BH Parent Fall 2019 by Evergreen Media

BHPARENT FALL 2019

LOCAL LIFE

TIME FOR SCHOOL THE TIME-SAVERS, RESOURCES, AND TIPS TO MAKE IT THE BEST YEAR EVER

TRANSITIONS & CHANGES NAVIGATING A NEW GRADE HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER

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College Planning Give your child the freedom to dream with CollegeAccess 529 No gift is greater than an education. To learn how to start saving today visit www.collegeaccess529.com. Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of CollegeAccess 529 Plan before investing. This and other information is contained in the current Plan Disclosure Statement. Before investing, investors should read the Plan Disclosure Statement carefully, and consider whether their state of residency – or their intended Designated Beneficiary’s state of residency – offers any benefit, such as a state tax deduction, which are only available for investments in that state’s 529 savings program. Only South Dakota residents and Account Owners who designate a South Dakota resident as Beneficiary can invest directly in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan. Certain Portfolios are not available to those who invest directly. Residents of states other than South Dakota can invest in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan only through a financial advisor. Additional fees apply for investments made through a financial advisor. Please see the Plan Disclosure Statement for details. State taxes may apply for residents of states other than South Dakota. CollegeAccess 529 Plan is a section 529 college savings plan sponsored by the State of South Dakota, and managed by Allianz Global Investors Distributors LLC. Notice: The account is not insured by any state, and neither the principal deposited nor any investment return is guaranteed by any state. Furthermore, the account is not insured, nor the principal or any investment returns guaranteed, by the federal government or any federal agency. 637454 | 03482

CONTENTS

18 BHPARENT FALL 2019

LOCAL LIFE

TIME FOR SCHOOL THE TIME-SAVERS, RESOURCES, AND TIPS TO MAKE IT THE BEST YEAR EVER

22 Fall in the Black Hills is a season of apparent transition. School is back in session, the leaves begin to change, and we begin to bundle up for an upcoming winter. We hope this issue will give you the ideas and tips needed to make your transistions easier.

TRANSITIONS & CHANGES NAVIGATING A NEW GRADE HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER

BHPARENT Publisher, Owner Rick DenHerder 605.343.7684 ext. 203 Managing Director Jenna Carda Creative Director John Edwards Digital Director John Eining Senior Designer Chris Valencia Photographer Jesse Brown Nelson Senior Content Writer Mark Petruska Creative Services Coordinator Mackenzie Yordy Social Media Manager Jenna Johnson Office Assistant Alix Schaeffer Communications Intern Sarah Richards Distribution Richard Alley Contributors Shari Medini, Christa Melnyk Hines © Black Hills Parent. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the expressed consent of the publisher is prohibited. The information included in this publication is believed to be accurate at the time of publishing. Additional advertiser information and articles are available online at blackhillsparent.com. Black Hills Parent magazine is a free, quarterly publication distributed throughout black hills area communities—from Rapid City to Spearfish, Deadwood to Hill City, Custer to Hot Springs, and every place in between, including: schools, medical and dental waiting areas, childcare facilities, specialty retailers, and other key locations in this area. Get an exclusive look at Black Hills Parent through our e-letter at blackhillsparent.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates.

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26 BACK TO SCHOOL 08 Map to Mornings With these steps, you’ll be out the door in no time.

10 Road to Success Ways to make your family’s lives easier with tools and resources available to you in the Black Hills. 13 Five Senses of Fall Say ‘goodbye’ to the heat and ‘hello’ the best season of them all – fall! 18 Dancing to New Heights Rapid City teen, Mary Vallet’s passion for dance is taking her to the next level. 22 Bringing Deadwood History to Life Local authors and an illustrator join together to create a kids’ series on prominent Deadwood characters.

40 26 Big Changes Easing your student’s transition between grade levels 30 Teens & Time Management A breakdown of ideas to teach your teen time management this school year. 32 Showing Appreciation The smallest gestures can have a big impact. Here are ideas to try. 38 Resolving Child-Teacher Conflict What is a parent to do when conflict arises? We have the steps to take! 40 Explain Your Why Help your little one become a skilled decision maker by explaining “why”.

42 EVERY ISSUE 47 Column: Education RCAS: STEAM2

48 Column: Finances BHParent: Saving for College 49 Column: Finances Thrivent Financial: Building Wealth

56 VISIT US ONLINE Scoop on Seasonal Favorites More Family-Friendly Events DIY Projects for Kids Coloring Projects Local Area Resources at blackhillsparent.com

51 Column: Health Regional Health: Making the Move 56 Black Hills Cuties Proudly supported by Vast Broadband 58 Calendar Fall events in the Black Hills from September through November

42 Inspiring Hope Early Childhood Connections is giving parents and child care providers the tools and resources to make an impact in children’s lives. BHPARENT 7

PROUDLY SUPPORTING EASY MORNINGS

A MAP TO MORNINGS We all know mornings can be chaotic for parents and kids alike during those first few weeks of the new school year. Packing lunches, making sure teeth are brushed, gym clothes are ready and permission slips are filled out make for hectic mornings! Keep these tips in mind to help you stay sane while you adjust to a new routine. To save valuable time, take a few minutes the night before to help plan your morning. Help your kids choose outfits for the following day and gather all supplies. Teach your kids to put their bags and essentials in one spot so they don’t forget anything when they’re ready to go. This is an easy way for you to organize anything you need for the next day, as well! Kids learn by example, so grab your essentials and put them in the same central location as your kids’ supplies.

Tame “Bed Head”

Divert their attention by turning on cartoons while brushing their hair.

Food Fuel Begin each day with a tasty breakfast.

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Start Good Habits

As soon as your kids get up, have them make their bed. When they are old enough, hold them accountable to themselves by having them set their own alarms! Why Make Habits and Routines? Creating a routine is hard when children are young. Kids have short attention spans and tend to want to do their own thing. Instilling routines and good habits, like washing their hands after going to the bathroom, helps teach them self-control, which will set them up for success later in life. Children typically develop habits by age nine, so the earlier you start, the more likely they will keep doing them for years to come.

Get Dressed

It’s common to want to change out of pajamas right away, but delay this step! Wait until after the kids have had a chance to spill breakfast or smear toothpaste onto their pajamas to avoid having to change again. Quick Tip: Don’t forget to pay attention to the weather; you don’t want your child stepping outdoors on a wintry day wearing shorts!

Brush Teeth

Younger kids often put up a fight when it comes to brushing their teeth. Turn this “chore” into a fun activity by playing their favorite song or making up a fairy-tale character who brushes the bad guys away. Quick Tip: If you’re a family that likes to watch TV in the morning, take advantage of a commercial break to get that brushing done!

Grab Your Backpack and Lunch Box

It’s a good idea to do a final check before you head out the door. Make sure your kids have their homework, gym clothes, lunch, and anything else they might need for the day. Now, it’s time for school! Enjoy a nice walk together, or say your goodbyes as you drop the kids off or they head out to the bus stop.

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BHPARENT 9

ROAD TO

SUCCESS Planning day-to-day activities for your kids can be mind-boggling, so we gathered resources and tips for the long haul on the road to success! Groceries

“Mom, can I have this!? Mom, can I have this too?” Loading the kids in the car and keeping them calm at the grocery store can be intimidating for everyone. If you like to shop in person, go on the least busiest days or save yourself the hassle by ordering online for delivery or pickup. Several local grocers offer this service including Safeway, Walmart or Family Fare’s “Fast Lane.” Shop from anywhere and save yourself the time in line!

Organization

Make lists and calendars for the family and individual members – this helps you and everyone else know what is going on and how to manage time. Go digital! Share a Slack channel, or get a family calendar using Google, Cozi, or FamCal.

Meal Prep

On top of using slow cookers throughout the work week, make large batches of meals. You might not eat a whole pot of pasta or soup, but you can always throw leftovers in your freezer for a later date!

Cleaning

Make chores fun again. Create a game for the kids to help keep them interested and motivated in helping clean. Contests are a big hit, and you can have an exciting “prize” or silly consequence for last place. Alternatively, try multitasking! While you’re waiting for supper to cook, fill the dishwasher and pick up the kitchen.

Bill Pay

Worried about missing a payment? Schedule an online BillPay service to withdraw payments on time and sit down once or twice a month to double-check and review finances. 10 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

STUDENT EDUCATION RESOURCES

PROUDLY SUPPORTING TIME SAVERS

QUICK TIP: the most effective way to study is in intervals of 30-50 minutes with a 10-minute break.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Run by United Way of the Black Hills, this program sends a book each month to families anywhere from Edgemont to Belle Fouche with children under five.

Why Encourage Reading?

It’s important to encourage reading at a young age for a number of reasons. Reading earlier leads kids to have a more expansive vocabulary, better comprehension, and builds confidence. Kids who read earlier also develop better writing skills and do better in school. They can become more creative and empathetic.

Helpline Center

Servicing the Northern Hills, Southern Hills, and Rapid City individually, the Helpline Center has lists of resources to fit any family’s needs. They can help you set up your finances, start your career, help you find daycares, and more. Did you know the Helpline Center has a list of over 100 resources are readily available!

Tutoring

Are your kids struggling in a subject or prepping for ACTs and college? There are several online resources you can turn to including Sylvan Learning and Tutor Doctor that offer tutoring for kids K-12 in a variety of subjects as well as general tips for studying habits. You can also talk to your school district to see what after-school tutoring programs are available.

