Fall Issue 2014

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a quarterly resource celebrating family life in butte county

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Fall 2014 August - September - October

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Back to School Issue

Celebrating Growing Up Chico’s

10th Anniversary!

Family Time

Fall Activities for Everyone!

Parenting Help

Ways to Make Parenting Easier Pumpkin Patch Map Inside!

...and as always our ENORMOUS calendar of events!

Rachele Thompson Need advertising? Call Rachele, Growing Up Chico’s own Marketing Manager! When Rachele is not working, she dedicates most of her time raising her 6 year old boy/girl twins. She and her husband Tim, a local middle school teacher, are both CSUC Alumni and enjoy supporting their community through their work. They love to travel, enjoy the outdoors, and love to spend time with their family and friends.

DeAnna Holman When I think of fall in Chico, I think of the breathtaking, warm colors. The rich colors of the trees strike me as I drive down the Esplanade or the Midway in Durham. Bidwell Park is full of greens, browns, oranges, and yellows and it is a perfect time to take walks or bike rides through the beautiful scenery. Pumpkin patches are filled with orange pumpkins and various colored gourds. People begin to put white twinkling lights on trees for fall parties and dinners. The weather can be beautiful with the cool crisp, blue skies and bright yellow sun.

At Growing Up Chico, we hope to help you celebrate fall and make it special to you and your family. We have provided an extensive listing of events and calendar pages.

There is a map that you can use to plan out a visit to a local pumpkin patch or two. You can check out the activities of each pumpkin patch on the map provided and plan a special outing, complete with hay ride, corn maze, pumpkin picking and hot chocolate!

In this issue, the Chico Mall has shared many back-to-school outfits for your kids, as well as gear, to help prepare for the school year. In addition, schools that provide alternative education have shared their programs so that parents can be informed of many educational options. We are excited to start a new, fresh school year!

Also in this issue, we have a new parenting advice column, a parent’s opinion on kids quitting sports, articles on fun family activities that can help the community while you have fun, fast meal ideas, and much more!

For the past 10 years, we have been proud to provide

Growing Up Chico as a way for parents, grandparents,

professionals and kids to share ideas to help make growing up easier. We look forward to the next 10 years! Please feel free to write articles, share ideas, ask parenting questions, send in stories, advertise your business and send in photos for the magazine cover. We love to see what comes in and what you want to see in your Growing Up Chico Magazine!

Thank you fall contributors, advertisers, staff and readers for making this magazine a great issue for you to use as a resource this fall!

I wish you the best of the colorful fall season and I look forward to seeing you in the winter!

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Marne Larsen Publisher

DeAnna is a former teacher and mother of three who is working as a freelance writer, editor, and graphic artist. She currently does the layouts and assists in editing Growing Up Chico! She obtained her BS from USC and her teaching credential from CSUC, Chico. DeAnna is also a breast cancer survivor who will be writing about her experiences. She lives on an almond orchard in Durham with her husband, kids, dogs and cats.

Terry J. Basile,LMFT Terry is a Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Chico. She works with adults, teens, couples and families. The Ask Your Family Therapist column is part of her personal bucket list, as she enjoys supporting healthy parenting. Her book Let’s Color Your Feelings! is a tool for parents and children 3-8 to learn how to communicate feelings positively and avoid acting out behaviors. The book is available through Amazon, Lyons Books and Kindle. She can be reached at tjbasile@yahoo.com.

Tanya Parish Tanya Parish M.Ed., is a local educator with a passion for environmental and outdoor education. She is a third generation Montessori teacher and is currently the program coordinator for Butte Environmental Council’s Recycling and Rubbish Education program. She spends her days in Butte County classrooms sharing with children the importance of recycling and composting.

Outside the classroom, she loves camping and biking with her husband and their two young children.

Andie Sands Andie lives in Paradise with her husband and their 3 year old son. She loves spending time with her family and friends.

Currently, she works part time as a nurse in the Emergency Department at Feather River Hospital and is completing her Master’s Degree in Nursing.

Eric Miller Eric is a consultant and freelance writer based in Chico.

He grew up in Colorado Springs, but has lived in northern California over 20 years. He’s trapped in a household of estrogen, but lives on to tell the story. Eric’s first book, entitled “Let Me Tell You a Story,” is available at Lyon Books in downtown Chico. Or you can order one, available in either digital or hard copy, by visiting www.etcguy.com and follow theAmazon link. Contact him at eric@etcguy.com.

On The Cover: Siblings, Bradley and Megan are ready for school! They both enjoy taking art classes at Chico Art School and theater at C.R.T. Their father, Lowell, is a local mountain bike rider who rides for North Rim and last year won the BUMP race. Their mom, Kelly, enjoys running and taking classes through Fleet Feet. The whole family loves living in Chico!

Preschool Starts August 18th!

Cover Photo By: Amy Evans Photography specializes in custom portrait photography for children, seniors, families, and events, as well as offers portrait parties! Visit her website at www.amyevansphotography.com

Marne Larsen-Publisher (530) 518-6154 marne@growingupchico.com Darci Crossin-Graphic Design DeAnna Holman-Design/Editor For Advertising Information, Contact: Rachele Thompson-Marketing Manager (530) 519-0320 rachele@growingupchico.com Advertising Deadline: To advertise in our upcoming Winter Issue, please contact us by September 30th.

Article and Photo Submission Deadline: Please submit family-friendly and seasonally appropriate photos and informative articles by September 20th.

Growing Up Chico Magazine is published quarterly and available free online, as well as in print at 300 family-friendly locations throughout Butte County. www.growingupchico.com Copyright Š 2014 by Growing Up Chico Magazine. Reproductions without permission are prohibited. Articles and advertisements found in Growing Up Chico Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management.

894-6800

2477 Forest Ave Lic#045404701, 045404702

Come by for a tour!

In Chico For ages 2-12

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Back to School

10 Back to School:

Clothing and Gear Guide

13 Field Trip:

The Patrick Ranch

14 Education Alternatives: Charter & Other Options

18 Not a Typical Sport:

Consider Roller Hockey

Family Time

20 Help Change a Life:

Support Foster Programs

23 Pumpkin Patch Map: Fall Fun For All

25 Indoor Fun:

Autumn Puzzles

Parenting

28 Parenting Q & A:

Ask A Family Therapist

29 Kids Quitting Sports: One Dad’s Opinion

30 Meals In Minutes:

Food Kids Will Love

21 Have Fun, Help Animals: 32 Playing With Your Child: Bidwell Bark Run/Festival

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Toys To Enhance Playtime

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Growing Up Greener 26 Bidwell Park and Creek Clean Up

27 Being Greener: In Seven Steps

IN EVERY ISSUE

04 Editor’s Note 04 Contributors

34 Events Calendar

38 Preschool Directory

39 Advertiser’s Directory: Thank You Advertisers!

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CALI PHONE GEAR

back to school

Back to School

GEAR UP!

CRAZY 8

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Growing Up Chico’s

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CHOICE

I CANDY

CHILDREN’S PLACE ROUTE 66 AT JCPenny!

DISNEY AT JCPenny!

CHILDREN’S PLACE

KARMA

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JCPenny TEEN

...where you can find these items and all your back to school needs...

back to school www.growingupchico.com growing up chico magazine 12

Find us on facebook to ďŹ nd out about family friendly events, giveaways and promotions!

It’s all at: facebook.com/growingupchico

School Field Trip Series: The Patrick Ranch Museum

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he Patrick Ranch Museum is an Interactive Agricultural and Natural History Museum situated on 28 acres, between Chico and Durham. Led by Patrick Ranch volunteers, students will experience the proud heritage of this area as told through many venues including: agricultural development, California history, the Native American story, the evolution of transportation and earth, life and physical sciences.

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he Patrick Ranch’s natural, outdoor setting provides a unique learning experience that encourages handson learning, respect for our environment and stewardship in our youth; all vital to the long-term preservation and values of our historic past and natural resources.

Activities are designed to align with California Common Core State Standards in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades.

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nveloped in a breath taking outdoor classroom, shaded by 260 year old valley oak trees and serenaded by birds, students stand in full view of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and waving fields of wheat! They are primed for learning! The museum’s hands-on curriculum covers a wide spectrum of subjects from how plants grow to how seeds grow into plants.

They visualize the water story with the clouds hitting the Sierras, resulting rain water flowing into streams and periodic winter floods moving alluvial soil from streams to the valley floor. A hands-on erosion table tells the story of our meandering streams and rivers. Evidence of the valleys’ Mediterranean climate is punctuated with fruit trees from oranges, olives and persimmons to bay and lemon trees. They absorb the history of local communities and the Native Americans who first resided here. The four story tank house, standing next to the grand farmhouse, begs the history of the structure and its original purpose.

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his has been a very popular program; over 350 students have been enrolled in the few weeks since spring brochures were delivered to area schools.

