Spring 2015 Issue

g

a

z

i

n

e

!

a

ee

m

fr

a quarterly resource celebrating family life in butte county Spring 2015 February - March - April

Celebrate Multiple Birth Awareness!

A Brush With Discovery Art For All Ages

Top 10 Reasons

Being A Mom of Twins is Great!

It’s Time For the Annual Women in Business Issue!

Springtime in Chico

Classes, Activities, and More

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

Springtime in Chico is such a beautiful time of year.

It is such a great time to get out and about as a family.

This spring, we will be sure to attend many local events; there are so many activities from which to choose!

Growing Up Chico Magazine always looks forward to meeting the community and sharing about our magazine. If you see us at an event, be sure to stop by and say hello.

My team and I have put together some great articles in this issue. As you might already know, I have a soft spot for twins and multiples. Being married to a twin and having twins myself, I wanted to highlight Multiple Birth Awareness month this April. There is an article about being a twin mom on page 29 and on the cover of this issue, we have 3 sets of Chico multiples!

There are also articles in this issue that deal with parenting and the dilemmas parents may face while raising children. There are also tips on how to help other parents cope with a loss, and an informational article on HypnoBirthing®.

In addition to these articles, we are excited to feature our Annual Women In Business section. I feel so grateful to live in a community where we have so many talented, hardworking, passionate businesswomen. Be sure to check out pages 30-33 and read all about them.

I am always surprised at the number of articles we get each season and it makes me smile. It shows that our efforts to provide information about growing up in Chico are not in vain and that people believe in us and the magazine. So, to that I say: Thank you! I cannot wait to see what you send in next!

Thank you also to our magazine staff, our advertisers, and the community for the overwhelming support. We could not produce this magazine without you! If you do business with any of our advertisers, please be sure to mention you saw their ad in Growing Up Chico.

Thank you for making Growing Up Chico your family’s resource. Happy spring!

Marne Larsen Publisher marne@growingupchico.com

DeAnna Holman DeAnna is a 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, dog 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. She is pleased to have established a website, parentingwithheartandmind.com, to share her writings, blog and practice information. 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.

Chrissie Weston Chrissie has lived in Chico for 25 years and has owned Bare Feet Creations for the past 6 years. She teaches monthly camps where kids create by baking, doing art and even sewing. She also teaches themed Summer Camps and is the Co-Executive Director of The Chico Science Fair. She has two daughters who love to create as much as she does.

Sara Tingey Gordon, M.S. Sara is a Certified Birth Doula, Childbirth Educator, and Owner of The Nest. She is passionate about supporting women and their families through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. As owner of The Nest she facilitates support and education for women and their families across the lifespan. To find out more about The Nest, please go to www.TheNestChico.com.

Julia Ferré Julia is a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Certified HypnoBirthing® practitioner, and mother of four adult children. She offers hypnotherapy sessions in private practice in Chico and around the United States. Julia birthed 3 of her 4 children at home, and brings her personal and therapeutic experience into her classroom setting. For more information, or to contact Julia, please go to www.juliaferre.com, juliaferre@yahoo.com, or call 864-5053.

Daran Goodsell Daran is the marketing, PR, and publicity coordinator for Chico Performances and the mom of two great kids. Her newest project is helping to coordinate Dance Chico! For more information about the different Chico Performances, visit www.chicoperformances.com.

Rachele Thompson Marketing Manager (530) 519-0320 rachele@growingupchico.com

Twin Cities Moms Blog Twin Cities Moms Blog (www.twincitiesmomsblog.com) is a growing resource for moms and is part of a national network, City Moms Blog Network, which helps women start and grow their own business in the form of a locally-focused collaborative blog, geared toward moms in their community.

Cover Photo By: Amy Evans Photography Amy Evans Photography is located in Chico and specializes in child and family portraiture, with an emphasis in lifestyle work. Amy is great to work with! She and her husband have four children and are enjoying raising them in the Chico area. To contact Amy or view more of her work, please go to: www.amyevansphotography.com.

On the Cover: Three sets of multiples from the Butte County Mothers of Multiples! To find more about Butte County M.O.Ms, please go to www.buttecountymoms.com.

Marne Larsen-Publisher (530) 518-6154 marne@growingupchico.com Darci Crossin-Graphic Design DeAnna Holman-Design/Editor Terry Givens-Design For Advertising Information, Contact: Rachele Thompson-Marketing Manager (530) 519-0320 rachele@growingupchico.com

Advertising Deadline: To advertise in our upcoming Summer and Summer Camp Issue, please contact us by March 31st.

Article and Photo Submission Deadline: Please submit family-friendly and seasonally appropriate photos and informative articles for the Summer Issue by March 31st.

Growing Up Chico Magazine is published quarterly and available free at around 300 family-friendly locations throughout Butte County. We are also available online at www.growingupchico.com.

Copyright Š 2015 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

26

15 23 25

School and Home

Family Time

11 Dance Chico!:

18 How to Show Support:

26 Parenting Q & A:

14 Inspire School Presents:

23 Run With The Bears:

29 Butte County M.O.M.s:

A Week Long Celebration

13 All About the Science:

Kids’ Science Projects Can Join the Science Fair!

Rodgers & Hammerstien’s, Cinderella

15 Get Writing!: 16

Butte Literacy Council’s Short Story Writing Contest For All Ages

A Brush With Discovery: Art Expression: There is Something for Everyone

Families Experiencing Loss

21 HypnoBirthing:

Pregnancy and Labor Can Be Easier!

Marathon, 1/2 and 10K

25 Spring Crafts:

Garland, Goldfish & Peeps

28

Ask A Family Therapist

28 10 Great Reasons:

Why Being a Mom of Twins is Awesome!

Celebrate Multiples Awareness Month

In Every Issue

Note Women in Business 04 Editor’s Contributors

30

GUC’s 11th Annual WIB: 23 Butte County Business Women Share Their Business Successes

14

6

Parenting

04 34 Events Calendar 38 Preschool Directory 39 Advertiser’s Directory:

12

23

10

growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

school and home

DANCE CHICO!

Dance Studio. There will be a piece by Chico Community Ballet, as well as belly dance, afro-Cuban, and Hmong traditional pieces. The Spotlight Performance will be at 7:30 in Laxson Auditorium.

On Friday, Dance Chico! will be closing down 3rd Street between Main and Broadway in Chico, and hosting a FREE Broadway Boogie.

This street fair will feature food trucks, dance instruction, and a fun evening out for all ages. The event will run from 7-9 p.m.

Dance Chico! wraps up on Saturday, March 28th, with a performance by the Joe Goode Performance Group, a modern dance troupe, performing Hush at 7:30 p.m. in Laxson Auditorium. In addition, Joe Goode will be working with the Chico State’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute on several workshops and residencies throughout the week.

When asked the reason of focusing an entire week of events on celebrating dance, Director of Chico Performances, Stephen Cummins, replied, “For me, dance is the most beautiful art form. It is important to engage students, youngsters and families in all forms of dance. Exposure to dance broadens kids’ horizons. To me, it’s a fun and interactive art form.”

It’s an interesting, basic phenomenon. Your toddler is playing in the living room and suddenly, some music comes on. The toddler stops, lifts her head, smiles, begins to wiggle, move, and, well …basically, dance. It is inherent in our natures; a deep psychological need to express ourselves through movement.

The need to express ourselves through movement gets more sophisticated as we grow. It encompasses those that tap their feet upon hearing a catchy tune- to those that decide to make dance a lifelong passion. Whether you are a professional dancer or just an occasional toe-tapper, dance is something to which all can relate.

With that in mind, Chico Performances has created a week long celebration of dance called, Dance Chico! Celebrating all kinds of movement, Dance Chico! has something for all lovers of the form of entertainment called, “dance.”

Kicking off the week: on Sunday, March 22, is Amy Seiwert’s Imagery, a contemporary ballet group out of San Francisco.

Performing in Laxson Auditorium, Seiwert’s dancers will perform an evening show, followed by a Field Trip for students on Monday, March 23.

On Tuesday, Chico’s Pageant Theatre will be presenting Bob Fosse’s iconic dance film, All That Jazz in two showings at 6 and 8:30 p.m.

On Thursday, March 26, the Spotlight Performance will be showcasing the best of the north state’s dance groups. Included will be: performances by students from Inspire School of the Arts, Kinetics Academy of Dance, Ann’s Dance Workshop, and Hype

Cummins applied for granting funds for Dance Chico! and, as a result, the event received a sizeable grant through the National Endowment of the Arts. Cummins says the NEA grant was crucial to Dance Chico! “The monetary support from the NEA will help us realize our goals to engage new dance audiences, introduce our community to world class choreographers, and celebrate the art form that is Dance.”

