpick, assemble your kabob as follows: one mini marshmallow, one strawberry, one banana coin slice, and one green grape. Use a toothpick to poke two holes in the grape and place a sprinkle in each for eyes.

3. Enjoy!

Ingredients Needed: • • • • •

Pretzel sticks Banana, peeled and sliced into coins Mini chocolate chips Sprinkles Wooden coffee stirrers

Instructions:

1. First, wash and cut your fruit. On each toothpick, place 3 banana coins stacked on top of each other.

2. Place one mini chocolate chip on each banana for buttons. On the top banana coin, place 2 mini chocolate chips for eyes. Place an orange sprinkle below the eyes for a nose and a brown sprinkle for a smile!

3. Enjoy!

JANUARY Banana Snowmen

5. Gift others with experiences.

family time

Keep it Light: 10 Ways to Simplify the Season

By Janeen Lewis

growing upchico chico magazine 1414 14 growing up growing up magazine chico magazine

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t’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but research confirms a different reality -- most Americans have elevated stress levels during the holiday season. With the challenges most have faced this year, instead of being full of good tidings and cheer, families may feel drained of peace. Even if you are staying in or uncertain about what your family festivities will look like this year, keeping things as light and easy as possible will make the end of the year more enjoyable. Here are ten tips that will simplify the season and make it merry and bright.

1. Focus on your reason for the season.

Why are you celebrating? Is it for spiritual reasons? Maybe you want to focus on family and friends or enjoy the spirit of giving during the holidays.

Keep what is most important about the holidays at the center of your celebration. Reconsider any task or commitment that takes your time, energy, enjoyment, or finances away from your reason for celebrating in the first place.

2. Set boundaries around your time.

Even during a year in which gatherings will probably be fewer, it is easy to get caught up in organizing donations or fundraisers, planning for your family celebration, or connecting virtually with clubs and associates. This year, pick one project to which you want to volunteer your time or pick a variety of simple acts of kindness you can do with your family safely. Spend time with your friends and

loved ones, but do not feel guilty if you cannot commit to every Zoom party or virtual fundraiser.

3. Let go of Martha.

The silver lining about this year is that it may force us to downsize expectations.

One of the most stress-relieving things you can do at the holidays is set the bar a little lower. Martha Stewart is an elegant hostess, but you do not have to do everything the way Martha would to have a beautiful season. Embrace simpler decorations, meals, and giftgiving than you have in the past. Try quick shortcuts or holiday hacks. If you let go of expectations, you may be pleasantly surprised to find yourself content with a celebration you had not even envisioned.

4. Farm out your to-do list.

At the beginning of the season, make a to-do list of what you want to accomplish.

If you find that it is too long for the amount of time you have, consider delegating some of the items. If you contribute to a Christmas club at your bank, you might even consider setting aside some of the money specifically so you can hire others to help with your holiday tasks. Have groceries delivered and buy gifts online. Grocery stores also have a plethora of pre-packaged holiday foods that make delicious sides, cutting down your time in the kitchen.

Buy desserts from your local bakery. No time to clean the house? Hire a cleaning service just for the holiday season or ask for this service as a gift.

Shopping at the holidays can be timeconsuming and nerve-wracking, even if you shop online. If you don’t start early, coveted items sell out, leaving you scrambling for another gift. Ask those you give gifts to if there is an experience they would like to have. Tickets to the theatre? Family passes to an amusement park or aquarium? A relaxing day at the spa? Experiences give friends and family the opportunity to make memories and pamper themselves, unique gifts that are much-appreciated. And it also allows family and friends to enjoy their present in the future at a time when they feel comfortable visiting their favorite experience venues.

6. Set a holiday tea time.

Recent research shows that drinking green and black tea has many health benefits, including promoting relaxation.

Herbal teas, while not a true tea, still help with anxiety and stress. In keeping with the holiday spirit, sip some calming peppermint tea, or try chamomile, lemon balm, or passionflower.

7. Take a hike.

One way to tell your stress to take a hike might actually be to take one yourself.

When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins that trigger a happier, more relaxed mood. Aerobic exercise outdoors away from screens and to-do lists can clear your mind and help you keep what is important in perspective.

8. Reconnect with long lost friends and relatives.

Meet with an old friend you have not talked to for years, and catch up. Take some time off and visit relatives you miss seeing regularly. If you are staying home this holiday season, connect via Zoom or FaceTime. Surrounding yourself with people you enjoy is powerful when you want to combat holiday stress.

9. Do something kind for someone else.

You do not have to overcommit yourself to a charity or fundraiser to be kind.

Small random acts of kindness can make someone’s day. Let someone in front of

you at the supermarket line or let someone drive their car in front of yours in the parking lot. Send an anonymous Christmas card with cash or a gift card to a college student or elderly person that you know is struggling financially or that is socially distancing.

Throw change in Salvation Army buckets or donate online. Having a kind spirit chases away stress and keeps the season warm and hope-filled.