Field trips are scheduled to start at 9am and 11am on Wednesdays and Fridays. Field trip rates are $40 per class. Prepaid reservations are required. Interested parties can contact the PRM office Tuesday – Friday from 9am – 12pm at (530) 342-4359. Be sure to visit the website at: www.patrickranchmuseum.org.

back to school www.growingupchico.com

Charter Schools and Other Education Alternatives Hooker Oak Open Structured School

Chico Country Day School

Hooker Oak is a community of life-long learners and a school of choice in the Chico Unified School District. It provides learning based on the foundations of integrated curriculum and instruction, community exploration, parental involvement, and responsible citizenship. With looping, students often have a two year relationship with their teachers. Come join us to discover the joy of creativity, educational excellence, and positive life choices.

Chico Country Day School is a tuition-free, K-8 grade, public charter school that provides a safe, joyful community where all learners are inspired to achieve their personal best. CCDS offers a technology-rich environment, a community atmosphere and innovative, standards-based curriculum. Students participate in an interactive classroom that incorporates integrated thematic curriculum, engaging study trips, music and art. www.chicocountryday.org 102 W. 11th St. 530-895-2650

Grades: K-6 380 students Established in:1964 Student-Teacher ratio: 24:1 Average class size: 24 in K-3

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Thrive

Grades: Ages 4.5 to 13 (with options for 13 to 18 year olds) Student-Teacher Ratio: 8:1 Average Class Size: Max of 16 participants per session time Thrive is an open structured learning environment for families who home-school, with flexible part time and full time options. Our environment is created based on research about optimal learning and growth. Thrive provides a rich, peaceful environment where learning happens naturally all the time. www.ThriveChico.org Cyndi Pereira 530-828-9288

Grades: K-8 550 students Established in:1996 Student-Teacher Ratio: K-3rd: 20: 1 4th-8th Grade: 30:1 Lower Class Sizes Average Class Size: 20 (K-5) 30 (6-8)

Wildflower Open Classroom

Grades: K-8 138 Students Student-Teacher Ratio: 22:1 Average Class Size: 22

Wildflower’s 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. Wildflower endeavors to educate the “whole child” by addressing the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical needs of students. wildflowerschool.com 2414 Cohasset Rd. Ste 3, Chico, CA 95926 530-892-1676

Rose Scott Open-Structured School

Grades: K-12 25 students Student-Teacher Ratio: 7:1 Average Class Size: 5

Are you looking for a small school community that understands your child? The Rose Scott Open-Structured School specializes in students with ADHD, giftedness, Asperger’s, high-functioning autism, physical or learning challenges and individual strengths.

Their students receive adequate time for processing information and utilizing higher level thinking skills, creating greater opportunities for academic success. www.RoseScottSchool.com 850 Palmetto Avenue, Chico, CA 95926 530-354-3101

Sherwood Montessori

Grades: K-8 160 students Student-Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Average Class Size: 23

Sherwood Montessori is a small, free, public, Montessori methods, kindergarten-8th grade school. They provide beautiful classrooms with hands-on Montessori materials and small class sizes. They offer: Spanish language instruction, art, music, cooking and gardening for all ages; Free and reduced federal lunch program; on site, and high quality child care before and after school (free for qualifying families). www.sherwoodmontessori.org 746 Moss Ave., Chico, CA 95926 530-345-6600

Forest Ranch Charter Grades: K-7 in 2014-15, Opening to K-8 in 2015-16 13-14: 124 students, Expected in 14-15: 135 students Student-Teacher Ratio: 22:1 K-4, 25:1 5-8 Average Class Size: 20

Come “elevate your education” at Forest Ranch Charter School. They offer engaging academics, optional full-day kindergarten, GATE, electives, music, art, outdoor education and more on their beautiful, spacious campus. Transportation services provided, between Chico and Forest Ranch, make enrolling today a hassle-free decision.

Contact Info: Phone 530-891-3154 Fax 530-891-3155 info@forestranchcharter.org www.forestranchcharter.org 15815 Cedar Creek Road PO Box 5 Forest Ranch, CA 95942

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back to school

IF TRADITIONAL SPORTS DON’T FIT YOUR KID…

back to school

Consider Roller Hockey T

he rink is located at 250 Walsh Street in Hamilton City, just 10 minutes west of Chico, with ample parking, on-site rental gear, vending machines, and hockey supplies.

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ast-paced, co-ed, and no weekend commitments may make it sound too good to be true, but it’s not!

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ince 2003, North Valley Hockey & Sports Complex

has been providing North State youth with opportunities to learn and thrive in the game of hockey. The league offers three recreational divisions for youth aged 6 to 18, a travel league, and adult leagues too (if you get hooked while watching).

or Thursday- depending on division. For first -time players, a mandatory New Player Clinic will be held at no charge.

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oller hockey has been gaining steadily in popularity since the early ‘90’s.

Now, many colleges field competitive teams and several local players have gone on to compete at that level, with scholarship opportunities made available.

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For additional information, the league’s website is www.nvhsc.org.

his summer, NVHSC is offering “Learn to Play Hockey” clinics every Saturday morning and a Sports Camp the week of July 21-25, featuring hockey, badminton, broomball, and soccer. Family Skate Nights are held the first Friday of every month. all season registration will be available starting in July with practices and games commencing Monday, Tuesday

Help Change a Life for the Better:

family time

Support Local Children and Youth in Foster Care Mountain Circle Family Services is a non-profit community based organization, committed to ensuring stability and life sustaining changes for foster and adoptive children. Did you know there were over 58,000 California children in foster care in 2013? Many of them right here in Butte County. If you would like to change a child’s life for the better- become a foster parent!

to continue learning Independent Living Skills. The THP program facilitates a smooth transition for young adults while offering support, training and guidance. All THP youth attend an educational program; have a job, savings and checking account and learn other important skills. Mountain Circle is looking for young adults to be involved in this rewarding program.

Therapeutic Foster Care

Running with the Bears Marathon, ½ Marathon & 10K

Mountain Circle serves children in foster care through age 18.

Mountain Circle provides a higher level of care than State or county licensed homes and matches a child’s need to a foster family’s strengths. Mountain Circle serves many children with various backgrounds and personal histories.

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Eat Happy with Friends!

How does free groceries sound? Mountain Circle gives back to their Foster Parents by offering free groceries every monthEvery Mountain Circle Foster Parent is eligible for the Eat Happy with Friends program. Ask about the program when you call to sign up!

Transitional Housing Placement Program

Young adults emerging from the foster care system need

Every August, runners from all over the U.S. will arrive in tiny Greenville, CA to help raise money for children and youth in Foster Care! In 2012, this race became a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. Best of all, 100% of funds raised go to our Power Quest Program- and outdoor leadership adventure for youth in foster care.

How can you support?

You don’t have to be a foster parent to help children in foster care. To donate to Mountain Circle, please visit: www. mountaincircle.org/donate

To sign up for a Foster Parent Orientation, call: 1-844-540-8618.

Have Fun & Help Animals at Bidwell Bark Fun Run & Festival Bidwell Bark is back! Chico’s largest pet-friendly family event of the year is coming up on September 27, when thousands of human and canine participants unite in Lower Bidwell Park for an action-packed celebration of pets and the people who love them.

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he day begins with a youth-and dog-friendly 5K Fun Run or 2K Walk under the trees, alongside Big Chico Creek. Running enthusiasts will appreciate the separate start time, gentle USATF certified 5K course, and chipped timing by Under the Sun Events. Increased age and gender division prizes will be awarded for top 5K finishers, from under 10 to 70+ males and females, plus top overall male, female, and dog awards.

Festival admission is free, but anyone wishing to earn incentive gifts, or participate in the walk or run, must register early at BidwellBark.com. Registration is FREE! You may also register as a “Lazy Dog / Cat Napper” if you opt not to run or walk.

At Sycamore Field, a Wide Variety of Festivities Await:

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The Dog Fun Zone and Kid’s Activity Zone are filled with interactive games and activities for pups and kids of all ages.

Enjoy a Bagel Breakfast featuring freshbaked bagels from Brooklyn Bridge Bagel Works, with fresh fruit, coffee and organic juice. Breakfast is $5, or free for registrants who raise at least $25.

Don’t miss the Dog Costume Contest, with prizes for the Most Crafty, Most Aww-inspiring, Best Dog/Owner Duo, and Best in Show.

Kids and dogs alike will love the trained dog demonstrations held in the Sierra Nevada Demonstration Ring.

Shop the Bidwell Bark Boutique featuring quality pet items from Butte Humane Society and event partners, including last-minute gear for the Dog Costume Contest.

Many more vendors, community businesses and partner organizations will be providing information, goods, services, food and FUN!

Raise Money, Help Animals, Earn Prizes!