A Dance Chico! All Festival Pass is being offered for $40. This pass is good for one ticket to all events during the week. Individual tickets to the separate events are also available. More information, ticket prices, and a complete listing of events is available at dancechico.com.

12

growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

school and home

K-12 students from public and private schools in the Chico Unified School District can participate in the science fair. These projects demonstrate excellence in a variety of disciplines in the social, natural and physical sciences.

• • • • • •

The Chico Science Fair has been held annually since 1984.

Over 1,000 K-12 students participate each year, exhibiting approximately 500 projects.

More than 2,000 visitors are welcomed during the 2 ½ days the science projects are on display.

Hundreds of volunteers from business, academia, professional and student organizations, and the general public, commit their time, efforts and financial resources to ensure that this opportunity for science education continues.

Projects are due to be dropped off at the Fairgrounds on Monday, March 2nd. On Tuesday, March 3rd, the fair is closed for judging.

The fair is open to the public March 4th and 5th, with an awards ceremony on Thursday evening. Projects can be taken home that night, or picked up by noon on Friday.

WHY DO A SCIENCE FAIR PROJECT?

A science fair project can give students their first chance to design their learning experience, allowing them to innovate, just as scientists do in the real world. They can explore personal interests and practice scientific inquiry. In addition, students can develop skills above and beyond science proficiency, such as: 1. Reading Comprehension and Writing: Doing background research and writing a research paper 2. Math: Creating graphs and performing data analysis 3. Time Management: Planning a multi-step project 4. Communication: Presenting and explaining the science fair project 5. Ethics Understanding: Learning about plagiarism and the importance of credit and citations Science fair project planning is very straightforward. A student chooses a scientific question to address and researches the subject. A hypothesis is formulated and the experiment is designed. Next, the student performs the experiment, analyzes the data gathered, draws his or her conclusions, writes and presents the results using a display board.

A science fair project requires a student to learn to plan over two or three months, a skill of immense importance in adulthood. Students learn communications skills, the importance of selecting topics, and fine tuning their presentations, while doing projects. A science fair project may even provide an opportunity for the discussion of ethical issues, such as use of human or animal subjects.

Do you have questions? Contact Chrissie Weston, Chico Science Fair Executive Director at: Creationsbarefeet@gmail.com.

Dinner with a Scientist: September 11, 2015, at Sierra Nevada’s Big Room!

Don’t miss your chance to have dinner with a scientist of your choosing right at your table! This family friendly, fun and informative event is our biggest fundraiser and helps ensure The Chico Science Fair’s future.

Guest speaker will be announced at a later date. *Some of the above was modified and quoted from articles on www.sciencebuddies.org.

The Chico Science Fair Foundation a 501©(3) nonprofit affiliated with North Valley Community Foundation.

We always welcome donations: PO Box 6832, Chico, CA 95927.

THE CHICO SCIENCE FAIR

MARCH 2 – MARCH 6, 2015 Silver Dollar Fairgrounds

school and home

Inspire School of Arts & Sciences presents,

The Magic behind the Show

14

growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

Article by: Alex Hilsee, student dramaturge and scenic artist, & Lucy Sandoe, student director

F

ive years ago, a new high school was opened in Chico: Inspire School of Arts and Sciences – a school, whose name would, in a short while, become one of outstanding renown and stature throughout our community through its spellbinding theatrics. Inspire has set a standard, not only for community high school shows, but for full-scale productions at the pre-professional level. Starting with one musical, The Wizard of Oz their first year, Inspire has staged: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Brigadoon, You Can’t Take It with You, Chicago, As You Like It, & White Christmas in succeeding years, as well as a plethora of showcases highlighting each of their other artistic departments. And the magic behind all of this? Each and every one of their near sixty productions has been student driven through acting, producing, designing, performing, crewing, and advertising. These talented students are guided and mentored by professional adult guest artists and the passionate teachers of Inspire.

One of these inspiring adults is dance and technical theatre instructor, Jarrah Myles, and director of Inspire’s outstanding musical productions. After the school’s recent triumph with their post-apocalyptic staging of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, all have been waiting in anticipation for the musical, which Myles had announced auditions for at the end of the prior show’s run: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA! At a young age, Myles became enchanted with the charming tale of Cinderella, particularly in the form of Hilary Knight’s illustrated children’s book, so much so, that her entire vision of the production has been fueled by these whimsical pictures, as well as by court life in Restoration era France. “The script serves as a basic outline, which allows for a lot of creative freedom and interpretation,” Myles stated. “The students will be researching and exploring 1830s France; this will serve as a stepping off point for designs and character development for a show intended for children of all ages.”

Due to these many possible creative liberties, the sheer magnitude of this production cannot go overstated.

The ambition of the director, music instructors, and students goes unparalleled. In the first cast rehearsal, faces were aglow in enthusiasm. “We began with a dramaturge presentation that would inform and inspire everyone involved with the world of the play we are creating,”

stated Myles. The success of Inspire’s shows are never taken for granted, and the dedication of every member is clear from the start.

Professionalism is of the essence in the theatrical industry, and there is no shortage of understanding of that from all members of the cast and crew.

The maturity of the students is magnified by the true sense of community that is built and reinforced by these young artists.

“It’s going to be a family,” says Maddy Copper, Stepmother in the upcoming production, as she comments on what she looks forward to most. The theatre world takes a collaboration of minds and talents to bring a story alive to an audience filled of the curious. “The whole school is pulling together to create this magical show,” says student Stage Manager, Pepper Saint Clair. “We have also cast the children of the Inspire staff members to add a new dimension – working with a cast of all ages.” The production features not only the magic of a talented and one of a kind cast, but also the clear dedication of a student production and design team: designing, constructing, sewing, researching, and painting every inch of the show’s costumes, hair and makeup, elaborate front of house, props, lights, sounds, and set!

“I’m just happy to help create the magic,” comments Ashbrooke Hinkle, student Head Costumer. And magic there shall be!

Over one hundred students are involved in the production, ranging from playing violin, selling fancy fans in the front of house, to flipping on stage; even the jugglers do their bit! Each of these dedicated adolescents has made the commitment of working long hours after school during the quick, seven week intensive rehearsal process. The cast and crew of the show are all working together to help bring each other up exponentially, and through this practice of respect, the show will truly pull together and cement an already glimmering production.

Inspire will be doing six presentations of the show over two weekends and two fieldtrip performances just for children. Inspire’s production of Rodgers & Hammerstien’s, Cinderella, will open 2/27 at 7PM, with additional performances: 2/28, 3/5, 3/6, & 3/7 at 7PM with a matinee 3/8 at 2PM. For more information and tickets, visit the Inspire website www.inspirecusd.org, call the office, (530) 891-3090, or join us on Facebook – Inspire Happenings: CinderellaAtInspire.

Short Story Contest G

et your creative juices flowing! Butte Literacy Council is accepting entries for their annual Short Story Contest!

Kids! Teens! Adults! Writers of all ages, help Butte Literacy Council celebrate the writing talent in Butte County by sending your short stories to our annual Short Story contest...and maybe win a prize! Your story will be judged by our board members and a First Place and Honorable Mention in each category will be awarded. Entries must be postmarked by Monday, March 16th, 2015 (Late stories will not be considered). Winners will have the opportunity to read their story

on awards night April 10, 6:30 p.m. at Barnes & Nobel in Chico. Entrants must be Butte County residents. Each entry must include a cover sheet with the grade category in which the entry is to be judged, the entrant’s name, address, daytime telephone number and a brief bio of the entrant; i.e., school, interests, etc.

Although published writers are not excluded, only those entries previously unpublished will be considered for competition. Age categories are: K-1st, 2nd-3rd, 4th-5th, 6th-7th, 8th-9th, 10-12th and Adult. First place honorees of the best stories in each grade level category will receive as follows: K-7th grade, a $25 gift certificate to Barnes & Noble and 8th grade-

Adult, a $75 check. For additional guidelines, please visit, www.butteliteracycouncil.org.

The Butte Literacy Council is a non-profit, non-government, all-volunteer organization, established in 1989. The group meets once a month to coordinate their annual projects which include: Books for Babies, For the Love of Reading, Butte County Short Story Contest, and Juvenile Hall Library and Christmas Book Gifting. We also maintain the Butte County Literacy Resources page on our website. We are funded solely by donations and are grateful to our community supporters who enable us to continue our efforts.

school and home www.growingupchico.com growing up chico magazine 16

A Brush with Discovery

O

On a quiet bend in the road overlooking, the Lindo Channel and the bustle of Mangrove Ave, is an unassuming mid-century building where artists rediscover the joy in creating. These artists range from 5 years old to 80 something. Some barely recall the last time they picked up a brush, but they all have one thing in common: when they walk through the doors of The Studio 561, they remember how good it feels to paint!

