Summer 2015

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See Our Exclusive Summer

Camp Guide!

It’s Garden Time!

Make Your Own Raised Beds

Be Sun Smart!

Daily Ways to Prevent Skin Cancer

Teacher Appreciation

The ABCs of Teacher Gift Giving

Mom’s Toolbox

Ways to Curb Summer Boredom

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

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Summer 2015 May - June - July

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A quarterly resource celebrating family life in Butte county

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es den 10 tim e below, hid th e g h a it w im s e u Look for th e magazine. Email to t th throughou tion of each image om. loca .c o ic h c wingup ro g tered in a @ n e fo in matically s to to u a e b certificate en You will th ne of five, $20 gift win o al Skate! . drawing to FunLand/C y 5pm on May 31st b ill d e w iv rs . Winne st be rece r Emails mu y per person, please u o n o d entr nounce Only one ail and an m e y b d e page. be contact facebook

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

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

Welcome to Summer!

I am so excited about summer and about this summer issue of Growing Up Chico Magazine! Summer is such a fun time to play outside and spend time with those you love.

Whatever your plans are this summer, I am sure we have something in this issue that will keep you and your family entertained. There are so many fun things happening in our community this time of year. Don’t miss our Summer Camp Directory in the back of this issue and sign up early, as many spaces fill up fast.

This summer, we will be sure to attend many local events; 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 our booth and say hello.

I would like to send out a personal thank you to our magazine staff, our advertisers, and the community, for the overwhelming support. We could not produce this magazine without you! If you do business with any of our advertisers, please be sure to mention you saw their ad in Growing Up Chico.

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

Lara Krupicka Lara is a freelance writer and mom of three girls. She loves using a Job Jar and is always amazed at how her daughters can read their way through entire lists of award-winning books over the course of a summer.

T.E. Watson Children’s author, T.E.Watson, is a 22 times literary award winning author. His crowning achievement was being awarded Author of the year for 2009, for his book The Man Who Spoke With Cats. It was awarded the Best Children’s Book for 2009 by the American Authors Association, Receiving the Golden Quill Award. He can be contacted at www.tewatsononline.com.

Angella Terres Toral Angella is as junior at Chico State, majoring in Business Administration, with an option in Marketing. She is a student marketing assistant in the Chico Performances Office, and says she loves the experience she is getting working there. She especially loves being able to see all the shows!

Dana Leslie Marne Larsen Publisher marne@growingupchico.com

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

Dana is mom to a 6-year-old daughter, and is an active child and animal advocate in her community. Dana came to Chico with a mission to fuse her professional and philanthropic lives, by making “giving back” her profession. She took a full year to absorb her new city, learn about the community, and see what was needed most. She joined forces with North Valley Community Foundation, and the Chico Children’s Museum seed was sown. Dana is the President and Founder of the Chico Children’s Museum. To find out more about this museum please go to www. chicochildrensmuseum.org.

Megan Woolsey Megan lives in beautiful Northern California with her family of six, including triplets and a vivacious big sister. Megan authors the blog, The Hip Mothership, and has been published in Huffington Post, Scary Mommy, BLUNTmoms, Bonbon Break, Role Reboot, and Erma Bombeck’s Writer’s Workshop. When Megan needs a break from the kids, you can find her perusing her social media pages, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Cover Photo By: Turner Forte Photography.

Courtney Turner Forte is a local mom and professional photographer. She has worked for the last ten plus years for an array of clients, from adventure travel to advertising, and more recently with local families and schools doing portraiture. Her passion is photographing families in authentic lifestyle moments under natural sun-drenched light! Visit www.turnerfortephotography.com to book a session.

On the Cover: Siblings Avery and Jordan love exploring Bidwell Park! Whether it’s chasing bugs and pollywogs, or just swimming in the creek, you’ll find them making a splash here all summer long.

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

Advertising Deadline: To advertise in our upcoming Fall issue, please contact us by June 30th.

Article and Photo Submission Deadline: Please submit family-friendly and seasonally appropriate photos and informative articles for the Fall issue by June 30th.

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

Copyright © 2015 by Growing Up Chico Magazine. Reproductions without permission are prohibited. Articles and advertisements found in Growing Up Chico Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management.

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In Chico For ages 2-12

TABLE OF CONTENTS

see what’s inside...

School and Home 10 CHICO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Coming Soon to Our Community

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12 TEACHER APPRECIATION The ABCs of Teacher Gift Giving 14 THE “IMAGINICIAN”

Local Author, T.E. Watson Inspires

Family Time 18 CHICO PERFORMANCES Peter Pan, Jr. Flies in Soon!

19 BE SUN SMART!

21

Prevent Skin Cancer Daily

21 IT’S GARDEN TIME!

Make Your Own Raised Beds

Parenting 25 DADS AND DOULAS

18

Creating a Great Birth Experience

26 SUPER MOMS & DADS

Kids Say Why They Are SUPER

27 CHICO MOTHERS CLUB Celebrating 20 Years!

12

Photo Courtesy of www.makoodle.com

28 MOM’S TOOLBOX

Ways to Curb Summer Boredom

Summer Camps 30 Exclusive Camp Guide Plan Your Summer Now

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In Every Issue...

04 04 34 38 39

Editor’s Note Contributors Events Calendar Preschool Directory Advertiser Directory

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

Chico Children’s Museum

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hico Children’s Museum is in the developmental/ fund-raising stage.

They are members of the Association of Children’s Museums and are in partnership with North Valley Community Foundation. As members of the Association of Children’s Museums, they have access to the newest and most exciting exhibits traveling across the globe. With the help of donors, they will offer them HERE IN CHICO! Chico Children’s Museum believes the cure for boredom is curiosity! They will offer a collection of permanent and rotating hands-on exhibits, studios, and galleries.

The exhibits will be designed to serve as informal educational experiences, where children learn by manipulating and touching their surroundings. Their exhibits and experiences will be selected by experts in

Photo Courtesy of Paul Flynn and Whalefilm

child development and the arts, to maximize the educational and explorative interaction with each exhibit. CCM hopes to develop partnerships with other museums in the area to boost community involvement in science, nature and history.

The Chico Children’s Museum’s mission is to cultivate a lifelong love of learning through hands-on, minds-on, experiences that celebrate curiosity, connect families and cultivate a sense of unity within the community.

DANA LESLIE, PRESIDENT & FOUNDER OF CHICO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Dana grew up in Austin, Texas, and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA in Communication from St. Edward’s University.

Dana has a professional background in corporate event planning and high-end real estate sales.

Dana is Mom to a 6-year-old daughter, and is an active child and animal advocate in her community. She has volunteered for the Butte Humane Society and has served as an Ambassador for Citizen Generation. She has also volunteered for: The Austin Shelter for Women & Children, The Seedling Foundation, The Center for Child Protection, and was a tireless rescue aide for Austin Pets Alive (fostering over 60 puppies and kittens throughout her young daughter’s life). Dana was proudly named “Austin’s Philanthropist of the Month” for February, 2013, in NSIDE Austin Magazine. She was also recognized on ABC’s, Live with Kelly & Michael as one of “America’s Unstoppable Moms,” and featured in People Magazine and Family Fun Magazine.

Dana came to Chico with a mission to fuse her professional and philanthropic lives, by making “giving back” her profession. She took a full year to absorb her new city, learn about the community, and see what was needed most. She joined forces with North Valley Community Foundation, and the Chico Children’s Museum’s seed was sown.

“Chico is a city with tremendous history and life running through its veins. As a visitor, it beckons your return…that’s why we moved here after only one visit. As the mother of a young child, I quickly recognized the opportunity to enrich the childhood experience in this unique and education-based city, through a hands-on, minds-on ‘wonderland’ of sorts. In other cities, they call such places ‘Children’s Museums,’ although they certainly aren’t just for children, and they are quite ‘non-museum-ish’.”

- Dana Leslie, Founder & President

school and home www.growingupchico.com

Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas Growing Up Chico’s Pick:

One of Our Favorite Teacher Gift Ideas

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We searched the internet and found some great ideas on blogs and on Pinterest. One of our favorite ideas was that of gifts given in jars. We saw gifts given in Ball jars, drink dispensers and in large candy or cookie jars (see pictures, left). You could be as creative as you want with this type of gift and the container can be used as well!

ach May, the National Education Association promotes Teacher Appreciation Day. So, every year at this time, why not celebrate the power of positive partnership with your child’s teacher(s)?

The energy and attitude of your child’s teacher has a huge impact on how well your child performs in school. A teacher’s willingness to troubleshoot setbacks has a direct impact on how quickly and well your child bounces back from challenges in the classroom. So, if your child had a stellar school year or bounced back to overcome setbacks with the help of a teacher, consider a small gift and a thoughtful note from you and your child.

Here are some ideas: • Pour layers of wrapped candy to make a rainbow of candy • Put in a bag of coffee or tea, a mug, coffee shop gift card, and a nice tea towel • Make it a spa jar with lotions, candles, manicure items, etc.

• Pick a color, like yellow or orange and put candies, fruit, and other items of that color in the jar • Make a summer jar with sunscreen, a beach ball (not inflated), a water bottle, chapstick, and a Jamba Juice gift card • Have an ice cream theme and put cones, syrups, toppings, ice cream scoop, and even small bowls into the jar.

When your child catches you being generous to her teacher, she learns how to like and trust authority figures, which will pay off for a lifetime. Simply say the same two words you always hope your child will remember to say, “Thank you.” Then, add a key phrase that most working professionals can never hear enough, “We appreciate your hard work,” and you have got a sure-fire plan to put a smile on any teacher’s face.

Photo Courtesy of www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com

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growing up chico magazine

An Alphabet of Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas

A

(That Won’t Bust Your Budget)

By Christina Katz

is for art supplies that enrich the learning experience.

BC

is for books, for teachers and for the classroom.

D

is for chocolates, candies, or cupcakes. is for donations to a charity in her name.

EF

is for erasers in all shapes and sizes. is for food baskets, think: fast, ethnic, or organic.

G

A+

is for games for classroom downtime.

HI

is for handmade mugs, frames or vases.

is for iTunes gift cards for music teachers play in class.

q

M

J

is for jewelry or anything bedazzled.

KL

is for kitchen gadgets everyone always needs. is for lottery tickets stuffed in a personal note.

i n is for office supplies, but any type of supplies will do.

is for money in any form: coins, cash or checks.

NO

is for a personal note of praise sent to the principal.

P Q

is for a potted perennial or herb plant. is for quote books your teacher would fancy.

RS

is for recipe books written for busy people. is for salts, scrubs, or soaps.

TU VW X YZ

is for tea, but don’t forget the coffee.

g m

o

is for a big colorful umbrella. is for volunteering your time with a smile.