Participants may register individually or start a team. Teams are a great way to encourage social interaction, perform meaningful community service, fundraise creatively, and work together for a more compassionate community. Clubs and businesses that form a Bidwell Bark team and actively fundraise will be highlighted in Butte

Humane Society’s social media to promote community support and visibility.

Your Participant Center at BidwellBark. com makes it easy to customize your personal and team webpages, import contacts and send emails, take donations online and track all donations you collect. Besides the reward of knowing you are directly helping local animals, we’re offering fun prizes for every fundraising level you reach. From event T-shirts to backpack coolers, to a custom-painted pet portrait; eight levels of prizes await you at Bidwell Bark!

Top individual and team fundraisers receive even more prizes, including the team perpetual trophy and “Leader of the Pack” front-row starting position at Bidwell Bark. A Spirit Stick will also be awarded at the event to the team demonstrating the most spirit, enthusiasm, style, and visible commitment to helping animals. Last year’s Spirit Stick winners were a team of gradeschool girls who clapped and cheered their way to the finish line, celebrating their finish as a top ten fundraising team!

Bidwell Bark is the largest annual community fundraising event for Butte Humane Society (BHS) which is Chico’s largest animal welfare nonprofit and 100% funded by donations. Bidwell Bark proceeds support vital BHS programs, including animal care and adoption, humane education, and public low-cost spay/neuter and clinic services. Last year, our community raised $107,000 during Bidwell Bark. This year, our goal is $120,000 – Will you help make it happen?

Learn more and sign up today at BidwellBark.com. Butte Humane Society’s work is made possible by your donations.

Help us ensure homeless animals get another chance at a happy, healthy life! Together we can raise awareness and support for animals in need, and truly make a difference in the lives of animals and children in our community.

Bidwell Bark Fun Run & Festival When: September 27, 8am - 12pm Where: Sycamore Field at One Mile Recreation Area, Bidwell Park, Chico CA Why: Have fun, help animals and support Butte Humane Society!

Registration and More Information: BidwellBark.com, (530) 343-7917 x107, BHS facilities or events

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family time

LOCAL

PUMPKIN PATCHES AND CORN MAZES

Country Pumpkins

Country Pumpkins is a local family venture, in operation since 2000. They provide the community with a fun and unique family friendly adventure. Visit this “Quiet Place in the Country” where you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and colors of autumn in a relaxed atmosphere: Without the commercialism. They have five acres of pumpkins and gourds and a ten acre corn maze. Anyone can wander the pumpkin field for the perfect pumpkin, adventure through the corn maze, see an antique corn sheller, visit the farm animals, and explore the farm and many other fun activities.

Location: 7152 Hwy. 32, Orland, CA Dates of Operation: October 1st through October 31st.

Hours: Country Pumpkins is open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. www.countrypumpkins.net

TJ Farms

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TJ Farms is the perfect place to celebrate the changing of the seasons.

Each year, the Moss family opens their lovely farm to the public for seasonal festivals-the most popular being the fall Pumpkin Patch. Come pick out a pumpkin on the farm’s lovely grounds, take the kids for a wagon ride, have kids sit on an old tractor, pet the farm animals or visit the pumpkin decorated barn. It’s always fun for the whole family. School and other groups are welcome; please call ahead to schedule.

Location: 3600 Chico Avenue, Chico, CA 95928 Dates of Operation: Until Sunday, October 26 Hours: Large Groups: by appointment, starting at 9am Public: 2-6pm (or dark) on weekdays All welcome on weekends from 10-6pm Phone: (530) 343-2294 www.tjfarmsestates.com

Starting in October, you can come to Maisie Jane’s new plant location, at the corner of Dayton Rd. and Hegan Ln, (just 2.2 miles down the road from the retail store), and either stomp through the pumpkin patch to find that perfect pumpkin, or choose from a pre-cut assortment. They are growing beautiful traditional Jack-o’-lanterns, as well as exotic varieties of pumpkins, and Gourds too! Receive a free bag of almonds with your purchase of a pumpkin.

Location: Hegan Ln. & Dayton Rd., Chico Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9:00am-6pm Phone: (530) 899-7909

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Maisie Jane’s Pumpkin Patch

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Max’s Miracle Ranch Pumpkin Patch

Max’s Miracles/The Max Williams Foundation has been formed to provide hope and direction to families with special children dealing with heart defects, cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

Their goal is to provide assistance to these families in times of need. Max’s Miracles/The Max Williams Foundation is a non-profit organization (NPO), publicly funded through fundraisers and other themed activities, such as the Harvest Festival and Pumpkin Patch. Max’s Miracle Ranch Pumpkin Patch and Harvest Festival opens September 27.

Stop in and pick your own pumpkins, or choose one specially picked for you and kid-approved! Take home some fresh apple cider, ride the train through the orchards and pumpkin patch, go on a hay ride, or just enjoy the people and animals at the Ranch.

Location: 3476 Smith Avenue in Biggs, CA 95917 Dates of Operation: September 27 – October 31 Phone: (530) 354-7168 www.maxsmiracles.org

Come visit the Patrick Ranch Museum’s Autumn Festival! Celebrate fall and pick your own pumpkin or purchase one of the many pumpkins they have chosen. You can join an old fashioned hay ride while visiting the historic grounds of the Patrick Ranch. There will be historic farmhouse tours. The Midway Cafe’ will be open on the weekends from 10AM to 3PM. There will also be a gift shop and plenty of children’s activities. Come have some old fashioned fun!

SCHOOL TOURS ARE AVAILABLE. Location: 10381 Midway-Between Chico and Durham Dates of Operation: October 11-26: Saturdays and Sundays Hours: Daily 10:00am-4:00pm Phone: (530) 342-4359 www.patrickranchmuseum.org

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family time

Help the spaceship fly to the moon and then return to the Earth.

This is a zig zag word search puzzle. Words go left, right, up, down, not diagonally, and can bend at a right angle. No unused letters in the grid, every letter is used only once.

Match the pairs of zig zag shapes to make 6 squares

Find the two identical pumpkins!

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growing up greener

Bidwell Park & Creeks Cleanup: An Educational Connection

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ow can we provide our children with educational experiences that help them to make connections to our fragile planet, all living things, and to their direct role in creating a sustainable future? Local teachers, students, youth groups and families are making connections by participating in the Annual Bidwell Park & Creeks Cleanup on Saturday, September 20th.

to Bidwell Park regularly as an opportunity to give the children an abundance of resources for conducting plant and animal research. The interconnectedness of, and respect for, all living things is a cornerstone of the Montessori environment and curriculum.

It is also a key component in California’s Next Generation Science Standards that are rolling out in all public schools this fall.

This event is a unique opportunity for older children and young adults to participate directly in the sustainability and stewardship of their community. According to Butte Environmental Council, the creeks of Chico provide essential habitat to a number of riparian species of northern California, including threatened and endangered species such as: winter and spring run Chinook salmon, California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, bald eagle, western yellow-billed cuckoo, Swainson’s hawk and bank swallow. By improving the riparian habitat of Chico, we ensure the continued presence of these species for future generations.

As students, like Eric’s, participate in community events like The Bidwell Park & Creeks Cleanup, they are gaining an awareness of civic duty and community participation, as well as compassion for and awareness of the local homeless population. In a lecture given to the Sixth International Montessori Congress, Education and Peace, Maria Montessori proclaimed, “It is absolutely certain that the secret of future human power lies within humanity as it develops - within young people”(1947, p. 37).

Eric Parish is a local Montessori teacher. He takes his class

The Bidwell Park & Creeks Cleanup, organized by Butte Environmental Council since 1986, has resulted in the removal of thousands of pounds of garbage and recyclables from Chico’s creeks by community volunteers. BEC records show

the volume of material collected is amazing, though the type of material is what causes great concern. Past cleanups have recovered large metal items such as: microwave ovens, computers, automobile parts, car batteries, swamp coolers and other potentially toxic items leaching toxins into the creek beds; as well as furniture, mattresses, clothing, toys, and numerous tires. These items were not only blocking significant portions of the creek, but many of them contained possible toxins such as oils, heavy metals, coolants and other petroleum products. With this clean up, as many items as possible are removed from the creeks, significantly improving the general water quality and habitats within the park and creeks.

For older children and young adults to see firsthand the amount of trash and debris that is being recovered, and to participate in its removal, is an experience that provides them an opportunity to directly impact their future and the future of others, in a positive way. To provide children with this type of internalization offers a deeper respect for the subjects of their study within the classroom. Their experience creates a direct connection to

the world around them. It also allows for new connections.

Nani Teves has been participating in the cleanup with her children for many years.

“My kids make connections that I never thought they would.

Because they have picked up so many cigarette butts while doing the cleanup - they now see how disgusting smoking can be.”

Environmental educators continue to emphasize the idea that children are the very elements that may either create or destroy this delicate planet.

