Growing Up Chico Spring 2014

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a quarterly resource celebrating family life in butte county Spring 2014 February - March - April

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Our 10th Annual

Women in Business Issue!

Colorful Discoveries: Your Inner Artist

Life Learning:

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Green Cleaning:

Spring Clean Your House, Toxin Free!

Parenting Challenge: Dealing With Disaster

Perspective: Is my Teen Ready to Date?

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

When I think of spring in Chico, I think of bright colors from the new growth of leaves and flowers, longer days, and outdoor family fun. 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 for a quick hello or ask us what we are doing next.

At home, spring is a good time to get organized and start that “spring cleaning.” In this issue, we have an article on how to clean with products that are not hazardous to your health or the environment.

There are even recipes for making your own green cleaning products.

If you want to get outdoors this spring, consider running one of the philanthropic 5K runs or walks, such as the 3rd Annual, Chico Walks for Autism or the Walk for Water. Check out our articles on these events for information and see our calendar for other events that are put on to support a cause.

There are also articles in this issue that deal with parenting and the dilemmas parents may face while raising children. Be sure to read the article on helping children deal with the natural disasters and other events they may hear on the news. Another article you may want to read is about a father’s perspective on his teen daughter’s desire to date.

Our kids sure grow up fast!

I am always surprised at the number of articles and photos 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 this continued support. 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

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

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

Terry J. Basile, LMFT Terry has been a therapist, program administrator and involved with feelings education throughout her career. Presently, she has a private practice in Chico and has written the children’s book Let’s Color Your Feelings! available through her website: letscoloryourfeelings.com, Amazon or Lyon’s Books. You can also reach her through her email address tjbasile@yahoo.com.

Eric Miler Eric is a consultant and freelance writer based in Chico. A native of Colorado Springs, Eric has lived in Northern California over 20 years. He is trapped in a household of estrogen, but lives on to tell the story. He welcomes readers to share their ideas. Read more of his stories at www.etcguy.com or contact him at eric@etcguy.com.

Rachel Teasdale Rachel is a professor in the Department of Geological & Environmental Sciences at CSU, Chico, and has been with the Chico Science Fair Foundation since 2009. Rachel’s research interests include: Volcanology, Igneous Petrology and Geoscience Education.

Joan Goodreau Joan is a local Chico author and has just published her memoir, Strangers Together: How My Son’s Autism Changed My Life (available on Amazon and at Lyon’s Bookstore and Learning Center.) Her experience as a Special Education teacher and Program Specialist allows her to see the puzzle of autism from a professional, as well as a parental perspective.

Teresa Cotner Teresa came to the Department of Art and Art History at Chico State in 2006. Her PhD in Art Education is from Stanford University. Teresa is a former Department Chair and teaches art education to future teachers at Chico State. She is Director of the Northern Region of the California Arts Project and leads an Internship program at the Turner Print Museum on the Chico State campus where she collaborates with Chico State students on art lessons based on the current exhibitions that are taught, free of charge, to local kids ages 6-18. See page 12 for info.

On The Cover: Marisa Moser, with her student, Emily, on the Arabian gelding, Bey Tempo.

Cover Photo By: Tania Dunlap, specializing in equine portraits with their human companions.

Contact her at Tania@SpringValleyRanch.com

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

by March 31st.

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

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

Like us on facebook to find out about events, special offers and promotional giveaways! facebook.com/growingupchico

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894-6800

2477 Forest Ave Lic#045404701, 045404702

Come by for a tour!

In Chico For ages 2-12

Women In Business 2014

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Family Time 10

Chico Performances Field Trip Series

School and Home 20

Challenges of Parenting: Helping Your Children Through Unsafe Times

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Walk 4 Water

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Paper Bead Making

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The Yellow Door: Walk for Autism

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Celebrating 30 Years of Science

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Greener Spring Cleaning

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Janet Turner Invites Kids to get Creative

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Rowell Family Empowerment

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Local Artist Paints her Stories

Growing up Greener 31

Make Your Own Natural Cleaning Products at Home

24 Dating Dilema

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Daughter’s Dating is Dad’s Dilema

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10th Annual Women In Business

32 34 38 39

Local Resources

Women in Business IN EVERY ISSUE Events Calendar

Preschool Directory Advertiser’s Directory

Children 20 Helping Through Unsafe Times

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family time www.growingupchico.com

By Samantha Forth

S

chool, and childhood, is filled with many opportunities to learn and have new, wondrous adventures.

The Chico Performances Field Trip Series gives teachers and their students the opportunity to adventure to the theatre together. Attending theater performances is a great way to diversify learning and introduce students to potential new interests and hobbies.

At only $5 a seat, the Field Trip performances that Chico Performances offers are an affordable alternative for schools to get kids out of the classroom and involved in art. These performances are shortened to only 50 minutes, allowing for sufficient time out of the classroom without cutting into lesson plans.

The Field Trip learning experience is

complete with the information on theater etiquette acquired prior to the production, and study guides that Chico Performances provides to teachers online.

There are still tickets available to the following Field Trip performances: North State Symphony

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North State Symphony will be featuring the touching love story of Romeo & Juliet on February 12 at 11:30 a.m. In this concert, Shakespeare’s passionate verse, combined with equally exciting music, will be showcased. This performance is a perfect blend of different forms of art that will engage and move students.

True Blues

On Friday, February 14th at 9:30 a.m., True Blues will chronicle the extraordinary living culture of the Blues in a performance of music and conversation.

This performance is not only a musical trip, but is a living history lesson as well.

Carlos Nuñez

The Carlos Nuñez band will perform bouzouki, guitar and the fiddle, along with many other instruments, on the Laxson stage on February 24th at 9:30 a.m. This band of young, talented musicians is

sure to rev up students’ appreciation for different styles of world music.

Keeping Dance Alive!

Keeping Dance Alive! is a repertory dance concert that celebrates the diversity of dance, from ballet to hip-hop, modern jazz to belly dance, tap, Irish Step, contemporary, and much more! Perfect as an introduction to the various forms of dance for students, this Field Trip offers a sampler set of performances, all performed by local dancers on Friday, March 7th at 9:30 a.m.

Chamber Orchestra Kremlin

On Wednesday, March 12th at 9:30 a.m., this string orchestra, composed of some of Russia’s finest young string players, comes to Laxson Auditorium. The warmth and high energy of a Chamber Orchestra Kremlin concert creates performances that reach out to listeners, enveloping them in soaring strings and musical vitality.

San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers

Take the sound of one Scottish fiddler, and multiply it by 50, add pipes, whistles, guitars, cellos, flutes, piano, and percussion, and you have the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers. An impromptu, high-energy fiddle jam is sure to have students dancing in their seats when the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers come to Chico on Friday, April 11th at 9:30 a.m.

Aladdin JR.

Disney’s Aladdin JR. is filled with magic, mayhem, and flying carpet rides. Students’ spirits will soar and their toes will tap as the talented young performers of Playhouse Youth Theatre perform this beloved tale.

Don’t miss the chance to give students the experience of live performances! For more information on these performances, please go to www.chicoperformances. com, and click on the “For the Kids” button on the top right for Field Trip forms, rules, and study guides. For tickets, go to chicoperformances.com or call the Chico University Box Office at 898-6333.

family time

The Janet Turner Print Museum Invites Kids to Get Creative!

www.growingupchico.com

SPRING 2014 • • • • • • •

FREE FOR KIDS INTERESTED IN ART OPEN TO STUDENTS FROM 1st to 12th GRADES HANDS-ON ART ACTIVITIES VIEW & DISCUSS CURRENT EXHIBITIONS DEVELOPED BY DR. TERESA COTNER & THE CSU, CHICO ART EDUCATION PROGRAM SIGN UP EARLY. EACH WORKSHOP LIMITED TO 12 STUDENTS. EACH PARTICIPANT IS LIMITED TO ONE WORKSHOP PER EXHIBITION TO REGISTER, EMAIL US AT FORKIDS@ THETURNER.ORG BY THE FRIDAY IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THE WORKSHOP YOU CHOOSE

SCHEDULE:

EACH WORKSHOP IS ON A TUESDAY, 3:30 to 5:00 PM

“PUSHING BOUNDARIES—EXPANDING HORIZONS: 10TH JANET TURNER NATIONAL PRINT COMPETITION & EXHIBITION” JAN 28, FEB 4, FEB 11, FEB 18

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“ANGLES & PLANES: JANET TURNER & THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT” MARCH 11, MARCH 25, APRIL 1, APRIL 8 “19TH JURIED STUDENT PRINT EXHIBITION & 12TH INK/CLAY” APRIL 29, MAY 6

IT’S FUN, IT’S FREE, IT’S FOR YOU!

6th Annual Walk 4 Water

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ould you like to have fun as a family and learn what it would be like to live in Africa and have to walk daily for water? If the answer is yes, the 6th Annual Walk4Water will be ideal for your family, friends or a team from work.

The W4W is educational, fun and inspirational for all ages.

The event begins with each walker carrying their own empty bucket to walk a 2K or a 5K. As they walk, they pass by educational stations to learn what it would be like to gather water in a developing country and to learn about water conservation in their own community. Many of the educational stations are put on by various schools and service groups in our community. At the midpoint, walkers will fill their buckets with water from the creek and continue the walk.

The money raised last year will provide 2,337 Africans clean water sanitation and training in hygiene for life. The success of the event was due to the great spirit of generosity in our community.

Shirley Adams founded bridging The Gap By Giving Foundation eight years ago, under the umbrella of North Valley Community Foundation. One hundred percent of money raised goes for safe water projects in developing countries. I invite you to visit BTG’S website to learn more about their work. www.btg4water.org Date: April 5, 8:30 AM Location: Bidwell Park Early Registration Fees: March 1 - March 15, Adults: 13 years and up $15, Children: 12 and under $5.

Late Registration Fees: March 16 - April 5, Adults: 13 years and up $20, Children: 12 and under $10. Registration begins March 1st.

