Kids VT, February 2014

✱ DOWNHILL FAST: BEST VT SLEDDING SPOTS

✱ TOFU TYKES: KIDS GO VEGETARIAN

✱ BLAST FROM THE PAST: A NEW HISTORY COMIC

2014 CAMP GUIDE

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DAYS CAMPS: $250 / OVERNIGHT CAMPS: Call 802-327-2154 for rates.

Ages 6–14 years

Go to jaypeakresort.com/RaisedJayCamps for more information.

LEARN. PLAY

The Kids VT guide to some of Vermont’s best sledding spots

Illustrator Tyler Parker created a wintry scene in honor of Valentine’s Day and this month’s Kids VT sledding guide. The girl is “smitten,” he says, and the boy is “either nervous about the ride or the girl.”

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

Copublisher/Executive Editor Cathy Resmer cathy@kidsvt.com ext. 74

Copublisher Colby Roberts colby@kidsvt.com ext. 77

Creative Director Don Eggert don@kidsvt.com ext. 71

Managing Editor Megan James megan@kidsvt.com ext. 73

Calendar Writer Alison Novak alison@kidsvt.com ext. 75

Marketing & Events Manager Corey Grenier corey@kidsvt.com ext. 76

Account Executive Kaitlin Montgomery kaitlin@kidsvt.com ext. 72

P.O. Box 1184 Burlington, VT 05402 802-985-5482 kidsvt.com

• Published 11x per year.

Circulation: 25,000 at 500+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.

• © 2014 Da Capo Publishing Inc. All

Editorial in Kids VT is for general informational purposes. Parents must use their own discretion for following the advice in any editorial piece. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute service/product endorsement. Kids VT is a proud member of the Parenting Media Association. Kids VT distribution is audited for accuracy.

Da Capo Publishing shall not be held liable to any advertiser for any loss that results from the incorrect publication of its advertisement. If a mistake is ours, and the advertising purpose has been rendered valueless, Da Capo Publishing may cancel the charges for the advertisement, or a portion thereof as deemed reasonable by the publisher. Da Capo Publishing reserves the right to refuse any advertising, including inserts, at the discretion of the publishers.

Copy Editor Paula Routly

Proofreaders Meredith Coeyman

Marissa Keller

Production Manager John James

Lead Designer Brooke Bousquet

Designers Aaron Shrewsbury

Rev. Diane Sullivan

Circulation Managers Steve Hadeka Matt Weiner

Digital Media Manager Tyler Machado

Office Manager Cheryl Brownell

Contributing Writers: Sarah Baughman, Heleigh Bostwick, Kathryn Flagg, Thea Lewis, Ken Picard, Becky Tharp

Photographers: Stina Booth, Matthew Thorsen

Illustrators: Tyler Parker, Ian Webb

Kids With Heart

As A kid, i kept A box of treAsures in my closet. It was a small wooden case that I’d painted in bright acrylics. I’d adorned its lid with my name, in florid script, a yellow peace sign and a big, red heart. Inside, I stashed photos of my best friends and cats, good-luck trinkets I’d made from clay, programs from school plays.

I’d forgotten about the box until I ventured into my parents’ attic over the Christmas holiday to search for baby clothes; I’m pregnant for the first time, due in early May, and on the hunt for hand-me-downs.

I found more than flowery onesies in the attic; I found my treasure box, and inside, evidence of the super-sensitive, nature-loving child I used to be. Amid the box’s clutter, I pulled out a series of letters I’d lovingly handwritten — to a tree.

This wasn’t just any tree; it was Camilla, the great Tree of Life, benevolent overlord of Naranthia, the name I’d given my suburban backyard. She watched over a harmonious kingdom of elves and animals — and me. In reality, Camilla was an apple tree, and she collapsed one spring during a fierce storm.

I was devastated. In my letters, I told her — in poetry and prose — that her loyal subjects would forever mourn her loss. My heart, I wrote, was broken.

OK, now the embarrassing part: The letters were dated 1996. I was 13 when I wrote them. Still, reading them as a mom-to-be, I didn’t feel embarrassment so much as compassion for my teenage self.

I thought of those love letters while editing this month’s Kids VT

It’s February, so we’re featuring some stories with Valentine’s Day in mind: Heleigh Bostwick writes about dating as a single mom (“Use Your Words,” p. 55); and local dads share advice they’ve given about first crushes (“Go Ask Dad,” p. 14).

But a broader theme surfaced in our pages this month: kids with heart. In the Mealtime column (p. 13) — a new food-focused feature that replaces our regular restaurant reviews — Kathryn Flagg talks to families with children whose love of animals, or community gardening, inspired them to become vegetarians. In “Kids With a Cause” (p. 18), I wrote about a group of Enosburg Falls teens who are passionate about getting their loved ones to quit smoking.