As educators and parents, we hold in our hands the potential to give children the tools and to provide the experiences they need to solve the current and very critical dilemma of maintaining a sustainable community and planet. As 10yr old Maile puts it, “I like to pick up garbage at my favorite swim holes, because then when I go there again, it’s clean and I don’t have to see the garbage and then other people don’t need to see it either.”

You can register your group to participate in The Bidwell Park & Creeks cleanup by contacting The Butte Environmental Council at 891-6424 or by visiting their website at www.becnet.org.

My Seven Steps to a "Greener" Lifestyle

By Amy Behlke

I have learned so much in recent years about how my human footprint is impacting the environment. I have been inspired by friends and colleagues to become aware of ways I can reduce my impact on the earth. Through a lot of reading online and in books, I have learned that there are so many small, easy steps that can be taken to tread more lightly on the planet.

My first seven green lifestyle changes are listed below. My family and I have found most of these changes have been surprisingly easy to make and stick with.

I switched my home garbage service to a more eco-friendly company.

The new company in my town has the ability to recycle many more items than the company I used to have. They also provide up to two 96 gallon co-mingle recycle bins and two 96 gallon yard waste bins at no extra charge. As an added bonus, all green waste is taken to be composted rather than dumped in the landfill.

I created my own mini-worm farm for composting at my house- in just 30 minutes!

I was able to create a whole worm environment from just two Rubbermaid bins and a bucket. My worms have been happily consuming all of my kitchen waste and I am now much more aware of how much food we are throwing away. My worm bin sits in my garage right next to my recycle bin and garbage can, easy for sorting items!

I replaced our 12 m.p.g. S.U.V. with a new 30 m.p.g. family car.

This has been the biggest change we have made. Our S.U.V. was paid off, so it was a tough decision to go ahead and get into a car payment again. It was costing us nearly $600 per month to fuel our Suburban’s 44 gallon tank. Our new little Chevy HHR gets 30 m.p.g. and it’s 16 gallon tank will take us over 400 miles; about the same distance as the Suburban, but on much less gas! It turns out the difference in money we are saving on gas is covering the car payment, so we’re saving money and being more eco-friendly. You can’t beat that!

I gave up paper towels and paper napkins forever!

We ran out of paper towels recently and I figured, “Why not?” The next time I was at the store, I picked up some inexpensive dishrags and cloth napkins. I chose different colors for each member of our family so we could use one cloth several times before washing it to keep the laundry down. I was sure this would be a tough one for our family, but to tell the truth, we don’t even miss paper towels or napkins at all! We’re also switching to only recycled toilet paper. Most toilet paper comes from virgin trees; what a waste! According to the National Resources Defense Council (http://www.nrdc.org/), if every household in the United States replaced just one roll of virgin fiber toilet paper (500 sheets) with 100% recycled ones, we could save 423,900 trees!

I vowed to always TRY to remember to use my reusable shopping bags and to bring less plastic bags home.

This has been a hard one for me because I find I often forget to bring my reusable bags into the store! I always have at least two Chico Bags clipped to my purse, so I am set for small trips. I’m really working on remembering to take my larger bags for my big shopping trips. I have lots of different reusable shopping bags, but my favorites for large trips are my “Carry More” bags from the Home Shopping Network.

These bags hold a lot of groceries and have clips so they stay open in the shopping cart; I love them!

I switched from disposable water bottles to re-usable water bottles for my whole family.

Some facts I read at Tappening.com, a site dedicated to the promotion of the use of tap water vs. bottled, got me thinking… 96% of bottled water is sold in single-size plastic bottles, which end up in city trash cans rather than recycling bins. The national recycling rate for all PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles, including soda bottles, is 23.1 percent. If you choose to get your recommended eight glasses a day from bottled water, you could spend up to $1,400 dollars annually! The same amount of tap water would cost around 49cents. Yikes! I bought my Klean Kanteens from a local store. I love the 12-ounce “Teenie Weenie Greenie” bottles for my kids! I got sports tops for my 4-year-old and sippy lids for my 2-year-old. We also have 27oz and 40oz bottles for my husband and me to use. We bought totes from BuiltNY.com to keep our beverages cold and our bottles from sweating or you can get the insulated Kanteens too.

I researched the products my family uses for beauty & grooming and started switching to more natural options.

I never realized we were slathering ourselves in so many awful toxic chemicals! I used a cosmetics safety database by Environmental Working Group called Skin Deep (www.cosmeticdatabase.com). This site will let you type in the name of a product and it rates the product on a scale from 1 to 10, ten being the most toxic, one being the least. There are amazing and interesting reports on thousands of products, providing details about what chemicals may be harmful in each product. SafeCosmetics.org is another great site with information about the chemicals in cosmetics.

parenting

Terry J. Basile, Marriage and Family Therapist

Ask Your Family Therapist Welcome to my first question and answer column for Growing Up Chico Magazine. Here, you get to ask those special questions that are in the back of your mind that you might be embarrassed to ask a friend or relative.

Or perhaps you would like information on dealing with inappropriate behavior, school problems or sibling conflict. I guarantee that your question will help many other parents. While this a parenting advice column, it will be informed by not only my experience being a mom, but my work for over 35 years as a therapist for children and families. Please send your questions to: info@growingupchico.com.

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Q

My daughter’s grandmother takes her for fast food every time she visits her. This is not okay with me, as I work hard to provide her with a healthy diet. How can I tell my mother-in-law to stop doing this without causing bad feelings? BM

Q

A

There is a common expression “Food is Love,” but not always Grandma!

While grandparents get to spoil the little ones, there are boundaries that you as a parent get to express. Do not expect that grandparents know what the boundaries are for your child or even understand that some of them have changed since they had children (gluten, red dye). Part of the joy of being a grandparent is not having to be the one that says “no” and we can go way out there if you don’t put the brakes on. Sometimes we want the little time we have with our grand kids to be so special that we become kids ourselves.

A conversation with your mother-inlaw, about how she needs to help make sure that her grandchild stays healthy, is a start. Encourage simple healthy, homemade meals that your child will like and after she has eaten well, decide what treat might be acceptable. Be patient and gentle with this information. We do not want grandparents to become alienated or sneaky because they feel unappreciated.

I will say that this is more difficult with ethnic food, as it represents the grandparent’s culture. I would encourage you to “pick your battles.” Choose the most important issues to speak up about.

For example, you may not want your child to have a toy gun or watch PG13 movies at grandma’s house. That might be more important than the food issue.

I am worried that my son might have weight issues down the road.

I have taught him to see that there is nothing wrong with overweight people, which is awesome being that I am; But I don’t want that struggle for him, I try to keep active with him and make healthy choices, but how can I make a stronger impact on the importance of a fit body without taking away from the concept that we are all perfect the way we are? NS

A

I believe that this is a fundamental challenge in parenting. How do we teach our children to have respect and compassion for everyone while creating different expectations for themselves?

Support the idea that his being fit has nothing to do with his respect for others who are not. You of course, are beautiful to him, as you should be. I can feel that you want your child not to struggle as you did. Remember you have ‘input’ about your son’s size, but not control.

You are doing the right things in watching his diet and activity level. You can pretty much control this as a young child, but he will makes his own choices as he gets older. You lay the foundation, but he builds the house. Organized sports are great for getting kids active, but not every child will be a star player. By about sixth grade, only the best players will be welcome on teams. So, I would also encourage participation in something like a martial arts program that focuses on self-esteem, respect for others and personal growth. Help him discover what he is good at by exposing him to opportunities in music and art. Really, what this is about is how he feels about himself. We all need to feel special and having a talent that others enjoy helps us to feel that way. From that strong positive core, he will make better decisions about how he treats his body.

Kid’s Quitting: Okay With Dad

By Eric Miller

S

he lasted 90 hours over three seasons. Maggie was not an outlier. Not in soccer.

In Outliers, author Malcolm Gladwell mentions the “10,000-Hour Rule,” which claims that the key to success is a matter of practicing a specific task for around 10,000 hours. Consider Bill Gates, Wayne Gretzky, or Mozart…former prodigies that hit 10,000 hours by their late teens. Maggie will never become an outlier soccer player. She quit 9,910 hours short.

I have always loved team sports and competition, even though I encountered setbacks. I quit baseball after I got eyeglasses. I missed grounders and fly balls, but my batting fared worse. I sank from a .500 average to .005. I only had two hits that season, one dribbling single that I outran to first base, and the other a home run. I was lonesome in the dugout.

In high school football, I played receiver, but did more blocking because I couldn’t remember routes or catch passes. I had bricks for hands and dropped nearly every ball thrown my way except for one miracle over-the-shoulder grab. But like my home run, it never happened twice. I sat on the bench, a rite of passage for back-up juniors. I quit football and sat in the bleachers next to pretty girls my senior year.