BHPARENT 11

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AUTUMN SEASONS

words Sarah Richards Illustration Mackenzie Yordy

Five Senses of Fall Say ‘goodbye’ to the sizzling heat of the summer and ‘hello’ to fall! What makes you most excited for fall? Maybe it’s because America’s favorite sport, football, is in full swing, or the kids are back in school. Not to mention everyone’s favorite TV shows are back on the air, the weather is dreamy, and we have an extra hour of darkness (which means it’s easier to sleep)! Fall has its own unique atmosphere that anyone can find appealing. Every single time you step out the door, it hits you like a brick wall. The smells flood in from the fresh wisps of crisp autumn air, and the color is warm and inviting. All five senses are filled in the fall.

Smells

Fragrances from fall are powerful and more often than not, delightful. Some of our favorites revolve around food! Savor the scent of a fresh baked pie as it fills the house after teaching your kids how to bake, or take a deep breath and enjoy the smell of cinnamon while drinking cider. You might think that pumpkin is a top seller for fragrances and candles, but really, it’s a mix of more than that. Handmade candles by Pine-Clad Candle Company are a big hit in the Hills. Some of their best fall sellers are Apple Cider Donut, Woodland Foliage, and Fall Magic. The latter are made of oranges, peaches, and apples, surrounded by cloves and cinnamon with a warm background of Tonka and sweet vanilla. Fall emits an earthy aroma that is indescribable yet distinct.

Sights

In the Black Hills, the color of fall is fairly unique. There is still so much life in the green pine trees, but you also have colorful yellows and oranges from birches and other deciduous trees. You can also see your breath in the morning air or the fog BHPARENT 13

Science Behind Fall Did you know? Laci Prucinsky, naturalist at Custer State Park, answers questions about what to expect in the fall and the why behind it! rolling in from the hills. The wildlife has begun scurrying and preparing for winter hibernations, and as you drive through town the whole family can admire the decorations on homes everywhere!

Sounds

Listen to the crowd cheer for your hometown football team while cheerleaders encourage the players. Sit quietly around a bonfire and enjoy the peaceful crackle in your backyard. Walk downtown and hear the delicate leaves falling, signaling a change. Fall is an opportunity for new beginnings!

Sensations

One of the great things about fall weather is layers! You can climb back into your fuzzy socks and wear blanket scarves or enjoy a simple warm sweater. The whole family can feel cozy and comfortable outdoors when enjoying the park on a brisk day. Take a moment and build a pile of fallen leaves with the kids and watch as they jump into the crunchy pillow-like mess.

Tastes

Soups and stews begin making their way back onto the dining room table, as well as pumpkin everything. Pumpkin pies, pumpkin bread, pumpkin coffee, pumpkin bars, pumpkin cereal! Of course, most of these novelties are only on shelves and in stores for a limited time, so search for them early! Other big flavors include hot chocolate, apple cider, spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, and seasonal treats like popcorn balls and candy corn.

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Q: What causes leaves to change colors? A: In the autumn, we begin to experience shorter days, longer nights, and cooling temperatures, which cause the production of chlorophyll, the pigment that makes leaves green, to slow and eventually stop. This allows the other colors to shine through! Q: Why does the weather change? A: During the summer, the northern hemisphere is tilted more toward the sun and receives more direct sunlight, which means warmer temperatures. During the winter, the opposite happens. Fall is the transition phase between these two seasons, making the temperature just right. Q: What are the main differences between coniferous and deciduous trees? A: The main difference is that coniferous trees donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose their leaves in the fall and winter. Deciduous trees also have broader leaves. On top of the leaves and cycle, conifer seeds are in the cones!

Try out this fall favorite recipe: Clean Eating Pumpkin Chili Ingredients 1 lb. ground meat (turkey, beef, venison, or buffalo) 1 onion, diced 1 orange bell pepper, diced 15 oz can pumpkin puree 15 oz petite diced tomatoes 15 oz tomato sauce 15 oz chili beans, undrained 15 oz kidney beans, undrained 2 cups water 4 tsp chili powder 1 Tbsp ground cumin 1 tsp garlic powder 1/4 tsp cayenne powder 1 1/2 tsp sea salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 2 Tbsp honey 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp allspice 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Q: What changes in wildlife can you see and hear? A: It is common to hear a male elk bugle in the distance as it warns challengers off. Elk, mule deer, and white-tailed deer will also have their full armor as their antlers are done growing and the soft, velvet covering has been shed. You can also hear the clacking as bucks fight for dominance. Q: Why do the birds migrate south? A: Finding food sources in the Black Hills, as a bird, can be difficult in colder weather because their normal food sources arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as available, so some animals and birds like Canadian geese, American robins, and painted lady butterflies go south to find food. Q: What can hikers expect to see on trails? A: In the fall, hikers might be lucky to find elderberries or raspberries that birds and other animals have left, as well as fallblooming flowers like sunflowers, asters, blanket flowers, and woolly verbena. Q: What produce is popular in the fall? A: Apples, pumpkins, squash and my personal favorite, Brussels sprouts!

Instructions In a large soup pot, brown the ground meat. Add in the remaining ingredients and bring to a simmer. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. Let the chili rest for 15 minutes and serve it in a bowl with tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream (or try plain Greek yogurt!), or sliced avocado. The recipe serves 8, so store your leftovers in the refrigerator or freeze them for the winter months! Recipe from Sammi Rickie, owner of Grounded & Surrounded

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BHPARENT 3

Growing Dancers, One Step at a Time

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DANCING TO NEW HEIGHTS Rapid City teen Mary Valletteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion for dance is taking her to the next level.

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DANCE AMAZING KIDS

“Work hard,” Mary says. “Don’t give up, even if you hear people say you aren’t strong or flexible enough. Look at Misty Copeland, the first African-American dancer (to be promoted to principal dancer for the American Ballet Theatre). She worked hard to get to where she is now. Always work as hard as you can to follow your dreams!”

words Mark Petruska images Jesse Brown Nelson

Tina Vallette never planned on her daughter, Mary, taking such a passionate interest in dance. “When I first signed her up, it was recreational. We lived in Nebraska, out in the country, and needed something to do,” she says with a laugh. “It was a way to mingle with other people.” Mary, who turned 13 on August 11, has moved well past the mingling stage. She has been dancing since the age of two, mostly contemporary and lyrical, with hip-hop, tap, and ballet to help with her technique. All that hard work is paying off; currently in her fourth year at Barefoot Dance Studio in Rapid City, Mary was nominated for Dancer of the Year in the national finals for her solo in the Celebration Dance competition, facing off against students from 10 other dance studios around the country. “That was really exciting, honestly,” the bubbly teen says. “Not a lot of people get to do competition; when you get a really big award like that, you feel like you’re actually good!” Eclipsing even that achievement were invitations for Mary to train with the Colorado Ballet in Denver this summer

and participate in an intensive four-week training course with the Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Mary has the distinction of being the first girl ever selected from South Dakota to attend the latter camp. Both opportunities have kept Mary busy throughout the summer, but despite the fact that she was away from friends and family for an extended period, she considers the experience well worth the sacrifice. At Perry-Mansfield, she took three core classes and two electives, immersing herself in a mix of modern, ballet, contemporary, and improvisational dance. She got to work with top-notch choreographers like Maya Taylor, who was nominated for a VMA award while Mary was there, and enjoyed meeting new people from all over the country. Her two-week stint with the Colorado Ballet was, naturally, more ballet-focused; she worked with different teachers to learn a variety of styles, practicing ballet for two hours and pointe for 90 minutes every day. All told, Mary put in more than 400 hours of practice in two months, dedicating

BHPARENT 19

about 48 hours per week toward dance. That torrid pace continued in August with a six-day convention and dance classes in Washington, D.C. Mary started 8th grade at Stagebarn Middle School and her practice time has since dropped to 12 hours a week, which is still a significant investment in time when you factor in demands like schoolwork. No problem for Mary, who often completes her homework in the dance studio or on the drive over and still manages to maintain a 4.0 GPA—an accomplishment mom Tina can’t help but feel proud of. Devoting so much time to dancing isn’t without its sacrifices. One of the biggest is maintaining friendships. “You have people you want to keep in your life,” Mary says, “but you can’t because you have dance.” Despite this, she has no regrets. She thrives on the energy performing in front of others brings and can’t imagine a life without dance. If forced to pursue a different career path, she’d like to be an author or a singer, or perhaps do theater. Even though dance was originally intended to be nothing more than a recreational activity for Mary, Tina fully supports her daughter’s endeavor and is a little in awe of her talent. When asked what advice she would offer parents of kids who want to pursue dance, she doesn’t hesitate for a second. “Listen to their dancer,” she says. “Help them reach their dreams as much as they can. Let them try out for everything and anything.” Mary’s dreams center around a professional career in dance. She’d like to join an established dance company or start her own. Ideally, she would love to open a dance studio and help other young dancers pursue their own passions. One person who won’t be following in her footsteps is eight-year old sister, Elissa, who prefers basketball to dance. Mary has some advice of her own for those who do aspire to become dancers. “Work hard,” Mary says. “Don’t give up, even if you hear people say you aren’t strong or flexible enough. Look at Misty Copeland, the first African-American dancer (to be promoted to principal dancer for the American Ballet Theatre). She worked hard to get to where she is now. Always work as hard as you can to follow your dreams!” 20 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

Mary practiced up to 48 hours per week all summer long to refine her technique. She’s finding inspiration everywhere, from the dance studio to the great outdoors—and it’s paying off.