LO

is for a water bottle that will last all day.

w is for a yearbook donation so no child is left without.

is for coupons for eXtra time, eXtra help in the class, etc‌

is for Zinnias, but any colorful bouquet would do.

school and home

Think 4-H is all about animals?

Think again!

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growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

Today’s 4-H is about science, animation, arts, photography, outdoor life, shooting sports, public speaking, leadership, crafts, cooking, sewing, boating, and more.

(And yes, we still have animals too!)

For more information, go to: http://cebutte.ucanr.edu/4-H_Program/

Think 4-H is all about animals?

Think again!

Today’s 4-H is about science, animation, arts, photography, outdoor life, shooting sports, public speaking, leadership, crafts, cooking, sewing, boating, and more.

(And yes, we still have animals too!)

For more information, go to: http://cebutte.ucanr.edu/4-H_Program/

Local Author, T. E. Watson

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nternationally appreciated author of children’s books and school presentations, T.E. Watson, became known as the “Imaginician” because of his ability to combine imagination with technical know-how. There is a hint of magician included, which he adeptly shares with children, empowering them to discover their own unique imaginician.

His school visits are dynamic interactions with students where he creates inspiring, engaging dialogue and activities creatively structured for each individual grade level. The children leave these assemblies or classroom workshops, far more passionate and excited about reading and writing than ever before.

“To motivate and excite a child to read, and keep them excited, is the ultimate reward for all authors. It is our task, as writers, to keep the eyes of the reader glued to the words we place onto paper and to generate the imaginations that all readers have within, whether they know it or not. It is our job to bring those visions forth into a world the reader will relate with.” T. E. Watson

www.growingupchico.com

school and home

The “Imaginician”

Readers, no matter what age, should be given the opportunity to know words and to know books of most every genre. The individual imagination must be exercised to keep the mind alive. It must be driven through a sort of calisthenics to keep it strong.

“All writers must keep their skill and craft as precise as possible.

If the writer allows their words to fall to the ground, they will die a harsh death. Writing is the life blood of reading. They are sister and brother in the same family.” T. E. Watson

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When a child discovers “ they can do something well and feel great about what they have done, that feeling stays with them. It is what makes success that much more rewarding.

”

T. E. Watson

T. E. Watson is one of the most prolific children’s authors in the world today. His work spans over 127 stories, and counting, including his new audio books. From his Scottish children’s stories, to his newest audio books, he continues to amaze his readers.

With the abilities that T. E. Watson has developed, he is able to generate excitement about reading and writing, and keep that excitement generating. His motivational skills when presenting to children of all ages is known the world over. With activities specially crafted for every grade level, he is able to bring forward from the inner workings of each child’s mind, a world filled with imagination and wonder that reaches everyone around him.

“When a child discovers they can do something well and feel great about what they have done, that feeling stays with them. It is what makes success that much more rewarding.”

T. E. Watson is an award winning children’s author, columnist in the US and Canada, speaker, philanthropist and last, but certainly not least, a Scotsman. His career has spanned the many aspects of the publishing industry.

Having started by accident (with the efforts of some 35 enthusiastic 6th graders), his writings have taken readers to worlds they can revisit again and again. From his most recent travels back to Scotland in, The Man Who Spoke With Cats and his best-selling, Glen Robbie: A Scottish Fairy Tale, to keeping a dragon in his cellar in the very popular, Mom Can I Have A Dragon?, his readers keep coming back

for more, wondering to which magical land he is going to take them next.

Watson is the author of some 130 books, 5 new audio book productions and 12 new books being completed for children... and he says he has slowed a bit! T.E. Watson has over 40 years in the writing world, doing everything from reporting to writing for magazines and technical manuals, to political essays for national, as well as environmental issues. He has also penned many guides and teaching curriculums for schools throughout the country. He has written adult works, and even horror, but his first love will always be the Children’s genre.

His research and studies in Literature of the U.K, with a focus on Children’s Writers (with a more focused study of Robert Louis Stevenson), earned T.E. the very prestigious FSA Fellowship from the Royal National Museum in Edinburgh, Scotland in 2003.

T. E Watson is passionate about writing and continues to develop that passion. “You must have compassion as well as passion to help those who would also like to write excellent work as it should be.”

T. E. Watson has been President of The Northern California Publishers and Authors in the past and is currently a member of the SCBWI Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. He is a member of the California Writers Club and the CAPS (the Chico Authors and Publisher Society), based here in Chico, California, as well as many organizations overseas. He is very active in his Scottish organization community and is determined to never retire from writing for children.

Watson is presently working on his final rewrites of two chapter book trilogies for children, and has recently been commissioned to write two “how to” books on writing and marketing. His pet project is a book for authors called, Presenting Successful School Visits. Having become known as the “Guru of School Presentations,” his reputation for motivating and making reading and writing exciting, has earned him great acclaim all over the world.

T.E. Watson is available for further speaking engagements, as well as visits to schools. He also mentors and coaches writers part time when he has breathing space! You can read more about his books and his active speaking activities, and he can be contacted, by signing into his web site at www.tewatsononline.com.

family time www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com growing chico magazine 1818 18 growing upupchico growing up magazine chico magazine

Peter Pan, Jr. Will Soon Fly into Laxson Auditorium!

By Angella Terres Toral

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eter Pan, Jr. brings the island of Neverland into Laxson Auditorium on May 31st, 2015.

The magical musical adventure of Peter Pan comes to life thanks to the young local talents from Playhouse Youth Theater Company, as more than 30 kids, between the ages of 6 and 16, perform in Peter Pan, Jr. this May. This is a story that has been loved for generations, and one with which we are all familiar.

Wendy Darling loves to tell stories to her brothers, Michael and John, but when Wendy’s father announces she must move out of the nursery, Peter Pan comes to visit the children and whisks them away to Neverland. Their adventure introduces them to the Lost Boys, mermaids, Indians, and even the infamous pirate, Captain Hook! Based on the beloved Disney film and J.M. Barrie’s enchanting play, Disney’s Peter Pan, Jr., is a musical by kids for kids; a timeless tale about the boy who could fly and wouldn’t grow up.

Peter Pan, Jr. will feature all the popular songs from the beloved Disney movie, including: “Following the Leader”, “You Can Fly”, “Yo Ho, A Pirate’s Life for Me”, and many more.

Directing this performance is Lisa Schmit, who will be working with assistant director, Sarah Foster. “I’m excited to work with all the kids and seeing the big ones help the little ones and the little ones look up to the big ones,” said Schmidt, founder of Playhouse, one of Chico’s year-round children’s theatres.

Assistant director, Sarah Foster, says the most exciting part of

this performance is “watching the kids grow, learn and seeing them be excited about theater.”

Starring in this magical adventure are a few returning students who have performed at Laxson previously, along with a few new faces. Playing the part of the fearless Peter Pan, is 12 year old Sophie Purser, from Chico Jr. High School. 12 year old Maya Morris from C.O.R.E. will be playing the loving Wendy.

The sweet and sassy Tinker Bell will be acted by 9 year old Sophia Taylor from Neal Dow Elementary. The villainous pirate, Captain Hook, will be played by 13 year old Ava Hilsee from Blue Oak Charter.

Chico Performances is excited to host thousands of kids from surrounding schools during two morning student performances of Peter Pan, Jr. on June 1st as part of the Chico Performances Field Trip Series. The Field Trip Series introduces kids to the world of live theater every year by offering low cost tickets to teachers and students.

The matinee performance of Peter Pan, Jr. will be held on Sunday, May 31, 2015 at 2 p.m. in Laxson Auditorium at CSU, Chico and is open to the public.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.chicoperformances.com or by calling 530-898-6333.

SLIP! SLOP! SLAP! To Prevent Skin Cancer!

O

ne of the most successful health campaigns started in Australia. It was launched by The Cancer Council of Australia. The campaign had Sid the seagull, singing to remind us of three easy ways of to protect us against skin cancer. The U.S. is behind in the prevention of skin cancer in our youth and could learn from Australia, where hats and sunscreen are allowed, and often required, on school playgrounds and field trips! Here is Sid’s original (they have since added seek shade and slide on sunglasses) saying that can remind us how to prevent skin cancer:

Slip, Slop, Slap!

It sounds like a breeze when you say it like that!

Slip, Slop, Slap!

In the sun we always say, “Slip Slop Slap!”

Slip, Slop, Slap!

Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, and slap on a hat!

Slip, Slop, Slap!

You can stop skin cancer! - say: “Slip, Slop, Slap!”

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B

u S e

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family time

Creating Your Own Raised Garden

By Megan Woolsey

A

few years ago, my husband and I decided to take a small space in the very corner of our yard and transform it into a raised garden. The space was already fenced in because once upon a time, it contained some grass and a small plastic playground where I could corral my four small children and watch them play.

As it turns out, the kids area was never used much. It had an annoying plot of lawn that needed to be mowed. My mother suggested I turned it into a raised bed garden and immediately, I knew that this was the perfect useful solution to the corner space of unused property in my yard.

Three reasons why raised garden beds are great for my family: 1) Fruit from the grocery store generally leaves me wanting more and it is expensive – especially organic produce. The raised garden beds provide us fresh fruit and vegetables all year round for a family of six.

2) It’s important for kids to get their hands directly in the soil and be involved in the process of learning where our food comes from.

3) I have total control over my garden so I know there will not be chemicals. The debate continues on whether GMO is bad for consumption, but it does not matter in my garden because there is no GMO. The process of building your own raised garden is simple. I will break down the building of a garden in six simplified steps.

Step 1: Designing The Garden First, we needed a design for an odd shaped space in our yard where the garden would grow. We brought in our neighbor who is an engineer to help

conceptualize the best use of space. He designed four raised box planters to maximize the space.

Step 2: Choosing The Materials The choices you make here will dictate whether you spend $200 or $1,000. Cheap lumber or natural redwood? Nails or galvanized screws? Irrigation or hand water? We decided to go for quality in materials, which cost us more money.

• We opted to use untreated redwood planks that is more expensive, but redwood is known to withstand weather and the test of time. Treated redwood looks prettier, but you do not want the chemicals of the treated wood seeping into your beautiful organic garden.

• Galvanized screws are more expensive than the alternative, but will last longer and are worth the investment. Nails will rust over time.

• Mesh for the bottom of the boxes to prevent animals from coming up and eating our plants was essential.

• Gravel is important to layer below the mesh to help with drainage.

• Irrigation adds to the cost of the project, but offers a lifetime of convenience to your garden.

• Many online blogs suggest concrete to cement the posts into the ground.

We found this time-consuming step unnecessary, so we opted not to do this and it has worked out great.