Register on line or pick up brochures at Beatniks, Bidwell Perk, and Starbucks.

Questions: Call Shirley Adams, 530-342-5746.

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family time

AUTISM AWARENESS

The Yellow Door Presents the 3rd Annual Chico Walks for Autism

Rowell Family Empowerment: A Friendly Place for Parents

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By Joan Goodreau

I am a parent of a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder,

and I look forward to Autism Month in April as a chance to check out new resources and services in the North Valley. The first place I go to is the Rowell Family Empowerment of Northern California (RFENC).

Rowell has a history of helping parents since its beginning in 1995. It is a parent-founded and operated, non-profit organization with free services to families of children with diverse abilities. As parents, we often feel confused, overwhelmed and alone. RFENC provides us with support, education and advocacy.

Sometimes I drop by to look through their library for books and audio/visual recordings or to just chat. When I walk through the door, I am greeted by friendly consultants who have children with disabilities and have traveled the same road I have. Trained in Special Education regulations, they listen to our problems and advise us on such questions as how to get respite child care or more information about our child’s disability.

The RFENC offices in Chico and Redding offer monthly workshops on topics that meet the needs of infants through high school students. Some parents cannot attend these meetings because they live too far away from Chico and Redding. When my son was little, I could not find child care or transportation, and many parents share this problem. Now, Rowell solved this challenge with webinars.

We can watch from our own homes. RFENC encourages parents to gather whenever possible for these webinars so they can discuss what they learn and support each other while meeting their children’s and families’ needs.

One popular offering, the Individualized Education Program (IEP) workshop, shows how to prepare for your child’s annual progress meeting (IEP) and make sure your student gets the instruction and services needed for success. Another workshop, called, “Passport to the Future,” tells how you and your child can plan and prepare for what lies ahead after high school. The workshop on Positive Behavior Support gives strategies on how to improve behavior. The Redding office also offers a program called S.L.A.T.E (Successful Living with Autism through Training and Education) for the families and children on the broad autism spectrum.

Rowell offers support groups for parents of children with: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Downs Syndrome and Infant Diabetes. The Redding office also offers a Deaf and Hard of Hearing support group and a Grandparents Raising their Grandchildren support group. Dedicated to multiculturalism, Rowell offers groups in Spanish, as well as English. RFENC is always open to parents who want to start and run a support group.

They offer stipends to lead parents and financial assistance for supplies.

The program manager at the Chico office, Theresa Rivera, wants to add more support groups. She says, “More grandparents are raising children with diverse abilities now, so I want to offer a support group for grandparents and other caregivers in the Chico area.”

When my family was young, little attention was paid to the brothers and sisters of children with diverse abilities; however, RFEMC has designed a special program called Sibshops that includes Saturday activities such as crafts and bowling. Siblings support each other while having fun.

Rowell continues to grow new projects, so stop by and visit with Theresa at the Chico Office or Gina at the Redding Office. For more information, check their website www.

EmpowerYourFamily.org, or call the Chico Office at: 530-899-8801 or the Redding Office at: 530-226-5129.

he 3rd Annual Chico Walks for Autism will be held April 26th from 8:30-12pm. This event is hosted by The Yellow Door, a non-profit account of the North Valley Community Foundation. This event grew significantly last year with over 1,000 participants walking, rolling and running their way through Bidwell Park. Morning events include: vendor booths, sensory play area for children, and a food truck meet-up, post walk. Last year’s walk sponsors played a huge role in the event’s success: LRT Graphics, Earl’s Performance Pluming, Dayton Sayer Insurance, Scrubbs Car Wash, Stifel Nicolaus, Immediate Care, Chuck Patterson, Riley’s Bar and Grill, Guided Spectrum, WBC Inspections, Asset Management Group,

Ford’s Custom Rocks, George Brownridge DDS and the Greek Inter Fraternity Counsel.

We appreciate their support.

Last year, Matt Clough provided music throughout the morning and Parent Infant Programs ran activities for children. The walk is a 5k loop with a smaller loop option available to families or individuals who would like a shorter distance. Last year, many families brought wagons and strollers for the younger members of the family. The money raised from the event

over the past two years has funded both individual and community grants to local families. This amount has totaled over 6,000 dollars. This year’s walk will help raise money for similar projects, as well as help co-sponsor an overnight art, drama and movement summer camp with the Autism Clinic at California State University, Chico, for children and young adults on the spectrum.

The Yellow Door came together out of two desires: to support individuals with autism and their families and to provide volunteer opportunities and promote awareness to the Chico community. The Center for Disease Control places the current rates of autism at 1/88 children—a number that continues to increase.

Individuals with autism and other disabilities and their families often fight for awareness, recognition as individuals, and services that are limited. Our intent through events, such as Chico Walks for Autism, is to promote a greater sense of community and awareness for all those participating.

The name, “The Yellow Door,” comes from an individual with autism that Josie, Co-Chair of the Yellow Door, worked with many years ago that liked doors. When asked what this individual’s

favorite color for a door would be if they could pick, they answered “yellow, because it’s like opening a door of sunshine.” That positive image is something that The Yellow Door hopes to foster.

North Valley Community Foundation (NVCF), administrator of The Yellow

Door Fund, is a non-profit, philanthropic organization that builds financial resources to meet community needs through grants and programs primarily for residents in the Butte, Colusa, Glenn, and Tehama counties. With net assets of more than $4 million, NVCF provides financial and administrative services to donors, professional advisors and nonprofit organizations with the goal of enriching the quality of life of its community members. Since 1986, over 200 individuals, families, businesses, and community groups have established funds at the Foundation. Last year, $377,000 in funds was distributed to benefit the community.

For more information contact Josie, Co-Chair of The Yellow Door at theyellowdoorchico@ gmail.com.

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family time

Local Artist

Local Artist Paints Her Stories

by DeAnna Holman

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ne summer, I had a booth at the Annual Patrick Ranch Threshing Bee. In a fortunate twist of events, I ended up with young modern artist, Caitlin Schwerin, neighboring my booth. She was only there one day, but it seemed like I had always known her. She was like that fun cousin or friend with whom, no matter how much time has past since your last visit, you could pick up where you left off as if you had never been apart. She was very enthusiastic about the work I had done for magazines and we talked about our art, our booths and our ideals. Her enthusiasm was part of her character; a free spirit, accepting and positive. She beamed happy energy with her radiant smile and positive attitude. That same energy was reflected in her paintings which were colorful and whimsical. Clearly, she uses her paintings to express herself.

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s Caitlin told James Cameron in the back issue (Fall 2008) of Artworks Magazine (about painting), “It’s a cheap visit to the shrink….with no time limit. I’m an up and down, emotional person. In my painting, and in the stories, I’m communicating with myself and my emotions. My subject matter changes with my moods, but whatever the mood, I’m happy in my studio depicting it.” James Cameron states, “That subject matter covers a broad range of life images: pure abstracts, landscapes, figures, trees, flowers, fruit, birds, hearts, stars and

crowns. Trees are one of Caitlin’s favorite subjects. Tall trees, short trees, thin trees, fat trees, smooth trees or gnarly treesthe landscapes seem to take the viewer somewhere familiar. Her barns are the same way- memorable and somehow soothing. The abstracts have a special quality, a style all their own that is at once arresting and restful, with colors ranging from subdued to brilliantly provocative.

Caitlin works in acrylic on canvas with an underlay of heavy gesso applied with a palette knife that lends a signature swirled texture to the finish. Paint is applied with brushes and sponges - skies dabbed on in Prussian blue, light blue, and soft yellow hues have a particularly soft, velvety appeal. ‘All my backgrounds are done with a sponge,’ she says, ‘and applying the gesso is just like icing a cake.’ Sketching is minimal. ‘I usually have an idea in mind but I change it, paint as I go.’ The work is finished with a coat of oil-based gloss varnish, another Schwerin trademark.”

I

really enjoyed that summer day when I met talented, outgoing, fun-loving professional artist, Caitlin Schwerin and I have enjoyed her wonderful paintings. I have had the pleasure of Caitlin’s friendship and I, of course, have purchased one of her paintings. You can view her art at www.caitlinschwerin.com.

Her art is up around town, but I love the display at Monk’s Lounge and Bistro in Chico. You may purchase her paintings by contacting her through her website.

See the full Artworks Magazine article by purchasing the back-issue at Amazon.com.

Meet Me, the Artist Written by Caitlin Schwerin

My name is Caitlin Schwerin. I am a transplant from the Bay Area, and I’ve lived 14 wonderful years here in Chico. And by here, I actually need to include Durham, because I am a now a resident in this charming town.

I started painting my first year in college.

I didn’t for a second, consider it more than a hobby. A few years later, I was constructing all my space around this hobby. I held full-time jobs, quit college for 6 years, continued to paint in my spare time, and then something magical happened.

On the eve of my 6th year away from college, I held an art show in conjunction with our office Christmas party. I sold half my show… HALF! I could afford to go back to school. So I quit my job, packed my things and came back to Chico. I earned my BA in Fine Art, got a good local job which I held for almost two years, and then, when times were tough, and the company let 45% of their staff go…

I decided to just paint; See if I could make it work.

It was 4 years on the 15th of November. It worked!! It turns out you can do what you love and get by.

About my work: There is a heavy helping of gesso that creates the texture – something I picked up by mistake in 1999 while spilling a quart of it in my Dad’s garage. My medium is acrylic, and my tools are brushes and sponges.

I make most of my frames. The images are part photographs of places I’ve been or driven by, and part complete imagination. All of them are emotionally seasoned.

Please visit my website: www. caitlinschwerin.com.

And welcome to my world.

school and home www.growingupchico.com growing up chico magazine 18

Celebrating 30 Years of Science!