Bringing Deadwood’s History to Life Local teachers with a shared passion for history create children’s books to teach kids about the legends of Deadwood. words Mark Petruska Illustrations Alex Portal Robin Carmody and Betty Jo Huff first realized they had a shared passion for history when working together at First Step Childcare Center in Deadwood. Their mutual love of the subject sparked a desire to educate young children about the legends in their own backyard, laying the foundation for their well-received trilogy of children’s books on Deadwood history. A native of Dorchester, Massachusetts, Robin attended a history conference in the Black Hills in 1994 and was so

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enamored with the area she continued to visit almost every year. When she landed an opportunity to become the Director of Education and Support for First Step a few years ago, she jumped at the chance to move here permanently. Betty Jo has lived in South Dakota quite a few years longer, moving to the area while in high school. She was working as the lead Preschool Teacher at First Step when the pair met. The idea to team up for a children’s book isn’t as unlikely as it may appear at first. Robin’s short story, Wild Bill Played in My Backyard, was published in Deadwood Magazine years ago. And Betty Jo’s frequent attendance at writing conferences in the Black Hills helped fuel a strong interest in storytelling. The challenge was in sanitizing larger-than-life mythic figures like Wild Bill and Calamity Jane, whose exploits weren’t exactly G-rated, for a preschool audience. When asked how they set out to accomplish this, Betty Jo replied with a laugh, “Very carefully!” There’s more to the books than just history. Robin and Betty Jo worked very hard to incorporate geography and included aspects of friendship, caring,

BOOKS SPOTLIGHT

and modeling good behavior. For those interested in learning more, each book includes a list of suggestions for further reading. It’s one thing to write a children’s book, but Robin and Betty Jo knew that kids would want colorful illustrations, as well. That’s where Alex Portal came in. A reporter for the Black Hills Pioneer, Alex is also a talented illustrator and photographer, and provided the drawings for the stories. It became a true collaborative effort, and Alex was a very important part of the puzzle. All three would bounce ideas off one another while trying to get the stories just right. “Alex is remarkable,” Robin said. “He added different effects based on his own perspective. Sometimes he would look at the text and go, ‘what I think you’re trying to say is…,’ and he was right on the money!”

Colorful illustrations and kid-friendly history lessons make this book series impossible to resist!

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“We’re a team,” Betty Jo added. “We did it together! If we were stuck, we’d meet for coffee and mull things over.” Each book stars Jeremiah, a young boy who is visiting his Nana in Deadwood for the summer. In a nod to the military families stationed in the Black Hills, Jeremiah’s mother is deployed in the Army and hoping to end up stationed closer to South Dakota. The first title in the series, But Nana... Who Was Wild Bill?, follows Jeremiah and his Nana on a stroll through Deadwood. Along the way, he learns important facts about the famous frontiersman. The story is perfectly suitable for young children, and the illustrations are superimposed over photos of Deadwood landmarks, including the Whitewood Creek Trail and Mount Moriah Cemetery. Book #2 is called But Nana...What is Friendship Tower? Jeremiah and his Nana set out on a hike to the Friendship Tower on Mt. Roosevelt and learns that Seth Bullock built the tower as a monument to his close friend, Theodore Roosevelt. Photos of the Mickelson Trail, Friendship Tower, and Bear Butte make a picturesque backdrop for the illustrations. It was originally planned as the third release in the series, but they moved it up to coincide with the 100th anniversary celebration of the Friendship Tower on July 6, 2019. The third book, titled But Nana...Who Was Seth Bullock?, focuses on the famous lawman and first sheriff of Deadwood.

Kids will learn everything from the exploits of Wild Bill to where to find a great cheeseburger.

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Authors Betty Jo Huff & Robin Carmody, and Illustrator Alex Portal, show off the first books in their series.

It should be released in time for the upcoming South Dakota Festival of Books. With so much Deadwood history to draw upon, there is plenty of potential for additional books in the series. They already have three more on the backburner, but want to see how the first trilogy endures before committing to more titles. So far, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. “Kids love the books,” Betty Jo said. “They love the cartoons with real pictures, and being able to identify locations they are familiar with.” Children aren’t the only ones drawn to the books. They are written to appeal to people who don’t necessarily live in Deadwood—and

that includes adults. The books are displayed prominently in the Deadwood Welcome Center, where they attract plenty of attention from visitors of all ages. “A woman came in and wanted to buy the books because her grandchildren call her Nana,” Robin said. “Another little girl from back east wanted the books because she calls her grandma Nana!” Next up for the trio? They’ll be presenting at the 2019 South Dakota Festival of Books in Rapid City on October 3 and Deadwood on October 5. Both presentations take place at each city’s respective public libraries. In addition, they have various book signing events lined up for this fall, and have donated signed copies to community libraries where they currently live. They are also scheduling book readings at locations throughout the area. It’s all a bit of a whirlwind, but one they are happy to be involved in. “Finally seeing our finished product has been very gratifying,” Robin said. “I call the whole process ‘the two-and-a-half-year pregnancy!’”

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BIG CHANGES

PREPARE BACK TO SCHOOL

Kindergarten to First Grade

EASING THE TRANSITION BETWEEN GRADE LEVELS.

There are steps you can take to prepare your kids for a new school routine to help make the transition an easier one— for both of you!

The first major transition in a child’s academic life involves making the leap from kindergarten to first grade. Gone are nap times and half-days; your child must get used to a more structured environment that emphasizes learning over playing, and will be attending school all day long. They may have their own desk instead of a table and cubbyholes, and might be eating lunch away from home for the first time in their young lives. These experiences are both exciting and intimidating; the following tips will help prepare your child for this new chapter in his or her life.

•V ISIT THE SCHOOL WITH YOUR CHILD AHEAD OF TIME. This will help them become familiar with their classroom and other new surroundings, as well as the route there, so they’ll feel less overwhelmed on the first day. If there is a formal orientation, they’ll have an opportunity to meet their teacher and maybe even ride the bus. •A LWAYS SPEAK POSITIVELY ABOUT GOING TO SCHOOL. Emphasize the fact that they’ll be learning to read and write soon. Kids love to feel grown up! Your excitement and enthusiasm should prove contagious. •E STABLISH A ROUTINE BEFORE THE FIRST DAY. Make sure your child goes to bed early and wakes up on time. Encourage them to choose an outfit, have their backpack ready, and pack a lunch each evening before bed. •B E PREPARED FOR A LITTLE FUSSINESS AT FIRST. Your child will be experiencing a lot of new things and may lash out or cry for a few weeks. Practice patience and leniency; before long, first grade will become second nature!

words Mark Petruska photos Jesse Brown Nelson

Change is exciting, but it can also be uncomfortable and a little bit scary. One of the biggest sources of tension children face is transitioning to a new grade level, especially if they are making the jump from elementary to middle school, or moving from middle to high school. BHPARENT 27

Elementary to Middle School Middle school means a bigger campus, multiple teachers and classrooms, and increased responsibilities. The combination of early adolescence and new experiences, such as lockers for storage and moving from the highest grade to the lowest, can make even the best student feel a bit overwhelmed. The following tips will help your child ease into middle school.

Middle to High School The transition to high school brings many of the same concerns as moving to middle school, but on an even larger scale. There are more students, more classes, a bigger campus, and a whole new set of fears. Kids worry about making new friends, tackling a heavier workload, participating in extracurricular activities, and choosing the right electives—all while dealing with the demands of adolescence. It’s an exciting and scary time, but the following tips will help make it less stressful.

28 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

•A TTEND AN ORIENTATION OR CAMPUS TOUR WITH YOUR CHILD. This will give them a preview of the campus layout and they might have a chance to try out their combination locker—always an area of concern for kids used to remaining in one classroom all day. •O BTAIN A COPY OF THE STUDENT HANDBOOK and review the different rules and requirements with your child so they have a thorough understanding of what is expected of them. •O NCE YOUR CHILD RECEIVES THEIR CLASS SCHEDULE, check online for a map of the school and have them memorize the location of their classes, locker, lunchroom, and bus stop. •T EACH YOUR CHILD TO BE THEIR OWN ADVOCATE. Whether they are having trouble with bullies, have questions about homework assignments, or could benefit from extra tutoring, let them know that middle school is the time to embrace their independence.

•N OW IS THE TIME TO ESTABLISH ROUTINES AND ENCOURAGE GOOD WORK HABITS. There’s a lot to balance in high school; classes, homework, after-school activities, social life, and jobs all compete for your teen’s attention. Set priorities—a consistent schedule is a must for ensuring homework is completed and extracurricular commitments are honored. •E NCOURAGE INDEPENDENCE. The high school years are a bridge to adulthood and a time for your child to learn how to confront challenges on their own. This doesn’t mean disappearing completely from the picture, however—just take a step back. •K EEP THE LINES OF COMMUNICATION OPEN. Check in with your child periodically to learn how their classes are going and whether they need help with anything. Make it a priority to eat dinner together as a family at least a couple of times a week.