“I wanted a place where artists and people, who want to create, could mingle and share the love of discovery that comes with making art. It is not about art being for the select talented few; it is about enjoying, as you learn, where your own talent lies.”

Christine Mac Shane has painted most of her life and a good many of those years here in Butte County. She has left her mark in homes and businesses with murals and decorative finishes for the past 20 years. Lately, she finished a successful run with local CBS and NBC affiliates as “The House Whisperer” and a year creating the PBS series, “Within Your Reach” with business partner and friend, Trisha Coder. The studio brings all of these together in a welcoming and relaxed way. Whether it is painting or reconstructing old furnishings, there is help at hand and a sense of accomplishment with every swish of the brush.

The Studio 561 (located on East Lindo Ave in Chico) is a working studio that offers plenty of space for classes, workshops and parties. Customers are encouraged to “drop in” and work on pieces in progress. Children’s parties and workshops, as well as group activities for Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and Charity Leagues, are well under way. “It’s really a versatile place that lends itself to just about any creative venture or event.” Says Mac Shane, as she sets up easels for a paint party later that evening. “I do go to homes and other locations to do the paint parties, but we have a great set-up here with a kitchen and all! It’s perfect; you don’t even have to clean up!”

Christine works with groups for fund-raising and charities, as well as private parties. The workshops range from furniture painting and faux-finishes, to intuitive painting. School vacation art camps are in the works, as well as Mom and Dad date night paint parties.

Paradise artist, Ellen Beauregard, introduces tools and tricks to textured paintings and works with Christine on the re-purposed furniture art available for sale at The Studio.

Oroville artist, Julee Spohn, offers Saltillo tile painting classes every other Thursday afternoon. Her whimsical and colorful style makes this a great way to get acquainted with

acrylic paint on surfaces other than canvas. “We offer art classes for children and have noticed the trend is not necessarily for weekly classes. So, like everything we do, we watch and move with what is needed.�

If you are interested in finding out more about classes, workshops and parties offered at The Studio 561, or to set up a party of your own, it is well worth dropping by to get a feel for the space. Postings keep potential artists up to date with events through Christine Mac Shane on Facebook, as well as the websites: www.thestudio561.com and www. christinemacshane.com.

Reservations and inquiries are made by emailing Christine at christinemacshane@gmail.com or by calling (530) 370-1285.

family time www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

Supporting Families Through Loss

By Sara Tingey Gordon, MS Owner of The Nest, Chico

Anyone who has attended the birth of a baby has witnessed the magic and joy a family experiences when they welcome their newborn into the world. Regardless of how the birth unfolds, there is almost always an overwhelming element of hope in the experience.

For the overwhelming majority of births, this is the case, but sadly there are times the birth of a baby is not the beginning of a lifetime of memories, but the end of a dream. The women and families experiencing this loss have a significant need for support. Many of us recognize this need, but struggle with how to provide it. While none of us can change a tragic outcome, there are many ways for friends and family to extend support, compassion, and love to those who are suffering a pregnancy loss or stillbirth.

While the majority of pregnancies result in a happy, healthy baby, at least 10% will end in miscarriage (loss before 20 weeks gestation) and about 1 in 160 births will end in a stillbirth (loss after 20 weeks gestation). A woman will experience her loss differently, depending on many factors including: her initial feelings about the pregnancy, how attached she had become to her unborn baby, the cause of death (if known), religious or cultural beliefs and more. Knowing what parents need during this time can help us to care for them in ways that encourage healing.

growing chico magazine 1818 18 growing upupchico growing up magazine chico magazine

Parents grieve in many ways, so it is important to pay attention, listen, and follow their lead. By acknowledging that our only job is to be a comforting presence, it allows us to be with them in their grief without trying to change it. Letting parents know that we are willing to listen if they need to talk, can be as comforting as simply sitting with them in their quite moments.

While medical care providers and trained counselors offer a variety of necessary services, it is the friends and family members that will have the most contact and opportunity to support women experiencing a loss.

Many of us struggle with how to support those experiencing deep grief and pain. We worry about saying or doing the wrong thing. It is true that nothing we can say or do will change this tragic outcome for parents, but there are many ways in which we can offer the love and support that will sustain them through their experience.

Here are some helpful tips for offering healing support: Things That Help • Listen and be comfortable with sitting in silence with them.

It is ok to cry with them.

• Talk about their baby if they want to and use his/her name.

• Hear their stories, feelings, and experiences without passing judgment or offering advice.

• Ask about a memorial a service and attend if invited.

• Offer help with siblings or other family members.

• Remember and connect with them on special days (holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, etc).

Things to Avoid • Please do not offer platitudes and clichés or explanations.

These may seem true to you, but they are not helpful to a grieving parent.

• Do not avoid the parents because you don’t know what to say or do. Simply sharing that we don’t know what to say, but are “here” for them is enough.

• Do not change the subject when they talk about their loss. Be willing to listen as much as they need to share.

• Do not criticize the care they received or how they handled their situation.

Things You Can Say • I’m sorry.

• I am here for you.

• I am willing to listen.

• Do you want to talk?

• What can I do for you?

Resources for Parents, Friends, & Family Members www.stillbirthday.com- This is a website providing extensive information for pregnancy loss and stillbirth. Information and support is provided for women experiencing loss, as well as for friends and family members.

Forever Loved (Enloe Hospital)Provides support for anyone who has experienced miscarriage, stillbirth or newborn loss. (530) 332-7610.

www.nowilaymedowntosleep.orgThis is an organization that provides free professional remembrance photography to parents suffering the loss of a baby.

growing chico magazine 2020 20 growing upupchico growing up magazine chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

family time

HypnoBirthing

®

Combining Birthing with Hypnosis

By Julia Ferré

P

regnancy is a big deal! For most women, it happens only once or a few times in their lives. In the modern age, birthing is often seen as a difficult event; however, in many cultures, birthing is viewed as the natural and simple event that begins a life. In fact, over eons of time, the standard is that mothers have been able to have gentle, calm births because under normal conditions, birth is uncomplicated and low risk.

HypnoBirthing® offers a way to make birth the best it can be. HypnoBirthing® combines hypnosis with education and prepares a mom to birth with ease.

Many women and couples are declaring that they want births where they can be comfortable rather than tense, births where they can be aware rather than be sedated, and births where they can be involved rather than be afraid. Even Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, is reported to have used HypnoBirthing® for the birth of her first son.

Hypnobirthing® teaches how to embrace the wonder and beauty of pregnancy and birthing while at the same time, reducing the anxiety and stress. Over the course of five weekly classes, mom-to-be and her partner learn the basic tenets of childbirth without fear. These include: relaxing the body, breathing techniques for the different stages of birthing, and hypnosis to increase wellbeing. During class and at home, the couple practices exercises to relax the mother, bond with the baby, and advocate for the desired birth. In the process, they strengthen their trust in this natural event and anticipate the birthing day.

Fear is the biggest contributor to stressful childbirth. Fear creates tension, and tension creates tightness in the body. Tightness instigates pain. In HypnoBirthing®, a woman learns to do self-hypnosis in order to free the body

from fear, and thus reduce excessive pain. Noelle Swonsen had such a birth.

She stated, “I got a tattoo recently and it was more painful than labor! Birthing was easy thanks to Hypnobirthing®.”

HypnoBirthing (HB) has been around for about 30 years, and statistics support HB’s benefits. Only 9% of HB moms have episiotomies, compared to 22% of non-HB moms. 20% of HB moms have epidurals, compared to 70% non-HB moms. Babies fare better, too. 83% of HB moms report that the baby is an easy baby, compared to 60% non-HB moms. 1 Hypnosis works for other issues, too. As a hypnotherapist, I have helped people quit smoking, mourn losses of loved ones, resolve childhood traumas, and figure out direction in life. With HB, there is a chance for families to begin their child’s life in peace and tranquility.

Kristin Miranda said, “My baby’s birth was wonderful. I was confident and free of fear.” Practitioners agree, “HypnoBirthing® has changed the way I practice obstetrics,” according to Dr. Jeffrey Segil. Alicia Watson says, “My baby’s birth was the most amazing experience. I love this program and am deeply led to teach it.”

Every woman deserves a safe and satisfying birth. Every baby deserves a welcome into life. Hypnobirthing® can be a valuable resource to help families embrace this once-in-a lifetime celebration!

Julia Ferré is a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Certified HypnoBirthing® practitioner, and mother of four adult children. She offers hypnotherapy sessions in private practice in Chico, California and around the United States.

Julia birthed 3 of her 4 children at home, and brings her personal and therapeutic experience into her classroom setting. www.juliaferre.com juliaferre@yahoo.com 530-864-5053 For more information on HypnoBirthing®, see: http:// hypnobirthing.com/.