By Rachel Teasdale, PhD, Board President Chico Science Fair Foundation

2014 marks the 30th anniversary of the Chico Science Fair- the annual celebration of scientific investigations by Chico’s budding scientists. Originally established by Margaret Korte and Leonard Whitegon, the Chico Science Fair began with more than 500 projects in its first year, when it was hosted in the East Gym of Pleasant Valley High School. In those days, there were so many wonderful projects that many had to be displayed on the floor, where judges crawled on hands and knees to examine students’ work.

Over the course of the last 30 years, the Chico Science Fair has evolved to become an important educational event in Chico, and has grown to include nearly 1000 student entries each year (That’s nearly 30,000 children participants throughout our 30 year history!). Hundreds of families and community members attend the Chico Science Fair Awards Ceremony each year, when we meet to honor Chico’s impressive budding young scientists and the wonderful projects they have investigated.

The success and longevity of the Chico Science Fair is due to a dedicated core of hundreds of volunteers and donors who collaborate to make the week-long event happen each year. Many of our volunteers have helped for decades! We are also fortunate to call upon the expertise of more than 100 judges who hail from diverse science and engineering disciplines to read through every project entered in the Chico Science Fair in order to honor the scientific efforts of Chico’s children.

The reach of the Chico Science Fair carries forward throughout the lives of many participants. We have an impressive group of alumni who have continued their pursuit of science, many of whom claim fond memories of the Chico Science Fair.

“The Chico Science Fair provided me with my first scientific experience. I think that this experience was instrumental in my later decision to pursue high school courses in advanced science topics, and ultimately led to my decision to pursue science as a career,” (Dylan Burge, PostDoctoral Research

Scientist, California Academy of Sciences).

Joanna Johnson is now a biologist and NCAA All-American athlete, using her interest in science and sport to support women’s empowerment and she says, “Science Fair projects provided ways for me to experience firsthand, the fun of authentic scientific research and discovery.”

Vanessa Cox entered the Chico Science Fair several years, and is now a PhD Candidate in Biochemistry at Georgia Tech. Cox found the Chico Science Fair a meaningful part of her scientific evolution as well- saying, “I can promise that what the children learn through the science fair will change how they make decisions, how they think about their world, and, ultimately, how they find their place in it …”

The scientific interest and curiosity of Chico area children is not to be missed!

Come see their wonderful work for yourself, at the 2014 Chico Science Fair, which is the week of March 24, with the Awards Ceremony the evening of Thursday, March 27th at the Chico Fairgrounds.

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school and home

Current Challenges of Parenting:

Helping Your Child Through Unsafe Times

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t is spring and the earth is beginning to flower again. It is that precious time before the return of the oppressive heat of our summers. Yet, it is also the anniversary of the bombing at the Boston Marathon. I wish I could believe that this would be the last event of that kind, but I don’t. Sometimes it feels like there is an endless stream of tornados, floods, fires or earthquakes across the world that is brought into our homes through the media. Giant screens make the suffering more real and emotionally charged. We talk about it, unable to make any sense of it all. Our children are listening

By Terry J. Basile, Marriage and Family Therapist

and watching it all. Even infants and toddlers can feel our distress.

As a therapist, working with children and trauma, I know that how we respond to a traumatic event is crucial in reducing the short and long term effects of the event on our young. How do we keep our children feeling safe in what we know more than ever is an unsafe world? How do we hold their “emotional” and “spiritual” hand through a national tragedy or natural disaster?

Let’s first talk about how we need to deal with our own feelings in order to help our children.

Often, after these events,

we feel tired, distracted, angry, helpless and unsafe ourselves.

No matter how depressed we feel, we need to activate emotional support through contact with family, friends, nature or our spiritual beliefs.

It is not a time to take on big changes at home or work.

Allow some of your usual scheduled household tasks to slide.

There are ways to set up a healing atmosphere for your children, especially those 12 and under.

Turn the TV and computers off. Spend your time snuggling with the kids, playing board games or any family activity. Even though it might feel disrespectful to

an adult, it is okay to laugh at your children’s silly jokes.

This reassures them that life will continue as it was and that you all will be okay.

Keep discussion of current events simple. Answer questions truthfully, but with limited information.

How many people died is not important information.

‘Why’ is far too complicated to address in terms of mental illness or politics. You can acknowledge that a terrible event happened and people were hurt.

Confirm that they are safe now and that you will do whatever you can to keep it that way. Some children might actually be relieved

that you have a plan for a natural disaster. If not, create one. You may want to include older children in activities like buying extra water, stocking up on food and practicing exit strategies from your home.

This should be a positive experience that shows that there are actually things we can do to better prepare for a disaster. We all feel better when we can take concrete action. So, if a child wants to write a card or send a personal donation to a disaster relief program, support them.

Always be sure to have a conversation about feelings.

This is a “teaching” moment.

Lead by example. Share your feelings with simple statements like, “I am sad.

I am angry.” Then ask them how they feel. Help your child discover where in their body they hold their feelings. Then give them some ideas on how

to release them. Some kids go outside and roar like a dragon or take a deep breath, then blow out all the ‘yucky feelings.’ It depends on the style of your child. Some will know exactly what they need to do, but others will need you to give them options. Include them in the decision. This is a tool that is useful every day and is invaluable to have in place in times of crisis.

The most important thing to remember is that children are not little adults.

Do not expect them to deal with trauma the way you do. Your job as a parent is to ‘be prepared.’ Take a few minutes to discuss this information with partners, grandparents, school and childcare professionals. Then you can go back to enjoying the brighter light of spring, knowing you are ready for any clouds on the horizon.

school and home

Paper Bead Making

You’ll Need:

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• • • • •

Junk mail such as catalogs or magazinesglossy, colorful pages work best Glue stick White glue Toothpick or other small cylinder, such as an ink pen refill String or wire for creating your beaded jewelry

Instructions:

1. Find some colorful, glossy pages in old magazines, catalogs or junk mail.

2. Cut one 4-inch by 1-inch triangle out of the paper for each bead you plan to make.

Rectangles will work to create a different shape.

3. Apply glue from the glue stick to the narrow end of the triangle.

4. Use your toothpick or small cylinder to roll the triangle from the wide end up to the glued end.

5. Make sure the narrow end is secured well to the bead so it does not come unraveled and then slide it off of your cylinder.

6. “Seal” your bead using one part white glue to three parts water. Painting this solution over your bead will protect it from the elements and keep it from unraveling.

7. Let the beads dry and then string your beads to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind jewelry or combine the paper beads with other beads for more variety. Make necklaces, eye-glass holders, earrings, bracelets, bookmarks, etc. - The sky is the limit!

school and home www.growingupchico.com growing up chico magazine 24

Daughter’s Dating is Dad’s Dilemma

P

By Eric Miller

arenthood was simpler when Kate was four. Her life before high school and boys is a foggy memory. I yearn for the toddler years when she bummed rides on my shoulders. I would gladly relive having a sore neck and achy back. Kate’s now sixteen and college is on the horizon. I try not to waste time watching it fly by.

At sixteen my mind and hormones wandered aimlessly. My biology teacher taught basic anatomy, but it was a friend’s secret stash of magazines that opened Pandora’s Box. Lust confused matters of the heart. In chemistry, I learned that protons were attracted to electrons, and they stick together, like partners; but with lust and love, the attractions fade and disintegrate. At best, lust and love are tangent. After contact they divert away.

My image back then was as superficial as I view a Kardashian.

I was a clean-cut jock. I played hockey, took college prep classes, and shoveled snow from Grandma’s porch. Outwardly, I squeaked cleaner than polished glass. But on the inside, my testosterone raged like a wildfire and spiked more abruptly than a NASDAQ composite. My folks encouraged my brother and me to date girls, but they were nonchalant.

“Just don’t be stupid.” Though we got A’s and B’s, we still did stupid things. The source of said stupidity was inside our genes, and our jeans. Good grades may mask stupidity, but they don’t prevent it.

The fathers of the gals I dated in high school were seemingly aloof men. Only once did I meet a girl’s dad. A root canal had more appeal. Perhaps the other dads were too embarrassed to meet me, or felt awkward counseling their daughters. I want to advise Kate about dating. Not all boys are bad. I’m sure a few young men with strong morals roam campus. The problem is that strong morals can lose out to hormonally charged reproductive organs.

I considered banishing Kate to her room, covering the house with barbwire, or setting traps near windows. But that’s infeasible.

For one, kids need freedom. Two, I’m not a skilled handyman, and

three, traps require maintenance. Plus, if I caught a boy, what do I do with him?

I decided to engage this modern day dating dilemma metaphorically. Kids’ exposure to dating, whether through TV or social media, is a different concept than when I was in high school.

These media are loaded with sexual content and innuendo.

Kate and I often ski together which gives us time to talk.

The message she needs to hear is that intimate physical contact can have more bumps and slips than a ski run. The aftermath of a break-up is a thousand times more painful to the heart and mind than any fall on a ski hill. My heart ached when Shelly Snodgrass dumped me for a senior, Sammy Schnitzel. They flaunted their love on campus, while I powerlessly sank into despair.

Kate will not understand now, any more than I did back then, that she’s too young to think about mate choice. My advice to her is to become friends with boys, enjoy their company, but to keep her hands in her pockets to protect her heart.

I wish I had control over Kate’s daily environment, but the reality is that I don’t. If you are one who thinks you can control anything, you are deceived. Try holding a cat over a filled bathtub.

So, parents, talk with your kids, meet their dates, and repeat this cycle like it was the movie, Groundhog Day. Maintain honest communication. Their biological clocks will not stop unless we perform surgery on them. But I’m sure there are laws against that.

A New York Times article reports that the choosiness of females has gradually declined over evolutionary time. I am unsure how that translates to me, but when it comes to Kate, I strive to keep our communication open. Setting boundaries early on will set the stage for her success; and she will be a success.

I offer these nine dating principles you can use to facilitate awkward and amusing discussions with your teenagers (See below: Nine Dating Principles). Loosen or tighten them as you see fit. Have a conversation you’ll never forget. Good luck.