Making the transition to a higher grade level means bigger classes, a larger campus, and more responsibility. Parents, teachers, and students can prepare for a successful school year in the Black Hills by working together.

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IT’S TIME TO TEACH YOUR TEEN TIME MANAGEMENT words Mark Petruska Teenagers have a lot of competing demands. Homework, extracurricular activities, friends, jobs, and chores all vie for their attention. Learning how to set priorities and manage their time wisely is a skill that will serve them well in adulthood. Waiting until the last minute can backfire. If your student waits until Sunday night to complete an assignment due the next morning and a thunderstorm knocks out power, they risk turning in their work late. An occasional poor grade is one thing, but in the real world, a missed deadline will have much bigger repercussions. Teaching your teen time management skills now will benefit them in the following ways: 30 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

Their grades will improve They’ll learn responsibility and independence There will be less anxiety and stress as deadlines approach They’ll have more free time to spend with friends and family They’ll develop good habits that will carry over to their career

TEENS BACK TO SCHOOL

PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH

Be a good role model by managing your own time wisely. If you’re always scrambling to make it out the door on time or constantly missing appointments, you’re sending a message that time management isn’t a top priority.

TEACH YOUR TEEN TO FOCUS ON TIME

Some teens have a very limited awareness of time. You can help them better understand the concept by having them wear a watch, making sure there are plenty of analog clocks in the house (allowing them to visually recognize elapsed time), and using a timer when working on school assignments.

PROVIDE TIME MANAGEMENT TOOLS

Visualization is key when it comes to managing an abstract concept such as time. Invest in an academic planner or assignment book, encourage them to write to-do lists, use calendars, and set alarms. Many of these tools are available as free smartphone apps. This is fine, but having a visual will benefit your student in the long run.

ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS

Technology is beneficial in many ways, but smartphones and other electronic devices can be huge distractions. Set limits on their use and monitor your child’s social media habits and video game playing time to make sure they don’t interfere with homework and other priorities.

ESTABLISH ROUTINES

Kids might balk over too rigid a structure, but routines are a great way to help them learn to prioritize tasks and manage time. Consistency is key; serving meals at the same time every evening, setting aside certain hours for homework, and insisting on a regular bedtime will eliminate any confusion over what your child should be focusing on at any given moment.

BHPARENT 31

A customized vase with pencils or markers is both colorful and practical.

32 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

Handwritten notes make clever, heartfelt gifts.

APPRECIATION BACK TO SCHOOL

Simple Gestures Make Strong Statements Let your teacher know you appreciate them with a token of gratitude straight from the heart.

Being a teacher is often challenging and thankless. Teachers join the education profession in hopes of making a difference or positive impact in someone’s life. Showing your appreciation as a parent or student is a great way to give back to them. Any token of gratitude is encouraging and priceless to an educator. Consider these options for your favorite teachers! More often than not, faculty and staff are there to offer your children words of encouragement throughout the education process. A teacher is a guiding hand - someone who is there for the good and bad days of your child’s life. Some of the best gifts a teacher can get are positive words and feedback. A simple “thank you” for what they do and positive influence on your kids goes a long way. A smile from a young student can brighten an educator’s day. As a parent, staying

Even the smallest gestures bring smiles.

words & images Sarah Richards BHPARENT 33

informed about upcoming events and requirements is another great way to support educators. Here are what some of the local educators have suggested as far as showing your support and appreciation for what they do.

Gifts from the Heart

They might not be the prettiest, but not everyone is an artist. It isn’t about the design; the thought and effort put into handmade gifts or handwritten notes are what matters. Whether it is coming from the parent or your child, teachers like to know that they are doing something right. Send a genuine note with your student, thanking your educator. These gifts and notes can be looked back on later in the school year during the tough days reminding teachers why they come to work every day. The gentle reminders are great encouragement and inspiration!

Get Crafty

Create a pencil vase that can be used for multiple purposes! This simple craft requires little effort and is a fun way to show appreciation and support. First things first, buy a flower arrangement. Place double sided tape around the vase, and stick pencils all the way around it. If your teacher is in need of colored

hit the sales after school begins and pick up extra classroom supplies or notebooks and crayons for students who might not have enough “It may seem like a small thing to parents or students, but it means the world to me.” Marshall Kambestad, Southwest Middle School, 6 th Grade Language Arts

“Just having the kids show up, being present with a positive attitude and outlook as well as doing their absolute best is one of the greatest ways to show support and appreciation.” Barb Paulsen, Custer Elementary, Principal

pencils or markers, switch it up and use them instead! Apply the finishing touch by adding a patterned ribbon or bow around the classroom supplies, and there you have it – a customized vase that can be taken apart when your educator needs an extra pencil.

Simple Route

If you and your kids don’t have a lot of time for crafts but still want to gift your teacher, there are a lot of great phrases that can be applied with simple gifts. Thanks for helping me grow can be posted in a succulent pot, or thanks for helping me bloom can accompany flowers. Thank you for coloring our lives can be gifted with markers, crayons, or colored pencils; hands down you’re the best teacher around can be placed with hand soap or sanitizer. Another cute phrase to pair with a candle or air freshener is, this year has been scent-sastional. Pinterest has a lot of great ideas if you’re looking for something unique that will still speak volumes to your student’s teacher!

Actions Speak Louder than Words “The greatest appreciation is when a parent brings in extra supplies saying, ‘We know you had this on the list and you only said you wanted one or two bottles, so we bought this much extra.’” Sandy Crown, Hermosa Elementary School, 1 st Grade

Sometimes though, gifts don’t display the message you want. Instead, volunteer! Be a classroom monitor for the day or offer to chaperone for a class field trip. Educators appreciate gifts, but on more than one account they’ve recognized volunteering and participation as what really makes a difference in the classroom. From the student’s aspect, teachers love when they take responsibility. It’s easy for kids to chalk up excuses for unfinished homework such as I didn’t understand it and my parents weren’t home or no one was able to help me. Teachers just ask that students do their absolute best and ask the tough questions. If your child needs help on an assignment, have them ask their teacher. They are more than willing to put in time and effort to assist them!

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“I HATE SCHOOL. MY TEACHER IS MEAN!” RESOLVING CHILD-TEACHER CONFLICT At one time or another, nearly every parent of a school-age youngster has heard their child express their displeasure with the entire educational establishment during a frustrating homework session or after a rough day.

38 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

While you may initially brush off their dramatic declarations, what do you do if your child seems to be growing increasingly distressed with school and their teacher? words Christa Melnyk Hines

CONFLICT EDUCATION

WHY THE GRUMBLING? An elementary school child’s disdain for their teacher may grow out of a variety of factors, like adjusting from a beloved former teacher’s management style to a new teacher’s approach. Other influences on a child’s attitude toward their teacher include class size, peer competition, increased homework, more demands, independent school work, or differences between home and school environments.

DO SOME DIGGING. Allow your child time to adjust to their teacher’s expectations and rules. If complaints persist, ask objective questions like, “How is the work for you? How are you getting along with the other kids?” “By doing that you can get a flavor of the environment rather than the situation,” says Dr. Stephanie Mihalas, a child psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist, who frequently helps students and parents manage and resolve school conflicts. “You may get an idea that something else is happening that’s triggering the ‘meanness’ and then at that point, you have more information to call or email the teacher.”

REVIEW CLASS WORK. Look for patterns such as red marks and notes from the teacher on classwork. If your student struggles and seems afraid to ask questions, discuss appropriate times for them to talk to their teacher about the work and which types of questions they should ask.

SIGNS OF A CHILD-TEACHER CONFLICT. “The single biggest factor is a change in grades. If grades are starting to slip, that’s a huge indicator,” Norris says. Behavior changes, including disengagement at school, forgetting homework and lack of effort, can also indicate a problem.

MAKE REAL-WORLD CONNECTIONS. A child may grow disenchanted with school and their teacher if they don’t understand how the subject matter relates to real life. Due to increased pressure to focus on testing and assessments, teachers devote less classroom time for experiential learning opportunities or class projects. That’s where a parent can help. “Engaging in the learning piece is key,” says Ashley Norris, Ph.D., assistant dean, University of Phoenix College of Education. On the weekends, integrate classwork into your daily errands. For example, if your child is learning about soil and climate in science, take them to a farmer’s market. Practice multiplication skills to tally up the tip at a restaurant.

“Parents (then) become a partner with the teacher, and once that engagement starts to happen, the perception of the student-teacher relationship changes,” Norris says.

RESOLVING A PERSONALITY CONFLICT. Rather than getting angry or defensive, take a calm, diplomatic approach when conferencing with your child’s teacher. “The last thing you want to do is instigate more conflict between the teacher and your child and if you start to pick sides, that’s what ends up happening,” Norris says. Also, ask if you can sit in during class one day. “Your presence might change the nature of how your child acts, but it will give you a flavor of how the teacher teaches,” Mihalas says.