February is also when parents get serious about planning for the summer. The 17th annual Kids VT Camp and School Fair, on February 1, is a great place to start. Come to the Burlington Hilton between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to talk with representatives from dozens of local camps and schools. You’ll find many of those programs in our camp guide on page 25, along with helpful advice from local parents.

Other new stuff you’ll see in this issue: Thea Lewis and Ian Webb have created a new comic feature, “Drawing on History” (p. 53). A new section called “Bookworms,” (p. 17) includes selections chosen by our Book Review contest winners, as well as reading recommendations for Black History Month.

Hope you love it all.

Megan JaMes, Managing editor

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

Sarah Baughman (“Fit Families”) is a publications coordinator at Coventry Village School and an English teacher. She lives in the Northeast Kingdom with her husband, two children, dog, cats and chickens.

Heleigh Bostwick (“Use Your Words”) is a former jewelry cataloger at a New York City auction house who now makes a living as a freelance writer. She lives in Williston with her two children.

Kathryn Flagg (“Mealtime”) is a Seven Days staff writer. She lives with her husband and 7-month-old son, Asa, in Shoreham. They’re not vegetarians, but don’t tell that to the herd of cattle they’re raising.

VERMONT WEEK ACTIVITIES

(Visit

Indoor Amusement Center open every day during Vermont Week.

Monday, February 24th

Free Magic Show w/ VT Magician Tom Joyce

Tuesday, February 25th

Free Ice Cream Social & Kids’ Movie

Wednesday, February 26th

Free Balloon Sculptures w/ Dux the Balloon Man

Thursday, February 27th

Megan James

Readers Respond

We received this note from the dad of one of last month’s coloring-contest winners, after his daughter learned that she’d won.

Thrilling Discovery

Ava opened the paper yesterday and started shouting. I thought she had seen a spider and came running! Thanks for this feature. We love the paper!

Eric Hadley SOUTH BURLINGTON

Delicious Dip

From the Kids VT Blog

Managing editor Megan James is expecting her first baby in early May. She’s been blogging about her pregnancy each week since emerging from a barf-tastic first trimester in December. You’ll find a new Bump on a Blog post each Monday until the baby is born.

Fifty Shades of Green

A simple refrain ran through my mind during the first four months of pregnancy: WTH?!

Before I got knocked up this past summer, almost everything I knew about pregnancy came from movies and TV. You know the drill: The female protagonist pukes once, on the day she finds out she’s pregnant. Then, in the very next shot, she’s gorging on pizza and ice cream.

Mostly untouched queso fundido?

My husband and I order one bowl each because it vanishes so quickly. This review [“Out to Eat”: El Cortijo Taqueria y Cantina, Dec/Jan 2013/14] is a reminder that personal taste is exactly that: personal taste.

Linda Oats BURLINGTON

The rest of what I knew I learned from my mom, whose pregnancies were so blissful that she says she conceived me, her second kid, in part for the opportunity to feel great for another nine months.

It’s no wonder I thought pregnancy would be glorious. I expected 40 weeks of indulging food cravings, running my fingers through my radiant hair and displaying a general joie de vivre. How wrong I was.

What’s in a Name?

I don’t give much thought to my own name on a daily basis. So why do I worry so much about finding the perfect name for my child?

My mom’s choice — Megan — didn’t have any family connection. It wasn’t a name she had always loved. Megan seemed to come to her on a pregnancy-hormoneinduced whim.

My mom spent the month leading up to my birth, in 1983, watching — and weeping through — the romantic TV miniseries The Thorn Birds She named me after Meggie Cleary, the beautiful young protagonist who falls in love, tragically, with a priest.

I was never crazy about Megan. I thought it was boring — perhaps because, as you can see in the chart at right, everyone else born in the ‘80s seemed to share it with me.

Newly Minted Moms

I don’t know much about parenting, but I do know this: All the books in the world couldn’t prepare you for it. That’s why it helps to know people one step ahead in the game.

Four months before my due date, I asked three friends who have recently become moms to tell me what it’s really like on the other side.

MEGAN: Is there anything you wish you’d been told before you had your baby?

Online readers continue to comment on Alison Novak’s blog post from February 2013 about waiting to ski with her kids until they’re older.

Too Young to Ski

That was one of the best-written, most reality-based articles on parenting I have ever read. Thank you for your realism.

So far, this pregnancy — my first — has been about one thing only: barf. For months, I’ve been deciding what to eat based on how it will taste, and feel, coming back up. I have ralphed it all: spaghetti, cereal, apples, saltines, rice cakes, strawberries, water, coffee. During the first trimester, I was blowing chunks multiple times a day, yet each puke was unique, like an upchuck snowflake...

That chart comes from a website called The Baby Name Wizard, which features an interactive Voyager tool that tracks the popularity of names over time. When you’re a parent-to-be searching for that unique-but-not-too-weird name for your baby, it’s totally addictive...