Nine Dating Principles:

Dating Contract 1. I/Dad will meet all proposed dates beforehand.

2. Stand firm on your beliefs and morals.

3. Keep your priorities in line: your beliefs, family, school, friendships, activities. No behind-the-scenes dates. We need to know where you are and what you are up to.

4. Keep an open communication with Mom and me so we can help you be the best you can be.

5. Slow movement of relationship: Let the relationship grow in its own time.

6. Make decisions based on what is best for you and not based solely on the relationship.

7. Just because it is okay with a boyfriend’s/ girlfriend’s parents to do something does not mean it is okay with us. If he/she has different morals, stop the relationship. This is difficult and will result with hurt feelings, but it must happen.

8. No inappropriate physical contact, texting, or Facebook posts. No public displays of affection. No passionate kissing. Modest hugging and hand holding is okay.

9. No texting after 10 PM. Curfew is 11 PM unless you clear it with us in advance.

I agree with these principles and will uphold them to the best of my ability.

Signed, Dad/ Daughter/Son

X_______________________________________

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growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

women in business

Women In Business 2014

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growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

women in business

Women In Business 2014, Cont.

Valley Oaks Children’s Services oers workshops for Parents and Child Care Professionals on a variety of topics.

For a workshop calendar call or visit our website.

growing up greener www.growingupchico.com

Greener Spring Cleaning It’s the season for spring cleaning, and Growing Up Chico is all for reducing clutter, minimizing messes and scrubbing our homes to a shine.

However, using typical household cleaners to get the job done may not be the best idea. Typical store-bought cleaners almost always contain harmful and toxic chemicals that are not only very damaging to the environment, but they can be downright harmful to your health. Asthma and other breathing disorders, as well as cancer and central nervous system illnesses, have all been linked to exposure to some of the chemicals commonly found in typical household cleaners purchased and used by millions of Americans each year.

A few companies offering great natural cleaning options include: Method is a company devoted to creating a wide variety of safe, non-toxic products derived from natural materials like soy, coconut and

palm oils. We love that their company is committed to the environment as well. They reduce CO2 emissions from employee commute and travel by purchasing carbon offsets and using recyclable materials for packaging and bottles. A 25 ounce bottle of their all-purpose cleaner is available in five scents including French lavender, cucumber and winter berry (http://www.methodhome.com).

Dr. Bronner’s offers a line of fair trade liquid and hand soaps that are completely biodegradable and vegetable based. They are all made with certified fair trade and organic oils. Their Sal Suds all purpose hard surface cleaner ($16.99 for 32 ounces) will cleanse any surface while being gentle on the skin ( http://www.drbronner.com/DBMS/LS.htm).

Mrs. Myers is known as a line of “aroma-therapeutic household cleaners.” All products are made from naturally derived or safe synthetic ingredients and are biodegradable. Mrs. Myers products are also cruelty free and are never tested on animals. You can search for products on their website by fragrance or by cleaning type. A 16 ounce bottle of lemon verbena countertop spray costs $3.99 and a 32 ounce bottle of lavender all-purpose cleaner costs only $7.99, so the prices of these products are reasonable. (http://www.mrsmeyers.com/)

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Seventh Generation suggests that you not to use bleach, or bleach-based or scented cleansers, use white vinegar for cleaning the

non-carpeted floors, and Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner for everything else. Use rags and sponges so you don’t need paper towels and you are doing a lot to be greener. By increasing the plant-based content of their ingredients, Seventh Generation has achieved USDA BioPreferred Certification for all 74 of their eligible products (www.seventhgeneration.com).

Ecover is an international company committed to the production of ecological cleaners. One example of this company’s dedication to the environment is the building of their ecological factory in 1992, which includes a 10,800 square-foot grass (sedum) roof. Ecover’s cleaning products are plant based, biodegradable, economical, are not tested on animals, and have a minimum impact on marine life.

Bottles and caps are 100% recyclable. All-Purpose Cleaner 2-packss can be purchased for $9.99 (www.ecover.com).

Simple Green is biodegradable, non-toxic, non-flammable, non-abrasive, and has been around for over 30 years. The proof of their commitment to the environment comes not only in the safe cleaning products, but in their packaging as well, which is made of 100% recyclable PETE plastic bottles with 25%+ post-consumer content, printed with soy inks. These products are very affordable as well. For example, a 32 ounce bottle of Natural’s glass and surface cleaner in rosemary mint scent costs only $3.99 (http://www.simplegreen.com/).

Make Your Own Natural Cleaning Products at Home!

If you want to avoid toxic chemicals and save some money as well, consider making some of your household cleaning products yourself! Using just a few safe ingredients usually found in the home, anyone can make a wide variety of great cleaning products using these recipes from Mother Earth News.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Magic Window Wash

General Purpose Spray

What You Need:

What You Need:

What You Need:

• 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar • 2 cups water • Makes 2 1/4 cups

Directions:

1. Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle 2. Shake 3. Spray along the inside rim of the toilet 4. Leave on for 15 minutes 5. Scrub with a toilet brush

Soap Scum Fighting Spray What You Need:

• 1 teaspoon borax • 1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent • 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar • 2 cups hot water • Makes 2 1/4 cups

Directions:

1. Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle 2. Shake to blend 3. Spray 4. Follow with a sponge 5. Rinse 6. Repeat

• 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar • 1/2 teaspoon liquid soap or detergent • 2 cups water • A few drops of essential oils, (optional) • Makes 2 1/4 cups

Directions:

1. Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle 2. Shake to blend 3. Spray on surface 4. Remove with a squeegee, paper towel or newspaper

Dish Soap What You Need:

• 1 ounce liquid castile soap • 2 cups water • 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin • 5 to 10 drops lavender essential oil (Optional- lavender is antibacterial)

• 1/4 cup of white distilled vinegar • 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda • 1 teaspoon liquid soap • 16 oz spray bottle

Directions:

1. Top your bottle off with hot water 2. Shake well before each use

Scouring Paste What You Need:

• 16oz of baking soda • 2 tablespoons liquid soap • One cup of warm water

Directions:

1. Mix well 2. Store the mixture in a sealed container

Directions:

1. Combine the soap and water in a jar 2. Add the glycerin and lavender (if using) 3. Stir to blend 4. Use as you would any other cleaner

Thanks to the “Green Revolution”

Thanks to the green revolution that has been taking place recently, consumers are lucky to have many options available to clean their homes without sacrificing the environment or their health. On another exciting note, these modern green cleaning options also do not sacrifice cleaning strength at all! These cleaners get the job done just as efficiently as their much more toxic and harmful versions.

GreenCupboards finds the “greenest” and most effective products and conveniently bundles them in what they call “Cupboards.” All of the products have been tested and certified on the basis of five criteria: ingredients, toxicity, efficacy, manufacturing processes and packaging. (www.greencupboards.com)

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

resource pages

For New Moms!

Babies Love Books “lapsits” Babies 0-18 months and parents will enjoy connection through rhymes, songs, and books designed especially for them! Free! Every Wednesday, 9:30am and 10:30am, Chico Library, www.buttecounty.net/library.

Better Babies Services include private appointments, health education, nutritional information, childbirth classes, breastfeeding and baby care.

Individual support, counseling and support groups. 578 Rio Lindo Ave., Ste 100, 894-5585.

www.growingupchico.com

Enloe’s Mother & Baby Education Center Offering a full & rich education program which offers before baby, safety and parenting classes.

Enloe’s Mother & Baby Breastfeeding Support Services: We offer lactation assistance before and after the birth of your baby. Staffed by an International Certified Lactation Consultant who provides consultation appointments 5 days a week. Call 332-3972 for an appointment or for more information.

La Leche League

La Leche League offers mother-to-mother support for breastfeeding. Children welcome.

First Friday of every month, 10am-11:30am.

Free. Find them on Facebook to find support between meetings. Bidwell Presbyterian Church in the Church nursery, 208 West First St. 591-9191. Another group meets the third Tuesday of each month from 1011:30. Meetings are held in private homes and locations change periodically. Please call 514-1313 for Tuesday meeting information.

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Mom2Mom Support group sponsored by Feather River Healthy Mothers every Thursday from 10:30am-12pm. Topics include: breastfeeding, first foods, baby wearing, cloth diapering, natural parenting, returning to work, infant development and much more!

876-2518.

Sunny Garden Montessori Ongoing play groups for parents and babies. Adults will share parenting strategies and techniques in a beautiful warm facility. 343-3101 www.sunnygardenmontessori.com Women’s Resource Clinic www.womensresourceclinic.org Exists to help women, mothers & babies of this community in difficult times. We are a free pregnancy-crisis clinic. We also provide free baby clothes, maternity clothes, diapers, wipes and baby furniture. 897-6101.

Parenting Resources Adoptive Parent Support Group Join us in sharing, learning, and supporting each other with the joys & challenges of adoption. First Monday of the month, 7-9pm, 520 Cohasset Road.

879-3861 Butte College Foster/Kinship Education Free workshops & trainings for parents, foster parents, and relative caregivers. For more info and a current workshop schedule, call 897-6235.

Butte County Mothers of Multiples We are here to provide mutual support and guidance to meet the special challenge of parenting two, three or more children born together. For more info call 899-1538 or at: www.buttecountymoms.com.

Chico Homeschoolers We are a local homeschooling group and support network. We are a fully inclusive group and all homeschoolers are welcome. We have weekly park days, regular field trips, and teen gatherings.

Membership is free. http://groups.yahoo.co m/group/chicohomeschoolers/ Chico Mothers Club The member-run, non-profit organization supports mothers of young children by organizing activities, playgroups, community involvement and much more.

Find them on faceboook or go to www.chicomothersclub.org for more info.

Enloe Mother & Baby Outreach Program At Enloe’s Mother & Baby Outreach Program, many parenting the infant classes are offered, such as Bittie and Bigger Baby and Me, Infant Massage, and Infant-Pediatric CPR. In addition, we offer breastfeeding support, services and a clinic that helps mothers and babies establish and maintain breastfeeding, before, during and after the birth.