WHEN TO CONTACT ADMINISTRATION. Go over a teacher’s head only as a last resort. “One of the only times to bring in administration is if your child is covered by special education law and the teacher isn’t following special ed law,” Mihalas says. Other times you might seek help from administration: •T he teacher agreed on a set of interventions, but isn’t following those strategies •Y our child comes home crying every day •Y ou talk with the teacher, but you’re unable to resolve the issue

REQUEST A DIFFERENT TEACHER? Sometimes a child’s personality and a teacher’s personality simply clash. Unless the teacher is abusive, help your child understand that they’re not always going to like everyone, stressing the importance of remaining respectful and learning how to manage personality differences. “In my humble opinion, I don’t think it’s a good idea to show children that because there’s a problem then they need to move from that classroom,” Mihalas says. Instead, teach flexibility by creating a link between friendships and getting along with others. For a younger child, you might say, “Everyone is different. Just as mommy and daddy do things differently, this is how your teacher is. It’s really good to learn how to work with all different kinds of people.”

SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP. If interventions at school are unsuccessful, seek help from a child psychologist to rule out learning disabilities and anxiety. BHPARENT 39

AGES & STAGES LEARNING

with the avalanche of questions, make sure you

EXPLAIN YOUR Whether your child tends to be a rule follower, or they like to fight against every boundary, there are things you can do to help them prepare for better decision-making in the future…

When children have a good understanding of why the rules are in place, they are more likely to follow them. Understanding the reasons for certain rules will also help them make better choices even when an adult is not around to tell them what to do. This can help improve their safety awareness even as young children and will positively impact their choices down the road as teenagers. Have well-thought-out reasons behind your rules. Sometimes the reasons behind your rules might be a little less clear (even to you), but typically there is a good reason for the things that we tell our kids… “You need to be kind to your friends so that they will want to play with you.” “You need to brush your teeth so that they don’t start to hurt.” “You need to pick up your toys so that they don’t get stepped on and broken or lost.” “You need to eat your food so that your belly doesn’t get hungry while we’re at the park.” “You need to go to bed so that you aren’t grouchy and tired tomorrow.” Also, it is worth mentioning that if you can’t think of a good, practical reason then maybe it shouldn’t be a rule! Take the time to explain your reasoning. It can be hard to take the time to explain these things to your child especially when it seems like such a minor thing like putting on shoes before leaving the house… When you are heading out the door, and your child needs to put their shoes on, you don’t always feel like explaining why they need to wear shoes. However, taking the time to logically explain the reasons that we wear shoes (so we don’t step on anything ouchy, 40 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

so our feet don’t get cold or dirty, because stores require us to wear shoes, etc.) prevents future battles over the same issue. The more you explain your reasoning, the more it becomes a habit. It will soon start to become second nature for you to think through your “why” before asking something of your children. And your children will start to learn the reasons behind the rules so there doesn’t have to be an explanation every single time! Be grateful that your children are inquisitive. A big reason for explaining your “why” is so your children can make decisions for themselves. You won’t always be around to tell them what to do. Giving them a glimpse into your thought process allows them to learn to make similar decisions for themselves. It allows them to be more independent, gives them leadership skills, and builds their confidence. There are many rules that exist for the well-being and safety of themselves and those around them. We want our children to understand the gravity of those rules, and the risks of breaking them. However, we don’t necessarily want our children to blindly follow the rules. As they grow up, they will be surrounded with more and more people (aside from their parents) that will be telling them what to do. These could be ill-intending peers or adults, and we don’t want our children to simply obey for the sake of obeying. You want your children to know their own “why” behind their actions so they can thrive in their own unique way!

words Shari Medini, adorethem.com

WHY

42 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE 2019 BH COMMUNITY NONPROFITS Our educational ‘Brady Bunch’ clockwise from top left: Autumn Gregory, Andrea Neff, Janessa Bixel, Carole Foster, Joe Doyle, and Sunni Toczek.

A Rapid City nonprofit group is dedicated to improving early childhood education efforts in western South Dakota words Jenna Carda images Jesse Brown Nelson There’s no manual to parenthood, but there is help. Early Childhood Connections is a nonprofit based in Rapid City helping thirteen western South Dakota counties improve early childhood educational efforts within their communities, large and small. From their beginning in 1995, the team has been helping parents, professionals, and community members alike when it comes to early childhood development. A small but mighty group of eight people cover an array of specialties, all focusing on one overall mission: the future and well-being of young children ages 0-12 years old. All information the organization shares is based on research and evidence by reputable sources, including the Pyramid Model developed through

Vanderbilt University, and more. The organization advocates for ongoing communication with families regarding their child’s education, developmental progress, and pertinent program information, to help bridge the gap between home and school, ensuring their child receives the best care possible and experiences a positive early childhood education. “We recognize that parents are a child’s first and best teacher, which is why Early Childhood Connections strives to help childcare programs provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all families that is culturally competent and reflects each child’s background,” said Family Support Specialist Sunni Toczek. BHPARENT 43

MEET THE ´FAMILY´ THAT IS

E A R LY C H I L D H O O D

C O N NECTI O N S Autumn Gregory, Executive Director From organizing agendas to communicating with their Board of Directors and Advisory Board, Autumn is the life behind giving parents hope. Whether you are new to the area and looking for childcare, or needing to solve problems as a public, private, or home educator, Autumn is your first contact in the door with the answers to give you direction. She has been with Early Childhood Connections for the past 20 years and looks at each day as a new way to make an impact on a family’s life. “We are always able to do something new each day and get to see positive results every day,” she said. Joe Doyle, IT Director Joining the team five years ago, Joe finds a mission behind the numbers, collecting and reviewing data to help the ECC staff better serve those taking Early Childhood Connection’s classes, workshops, and courses. He handles the grant writing and reporting and facilitates online learning sessions, occasionally making an appearance on their social media channels. But there’s more than numbers that draws Joe to the work they are doing in western South Dakota, and that is hope. “So often we hear from parents at the start of Starting Strong that they just don’t want their child to drop out of school,” said Joe. “But after two years of their child attending preschool, the conversation 44 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

shifts and they can see their children going to college, becoming doctors, lawyers, and so much more. They have a new outlook of hope in their own efforts, and their child’s.” Sunni Toczek, Family Support Specialist With her background in social work, Sunni promotes family engagement and involvement in region child care centers through coaching, training, and collaborating with community partners. Her primary role is within the Starting Strong program where she recruits families and assists them in finding the preschool program that best fits their unique needs. She communicates with programs and parents about solving barriers for preschool attendance. Sunni also coordinates the Bright Start Responsive Parenting classes in the area— enhancing skills and providing tools to parents of children age 0-3. Andrea Neff, Education Support Specialist While families are at the core of Early Childhood Connections, professionals and childcare providers are the other pieces of the pie that impact the future of young ones. Andrea came to Early Childhood Connections in December of 2018 and brings an immense amount of knowledge to complement her background in childhood development. As a former teacher and director, Andrea coaches others to make their classrooms and facilities the best they can be for the

children they are caring for. “Being a teacher I would impact 17 children and families that I had daily contact with. Now that I am working with many teachers and directors directly, the positive effects are so much more tremendous,” said Andrea Janessa Bixel, Professional Development Specialist With her roots in Early Childhood Education, Janessa has always had a love of teaching. She started part-time at Early Childhood Connections in 2016 and took the opportunity to join the team full-time in June of 2017. As the Professional Development Specialist, Janessa is accustomed to wearing an array of hats. One of her main responsibilities is acting as the Region 1 CDA (Child Development Associate) Program Coordinator. She travels to 13 counties around western South Dakota and works with teachers and providers to reach success in the required program. Another hat she wears is technical assistance and enrichment training. From walking through physical spaces and offering research-based suggestions on layout, materials, and safety for different age groups to sharing new ideas for early education lesson plans, Janessa offers a wealth of knowledge to her students. “My career chose me,” said Janessa. “I had a loopy road as a teacher and military spouse and my passion is deeply rooted in early childhood education. Now, I get to share that in a bigger picture working with educators and providers.” Carole Foster, Social Emotional Specialist Social Emotional Learning lays a foundation for children in their early years of life to acquire skills such as confidence, resilience, and selfawareness. For the past year, Carole has been teaching parents and caregivers about this special type of learning that is fundamentally important in the growth of children. “At the heart of it, Social Emotional Learning provides preventative measures,” explained Carole. “When I have an opportunity to coach a parent, caregiver or preschool teacher on how to prevent challenging behavior, we start to get ahead of the curve.”