Step 3: Building Simple Boxes We took a simple approach to building our boxes, screwing three six inch planks to 4×4 posts. This gave us a solid

family time www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com growingup upchico chicomagazine magazine 2222 growing

structure and ample height for our garden.

along the edge of the box with six butter lettuce plants.

Step 4: Dirt Matters We splurged with our soil and chose Super O organic soil. With the organic soil, we also added in, one half of a bag of Llama manure, to each raised bed as a fertilizer. The cost difference between using fill

Each bed has a marigold plant in each corner for a natural way to keep insects off of my fruits and vegetables.

dirt and good organic soil was several hundred dollars. This is where you can save money because non-organic fill is dirt-cheap.

fruits and vegetables. Every time I see a new bud about to burst into its fruit, it reminds me of life, health and self-sufficiency. The entire project cost around $1,000, from start to finish. You can definitely build your own raised garden for cheaper, but we are happy with the end result.

Step 5: Watering System My husband did a lot of research on whether to use a drip system or sprinklers, or nothing at all. There is plenty of debate on the best approach to watering a garden. We built an irrigation system that would allow for micro-sprinklers, or drip, depending on the needs of our garden.

Step 6: Planning For The Plants Find a local nursery that will talk to you about your climate and which plants will do best together in a raised bed.

Here is what we came up with: Bed #1: The Bruschetta Bed. This bed is made of six tomato plants.

There are heirloom tomatoes, little Sungold tomatoes, and a big prolific, beefsteak tomato. In between all of the tomatoes, are basil and parsley plants.

Bed #2: The Vegetable/Pepper Bed. This bed has cucumbers and zucchini; red and yellow bell peppers, and a jalapeĂąo plant.

Bed #3: The Melon Bed. This bed has two watermelon plants and two cantaloupe plants. We could not plant too many in this bed because the melon plants spread and get very big.

Bed #4: The Bean, Corn and Butter Lettuce Bed. I planted 12 corn stalks and four bean vines in this bed. I filled in some empty space

There is something exhilarating about growing your own organic

It is well known that the healthiest and most sustainable way to buy produce is to buy local. It doesn’t get more local than your own backyard. Find some unused space in your yard, rip out that waterwasting lawn, and build yourself a raised bed garden.

growing up up chico chico magazine magazine 2424 growing

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family time

Dads, Doulas & Birth

By Sara Tingey Gordon, Certified Doula, Owner of Chico Birth Services & The Nest

Cheat Sheet for Dads & Partners •

• •

•

I

• Dad photos by Emily Hajec Photography

n honor of Father’s Day, it seems appropriate to give a shout-out to dads’ roles in the birth process.

We have all seen movies in which a laboring woman berates her partner while he helplessly stands by, but the truth about dads is that they can be the key to a beautiful birth. Dads can support women in ways no professional can. Dads know where to touch. Dads are strong. Dads take action.

A

s a Doula, I have worked with dads who were initially unsure about their roles in birth. Some wanted to be as removed from the experience as possible, while others worried that having a doula present would make their efforts unnecessary. I am happy to say, no doula should ever replace a supportive partner; and when the efforts of Dad and Doula are combined, birth can be a supported and empowering experience for the whole family.

D

oulas, or other support people, can help dads by teaching them where and how to massage and how to help with position changes; reassuring them that things are progressing normally and supporting them when the unexpected happens. Doulas and Dads can trade off the, sometimes exhausting, physical comfort measures that a laboring mom needs, giving Dad the chance to take a break.

D

ads can feel helpless during the intensity of birth, but they can do so much just by being present, paying attention, and following Mom’s lead. Dads may not be able to take away the pain of childbirth, but they can provide the rock solid emotional support that their partner needs to get through labor.

• • • •

•

Build a great “birth team.” Work with your partner to find a doctor or midwife that you both feel comfortable with. Hire a doula or find an experienced support person to provide nonjudgmental support and information for your birth choices.

Have your doula or childbirth educator teach you comfort measures for labor and birth.

Ask questions. If you are unsure or concerned about what is happening, ask your doctor, nurse, or doula to explain what is happening and why.

Take breaks. A laboring woman has the benefit of adrenaline and a variety of birthing hormones to keep her energy up, but dads need stamina too. Taking time to rest, eat, and hydrate is crucial.

Take nothing personally. Laboring women can change their minds often about what feels good. Keep trying new positions and techniques.

Bring your sense of humor!

Don’t talk during contractions (not to Mom or to others in the room).

Monitor phone messages and visitors. Decide ahead of time who you want present and stick to that.

Remind friends and family members not to post about the birth on social media until you have made your announcement.

Ask for privacy when you need it. If Mom is getting overwhelmed with decisions, visitors, or other interruptions, politely ask the staff to give you a few minutes of uninterrupted privacy.

B

irth should be a time when both partners feel supported and can relax and enjoy the process of meeting their new baby. Working together and leaning on the support of those around you, can help your family have a supported and positive experience.

parenting

My mom is

because…

“…she gets me fire trucks.” Paxton -Age 2yrs 9 months “…she takes me to my swim practice and my swim meets.” Elle -Age 9 “…she fixes boo boo’s” (Mom’s a nurse). Lily -Age 2yrs 9 months

“…she takes me to see tractors, plays with me, and because I just love her!” Jessen -Age 4 “…she dances with me!” Chloe -Age 5

www.growingupchico.com

Photo By: Tami Oberg Photography

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growing up chico magazine

My dad is

because…

“…he plays board games with me.” Anneka -Age 9 “…he plays basketball with me.” Avery -Age 9 “...he is awesome!” Evan -Age 5

“When mommy tickles me, I say “help daddy, help” and he comes to save me.” Joseph -Age 5

Chico Mothers’ Club Turns 20!

S

ay, have you ever been stuck in an elevator with a bunch of people? This can build a caring community instantly. Parenthood can bond absolute strangers just like this!

Joining the Chico Mothers’ Club (CMC), for a cost of $25 per year, immediately provides a mom with seventy-plus mothers to share this bond. As a member of CMC, you will have access to a myriad of experiences ranging from playgroups, parties, tours, and lessons to Mom’s Night Out gatherings.

Above all, Chico Mothers’ Club offers community. The chance to befriend other families grounds a person through the changes of early parenthood. It is an inspiration to meet weekly with a consistent group of moms and kids who share this life experience.

Playgroups at coffee shops, homes, and parks establish ongoing relationships which translate into a bolstered sense of personal wellbeing for both the parent and the child.

Early on, babies hear the mothers building friendships while they play next to peers. As interactive toddlers, they gain weekly practice in developing and maintaining their own friendships. Little by little, moms informally guide children to listen, share, and take turns. This socialization fosters confidence and success.

Don’t be stuck alone in the elevator! It’s 2015 and Chico Mothers’ Club is twenty years old!

Our devoted President and Vice President (who are simply club members) are planning something fun! To get the perks that CMC

offers all mothers, visit: www. chicomothersclub.org, complete the membership form, and contribute your $25 fee on PayPal. Join Us CMC and Enjoy: • Moms’ Night Out • Online Social Network • Local Tours • Holiday Celebrations • Walks, Hikes, Parade, Skating, Bowling, Gym • Dinner Delivery for families of newborns • Crafts and Lessons • 7 Weekly Playgroups

parenting

Mom’s Toolbox:

Summer Sanity Savers

By Lara Krupicka

“I’m bored.” “There’s nothing to do!” Moms dread to hear these refrains, especially in the weeks after the school year ends.

Between keeping the house running smoothly, and ensuring a good balance of entertainment, education and relaxation, it can be overwhelming. But with preparation and the right tools, you can save your sanity and make it a summer to remember.

Here are a few proven, summer-ready tools any mom can use:

Create your own job jar by designating an empty container to fill with slips of paper containing the chores to be done (along with some free day slips). Include tasks such as: wiping down kitchen cabinet fronts, dusting slats on wood blinds, and cleaning out the silverware drawer. Make the jobs simpler for younger children or plan on assisting, should they draw a more difficult job.

Also, keep duties brief enough to be easily completed in fifteen minutes.

You can put an entire summer’s worth of jobs in the jar and have children draw slips daily until the jar is empty. Or you can fill it weekly with enough chores for children to draw one apiece each day. Then, make note of small tasks around the house as you notice them, to be added to the job jar later.

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The Reading Ratchet What will your kids be reading this summer or what will you read to them? Whether you live with kids who have an unending appetite for books, or have to bribe your child to crack one open, it helps to have a list from which to work. Add this tool to your belt now and you will be able to reach for it all summer long whether in response to the occasional “I’m bored,” or to fill the stretches of time during a long car ride or plane trip.

Do not feel like you have to create a list all on your own (although if you’ve been meaning to have your kids read some of your favorites, now’s your chance). There are plenty of reading lists available for kids of all ages. If your school hands out a summer reading list, start with that.

Some kids enjoy the challenge of reading all the recent awardwinners. Occasionally, schools offer rewards for those who complete a list. Book awards include: the Caldecott Medal (for picture books), Geisel Medal (beginning reader), Newbery (most distinguished children’s book), and Coretta Scott King (African American authors and illustrators). Many states also have their own young readers’ book awards, in which students can participate by reading a minimum number of books from the list of nominees before voting for their favorites.

growing up chico magazine

www.growingupchico.com

The Job Jar You know those tasks that always fall to the bottom of the list?

Summer can be a great time to have the kids help you complete them. Breaking them into fifteen-minute jobs and setting up a lottery system for assigning them (where everyone has a chance of drawing a “day off”) can make chores less like work.

As a parent, you can also create your own reading list to target specific goals you have for your children. Kara Haas requires her two sons to read three different types of books each summer: one Christian biography, one historical fiction and one fiction. Then she has them answer questions she and her husband have created.

Photo Courtesy of www.somewhatsimple.com.

The Fun Friday Blueprint Every mom should have a master plan for fun. Decide when you will make local excursions and where you will go. Some moms, like Emily Neal, make the outings a weekly event and invite friends to join them. This makes planning ahead important.

Involve your children in brainstorming destinations. You could include nearby water parks, new-to-you playgrounds, ice cream shops, museums, zoos, and gardens. Don’t forget to have both indoor and outdoor options so you can flex with the weather.

Even a trip to the party store to buy zany masks for at-home fun can make a difference, Neal points out. “Sometimes the simplest things are the coolest,” she says. Having a plan for fun ensures that you won’t be stuck at home wondering what to do. And you won’t finish the summer regretting not visiting places you had hoped to. “It’s important to be deliberate about it,” says Neal.

“It’s fun to look back and have all those memories.”

The Life Skills Drill School is for learning the three R’s. Home is where our children should be mastering life skills that enable them to navigate the everyday world. Start with the basics, such as cleaning a bathroom and then progress in the tween and teen years to such skills as balancing a checkbook and changing the oil on a car.

