When Darci and James Crossin first sat down to map out a plan for their maternity and baby goods store, Chico’s Apple Blossom Baby, circle times were part of that original vision. “I taught preschool for 12 years,” says Darci, “and circle time was always one of my favorite parts of the day. Our original location hosted playgroups and I really missed that at our new space, so it was always in my head to bring back a space where we can host family-orientated events.”
The store is well-loved, and with a recent expansion, Circle Time has begun! Held each Thursday morning before the store opens, Apple Blossom’s Circle Times offer moments in the day where moms, dads, grandparents, infants, toddlers and preschoolers are invited to come together in a creatively stimulating environment.
“Circle time is a cornerstone of most preschool curriculums,” Darci explains. “It’s a combination of books, songs, poems, flannel board activities, dancing, parachute play and more. There is something new every week which keeps it fresh, but each session has an underlying theme which allows the families to learn the songs and gives the children something to look forward to each week. Preschool skills are gently incorporated but it is really just a fun way for families to engage with each other.”
“It’s all very casual and easy,” says Darci. Activities are adapted to ages and interests of the day’s participants. “Our last Circle Time was all families with babies, so we slowed things down a bit, read a shorter book, and crawled around a little more. Even though the focus is on preschool-aged children, it really is something everyone can enjoy.”
Circle Time takes place Thursdays from 9:15-10am. Attendance is free, and anyone can join the fun. Space is limited though: “We want everyone to have room to dance and play, so we are keeping it to the first 10 families. It hasn’t been a problem yet, but if we get too full then we will probably just open up another time slot.”
Darci adds, “We have a beautiful space, and it’s also available for members of the community who would like to share their skills and experience with others. We’d love to have yoga teachers come do a demonstration of yoga for pregnant moms, or yoga for kids, for example. Currently we offer cloth diaper classes, Mini Photo Sessions with Nicole Roberts Photography, and Young Living Oils classes in addition to Circle Time.”
Check the store’s Facebook page to confirm the weekly schedule for Circle Time and other activities. Apple Blossom Baby is located at 1372 Longfellow Ave. in Chico. For more information, visitappleblossombaby.com, or call (530) 345-1617.
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