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EDUCATION COLUMN

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Following a successful pilot program last year, Rapid City Area Schools is set to launch the STEAM2 (steam-squared) initiative district-wide this fall. words Mark Petruska

STEAM2 is closely related to the STEM initiative, a national education platform that emphasizes science, technology, engineering, and math. The RCAS program adds arts integration, since the district has a strong track record with this discipline, and medicine (the second “M”)—a decision that was made after consulting with members of the medical community who expressed a desire to collaborate. Dr. Lori J. Simon, Superintendent of Schools, is the guiding force behind STEAM2. She led a group of stakeholders in the development of a similar program in the Twin Cities, one that has been wildly popular. After relocating to Rapid City four years ago, Dr. Simon was eager to get the program into Rapid City schools—but she wanted all kids to have exposure to this new way of learning, not just a select group, and set her sights on adopting a district-wide approach. The main goal of STEAM2 is to provide a holistic approach to learning, with an

emphasis on teaching important 21st century skills. Dr. Simon identifies these as “The 6 C’s”: communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, character, and citizenship. The list was developed after engaging with local employers last year to rank the skills most important to long-term success. STEAM2 differs from traditional learning programs by integrating different subject areas rather than focusing on them separately. Incorporating a blend of math, science, art, and other topics is important because all of those skills are interdependent. This type of learning promotes balance between the right brain (the creative/artistic side) and left brain (the analytical side) and teaches students to see the connectedness in learning. Additionally, it allows them to focus on real-world problems—a crucial part of becoming a good citizen and helping out the community—and think in global perspectives. The guiding principles behind STEAM2 are:

MEDICINE

STEAM2 lab/maker space (mobile workstations that incorporate technology with hands-on learning) Coding instruction for all students STEAM2 curriculum integration Feedback from last year’s pilot program has been extremely positive. Parents bought into the concept right from the start and have been excited about the program, and student engagement is high. Dr. Simon said students were upset when last year’s snow days cut into their lab/ maker time! District surveys show support for STEAM2 hovers between 93-96 percent. The initiative does have a few challenges. Scaling up from a pilot program to district-wide implementation is tricky, and mastering different ways of teaching and learning takes time and patience. The initial cost of setting up the labs is high, requiring the district to get creative in looking at funding sources. And, of course, the ongoing challenge will be balancing this change with the many other demands placed on teachers. Communities and businesses looking to help make the program a success have plenty of options for partnering with Rapid City Area Schools. They can talk to groups of students, provide tours of their facilities, donate money for STEAM2 labs, and even just come on down and be a part of the learning experience. BHPARENT 47

Saving for College It’s hardly a secret that college is expensive. The mounting student loan debt crisis has even become a talking point in this fall’s presidential debates. words Mark Petruska Today’s college graduate owes an average of $31,172, translating to a monthly payment of $393. This takes a serious bite out of earnings and can leave graduates strapped for cash for 10 to 30 years. Saving for college will help offset these expenses and ensure your student isn’t bogged down in debt for decades. Experts recommend the following tips:

Start saving now. Ideally, start putting money aside the day your baby is born—or even sooner, if possible. Compound interest adds up, so the earlier you begin, the more money you’ll have available when your child heads to college. This happens in the blink of an eye, so don’t delay!

Create a monthly budget. Take a good, hard look at your monthly expenses and make sure you aren’t living beyond your means. Create a spreadsheet and look for areas in which you can cut back (do you really need a double latte every morning?). Funnel the extra money into your college savings account.

Start small and adjust accordingly. Even people living paycheck-topaycheck can start a college fund by putting aside a little bit each month. As your financial situation improves, increase the amount you tuck away.

Buy savings bonds. Savings bonds require little initial investment and the interest earned is tax-free. If held onto until they reach maturity, you can generally expect their value to double. Instead of giving your children toys, get in the habit of offering savings bonds.

Don’t neglect your own finances. Pay off as much outstanding debt of your own first (credit cards, your own student loan debt, etc.) in order to make saving easier. It’s a good idea to set aside 3-6 months’ worth of expenses in the event of an emergency. Make saving automatic. Remove the temptation to spend on yourself by signing up for an automatic payroll deduction, or open a savings account and have your bank move a portion of each deposit there every month.

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Invest extra cash. Instead of spending end-of-the-year bonuses, tax refunds, and other unexpected windfalls (lottery winnings, inheritances), add that money to your college fund. Giving it up is easier when you weren’t banking on it in the first place. Ask for help. Grandparents and other relatives are often happy to help out if you ask. To reassure them that their gift money is going to the right place, set up a section 529 plan designated for college savings.

FINANCES COLUMN

Five Steps to Start Building Wealth Today Want to save and invest but don’t know where to start? You may think your journey starts and ends with an investment plan. While that’s a key piece to the puzzle, it’s equally important to consider your own money story: What is your enough? And how can you make wise financial habits to help you get there?

Answering these questions at the outset can help you make informed choices with money, ensure your values and plans are being put into action, and ultimately guide you to leading a life of confidence, contentment and generosity. Building wealth starts with little actions and following intentional steps to help you identify where your money is going. For example:

Save first, spend second

Once you’re confident that you’ve been able to cut expenses, set up a monthly investment plan in which money can be automatically withdrawn from your bank account or paycheck. You could consider opening an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), take advantage of your employer’s 401(k) plan if offered, or set up an automatic investment plan that withdraws a set amount from your bank account each month.

Set up (and stick) to a budget

Once you’ve identified a few areas to free up money, figure out how much you want to save and design a budget that will allow you to meet that target. You can start with a modest goal – say 50 dollars a month – and then work your way up. Remember, if you’re serious about building your wealth, you must consider all possible ways to save.

Allocate “found money” into your investment account If you’ve paid off student loans or a car payment, invest that “found money” instead of spending it. You can apply the same concept to a salary bonus or tax refund in an effort to build your savings.

Follow the dollars

Closely review your expenses to track every dollar you’re spending WHATEVER YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS – while some... bills like rent or mortgage, transportation, etc. are

We’ll help you reach them.

locked in, you may have other areas where you can free up money.

Thrivent Financial offers a full range of products, services and tools to help you Money is a tool achieve financial security, including: • Life insurance • Retirement options • Annuities • Health insurance • Retail brokerage

• • • •

Mutual funds Estate and legacy strategies Education funding options Managed accounts

While following the above steps is important, keep the bigger picture in mind. Take this as an opportunity to figure out how money can be a tool for living out your faith, expressing your generosity, and contributing to your community.

We’ll create a financial strategy that reflects your goals and values. Calvin Sievers, LUTCF®, FIC Financial Consultant This article was prepared by Black NW ThriventHills Financial forNE use Group by Rapid City representative 2210 Jackson Blvd FR-Calvin Sievers. He has an Rapid SD 57702 office atCity, 2210 Jackson Blvd 605-399-9373 in Rapid City and can also be reached at (605) 399-9373. calvin.sievers@thrivent.com

While all of this takes a little extra work, you’ll gain a holistic view of your finances and can start taking small – but meaningful – steps on your wise with money journey. If you need additional support along the way, consider meeting with a financial professional who can help you troubleshoot these steps as you progress in life and in your career.

Insurance products issued or offered by Thrivent Financial, the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. Not all products are available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625

BHPARENT 49

ASK THE DENTIST

Where Bright Smiles Begin

How can I prevent my child from getting cavities?

Diet

Your child’s diet plays a big role in causing cavities. Candy and soda are most commonly thought of as causing cavities. However, any carbohydrates or acidic foods can contribute to cavities. Make sure your child is drinking plenty of water to rinse away the left-over food particles from the teeth and cut down on snacking to reduce the amount of time your child’s teeth are exposed to potential cavity-causing foods.

Oral Hygiene

Bacteria lives in plaque, the sticky film left on your teeth from food. If this plaque is not removed, the bacteria can begin to break down the surface of your child’s tooth. To remove this plaque effectively, your child should be brushing their teeth for 2 minutes 2

times a day and flossing once a day to remove the plaque in between the teeth.

Fluoride

Fluoride has been shown to decrease the prevalence of cavities by strengthening the outer surface of your tooth (enamel) and also interfering with the process oral bacteria uses to break down the surface of your child’s tooth. It is beneficial for your child to be using a toothpaste containing fluoride, which is applied topically to the teeth daily. A safe and effective amount for children less than three years is considered a smear or ricesize; children 3-6 years can use a pea-sized amount. Your child can also receive a fluoride varnish treatment applied by a dental professional at their recommended six-month dental visit .

RAPID CITY (605) 341-3068

Karli M. Williams, DDS

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BHPARENT

Dr. Lisa Anderson, DDS All About Smiles Valley Dental

4215 Berniece Street Rapid City, SD 57701 605-343-6691 Summer Hours: M-TH 8am-4pm Winter Hours: M-TH 8am-5pm Every Fri 8am-12pm 50 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM 48

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MEDICAL COLUMN

By Tara Ulmer, MD Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine at Regional Health Spearfish

Making the Move

First weeks of middle school can lead to anxiety for your child After a long, leisurely summer, your kids – and you – will have to readjust to the new school year routine. Early mornings. Sack lunches. After-school activities. And homework. But for some kids, back-to-school can be an anxious time – especially if they’re making the jump from grade school to middle school. Last year, they had one teacher, one desk and they knew all of their classmates. Now, they have to walk unfamiliar halls, find their classes, work with many different teachers, meet new kids…and remember their locker combination. On top of that, old friendships can change or even dissolve as new social circles form. It’s not easy figuring out where to belong in this new world. In other words, new middle schoolers have a lot on their plate. Sometimes the anxiety manifests itself as a physical ailment. As a pediatrician, I’ve seen kids with complaints of fatigue, abdominal pain, headaches and even panic attacks. As a parent, it’s heartbreaking. You want to go to every single class, talk to every teacher and fend off any bullies before they get a chance. Of course that’s a bad idea and may cause deep embarrassment. More importantly, your child won’t learn the coping skills that will be necessary later in life.

What can you do as a parent?

Don’t minimize what they are going through. We never recommend that you say, “Don’t worry. You’ll get over it.” This sends the message that their concerns are not important. In addition to feeling anxious, your child will feel guilty – about feeling anxious.

Listen carefully to their concerns, and try to let them know that it’s normal to feel that way. You can also point out that they’ve overcome past anxious moments, and tell them you know they can face this one as well. This is a very important time in a child’s life to have regular conversations about what is going on in their life, and it’s a great opportunity to show them that you care about what is important to them.