I never quit hockey, though. I tried out for a college team, but got cut. Not making a team was not as bad as quitting. At least I pursued a goal- even though I didn’t score any.

So, when Maggie quit soccer, after playing on teams named the Crickets, Lady Bugs, and Sparrows, I understood how she felt.

Maggie wore jersey number 1 because she was the smallest player on her teams. Her teammates were often 20 inches taller and 20 pounds heavier.

I remember Maggie’s second to last game. Her Sparrows, with a record of 0-6, were playing the 1-5 Chickadees. They had a chance to win. The girls swarmed the ball like bees. One Chickadee broke through and fired a shot— into Maggie’s gut. Maggie collapsed, gasping for air. The referees called a time out. I rushed onto the field.

“You did great out there blocking that shot,” I consoled.

“I… can’t…breathe…she…nearly…killed….me!”

“But you stopped a goal, awesome!”

The Sparrows ultimately lost, but Maggie’s teammates, and even the Chickadees, complimented her.

“Don’t worry, that won’t happen again. You have better odds getting struck by lightning. Way to hang in there.”

“Okay…I’ll keep playing.”

The Sparrows practiced hard the following week. Next up were the Vultures, an undefeated team. I prayed the game would not be a feeding frenzy. When Maggie ran onto the field, a Vulture kicked a header straight to her face. My daughter dropped like a sack of potatoes. The referee crew called time out. I carried her from the turf.

“You did great out there blocking that shot…” She didn’t buy it.

“I’ve heard that before. I QUIT.” Along with soccer, Maggie has quit ballet, karate, skiing, and acting. She is now into art, the violin, and snowboarding. She’s discovering what she likes and doesn’t like. I wonder if she will stick with an activity more than 90 hours. That 10,000-hour rule sounds huge, but it’s all about perspective.

In five years, about 44,000 hours, she will leave for college. A third of that time involves sleeping and another 8,000 hours will be spent at school, studying, and activities. Four thousand hours will be spent eating and she’ll probably hang out with friends for 2,000 hours (so long as she does about 1,000 hours of chores). We are now at around 15,000 hours, of which I’m deducting 5,000 hours for family time. We may have 15 hours together on any given week, but that time isn’t guaranteed. We are now approaching 10,000 hours, the remaining time Maggie has, to master an activity before leaving home. That assumes she picks one and doesn’t quit.

Quite frankly, I don’t care if she ever programs code, scores hattricks, or writes concertos. I prefer she try and quit whatever she wants. When I consider Maggie moving away in five years, 10,000 hours does not seem like much time at all.

Meals in Minutes:

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parenting

Quick Kid Friendly Dinners

These three recipes will help you get dinner on the table fast!

By Andie Sands

1

FAST Fish Tacos Kids Will Love!

You will need 2-4 fillets of fresh or thawed tilapia or mahi-mahi.

For the marinade, mix 1/4 cup olive oil with 1/4 cup soy sauce, a squirt of mustard and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar.

Let the fish sit for 10 minutes in the marinade while you preheat oven on ‘broil-high’ and prep the taco fixings.

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Taco fixings: corn tortillas, sour cream, salsa, cheese and fresh lime to squeeze on top (or whatever you like).

To cook, put foil on metal cooking sheet and spray with non-stick spray. Place fish on cookie sheet and pour remaining marinade over top of fish. Broil the fish for 7 to 10 minutes (or until fish is white throughout and not opaque).

Photo Courtesy of naturalnoshing.wordpress.com.

Kids love the sweet and salty taste and it is a very fast dinner.

2

Super Quick Pepperoni Pizza Quadrilles

• • • • •

Grate 3/4 cup mozzarella or jack cheese and place on a tortilla.

Place 10 slices of pepperoni on top, then cover with a second tortilla.

Heat in a pan on a stove top for 1-2 minutes, then flip tortilla and repeat.

Serve with pizza sauce or a simple marinara sauce for dipping.

Serve with a Caesar or other fresh salad.

Make Quick

3

Photo courtesy of www.macaroniandcheesecake.com.

10 Minutes Turkey Taco Salad • • • • • • •

Photo courtesy of:

•

Brown 1 lb. of turkey meat; while it is cooking, prep salad.

Wash salad and place in bowls for each person.

Crumble up tortilla chips and place on top of salads.

Drain and rinse 1 can of corn and 1 can of black beans; place 2 scoops on top of each salad.

Grate cheddar cheese and place on each salad.

Add 1 dollop of sour cream to each salad and one spoonful of mild chunky salsa.

Stir in 1/2 packet of mild taco seasoning to turkey, then add turkey to each salad.

Toss salad with ranch or Catalina dressing for a sweet flavor.

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parenting

The featured toys, as well as many others, are available at

events eventscalendar calendar

MOPS Chico: MOPS

at Grace Community Church: support group for mothers of children 0-preschool, just like you! Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays September-May. Call for more information: 343-5528. Free Childcare.

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

Please call ahead to confirm events.

Ongoing Events Gateway Science Museum:

Come explore the Gateway. Many hands on exhibits for kids and families of all ages. Open Wed. through Sun. noon to 5pm. For more information, call 898-4121 or visit www.csuchico.edu/gateway.

Chico Certified Farmers’ Market-Saturdays: Take advantage of all the wonderful produce grown locally at Chico’s year round Farmers’ Market. Every Saturday from 7:30am-1pm, rain or shine. Located at 2nd and Wall St parking lot.

Chico Museum:

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

Open Wednesday - Sunday, noon to 4pm; donations gladly appreciated. Located at Second and Salem Streets, Downtown Chico. Phone 891-4336, or visit www.chicomuseum.org.

La Leche League offers mother-to-mother support for breastfeeding. Children welcome. First Friday of every month, 10am-11:30am. Free. Find them on Facebook to find support between meetings. Bidwell Presbyterian Church in the Church nursery, 208 West First St. 591-9191. Another group meets the third Tuesday of each month from 10-11:30. Meetings are held in private homes and locations change periodically. Please call 514-1313 for Tuesday meeting information.

Rowell’s Pals Playgroup: A diverse playgroup for parents & little ones ages 1-5, of all abilities. Come sing, dance, read & play. 10-11am, Fridays. Free; preregistration encouraged. Rowell Family Empowerment of N. CA, 3075 Cohasset Rd., #2. 899-8801.

Childbirth Preparation: 5-week series taught by highly trained registered nurse instructors will help prepare you for birth, newborn care & breastfeeding. Promotes individual & family choices, including natural breathing & relaxation techniques & pain management options. Wednesday evenings, 6-8:30pm. On-going. Pre registration with payment required. Call 332-3970 for more information or to register.

Athletic Horizons has the ultimate playgroup! Takes place on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month for all children, walking to 5 years old. Contact for more information: 893-4967 or www.athletichorizons.com.

Pregnancy Education Series: This four-week childbirth education series is designed to prepare expectant women and their support person for their childbirth experience. We recommend that you choose to attend a session that ends one month before your baby is due. Call 876-2518 to register or go to www.frhosp.org for more information.

Kids Night Out:

Fridays at In Motion Fitness from 5:30-9:30. Each night includes dinner and an exciting activity. Must pre-register. Call 895-kids or visit www.inmotionfitness.net to find out more.

Enloe’s Mother and Baby Education Center:

Chapman Food And Fitness Festival: Every Friday from 2–5:30p.m. at 1010

MOMS: (Making Our Mothering Significant) is a group of moms who get together to share the joys and challenges of motherhood. Every mom needs a community that will encourage and support her. 1193 Filbert Ave, on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 9am, from September through May. Child care is provided. First meeting is free! Contact EVFree Church for more information: 343-6022.

Cleveland Ave. This event is a certified Farmers’ Market, as well as a health forum, and it takes place all year. For more information, call 624-8844 or visit www.cChaos.org.

Family Swim: The 90 degree indoor pool is always comfortable any time of year.

Family Swim is open to anyone (no membership required) on Fridays from 5-8 pm. Cost is just $2 per person. For more information, contact Chico Water Sprites at 342-2999 or visit www.chicowatersprites.com.

The Chico Air Museum is located at the Chico Municipal Airport. This museum features air exhibits that are fun for the whole family! Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9am-4pm. FREE! 147 Convair Court, 3456468.

Home Depot Kids Workshops:

Chico & Oroville. Hands-on building workshop for ages 5-12. Saturdays, 9am-12pm. Free. Chico: 342-0477; Oroville: 538-0521.

Lowe’s Build and Grow Workshops:

Free kids clinic every Saturday at 10am.

Must pre register at: www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Butte County Library:

growing up chico magazine growing growin up up chico chico magazine magazine

La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Group:

Fantastic Fridays:

Chico Air Museum:

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Chico Creek Nature Center: Bidwell Park was made for exploring and having fun. The Chico Creek Nature Center offers kids of all ages a place to interact with animals, nature, discover Bidwell Park’s diverse ecosystem and learn about preserving this natural resource. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11am-4pm. 1968 East 8th Street, 891-4671, bidwellpark.org.