10. Celebrate memories more than material possessions.

Material gifts are nice, but most of us quickly forget gifts we have received in past years. The thing that we remember the most are the memories we make with friends and family. At the end of a challenging year, make some happy memories this holiday season and bid stress goodbye.

10 Holiday Hacks to Make the Season Bright 1. If you have an artificial tree, wrap the center pole with a strand of lights before you add the branches. This will make the tree shine brighter from the inside.

2. Use a wastebasket to hold rolls of wrapping paper.

3. Use egg cartons to store small ornaments and ornament hooks.

Use wine boxes to store larger, fragile ornaments.

4. Spread a thick layer of whipped cream on a cookie sheet.

Freeze it for several hours and remove it. Cut hearts out of the whipped cream with a cookie cutter and serve in hot cocoa.

5. Put a ball of sugar cookie dough between two sheets of wax paper. Roll it out between the papers, so the dough doesn’t stick to the pin. While it is still in the wax paper, put the flattened cookie dough in the refrigerator until you are ready to cut cookies out.

6. Store cookies in an airtight tin with flour tortillas between layers to keep cookies from drying out. You can also use a slice of bread.

7. If you do not want to put nail holes in your fireplace mantel, fit a tension rod in the wood frame and hang your stockings with shower hooks. You can also purchase nail-free stocking holder hooks.

8. Hang lightweight ornaments on long ribbons from your light fixture or chandelier to make an elegant holiday decoration.

9. Skip expensive candles and potpourri. Add water and natural ingredients like apples, oranges, cinnamon sticks or cloves to a Crockpot and heat. Enjoy holiday scents that aren’t overpowering.

10. To keep Christmas lights from getting tangled, wrap them around a clothes hanger or power cord holder.

family time www.growingupchico.com

Connect Through the Magic of Storytelling

by Christa Melnyk Hines

“Why do you have a badger skin?” inquired my six-year-old nephew.

My family, along with a small group of other adults and children, formed a semicircle in the shadowy quiet of a reconstructed Native American encampment earth lodge at a children’s nature center. Christine Freeman, an employee, had been guiding us through the Kanza Indians’ lifestyle, showing us how the Plains’ tribe crafted bows and arrows and used turtle shells for soup bowls and as calendars.

She reached over and picked up the skin. “This is actually a raccoon,” she said as she placed it over her shoulder. Sitting down, she ran her hand along the fluffy, circled tail. “If you have time for a story, I’ll tell you how the animals worked out night and day,” she said.

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We all leaned in a little closer.

By listening to Freeman recount the myth about the animals, we learned how Native Americans taught their children why days are split into nighttime and daytime.

alone in our human experiences. Stories serve to entertain, inspire, teach compassion and other values, and stoke admiration and respect for the generations of individuals who came before us. Studies also show that storytelling enhances a child’s language development, emergent reading, and comprehension skills.

“A story is a way to be in connection with our children and be in empathy and sympathy with them without giving advice or laying down the law,” says Robin Moore, professional storyteller and author of Creating a Family Storytelling Tradition: Awakening the Hidden Storyteller.

A penny for your thoughts? Nicole Keck, mom of three boys, ages 6, 4, and 2, found storytelling is like a window into her children’s minds. Her sons take turns telling stories before bedtime. “(The stories) may be funny or serious, true or fiction.

We like that it gives us precious insights into what they’re thinking about,” Keck says. “Knowing what makes them tick is an invaluable tool in guiding and supporting them. Besides, they’re very witty, and it’s just great entertainment!”

Freeman, who is also a mom of two adult sons, knows that her audience is more likely to listen and retain the information when she weaves information into a story. “Storytelling is ageless. It appeals to everyone,” she says. “With children, it’s a great way to catch their attention.”

Expand creativity. Just like imaginative play, stories help children sort through problems and work through issues. “The more stories that kids can relate to others, the more ability they have to use their imagination and to become problem solvers,” says Joyce Slater, a professional storyteller and performing arts teacher.

Learn through storytelling. Stories put our experiences into perspective, comforting us with the knowledge that we aren’t

Research suggests that families who tell stories report higher levels of happiness, closeness, and adaptability.

“My favorite thing about storytelling has to be showing my kids how fun it is to really embrace one’s own creativity and not to be shy about exploring and sharing one’s imagination,” says Kevin Doyle, a children’s book author and father of two, ages 7 and 3. He began telling stories to his daughter when she was just a toddler.

Doyle’s children especially desire imaginative, adventurous stories with pretend characters. “Those are my favorite to think up and the kids’ favorites to hear. Bedtime is our primary storytime. That’s the best time to unwind and help everyone relax,” he says.

As an author, Doyle knows a thing or two about spinning yarns that appeal to kids. However, you don’t have to be a professional storyteller to entertain your kids with your tales.

Tell life stories. Kids love to hear about parents’ adventures when they were kids. In particular, family stories shape a child’s understanding of his family’s values, a sense of right and wrong, and appropriate social behavior both in the family and in the world.