Maintain a routine

As difficult as it can be, keeping a routine is important to limit the amount of “unknown” in their day. Regular meals, morning and evening routines, and even regular chores can help kids of all ages improve their sense of belonging and help them realize the importance of their role within the family. We all know this time of year gets so busy, but having some routines to rely on helps us all be more confident. However, approach this with caution: over-scheduling is a common struggle for kids of all ages, so be sure some free time to unwind and relax is a part of every day.

Make sure they get plenty of sleep

Sleep is a critical aspect for everyone’s health, but it’s especially important for children. Sleep gives them time for both their body and mind to recharge. Adequate sleep is very important, because it helps their brain develop. It also gives us time for an emotional reset – we often have a fresh perspective after a good night’s sleep, making it easier to take on new challenges and deal with daily stress of being a teenager.

Dr. Ulmer is a boardcertified pediatrician experienced in caring for healthy children as well as children with special health care needs. She enjoys caring for a variety of children’s needs, ranging from acute illnesses to complicated long term needs. Dr. Ulmer’s practice is located at the Regional Health Medical ClinicNorth Avenue in Spearfish. She also travels regularly to the Regional Health Medical Clinic in Newcastle.

BHPARENT 51

ASK THE DOCTOR

How to Avoid Back-to-School

Getting your kids ready to start the school year involves more than buying school supplies and shopping for new clothes. It means strengthening their health so they’ll be physically and emotionally ready for the challenges of heading back to school or starting school for the first time. Consider these tips for a healthy start for your child’s new school year.

Teach kids to keep germs at bay by adopting the following habits

How do I transition my child from holiday mode to Back To School?

Second, keeping your children physically active with things like swimming, baseball, hiking and family camping trips.

Fourth, visiting with your local chiropractor to make sure their backpack fits appropriately so that it will not cause back pain and headaches in the future. Lastly, making sure your children continue washing their hands to stop the spreading of germs. These are a few tips that will transition your children back to school in a healthy state. Dr. Robert Kuyper DC, DABCI

Wash your hands. Proper hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Encourage your kids to wash their hands frequently with warm water and soap, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and any time they use shared school supplies or equipment. Consider packing antibacterial hand sanitizer in their lunch bag or backpack for extra protection. Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth. Even the most scrupulous hand-washers can’t keep their hands and fingers clean all the time. Touching the eyes, nose, or mouth introduces germs to the mucus membranes, where they can spread like wildfire. Don’t sneeze or cough into your hands. Covering your mouth with your hands when coughing or sneezing might prevent germs from getting into the air, but the next time your child touches something, they’ll spread quickly. Instruct them to sneeze or cough into the crook of their elbow instead.

Third, mentally preparing your children by reading books about a month before

Get a flu shot. The CDC reports that millions of children catch the flu every year; the virus can spread quickly, affecting the entire family. Serious complications can occur, some of which could be life-threatening. Your best preventive tool is a seasonal flu shot. A few seconds of discomfort is better than a week’s worth of misery. Make sure your child is current on all immunizations, too.

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Get a good night’s sleep. Sleep boosts the immune system, providing protection from germs and infection. It’s recommended that schoolaged children get a minimum of 10 hours of sleep every night, so establish a consistent bedtime and remove distractions such as phones, tablets, and video games. Stay home when you’re sick. Keep your child home from school if they have a fever, pink eye, or other contagious illness; are taking antibiotics; or don’t feel well enough to focus on lesson plans or participate in classroom activities. Talk to their pediatrician for a timeline on when to send them back to school.

52 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM 48

words Mark Petruska

First, powering up their nutrition with a variety of fresh organic fruits, vegetables, nuts and lean meats.

school starts and getting them back into a normal school sleep routine.

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ACL injury prevention WHY. HOW. WHEN. The anterior cruciate ligament (‘ACL’) is one of 4 major knee ligaments. It helps provide stability to our knee when we pivot or change directions quickly. There are nearly 200,000 ACL injuries each year in the United States, the majority of them occuring in youth athletes. New research has shed light on how to effectively prevent these ACL injuries from occuring.

As student-athletes return to school this fall, thousands of children in the Black Hills will also ramp up their participation in sports. While there are numerous benefits to playing a variety of sports, there is always a chance of injury anytime someone steps onto the field. Athletes participating in sports that involve cutting and quick changes of direction can be at risk of sustaining knee injuries, in particular, what is known as an ACL injury. While injuries do happen, athletes can take matters into their own hands and reduce their risk of injury by ensuring their bodies are ready to perform. One of the best ways to do this is through a formal injury prevention program. These programs typically focus on improving an athlete’s strength and balance, and teaching proper jumping and landing mechanics during sport. Research tells us that all athletes can reduce their risk of an ACL injury by about 50% when they regularly perform exercises learned in an injury prevention program. Female athletes that participate can reduce their risk by up to 67%. That’s right—they are two-thirds less likely to experience an ACL injury!

when an athlete is safe to return to the playing field is rarely black-and-white. Rather than using time-based criteria (e.g., 6 months=’cleared’), it’s important that athletes undergo functional tests that determine how well their previously injured leg is performing. In fact, athletes that continue physical therapy to improve their strength, balance, and agility between 6-9 months after surgery see their risk of re-injury go down by 50% per month. A combination of individualized physical therapy, diligence, and patience is the best recipe for a successful return to the playing field. Dr. Daniel Jensen, DPT, SCS Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Sports Physical Therapy 405 Canal Street Suite 1000 Rapid City 605.716.7748 www.bhphysio.com

Coming back from an ACL injury – when is it safe to return? Sustaining an ACL injury for most athletes is often season-ending and typically requires surgery and physical therapy. The decision on

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September

Weekly Fun in the Hills TUESDAYS Growing Up WILD! 4-H Youth Program Advisor Jane Amiotte shares stories that connect children to nature, followed by a craft. 10:15-11:30 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, 300 6th St., Rapid City, 605-394-9300

THURSDAYS Baby Bumblebee Thursdays Bring your little ones for a fun-filled storytime led by one of the library storytellers. 9:30-10 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, 300 6th St., Rapid City, 605-394-9300

TUESDAYS Farmers Market Vendors from around the area will be selling their locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as fresh baked goods and meats. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Prairie Berry Winery, 23837 Hwy. 385, Hill City, 877-226-9453

THURSDAYS Toddlers Story Time Bring your little ones ages birth to four years for a story. Get involved! Both the child and parent can participate together. 10:30-10:50 a.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Dr., Hot Springs, 605-745-3151

SATURDAYS Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story Time Open to kids of all ages, join in fun crafts, singing and reading stories. Snacks are available. 10-11 a.m., BHSU Jacket Zone, 617 Main St., Spearfish, 605-717-5801 SATURDAYS Fine Free Saturday Have overdue books piling up? Come to Fine Free Saturday and return your overdue items, and we will forgive the fine! All day, Sturgis Public Library, 1040 HarleyDavidson Way, Ste. #101, Sturgis, 605-347-2624

58 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

Our Fall Favorites Saturday 1 Black Hills Playhouse Presents: Nature The Black Hills Playhouse and Black Hills Energy in association with TigerLion Arts, presents Nature, an outdoor walking play celebrating the dynamic connection between humanity and the natural world Adults: $15, Youth: Free, 2 p.m., 24834 S. Playhouse Rd., Custer, 605-255-4141 Tuesday 3 Dog Days in the Pool Well-behaved dogs and their humans are welcome, any donations will benefit the Western Hills Humane Society. 5-7 p.m., Spearfish Recreation & Aquatics Center, 122 Recreation Ln., Spearfish, 605-722-1430 Saturday 7 Leave No Trace Hands-on activities will teach you how to Plan Ahead and Prepare; Pack It In, Pack It Out; Respect Wildlife; and more. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., The Outdoor Campus, 4120 Adventure Tr., Rapid City, 605-394-2310 Saturday 7, 14, 21 Bright Star Responsive Parenting Make parenting less stressful by attending a three-week class series for parents of children birth to three years old covering topics including The Parent and Child Dance; Your Unique Child; Responding to Your Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Needs; and more.