1 HypnoBirthing Outcomes, U.S. 2005 to 2010. www.aucklandhypnobirthing.co.nz

growingup upchico chicomagazine magazine 2222 growing

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

family time

Running with the Bears Marathon, Half, and 10K

E

www.RunningWithTheBears.Org

ntering its fifth year, The Running with the Bears Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K Race in Greenville, CA (1.5 hours NE of Chico) is set to raise nearly $50,000 for children and youth in foster care. In 2012, this race became a Boston Marathon qualifier and has since attracted runners from all over the world in their quest to qualify for the Boston Marathon cutoff by early September.

“What makes this event so unique,” says Race Director Josie Litchfield, “Is that it is managed entirely by the Charity it benefits, Mountain Circle Family Services. As runners complete the course, they get to meet the same foster families and teens that their entry fee supports. In a small race, you can see how running can make a direct impact on these kids’ lives; it’s powerful.”

Running with the Bears also offers a division for ‘Charity Runners.’ These are participants who agree to fund-raise a minimum

musicians playing various types of music. Motivational signs every mile are mixed in with signs that feature interesting facts about bears.

The 2013 winner, Chuck Engle, was the first participant to actually run into a bear- which occurred at about mile 23. As promised by Race Directors, the black bear was indeed more afraid of him and promptly ran in the other direction. “We get a lot of phone calls from people genuinely concerned about the bears,” said the race organizers, “so we provide bear bells in all goody bags. The truth, though, is that only about 200 people live along the course. Race Day is the biggest event these bears have ever seen and they head for the hills!”

At the finish line, Runners are handed a cold beer and treated to a free massage. A giant polar bear ice plunge is available, as is shopping at a pop-up running store, visiting the gold panning exhibit and exploring the hay bale maze. It’s understandable why the race organizers’ motto is, “We don’t race by the same rules.”

of $500 for the cause. The perks of this program include: free registration for the runner, a goody bag filled with gourmet items and specialty running apparel, and the knowledge that their running is making a difference for some of the 58,000 children in foster care in California. Last year, a short film was produced about the Charity Runner program which can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/ my_videos?o=U. Recently, Running with the Bears attracted national attention, becoming a featured race in both Marathon and Beyond, and Competitor Magazines. These magazines are two of the most read runner magazines in the country and normally feature much larger events. Running with the Bears is one of the smallest marathons in the country with only 500 competitors (and less than 100 in the marathon division).

“Most of the news coverage for races focuses on big city events,” said Ms. Litchfield, “So it’s a real honor to be recognized by national magazines. In a lot of ways though, Indian Valley sells itself. Who wouldn’t want to run here?”

The event attracts people from all over with its unique take on the traditional marathon. Runners are not only treated to the beautiful surroundings of Indian Valley, but are greeted along the course by

“Logistically, this is a pretty tough race to put on,” continued Litchfield. “There’s definitely a reason you don’t find Boston Qualifiers in small rural towns, but I think that’s what makes it so unique. We built the type of race that we’d want to run in ourselves; where our kids can also have a good time, where we can run alongside our dogs, and where there’s a great view at the finish line.”

The race is put on by Mountain Circle Family Services, Inc., and proceeds provide the means for 30 foster teens to participate in the PowderQuest Program; an outdoor leadership program for older foster youth. This event also provides resources to other programs such as: foster parent training, camp tuition, and new school clothes for foster children. Last year, Running with the Bears raised over $25,000 and this year, they hope to double that.

The event is set to take place August 15th, 2015. Those interested in competing or volunteering, can get more information at www.runningwiththebears.org.

growing up up chico chico magazine magazine 2424 growing

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

family time

Simple Valentine Garland This is a very simple, yet adorable craft for kids of all ages to make! (These are even more fun to make while sipping Shirley Temples, as pictured).

Spring Crafts

By Chrissie Weston, Owner of Bare Feet Creations

What You Need: • •

• • •

• •

Spoon (Find at thrift shops) ¼-½ yard of festive burlap (I used red in the photo. 1/2 yard will make LOTS of banners like the one pictured). ¼-½ yard pink felt (you can use white, red, or really any color you want) Yarn for stringing Aleene’s Fast Grab Tacky Glue (I like applying it with a tooth pick or wooden skewer, as it can be hard to squeeze out of the bottle).

Scissors Large plastic needle for threading the squares on the yarn (optional)

What To Do:

Cut pieces of burlap into four inch squares.

Cut squares of felt into three inch squares.

Cut hearts out of the felt. Apply Aleene’s glue to the back of each heart with a tooth pick and then place onto the burlap background. Cut two vertical slits in the top corners of the burlap so that the yarn can thread through. Make these darling banners any length you want!

Homemade Peeps!

In my six years of teaching, this is- hands down- the kids’ most favorite activity. I think it is necessary to have a Kitchen Aide Stand Mixer to make the recipe. Make the marshmallow a day or two ahead so it has time to set and cover with plastic wrap (not letting the plastic wrap touch the marshmallow). This involves boiling sugar, so it is a good idea to make ahead, before younger children get involved, to avoid possible burns.

What You Need: • • • • • •

Vegetable Cooking Spray 1T powdered sugar 2 envelopes gelatin, soaked in 2/3 cup cold water ½C water at room temperature 2C sugar ½t vanilla

Lic #045405857

St. Patty’s Day Goldfish Crackers I have made these AMAZING, homemade goldfish crackers every year with students.

In March, we like to make these and dye the dough green for a festive treat! They are so easy to make. Try them!

• • • • • • •

What You Need:

1C all-purpose flour 4T cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 8oz white cheddar cheese (I recommend Tillamook) 1/2t salt 1/2t fresh-ground pepper A fish cookie cutter, but any shape will do (Maybe a Shamrock?).

A few drops of green food coloring

What To Do: Pulse the flour, butter, cheese, a few drops of green food coloring, salt, and pepper together, using a food processor until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Pulse in 3 to 4 tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, and only enough so that the dough forms a ball and rides the blade. Remove, wrap in plastic, and chill for 20 minutes or up to 24 hours. Spray baking sheets with nonstick spray. Roll the dough out to 1/8-inch balls Cut into shapes. Place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking pans. Bake at 350•F until golden and crisp - 15 to 20 minutes. *Note, you can make these crackers with Tillamook Cheddar Cheese and no food coloring year round for that traditional goldfish cracker look.

What To Do: Put gelatin in Kitchen Aide mixer bowl, pour cold 2/3 cup water over and let soften while you work. Spray a 9” x 13” pan with vegetable cooking spray and coat with powdered sugar. Over medium high heat, melt sugar and ½ cup water together. Cook until it boils and reaches 238•F (This takes quite a while, use a candy thermometer and be careful not to get granulated sugar on the sides of the pan. If you do, use a pastry brush with water to wash down the sides of the bowl). Pour hot mixture over gelatin and stir with mixer on slow. When incorporated, whip mixture on medium high for 8-10 minutes or until soft peaks have formed, add vanilla and mix again until blended. Pour into the prepared pan (sprayed with cooking spray, then dusted with powdered sugar) and let sit at least an hour before cutting out shapes with a cookie cutter. Dust in finishing colored sugars.

Thank you Bare Feet Creations (Day “Camps”) for these easy, cute and fun holiday crafts that our readers can do with their kids!

About Bare Feet Creations: Rather than Day Care, Bare Feet Creations has kids come for enriching two hour “camps.” Each camp is limited to only 8 children. Chrissie teaches kids art, crafts, sewing and baking during her monthly camps September-May. Summer camps are offered during JuneAugust. Visit “Bare Feet Creations” Face Book page or email Chrissie at creationsbarefeet@gmail.com to learn more and sign up.

Terry J. Basile, Marriage and Family Therapist

26

growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

parenting

Ask Your Family Therapist Happy Spring and welcome to the parenting 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 reluctant 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. My answers are based on my experience as a mother and my work for over 35 years as a therapist for children and families. Please send your questions to: info@growingupchico.com and the most interesting question received will win a copy of my book, Let’s Color Your Feelings! Remember, we keep your name and personal information confidential. I also want to let you know that I am excited to introduce my new website, parentingwithheartandmind.com, that provides parenting information, blogs and more details on my book. I hope that you will find it enjoyable and useful to your family.

Q

A & Q Q A As a couple, it has been hard to manage visits with family in two distant towns. We are about to have a baby and are worried about how to manage our time visiting. How do we do this so no one feels left out?

This is a point of conflict for many families, so you are wise to be considering this in advance. I would first suggest that you pick a period of time that you will be staying in town with a new baby, one to three months are usual. So that takes the need to manage visits until you are more rested and confident as a parent. Limit visitors during that time and most visitors need to stay at a local motel. You can help by checking out a few online and making suggestions. Those first months are important bonding time as a new family, so protect it. Once you are comfortable, go ahead and visit everyone. Then talk about how you want to manage visits in the future.