332-5520 or online at www.enloe.org/baby.

MOMS (Making Our Mothering Significant) We invite you to join us every 1st and 3rd Thursday of September–May at MOMS. A time for moms to meet, learn, share and grow together! All denominations and affiliations welcome. EVFree Church of Chico, 1193 Filbert Ave,9am-11:30am, Childcare available up to age 6. www.Facebook. com/MOMSofChico, 343-6022 Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) For mothers of infants through kindergarten-age.

Grace Community Church. Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. 2346 Floral Ave, Chico.

343-5528 ex35 Free Childcare.

Parent Infant Programs A developmental program designed for children diagnosed at birth with a regional center qualifying condition or children at risk of developing those qualifying conditions. 247-1375, www.parentinfantprograms.com OPT for Fit Kids A community based program that encourages people of all ages to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Services include group and individual family-based nutrition education and nutrition education classes. 1311 Mangrove Ave, Suite E, 345-0678. www.optforfitkids.org Sacred Beginnings Offers childbirth preparation classes, pre & postnatal yoga, & yoga with toddlers & crawlers. www.sacredbeginnings.org 321-6477.

Sunny Garden Montessori Ongoing play groups for babies and toddlers age 0 months to 36 months! Classes designed for the 3, 4, and 5 year olds and their parents! We will meet one time a week for one and one-half hour! Children will meet new friends and adults will share parenting strategies and techniques in a beautiful warm facility.

343-3101 www.sunnygardenmontessori.com.

Enloe’s Bittie Baby & Me Bittie Baby & Me and Bigger Baby & Me parenting series. At the Mother & Baby Education Center, 251 Cohasset Road, Suite #120. Call 332-3970 for more information or to register.

Teen Parent Support Group Support group about health and nutrition for teen parents and parents-to-be. Third Thursday of the month at 2:30pm. WIC Office, 1311 Mangrove Ave. Suite E. 891-2767

Feather River Hospital We offer education, participation and emotional support for all members of the expectant family.

Offering many parent and childbirth education classes such as: Pregnancy Education Series, Baby Steps-First Year Parenting, Infant CPR, Cesarean Refresher, Pregnancy Yoga, Sibling Preparation, Breastfeeding and more! Please call 876-2518, or go to www.frhosp.org for more information.

Valley Oak Children’s Services A Resource and Referral Program that provides free referrals to child care and other family-related services. Low Income parents can call and get on the Centralized Eligibility List for preschool and subsidized child care in Butte County. Community members are invited to use the Resource Library at no cost. Call 895-3572 or 1-800-345-8627 or visit valleyoakchildren.org for more information.

Free Tutoring All grades, all subjects. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-6:30pm, CSU Chico campus, Bell Memorial Union 309, call 898-5817 for more information.

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

Services are available to clients who are at risk for nutritional deficiencies and who meet financial guidelines. Parent education about nutrition, breastfeeding, child safety, growth/development and other child-appropriate topics is provided by the WIC staff. 891-2767, fns.usda.gov/wic/

Grandparents as Parents Support group that helps grandparents and other family caregivers. Chico: First Thursday of month, 11:30-1:30pm. 2491 Carmichael Drive, Suite 300.

Paradise: First Thursday of month 6-9pm at Family Resource Center on Skyway. 897-6235

Family Destinations The Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation The Wildlife Foundation is home to a remarkable variety of non-releasable, endangered, and exotic live animals. Hours of Operation: 7 days a week by appointment, 9am - 5pm. Donations Welcome! Call 345-1700 or visit them online at www.kirshner.org.

Bidwell Mansion Learn about Chico’s rich history with a guided tour of this 1860’s Mansion. The Visitor Center is open Sat-Mon. Hours: Sat and Sun from 11:00am–5:00 pm; Mon. 12:00–5:00 pm. Guided tours are available on the hour-the last tour is at 4:00 pm each day. Cost: $6 per adult; $3 children 5 -17, and children under 5 are free. 525 Esplanade, Chico. 895-6144 Book Family Farm Fun, Educational, Year Round Field Trips & Tours, Grass-Fed Meats, Pumpkin Patch. For up to date info “like us” on Facebook bookfamilyfarm.net, bookfamilyfarm@gmail.com Chico Creek Nature Center The Chico Creek Nature Center operates as a natural history museum, nature center, and information center of Bidwell Park, and offers educational programs for students, weekend hikes, and nature activities for the public.

Donation requested. 891-4671 Chico Community Observatory Providing access to our universe through its telescopes for the enjoyment and education of the youth of this community. Winter hours: F-Su 6-9pm. Summer hours: W-Su from sunset to 3 hours after. Open 11am -1pm Sundays for solar viewing. In Upper Bidwell Park. 343-5635. www.chicoobservatory.com.

Chico Museum The Chico Museum celebrates the unique identity of Chico by presenting locally relevant exhibits that explore our past, illuminate the present and imagine the future. Open Wednesday-Sunday, noon-4pm; Donations greatly appreciated. Located at Second and Salem Streets, Downtown Chico. Phone 8914336, or visit www.chicomuseum.org.

The Gateway Science Museum Designed to create a life-long learning environment that enables visitors to explore, interpret, and celebrate the magnificent natural heritage of Northern California through science, research and education. For more information, visit the Gateway Science Museum Web site: http://www.GatewayScience.org/.

Gold Nugget Museum Learn about and become a part of the history of the Ridge! There are many hands-on events, such as the Days of Living History, which the entire family can participate in. 502 Pearson Road, Paradise. 872-8722. goldnuggetmuseum@ aol.com.

Home At Last Equine Sanctuary Lots of critters to meet. homeatlastsanctuary@ gmail.com.

Museum of Anthropology The museum is committed to the collection, protection, and interpretation of ethnographic material culture & to share this with the community through its educational programs.

Please call 898-5397 to arrange a tour.

Stansbury Home Built by Dr. & Mrs. Oscar Stansbury in 1883, this home was designed in the Italianate Victorian style, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 307 West 5th St. 895-3848.

Sat & Sun 1-4pm. Adults $2; Students $1, Under 10 Free.

Patrick Ranch Museum An Interactive Agricultural and Natural History Learning Center. Offering educational field trips too. 10381 Midway, Chico. Call for hours 3424359, www.patrickranchmuseum.org.

Just for Kids Chico Public Library Storytimes Preschool Storytime for 3-5 year olds, stories, songs & craft Tuesdays 10am and 11am. Babies Love Books 0-18 months stories, songs & bounces Wednesdays 9:30am and 10:30am. Toddler Story time for 1-3 year olds, stories, songs & action rhymes Fri-10am and 11am. Please call for more information on Japanese Story time, Spanish Story time, Chinese Story time, Homework help group, and Chess Club. 891-2762, www.buttecounty.net/ library.

Barnes & Noble Storytime Enjoy some fun stories, from treasured classics to new adventures. Wednesdays 11am, Saturdays 2pm. 894-1494 Boys & Girls Club of Chico The Boys & Girls Club of Chico, the positive place for kids and teens ages 6 to 18, offers a variety of walk-in, facility programs Monday through Friday. $10 per year. 899-0335 KZFR Storytelling for Kids Kids of all ages can enjoy a variety of fascinating storytelling by tuning in to 90.1 FM radio in Chico. M-F, 7-7:30pm. 895-0706.

Yo-Yo Fun! Come learn new tricks, show off your skill, & win great prizes. Bird in Hand in Downtown Chico.

Saturdays at noon. 893-0545

Handi-Riders Therapeutic Riding Center Handi-Riders has been offering a safe and enjoyable equine experience for special needs children ages three and up for over 30 years.

We provide a place where our students can meet their challenges and enjoy the physical, developmental and emotional benefits they gain by participating in our therapeutic horseback riding program. Visit our website: www.handiriders.org or call 533-5333.

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

Recreation & Dreams for Kids w/Cancer Children with cancer & their families are invited to attend this support group providing free monthly recreational opportunities. 332-3171 Rowell Family Empowerment of Northern California We provide support, education, and advocacy services to families with children ages birth to 26 with special education needs living in Northern California. For information on trainings and support groups, please call the Chico office at (530)899-8801 and toll free 888-263-1311 or www.rfenc.org. Hablamos Español.

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

Learn more about a disease or disorder affecting a family member, research a medical diagnosis or find wellness information. A free library card gives you access to health care information through books, periodicals, Internet access, multimedia resources and more. Web site in English and Spanish. www.enloe.org/library.

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

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

107.

Chico Cheer All Stars Inc. -Stars We are proud to join over 170 other All Star Gyms throughout the USA in offering Butte County’s ONLY Special Needs Cheerleading Team! The STARS cheer program is open to children and young adults, boys and girls, ages 5 yrs & up. It builds social interaction in a TeamOriented, Positive Environment. Build Self-Esteem, Motivation, Work Ethic, and Sense of Belonging and Accomplishment. Practice cognitive skills with dance, formations, tumbling, and timing exercises. Your child will enjoy a fun energetic workout! We look forward to the opportunity to build a community where everyone is an ALL STAR! 894-2227, ChicoAllStars@aol.com, www.

ChicoCheerAllStars.com.

HelpCentral.org Need help finding services in Butte County? Here you will find a comprehensive listing of low cost and no cost health and human services. You can find services such as emergency food, parenting classes, recreational programs, support groups, drug treatment, tax assistance, in-home help, after school programs, hospice, counseling, and subsidized day care. www.helpcentral.org Butte County Library Get access to some great library resources... without leaving your house! There are links for Teens and for Kids, too! Younger children can even have books read to them on their computer. www.buttecounty.net/bclibrary/

Have a resource for us?

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

Email us: info@growingupchico.com

events calendar events calendar

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. Cal Skate, 343-1601.