Haas has made skill development a priority for her boys’ summers. “Every summer since they were ten, they have learned a new skill that will help them when they own their own home or manage their homes. Some years it has been painting, placing sidewalk pavers, basic construction, and even sewing,” she explains. “I’d watch their life and think, what are they old enough to do? Or what am I tired of doing for them?”

Choose one or two new skills you would like to see your child master. Then create a plan. How often will they practice the new skill - once a week, once a month, or repetitively for a short time during the course of a single longer project? Who will teach them the skill and how will the child demonstrate he has mastered it?

Using these tools you will be keeping your children active mentally and socially. And they will be helping you out and developing abilities that will last long after the summer is over.

Job Jar Ideas • Wipe down fronts of kitchen cabinets • Wash out insides of all household wastebaskets • Wipe down baseboards (in one or two given rooms) • Clean fingerprints from door jams (in one room) • Vacuum off couches and chairs and under cushions • Wipe down chair rungs in dining room • Pull weeds in one flower bed • Dust off fan blades of all ceiling fans Life Skills Options • Making an emergency phone call • Cleaning pet cages and food bowls • Cooking a simple meal • Laundry, including folding and ironing • Basic bicycle repair and maintenance • Lawn mowing • Replacing a fuse on circuit breaker • Balancing a checkbook • Painting walls and trim • Basic vegetable and fruit canning

summer camps www.growingupchico.com

Ability First Sports Ability First Youth Sports Camp

CONTACT: 588-0335, www.abilityfirstsports.org AGES: 8-17 COST: $900 DATES: June 21st-27th DESCRIPTION: Ability First Youth Sports Camp is a wheelchair sports camp designed to provide instructional and recreational opportunities to youth with physical disabilities. Athletes must be minimum assist to independent and be able to actively engage in sports. Sports range from the beginner through both the junior and national levels of athletic competition. Evening recreation programs are designed to provide opportunities for leisure and social activities.

Boys & Girls Club Camps Journey

CONTACT: 899-0335, www.bgcnv.org AGES: 6-12 years COST: $125.00 per week DATES: 6/8/2015-8/12/2015 DESCRIPTION: Camp Journey is a full service summer day camp at the Boys and Girls Club that serves youth ages 6-12. Our camp program is open Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 6:00pm with extended care options. Each week, campers will embark on a new adventure filled with sports, arts, science, and more. It also includes weekly local field trips, as well as trips to Sacramento Zoo, and Turtle Bay.

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Bricks 4 Kidz Bricks 4 Kidz Summer Camps

CONTACT: 332-9172, www.bricks4kidz.com/california-chico/ AGES: 6-13 years COST: $30 per day or $140 per week DATES: See below DESCRIPTION: June 8th -12th: Stop Motion Animation Camp; Lights, camera, LEGO® action! Use LEGO® bricks to tell YOUR story; complete with music, special effects and all your favorite mini figure characters!

June 15th-19th: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Camp! Grab your katanas and nunchucks as we prepare to fight crime with the TMBT’s.

June 22nd- 26th: Mine Craft Camp; Join Team Steve! Team TNT! Team Chicken, Team Pig or Team Creeper!!

June 29th-July 3rd: Bricks 4 Girlz. Grab your friends and hang out with us for a girls-only week of crafting and creating with LEGO® bricks.

July 6th-10th: Classic Arcade Camp. Jump into the world of classic 80’s arcade and video games.

July 13th-17th: Pokémon Camp. Get ready for an adventure in the world of Pokémon ®!

July 20th-24th: Amusement Park Camp. Get your ticket to ride at bricks 4 Kidz very own Amusement Park!

July 27th-31st: A Pirate’s Quest Camp. Shiver me timbers as we explore the popular culture behind the life of a pirate.

August 3rd-7th: Animal Grossology Camp.

If you’re fascinated by wild and wacky and gross and yucky, then this camp is for you!

Spend the week discovering the zany biology of our animal friends.

August 10th-14th: Super Hero Camp. Join Bricks 4 Kidz for a week building Super Heroes with LEGO® Bricks.

Butte County 4-H Youth Development Program Butte County 4-H Summer Camp

CONTACT: 538-7201 AGES: 9-18 years COST: $225 DATES: June 21st-25th DESCTIPTION: Butte County 4-H Camp is held at Camp Rockin’ U, less than 60 minutes from Oroville. This is a co-ed camp with youth 9-18 years of age. Bill Anderson and Kirsten Peters work with the high school kids to run the camp. They work with our 4-H teenagers, starting in October of the year before, so they provide the leadership at camp for the week. 4-H is a youth/adult partnership and Bill & Kirsten want the teens to learn in a safe environment. The teens lead campfire, recreation, crafts, water front and teach different types of line dances. Our camp runs for four and a half days. The camp we rent each year has great facilities. There is a pool, lake, full basketball court, sand volleyball court, soccer field and a softball field. The kids, with trained supervision, can also shoot air rifles or arrows. Our camp can hold 100-120 campers, teens and adults. If you want to send your young 4-H’er to a safe camp with lots of fun, please contact our 4-H office in Oroville and talk to Nick Bertagna at 538-7201.

Challenger Sports British Soccer Camp

CONTACT: 570-3895, CONTACT: 916-596-1694, www.challengersports.com AGES: 3-14 COST: $86-$179 DATES: Chico: June 8th-12th & June 22nd26th, Oroville: July 13th-17th, Paradise: August 3rd-7th DESCRIPTION: The most popular soccer camp in the country is based upon one of the most innovative approaches to coaching youth soccer. Our experienced staff study the game

at all levels and we identify key techniques that your players need to work on and master to reach their true potential. With programs for each age, the curriculums include a variety of foot skills, technical drills, tactical practices, freestyle soccer and small-sided games.

Chico Art School & Gallery Fun with Drawing & Painting

Fun with Drawing & Painting CONTACT: 570-3895, www.chicoartschool.com AGES: 7-14 COST: $125 DATES: Monday-Thursday 9:30-11:30am, held June 15th-18th, 22nd-25th, July 13th16th, 20th-23rd, 27th-30th and August 3rd-6th DESCRIPTION: Enjoy four days of painting and drawing lessons with instructor, Janet Lombardi Blixt. The school is conveniently located downtown on Broadway, between 3rd and 4th Streets. All levels accepted. Learn to work in charcoal, graphite, tempera and watercolor. Lessons will include the basics of drawing and painting. Janet has been voted best local artist for six years and best professor/instructor for the past two years through the Chico News & Review “Best Of” review. Email janet@chicoartschool.com to register. Once a week lessons are still available during summer, $25 for 1 ½ hours of instruction. Email for a schedule and sign up now! Like us on Facebook or visit our website for more information.

Chico Cheer All Stars, Inc. Chico Cheer Summer Camps

CONTACT: 894-2227, www.ChicoCheerAllStars.com AGES: 5 years and up COST: 1st camp $100, 2nd $75, 3rd $50 DATES: Monday-Thursday 10am-2pm in July DESCRIPTION: Beginners Cheer Camp: July 6th-9th. If your athlete loves to cheer and tumble, then this is the camp for them!

Athletes will learn basic cheerleading motions and terminology, tumbling, jumps and a special dance to perform on the final day!

Tumbling Camp: July 13th-16th. If your child loves to tumble, this is the perfect camp to help them succeed. All tumblers will be evaluated on the first day of camp for proper placement in either the beginner or advanced section of camp. Beginners will work on basic tumbling skills and jumps. Instruction includes: proper body position and techniques needed for cartwheels, round-offs, and back handsprings. For the advanced tumblers (back handsprings or above), focus will be on higher level tumbling such as tucks, layouts, and fulls. Please wear shorts and a tank top or tee with flexible tennis shoes and bring a sack lunch. Stunt Camp: July 20th-23rd. This camp is for anyone looking to advance their stunting skills. Kids will learn the proper technique to base, back spot or fly in a variety of stunts throughout the week. Special focus is on

flexibility and proper technique. Please wear shorts and a tank top or tee with flexible tennis shoes and bring a sack lunch.

science lab activities, art and recreation.

Choose your days of attendance to fit around your other summer activities. Lunch provided.

Chico Creek Dance Centre Showkids Disney Princesses on Parade

Chico Montessori Children’s House Chico Montessori Summer Camp

CONTACT: 893-9028, www.chicocreekdancecentre.com AGES: 4-10 years COST: $150 DATES: June 8th-19th, 9am – 12pm DESCRIPTION: Showkids Dance Camp offers children, ages 4-10 years, an experience in the wonderful world of dance and theater! Learn several dance styles, sing, create props and crafts and have tons of fun! Put it all together for 2 performances for friends and family!

Chico Creek Nature Center Camp Chico Creek

CONTACT: 530-891-4671, www.BidwellPark.org AGES: 5-11 years COST: FREE on June 5th! Camp is limited to the first 80 campers. $180 per week full days, $112.50 per week half days, or $40 per day for full day or $25 per day for half day, full flexibility. Extended care also available.

DATES: FREE on June 5th, June 8-Aug 14th DESCRIPTION: Campers learn about and enjoy nature through guided hikes, STEM aligned natural science labs, presentations of the Nature Center’s live animals, arts and crafts and swimming in Big Chico Creek.

Join us and see how much fun learning can be. Convenient online registration. Camp runs 9am to 4pm with options for half day and extended care. Lunch provided.

Jr. Naturalist (Counselor In Training) Level I & II

CONTACT: 891-4671, www.BidwellPark.org AGES: 12 to adult COST: $30 per week for Jr. Naturalist entering 7th, 8th or 9th grades in the fall, free for older Jr. Naturalists DATES: June 5-August 14th DESCRIPTION: Earn career experience working with younger kids this summer! Spend your summer in the park and by the creek, assisting camp counselors and leading games, crafts and animal care. Candidates are asked to attend 8 of 10 weeks for 6+ hours per day. Jr. Naturalists get to attend Nature Vacation Camp free. Lunch provided.

Nature Vacation Camp (for teens)

CONTACT: 891-4671, www.BidwellPark.org AGES: 12 to 17 years COST: $30 per day or $108 per week DATES: June 8-August 13th, Mondays thru Thursdays, 10am to 3pm DESCRIPTION: Enjoy swimming, hiking, and socializing in beautiful Bidwell Park.

Learn how to handle and care for the Nature Center’s animals and enjoy some natural

CONTACT: 342-5518, www.chicomontessori.com AGES: 2.9-6 years COST: ranges DATES: June 1st-August 14th DESCRIPTION: This year we will be having six themed camps: Insects June 1st-5th; Dinosaurs June 8th-19th; Science June 22ndJuly 2nd; Art July 6th-17th; The Solar System July 20th-31st; and The Five Senses August 3rd-14th. All camps will include water play on a daily basis, so bring your suit and sunscreen!