Other recent web exclusives:

KATHRYN FLAGG: Friends kept warning us, “Go out to dinner now! Go see movies now!” There was a part of me, based on those warnings, that really believed life as I knew it was going to be over after the baby arrived. What surprised me is how little things changed. Yes, it’s exhausting. Yes, suddenly going to the grocery store is a lot more complicated. But, ultimately, my life still felt like my life, just with a little new person involved. I did get one warning that I ignored and wish I hadn’t: I wish I’d devoted more time to recovery after giving birth. I focused entirely on thinking about labor, and not enough on thinking about recovery. As a result, I think my recovery was more prolonged than it needed to be because I was too stubborn to take it easy in those first days and weeks after Asa’s birth. So truly, Megan: Take it easy...

Michelle Trahan ESSEX JUNCTION

Email us at feedback@kidsvt.com

Home Cookin’: A Child’s First Bread: Kids VT calendar writer Alison Novak and her 3-year-old son spent a rainy day baking their first-ever bread. Then they acted out the yeastfermentation process.

Decide to Glide! A Guide to Indoor Skating: Want to practice your double axels? Or just loop around the ice with your kids? We compiled a list of Vermont rinks that o er public skating and rentals. Got a comment?

These winners get $25 gift cards to Creative Habitat in Burlington and their artwork framed for free.

Book Review: Martha

BY ALISON NOVAK

“Tell me a ‘getting hurt’ story.”

Ever since my daughter, Mira, now 6, was old enough to form sentences, she has made this request.

During boring car trips, or in dimly lit bedrooms as sleep begins to wash over them, both Mira and her younger brother, Theo, almost 4, love to hear real-life tales of bodily disaster.

Lucky — or not — for me, I have lots of material to work with. I had to get stitches four times as a kid, once when I dove into a too-shallow pool and sliced a chunk of skin off the bridge of my nose.

There is usually a fair amount of gore in my “getting hurt” stories, but the doctor always comes to the rescue, the wounds always heal and the scars always fade. They are sad stories, but happy, too.

When I spotted Martha on the shelves of my local library, I knew my kids would like it because it’s a variation on the tales of woe they’re accustomed to — an “animal getting hurt” story.

Read more at kidsvt.com

A Mighty Kale Salad

Tasha Lehman’s crisp kale salad caused a buzz on Facebook and Twitter after we posted the recipe on our blog in early January. We’re guessing our readers had been craving a simple, healthy reprieve from the heaviness of holiday eating.

If you haven’t tried it yet, whip up this salad today. As Lehman wrote, “It’s not exactly a recipe, more of an inspiration. Add in something you love, leave out what you don’t; whatever you do, enjoy!”

Ingredients:

1 bunch fresh kale, chopped and washed, or one package baby kale juice of half a lemon drizzle of olive oil

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/3 cup blueberries

1/3 cup feta or goat cheese

1/4 cup slivered almonds salt and pepper to taste

COLORING CONTEST

Why hop when you can slide? That seems to be what the winterloving bunny from the December/ January coloring contest is thinking as she whizzes across the snow on her saucer sled. Close to 100 contest entrants let their creativity fly, too, adding color, sparkle and an abundance of carrots to this sledding scene. We especially loved all the hare-dos — the braids, bou ants and hipster coifs — that kids drew on their rabbits’ heads. Congratulations to all the winners!

HONORABLE MENTIONS

BLUEST BACKDROP

Zoe Glass, 9, Burlington

MOST ELABORATE SNOW TUNNEL

Edith Kidder, 10, Lincoln

SUBTLEST SHADING

Emily Lowe, 9, Vergennes

DOTTIEST DALMATIAN

Elana Philbrick, 10, Richmond

PRETTIEST PATTERNS

Lily O’Brien, 8, Shelburne

GREENEST DEMEANOR

Liam McGuire, 4, Vergennes

CUTEST PENGUIN ON SKIS

Britta Zetterstrom, 9, Duxbury

CROSS-EYED CUTIE

Veronica Miskavage, 7, Hinesburg

PINKEST PIG-AS-SLED

Lola Rubin, 7, Burlington

CHEERIEST CIRCUS TENT

Oliver Wilcox, 4, Milton

SPINDLIEST SNOWFLAKES

Ashtin Stearns, 5, Vergennes

PURPLEST SNOW

Skye Fitzhugh, 10, Jericho

Mix the kale with the lemon juice and oil. If you’re using full-size kale — as opposed to the more delicate baby variety — rub the juice and oil into the leaves really well. Add in all of your toppings and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Give it a little mix. If the salad is too dry for your liking, add more oil. Serve immediately. Easy, right? What will you add to your kale salad?

YOWZA YELLOW

Jakobi Kmiecik, 4, Worcester

TOP TITLES

“ABAGAIL RUNNY BABBIT”

Maria “Fern” Murphy, 8, Plattsburgh, NY

“BUNNY AT THE FAMOUS WONDERLAND OF FLYING PANCAKES”

Elizabeth Orvis, 8, Essex

Find this month’s coloring contest on page 52. The deadline for submissions is February 15.