“One of the stories that kids should always know is the story about their birth,” Slater says. “‘What was the day like? Who was there?

Why do I have this name?’ It becomes a real self-identifying process if you know how you came into being and why somebody chose your name.”

Encourage listening. Most of all, storytelling creates space for you to connect with your children. Begin with books. “Find a subject that you like, read the story, and then talk about it. It’s a great way to open up a conversation with your children,” Freeman says.

“Listen to each other. Sometimes we don’t listen enough. There’s nothing wrong with just sitting and talking.”

Other Segues to Storytelling: •

Use a puppet or act out a story instead of reading it.

•

When your child asks a question, try providing the answer in story form.

•

Look through the family photo album together and share stories about the people in the photos.

•

Play charades to tell a story.

•

Take turns pulling an object out of a box or bag and telling a story about the object.

•

Integrate old photos into your home: the decor of grandparents, interesting relatives, or ancestors to spark storytelling opportunities.

How To Be Your Child’s Emotion Coach

www.growingupchico.com

family time

By Kelly McGinnis

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growing up chico magazine

Would you be surprised if I told you one of the biggest reasons parents and children struggle is the inability to achieve their goals? A recent study of 2.1 million people from 140 different countries was surveyed with the primary focus of measuring people’s happiness levels and positive emotions.

The study showed that people between the ages of 18-22 showed exceedingly high levels of joy and excitement. Over time, the number of people reporting high levels of happiness decreased until around age 52, where it was an all-time low before slowly increasing. Researchers asked the particularly important question, “What causes these extremely low levels of happiness?”

The answer might shock you: PARENTING. Let us look at it in a different way. Parents and kids often have competing goals. All the parents working from home know firsthand how difficult it is to achieve your work goals while simultaneously supporting and helping your children with distance learning. Kids get frustrated, too. They want to spend quality time with Mom and Dad, but we are distracted by our screens or phones. This is just the start of an emotional roller coaster. The next thing we know, our kids act out in defiance, throw a temper tantrum, or behave inappropriately.

We immediately jump to action, trying to stop or redirect the behavior, and many times we miss the most important piece.

WHAT EMOTION IS BEHIND THE BEHAVIOR? If you take a minute to review the titles in the parenting section at the local bookstore, you will find a myriad of books offering to help solve many difficult behaviors such as: “How to stop a temper tantrum,” “Getting your child to sleep through the night,” “Why my child won’t eat his broccoli,” “Protect teens from negative effects of social media,” and more. The interesting piece is that all those titles focus on unwanted behavior. In fact, most parenting books focus on fixing behaviors.

Dr. John Gottman set out to discover and identify what it takes to raise an emotionally intelligent child. “Dr. Gottman undertook a variety of scientific studies, which led him to the conclusion that the key to good parenting lies in understanding the emotional source of problematic behavior. He performed a detailed laboratory examination of children whose parents interacted with their emotions in various styles. The conclusions he reached were striking.” The parents that used Emotion Coaching and helped their children master the understanding and regulation of emotions were more successful. The children had higher self-confidence levels, performed better in social and academic situations, and were even physically healthier.

For decades researchers have been looking into the different types of parenting styles. The findings continue to be the same.

The most successful parents are the ones that can balance high levels of control and direction with high levels of warmth and affection. This idea that we can set limits and boundaries and listen to our children’s opinions so that they feel heard and understood is the heart of Emotion Coaching. When parents take the time to understand, validate, and empathize with their child’s feelings, it opens a pathway to connect and begins to help with setting limits and problem-solving.

5 Simple Steps to Emotion Coaching: •

Step One: Be Aware of Emotions. This step is all about raising awareness. The more we know about our own emotions, the better we can model for our children. Search for clues about how your child may be feeling. Notice their body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions.

•

Step Two: Connect With Your Child. Use this as an opportunity to connect with your children. Parents often go right into problem-solving mode and do not think about how the child may be feeling. Spend a minute, turning toward the emotion and understanding the source. Be willing to understand your child’s emotions.

•

Step Three: Label the Emotion. The process of helping kids understand and label their feelings is a huge part of creating children with high levels of emotional intelligence. We all have the same basic emotions. Talk about emotions. Help them understand the difference between frustration and anger and the varying degree of emotions. Avoid telling them how they should feel and help them label how they really feel.

•

Step Four: Listen, Empathize, Validate. As you listen to your child, share about their feelings, acknowledge and empathize with them. Let them know that we all experience emotions. You can share a personal story with them about a time when you felt the same way. If you are uncomfortable sharing personal stories with your children, share a story about a friend, neighbor, or sibling.

•

Step Five: Explore Solutions Together. In this step, you set limits and begin to problem solve. For younger children, parents will need to provide positive options to express their emotions and help the children learn acceptable behaviors for the emotion.