There are many time options available from 8:30am-5pm. Call or visit our website today.

Chico Rockstars School of Music Rockstars Summer Music Camp

CONTACT: 809-4932, www.chicorockstars.com AGES: 5-7, 8-12, 13+ COST: $75-$85 DATES: June 8th-12th and June 15th-19th DESCRIPTION: This fun and educational camp provides an introduction to various instruments: Piano, Ukulele, Guitar, and Drums. We also focus on singing, movement, and basic music theory. No previous experience necessary, beginner and intermediate levels are welcome! Please visit www.chicorockstars.com for more details.

Dragonfly Playschool Dragonfly Summer Camp

CONTACT: 864-5916, www.dragonflyplayschool.com AGES: 2.75-8 years COST: $100 per week DATES: Weekly starting June 8th – Aug 7th DESCRIPTION: Dragonfly Summer Camp is designed to give younger children, ages 2.75-8, a playful and active summer camp experience.

Each week’s thematic camp integrates cooking, crafts, games and music. Children are sure to make new friends and enjoy their exciting days at camp. All materials, plus organic and homemade snacks are included. Dragonfly Playschool is a Certified Eco-Healthy Program, state licensed with a credentialed teacher. Visit www. dragonflyplayschool.com for camp descriptions.

Durham Recreation & Park District Durh-amazing Summer Camp

CONTACT: 345-1921, www.durhamrec.com AGES: K-2nd and 3rd-6th COST: $145Full Time/$95Part Time /$35 Daily DATES: June 1st -August 14th (weekly) DESCRIPTION: Join our weekly themed, fun filled, summer camp. Daily activities include: arts and crafts, sports, wacky games, group challenges, field trips and SWIMMING!

Afternoon snack is provided for full day campers. Registration and fee payments can be completed online at www.durhamrec.com or in the recreation office. Enrollment is weekto-week. Options include full time, part time and daily drop in.

EV Free Church of Chico Vacation Bible School

CONTACT: 343-6022, www.efcchico.org AGES: 5 years (by Sept. 1)-entering 6th grade COST: FREE! DATES: July 13th-17th DESCRIPTION: Join us for 5 days of music, Bible stories, crafts, games, and snacks!

This year’s theme is Everest: Conquering Challenges with God’s Mighty Power! Hope to see you July 13th-17th from 9am-noon.

There is no cost for the program; T-shirts and CD are available for purchase. See you there!

1193 Filbert Ave. Register from June 1st until July 5th or until full. For more info please call.

Forebay Aquatic Center Various Camps-See Below

CONTACT: 893-2984, www.forebayaquaticcenter.com AGES: Varies by camp, please call or go to website for more details COST: Varies by camp, please call or go to website for more details DATES: Dates and times vary by class, so please call or go to website for more details DESCRIPTION: Aquatic Camp: Each day, children will participate in a different water venue: sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, standup paddling, and kayaking. Courses will focus on water safety and children will learn the fundamentals of lifetime aquatic activities.

Monday – Friday 9AM- 3 PM, 9 – 16 years, held weekly from 6/8-7/24.

Sailing Adventure Classes: Learn beginning sailing techniques through classroom instruction and on-the-water instruction.

Classroom sessions will be held on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings for on the water instruction. US sailing book will be used to teach from. Water safety, leaving and approaching shore, Point to point sailing, including tacking, gybing and downwind sailing will be taught.

Basic rules of sailing and navigating a buoyed course will be a requirement to pass the class. 9 years old – adult.

Stand up Paddleboard Yoga: Join Lisa

Weber and Lindsay McDonnell in morning and sunset SUP Yoga; no previous experience necessary to attend!! All levels welcome.

Classes are $25 and include paddleboard, paddle, lightweight lifejacket (mandatory), free parking, paddleboard instruction, and an hour of yoga. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to class to sign the required waiver consent form.

Junior Rowing Camp: Join us for a weeklong introduction to the wonderful world of

CONTINUED

summer camps

CONTINUED rowing! Learn the basics of this exciting Olympic sport. Classes include: US Rowing safe boating instruction. Swim testing. Step by step break down of basic rowing technique.

Monday-Friday: 8:00am-12:00pm Beginner Camp #1: June 15th – 19th, Beginner Camp #2: July 6th – 10th, Beginner Camp #3: August 3rd – 7th, Advanced Camp #1: August 17th – 21st. Ages: 11 – 17.

www.growingupchico.com

FunLand/ Cal Skate Chico FunLand Extreme Fun Summer Camps

CONTACT: 343-1601, www.funlandchico.com AGES: 5-12 years COST: $130 all day (9-5) or $100 mornings (9-1) DATES: Session 1: June 15th-June 19th, Session 2: July 6th-July 10th, Session 3: July 20th-July 24th, Session 4: August 3rd-August 7th.

DESCRIPTION: These summer camps are designed to be a fun, heart-healthy, active alternative to the ‘normal’ Summer Camp.

This is a chance for the campers to do everything FunLand and Cal Skate has to offer, and then some! Campers can spend the morning or the whole day doing things not normally offered to the public. Activities will include, but aren’t limited to: Skating, minigolfing, batting, arts/crafts, arcade games, dodge ball, hockey and more!

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Gateway Science Museum Astro Camp

CONTACT: 898-4121, www.csuchico.edu/gateway AGES: 4th-6th Grades: July 13th-17th, 7th9th Grades: July 27th-31st COST: $189/$199 DESCRIPTION: Gateway Science Museum presents ASTRO CAMP! Campers will experience a full week of exploration into our amazing universe. Hands-on explorations into space, our solar system, and meteorology will engage them in understanding phenomena of our universe that takes them both near and far.

Activities will enhance skills in math, physics, astronomy, and general inquisition, while learning about our planet, weather, and climate change. Plans include a twilight observation.

HYPE Dance Studio HYPE’s Summer 2015 Camps, Classes and Intensives CONTACT: 898-8789, www.hypedancestudio.com

AGES: 3 years and up COST: Varies, please call DATES: June 15-17: Disney Princess Camp (ages 3-5 / 6-8), June 22-25: Pop Starz Camp (ages 4-6 / 7-10), June 29-July 1: Frozen Camp #1 (3-5 / 6-8), July 6-9: Hip Hop Camp (ages 4-6 / 7-12), July 13-15: Pom Camp (ages 4-6 / 7-10), July 20-22: Frozen Camp #2 (ages 3-5 / 6-8), Fri, June 19: All Star Dance Team Auditions, July 26-29: “Dance Retreat 2015!” HYPE’s 4-day Intensive with Chris Jones, Gregg Russell, Melissa Emerico & more! Open to all dancer ages 6+!

DESCRIPTION: Our summer camps are SUMMER FUN! We provide knowledge and encouragement to all of our campers, as well as a sense of accomplishment and inspiration to help continue improving their skills. Campers develop great friendships and long-lasting memories! Whether it’s your first time dancing or you have been dancing for years, there is something for everyone in our SUMMER SESSION! In addition to dancing, we like to provide our campers with some extra activities at camp! Depending on the age and style of each camp, staff may include snacks, crafts, coloring, movies and more!

Each camp will finish with a final performance for family and friends to enjoy and help celebrate their success! This is a great way to show what the dancers have accomplished!

In Motion Fitness Kids In Motion Swim Camps

CONTACT: 895-5437 AGES: 4-7yrs and 8-12yrs COST: Ages 4-7yrs: $95/session, Ages 8-12yrs: $75/session DATES: Weekly Kids In Motion Sessions: June 15th, June 29th, July 13th and July 27th Weekly Fitness Camp Sessions: June 8th, June 22nd, July 20th and Aug 3rd DESCRIPTION: In Motion Fitness is happy to offer swimming and fitness camps for kids of all ages. The Kids In motion Camp for children, ages 4-7yrs old, offers a jam packed day full of swimming, art, nutrition and exercise. This camp runs Mon-Fri from 9am-1pm at a cost of $95/session. Contact Tennille Bales at 895-5437 ext. 127 for more information. Registration opens May 1. In Motion Fitness camps are designed for children ages 8-12 yrs old and include exercise, games, swimming and activities sure to wear your child out and get them fit for summer. Fitness camps run Mon-Thurs at a cost of $75/session. Contact Ryan Flenner for more information. Registration opens May 1st.

Inspire School of Arts & Sciences STEM Summer Camp

CONTACT: 891-3090 AGES: 5th-7th Grades COST: $175 DATES: July 13th-17th DESCRIPTION: Robotics, solar powered activities, DNA biomedical experiments,

soldering, making batteries, creating hot air balloons, rocket designing, building and launching, using sketching and 3D modeling software, designing jewelry, taking apart computers, exploring light, building mousetrap catapults and roller coasters…just to name a few activities will be offered at our camps. To register please go to: http://events. constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=uz8ev weab&oeidk=a07eaugmlzl1b1847c7

JEI Learning Center, Chico JEI Summer Camp 2015

CONTACT: 267-1300, chico.jeilearning.com AGES: Pre-K through 8th Grade COST: $720 per session DATES: Session 1: June 8th-July 2nd; Session 2: July 6th- July 30th DESCRIPTION: JEI Summer Camp is a fun and exciting camp to beat that summer slump so many students face when re-entering school in the fall. JEI’s program is not grueling, but is instead a fun way to cover math, English, critical thinking, reading and writing skills.

Hang out and learn with friends until noon, and still have a beautiful summer day to enjoy; it truly is the perfect summer session!

JEI Learning Center, Chico JEI SAT Bootcamp!

CONTACT: 267-1300, chico.jeilearning.com AGES: High School Students COST: $1750 per session DATES: Session 1: June 4th-July 3rd; Session 2: July 6th-July 31st DESCRIPTION: JEI’s program offers a comprehensive look at the aspects of the SAT, and helps students prepare for Critical Reading, Math, Writing, and everything in between! Over the course of the program, students will gain the knowledge and skills to help confidently prepare them for such a critical test, as well as Take Five SAT practice tests, by the end of their session. ACT test prep is also available, and will be equally as comprehensive!

KidsPark Camp KidsPark

CONTACT: 894-6800, www.KidsPark.com/Chico AGES: 2-12 COST: Hourly or day rates, please call for more info DATES: June 8th – August 7th, weekly themed summer camps DESCRIPTION: KidsPark is offering fun, weekly themed summer camps. Each week is packed full of a variety of activities that are guaranteed to be fun for everyone. From Kitchen Cooking, Wacky Water Week, Goopy Gak Attack and more. KidsPark summer camps have been creating great summer memories for the last 8 years! Call now for more information.