“Luna Sled Day”

Kyla Abair, 5 ST. ALBANS

“High Flying Annie”

Tanisha Gerg, 8 GEORGIA

“A Carrot Christmas”

Sela Brown, 11 WINOOSKI

the BeAt

arT

Face Forward

Today’s kids photograph themselves at an unprecedented rate, notes Middlebury artist Kate Gridley. But it’s rare to see those same faces immortalized in oil portraits. In ‘passing Through: porTraiTs of emerging adulTs,’ Gridley presents a series of larger-than-life paintings of 17- to 25-year-olds. Over five years, she painted 17 youngsters and recorded bits of their conversations, which gallerygoers can listen to on their mobile devices. Gridley encourages middle and high school students to visit the show and participate in a special curriculum designed to help them “look longer, think more deeply and respond.” They can also choose to have their photo taken and added to the exhibit. “People come away with these 17 voices and images, and it almost becomes a portrait of a generation,” Gridley says.

‘passing Through: porTraiTs of emerging adulTs’: Through April 12 at Amy E. Tarrant Gallery in Burlington. Gridley will be at the gallery every Thursday morning to lead school groups. To schedule a visit, contact Nancy Abbott-Hourigan at nabbott@ flynncenter.org or 652-4505.

educaTion

Never Too Early

The human brain develops most rapidly between birth and age 3. But many Vermont families with young children struggle to provide a healthy developmental environment for them due to poverty, disabilities or an inability to speak English. Enter Vermont’s new four-year, $36.9 million race To The Top early learning challenge granT. The federal money will beef up existing family programs and create new opportunities for prenatal care, afterschool programs, early-childhood nutrition and educator training. “The hope is, by the end of four years, we’ve really built and shored up this system so that everyone will feel the ramifications,” says Alyson Richards, director of special projects at the governor’s office. “The earlier we’re able to build a strong foundation for kids, the better we’re going to be as a state, the stronger we’ll be as communities and families.”

communiTy

Movin’ On Up

Burlington’s King sTreeT cenTer relocated to temporary digs on South Winooski Avenue last month when demolition began on its King Street building. The nonprofit is making room for a brand-new, $4.7 million, 25,000-square-foot center, to be completed in 2015. Development director Susannah Kerest says the organization’s 20-year-old building was riddled with leaks and other infrastructure problems. Lack of space was also an issue. “Kids and tutors were fighting for desks,” she says. “That’s just not good practice when you’re trying to give kids a leg up academically.” Kerest says the new building will provide more opportunities for community engagement. “We’ve had to say no to a lot of ideas. Now we won’t have to.”

King sTreeT cenTer: The organization, temporarily located at 179 South Winooski Avenue, is currently looking for mentors for kindergarten through second-graders. Find more information at kingstreetcenter.org.

race To The Top early learning challenge granT: Find more information at governor.vermont.gov/race-to-the-top. Courtesy o F King s treet Center

Making Connections

It’s easier than ever to share family moments on Facebook, but Champlain College online marketing professor Elaine Young says you might want to ask your kids before posting.

“When you put that picture of their art project on Facebook, the little ones are so excited with the likes,” she says. “But as they get older, if you’re not asking permission, people are having major family meltdowns.” A South Burlington mom with a teenage daughter, Young has been watching closely for the past 13 years as the digital world has evolved. She recently collected her insights into a new book, ‘Tuned-in family: how To cope, communicaTe and connecT in a digiTal world,’ available this month from the Champlain College Publishing Initiative. This family manual aims to help parents talk with kids about issues such as privacy, sexting and digital identity. What’s not to like about that?

‘Tuned-in family: how To cope, communicaTe and connecT in a digiTal world’: Self-published by the Champlain College Publishing Initiative. Find more information at tunedinfamily.com.

Young Riders

Learning to snowboard can be painful, but it doesn’t have to be. A new pilot program called liTTle rascals on snow…boards at the Treasures Child Care Center at Smugglers’ Notch introduces toddlers as young as 18 months to the basics of shredding in a safe, indoor environment. To get a feel for the sport, kids play with foam boards and mimic common riding movements, such as bending at the knees, with hula-hoops. “We want these children to learn the fundamentals of snowboarding without... bundling up for the snow and taking a hard fall,” says snowboard program supervisor Michael Chait, who hopes to instill in his students a lifelong love of riding. “We want their first encounter with a snowboard to be a positive one.”

liTTle rascals on snow…boards: At Treasures Child Care Center at Smugglers’ Notch in Jeffersonville. Find more information at smuggs.com.

with

By Ken Picard

AccIDenTS HAppen, as parents of toilet-trained kids well know. But when the occasional wet blanket becomes a regular occurrence, it can create anxiety and stress for the entire family.