Maybe you will want to have alternate holidays with each side of the family, or chose a summer vacation everyone can participate in. Many a grandparent has learned to Skype to be able to see their grandchild more often. Include them in the discussion, but you are the ones to make the final decision. This may be a new role for both of you and a bit uncomfortable at first. This is your family now and you get to decide how you want to manage it. Just be sensitive to how special your child will be to family and make each visit as positive as possible.

How do I prepare my daughter, who has been an only child for 5 years, for the upcoming birth of her baby brother?

A

If you watch YouTube, you can see the shocked faces of children who are just getting the information that they are going to have a new sibling. Some are happy and some are hysterical at the idea of any change in the family. Some of the response is going to depend on the personality and needs of the child.

Of course, small children will not really understand what this means, but once children go to school, they see how siblings are part of most families.

Here are some ideas: • Not all children like surprises. For them I suggest you start by pointing out other children’s siblings and talking about what are the good and challenging parts of being a big sister.

• Role play with your child: her being a mommy and you being the big sister. Use a special doll or even a sack of flour like teen’s do in parenting classes. You can act out what your child might be feeling by saying something like, “ I don’t want to share” and then talking later about how you felt as the big sister and brainstorm about how to help you (and her) when that happens.

• Make the announcement special, but not too dramatic. Involve her in preparations as much as possible.

• Have a play date with another parent who has two children. Use that to make some observations and start the discussion.

• Make sure to begin to have special time, one on one, with her. Plan how you will continue those “dates” after the baby is born.

• Let her know that “sharing” is part of her being a big sister. She will have to share her parents with her baby brother, but you will also share the baby with her. Set up the baby as not a loss for her, but a gain for the family. Be supportive as she makes a very big adjustment in her very small world.

parenting www.growingupchico.com growing up chico magazine 28

10 Reasons Why Being a Mom of Twins is Awesome

I

was never one of those people who hoped I would have twins.

When I had my first baby, I had a friend who had twins around the same time and I remember thinking, “Better her than me.” One newborn was enough work. I was perfectly content popping one baby out at a time.

Fast forward to my second pregnancy.

I went in for my 20 week ultrasound and after looking around a bit, the first words to come out of the ultrasound technician’s mouth were, “So, did you know you’re having twins?” No. No we did not. We simply thought we were going to find out if we were having a boy or girl that day. Instead, we found out that we were halfway through a twin pregnancy.

The moment I became a twin mom, my life changed forever…in the best possible way.

Don’t get me wrong; The first year was HARD. Harder than anything I have done in my life. I was in pure survival mode. If you know a twin mom, I am sure you have felt her desire for you to know and understand just how difficult it is. It is true; we kind of want you to recognize that having twins is no walk in the park. However, we also want you to know that being a twin mom is one of the best things that can happen to a person. Don’t pity us too much because while it’s obviously double the work, we are also having double the fun.

The list can go on and on, but I am only listing 10 great things about being a twin mom. The next time you see a “twin mom,” tell her how lucky she is. One of our favorite things is when other people acknowledge the double blessing it is to be a mom of multiples!

By Amber Kuiper

IO

10 Reasons Why Being a Twin Mom Is Awesome:

I

ONE pregnancy. We might have been HUGE and uncomfortable, but we only had to go through one labor and delivery, one recovery, one sleep deprived newborn stage, and we got TWO babies!

2

Extra daddy bonding. While many dads of singletons were sleeping during middle of the night feedings, our men were in the rocking chair next to us, and are now totally empathetic when they hear us say “I’m exhausted.”

3

Celebrity status. It’s a bit of a thrill being a twin mom when we venture out in public.

We’re almost always stopped and get lots of questions and attention from strangers.

And while we might get tired of a million people a day telling us we have our hands full, we also know that means our hearts are, too.

4

We don’t judge. We’ve likely found ourselves in every embarrassing new mom circumstance, which may or may not include pumping in the car while going through the Starbucks drive-thru with screaming babies. So, when we see a mom of a singleton doing really anything that other moms might sneer at, we are gonna give you a high five and hand you a ‘Bux gift card.

5

We view milestones as estimations. It’s fascinating to watch two babies grow at the same time. Even identical twins, who are genetically the same, develop at different rates.

Instead of comparing them, we notice that each has been gifted in different ways. We are not stressed if they hit milestones exactly on time or not, we celebrate their uniqueness.

6

Built in besties. There is nothing sweeter than watching two babies giggle back and forth, communicate in their own language, chase each other around the kitchen, or play peek-a-boo together. Honestly, after they learn to sit up, a twin mom’s job becomes more of an observer than an entertainer!

7

More time at Target. When you are a mom of multiples, shopping has to be about convenience. Thankfully, Target knows this and has blessed us with the mega cart, making it one of the few places a twin mom can easily take her crew. Target runs being totally justified? Hallelujah.

8

Sharing is caring. Twins have to share everything. We don’t have to work as hard teaching them to share and take turns because they have been doing it since birth!

They learn from a young age that life is not about them, and it’s so sweet to see the compassion they have for one another, even if it does come in the form of sounding like crying fire sirens.

9 I0

Matching and coordinating. Before twins, I never thought I would be one of those moms who had the matchy-matchy twins. But, it must be one of those twin mom phenomena. It’s just SO MUCH FUN. Double the love. Our hearts explode and our love multiplies constantly. Seeing two smiling babies pop up after nap time, ready to snuggle with mommy, is enough to convince us that we would go through every difficult moment again in a heartbeat.

Find this article and many more articles, at the Twin Cities Moms Blog (www.twincitiesmomsblog.com). This resource for moms is part of a national network, City Moms Blog Network, which helps women start and grow their own businesses in the form of a locally-focused collaborative blog, geared toward moms in their community. www.facebook.com/TwinCitiesMomsBlog.

Butte County Mothers of Multiples Butte County Mothers of Multiples club is a member run, non-profit organization which was established in 2006 as a way to connect mothers of multiples (twins, triplets or more) for the purpose of support and friendship. We provide educational, social, and emotional support and guidance to meet the special challenge of parenting two or more children born together.

Whether you are pregnant, a parent of infants, toddlers or school age multiples, there is something here for you. This is a place where mothers can meet and help each other by discussing the joys and struggles of raising multiples. With your paid membership dues to Butte County Mothers of Multiples, members will also be included in both the National Organization and Northern California Association of Mothers of Twins Clubs.

Along with the membership, members get: • Monthly Social Events • After Birth Meal Delivery • Monthly Newsletters • Membership to the National and State Mothers of Twins Clubs, Inc. • Play Groups and Field Trips • Mom’s Night Out Activities • Family Outings • Club Resource Library • Message Board • Clothing and Equipment Sales • Kids Events • Friendship and Support

April is For more information, please visit National www.buttecountymoms.com Multiple Birth Awareness Month! Multiple Birth Facts For 2012

Number of twin births: 131,269 Number of triplet births: 4,598 Number of quadruplet births: 276 Number of quintuplets and other higher order births: 45 Twin birth rate: 33.1 per 1,000 live births Triplet or higher order birth rate: 124.4 per 100,000 live births (Source: CDC, www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/multiple.htm)

30

growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

women in business

Women in Business

32

growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

women in business

events eventscalendar calendar

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.

MOPS Chico: MOPS

Check out all of the great things we have to look forward to this Spring! 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. Visit the many hands

on exhibits for kids and families of all ages. See ad in this issue for more information on current exhibits. Open Wed. through Sun. noon to 5pm. For more information, call 898-4121 or visit www.csuchico.edu/gateway.

Chico Certified Farmers’ Market-Saturdays:

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

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

Chico Museum:

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.

Fantastic Fridays:

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.

Thursday Night Farmer’s Market: Explore Downtown Chico’s Thursday Night Market weekly, April through September from 6-9pm. Farm-fresh produce, delicious food, arts and crafts, and live entertainment! www.downtownchico.com.

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.

Chapman Food And Fitness Festival: Held every Friday from 2–5:30pm at 1010 Cleveland Ave. 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.

Chico Air Museum: 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, 345-6468.

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, Saturdays at 10am. Must

34 38 34

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

pre register at: www.lowesbuildandgrow.com or call for more info.

Butte County Library:

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, FREE after school tutoring 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

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.

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

La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Group: La Leche League offers free mother-to mother support for breastfeeding. Babies and young children are always welcome at meetings. Meetings are held throughout the month. Please refer to the LLL of Chico Facebook page, call 487-4109 or email lllofchico@gmail.com for details and times.

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.

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.

Enloe’s Mother and Baby Education Center: Ongoing before baby classes,

after baby classes, as well as safety classes. Please call 332-3970 to register or go to www.enloe.org and click on Mother and Baby Care Center for more information and to view a full list of classes.