Sunny Garden Montessori Mommy and Me Playgroups:

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

Free Art Classes at The Turner:

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

The very popular ‘For Kids at the Turner’ resumes on Wednesdays after-school this spring with free weekly art workshops throughout the semester at the Janet Turner Print Museum at Chico State. Open to students grades 4-12, each workshop is supervised by Dr. Teresa Cotner of the Department of Art and Art History. Each session will feature a different art project related to the exhibitions at The Turner. Drawing and mixed art media will be incorporated. Must pre register. For more information see www.theturner.org.

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

Chico Museum:

Open Wednesday - Sunday, noon to 4pm; donations gladly appreciated. The Chico Museum is proud to present our current exhibit, ”Chico in Black and White, Historical Pictures from the John Nopel Collection”. Watch for these upcoming exhibits at the Chico Museum: Opening February 12th, “Reverie….

Interpretations of Nature by Dennis Leon”, a wonderful exhibit of pastel drawings, paintings and sculpture by renowned artist Dennis Leon. Coming this Spring, “Mik Cupu Dy: This is our home, here we remain”, the story of the Mechoopda people.

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. All children walking to 5 years old. Contact for more information 893-4967 or www.athletichorizons.com.

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

Chico Creek Nature Center:

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

La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Group:

La Leche League offers mother-to-mother support for breastfeeding. Children welcome. First Friday of every month, 10am-11:30am. Free. Find them on Facebook to find support between meetings. Bidwell Presbyterian Church in the Church nursery, 208 West First St. 591-9191. Another group meets the third Tuesday of each month from 10-11:30.

Meetings are held in private homes and locations change periodically. Please call 514-1313 for Tuesday meeting information.

Rowell’s Pals Playgroup:

A diverse playgroup for parents & little ones ages 1-5, of all abilities. Come sing, dance, read & play. 10-11am, Fridays. Free, pre-reg encouraged. Rowell Family Empowerment of N. CA, 3075 Cohasset Rd., #2. 8998801.

Childbirth Preparation: 5-week series taught by highly trained registered nurse

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

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

Chapman Food And Fitness Festival: Every Friday from 2–5:30p.m. at 1010 Cleveland Ave. This event is a certified farmers’ market as well as a health forum, and it takes place all year. For more information call 624-8844 or visit www.cChaos.org.

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

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

Our 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.

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Sliver Dollar BMX: First race is FREE for those looking to try something new here in Chico! We have racers as young as 3 years old-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.

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.

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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.

Chico Air Museum:

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. Janet@chicoartschool.com or find them on facebook: www. facebook.com/ChicoArtSchoolandGallery.

Home Depot Kids Workshops: Chico & Oroville. Hands-on building workshop

Book Family Farm: Fun, Educational, Year Round Field Trips & Tours, and Grass-Fed Meats. For up to date info “like us” on Facebook. bookfamilyfarm.net, bookfamilyfarm@gmail.com

The Chico Air Museum is located at the Chico Municipal Airport. This museum features air exhibits that are fun for the whole family! Open every Saturday from 10am-4pm. FREE! 147 Convair Court, 345-6468.

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

Open Playgroup:

Lowe’s Build and Grow Workshops:

Free kids clinic every Saturday at 10am. Must pre register at, www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Held at Discovery Place Child Development Center every the second and forth Friday from 9:30 to 11:30. Please contact for dates. 899-8168, www.discoveryplacechico.com.

Butte County Library:

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.

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, After school Homework help group, 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.

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

Chico School of Rock Open Mic: Every 4th Friday of the Month, Open to all performers, all ages and abilities, 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Located at Chico School of Rock, 932 W. 8th Avenue. Please call 894-2526 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 for more info, 898-9753, www.chicodojo.com.

Thursday Night Farmers Market:

Explore Downtown Chico’s Thursday Night Market Weekly, April 3rd through September 25th, 2014~ 6-9pm on Broadway from 2nd to 5th Street. Farm-fresh produce, delicious food, arts and crafts, and live entertainment!

Located on Broadway from 2nd to 5th Streets, the area is closed to vehicle traffic to allow for the festivities. Authentic crafts and artwork, handmade clothing and jewelry, mouth-watering foods, personal services and community organizations are just some of what you’ll find. Plus, certified farmers offer the season’s freshest assortments of fruits & vegetables, flowers, nuts & honeys, and more. A diverse selection of local musicians and entertainers showcase their talents each week. www.downtownchico.com

Museum of Northern California Art (monca) Showcase

A special focus on people & places of Chico. Held from February 21st - March 14th at the Chico Arts Center. 450 Orange Street. Open 10 - 4 every day. Opening reception Friday, February 21st from 5 - 7 pm. Please call 895-8726 for information. This exhibit will be multimedia and of interest to all ages. Art and history/social studies class field trips are welcome to visit.

Chico Doula Circle:

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

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

February Fiddler on the Roof January 29th - February 9th

This Classic Favorite will perform at the Center for the Arts for three weekends featuring a Live Orchestra and Large Cast! Rich in historical and ethnic detail, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF has touched audiences around the world with its humor, warmth and honesty. The universal theme of tradition cuts across barriers of race, class, nationality and religion, leaving audiences crying tears of laughter, joy and sadness. www.crtshows.com for tickets and show times.

Chico Performances Presents Béla Fleck & Brooklyn Rider Thursday, February 6th

Béla Fleck, one of the world’s leading banjo players, teams with Brooklyn Rider, a new music string quartet. In a stunningly imaginative performance, these talented musicians come together in an evening of contemporary stringed sounds. Collaborative, imaginative, and adventurous! For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com, or call 898-6333.

TAO: Phoenix Rising Friday, February 7th

Athletic bodies and dramatic costumes meet explosive Taiko drumming and innovative choreography in a show that combines extraordinary precision, energy, and stamina.

Heart- stopping percussion beats and nonstop action create an evening of pure adrenaline! Held at Laxson Auditorium. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com, or call 898-6333.

Super Spiders Preschool Program Saturday, February 8th

Eight eyed, eight legged, wall climbing, web spinning; spiders are everywhere! What are some of the skills that make them so super and why are they so great to have around?

We’ll walk around the Nature Center to see where spiders live, make a spider craft, and meet Ellie, our friendly tarantula. Only $12 per child and a parent! Call 891-4671 to register. 11:00am - 12:00pm, Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th St.

Lonestar Sunday, February 8th

Lonestar, country rock band and CMA Vocal Group of the Year, has ten No.1 country hits, a Billboard No.1 album, and AMC awards for Single and Song of the Year. Country fans will love this special 20th Anniversary performance! Held at Laxson Auditorium. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com, or call 898-6333.

True Blues - History of the Blues Thursday, February 13th

Based on the film of the same name, True Blues chronicles the extraordinary living culture of the blues in an evening of music and conversation with host Corey Harris and guitar masters Guy Davis and Alvin Youngblood Hart. Held at Laxson Auditorium. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com, or call 898-6333.

Camp Chico Creek Valentine’s Day/Parents’ Night Out! Friday, February 14th

7:45am-5:30pm day session AND/OR 4:00pm-10:00pm evening session. $35 day session, $20 evening session, $55 both sessions. Bring back the magic of summer camp with our holiday camps! Camp Chico Creek is an environmental education-based day camp for children 5 to 11 years old. The programs are designed to provide outdoor recreation activities and foster awareness of nature in a fun, safe and caring setting.

Themes covering Park habitats and their natural and cultural histories are presented to the campers during each session. Call 891-4671 for more information. Chico Creek Nature Center.

15th Annual Valentines Gala Friday, February 14th

The Valentine’s Gala is the premiere fundraising event for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the North Valley. This spectacular black tie optional evening is a special night to celebrate our youth and our Clubs. www.bgcnv.org

Antique Show Friday, February 14th - Sunday, February 16th

Butte County Sheriff’s Posse Antique Show held at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds.

5th Annual Habitat Home Run 5K Saturday, February 15th

The Habitat Home Run 5K will help promote affordable housing for low income families with all proceeds benefiting Habitat for Humanity of Butte County (HFHBC). Go to www. raceplanner.com/register/info/Habitat_Home_Run for more information and to register.

Winter Owl Prowl Saturday, February 15th

Please call 891-4671 to register. Held at the Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th St,

North State Symphony: An Embrace of Romantic Masters Sunday, February 16th

The story of star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet deeply affects everyone who hears it.

And some of the world’s greatest music including pieces by Prokofiev, Tchaikovsky, and others — was inspired by their story of broken hearts and bloodshed. Held at Laxson Auditorium. For more info go to: www.northstatesymphony.com

Camp Chico Creek Washington’s Birthday Monday, February 17th

7:45am - 5:30pm. Bring back the magic of summer camp with our holiday camps!

Camp Chico Creek is an environmental education-based day camp for children 5 to 11 years old. The programs are designed to provide outdoor recreation activities and foster awareness of nature in a fun, safe and caring setting. Themes covering Park habitats and their natural and cultural histories are presented to the campers during each session.

Call 891-4671 for more information. Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th Street.

The Graduate Thursday, February 20th

The classic American satire-comedy The Graduate is staged as a live radio broadcast by America’s premier radio theater company, L.A. Theater Works. Theatre Works features a first-rate cast and live sound effects. Held at Laxson Auditorium. For tickets go to www. chicoperformances.com, or call 898-6333.

Nature Detectives Preschool Program Thursday, February 20th

3:00pm - 4:00pm. For the curious kid, nature is full of wonder. Who made those footprints? Who lives under that rock? We’ll go out with our magnifying glasses and see what we can spy, make a craft, and meet one of our animals up-close! Only $12 per child and a parent. Call 891-4671 to register! Chico Creek Nature Center 1968 E. 8th Street.

Carlos Nuñez Sunday, February 23rd

Carlos Nuñez is one of Spain’s most recognizable musicians and a major force behind the bagpipes’ resurrection in popular music today. Nuñez and his band blast through Celtic/ Latin tunes with high energy, precision and style. Held at Laxson Auditorium. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com, or call 898-6333.