This month, Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care, reminds parents to just relax; don’t take it personally. Most bed-wetting is benign and goes away over time. While you wait, Dr. First offers a few tips for keeping kids dry.

KIDS VT: When is the right time to toilet train a child?

LEWIS FIRST: There is no exact age. I recommend going by the following four questions: Does your child have a good understanding of the words for defecation and urination? Is there a regular time they tend to urinate or defecate? Are they interested in other people using the bathroom? Finally, are they uncomfortable with something in their diaper? If they couldn’t care less what’s in their diaper, they’re not ready. Successful toilet training typically occurs between ages 2 and 3, and boys tend to lag slightly behind girls. If a child hasn’t begun to develop an interest in the potty by age 3, it’s worth talking to your doctor.

KVT: How common is bed-wetting?

LF: Bed-wetting is much more common than most parents think. Fifteen to 20 percent of 6-year-olds will continue to wet the bed, and about 1 percent of otherwise healthy teenagers wet their beds.

KVT: What are the most common causes?

LF: Oftentimes we don’t know, or the causes are multifactorial. A child can have a very small bladder and/or be a very sound sleeper. It may even be

genetic. If one parent has a history of bed-wetting, there’s about a 50 percent chance that the child will, too. And if both parents do, there’s a 75 percent chance. Also, when kids are constipated, the full large intestine may push into the bladder, making the bladder smaller. Bed-wetting may also flare up during times of stress or anxiety. But most of the time, it’s unusual to find a medical cause, and the problem typically goes away on its own.

KVT: When should parents seek medical advice?

LF: Bed-wetting becomes a problem when a child has been toilet trained for months or years and then begins having nighttime accidents, or regular accidents by day, too. Then we start asking, is it diabetes? A urinary tract infection? Emotional trauma? These are much rarer causes.

KVT: Are there popular misconceptions around bed-wetting?

LF: Yes: The notion that parents shouldn’t give their children something to drink before they go to sleep. Kids with this problem will still wet the bed. Obviously, if they really tank up on fluids before bedtime, the odds of an accident increase. But there is no proof that depriving a child of fluids before bedtime will result in a dry bed.

KVT: Anything else?

LF: The most important thing to remember is that it’s not your child’s fault. This is not something they have

direct control over. Parents often assume the child is trying to frustrate them. All that does is make it more difficult for the child to gain control over this problem for fear they will disappoint and anger their parents. Rather than saying, “How could you have another accident?” parents should realize that one in five kids in kindergarten does this. They will likely outgrow it over time.

KVT: Do pull-ups or diapers worn at night enable bed-wetting?

LF: No, but for frequent bed-wetting, it’s better to use these products with alarms, such as Wet-Stop. It’s a monitor with a sensor pad that sits inside the diaper or pull-up and sounds a buzzer whenever it senses a drop of moisture. Eventually, it trains the child to wake up before he or she needs to use the toilet rather than letting the alarm go off. It’s also a good idea for parents to take their child to the toilet right before he or she goes to bed. If the child tends to have accidents at a certain time, parents can set an alarm for themselves and take their child to the bathroom before it happens — although this may not teach the same bladder self-control that a sensor system can.

KVT: What if the problem persists?

LF: Your child’s doctor can prescribe medications — not as a cure but as a temporizer — to allow your child to hold onto fluid longer. When is this useful? At a sleepover. Many kids are embarrassed about going on a sleepover because of the fact that they can’t hold their urine. The medication will get them through the night, but it’s still a good idea to come with a change of pajamas, just in case. Even alerting the friend’s family helps demystify the stigma around bed-wetting. If the child is still wetting the bed after age 6, it makes sense to seek medical attention just to make sure there’s no underlying medical condition. K

Fifteen to 20 percent of 6-year-olds will continue to wet the bed, and about 1 percent of otherwise healthy teenagers wet their beds.

BY SARAH BAUGHMAN

Trail Mix

MY 3-YEAR-OLD SON was so eager to start cross-country skiing that a lack of ski boots wasn’t going to slow him down. On our first day of deep snow last winter, I dug his skis and poles out of the garage. I was still searching for his boots when he slapped his tiny skis on the ground in our Coventry backyard. He balanced on them carefully, wearing just his shoes, poles clenched.

“Mama! I’m skiing!” he shouted as he shu ed o for the first time, his toes pushing the skis, which sliced an impressively balanced path through fresh powder.

We’d rented his gear — including the boots, which I located before long — from the Memphremagog Ski Touring Foundation. The Newportbased nonprofit makes Nordic skiing a simple, a ordable option for winter entertainment in the Northeast Kingdom.

A $50 MSTF family membership grants the four of us unlimited ski trips on a network of neatly groomed paths in Orleans County. The child-size skis and boots cost just $35 to rent for the season.

Trails range from the flat and easy Newport City bike path, which hugs the shores of Lake Memphremagog, to the more challenging Mt. Hor loops in nearby Willoughby State Forest.