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 EV Free Church for more information: 343-6022.

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 Grass-Fed Meats. For up to date info, “like us” on Facebook, visit bookfamilyfarm.net, or contact bookfamilyfarm@gmail.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.

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

Museum of Northern California Art (MONCA): 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:

Free Prenatal Workshops first Thursday of each month from 7-8pm and third Sunday of each month from 2-4 pm. Clients and potential clients can come to as many workshops as they choose. During our meetings, we welcome new families, attend to established clients, and present experiential learning opportunities on a variety of topics related to pregnancy, birth & breastfeeding. For more information visit www.chicodoulacircle.com.

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 the 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 patrickranchmuseum.org or call 342-4359. The cost is $5.00 per person/ 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. For more info and a complete listing of classes, go to www. theNestChico.com.

Breastfeeding Essentials:

First Tuesday of every month 6:30-8:30 pm. This is an ongoing series taught by Debbie Pierce, RN IBCLC. Each month will address a different aspect of breastfeeding. Come once to get help establishing breastfeeding or come monthly for a comprehensive understanding of the many aspects of lactation.

Topics include: Feb 3-Breastfeeding for Working Moms, Mar 3-Extended Breastfeeding & Weaning, $20 per class. www.theNestChico.com.

Motherhood 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 we will invite a guest speaker from our community to share their wisdom. This group meets at noon so working moms are welcome to attend with or without their babies (and yes, you can bring your lunch!) Held on Mondays from 12:30-2 pm, please go to www.theNestChico.com for more info.

Butte Parent Cafe’ Friday, February 6th

Parent Cafes are free public events that allow parents in Butte County to have meaningful, guided conversations to solve problems that may affect their children.

Dinner and child care are provided at NO COST! Parents, Foster Parents, Grandparents, Providers, and anyone in the community who is interested in strengthening their family is encouraged to attend. 6-8pm at Chico Junior High.

Honey Bee Mine, Celebration of Valentines at Patrick Ranch Saturday, February 7th

FREE! 11-1pm. Families can make bee valentines while seeing the vintage bee exhibition. Take a tour of the ranch. Visit the Glenwood farm house and the gift store.

For more information call Patrick Ranch Museum at 343-4359.

Wet Felting Class at Patrick Ranch Museum Saturday, February 7th

Make felt out of wool, 9-12pm. Must register by calling ranch at 342-4359.

Forensics and Physical Anthropology Lecture Sunday February 8th

Dr. Colleen Milligan will explore her current research in Physical Anthropology. Talks are free and open to the public and are sponsored by the Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology, held at the Chico Women’s Club. For more information contact 898-5397.

Bird Beaks in Bidwell Preschool Program Thursday, February 12th

Come learn about the different beaks of the birds of Bidwell Park. Meet one of The Center’s resident birds, do interactive activities and make a craft! Perfect for children ages 3-5 and an adult companion. $12 per child includes one adult. Please register online at: www.bidwellpark.org.

New Mothers Circle: Is motherhood different than you expected? Do you find yourself thinking, “No one ever told me...” or “If only I had known...”? This group is a safe place where you can come and talk about ALL the realities of motherhood, struggles and challenges, as well as joys, and get the support you need. Learn about local resources available for addressing the challenges you may have and meet other moms who can share your experience. Located at The Nest, held weekly on Thursdays, 10-11 am, www.theNestChico.com.

Celebrate the Wonders of the World with Valene Friday, February 13th

Cesarean Recovery and VBAC Support Circle: Every Third Wednesday from 10-11 am. This is a mom led group designed to support women who have had elective and unplanned cesareans, as well as those attempting VBAC (vaginal birth after c-section). This group does NOT offer medical advice, rather it is designed to give moms a safe space to share and process their experiences, share tips for recovering from surgery, and support one another in their future birthing choices.

Please go to www.theNestChico.com for more info.

Teenage Brick Turtles Camp Friday, February 13th

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.

Dr. Valene Smith will sign her new book in celebration of her 89th birthday. Valene has had an amazing life of travel around the globe. In this autobiographical account, she shares many of these incredible journeys for a new audience. Sneak preview of children’s art exhibition on primate habitats. For more information contact 898-5397.

Grab your katanas and nunchucks as we prepare to fight crime with Teenage Brick Turtles! After a treacherous day of crime-fighting, don’t forget to give the turtles a break to enjoy a pizza down in their sewer dwelling under the city. Let’s build and play...Brick Turtle style! 9:00-Noon-Open Play until 5:00pm. www.bricks4kidz.com/california-chico.

Camp Chico Love Friday, February 13th and Monday February 16th

The Studio:

We would love to see you for Camp Chico Love. Come for the full day or half day. Extended care at no extra charge. Hands on natural science labs, Games, Art & Recreation, Up close animal visits, Bidwell park exploration and curriculum from: Growing Up Wild.

Camp is for children 5-11yr olds. Register online at: www.bidwellpark.org.

Bricks 4 Kids:

Family Day at Museum Saturday, February 14th

Children’s painting classes, mixed media, family painting parties, birthday paint parties, and summer camps. Also offers adult classes and painting parties. By local artist, Christine Mac Shane, 370-1285, 561 East Lindo Avenue.

Our programs provide an extraordinary atmosphere for students to build unique creations, play games, and have loads of fun using LEGO® bricks.

The activities are designed to trigger young children’s lively imaginations and build their self-confidence. After school programs, birthday parties, camps, playgroups, Kidz night out, scouting, open play and drop off for ages 5 and up. Call 332-9172 or go to www.bricks4kidz.com for more details.

Barry Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary and Education Center:

The mission of the Barry Kirshner Wildlife Foundation is to provide rehabilitation and long-term care for exotic and native species, as well as to provide educational programs on all levels, emphasizing wildlife and habitat conservation. Field trips, tours, camps and more. Call 533-1000 or go to www.kirshner.org for more info.

Short Story Contest: Butte Literacy Council is accepting entries for their annual Short

Story Contest. Short stories from butte county residents will be judged and awarded April 10, 6:30 pm at Barnes & Nobel in Chico. Age groups range from Kindergarden thru Adult.

Entries must be postmarked by Monday, March 16th. Visit www.butteliteracycouncil.or for guidelines. For guidelines and additional information, please visit www.butteliteracycouncil. org or call 891-0137.

February Mary Poppins, The Musical Sunday, February 1st - Tuesday, March 31st

Mary Poppins is the practically perfect nanny in this musical! A great musical for young and old alike! For more details go to www.chicotheatercompany.com.

Held at Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology, CSU, Chico, from 11-3pm. Free admission and make & take projects. Share the love of museums this Valentine’s Day with a special edition of our annual Family Day program. Current Exhibition: Leaping Lemurs and Mysterious Crimes: On the Trail of Physical Anthropology. At 1pm: Join us for special recognition of our summer camp participants, who designed mini dioramas of primate habitats. 898-5397.

Habitat’s Run for Homes Saturday, February 14th

Come join Habitat for Humanity of Butte County’s 6th Annual Habitat’s Run For Homes this Valentine’s Day! This includes a 5K Race, 5K Fun Walk, and a Kids’ Run. Held at Bidwell Park - One Mile Recreation Area. www.buttehabitat.org.

Parent Night Out - Chico Creek Nature Center Saturday, February 14th

Enjoy a night out this Valentine’s Day. Leave the Kids with us. They will enjoy an evening of games, crafts, animals and nature. The event is 5pm to 10pm and you can drop off and pick up anytime. A pizza dinner will be provided. www.bidwellpark. org for more info and to register.

Miss California HeartShine Saturday, February 14th and Sunday, February 15th

HeartShine is an inner beauty benefit pageant with a focus on community service held at the Chico Holiday Inn. www.heartshine.net, 591-3627.

Continued on Page 36

events calendar events article calendar title

Minecraft Camp!

Monday, February 16th

Minecraft is a game about placing blocks to build anything you can imagine. Experience the world of Minecraft with LEGO® bricks in this fun day off camp! Students will build motorized tools, craft shelters, and build their favorite critters using LEGO® bricks during our action packed mini camp. www.bricks4kidz.com/california-chico.

Chico Performances presents: Zap Mama & Antibalas Wednesday, February 18th

From Afrobeat to Afropop. Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com.

Kidz Night Out at Bricks for Kidz Friday, February 20th

A Bricks 4 Kidz Night Out is a high-energy evening full of LEGO entertainment for kids ages 6 -12. We provide pizza, games, projects, and of course, loads of LEGO bricks for all the creativity and building their minds can imagine. From 6-9pm, www.bricks4kidz. com/california-chico.

Chico Performances presents Storm Large Thursday, February 19th

Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com for more info.