The Manhattan Transfer Wednesday, February 23rd

The Manhattan Transfer made history in 1981, winning Grammys in both the jazz and pop categories. Held at Laxson Auditorium. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances. com, or call 898-6333.

New Music Symposium: Student Composers Thursday, February 26th

Don’t miss this highlight of the season, an evening of original music from student composers and musicians. For more info please go to: www.schoolofthearts-csuchico. com.

events article calendar title events calendar www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

Amazing Amphibians Preschool Program Friday, February 28th

Mammals in the Dark Night Hike Saturday, March 15th

Kids Open Mic Friday, February 28th

Nord Country School’s 9th Annual Pie Auction and Dinner Sunday, March 16th

In this program, children will learn about the special lifestyle of this group of animals that has outlived the dinosaurs. We will go for a short walk to see who’s living in our pond and under logs around the Center, make our own clay salamanders, and meet Hubert our friendly toad up-close! Perfect for ages 3 to 5 years old, and only $12 per child and a parent! Call 891-4671 to register. 11-12pm, Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th St.

Open to all performers, all ages and abilities, 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Located at Chico School of Rock, 932 W. 8th Avenue. Please call 894-2526 for more info

March

Earliest Inhabitants of the North Valley Focus of Spring Opening at the Patrick Ranch Museum Saturday, March 1st Starting at 11am, the Patrick Ranch Museum will kick off a year of education, unique Saturday programs and grand family events. The first program will focus on the local Native American story adeptly told and intertwined with replica and original artifacts.

The presentation is age appropriate for second grade students and above and for their parents and grandparents. Activities tailored to the younger children will be available! The second focus of the program will be on the Maidu Rancheria that was once located on what would become Patrick land about two miles south of Chico.

This site is thought to have been occupied between AD 1400 and 1800! A film will be shown of the first Native American “dig” in Butte County - the “dig” at the “Patrick Site”! The film features students at work and images of recovered artifacts and of Hester and Garrison Patrick. For the first time in decades, actual recovered artifacts from the “Patrick Site,” will be displayed for all to study. This “must see” historic presentation will offer visitors a first-hand glimpse of the earliest inhabitants of the north valley! The museum will be open every Saturday from 11am to 3pm through October.

Educational outreach outdoor programs are offered to area elementary students in the Spring, Summer and Fall. For more information visit www.patrickmuseum.org or call the office mornings Tuesday through Friday at 342-4359.

Herp Hunt Saturday, March 1st

10:00am - 11:30am at the Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th St. Please call 8914671 or info@bidwellpark.org to register. Join Naturalist Jon Aull for his early Spring Herp Hunt! Discover what reptiles and amphibians are hiding throughout Bidwell Park! $10 Suggested Donation.

This Way to Sustainability Conference-Sherwood Montessori School Garden Kitchen Program Thursday, March 6th

Richie Hirshen, Michelle Yezbick, and John Howlett from Sherwood Montessori Charter School will discuss Sherwood Montessori’s K-8 Garden and Kitchen Program. These three Montessorian educators will be sharing their experience over the past four school years with anyone interested in supporting, starting or expanding their own school garden-kitchen program. Held in the BMU on the CSUC campus from 9-9:50pm, www. csuchico.edu/sustainablefuture/conference.

First Friday on the Farm Friday, March 7th

An invitation for preschoolers and their parents to join in the fun at Wood Family Farm Preschool for free. There will be plenty of opportunities to learn through our play as we take care of the animals, work in the garden and enjoy life on the farm. Space is limited, so please call to reserve your spot 343-7120.

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Spring Fling Silent Auction & Dinner Friday, March 7th

Sierra Nevada’s Big Room from 5:30-10:30 PM. Dinner, Dancing, Silent Auction and Raffle Extravaganza! All proceeds go directly back into the classrooms at Hooker Oak Open Structure Elementary School. For tickets and more information please go to: www. chicospringfling.com

Keeping Dance Alive Friday and Saturday, March 7th and 8th

Keeping Dance Alive! celebrates the diversity of dance and the talents of the North Valley’s finest dancers, choreographers, and musicians with ballet, hip-hop, modern jazz, belly dance, tap, Irish, contemporary, and more! Held at Laxson Auditorium. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com, or call 898-6333.

Rain, Rain, Come and Play Preschool Program Saturday, March 8th

11:00am - 12:00pm at the Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th St. $12 per child.

Just like people, some animals prefer the rain much more than others! What animals like to come out when it’s raining? What makes the rain so good for the Park? Come and learn why rain is so important, make a cool craft, and meet some of our rain-loving animals! Perfect for ages 3 to 5 years old. Call 891-4671 to register.

6:00pm - 8:00pm at the Chico Creek Nature Center 1968 E. 8th St. $10 Suggested Donation. Most of the mammals living in Bidwell Park don’t begin their day until the sun goes down. Once darkness arrives, the mammals take over. The park at night is full of furry and ferocious critters. Join us for a hike through the park to search for tracks, scat, and other signs of mammal activity! Call 891-4671 to register, spaces are limited.

This fun and exciting evening features, the famous tri-tip dinner with all the trimmings.

During the main event the auctioneer auctions off homemade pies made with love for this special occasion by local folks. The Pie Auction continues to be Nord country School’s primary fundraiser and we rely on it to provide funds for much needed capital improvements, our library, P.E., & music programs. For more information, please call the school at 891-3138.

The Colossal Colon Sunday, March 16th

“Coco,” as the Colossal Colon® is affectionately known, is a 40-foot long, 4-foot tall oversized model of the human colon that is designed to educate about colorectal cancer and other diseases of the colon. Visitors who crawl through the Colossal Colon will see Crohn’s disease, diverticulosis, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids, cancerous and non-cancerous polyps, and various stages of colon cancer. The Colon Club’s goal is to educate younger people about colorectal cancer, and the Colossal Colon® is the perfect educational tool to do just that. Coco gets everyone talking about colorectal cancer, which is one of the first steps in eliminating it. Adults and children alike can crawl through or look through windows to check out the various features inside Coco.

Held at the Feather River Hospital Outpatient Surgery Center located on the main campus. The exhibit will be open on Sunday, March 16th and we can accommodate school groups on Monday, March 17th. Call 876-7208 for more information about this exciting, educational event.

Spring Camp Chico Creek Monday, March 17th - Friday, March 21st

7:45am - 5:30pm Mon - Fri at the Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th St. $35 per child per day. Bring back the magic of summer camp with our holiday camps!

Camp Chico Creek is an environmental education-based day camp for children 5 to 11 years old. The programs are designed to provide outdoor recreation activities and foster awareness of nature in a fun, safe and caring setting. Call 891-4671 for more information.

Spring Break Camp at the Chico Bullpen Baseball Academy Tuesday, March 18th - Thursday, March 20th

Come enjoy the Chico Bullpen Camp in the new 10,500 sq ft. Baseball Facility.

The Bullpen offers 7 cages, three pitching machines, and tee/soft toss area. Camp participants will enhance their baseball skills through in-depth and positive instruction from the Chico Bullpen staff. For more info, www.chicobullpenba.com or 230-2100.

Friends with Feathers Preschool Program Thursday, March 20th

3:00pm - 4:00pm at CCNC, 1968 E. 8th St. $12 per child. Birds are some of our most easily seen wildlife, coming to visit our own backyards. Why are there so many kinds of birds? Why so many shapes and sizes of beaks? Why all those funny feet? In this program, we’ll answer those questions, take a walk in beautiful Bidwell Park, make a heron beak mask, and meet one of the Nature Center’s friendly animals! Perfect for ages 3 to 5, call (530) 891-4671 to register.

North State Symphony: Gala Fundraiser Friday, March 21st

Enjoy a delicious dinner, live entertainment, and the company of Chico’s finest folks: supporters of the North State Symphony and Guild. This year’s annual gala dinner will have new surprises and fun. Visit www.northstatesymphony.com for more information.

Chico Kite Day Sunday, March 23rd

Bring the entire family for this free family event. Experience the color and excitement of kite flying during the Annual Chico Kite Day. An afternoon of fun is in the air! There will be prizes for the best homemade kites! Celebrate spring at the end of a string! www.chicorec.com

Diavolo Tuesday, March 25th

The gymnasts and dancers of Diavolo evoke playfulness in all they do as they manipulate, tumble, climb, and catapult with ease from oversize sets and props, combining skill and imagery with silliness, trickery, and effortless movement. Held at Laxson Auditorium. For tickets go to www.chicoperformances.com, or call 898-6333.

History Lecture: Tudor Memories Wednesday, March 26th

“Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived.” Join Jason Nice, History, and explore the curious representations of the Tudors, especially Henry VIII, as they have evolved over the centuries at the famous palace of kings, queens, and courtesans. Visit www.schoolofthearts-csuchico.com for more information. Rowland-Taylor Recital Hall, CSUC campus, 7:30pm.

Flowery Friends Preschool Program Friday, March 28th

11:00am - 12:00pm at CCNC, 1968 E. 8th St. $12 per child. In Spring, plants show off their best colors, all saying “Look at me! Look at me!” Why do the plants go through all the fuss of making pretty things for us to look at? We will talk about flowers, do a flowery craft, go for a walk to look at flowers and pollinators, and meet an animal. Perfect for ages 3 to 5, call 891-4671 to register.

April Thursday Night Farmers Market Thursday, April 3rd

Opening night! Farm-fresh produce, delicious food, arts and crafts, and live entertainment!

The market is a street festival and certified farmers’ market. The whole family will enjoy an evening at the market. www.downtownchico.com

First Friday on the Farm Friday, April 4th

An invitation for preschoolers and their parents to join in the fun at Wood Family Farm Preschool for free. There will be plenty of opportunities to learn through our play as we take care of the animals, work in the garden and enjoy life on the farm. Space is limited, so please call to reserve your spot 343-7120.