Parents help children learn to separate the emotion from the behavior. All emotions are acceptable, but not all behaviors. For older children, walk alongside them as they process the problemsolving piece. Ask questions and let them process. Encourage emotional expression but set limits on behavior. An example of a sassy teen may look like this, “I understand you are feeling frustrated that you can’t see your friends, but you should not yell at me. Let us work together to see if we can come up with a way to connect with your friends.”

The next time your child misbehaves or expresses negative emotions, use it as an opportunity to connect and figure out the underlying cause of the feeling. Put the 5 steps of Emotion Coaching to work in your relationship with your children. I promise you will not be disappointed. *The Gottman Institute Blog

Silent Night

10 growing growing chico magazine growing upup chico magazine 2020 up chico magazine

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parenting

By Kara Haug

“We are not always shown the beauty that happens when we open ourselves up, especially when we can sit with others in the stillness of a room.”

E

very Christmas Eve, when I was growing up, my family attended the late-night church service. My brothers and I would wait for the moment when the candles were lit to sing “Silent Night.” We waited because, without a doubt, our mother’s chin would begin to quiver, and tears would stream down her cheek. We would all look at each other and giggle. Even in high school, we would still all giggle as if to say, “Look, mom is crying again.” Looking back, it is a bit silly that we would respond that way, yet as adults, we tell our kids to look at Grandma to capture the sight of her vulnerability and tears.

Though we would snicker at her, it’s something that I love the most about my mother. I recognize that at that moment, all of my mother’s hopes and dreams come to gather. My mother becomes like a child, seeking solace in another innocent childborn in a moment of peace- away from the world and its harsh realities. It’s a time where she feels unconditional love and great gratitude.

Both of my children had particular songs that they wanted me to sing to them each night. My son likes “Hush Little Baby,” and my daughter always asked for “Silent Night.” There is something sweet about “Silent Night” that brought her to a place of rest and solace – as it does for my mother. When I would sing it to her, her little body would instantly relax, she would breathe deeply, and she allowed herself to let go. Her body would rest in the stillness of the silent night, and her worries would slip away through our nighttime tradition.

December brings a time of waiting.

Children await Christmas day and unwrapping of presents, and we look forward to time away from work to be with friends and family. For some, the busyness of this time of year with parties, obligations, cards, and gift-buying can make life seem more chaotic and stressful. However, there are also moments where we sit in our living rooms with the lights down low, drinking hot chocolate, and taking in the ambiance of the lighted tree casting shadows of our loved ones. We remember those who have passed, we think of those who are with us, and we wonder. In the silence of the night, we are invited into the place where we can slow down and notice. We notice the way the lights shimmer and twinkle, not just on the tree, but in the eyes of those we love. Like the times when I would sing to my daughter, and she would wrap my arms around her in the darkness of her room – it is a time where we reach out and hold on to traditions, hope, family, and love.

We live in a time when it seems like we need reminders to practice civility, intimacy, and vulnerability. We get easily distracted by the busyness of life and the glow of our screens. We should be in the moment, seeing the goodness in those close to us. These silent nights can serve as a reminder of what is important. It is about loving and learning how to do that the best we can.

As a Sexual Health Educator, I spend a lot of time teaching youth to recognize intimacy and empathy. I help them realize that the risk that comes with vulnerability is essential in creating healthy relationships.

We also spend time going over how good communication looks even though it can be

challenging. We are not always shown the beauty that happens when we open ourselves up, especially when we can sit with others in the stillness of a room.

Love is not always about feelings and passion. It also is about being steadfast, working through the difficult moments together, sacrificing when needed, being the receiver at times, showing up, and listening.

Love is about creating healthy boundaries to care for our souls and helping others learn about theirs. This is what we can remember and commit to doing more of when we are silent. I know that families and communities can have differences, and learning how to work together can be quite hard. No one promised us it would be easy. We need to work for what we want in our relationships, and though we may not be successful every time, be willing to try again with dignity. We need to help our children learn how to do the same.

In this holiday season, during a year in which we all have endured sadness, sacrifice, loss, grief, and pain, we can still feel a sense of unconditional love and hope as we remember what is important. May we become a community who reaches out and sees the wonder and sparkle in the eyes of our neighbors and those we hold dear.

May we learn to be comfortable again in the silence and stillness of a room, and may we embrace intimacy and vulnerability.

Last year, I was not able to be with my mother at Christmas, and when “Silent Night” was sung, I was the one with the tears, and I missed her. I felt vulnerable, and for a moment, a sense of hope, gratitude, and love.

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

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Sami's Circuit Goes the Distance Reminding Kids Everywhere, You Got This!

By Allison Hopkins

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growing up up chico chico magazine magazine 2222 growing

ens of thousands of students in northern California have taken part in Sami Kader’s motivational programs since 2012, and with today’s challenges, they need this more than ever. Just like his program teaches—to never give up—Sami has found a way to continue to reach kids during distance learning through his “On Demand” series. Teachers and parents use Sami’s weekly, 20-minute videos designed to support kids’ physical, mental, and social well-being from Pre-K to sixth grade.

high school, teaching them about the tools he used to believe in himself, and engaging them through fun circuit training workouts throughout the year. For anyone who hasn’t seen Sami’s training in action, it’s an auditorium full of so much energy that you can’t help but be a little stunned!