Barry Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary Critter Camp at the Barry Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary & Educational Center

CONTACT: Angie Bracco, 831-915-3323, salamasena@yahoo.com AGES: 5-11 years COST: $152 Tuesday—Friday or $45 per day DATES: June 9th-12th, 9am-2pm DESCRIPTION: Prices Include: Snacks, crafts, activities, a tour, getting up close with the reptiles, meeting the trainers and learning all about exotic, endangered and local wildlife.

Learn about their habitats and their habits!

Please RSVP as space is limited!

Mouth guard required ($5 at the rink). Extend the day at the sports complex by signing up for the additional “Sports” package, which includes indoor soccer, basketball, fun time skating, dodgeball, broomball, jump house and more. www.nvhockey.com. 250 Walsh St, Hamilton City.

The Progressive Schoolhouse 24th Annual Summer Arts Program

CONTACT: 343-3044 AGES: 2.9years – Kindergarten COST: 2 days-5 days $100-$235 depending on session DATES: 8:30am-11:45am, Session 1 June 8th-26th, Session 2 July 6th-17th, Session 3 July 20th-31st DESCRIPTION: Themed weeks with organic snack, play, songs, Spanish enrichment, stories, gardening and so much more! There are limited lunch and full day spots available.

CONTACT: 345-5665, www.progressiveschoolhouse.com AGES: 5-15 years + family COST: $35-$130, multiple fee options DATES: June 15th-July 31st DESCRIPTION: For ages 5 and up, we have three 7-week programs, one-day or multiple day options, $35-$130. Children’s Art Program (ages 5-15): June 15th-July 31st, M-F, 9am2pm; instruction in various areas of artistic discipline. Academic Support: M-W, 2:305:30pm; comprehensive & individualized.

Open Studio: M-W, 6-8pm. In association with The International Institute of Education Through the Arts, The Artist’s Playground offers children & families an opportunity to participate in an exciting arts experience that supports the development, expression, learning process & autonomy of the individual.

North Rim CrossFit CrossFit Summer Camp

Rose Scott School Rose Scott School Summer Camps

La Casita Primera Preschool LCP Summer Program

CONTACT: 519-8220, www.Northrimcrossfit.com AGES: 4-7 years and 8-14 years COST: $75 DATES: July 6th-9th for ages 4-7, and July 13th-16th for ages 8-14 from 10am-12pm.

DESCRIPTION: Crossfit kids will teach kids that fitness is fun. They will learn functional movements, such as squats, pullups, rope climbs, box jumps, wall balls and some Olympic lifts. The kids will learn the mechanics, consistency and then intensity, which will help them to be better in the other sports they perform. We will have a warm up and then break into groups working on these movements and finish with a fun game.

North Valley Hockey and Sports Complex Hockey and Sports Camp

CONTACT: 408-691-7657, www.nvhsc.org AGES: 6-14 years COST: $70-$80 DATES: Camp 1: Hockey Camp, 7/14-7/17 Tues-Fri 8:30am-12:30pm; Sports Camp, 7/14-7/17 Tues-Fri 12:30-5:30pm. Camp 2: Hockey Camp, 7/21-7/30 Tues & Thurs 8:30am-12:30pm; Sports Camp, 7/21-7/30 Tues & Thurs 12:30-5:30pm DESCRIPTION: Hockey in Chico? Yes, kind of! Our indoor roller hockey rink and sports complex is located in Hamilton City (15 minutes from Chico). Coaches will work with players on inline skating plus beginning and basic/intermediate hockey skills. All equipment provided at no charge, including the skates.

CONTACT: 354-3101, www.rosescottschool.com AGES: K-12th COST: $280 for each 2 week session from 9:30-2:30pm with day-care from 2:30-4pm for $6 per hour.

DATES: 1st session: June 15th-June 26th and 2nd Session: July 13th-July 24th.

DESCRIPTION: Rose Scott School is a nonprofit, private K-12 school, specializing in students with giftedness, ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, high-functioning autism and other learning challenges and strengths. We are offering two separate two-week sessions.

Activities include: Gardening, Arts and Crafts, Sewing, Nature Activities, Cooking, Team Building Games, Making Jewelry, Fit Kids: PE to Music, and Swimming at One Mile.

Sherwood Montessori Public Charter School Richie Day Camp CONTACT: 828-8890, www.sherwoodmontessori.org AGES: 5-15 years COST: $14 half day (3.5 hours)/$28 full day *8:30-NOON AND NOON-3:30 Tu-We-Th only. Pay by the half day, day, “week” (3 days per week), or for the entire 5 weeks.

DATES: 6/30-7/30 (Tu-We-Th only) DESCRIPTION: PLAYGROUND/GAMES, SOCCER, WATER SLIDE, ARTS & CRAFTS, BIDWELL PARK WALKS-CREEK SWIMS, GROW-COOK-EAT (SCHOOL GARDEN COOKING CLASSES WITH CHEF RICHIE)…AIR CONDITIONED ROOMS… SPONSORED BY/INSURED THROUGH

SHERWOOD MONTESSORI…KIDS FROM ANY SCHOOLS ARE WELCOME!

Silver Dollar BMX BMX Camp

CONTACT: 566-1BMX, www.silverdollarbmx.org AGES: 3 years and up COST: $110 per week DATES: June 9th through July 18th DESCRIPTION: CARD and Silver Dollar BMX have partnered to bring BMX to Chico again this summer. Come and meet our professional instructor, Jake Peebles, and other national champion instructors. If you are just beginning, or have some experience in the novice class, you will not want to miss out on Jake’s secrets! This camp features basic instruction from the starting gate to the finish line, including gate starts, passing, jumps and more! Camp is open to boys and girls. Each class member will receive four Thursday night practices and race sessions at the Silver Dollar BMX track ($20 value). Practice is from 6:00pm to 7:00pm with racing starting shortly thereafter.

The Wright Keys Sail Away With Ukulele

CONTACT: 781-2224, www.thewrightkeys.com/summercamps AGES: 7-10 years: 11am-12pm, 11-14 years: 2-3pm COST: $105 (ukuleles & tuner available for purchase, $65) DATES: Session 1: Tuesdays/Thursdays June 9th-26th, Session 2: July 14th-30th DESCRIPTION: Set sail for an adventure of the four stringed variety! Join our class as we learn the basics of playing Ukulele. Students will learn how to play and read music through games, activities and sing-a-longs. The students will also receive a travel log to record their progress on the adventure and keep for reference after the expedition is over. The voyage will conclude with a fun performance from the class.

Blast Off With Piano

August 3rd-7th DESCRIPTION: Is your child interested in piano, but you’re not sure if they are really will maintain interest? Come give them a “taste” with our one-week BLAST OFF class. This is a wonderful class for absolute beginners. Children will learn some basics of rhythm and music, and learn to play enjoyable songs in an ensemble. The week-long class will culminate with a short “recital” on the last day.

TJ Farms Farm Camp at TJ Farms CONTACT: 342-1244, www.tjfarmsestates.com AGES: 6-12 years COST: $139

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CONTINUED DATES: See www.chicorec.com for dates.

DESCRIPTION: Come join us at TJ Farms to get hands-on experience learning about agriculture; from gardening to farm animals, also blacksmithing and more. We are limited to only 12 participants per camp. Like us at TJ Farms Estates on Facebook for more information regarding camps, Farmers Markets and other activities on the farm.

Registration at this time is processed through Chico Area Recreation District.

Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology – CSU Chico Anthropology Camp CONTACT: 898-5397, www.csuchico.edu/anthmuseum AGES: 5-11 COST: Monday-Thursday $80 DATES: June 29th - July 24th DESCRIPTION: Summer Camp at the Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology encourages creative activities to learn about other people, places and time periods throughout the world. Using hands-on activities, like drama, science, music, cooking, and art, children will travel the world, learning about people and cultures. This year we have brand new themes, including: CSI Chico, The Amazing Race, Step into the Stone Age, and old favorite: Dragonology!

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Wood Family Farm Wood Family Farm Camp

CONTACT: 343-7120, www.WoodFamilyFarm.net AGES: Preschool – 10 years COST: $125.00 DATES: June 8th through week of Aug. 14th.

DESCRIPTION: Wood Family Farm is passionate about providing hands on experiences that connect Chico area kids with the world around them. Our nature-based summer adventure camps include: “Life on the Farm,” “Woodworking-Habitats,” “Farm to Table Cooking,” “Messy Art,” camps and more. Children will care for our various farm animals, tend to large organic garden, cook fresh healthy food, and enjoy creative art projects as we play and learn together at Wood Family Farm-a place to grow. Camps held M-F 8:30-12:00 noon.

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

Please call ahead to confirm events.

Ongoing Events Baby Cafe: This is a relaxed group for parents and babies to meet, visit, and develop a network of support and friendship. Held on Tuesdays from 9-10:30 am at The Nest Chico, www.TheNestChico.com.

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.

Barry Kirshner Wildlife Sanctuary and Education Center: The mission of the Barry Kirshner Wildlife

Foundation is to provide rehabilitation and long-term care for exotic and native species, as well as to provide educational programs on all levels, emphasizing wildlife and habitat conservation. Field trips, tours, camps and more.

Call 533-1000 or go to www.kirshner.org for more info.

Book Family Farm: Fun, Educational, Year Round Field

Trips & Tours, and Grass-Fed Meats. Fun, educational farm tours Saturdays: $5 per child, adults free if accompanied by child. RSVP bookfamilyfarm@gmail.com or 342-4375.

May 10:00, June 9:30, July 9:00. For up to date info, “like us” on Facebook.

Bricks 4 Kids: Our programs provide an extraordinary

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

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

Butte County Library: Preschool Storytime for 3-5 years: stories, songs & craft Tues-10am and 11am; Babies Love Books 0-18 mos. stories, songs & bounces Wed-9:30am and 10:30am; Toddler Story time for 1-3 years stories, songs & action rhymes Fri-10am and 11am.

Please call for more information on Japanese Story time, Spanish Story time, Chinese Story time, or FREE summer reading program. 891-2762, www.buttecounty.net/ bclibrary.

Butte Parent Cafe’:

Free public events where parents have meaningful, guided conversations that help solve problems which could affect their children. Dinner and childcare will be provided free of charge. Parents, Foster Parents, Grandparents, Providers, and other people working with or raising children or anyone in the community who is interested in strengthening families in our community are encouraged to attend. Café is offered once a month in Oroville and once a month in Chico. www.butteparentcafe.com.

Cesarean Recovery and VBAC Support Circle:

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

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

Chapman Food And Fitness Festival: Held every Friday from 2–5:30pm at 1010 Cleveland Ave. For more information, call 624-8844 or visit www.cChaos.org.