Sweet Repeats Spring Sale Friday, April 4th - Sunday, April 6th

Sweet Repeats is a seasonal infant, children, teen and maternity consignment sale. We are excited to bring you a great way to buy and sell high quality like-new and gentlyused children’s and maternity items all under one roof. When shopping at our sales you’ll find high-quality items - we inspect items to keep the quality up! Everything is organized, clearly marked and easy to find! Held at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds. See their website for how to shop for exclusive presales, www.sweetrepeatsale.com or like them on facebook, www.facebook.com/sweetrepeatsale

Children’s Fair Saturday, April 5th

Held in the downtown city plaza from 10am-2pm. Children’s activities, face painting, petting zoo, music and dance performances, and more!

Wildflower Hike Saturday, April 5th

10:00am - 11:30am at Upper Park near Horseshoe Lake, parking lot E. $10 Suggested Donation. Upper Park is an extraordinary meeting of valley and foothills habitats that makes for a great diversity of plants. In spring, the tapestry of wildflowers changes on a weekly basis. Bring your smartphone for a demo on how to use the online flower guide.

Call 891-4671 to register!

Walk 4 Water Saturday, April 5th

The W4W is educational, fun and inspirational for all ages. The event begins with each walker carrying their own empty bucket to walk a 2K or a 5K. As they walk, they pass by educational stations to learn what it would be like to gather water in a developing country and to learn about water conservation in their own community. The money raised last year will provide 2,337 Africans clean water sanitation and training in hygiene for life. The success of the event was because of the great spirit of generosity in our community. 8:30am. To preregister go to: www.btg4water.org.

Spring Fest at the Chico Mall Saturday, April 12th

Held from 11am-3pm. Goody bag giveaway, Easter Bunny arrival, face painting, crafts and more! Performances from the Chico School of Rock. Held in the Sears Court. Visit www.chicomall.com for more information.

Egg-cellent Eggs Preschool Program Saturday, April 12th

11am-12pm at CCNC, 1968 E. 8th St. $12 per child. What kinds of animals lay eggs?

Are all eggs the same? Come see how many different kinds of eggs there are at our Egg-cellent Eggs preschool program! We will make a cool craft, take a short hike and meet some of our very own egg-laying animals! Perfect for ages 3 to 5 years old. Call 891-4671 to register.

Photos with the Easter Bunny Saturday, April 12th - Saturday, April 19th

Held at the Chico Mall in the Sears Court. Please visit www.chicomall.com for more information.

Babes in the Woods Preschool Program Thursday, April 17th

3:00pm - 4:00pm at CCNC, 1968 E 8th St. $12 per child. Why are baby animals so cute?

How are animal kids’ lives different from ours and how are they the same? We’ll explore these questions and go for a hike through the Park to look for new animal families. We’ll also meet our favorite furry friend, Sylvester the rabbit, and make our own baby animal craft. Perfect for ages 3 to 5 years old. Call 891-4671 to register.

Camp Chico Creek Friday, April 18th

7:45am - 5:30pm at CCNC 1968 E 8th St. $35 per child per day. Bring back the magic of summer camp with our holiday camps! Camp Chico Creek is an environmental educationbased day camp for children 5 to 11 years old. The programs are designed to provide outdoor recreation activities and foster awareness of nature in a fun, safe and caring setting. Call 891-4671 for more information.

Spring Jamboree Saturday, April 19th

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! We will be hunting for colored eggs, jumping in a bounce house and taking pictures with real bunnies! Event is FREE to all! 10:00 AM Pre-School (5 yrs and younger w/parent) 10:45 AM Kindergarten 1st grade, 11:30 AM 2nd-3rd Grade, Caper Acres - Bidwell Park One-mile.

Nature’s Tanks Hike Saturday, April 19th

10:00am - 11:30am at CCNC, 1968 E 8th St. 891-4671 or info@bidwellpark.org. $10 Suggested Donation. Join us for a fun family adventure all about reptiles that have been on the planet since the dawn of the dinosaurs. We will be learning about the adaptations that have allowed them to survive on planet earth for 250 million years!

Camp Chico Creek Monday, April 21st

7:45am - 5:30pm at CCNC 1968 E 8th St. $35 per child per day. Bring back the magic of summer camp with our holiday camps! Camp Chico Creek is an environmental educationbased day camp for children 5 to 11 years old. The programs are designed to provide outdoor recreation activities and foster awareness of nature in a fun, safe and caring setting. Themes covering Park habitats and their natural and cultural histories are presented to the campers during each session. Call 891-4671 for more information.

Radical Rabbits Preschool Program Friday, April 25th

11:00am - 12:00pm at CCNC, 1968 E 8th St. $12 per child. Why do rabbits have such big ears? Do they eat anything besides carrots? Children will learn about these cute, furry critters, the habitats they live in and their place in nature (warning- gastric contents). We will go for a walk to look at good rabbit hiding places, make a craft, and meet our favorite rabbit, Sylvester. Perfect for ages 3 to 5 years old. Call 891-4671 to register.

Tarzan Friday, April 25th - Sunday, May 11th

Based on the Edgar Rice Burrough’s Tarzan of the Apes and the smash-hit 1999 Disney animated film. Visit www.crtshows.com for tickets and show times.

3rd Annual Chico Walks for Autism Saturday, April 26th

Will be held from 8:30-12pm in Bidwell Park near one mile. This event is hosted by The Yellow Door, a non-profit account of the North Valley Community Foundation. Our intent through events, is to promote a greater sense of community and awareness for all those participating. For more information please contact theyellowdoor@gmail.com

Chico Montessori Children’s House Annual Open House Saturday April 26th

9:30-11:30a.m. Come see the school, meet the teachers and have your child(ren) explore our classrooms. Open to the public so bring your friends! 814 Glenn St., 342-5518.

Great Cloth Diaper Change Saturday, April 26th

Guinness World Record diaper change event. 11am Contact Apple Blossom Baby for more info, 345-1617.

Celebrate the Jewel Chico Creek Nature Center’s Annual Spring Event Saturday, April 26th 11:00am - 3:00pm, Free! Great for all ages. 1968 E 8th St. 891-4671. Celebrate Bidwell Park with the Chico Creek Nature Center for their 3rd Annual event, Celebrate the Jewel!

As an open house for the Nature Center, there will be ongoing activities such as Meet the Animals, World of Trees Tours, Kristie’s Lab activities and more! Come see what Bidwell Park has to offer by meeting the many groups that use the Park for an endless amount of fun and family-friendly activities.

directories

P re s c h o o l & Chil dcare D irecto ry Center

Ages

Hours

Curriculum

Contact

Chico Montessori Children’s House

2.9-5 years

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

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 childs individual needs, builds his/her interests, and nurtures his/her enthusiasm.

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

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Creative Outlets In-Home Preschool

2-6 years

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

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

My program focuses on teaching kinder readiness and is tailored to the needs of each student. I incorporate Math, Science & Pre-Reading utilizing Zoo Phonics, cooking & gardening. We learn through play, music & art while providing a safe & exciting place to learn & grow. I encourage exploration & personal growth on an individual basis. Nutritional snack & lunch are provided.

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

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Dragonfly Playschool

2.5-5 years

8am-12noon Monday-Friday

864-5916 www.dragonflyplayschool.com

D T L S

Kidspark

2-12 years

Drop in childcare, affordable hourly rates. The preschool curriculum is offered from 9:00am-11:30am. Our 4 and 5 year old class is held on Monday/Wednesday/Friday and our 2 and 3 year old class is held on Tuesday/Thursday.

2477 Forest Ave. Chico, CA 94928 894-6800 www.kidspark.com

Little Sprouts Preschool

2-5 years

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

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

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

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

7am-6pm Monday-Friday

ECO Green, organic gardening, recycling Kindergarten readiness program, 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 A S Y

Wood Family Farm

3-8 years

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

HOORAY, LET’S PLAY! Nature-based, tactile, interactive curriculum that promotes age-appropriate growth and development. Large organic garden, barn with animals... a place to grow.

343-7120 www.WoodFamilyFarm.net

License # 045401420

License # 045405971

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

License # 045405821

License # 045404701, 045404702

License # 045405784

License# 045406227

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

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

Summer Camps!

Don’t let your summer camp go unnoticed, advertise in Growing Up Chico’s most complete local summer camp directory!

3 Months of Advertising for 1 Low Price Summer Issue - May, June and July Deadline: March 31st Reserve your space today!

Contact Rachele Thompson 518-0320 or rachele@growingupchico.com for more details

D L Y S D L S

Growing Up Chico’s Business Directory Ampla Health: Amy Evans Photography: Apple Blossom Baby: Bacio Catering & Carry Out Cuisine: Blue Oak School: ChecoCan: Chico Bullpen Baseball Academy: Chico Christian School: Chico Creek Dance Centre: Chico Creek Nature Center: Chico Dojo: Chico Doula Circle: Chico Jazzercise: Chico Massage Studio: Chico Montessori Children’s House: Chico Pediatric Dentistry:

Chico Performances: Chico Spring Fling: Creative Apple: Creative Outlets Preschool: CRT Kids Youth Theater: Downtown Chico Business Association: Dr. Couk DDS: Dr. James Wood, M.D.: Dragonfly Playschool: Eco Community Seeds Magazine:

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Eco In Chico: Family Eye Care Optometry: Feather River Hospital: Funny Faces Chico: HYPE Dance Studio: In Motion Fitness: Jacquelin Kowtko: JEI Learning Center: Kids In Motion (In Motion Fitness): Kids Park:

Little Sprouts Preschool: North Valley Eye Care: Play Well Technologies: Radio 101.7: Round Table Pizza: Snapshots Photobooth: Spring Valley Ranch: Summit Funding: Sunny Garden Montessori: Sweet Repeats Chico: Thrive Healthy Foods for Kids: Thrive Learning Center: Valley Oak Children’s Services: Watersprites Swim School: Wood Family Farm Preschool: Youthful Smiles Dentistry:

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