Fast forward to distance learning of 2020 and the new video platform has enabled Sami’s service to reach school districts and parents located anywhere, anytime. His videos focus on a “circuit of powers,” a social-emotional toolbox. He teaches the kids that much like with a superhero, the powers aren’t something that are given to you. Students are shown that these powers already exist and can be accessed at any time once they understand and learn how to use them. A sample video is included at samiscircuit.com/homeschool.

“What used to be a message that I can only give in person is now a message that can reach kids everywhere!”

-Sami

Sami began struggling with low self-esteem as a young child. He was mocked and bullied by his peers for being overweight, which resulted in what he refers to as a “negative voice” inside, leading him down a bad path. His story shows how one person can change someone’s course forever. When Sami was 16, a family friend insisted that he join him on daily trips to the gym. There was a lot of resistance initially, but after one year, Sami lost a significant amount of weight and, most importantly, gained more mental strength and respect for himself than can be measured.

Family nights have been a popular part of Sami’s in-person program. Now families of schools that subscribe and others who purchase the On-Demand program can participate in the monthly live virtual events. Each event has a different theme and “field trip” location.

Sami’s two-part program for the past eight school years has involved talking with students during an initial assembly about what he faced throughout elementary, junior high and

Courtney Harbman’s fourth-graders at Foothill Oaks Elementary School in Sacramento have been involved with Sami’s program since kindergarten. They are very excited

to watch his videos during their online class on Fridays.

Harbman explained that the most recent video she shared with the class talked about being positive and finding the good in everything they are doing right now, followed by a circuit training activity.

“Sami has become a part of our school climate for the last six years and participates in our annual jog-a-thon,” said Harbman, a mother of two girls who has been teaching for 20 years. “Trying to get my students to do PE can be very difficult, but Sami comes and they will do absolutely anything he asks them to do. He is a magnet for children… he’s like magic.”

Harbman introduced Sami to her school after hearing about the program that her daughter was involved with in Lincoln.

Over the years, she has been impressed by his ability to connect with the students who are struggling a little during the circuits and need extra help, explaining that “Sami finds those ones and makes them shine.”

Purchasing a homeschool subscription has been a great option for Lindsey West, whose seven-year-old son is not offered the service through his school. West plays Sami’s videos as part of her son’s weekly physical education time, as well as a foundation for his social emotional learning throughout the week.

“We’ve been working with our son for a while on positive thinking, resilience, perseverance and self-motivation,” said West. “Lately, he has been drawing pictures and hiding them for us to find as an end of day activity. In these pictures, he has started putting Sami’s words, ‘You got this’ and ‘Never give up.’”

West explained that Sami’s message of overcoming a negative voice from his childhood has really resonated with her son. After learning about the negative voice in one of the first videos, she bought the book of Sami’s story, and they read it from time to time to remind her son that he can overcome negativity and have a happy and healthy life, like Sami.

The positive messaging surrounding Sami’s Circuit hits home in a time when it’s truly needed—for teachers, parents and most importantly, for kids. His weekly videos are working to create new bonds and reinforce existing bonds between Sami and the students; he believes this is key in building resilience.

“Sami’s videos go beyond just exercise for us,” said West.

“They are helping our son develop the tools he will need to thrive throughout the challenges of life.”

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winter fun

Fun DIY Winter Activities Provided By Placer County Moms, an Instagram page filled with Placer County fun for families. Our page is full of family friendly activities, products, and tips for all ages. Go check out placercounty.moms on Instagram to see our latest ideas!

Sensory Snow

A sensory bin enables kids to make endless discoveries. It allows for open-ended play and imagination. Children love using their imagination while playing. Some benefits of a sensory bin include critical thinking, strengthening fine-motor skills, and hours of play and learning. A sensory bin can consist of a container with a lid and toys/materials which fill the bin. You can also use tools and instruments like tweezers, tongs, scoops, and measuring cups.

Below is a great sensory bin for winter time!

Materials List: -Glitter -Baking Soda -Water

In a bowl, dump 1 box of baking soda and some glitter. Slowly add a few tablespoons of water at a time until it is sticking together. Don’t add too much water. Add just enough to get the powder to form snow.

Turkey Bowling

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growing up chico magazine

While cooking a Thanksgiving feast in the kitchen, entertain the children with a game of Turkey Bowling. It is similar to regular bowling, incorporating “turkeys” for pins and pumpkins for bowling balls. It only takes a little bit of prep time for endless hours of play. Enjoy the holiday, and have fun celebrating with friends and family!

Materials List:

- Large Brown cups - Construction paper for the feathers and beaks - Googly Eyes - Hot glue gun Decorate your cups to look like turkeys. You can stack the turkeys or arrange them in a more traditional bowling shape.