Preschool Storytime for 3-5 years, stories, songs & craft Tues-10am and 11am; Babies Love Books 0-18 mos. stories, songs & bounces Wed-9:30am and 10:30am; Toddler Story time for 1-3 years stories, songs & action rhymes Fri-10am and 11am. Please call for more information on Japanese Story time, Spanish Story time, Chinese Story time, and Chess Club. 891-2762, www. buttecounty.net/library.

Free Tennis Clinic: Held every Saturday at the Chico Racquet Club at 10am, open to all ages. 1629 Manzanita Ave, 895-1881.

Sunny Garden Montessori Mommy and Me Playgroups:

An ongoing weekly PLAYGROUP for children and their parents. Children will be introduced to stimulating toys and activities; all guided by their parent! Please call 343-3101 for more information or visit www.sunnygardenmontessori.com.

Sliver Dollar BMX:

First race is FREE for those looking to try something new here in Chico! There are racers as young as 3 years old and all ages are welcome!

Practice/racing every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, weather permitting. “Like” us on Facebook www.facebook.com/sdbmx to receive current track updates.

Roo’s Zoo Skate Session at Cal Skate:

Join Roller-Roo for this specially designed session for kids 10 & under–strollers welcome. 10am-12pm. $5.50/child, includes quad skate rental (parents skate for $2.75); or $25/6-weeks. 343-1601.

Offers ongoing before baby classes, after baby classes as well as safety classes. Call 332-3970 to register or go to www.enloe.org and click on Mother and Baby Care Center for more information.

Chico Art School: Classes in painting and drawing for ages 7+. All levels. Monday-

Saturday. Email for homeschool, after school and adult class availability. $25 per class-1 1/2 hr. Email Janet@chicoartschool.com or find them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChicoArtSchoolandGallery.

Book Family Farm:

Fun, Educational, Year Round Field Trips & Tours, and GrassFed Meats. For up to date info, “like us” on Facebook, visit bookfamilyfarm.net, or contact bookfamilyfarm@gmail.com.

Open Playgroup: Held at Discovery Place Child Development Center every second

and forth Friday from 9:30am to 11:30am. Please contact for dates. 899-8168, www.discoveryplacechico.com.

Chico Yo Yo Club:

Come learn new tricks, show off your skill, & win great prizes.

Bird in Hand in Downtown Chico. Every Saturday at noon. 893-0545.

Barnes & Noble Storytime: Held weekly on Wednesdays at 11am and Saturdays at 2pm in the children’s book section. Every 3rd Friday, join them for American Girls Club at 7pm. Call 894-1494 for more info.

Chico Dojo: Kids Karate classes for kids 3 and up. 30 years of teaching experience.

Classes include: All Belts Kids Karate, Adults All Belt Karate, Kabudo (Weapons Training), and Advanced Karate. Please call 898-9753 or go to www.chicodojo.com.

Thursday Night Farmers Market: Explore Downtown Chico’s Thursday Night Market Weekly, through September 25th, 6-9pm on Broadway from 2nd to 5th Street.

Farm-fresh produce, delicious food, arts and crafts, and live entertainment! Authentic crafts and artwork, handmade clothing and jewelry, mouth-watering foods, personal services and community organizations are just some of what you’ll find. Plus, certified farmers offer the season’s freshest assortments of fruits & vegetables, flowers, nuts, honeys, and more. A diverse selection of local musicians and entertainers showcase their talents each week. www.downtownchico.com.

Museum of Northern California Art (MONCA):

The Museum of Northern California Art (MONCA) opens the door to world-class art works for everyone. The mission of the Museum is to make art accessible and promote awareness of northern California artists through collections, exhibitions, and educational programs. www.monca.org.

Chico Doula Circle: Hosts free public workshops twice a month, giving you the opportunity to meet the doulas and receive information tailored to your needs. 1st Thursday, 7-8pm. 3rd Sunday 2-3pm. www.chicodoulacircle.com, 518-0421.

Jazzercise:

FREE Childcare! Contact for more details and class times. 896-9743, www.jazzercise.com.

Patrick Ranch Museum:

The Patrick Ranch Museum is open on Saturdays for tours of Glenwood Farm house. Visitors can take a tour of the ranch, visit the chickens and see the variety of birds. Tours from 11am-3pm. See online for upcoming events on Saturdays at www/patrickranchmuseum.org or call 342-4359. The cost is $5.00 per person or children 5 years and under are free.

The Mom Spot: A place for mothers of young children (birth through kindergarten)

to connect by building friendships and sharing experiences. Meets on second and fourth Tuesdays of the month 9-11:30 am (September-May). Join us for a hot breakfast, craft, speaker, and free onsite child care. Yearly membership fee is only $10! Meets at Paradise Alliance Church 6491 Clark Rd. Paradise-call for questions 877-7069.

The Nest: The Nest is a collection of highly trained professionals serving women and their families. From pregnancy to birth and through the postpartum period. They provide a range of services, classes, and events to support and empower our clients and their families. Located in the heart of Chico, they look forward to sharing their beautiful, comfortable space with you! For more info and a complete listing of classes, go to www.theNestChico.com.

Milk & Honey Mondays: A

weekly moms group for moms with babes 0-18 months. Facilitated by local mamas as an open forum to check in, swap stories and learn from one another. Once a month they will invite a guest speaker from the community to share their wisdom. Drop-in group - a $5 donation is appreciated. FIRST MEETING FREE!!! Located at The Nest, held weekly on Mondays, 10-11am, www.theNestChico.com.

Great Expectations: If you’re a Mama-to-be in Butte County, The Nest

Prenatal Support group is the place for you! Come join us as you journey through your pregnancy experience. These groups offer an opportunity to meet other expecting mamas, learn about pregnancy & birthing options, form friendships and build a network of resources & support that will positively impact you, your child and family! Partners welcome. $5 donation per family appreciated~ ALL mamas welcome. Located at The Nest, held weekly on Wednesdays, Drop-in group, 10-11 am, www.theNestChico.com.

New Mothers Circle:

This is a drop in Postpartum Mom & Baby Support Group.

It is designed to support new moms through the transition into motherhood. Learn about local resources available to address any challenges you may have and meet other moms who can appreciate your experience. Come in, let your guard down, and get the support and encouragement you deserve! $5 donation appreciated~ ALL mamas welcome. Located at The Nest, held weekly on Thursdays, 10-11 am, www.theNestChico.com.

Prenatal Yoga with Serra Wells:

Thursdays from 5:30-6:30pm. Prenatal Yoga is beneficial for any stage of your pregnancy and no prior yoga experience is necessary.

The practice will help ease common discomforts, help prepare for childbirth, and provide a supportive community of mamas to be! www.theNestChico.com

Kids in Safe Seats:

Low cost car seat program for Butte County residents. For more info on this program, please call Butte County Public Health 800-339-2941.

Car seat class schedule: August 14th in Chico, September 11th in Oroville, October 9th in Chico. Classes offered in various languages.

August Eagles Yard Sale and Bake Sale Friday, August 1st-Sunday, August 3rd

Proceeds from this event will benefit Eagles Auxilary of Chico. Hot dogs, chili, and bevergaes will be served! Friday: noon-6pm, Saturday: 8am-4pm, Sunday: 8am-2pm.

Eagles Hall, 1940 Mulberry St. Chico.

Summer Owl Prowl Saturday, August 2nd

Join the Nature Center for our most popular night hike, the Summer Owl Prowl! Come look for these birds of prey and meet our very own Western Screech Owl up close.

Perfect for all ages. For more info and to register, please go to www.bidwellpark.org.

Individual Tickets go on Sale for Chico Performances!

Monday, August 4th

Individual tickets for Chico Performances go on sale today at the University Box Office, corner of W 3rd & Chestnut Streets.

Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils Wednesday, August 6th

Free class held at Apple Blossom Baby, 1372 Longfellow Ave, Chico, 10am. Friends, family and children welcome. For more information visit www.facebook.com/thisoilylife.

Stansbury House Ice Cream Social with Silent Auction Friday, August 8th

5th and Salem Streets. For info, call 342-4570. Pre-sale tickets can be purchased at: Art etc., Brambley Cottage, Cal Java (East Ave location), Grace Jr., Powell’s Sweet Shoppe, & Zucchini and Vine. Silent Auction will close at 7:30pm There will be a Door Prize and a Raffle Ticket opportunity to win an Orient & Flume art piece.

Turtle or Tortoise? Preschool Program Saturday August 9th

11AM-12PM: Turtles are some of our most ancient and unique animals. Why are they so slow? Can they take their shells off as they do in cartoons? We will learn about different types of turtles, go on a short walk to look for them, make our own turtle craft, and meet our famous Desert Tortoise John. www.bidwellpark.org.