Peter Harris, who cofounded MSTF in 2003 with another Newport local, Robert Primeau, says the foundation “was essentially designed to create a local trail network and get equipment,

so we could groom trails for crosscountry skiers.”

That trail network runs on volunteer power: Primeau has opened up his own wooded Derby land to skiers, and he and Harris manage much of the grooming themselves, with help from a couple other part-time enthusiasts.

More than 150 MSTF members take advantage of their e orts. “We have a pretty decent turnout,” says Harris. “We’ve been pleasantly surprised.”

For my family, it’s just a short drive up the road to the MSTF parking lot adjacent to Primeau’s land. The trails there make for a quick, manageable skiing session. On days when we seek more adventure, MSTF makes that pretty easy to come by, too. The foundation is part of the Vermont Ski Areas Association, so our membership allows us to ski for free, one day per season, at any cross-country skiing spot in Vermont. It’s our go-to weekend outing once the snow hits and sticks. It motivates us to see other parts of the state we might ordinarily pass by.

Last year that deal brought us to the Craftsbury Outdoor Center, where we bundled our toddler daughter into our Chariot stroller, rigged with a special ski attachment. Our son started out on his rented skis.

We coached him on the hills —  “Don’t lean too far back, or forward! Bend your knees!” — and watched as he teetered down them. When he

inevitably landed on his bottom, he laughed.

His stamina didn’t last, though. When our son got tired, into the Chariot he went for a warm blanket and a snack break with his little sister. My husband and I pulled on, along the outdoor center’s groomed paths and across the frozen stillness of Duck Pond.

Entranced by the comforting swish of skis on glinting snow, we didn’t realize we’d worked our way onto the backcountry Catamount Trail system until we’d gone about four miles out of our way. We doubled back, motivated by hunger and impending darkness. By the time we returned to the parking lot, muscles aching, our son was ready for another ski.

“No way!” we said, settling into the car.

Cross-country skiing is as addictive as it is good for you. The next day, we loaded up our equipment and headed out again.

IF YOU GO:

Seasonal family memberships in the Memphremagog Ski Touring Foundation cost $50; individual memberships are $35. Register online under the Club Memberships section of skireg.com. Day passes are also available for $5 per person. Registration forms can be found at mstf.net; print and mail in the form, or leave your day-pass donation in the container by the bridge at the bike-path entrance to Primeau’s trails.

For an easy family skiing session, park at the North Country Hospital in Newport and hop onto the Newport City bike path, which offers great Lake Memphremagog views. Or drive to the MSTF parking lot on Darling Hill Road in Derby and ski Primeau’s somewhat hillier, but still manageable, wooded trails.

“Fit Families” is a monthly feature that offers easy and affordable ways to stay active. Got an idea for a future FF? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

3rd Annual Pregnancy & Baby Expo

Wrap Bracelet

From

COURTESY OF SARAH BAUGHMAN

Cross-country skiing is our go-to weekend outing once the snow hits and sticks.

The Baughmans in Craftsbury

Cooking for kids who swear off meat

By Kathryn Flagg

“Why do people eat animals?”

The question caught Kids VT designer Brooke Bousquet off guard when the older of her two sons, 5-year-old Noah, posed it during bath time a few months ago. Bousquet scrambled for an answer, rattling off something about protein, and about treating animals well during their lives before they end up on a dinner plate.

But Noah wasn’t having it. As he teared up, Bousquet, an omnivore, rushed to reassure him that eating animals is a choice — one he could make for himself.

“I’m going to stand on the tallest ladder in the world and tell people not to eat meat,” Noah told his mother. Months later, he still maintains a vegetarian diet.

“It wasn’t like we led him down this path,” Bousquet says. “He totally chose it.”

According to a 2009 poll conducted by the Vegetarian Resource Group, an estimated 3 percent of American kids between the ages of 8 and 18 are vegetarian, meaning they don’t eat fish, poultry or meat. Anecdotally, vegetarian advocacy groups say that choice is on the rise among kids and teens.

“You don’t have to freak out about it,” says Bethany Yon, a research associate in the University of Vermont’s department of nutrition and food sciences. She says that if children are still consuming other animal products — such as dairy and eggs — it isn’t difficult for them to get the calcium, iron and vitamin D that they need to thrive.

And there are perks to going veggie: According to a position paper from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, vegetarian kids consume less cholesterol and saturated and total fat, as well as more fruits, veggies and fiber than their omnivorous peers.

Yon suggests parents “gently explore” their child’s newfound preferences and discuss ways to approach vegetarianism from a healthy angle. “The big concern sometimes is that it just becomes an excuse to eat carbs all day,” she says.