Roll the pumpkin and see how many you can knock over!

Easiest 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Cookies

It sounds almost too good to be true! Only 3 ingredients for the yummiest cookie, and a quick and easy recipe that kids can make anytime. There is no better treat during fall than a pumpkin treat. If you end up trying these cookies, be sure to tag us on our Instagram!

Ingredients:

1 Box Spice Cake 1 15oz. Can of pumpkin puree 1 Cup chocolate chips of choice…dark, milk, white, butterscotch etc.

Instructions:

Mix everything all together until blended Use a cookie scoop to place scoops onto a greased cookie sheet (about 2 tablespoons each) Bake at 375 degrees for 12 minutes

New Year’s Eve Balloon Countdown

Who has New Year’s Eve plans that don’t include staying up until midnight? Sleep is precious these days, so start the countdown early! A fun way to do that is with a balloon clockpop.

Set Up & Materials needed:

Write down 6-12 activities on small pieces of paper and stuff one paper inside each balloon. Blow up the balloons and put them in a circle like a clock. Use painter’s tape to stick them to the wall.

How to play:

Kids take turns popping balloons with a pin. Then, read the activity inside each balloon and go and do it. Then, pop another balloon when each activity is completed. You can fill as many or as few balloons as you want.

Activity Ideas:

Make NYE hats Have a dance party Make a NYE dessert Eat Pizza Play with play dough Do sparklers Build cup towers Play glowstick hide & seek Play BINGO Watch a ball drop on Netflix Toast with sparkling cider

winter fun

Outdoor Sensory Scavenger Hunt Explore your neighborhood or local trails, and circle all the items below that you can find!

Look for:

Listen for:

Smell:

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A squirrel

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Birds chirping

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Tree bark

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Pine tree needles

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Animal tracks

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Rustling leaves

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Wind

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Fresh air

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An animal-shaped

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Raindrops/water

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Prickly pine cone

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A blooming flower

flowing

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A smooth rock

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Green grass

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Cedar or juniper

cloud

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Feel:

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A crawling ant

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A dog barking

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Moss

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A tree without

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A leaf blower or

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Dried leaves

leaves

someone raking

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A feather

Holly berries

leaves

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tree leaf

A Gifting Wellness Fair Helping You Gift Your Loved Ones With Healthier Options This Holiday Season Sunday, Nov. 22nd, 2020 from 10 AM - 5 PM Held in the parking lot at Creating A Sustainable You, located at 811 East 5th Avenue

26 growing up chico magazine

The Gifting Wellness Fair is meant to bring an alternative gifting experience to you and your loved ones this holiday season. This first-time holiday event will bring together local small business vendors that focus on health and wellness, home care, families, self-care, and even beautiful handmade items from local artists. We welcome you to shop local this holiday season, getting some of your favorite items, including gift certificates to local shops, memberships to new services, and a variety of other items for both you and your loved ones.

For those interested in discovering fun and alternative gifts, we welcome you to join us to learn about wellness options that exist right here in the heart of Butte County. We invite you and your loved ones to come out and experience the fun and joy of the holiday season that we all deserve this year.

As a bonus, we will also be raffling off several gift baskets and prizes donated by participating vendors to those who pre-register for the event. Admission to the Gifting Wellness Fair is free, but we request preregistration to get an idea of attendance. You can get pre-registered and signed up for the raffle here: http:// bit.ly/GiftingWellnessFairPreRegister. For more information on updates about the Gifting Wellness Fair and participating vendors, please visit the Facebook Event here: http://bit.ly/GiftingWellnessFair If you are a small business owner interested in becoming a vendor at the Gifting Wellness Fair, please fill out the Vendor Registration form here: http://bit.ly/GiftingWellnessFairVendorRegistration, or contact Rebecca Chavez at 661-747-1586.

Winter Events

Check out all of the great things we have to look forward to this Winter! Please note that dates and times are subject to change.

Please call ahead or look online to confirm the events.

Saturday Farmer’s Market Every Saturday Take advantage of all the excellent produce grown locally at Chico’s year-round farmer’s market. Held every Saturday from 7:30 am-1 pm rain or shine.

Wednesday Farmer’s Market Every Wednesday North Valley Plaza Mall Parking Lot, Pillsbury Road adjacent to Trader Joe’s. Open year-round, rain or shine, from 7:30, am-1 pm.

Christmas Preview Sunday, November 22nd Since 1978, Christmas Preview has been a Downtown Chico tradition...drawing folks together in the heart of our community to kick off the holiday season officially! You have not experienced the holidays in Downtown Chico if you have not experienced Christmas Preview. 4:00–8:00 pm Visit www.downtownchico.com for more details.

Gifting & Wellness Fair Sunday, November 22nd This event is an alternative gifting experience for you and your loved ones this holiday season. This first-time holiday event will bring together local small business vendors that focus on health and wellness, home care, families, self-care, and even beautiful handmade items from local artists. Held in the parking lot at Creating A Sustainable You, located at 811 East 5th Avenue, from 10 am-5 pm.