BidwellPark.org John Bidwell’s Birthday-A Walk through Time at Bidwell Mansion Sunday, August 10th

Bidwell Mansion Association is inviting the greater Chico area to join in the birthday celebration for John Bidwell on Sunday, Aug. 10, from 6-8 p.m. at the mansion located at 525 The Esplanade. Featured are “Walk Through Time” vignettes with hands-on activities in the front yard. Visit with John and Annie Bidwell in the mansion kitchen and listen in on their conversations with their foreman, staff and Annie’s nephew. There will also be a drawing for a beautiful painting and lots of fun surprises for the kids. For more info call 898-8016.

Bishops Gate Golf Academy Junior Open Monday, August 11th -Thursday, August 14th

Butte Creek Country Club will serve as the host for 84 of the nation’s and the world’s best junior golfers. Community members looking to find out more information or get involved with the event can contact tournament director, Patrick Plank, at pplank@ajga.org or call (678) 425-1720. 175 Estates Drive.

Family Skate Night: North Valley Hockey, go to www.nvhsc.org for more info.

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Dragons and Damsels Guided Tour Saturday, August 16th

Dragonflies and Damselflies are also some of our most colorful insects. We will learn about their dual existence as aquatic and terrestrial animals, look at specimens in Kristie’s Nature Lab, and walk along the banks of Big Chico Creek for a sample of some of the extraordinary diversity of these insects in Bidwell Park. www.BidwellPark.org.

Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils Sunday, August 17th

Join us for an unforgettable experience and learn how Young Living Essential Oils could be the missing link in creating optimum health and wellness in your everyday life! Free class held at Apple Blossom Baby, 1372 Longfellow Ave, Chico, 11am. Visit www.facebook.com/thisoilylife.

Concours de la Chapelle Classic European Car Show Saturday, August 23rd

An elegant summer evening with beautiful European show cars, local art, food, cocktails, music and so much more! Stroll the gorgeous grounds of Chapelle de L’Artiste while sipping your favorite libation and enjoying food from 3 of the region’s top caterers. This unique event benefits Northern California Ballet. Early bird tickets available now at www.concoursdelachapelle.eventbrite.com for just $65. Or contact us for information regarding show cars. 3300 Inspiration Lane, Paradise.

September

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Paula Poundstone Friday, September 5th

Paula Poundstone describes her performances as “like a cocktail party.” She talks about her day, tells stories, asks people questions, and takes the audience on a hilarious twohour romp. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com or call 898-6333.

Red, White & Blue Collar Country Festival Saturday, September 6th

A new festival will bring a variety of country music acts to Chico for a night of fun for all ages. The “Red, White and Blue Collar Country Music Festival” will be held at Manzanita Place in Chico from 3 to 10 p.m. In addition to music, the event will feature more than 50 vendors, multiple food trucks and bars as well as bounce houses for kids, a free photo booth, face painting and many other activities for people of all ages.

All tickets can be purchased on the festival’s website at www.bluecollarcountryfest. com.

Love on the Rocks 5K & 10K Team Challenge Saturday, September 6th

We are pleased to present a new run in Chico! The 2nd Annual Love on the Rocks 5K & 10K Team Challenge is set for 8am. Grab a friend, grab a loved one, grab a neighbor and come run North Rim Trail with us! The Love on the Rocks will begin and end at 5 Mile Recreation Area off Centennial Avenue. We will utilize Wildwood Trail, Middle Trail, North Rim Trail and Blue Oak Trail. The run is tough and we think everyone will do better with a partner! (Don’t we always do better when we are supported by someone we love?) We will use the combined times of the couple for the awards ceremony. It is not mandatory that teams hold hands as they cross the finish line…but it is STRONGLY encouraged and may even be rewarded! For more info call 966-3241.

Neil Simon’s ‘Barefoot in the Park’ Saturday, September 6th-Sunday, September 21st

BAREFOOT IN THE PARK is loaded with laughs and love. Chico Theater Company 166 Eaton Rd, Chico.

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Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils Wednesday, September 10th

Join us for an unforgettable experience and learn how Young Living Essential Oils could be the missing link in creating optimum health and wellness in your everyday life! Free class held at Apple Blossom Baby, 1372 Longfellow Ave, Chico, 10am. For more info visit www.facebook.com/thisoilylife.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Circus Friday, September 12th-Sunday, September 15th

Behold the living legends! Children of All Ages will believe in the unbelievable with the all-new circus spectacular, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents LEGENDS, coming to the Sacramento’s Sleep Train Arena! To buy tickets please go to: Ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

Funkadesi Friday, September 12th

Funkadesi’s mantra is “one world—one music,” and they bring their positive musical message to the 21st annual Chico World Music Festival. Mixing reggae, Indian ragas, and Latin and African rhythm with funk and soul, this 10-member multi-cultural group of musicians creates a beautiful stew of sound. Funkadesi is sure to get the Chico World Music Festival off to a good start. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com or call 898-6333.

On Ensemble Saturday, September 13th Los Angeles-based, Taiko Drumming Ensemble fearlessly takes the tradition in new directions. Free! Held at the World Music Festival on the Chico State Campus. www.chicoperformances.com.

Masters of Hawaiian Music Saturday, September 13th

Grammy winners and National Endowment for the Arts Masters share music, stories, culture, and joy. Led Kaapana, George Kahumoku Jr. & “Uncle” Richard Ho’opi’i. Chico World Music Festival, FREE! www.chicoperformances.com.

Mossy Creek Saturday, September 13th

Performing bluegrass and Americana music with sweet harmonic vocals- a true Chico favorite! FREE! Chico World Music Festival on the Chico State Campus. www.chicoperformances.com.

Los Caballitos del la CanciÓn Saturday, September 13th

“The Little Horses of the Song” fuse Latin styles from South America, Mexico, and Spain.

FREE! Chico World Music Festival on the Chico State Campus. www.chicoperformances.com.

Taste of Chico Sunday, September 14th

The finest local and regional restaurants, breweries, wineries and beverage distributors treat event participants to fabulous fare while they stroll Downtown streets brimming with entertainment, arts, and culture. Four stages host continuous, live music, while the “Open Air Art Gallery” proudly showcases the work of dozens of local fine artists.

Don’t miss northern California’s premier Food & Beverage Festival! 12pm-4pm, www.downtownchico.com for ticket info.

The National Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China Tuesday, September 16th

Direct from Beijing, the National Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China was founded in 1951 and is one of the most acclaimed acrobatic troupes in China. Their new performance, Cirque Peking, showcases acrobatics, juggling, aerial work, dance, and traditional Chinese music. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com or call 898-6333.

Bidwell Park & Creeks Cleanup Saturday, September 20th

This event is a unique opportunity for older children and young adults to participate directly in the sustainability and stewardship of their community. According to Butte Environmental Council, the creeks of Chico provide essential habitat to a number of riparian species of northern California, including threatened and endangered species.

You can register your group to participate by contacting The Butte Environmental Council at 891-6424 or by visiting their website: www.becnet.org.

Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils Saturday, September 20th

Join us for an unforgettable experience and learn how Young Living Essential Oils could be the missing link in creating optimum health and wellness in your everyday life! Free class held at Apple Blossom Baby, 1372 Longfellow Ave, Chico, 11am. For more info visit www.facebook.com/thisoilylife.

Nature Detectives Preschool Program Friday August 22nd

11AM-12PM: For the curious kid, nature is full of wonder. Who made those footprints?

Who lives under that rock? We’ll go out with our magnifying glasses and see what we can spy, make a craft, and meet one of our animals! BidwellPark.org.

Alice in Wonderland JR., Blue Room Young Company Thursday, September 25th

Travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice’s madcap adventures in Wonderland as she chases the White Rabbit, races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, raps with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar, and beats the Queen of Hearts at her own game! We guarantee you’ll leave the theater singing! For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com or call 898-6333.

Dinner With a Scientist - Chico Science Fair Fundraiser Friday, September 26th

Hands-on activities & Silent Auction begin at 5:00pm. Buffet Dinner at 6:00pm.

Keynote at 7:30, “Every Drop of Water Counts: Our Place in the Hydrologic Cycle:” A brief presentation by Thad Bettner, General Manager of the Glen-Colusa

Irrigation District. For further information visit www.chicosciencefair.org or call Jane at 899-7508. Tickets will be sold only in advance of the event. Seating is limited. Tickets are available for sale at: Creative Apple, Lyon Books or Zucchini & Vine. Tickets can be purchased online at www.chicosciencefair.org with a credit card. The dinner is the annual fundraiser for the Chico Science Fair in March. Sierra Nevada Big Room.