33rd Annual Almond Blossom 5K & 10K Sunday, February 22nd

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

The 10K course consists of one loop through the roads along the almond orchards of Durham. The 5K course, for both the run and walk, is a single loop incorporating the first and last miles of the 10K course. Please go to www.durhamsportsboosters. com for more info.

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella Friday, February 27th - Sunday, March 8th

Inspire School of Arts & Sciences makes a storybook come to life with great warmth and more than a touch of hilarity, in their take of the classic fairy tale. For tickets, go to: www.inspirecusd.org or the Inspire Facebook event page – CinderellaAtInspire, today! Tickets are also available at the Inspire Office, 335 W. Sacramento Ave. or by calling 891-3090. CUSD Center for the Arts, 1475 East Ave.

March 31st Annual Chico Science Fair Wednesday, March 4th and Thursday, March 5th

Held at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds Commercial Building in Chico. This year’s exhibit titled “Science Transforms Your World” showcases over 500 science projects created and displayed by local K-12 students. This free event is open from 10:00 AM till 8:00 PM. Awards will be given at a reception, Thursday at 4:00 PM. For more information, please visit the Chico Science Fair website at www.chicosciencefair.org.

Hoppy Good Time Frog Workshop for Families at Patrick Ranch Saturday, March 7th

FREE! 11-1pm. Create unique frog crafts with a brief study of frogs at the ranch. The tour of Glenwood farm house for only $5.00. Be sure to visit the gift store. For more information, call Patrick Ranch Museum at 342-4359.

Chico Spring Fling Saturday, March 7th

38 36

growingup upchico chicomagazine magazine growing

A fundraiser for Hooker Oak Elementary School at Sierra Nevada Brewery. Join us for a fantastic night of live music, silent auction and great food! Go to www. chicospringfling.com for more info.

Chico Performances presents The Intergalactic Nemesis Saturday, March 7th

Writer, director, and producer, Jason Neulander, and his collaborators have created a theatrical trilogy in celebration of 1930s radio serials, comic book culture, Star Wars, and every other adventure story you loved as a child. Call 898-6333 or go to www. chicoperformances.com for more info.

Local Environmental Horticulture Lecture at Chico Women’s Club Sunday, March 8th

Tip Wilmarth from Butte College’s environmental horticulture program will discuss the production of local wines. Free and open to the public, sponsored by the Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology. For more information contact 898-5397.

Chico Performances presents: Cirque Mechanics: Pedal Punk Tuesday, March 10th

In Pedal Punk, you’ll encounter unicycles that fly, acrobats that hover, cyclists that whirl, pole climbers that soar, and trapeze artists that float. Call 898-6333 or go to www. chicoperformances.com for more info.

Vision Therapy Information Meeting Thursday, March 12th

Held at 5:45pm at Family Eye Care, 2565 Ceanothus Ave, Suite 155. If your child is struggling in school or with reading, they may have a treatable vision problem. Come learn more about symptoms and vision therapy. For questions please call 899-3939.

Have to Have Habitat Thursday, March 12th

The Chico Creek Nature Center’s Preschool Workshops allow us to offer quality environmental education to children ages 3-5. We provide a caring and fun environment where both children and adults can enjoy learning about nature.

Please go to www.bidwellpark.org to register and for more information.

Spring Break Camp at the Nature Center Monday, March 16th - Friday, March 20th

Camp Chico Creek is an science education-based day camp for children 5 to 11 years old.

Designed to provide outdoor recreation activities and foster awareness of nature in a fun, safe, and caring setting. Please go to www.bidwellpark.org for more information.

Mining and Crafting Camp Monday, March 16th - Friday, March 20th

Kids have loads of fun (& learn a bunch) as they use LEGO® bricks to explore the world of engineering, architecture and science in an open friendly and team-based environment. Bricks 4 Kidz® camps keep the pace fast and varied with guided projects and challenges, as well as time for free-play, so the kids are always having fun! www. bricks4kidz.com/california-chico.

Heart & Sole: Run for Wellness 5K and 1-Mile Walk Run Saturday, March 21st Please go to www.underthesunevents.org for more info.

Mini Miss CA HeartShine Sunday, March 22nd

Pageant and concert at Chico Theater Company. www.heartshine.net, 591-3627.

Chico Performaces presents Amy Seiwert’s Imagery Sunday, March 22nd

Our dance festival begins with Amy Seiwert, a choreographer on the rise. She was named one of “25 to Watch” by Dance Magazine. Call 898-6333 or go to www. chicoperformances.com for more info.

The Chico Creek Nature Center’s Wine Tasting Fundraiser Thursday, March 26th

In partnership with Grocery Outlet, Chico Creek Nature Center is hosting a wine tasting event from 5 to 7pm at The Crystal Room. For a small donation at the door, ($6) sample several wines and an assortment or appetizers and deserts. All funds raised will support the Camp Chico Creek Scholarship Fund. www.bidwellpark.org.

Kidz Night Out Friday, March 27th

High Energy Fun! For ages 6 -12. Pizza, games, LEGO® challenges, Open Play and movie. Kids have ablast while you enjoy some adult time! www.bricks4kidz.com/ california-chico.

BCMOM’s Clothing & Equipment Sale Saturday, March 28th

Great on deals gently used kids clothing, equipment, and much more! For more information on location and times contact Cathy Madsack at cmadsack@gmail.com.

Chico Performances presents Joe Goode Group Performance-Hush Saturday, March 28th

Iconic San Francisco-based dance/theatre master, Joe Goode and his company members present Hush, in collaboration with Foley artist Sudhu Tewari. Hush is Goode’s first large-scale exploration using sound effects within his unique methodology of “felt movement.” Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com for more info.

Chico Kite Day Sunday, March 29th

Experience the color and excitement of kite flying during the Annual Chico Kite Day. Watch the sky dance with fun and imaginative kites. All kite flyers will receive a souvenir, compliments of Bird in Hand, and music will be provided by Oldies 102.1 FM. 12-4pm at Community Park, Free. www.chicirec.com.

April Thursday Night Market Opening Night Thursday, April 5th

Farm-fresh produce, delicious food, arts and crafts, and live entertainment! 6-9pm in downtown Chico. www.downtownchico.com

Angry Birdies Camp Friday, April 3rd

Enter the world of Angry Birds and Bad Piggies the Bricks 4 Kidz way! Set your birds to flight by launching them on catapults and slingshots to destroy pigs. Build a working launcher to create things to knock down. Campers will love building different characters and motorized challenges with LEGO ® Bricks! Take home, creative surprises, too! www.bricks4kidz.com/ california-chico.

Spring On Parade at The Patrick Ranch Museum Saturday, April 4th

11-1pm. Create Easter bonnets and other Easter projects. Prizes for the best hats. Visit with chickens and learn about eggs. See the variety of animals, such as sheep and rabbits at the ranch. Take a tour of Glenwood farm house decorated for spring. The tour is $5. Buy those last minutes Easter gifts for your Easter baskets. For more information, call Patrick Ranch Museum at 342-4359.

Chico Walks for Autism Saturday, April 4th

The 4th Annual Chico Walks for Autism, hosted by The Yellow Door. Held in Bidwell Park, starts at 9am. This event includes a 3 mile walk, with live entertainment after, as well as sensory play areas for kids. Enjoy food available for purchase from local vendors. Please go to www. yellowdoorchico.com for more information.

Spring Jamboree Saturday, April 4th

The Bunny is coming to town! Children in 3rd grade and younger are invited to celebrate Easter and meet the Easter Bunny at the Annual Spring Jamboree! Purchase your ticket at the event registration table the day of the event. www.chicirec.com.

Jem, Mineral & Jewelry Show Saturday, April 4th & Sunday, April 5th

Presented by the Paradise Gem & Mineral Club, see coupon on ad in this issue. Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, 2357 Fair St., www.paradisegemclub.org.

Chico Performance presents Buddy Guy Tuesday, April 7th

Call 898-6333 or go to www.chicoperformances.com for more info.

Park Needs Seeds - Preschool Program Thursday, April 9th

The Chico Creek Nature Center’s Preschool Workshops allow us to offer quality environmental education to children ages 3-5. We provide a caring and fun environment where both children and adults can enjoy learning about nature. Please go to www. bidwellpark.org to register and for more infomation.

Sweet Repeats Sale Thursday, April 9th - Sunday, April 12th

Sweet Repeats is a seasonal infant, children, teen and maternity consignment sale. For more info, please go to www.sweetrepeatsale.com.

Walk 4 Water Saturday, April 11th

The W4W is educational, fun and inspirational for all ages. The walk begins with each walker carrying an empty bucket to a half way point. Along the way, there are education stations that teach walkers about conservation, sanitation and hygiene. Please go to bridgingthegapbygiving.org for more info.