15th Annual Run for Food Thursday, November 26th On Thanksgiving morning, we will gather on Facebook as our event emcee announces the run’s starting call. You choose your own 5K course in your neighborhood or on a favorite trail wearing your Run for Food attire. You can run, walk, stroll, or some combination thereof! Our social media gathering will be in full swing as we live-stream interviews with race participants, give shout outs to participants posting their Run for Food on social media, and offer prizes throughout the morning. Visit www.runforfood.com for all the details!

Santa Arrival At Chico Marketplace Friday, November 27th Join Chico Marketplace and the Butte County Sheriff Department for an exciting Santa Arrival! Watch the sky as Butte County Sheriffs fly Santa to Chico Marketplace in the rescue helicopter to the southeast parking lot. We will have areas marked off for social distancing, and masks are required. Santa will then be escorted by Chico Marketplace security to his workshop next to Dick’s Sporting Goods for photos and Visits. 12 pm.

Visit Santa in his Workshop at Chico Marketplace Friday, November 27th – Wednesday, December 23rd Create new memories with a special photo with Santa in his brandnew Workshop at Chico Marketplace. The Workshop is located outside the southwest entrance near Dick’s Sporting Goods. We will be allowing for social distancing and masks are required. Masks may be removed for photos. Monday – Thursday 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm (break from 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm), Sunday 11am – 6pm (Break 2:30pm3:00pm), December 24th hours are 11:00 am – 6:00 pm.

Redding Garden of Lights Friday, November 27th - Sunday, December 27th This holiday season, begin a whole new tradition of lights and festivities. Discover an immersive experience for the entire family at the Redding Garden of Lights at Turtle Bay’s McConnell Botanical Gardens. Rain or shine, the Garden of Lights has something for everyone to enjoy. Tickets will be available online and at the gate— sign up to receive email updates or visit turtlebay.org to learn more.

Virtual Santa Visits Saturday, November 28th – Thursday, December 24th “Schedule a Magical Virtual Visit with Santa” Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. If you cannot visit with Santa in person, he has made himself available through a video call. Go to chicomall.com for more info and to schedule your visit.

Tree Lighting Friday, December 4th Join us for the Celebration of Light in the City Plaza and the Community Christmas Tree Lighting. A short program of music & uniting words will culminate in the arrival of Santa to light the Christmas Tree. For more details, visit www.downtownchico.com.

Pet Nights with Santa Tuesday, December 8th and 15th Bring your well-behaved dog or cat for a magical photo with Santa in his brand-new Workshop! The Workshop is located outside the southwest entrance near Dick’s Sporting Goods and will be held from 5–7 pm.

Avenue of Lights Wednesday, December 16th - Sunday, December 20th Drive your car through the fun and whimsical light displays from 6 pm-9 pm at the Glenn County Fairgrounds in Orland. The fairgrounds are located at Woodward and Yolo Streets (turn South off Hwy. 32 at Woodward Street).

Santa Shuffle Saturday, December 12th - Thursday, December 24th We invite you to joyfully shuffle with us during the 12 Days of Christmas Virtual Santa Shuffle Race/ Fun walk! To keep participants, staff, and volunteers safe, the race will be held virtually this year, meaning that you can participate from anywhere in the United States. This event will raise money to support families in Chico, CA, Paradise, CA, and the Burn Scar area unable to provide a meal/gifts to their families this holiday season.

To sign up and for more info, visit runsignup.com.

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winter fun

(I know it sounds gross, but that is the best word to describe it.)

Add the vegan buttermilk you just made.

5. In another medium-sized bowl, beat with an electric mixer, the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla. Turn the speed down and add in the banana mixture a little bit at a time. Once it is all in, add the flour mixture a little at a time until it is all in. If it is a little too thick, then add a little more milk, like 2 tbsp. If the batter is a little too runny, add two tbsp more of the gluten-free flour blend.

6. Put a little less than a fourth cup of the batter into each muffin cup. (There might be a little bit more batter left after you fill all of the muffin cups.

7. Place the muffin pan in the oven and cook for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in one of the muffins in the front comes out clean. (If you insert the toothpick or fork in one of the muffins in the front and it comes out clean, then that means all the muffins are done!)

8. Take the pan out of the oven, take the muffins out of the tins, and let the muffins cool. When they are cool, enjoy them with butter or chocolate frosting. You can store these muffins in the fridge or the freezer, be sure to thaw them before eating them.

Oh, and they freeze well and thaw well with the frosting.

Milora’s Unbelievable Breakfast Banana Muffins Milora, age 12

I choose this recipe because they are unbelievable muffins.

They are gluten-free, moist, soft, and fluffy. They are perfect for breakfast without the frosting.