Chico Air Museum: The Chico Air Museum is located at the Chico Municipal Airport. This museum features air exhibits that are fun for the whole family! Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9am-4pm. FREE! 147 Convair Court, 345-6468.

Chico Art School: Classes in painting and drawing for

ages 7+. All levels. Monday-Saturday. Email for homeschool, after school and adult class availability. $25 per class-1 1/2 hr. Email Janet@chicoartschool.com or find them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChicoArtSchoolandGallery.

Chico Certified Farmers’ Market-Saturdays: Take advantage of all the wonderful produce grown locally at Chico’s year round Farmers’ Market. Held every Saturday from 7:30am1pm, rain or shine. Located at 2nd and Wall St. parking lot.

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

Chico Dojo: Kids Karate classes for kids 3 and up. 30 years of teaching experience. Classes include: All Belts Kids Karate, Adults All Belt Karate, Kabudo (Weapons Training), and Advanced Karate. Please call 898-9753 or go to www. chicodojo.com.

Chico Doula Circle:

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

For more information visit www.chicodoulacircle.com.

Chico Museum:

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

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.

Enloe’s Mother and Baby Education Center:

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

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

Family Swim:

The 90 degree indoor pool is always comfortable any time of year. Family Swim is open to anyone (no membership required) on Fridays from 5-8 pm. Cost is just $2 per person. For more information, contact Chico Water Sprites at 342-2999 or visit www. chicowatersprites.com.

Fantastic Fridays: Athletic Horizons has the ultimate

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

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

Friday Night Concerts: The concerts, a cherished summertime traditon, are held weekly (May 8 - Sept. 11) and are widely considered Chico’s best place to hear live, local music for free. Located in City Plaza, in the heart of downtown, the concerts offer entertainment to suit every musical preference - styles range from blues to swing and from Classic rock to reggae. Go to www.downtownchico.com for more details.

Gateway Science Museum: Come explore the Gateway.

Visit the many hands on exhibits for kids and families of all ages.

See ad in this issue for more information on current exhibits.

Open Wed. through Sun. noon to 5pm. For more information, call 898-4121 or visit www.csuchico.edu/gateway.

Great Expectations Childbirth Education:

This 4 hour pregnancy and childbirth education workshop will prepare you for childbirth. Get all your questions answered and learn how to prepare for a positive, informed, & supported birth experience. The intimate size of this workshop gives participants the opportunity to express and address their unique concerns and needs. Single parents and couples welcome. Private classes scheduled at your convenience.

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

Home Depot Kids Workshops:

Chico & Oroville.

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

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

Kids in Safe Seats:

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

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.

La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Group:

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

Lowe’s Build and Grow Workshops: Free kids clinic, Saturdays at 10am. Must pre register at: www. lowesbuildandgrow.com or call for more info.

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

Contact EV Free Church for more information: 343-6022.

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.

Mothers Strong Support Group: “Baby blues and beyond. . . .” We are moms who provide support and strive to empower each other. Our group is a safe, advice free, and judgement free zone. A place to speak the truth about mothering even when you may feel anxious or depressed.

Held on Thursdays from 10-11 am at The Nest Chico, www.TheNestChico.com.

Museum of Northern California Art (MONCA): The mission of the Museum is to make art accessible and promote awareness of northern California artists through collections, exhibitions, and educational programs. www.monca.org.

Patrick Ranch Museum: The Patrick Ranch Museum

is open on Saturdays for tours of the Glenwood Farm house. Tours from 11am-3pm. Visit website for upcoming events on Saturdays at patrickranchmuseum.org or call 342-4359.

Picnic In The Plaza:

The City of Chico, Park Division, and the Downtown Chico Business Association invite you to join them for Picnic in the Plaza which will be held every Tuesday from 11:30-1pm. Bring a lunch or grab a bite to eat from one of the food trucks and enjoy a variety of provided entertainment.

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.

Roo’s Zoo Skate Session at Cal Skate:

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

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

Sliver Dollar BMX: First race is FREE for those looking to try something new here in Chico! There are racers as young as 3 years old and all ages are welcome! Practice/ racing every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, weather permitting. “Like” us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ sdbmx to receive current track updates.

Sunny Garden Montessori Mommy and Me Playgroups: An ongoing weekly PLAYGROUP for children and their parents. Children will be introduced to stimulating toys and activities; all guided by their parent!

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Please call 343-3101 for more information or visit www.sunnygardenmontessori. com.

The Mom Spot: A place for mothers of young children (birth through kindergarten) to connect by building friendships and sharing experiences. Meets on second and fourth Tuesdays of the month 9-11:30 am. Join us for a hot breakfast, craft, speaker, and free onsite child care. Meets at Paradise Alliance Church 6491 Clark Rd. Paradisecall for questions 877-7069.

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

Thursday Night Farmer’s Market: Explore Downtown Chico’s Thursday Night

Market weekly, April through September from 6-9pm. Farm-fresh produce, delicious food, arts and crafts, and live entertainment! www.downtownchico.com.

May Endangered Species Faire Saturday, May 2nd

Butte Environmental Council hosts the 36th annual Endangered Species Faire at One Mile Picnic Area in Lower Bidwell Park. This is a free event for the entire family featuring local entertainment and food. Also, being featured is a larger than life puppet parade, interactive educational booths, and a rescued animal show. 11-4pm, www.becnet.org/ endangered-species-faire.

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An Old-Fashioned Family Picnic Day Saturday, May 2nd

At the Patrick Ranch Museum. Admission: $5 for 12 and over and $2 for under 12.

Box lunch is $5. Activities include: 3 legged race, sack race, square dancing, croquet, badminton, tug of war, water balloon toss, marbles, and jump rope. Lunch: 12:00-1:00.

Events: 1:00-3:00. Tram rides and child friendly house tours: 3:00-4:00. For more info, please go to: www.patrickranchmuseum.org.

Children’s Hope COLOR 5K Saturday, May 2nd

This is the FIRST EVER Children’s Hope COLOR 5K. The event will be held in Gridley.

The Fun Walk and Run will start and end at Daddow Park in Gridley and will be fun for the entire family. This event is to support foster children from the area and the programs that they are involved in. 100% of the profit from the event goes to the children. www.childrenshopeffa.org/color5k.

Full Moon Wellness Treatments for Kids, Newborn through 7 Years Monday, May 4th

$10 per child. Gentle, noninvasive, traditional Japanese technique. Held at Chico Community Acupuncture from 2-7pm, 1815 Mangrove Ave. Please call 345-5300 for more info.

Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy Wednesday, May 6th

Visions From Cape Briton and Beyond: A Celtic Family Celebration. Held at Laxson Auditorium, please go to www.chicoperformances.com for more details.

North Valley Hockey’s Fundraiser Fiesta Friday, May 8th

Held from 6-11pm at 250 Walsh Ave. in Hamilton City. Music by the Retrotones. Dinner, drinks, raffle, silent auction, and casino party black jack. 21 and over. Please contact the rink for tickets or more info, www.nvhockey.com.

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Kiwanis 68th Annual Kiddies’ Parade Friday, May 8th

A free parade for all, with children dressing up with the theme, “A Day at the Zoo.” This is the 68th year and the longest annual children parade in Downtown Oroville. At Pine St. & Myers St, 4pm.

Embracing Motherhood Saturday, May 9th

Join local mothers for a day dedicated to celebrating the joys and challenges of motherhood. Event includes a keynote speaker, breakout sessions and lunch catered by Bacio! Babies in arms welcome. Register at www.facebook.com/ MothersStrongevent.

Annual Antique Show Saturday, May 9th

Held at the Patrick Ranch Museum. For more details please go to: www. patrickranchmuseum.org.

Feather Fiesta Days Saturday, May 9th

This is a week long Festival with a wide variety of activities including: a museum open house, a Community Concert, Grand Parade, Gold Rush Crafts Fair, Gold Rush Car

Show, Art Exhibits, Chili Cook-Off, Concert, Beer Garden, Lott Home Arts and Craft Fair, Artists of River Town Kids Art Projects and Exhibits and more. For up to date details, visit us on Facebook at Feather Fiesta Days. Downtown Oroville.

Growing Healthy Children Chico Walk/Run Event Saturday, May 9th

9th Annual Growing Healthy Children Walk/Run Event. 5K, 1 mile, and shorter sprints for young children (under 5). Online Registration is now OPEN! Visit the link to register your family! www.growinghealthychildrenchico.com/register. In addition to the walk/ run event, there will be several drawings for bicycles from Pullin’s Cyclery, fun activities for kids, cultural dance performances, music, refreshments, and more!

Brick Builderz Festival & Family Fun Day! Saturday and Sunday, May 9th & 10th

Food, music and activities all sponsored by Bricks 4 Kidz! 30 ft motorized LEGO® display, LEGO® Exhibition from local youth and school teams. Enter your own creation, win prizes, all ages welcome! Pre-registration required. 628 Wall St, Saturday-12-4pm and Sunday 11am-3pm, $2 indivudal, $5 family. Please contact Bricks 4 Kidz at 3329172 for more details.

Kidz Night Out at Bricks 4 Kidz Friday, May 15th

Held from 6pm - 9pm. Pizza, Games, movies & LEGO® fun! Call 332-9172 or go to www.bricks4kidz.com for more details.

Eat, Sleep, Repeat- The basics of newborn care Sunday, May 17th

This 2 hour class teaches the basics of caring for a newborn. We will cover what to expect the first few weeks & practice the hands-on skills of feeding, changing, swaddling, & baby wearing. Participants receive a FREE newborn care guide with online video support. $50/ couple or single. From 4-6 pm. www.theNestChico.com

Chico Museum’s Country Supper Annual Fund Raiser Sunday, May 17th

Held at the Patrick Ranch Museum. For more details please go to: www. patrickranchmuseum.org.

41st Annual Red Bluff River Park Car Show Sunday, May 17th

The Contemporary Historical Vehicle Association, Mt Shasta Region, invites you to relax in the shade at the Red Bluff River Park Car Show. Street legal cars and trucks, original, customs, and even Rat Rods welcome. Bring the kids, neighbors and relatives, because spectators are free. $15 entry fee at the gate. Enter at Main and Willow Street, Red Bluff. 100 River Park Way, 347-3109.

Sherwoodstock Saturday, May 23rd

Sherwoodstock is a live music festival and fundraiser for Sherwood Montessori School.

Delicious Food and beverage. Dancing and crafts and activities for kids. Family friendly and fun for all! All proceeds benefit Sherwood Montessori Public Charter School Location: 2500 Estes Road, Chico. Held from 4-8pm.