Williston mom Nicole Voth knows all about that. Her daughter Olivia went through a “noodletarian” stage when she first cut out meat six years ago. But in the years since, Olivia — now a tall, poised 14-year-old with a passion for cooking — diversified her meals. She became

much more serious about “adding color into her diet,” as her mother puts it. She saw a nutritionist and started helping out in the neighborhood community garden. For Olivia, the choice to go vegetarian was mostly about personal preference; she didn’t care for the taste or texture of meat.

“We really didn’t have many discussions about it,” says Voth, reflecting back on Olivia’s decision. “It was a proclamation she made.”

A mountain of fresh, vibrantly colored vegetables covered the kitchen counter at the Voths’ on a recent Saturday night. The family was preparing to whip up an enormous crock of southwestern vegetable soup.

Olivia wielded a chef’s knife, which she had learned to handle skillfully, and safely, during cooking classes at the Essex Resort & Spa. She chopped up mushrooms, peppers, onions, carrots and parsnips. Her bubbly 8-year-old sister, Zoe, fed them into a food processor. The family worked in cheerful, practiced unison in the kitchen, which was soon filled with the smell of fresh, earthy vegetables.

“It’s spicy, and it’s absolutely nothing but veggies,” Voth said of the soup, one of the go-to recipes she used when she had to “hide” vegetables from her two kids. Now the girls embrace them with gusto.

The shredded vegetables went into a large soup pot with a bit of butter and olive oil. Olivia stirred the pot occasionally until the veggies softened and began to cook down. Then she added stock and a medley of spices, including Tabasco, cumin and plenty of black pepper. Olivia dipped in a clean spoon to taste. “Too sweet,” she pronounced and continued tinkering, with her mother’s help.

Voth started involving the girls in her cooking early on. She says she didn’t want the time she spent preparing meals to exclude her daughters — so into the kitchen they came.

In the years since, Olivia has grown increasingly

interested in food. For her eighth grade challenge project at Williston Central School, she’s writing a cookbook based on her experiences teaching neighborhood children about gardening and cooking last summer. She hopes to sell it and donate the proceeds to her school garden.

More often than not, Olivia cooks by feel instead of precise measurements. She’s keen on experimentation, which has lead to both big successes and the occasional flop. She won over the neighborhood kids with her rhubarb and honey bars, for example, but didn’t have any takers for her spinach pancakes.

“I don’t know why green is such a terrifying color for kids,” she says. Her solution? Put it in a calzone.

The teen is the only vegetarian in the Voth household. On that same Saturday night, when the meal was nearly finished, her soup went into a separate pot before Voth added some shredded chicken to the remainder. The family often makes vegetarian-only meals, sometimes because it’s simpler than cooking two different dinners. Other times, it’s because Olivia is at the helm.

“Now that she is older, there are times that I come home and dinner’s ready,” says Voth. “And that’s really special.”

Meanwhile, at the Bousquets’ home, Noah’s newfound vegetarian ideals have changed the family’s diet — because Bousquet, like Voth, would rather not cook two meals every night. Gone is the local venison that extended family members once provided, as well as those high-quality frozen chicken nuggets Bousquet used to reach for in a pinch.

“I was hoping that he would outgrow it,” she admits, just like he outgrew the phase during which he wore camo-colored clothing only. No luck. “If anything, he’s grown stronger in his convictions.”

Bousquet jokes that perhaps she should have anticipated her son’s gentle-hearted affection for animals. “His name is ‘Noah,’ for crying out loud.” K

the big concern sometimes is that it just becomes an excuse to eat carbs all day.

Bethany yon

What advice have you given your kids about dating?

Jamey magowan WINOOSKI Professional announcer, wcaX and Hall communications Daughter Brianna, 19

Early on, my daughter tended to gravitate toward boys just because they were popular. I was very involved in her school, so I knew the boys, and I felt like she tended to be attracted to how they were seen as a couple, rather than what they had in common.

I asked her about one of them: “How does he do in school? What kind of music does he like?” She didn’t know. I wanted her to know that choosing people because they were sort of mini-celebrities might not work out that well. I think after a couple of bad strikes, she took my advice to heart.

She hasn’t always taken my advice, but the one thing I’ve never said is, “I told you so.” She trusted that I just wanted to make sure she was making the right choice for her.

Now that she’s in college, her relationships have been with very thoughtful people. I’d like to think our conversations had something to do with that.

gordon Petersen BURLINGTON President, workPlace solutions Son Lucas, 23; daughter Zoe, 12

My parents were part of the Greatest Generation, and I’m a baby boomer. My upbringing may have been authoritarian, but my parents taught me a certain respect, and my kids got some of those values from me.

My mother was an Army nurse who told my brother and me, with regard to dating: “If she says, ‘No,’ respect ‘No.’” That’s something I’ve passed down to my son.

With my daughter, well, she’s my first girl. I respect her privacy as an early adolescent. But she’s 12 and, so far, her crushes have all been icon crushes: boy bands, girl bands, One Direction, Austin Mahone.