Ingredients: 1 ⅔ cups gluten-free flour (I used Trader Joe’s gluten-free flour blend) 1 tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda ¼ tsp salt 3 slightly brown medium bananas ⅓ cup unsweetened almond milk ¼ tsp apple cider vinegar 1 stick butter salted butter, also equivalent to eight tbsp. (Trust me, use salted butter!) ½ cup + 2 tbsp coconut sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 350 F. Line a muffin pan with silicone muffin liners. If you are using paper liners, spray them with cooking spray.

2. Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium-sized bowl.

3. In a small bowl, mix the milk and apple cider vinegar. Let that sit for seven minutes. This will make vegan buttermilk.

4. In a medium-sized bowl, mash the bananas until it is goopy.

Recipe for Sugarless Chocolate Frosting This frosting recipe will be enough for about 2 or 3, maybe 4 depending on how much you put on the muffins. You can also double or triple the recipe.

Ingredients: 5 tbsp of salted or unsalted butter 1 tbsp unsweetened almond milk 2 tbsp honey (or you can sweeten to your desired sweetness. I added a little more honey) 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder Instructions: With an electric mixer, beat all ingredients. Be sure that the muffins are fully cooled before you frost a few of them. A faster way to cool the muffins is to put them in the freezer until they are no longer warm.

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

directories www.growingupchico.com

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

Center

Ages

Hours

Curriculum

Contact

Creative Outlets In-Home Preschool

2-6 years

8:30am-1:30pm Monday-Thursday

892-8069 funnyfaces@digitalpath.net www.facebook.com/creativeoutlets

D L T S

Kids Park

2-12 years

2-5 years

Drop-in childcare with affordable hourly rates. The preschool curriculum is offered from 9:00 am-11:30 am.

The 4 and 5-year-old class is held on Monday/Wednesday/Friday, and The 2 and 3-year-old class is held on Tuesday/Thursday.

2477 Forest Ave. 894-6800 www.kidspark.com

Little Sprouts Preschool

M-Th: 8am-10pm, Fri: 8am12midnight, Sat: 10am-12am, Sun:1pm-6pm

Creative Outlets offers a true preschool experience with the benefits of a loving, in-home setting. The owner has 20 years of experience and a degree in child development.

The program focuses on teaching kinder readiness and is tailored to the needs of each student. It incorporates Math, Science & Pre-Reading, utilizing Zoo Phonics, cooking & gardening. Children learn through play, music & art while providing a safe & exciting place to learn & grow.

Exploration/personal growth on an individual basis is encouraged. Nutritional snack & lunch provided.

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.

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.

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

D L A S Y

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

3-5 years

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

License # 045405971

License # 045404701, 045404702

30 growing up chico magazine

License # 045405784

Nature School

Notre Dame Preschool 2.5 License #045407128

years & up

7am-5:30pm Monday-Friday

7:30am – 6pm Monday – Friday

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.

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

Half Days & Full Days Available Preschool & Daycare Available

500 Orient St. (530) 487-7330 preschool@ndschico.org www.ndschico.org/preschool

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

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

T S A

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.

Apple Blossom Baby: pg 23 Chico Creek Dance Centre: pg 5 Chico Mother’s Club: pg 9 Chico Pediatric Dentistry: pg 9 Chico Unified School District: pg 17 Children’s Choice Dental Care: pg 32 DeAnna Holman-ARBONNE: pg 2 Downtown Chico Business Association: pg 7 Erica Callfas, Realtor: pg 5 Forest Ranch Charter School: pg 5 In Motion Fitness: pg 2 Instant Nails: pg 9

Kinetics Academy of Dance: pg 7 Little Sprouts Preschool:

pg 17 North State Ballet: pg 19 Northern Valley Indian Health: pg 15 Park Avenue Photography: pg 19 Run For Food: pg 3 Suk Young Ahn DDS: pg 5 Taming Tangles Hair Salon: pg 9 The Music Connection: pg 17 Thistle and Stitch:

pg 7 Youthful Smiles Dentistry: pg 7

Winter Checklist 31 Things To Do As A Family This Winter 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Go to the snow Make hot chocolate Make cookies Have an indoor scavenger hunt Make homemade soup Watch a Christmas or winter

movie 7. Cut out paper snowflakes 8. Eat a candy cane 9. Do a family puzzle 10. Build a blanket fort 11. Sip hot apple cider 12. Splash in puddles 13. Have a no-screen day 14. Read a holiday story 15. Make a pine cone birdfeeder 16. Have a pajama day 17. Play a board game 18. Do a random act of kindness

19.. Deliver baked goods to a neighbor 20. Visit a museum virtually 21. Donate to a food bank 22. Donate toys you are no longer using to a local charity 23. Bundle up and go for a nature

walk 24. Drive around and look at holiday lights 25. Write a letter to a friend or family member 26. Make a craft or complete an activity from page 24 or 25 27. Go on an outdoor scavenger hunt (see page 26 in this issue) 28. Eat breakfast in bed 29. Take an online yoga class 30. Make a handmade gift 31. Sit by a fire