PROUDLY SUPPORTING FAMILY FUN

10 a.m.-2 p.m., Early Childhood Connections, 2218 Jackson Blvd. # 4, Rapid City, 605-342-6464 Saturday 7-8 Once Upon A Festival Two days of family fun including fun carnival like games for everyone, ticketed games, free fun and numerous vendors in the park selling items and food. $3, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Storybook Island, 1301 Sheridan Lake Rd., Rapid City, 605-342-6357 Sunday 8 Opening Day at Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch Kick off the fall season with a day full of duck races, hay sliding, barrel trains, a petting zoo, and more. Take an adventurous journey through the corn maze, then pick out the perfect pumpkin for carving and decorating. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Spearfish Valley Produce, 10784 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish

Saturday 14 Touch-a-Truck Fundraiser A unique opportunity for children and their families to explore vehicles of all types including public service, emergency, utility, construction, transportation, and delivery-all in one place! Children will be allowed to touch their favorite vehicles, get behind the wheel, and meet the people who help to build, protect and serve our community. $8, children under 1 are free, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Black Hills Harley Davidson, 2820 Harley Dr., Rapid City, 605-545-0623 Saturday 14 Black Hills Heart Walk Make the commitment to lead a heart-healthy life and become healthy for good. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s walk includes an inflatable, walk-through heart and lungs; opportunities to learn lifesaving skills like

Hands Only CPR; and entertainment by our local drumlines, dance teams, and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artist, Phil Baker. 9 a.m., Main Street Square, Rapid City, 605-716-7979 Saturday 21 Pioneer Day Entertainment for all ages: live music, craft vendors, free bratwurst lunch, and dress-up area for the kids. Watch live demonstrations of pioneer crafts, Admission is free, donations are appreciated. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Pioneer Museum, 300 N. Chicago, Hot Springs, 605-745-5147 Sunday 22 High Plains Live Music Enjoy an afternoon of live music featuring Brent Morris & the Western Acoustics $10, 2 p.m., High Plains Western Heritage Center, 825 Heritage Dr., Spearfish, 605-642-9378

Monday 23 Harvest Fest Join the apple pie baking contest or enjoy all-day entertainment for all ages. Walk the streets and check out some of the local vendors and listen to great musical talent. 9 a.m., Downtown Spearfish Saturday 28 National Public Lands Day Go on a family road trip to visit one of your favorite National Parks! Admission is free for this day only. (Cave tour fees at Jewel and Wind Caves still apply.) All day, All National Parks Saturday 28 Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival Visit Main Street Square and venture down Sixth St and into Memorial Park for a pumpkin catapult, giant pumpkin weigh-off, cooking demonstration, Kidz Zone, pony rides, vendors and more. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Main Street Square, Rapid City, 605-716-7979

Thursday 26-28 Arts Festival and Buffalo Roundup All day, Custer State Park

BHPARENT 59

PROUDLY SUPPORTING FAMILY FUN

October

Weekly Fun TUESDAYS Growing Up WILD! 10:15-11:30 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, 300 6th St., Rapid City, 605-394-4171 FRIDAYS Fridays at the Library 2-3 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Dr., Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 SATURDAYS Children’s Story Time 10-11 a.m., BHSU Jacket Zone, 617 Main St., Spearfish, 605-717-5801 SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS Fall Festival Hands-on animal fun, pig races and pony rides. Come on out and get your pumpkins and paint them too! $6.75, 10 a.m., Old MacDonald’s Farm, 23691 Busted Five Ct., Rapid City, 605-737-4815 FRIDAYS- SUNDAYS Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch Enjoy duck races, hay sliding, barrel trains, a petting zoo, and more. Go through the corn maze & pick out the perfect pumpkin. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Spearfish Valley Produce, 10784 Chicken Creek Rd., Spearfish, 605-644-9050

Friday 4-6 Book Festival The South Dakota Festival of Books brings readers and writers together for book discussions, autograph signings and more! All Day, Deadwood Friday 11-13 Annual Black Hills Powwow Attracts thousands of dancers, singers, artisans, and spectators from across the nation and Canadian provinces. Enjoy a fine arts show, pageant, and tournaments as well! Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, gotmine.com

Friday 11 Raw Couture: Forgotten Toys Enjoy a date night out on the town and attend the high-energy fashion show of Rapid City! Models will walk the runway in abstract outfits made of raw materials around the theme Forgotten Toys, benefiting Feeding South Dakota. (Children ages 12 and older are welcome to attend.) 7 -9 p.m., Performing Arts Center’s Historic Theatre, 601 Columbus St., Rapid City

datenight

Saturday 12 Battle for the Homestake Trophy SDSM&T Hardrocker Football vs. BHSU Yellow Jackets. 6 p.m., Lyle Hare Stadium, 1615 St. Joe St., Spearfish Sunday 13 Train Appreciation Day Get free admission all day to the South Dakota State Railroad Museum and take a ride on the 1880 Train (must

60 BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

be a resident of South Dakota or Wyoming to ride free). Hill City Departures: 10 a.m. and 1:15 p.m., Keystone Departures: 11:15 p.m. 222 Railroad Ave. Hill City, 605-574-2222 Friday 18 Community Pumpkin Fest Participate in carving and decorating (a limited number of supplies will be provided) while enjoying free hot apple cider and treats! A judging contest will be held at the end. 5:30-7 p.m., Spearfish Recreation & Aquatics Center, 122 Recreation Ln., Spearfish, 605-722-1430 Friday 18-20 Rapid City Kennel Club Dog Show Come out and watch the dogs compete for Best in Show. Open to the public; only entered dogs can be on the show grounds. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Rapid City Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, gotmine.com Friday 25 Halloween Hike Wear your costumes and come to The Outdoor Campus-West for fun, games, crafts and an evening hike. This evening is for the whole family, with hikes for both younger and older children and adults. (No scary haunted house!) 5-8 p.m., The Outdoor Campus, 4120 Adventure Tr., Rapid City, 605-394-2310

datenight

Friday 25 Rapid City Rush Home Opener vs Utah Grizzlies 7 p.m., Rapid City Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, gotmine.com Saturday 26 Rapid City Rumble Enjoy the fastest-growing tour within the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) when the Real Time Pain Relief Velocity Tour (RVT) stops in Rapid City, SD at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center. Rapid City Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, gotmine.com Saturday 26 Rush Hockey vs Utah Grizzlies 7 p.m., Rapid City Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, gotmine.com Saturday 26 Scare in the Square Children and parents are encouraged to wear costumes for an afternoon of holiday fun. Don’t forget your trick or treat bags! 1-3 p.m., Main Street Square, Rapid City, 605-716-7979 Saturday 26 Safe N Sweet Trick N Treat $3, 3:30 p.m., Storybook Island, 1301 Sheridan Lake Rd., Rapid City, 605-342-6357 Monday 28-31 Chambers Crypt Haunted House Recommended for children 10+. $5, Sturgis Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, 2040 Junction Ave., Sturgis, 605-347-2556 Thursday 31 Happy Halloween

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November

Weekly Fun TUESDAYS Growing Up WILD! 4-H Youth Program Advisor Jane Amiotte shares stories that connect children to nature, followed by a craft. 10:15-11:30 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, 300 6th St., Rapid City, 605-394-4171 THURSDAYS Toddlers Story Time Bring your little ones ages birth to four years for a story. Get involved! Both the child and parent can participate together. 10:30-10:50 a.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Dr., Hot Springs, 605-745-3151

datenight

FRIDAYS Fridays at the Library Kids from elementary to high school enjoy an afternoon of creativity and relaxation. Themes are: Lego Day, Makers Space (crafts), Movie Night, and Game Day. 2-3 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Dr., Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 SATURDAYS Children’s Story Time Open to kids of all ages, join in fun crafts, singing and reading stories. Snacks are available. 10-11 a.m., BHSU Jacket Zone, 617 Main St., Spearfish, 605-717-5801

Friday 1 Goo Goo Dolls Multi-platinum, four-time GRAMMY-nominated rock band Goo Goo Dolls swing by Rapid City before wrapping up their Miracle Pill Tour in Canada. 8 p.m., Rapid City Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, gotmine.com

Wednesday 6, 8-9 Rush Hockey vs Idaho Steelheads 7 p.m., Rapid City Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, gotmine.com

datenight

Monday 11 Veteran’s Day Ceremony Celebrate and honor America’s veterans at Main Street Square’s Veterans Day Ceremony. Immediately following the event, the annual Veterans Day Parade, organized by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1273, will start at 11 a.m. Main Street Square, Rapid City, 605-716-7979 Saturday 23 Ties & Tiaras Dance Grab your dancing shoes and dress up for a Daddy/ Daughter Mommy/Son dance. There will also be crafts, games, dinner, and a photo booth. Tickets purchased through the Center. 5-8 p.m., Spearfish Recreation & Aquatics Center, 122 Recreation Ln., Spearfish, 605-722-1430

Wednesday 20, 22-23 Rush Hockey vs Tulsa Oilers 7 p.m., Rapid City Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, gotmine.com Saturday 23 Cirque Dreams Holidaze Watch an electrifying and reimagined live family holiday spectacular. This critically-acclaimed extravaganza is both a Broadway musical and new Cirque adventure wrapped into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family! 4 p.m., Rapid City Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, gotmine.com Sunday 23 Ice Rink Opening Day A family movie will be shown at dusk. All Day, Main Street Square, Rapid City Monday 25 Club for Boys Christmas Tree Lot opens Search for your perfect tree from a variety of pines including Black Hills Spruce, Ponderosa Pine, Grand Fir, and more! 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays, The Club For Boys, 320 N. 4th St., Rapid City

Thursday 28 Happy Thanksgiving Saturday 29 Light Up the Night Carriage rides, parade of lights, fireworks, and tree lighting. All Day, Belle Fourche, 605-892-2676 Friday 29-30 Christmas Nights of Light End the fall season with a kickoff to the Christmas holiday! Stroll through a fantastical Christmas show and take the kids to visit Santa. Enjoy a nice hot cup of cocoa or cider on an evening out with the family. $2, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Storybook Island, 1301 Sheridan Lake Rd., Rapid City Saturday 30 Holiday Celebration & Winter Market Get ready to jingle bell rock around Main Street Square as you usher in the holiday season with the Holiday Celebration and Winter Market. Open to all ages. Shop the Winter Market, take your children to meet Santa, go ice skating, and listen to musical performances. 2-6 p.m., Main Street Square, Rapid City, 605-716-7979

For more family-friendly events happening in the Black Hills, visit us at BlackHillsParent.com

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