Bidwell Bark Fun Run & Festival Saturday, September 27th

Join us for the Bidwell Bark Fun Run & Festival, Butte County’s most pet-friendly family festival and the largest annual community fundraising event for Butte Humane Society.

Friendly dogs on leash are welcome at this event, but not required. Registration is FREE, but you must raise at least $25 to receive the official Bidwell Bark T-shirt, goodie bag and bagel breakfast at the event. Register for either the 5K Fun Run or the leisurely 2K Walk through scenic, shady Lower Bidwell Park. Dogs on leash and strollers are welcome in either course option. Many fine pet-related vendors and community businesses will be onhand. One-Mile Recreation Area, Bidwell Park, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM. For more info please go to www.buttehumane.org.

October Country Pumpkins Opening Day Wednesday, October 1st

Country Pumpkins pumpkin patch is open daily from 10am-6pm, October 1st-31st. Corn Maze: Open daily (10:00am-5:00pm). Haunted Maze, animals, Hay Slide plus more! Family Night: The 1st Friday and Saturday nights of October; 6 to 9 p.m. Find your way through the ten acre corn maze in the dark of night, no haunting involved. Located at 7152 Hwy. 32, Orland. www.countrypumpkins.net.

Sweet Repeats Sale Thursday, October 2nd- Sunday, October 5th

Sweet Repeats is a seasonal infant, children, teen and maternity consignment sale. We are excited to bring you a great way to buy and sell high quality like-new and gently-used children’s and maternity items all under one roof.

Harvest Sidewalk Sale Friday, October 10th & Saturday, October 11th

Rake in the savings and celebrate the changing season at Downtown’s annual Harvest Sidewalk Sale. Early birds shop on Friday too! It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up some incredible deals and even get a jump-start on holiday shopping. www.downtownchico.com.

Okee Dokee Brothers - Educational Adventure Songs Monday, October 13th

Band mates and musical educators, Joe and Justin, won the 2013 Grammy for Best Children’s album with “Can You Canoe?” Their music is rooted in Americana Folk, mixed with a little bit of rock and a lot of energy, and encourages kids and families to get outside and explore nature. The Okee Dokee Brothers make learning about nature fun! For tickets, go to www.chicoperformances.com or call 898-6333.

10th Annual FOCUS Film Festival Thursday, October 23d-Saturday, October 25th

The 10th annual FOCUS Film Festival kicks off in Sierra Nevada’s Big Room at 6:30 p.m. A three day celebration of diversity and inclusion, screening documentary and narrative films that explore the complexity of the human experience. Held at Chico State’s Colusa Hall. For more information visit FocusFilmFestCalifornia.com.

MUMMENSCHANZ Tuesday, October 28th

Founded in Paris in 1972, MUMMENSCHANZ forever changed the world of mime-masque theatre. Audiences of all ages and from around the world have marveled at MUMMESCHANZ’s larger-than-life playful objects, evoking wonder from children and offering us all insight into our human condition. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com or call 898-6333.

Treat Street Friday, October 31st

Treat Street is a safe and fun adventure for children 12 and under. It’s simple... wear a costume, bring a parent and get ready to stroll downtown Halloween-style. More than 60 businesses are listed on the Treat Street route: just follow the map to the nicest merchants in town! Be on the look out for special posters in the windows of participating businesses. Activities, entertainment and special vendors will be set up in City Plaza. 2-5pm. www.downtownchico.com.

Looking for the Local Resources section?

Our local resource listings have moved. Please check out our website for a full listing of local, family friendly resources.

www.growingupchico.com

directories

P re s c h o ol & C hildc are Direc tory Center

Ages

Hours

Curriculum

Contact

Chico Country Day Preschool

3-6 years

8:30am-11:30am & 12:15 - 3:15pm & 12:30-2:45pm

Chico Country Day Preschool offers small, individualized class sizes with low teacher-to-student ratio. They provide a safe, joyful environment that celebrates learning through multi-sensory hands-on activities. The program supports children in becoming lifelong learners who gain independence with a positive self image.

102 W 11th St. Chico, CA 95928 895-2650 ext. 116 www.chicocountryday.org/Programs-/ Preschool

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Chico Montessori Children’s House

2.9-5 years

8:30am-5:30pm Monday-Friday

814 Glenn St. Chico, CA 95928 342-5518 www.chicomontessori.com

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Creative Outlets In-Home Preschool

2-6 years

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

The goal of the Montessori approach is to help the child acquire the confidence and motivation he or she needs to fulfill his or her best potential. This is done by providing an environment with activities that fit the child’s individual needs, builds his/her interests, and nurtures his/her enthusiasm.

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 is provided.

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

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Dragonfly Playschool

2.5-5 years

8am-12noon Monday-Friday

Dragonfly Playschool is an enriching play-centered program. It is designed to meet the expanding needs of young children in an intimate home-based setting.

Curriculum is designed to encourage children to be independent, creative, constructive and cooperative.

ECO-Healthy Certified, Organic meals and seasonal inspired lessons are created by a credentialed teacher.

864-5916 www.dragonflyplayschool.com

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Kidspark

2-12 years

Drop in childcare, affordable hourly rates. The preschool curriculum is offered from 9:00am-11:30am. 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. Chico, CA 94928 894-6800 www.kidspark.com

La Casita Primera Preschool

2.9-5 years

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

Little Sprouts Preschool

2-5 years

7am-6pm Monday-Friday

La Casita Primera is a Preschool Program offering: Pre-K readiness, organic nutrition, bilingual enrichment, play, teacher and student directed activities, multi-age groups, gardening, art emphasis, and discovery with 1:6 teacher child ratios.

Little Sprouts Preschool offers: ECO Green, organic gardening, and recycling. The Kindergarten readiness program has Zoo Phonics, Into to Spanish, French & Sign Language. Daily circle time and enrichment activities.

Nutritious snacks and lunch included.

2035 Esplanade 343-3044 lacasitaprimera@att.net, http://www. lacasitaprimera.com/

D L A S Y

15 Overland Ct. Chico, CA 95928 345-0123 littlesproutspreschool1@gmail.com

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Parkside Daycare

0-9 years

6am-6pm Monday-Friday

1885 E. 8th St. Chico, CA 95928 893-5122 www.parksidedaycare.com

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Wood Family Farm

3-8 years

8:30am-5:30pm Monday-Friday

Come Discover with Parkside Daycare! They offer 4 preschool classes, including a “Junior Kindergarten.”

Daily enrichment classes include: creative movement, Spanish, cooking, gardening, park walks (Bidwell Park is at our doorstep), and award winning Kindermusik and Zoo Phonics programs. Limited space for fall enrollment.

CALL TODAY!

343-7120 www.WoodFamilyFarm.net

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License # 045404389

License # 045401420

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

License # 045405971

License # 045405821

License # 045404701, 045404702

License # 045406027

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License # 045405784

License # 045405614

License# 045406227

8:30-11:30am & 1:00-4:00pm

Hooray, let’s PLAY! Wood Family Farm is committed to offering classic early childhood education in an alternative play-based format. They inspire learning through their Nature-based, tactile, interactive curriculum. They have a large organic garden, barn with animals and more! Wood Family Farm is a place to grow!

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

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Growing Up Chico’s Business Directory Ampla Health: Apple Blossom Baby: Best Fed Breastfeeding: Bidwell Rock N Roll: Bricks 4 Kidz: Butte County 211: Butte County 4H: Butte Environmental Council: Butte Humane Society: Chico Bullpen Baseball Academy: Chico Country Day School: Chico Creek Dance Centre: Chico Creek Nature Center: Chico Dojo: Chico Doula Circle: Chico Massage Studio: Chico Montessori Children’s House: Chico Mothers’ Club: Chico Pediatric Dentistry:

Chico Performances: Chico Rockstars: Country Pumpkins: Creative Outlets Preschool: Dignity Health, St. Elizabeth’s Community Hospita l: Downtown Chico Business Association: Dr. Couk, DDS: Dr. James Wood, M.D.: Family Eye Care Optometry: Feather River Hospital: Forest Ranch Charter School:

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Funny Faces Chico: Hooker Oak School: HYPE Dance Studio: In Motion Fitness: Italian Cottage: JEI Learning Center: Kids In Motion (In Motion Fitness): Kids Park:

La Casita Primera Preschool: Lavender Ranch: Little Sprouts Preschool:

Paradise Connection: Parkside Daycare: Progressive Schoolhouse: PTL Pediatric Day Health Center: Rejuvene: Ringling Bros.: Rose Scott School: Round Table Pizza: Sherwood Montessori: Sunny Garden Montessori: Sweet Repeats Chico: The Creative Apple: The Nest: Thrive Learning Center: Valley Oak Children’s Services: Watersprites Swim School: Wildflower School: Wood Family Farm Preschool: Youthful Smiles Dentistry:

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