Trail Less Traveled 5K, 1/4 Marathon & 14 Mile Trail Runs Sunday, April 12th Please go to www.underthesunevents.org for more info.

The 4th annual Celebrate The Jewel Saturday, April 18th

Celebrate the Jewel is a free family-friendly event that features recreational and educational organizations that use the park. Attendees will enjoy free admission to Chico Creek Nature Center, a free bike valet, crafts, face painting, a chance to meet some our animals and more!

11am to 4pm at the Chico Creek Nature Center. www.bidwellpark.org.

Children’s Faire Saturday, April 18th

Bring the family to downtown Chico for the annual Children’s Faire. Held from 10-2pm in City Plaza. Free activities and resources for children of all ages!

California Nut Festival Saturday, April 18th

Food, wine and beer lovers unite! With a focus on locally grown foods from the North Valley, the sixth annual California Nut Festival is from 11-4 at the historic grounds of the Patrick Ranch Museum in Chico. www.californianutfestival.com.

Classes Directory Birth Boot Camp for Partners:

Are you wondering how you can support your partner during labor and birth? Do you want to help, but don’t know what to do? This class is for you! This is a 2 hour couple’s class designed to teach women and their partners how to work together during labor and birth. $40 per couple. email saratingeygordon@gmail.com to register. Sunday, March 29 from 4-6 pm.

The Nest, 7 Governors Lane, Chico.

Bricks 4 Kidz: Bricks 4 Kidz classes provide an extraordinary atmosphere for children, where we learn, we build, we play… with LEGO® bricks. We offer afterschool enrichment classes, mommy & me classes, camps, open play, special events and much more! 510 Walnut St. Chico, 332-9172, www.bricks4kidz.com/ california-chico or find us them facebook.

Chico Creek Dance Center:

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

Now offering pre-dance classes, too. 1144 W. 1st St, Chico, 893.9028, www. chicocreekdancecentre.com.

Chico DOJO:

We believe in building children’s self confidence and strength from the inside out and promoting physical fitness all in a FUN and UPBEAT environment! Offering classes for ages 3 and up. 483 East Ave., Chico, 898-9753, www.chicodojo.com.

Chico Rockstars: We offer music lessons in guitar, drums, bass, piano, voice, audio recording, and more! Private, Semi-Private, and Band Lessons, as well as Group Classes. 932 West 8th Ave., 809-4932, Chico, www.chicorockstars.com or find them on facebook.

Childbirth Education: Great Expectations at The Nest: This is a one-day childbirth education workshop designed to prepare you for childbirth.

Participants receive a pregnancy and birth guide with additional access to online information and video support. Single mamas and couples welcome. Saturday, February 28- 10 am to 3 pm OR Sunday, April 12 - 10 am to 3pm. $90/couple. The Nest, 7 Governors Ln, Chico, 828-1900, www.thenestchico.com.

HYPE Dance Studio: We offer Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, Tap, Lyrical & Contemporary, and much more! Please visit website for a full list of classes and schedules. 1033 Mangrove Ave. Chico, 898-8789, www.hypedancestudio.com.

Irlen Visions: The Irlen Method is non-invasive, drug-free technology that uses colored overlays and spectral filters worn as glasses to improve the brain’s ability to process visual information, reading difficulties & relieves visual stress, chronic migraines/headaches. Susan Hughes MA will be teaching Irlen Screener Trainer classes in Chico: Feb. 21/22, May 16/17, July 25/26, Nov. 14/15. 891-4783, www. irlenvisions.com.

JEI Learning Center: JEI Learning Center offers an individualized, supplemental learning program for grades K-12. We provide comprehensive classes in Math, Problem Solving, English, Reading and Writing in order to enhance critical thinking skills, and help our students excel academically. 2500 Zanella Way, Suite B, Chico, 267-1300, chico.jeilearning.com, www.facebook. com/ChicoJeiLearningCenter.

Northern California Ballet: Classes in pre ballet through professional also adult instruction Ages 4 through adult. Instruction in ballet for the serious dancer wishing to train for excellent technique and dance presentation and performing opportunity by audition. 877-7028, 5794 Clark Rd, Paradise.

WaterSprites Swim School: Year round lessons for ages 2 months and up, indoor pool, and small class sizes. 2280 Ivy St, Ste. 110, Chico, 342-2999, www. chicowatersprites.com.

The Wright Keys: At The Wright Keys, you will find lessons and classes for

piano, voice, guitar, bass, violin, flute, percussion, mandolin, brass and woodwind instruments. The Wright Keys also offers preschool music classes and music therapy. 556 Vallombrosa Ave., Chico, 781-2224, www.thewrightkeys.com.

Summer’s Coming!

Don’t let your Summer Camp go unnoticed, advertise in Growing Up Chico’s annual Summer Camp Directory.

Contact us by March 31st.

www.growingupchico.com 530-519-0320

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 & 12:15pm - 3:15pm & 12:30pm-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

T

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

S N

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

D L T S

Kids Park

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

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

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.

D L A S Y

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.

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

D L Y S

Parkside Daycare

0-9 years

6am-6pm Monday-Friday

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

D L A S

Valley Oaks Children’s Services, (VOCS)

Referrals for infants12 years

Varies

“Love, laughter and learning all under one roof!”

Offering 4 separate preschool classes, including a “Junior Kindergarten.” Daily enrichment classes make learning fun: creative movement, yoga, cooking, dance, music, Spanish, gardening, park walks (Bidwell Park is at our doorstep), Zoo Phonics, and visits to the Chico Nature Center. Come Discover with Us!

3120 Cohasset Rd, Suite 6 Chico, CA 95973 530.895.3572 or 800.345.8627 www.valleyoakchildren.org

Wood Family Farm

3-8 years

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

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!

343-7120 www.WoodFamilyFarm.net

D L T A S Y

License # 045404389

License # 045406630

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

License # 045405971

License # 045404701, 045404702

License # 045406027

License # 045405784

38 38 growing chico magazine growinupup growing up chico chico magazine magazine

License # 045405614

License# 045406227

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

Looking for Child Care for an Infant, Preschooler or School-age child? Let VOCS take the guess work out of choosing a program by referring you to local Butte County child care programs and giving you the tools you need to select a program that best meets your child’s and family’s needs.

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

L T S

D L S

Growing Up Chico’s Business Directory

Apple Blossom Baby: Amy Evans Photography: Book Family Farm: Bricks 4 Kidz: Carrie Smith: CAbi: Chico Community Acupuncture: Chico Country Day School: Chico Creek Dance Centre: Chico Creek Nature Center: Chico Dojo: Chico Inspire School Presents: Chico Mothers’ Club: Chico Pediatric Dentistry:

Chico Performances: Chico Rockstars: Chico Spring Fling: Children’s Faire: Colleen Pembroke: Creative Outlets Preschool: Dignity Health, St. Elizabeth’s Community Hospital: Downtown Chico Business Association: Emily Hajec Photography: Family Eye Care Optometry: Feather River Hospital: Forest Ranch Charter School: Funny Faces Chico:

Gateway Science Museum: Gem & Mineral Show: HYPE Dance Studio:

pg 39 pg 20 pg 22 pg 17, 32 pg 33 pg 9 pg 22 pg 38 pg 15, 31 pg 20, 22,32 pg 20 pg 9 pg 27 pg 12 pg 8, 10 pg 17, 32 pg 22 pg 20 pg 32 pg 38 pg 8 pg 24 pg 31 pg 7, 31 pg 7 pg 12 pg 22, 30 pg 5 pg 24 pg 24, 30

HypnoBirthing: In Motion Fitness: Irlen Visions: Italian Cottage: Jacqueline Kowtko: JEI Learning Center: Kaleidoscope: Kids In Motion (In Motion Fitness): Kids Park:

Little Sprouts Preschool: Mountain Circle Family Services: Parkside Daycare: Patrick Ranch Museum: PTL Pediatric Day Health Center: Rose Scott School: Round Table Pizza: Strong Beginnings: Supportive Conceptions Surrogacy Agency: Sweetwater: Terry Basile, MFT: The Creative Apple: The Nest: The Wright Keys: The Yellow Door: Thrive Learning Center: Under The Sun Events: Valley Oak Children’s Services: Watersprites Swim School: Wood Family Farm Preschool: Youthful Smiles Dentistry:

pg 20 pg 40 pg 12, 31 pg 24 pg 32 pg 17 pg11 pg 40 pg 5, 30, 38 pg 19, 38 pg 27 pg 30, 38 pg 27, 30 pg 7 pg 19 pg 15 pg 19, 33 pg 12, 31 pg 11, 33 pg 20 pg 22 pg 19, 31 pg 20, 33 pg 2 pg 22, 32 pg 22, 33 pg 12 pg 3 pg 12, 38 pg 27, 32