Citizen Science Outings Sunday, May 24th

Butte Environmental Council invites the community to join in for a scientific exploration of Big Chico Creek. These field trips are for everyone awed by the wonders of nature and who have a spirit for learning. This is a free event, however space is limited and participants need to register at www.becnet.org or by calling 891-6424.

Chi Challenge Camp Monday, May 25th

Held at Bricks 4 Kidz from 9am - 12pm with Open Play available until 5pm. Call 332-9172 or go to www.bricks4kidz.com for more details.

Peter Pan Jr. Sunday, May 31st

Wendy Darling loves to tell stories to her brothers, Michael and John. But when Wendy’s father announces she must move out of the nursery, Peter Pan comes to visit the children and whisks them away to Neverland. Based on the beloved Disney film Peter Pan, this musical by kids for kids is a modern version of the timeless tale about a boy who wouldn’t grow up. Held at Laxson Auditorium, please go to www. chicoperformances.com for more details.

June Full Moon Wellness Treatments for Kids, Newborn through 7 Years Tuesday, June 2nd

$10 per child. Gentle, non-invasive Traditional Japanese technique. Held at Chico Community Acupuncture from 2-7pm, 1815 Mangrove Ave. Please call 345-5300 for more info.

YMCA Kids Adventure Day Saturday, June 6th

This event will take place in front of the YMCA. Kids Adventure Day is a free event for the family. Kicking off summer, this event will include games and activities hosted by different agencies. There will be animals to pet, free pancake breakfast (until supplies run out), and information about our Summer Camp and Swim Lessons. 1684 Robinson Street, Oroville 8-11am.

13th Annual Country Faire & Threshing Bee Saturday and Sunday, June 6th and 7th

Artisan Faire, Draft Horses, old fashioned wheat harvest, bee and sheep dog demonstrations, car show, tram rides, museum tours, food vendors, farm animals and children’s activities. Held at the Patrick Ranch Museum. For more details please go to: www.patrickranchmuseum.org.

Citizen Science Outings Sunday, June 7th

Butte Environmental Council invites the community to join in for a scientific exploration of Big Chico Creek. Each event will focus on the scientific wonders from two fields of study to deepen our understanding and appreciation of the creek that runs through our lives.

These field trips are for everyone awed by the wonders of nature, and who have a spirit for learning. This is a free event; however, space is limited and participants need to register at www.becnet.org or by calling 891-6424.

An Evening with Italian Cottage Thursday, June 11th

Chico Chamber of Commerce presents its 53rd Annual Community Celebration, “AN EVENING WITH ITALIAN COTTAGE,” HONORING 50 YEARS OF A LOCAL LEGEND. Remember the Industrial BBQ? This is a fresh, new take on our long-standing community celebration!

Join us for an evening under the stars, enjoying the classic cuisine of Italian Cottage, music and dancing to the Decades, and other surprises! Get your tickets soon! Patrick Ranch Museum, 5:30pm, www.chicochamber.com.

Lord’s Gym Mud Run & Kids Mud Run Saturday, June 13th

The Lord’s Gym Mud Run will test your strength, endurance, perseverance and metal toughness. Boasting some of the coolest scenery and terrains around, while also implementing some of our insanely creative and difficult obstacles, you and your friends will enjoy one of the area’s finest military-style mud obstacle courses! 4 Mile course. Separate course for kids ages 4-12. Please go to www.lordsgymmudrun.com for more details.

Kidz Night Out at Bricks 4 Kidz Friday, June 19th

Held from 6pm - 9pm. Pizza, Games, movies & LEGO® fun! Call 332-9172 or go to www. bricks4kidz.com for more details.

Movies in the Park Saturday, June 20th

Come and enjoy this summer tradition! Every summer, hundreds of families enjoy free Movies in the Park. Bring a blanket or a low back chair and sit under the stars while enjoying a family friendly movie. Refreshments will be available to purchase. All movies will start approximately 15 minutes after sunset. Location: Sycamore Field, Bidwell Park. www.chicorec.com.

Driving to FIGHT! Autism Monday, June 22nd

Calling all super heroes to golf for a good time! Did you know that Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder, YET the most underfunded? Autism costs a family $60,000 a year on average. CRBR raised over $15k locally for Autism Research & Services last year.

We are raising the bar this year and looking to do bigger and better things! Butte Creek Country Club, 8:30 w/a 9:30 Shotgun start. For more info please call 513-1078.

July Full Moon Wellness Treatments for Kids, Newborn through 7 Years Wednesday, July 1st

$10 per child. Gentle, non-invasive, Traditional Japanese technique. Held at Chico Community Acupuncture from 9am-2pm, 1815 Mangrove Ave. Please call 345-5300 for more info.

Chico’s 49th Annual 4th of July Celebration Saturday, July 4th

One Mile Dam Recreation Area in Bidwell Park. Celebrate the 4th of July with CARD, Do-It Leisure, the Chico Rotary and the Chico Parks Department. 7:00 AM Independence Day 5K $25 Reg. Fee (Chico Running Club).7:30-11:00 AM Pancake Breakfast (Do-It Leisure). 8:30-9:15 AM “LET FREEDOM RING” (Guest Speaker). 9:15-10:00 AM CHICO COMMUNITY CONCERT BAND. 10:00-10:30 AM Fife and Drum Band Performs. Spectators bring your own lawn chairs. www.chicorec.com.

Fireworks Over Lake Oroville Saturday, July 4th

Starts at approximately 9 pm. Free to the public to view from atop the dam. Find them on facebook, Lake Oroville Fireworks for more detail.

Slice of Chico Saturday, July 11th

Downtown Chico’s merchants invite the community downtown for a day filled with great shopping, hot prices and FREE slices of ice-cold watermelon. www.downtownchico.com.

4th Annual Growing Up Chico Night Thursday, July 16th

Please join us for Growing Up Chico’s 4th annual family fun night in the downtown city plaza from 6-9pm.There will be many booths with children’s activities, family resource information, children’s dance and music performances and much more! For up to date details, please like “Growing Up Chico Magazine” on facebook. For booth information please contact Rachele at rachele@growingupchico.com.

Kidz Night Out at Bricks 4 Kidz Friday, July 17th

Held from 6pm - 9pm. Pizza, Games, movies & LEGO® fun! Call 332-9172 or go to www.bricks4kidz.com for more details.

Movies in the Park Saturday, July 18th

Come and enjoy this summer tradition! Every summer, hundreds of families enjoy free Movies in the Park. Bring a blanket or a low back chair and sit under the stars while enjoying a family friendly movie. Refreshments will be available to purchase. All movies will start approximately 15 minutes after sunset. Location: Sycamore Field, Bidwell Park. www.chicorec.com.

Full Moon Wellness Treatments for Kids, Newborn through 7 Years Friday, July 31st

$10 per child. Gentle, non-invasive, Traditional Japanese technique. Held at Chico Community Acupuncture from 9am-2pm, 1815 Mangrove Ave. Please call 345-5300 for more info.

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

Chico Creek Dance Center:

Chico Creek Dance Centre’s extraordinary team of instructors provides dance classes for all ages, all levels, and all styles. Now offering predance classes, too. 1144 W. 1st St, Chico, 893.9028, www.chicocreekdancecentre.com.

Chico DOJO: We

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

Chico Rockstars: We

offer music lessons in guitar, drums, bass, piano, voice, audio recording, and more! Private, Semi-Private, and Band Lessons, as well as Group Classes.

932 West 8th Ave., 809-4932, Chico, www.chicorockstars.com or find them on facebook.

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

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

JEI Learning Center:

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

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

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

The Nest: The Nest is a collection of highly trained professionals serving women and their families. From pregnancy to birth and through the postpartum period we provide a range of services, classes, and events to support and empower our clients and their families. 7 Govenors Ln, Chico, 828-1900, www.theNestChico.com

The Wright Keys:

At The Wright Keys, you will find lessons and classes for piano, voice, guitar, bass, violin, flute, percussion, mandolin, brass and woodwind instruments.

The Wright Keys also offers preschool music classes and music therapy. 556 Vallombrosa Ave., Chico, 781-2224, www.thewrightkeys.com.

directories

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

Ages

Hours

Curriculum

Contact

Chico Country Day Preschool

3-6 years

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

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

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

T

Chico Montessori Children’s House

2.9-5 years

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

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

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Creative Outlets In-Home Preschool

2-6 years

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

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

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

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

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

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

D L T S

Kids Park

2-12 years

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

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

La Casita Primera Preschool

2.9-5 years

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

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

Little Sprouts Preschool

2-5 years

7am-6pm Monday-Friday

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

D L A S Y

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

Nutritious snacks and lunch included.

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

D L Y S

Parkside Daycare

0-9 years

6am-6pm Monday-Friday

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

D L A S

Valley Oaks Children’s Services, (VOCS)

Referrals for infants12 years

Varies

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

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

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

Wood Family Farm

3-8 years

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

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

343-7120 www.WoodFamilyFarm.net

D L T A S Y

License # 045404389

License # 045406630

www.growingupchico.com www.growingupchico.com

License # 045405971

License # 045404701, 045404702

License # 045406027

License # 045405784

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

License # 045405614

License# 045406227

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

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

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

L T S

D L S

Growing Up Chico’s Business Directory Apple Blossom Baby: Book Family Farm: Butte County 4 H: Bricks 4 Kidz: California Regional Theatre: Chico Chamber of Commerce: Chico Children’s Museum

Chico Community Acupuncture: Chico Country Day School: Chico Creek Dance Centre: Chico Creek Nature Center: Chico Dojo: Chico Doula Circle: Chico Massage Studio: Chico Mothers’ Club: Chico Pediatric Dentistry:

Chico Performances: Chico Pops: Chico Rockstars: Chico Sports Club: Cool Kidz Cuts: Creative Outlets Preschool: Dignity Health, St. Elizabeth’s Community Hospital: Downtown Chico Business Association: Dr. Sterzer: Dragonfly Playschool: Family Eye Care Optometry: Feather River Hospital: Forest Ranch Charter School: FunLand Cal Skate:

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Funny Faces Chico:

Gateway Science Museum: HYPE Dance Studio: HypnoBirthing: In Motion Fitness: Inspire School of Arts & Sciences: JEI Learning Center: Kids In Motion (In Motion Fitness): Kids Park:

Lavender Ranch: Little Sprouts Preschool: Mothers Strong: Patrick Ranch Museum: Progressive Schoolhouse: PTL Pediatric Day Health Center: Rejuvene: Rose Scott School: Round Table Pizza: Strong Beginnings: Supportive Conceptions Surrogacy Agency: Tami Oberg Photography: The Creative Apple: The Nest: The Wright Keys: Thrive Learning Center: Turner Forte Photography: Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology: Watersprites Swim School: Wood Family Farm Preschool: Youthful Smiles Dentistry:

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