The thing is, as far as relationships go, you can’t teach self-esteem. There’s no formula for it. If you live it in your life and your family, there’s an osmosis to it.

Brian gloyd SOUTH BURLINGTON

media sales, eagle country 97.5fm and nortHeast sPorts network Daughters Kelsey, 23, Lindey, 21, Taylor, 17

South Burlington’s parks and recreation department puts on a terrific event every year around Valentine’s Day: It’s their annual Father-Daughter dance. For my family, it was a little like practice dating.

The girls get dressed up, and the dads wear a suit and tie. They play great ’70s rock music that draws the dads, with some current music for the kids mixed in. There are refreshments, prizes, gifts and picture taking.

My three girls all went multiple times, so I probably hold the record for attendance. Whenever we went, I would open doors for them, treat them politely. It was a really special evening.

As they got a little older, but still weren’t near dating age, I told them, “When you start dating, you should feel just as good about it, and just as respected, as you did that night.”

I wanted them to know what a good date is like, what to expect, and I let them know that if they ever did feel disrespected or uncomfortable while on a date, they could call us, and we’d come pick them up.

alan levi WILLISTON owner, Buttered noodles

Sons Max, 29, Elliot, 27

Because I was pretty open and realistic with my boys, I said, “Be respectful, don’t hurt anyone.” I also said, “A girl has to protect one egg, and you have a million sperm. Treat that thought with respect.”

With teenagers, so much of what happens to them is not played out in front of you. But we witnessed one hard situation with our boys: In high school, they both liked the same girl. One of them got the girl, and one got hurt. It was painful because there was already sibling rivalry. I had to be a good listener. It was a learning experience, both for our family and from a dating perspective.

Now that they’re older, I watch the drama unfold from a distance. I don’t offer much advice. I might say, “Take what you want from this or take nothing. This is not what you should do, but what I would do.” K

the one thing i’ve never said is, ‘i told you so.’

Jamey magowan

Mindfulness

the Smilie Memorial School in Bolton, which serves students in pre-kindergarten through fourth grade.

The resulting curriculum consists of nine weeklong lessons with video and audio components focusing on topics from relaxation to achieving happiness. Modern Mindfulness also encourages teachers to put their own creative spin on the material and classroom discussion.

“A big role of the teacher is to think about the lessons and pepper them throughout the day when there’s an opportunity to talk about mindfulness,” said Foreman.

A cAlm, disembodied voice emAnAted from A computer in Katherine Grykien’s dimly lit fifth-grade classroom in Burlington’s Champlain Elementary School.

“Breathe in and straighten your back. Breathe out and settle your body,” the voice instructed. Twenty-two students sat cross-legged on the floor and followed along, their eyes closed, their hands resting in their laps.

Next, a different voice took over and led the kids in a listening exercise. The students were asked to turn their heads in the direction of any sounds they heard, sending their attention toward them. Then the computer told them to relax and let the sounds come to them, stretching out their palms “to welcome them.”

“Normally, what I do when I hear a distracting sound is try to ignore it,” Charlie McConnell, one of Grykien’s fifth graders, explained after the lesson. “I think today I’m going to listen to it and then let it go.”

The lesson, which provided five minutes of relaxation before the busy school day got under way, was part of a computerized curriculum called Modern Mindfulness. Grykien learned about it last year at a two-day training with the Center for Mindful Learning, a Burlington-based nonprofit.

Mindfulness refers to a series of practices that lead to focused, relaxed attention, said Lindsay Foreman, CML’s

program director. At school, these practices can help students deal with social and emotional aspects of learning, such as dealing with stress, getting along with others, building confidence and staying engaged.

The pilot program at Smilie, she added, had positive effects schoolwide: After six months, disciplinary referrals to the principal decreased by 50 percent, and students made gains in setting goals, listening and relaxing.

The curriculum is catching on throughout the state. Over the last two years, about 80 Vermont elementary, middle and high school teachers have gone through CML’s mindfulness training.

At Winooski’s JFK Elementary School, 16 teachers use the Modern Mindfulness software in their classrooms. Stefanie Hamble’s fifthgrade class does a five-minute lesson after math each day. The lessons may be short, but Hamble said they help to center and relax the class.

Grykien said she is impressed with the way her class has internalized the mindfulness exercises they’ve been practicing since September. “I see the students taking deep breaths during a test. I hear them giving kind, encouraging words to each other,” she said. “They tell stories about how it helps them with relationships, not only at school, but at home and with friends, too.”

Two years ago, CML received a grant to develop software to implement mindfulness education in schools. For six months, CML piloted a program at

Her students agreed. “In recess, when we were playing in a big group, I was kind of getting mad at people,” fifth grader Yatrika Dhamala recalled. “I took a deep breath and calmed down.” K

the Center for mindful Learning offers customizable mindfulness training for elementary, middle and high school teachers and school inservice presentations throughout the year. For more information, contact Lindsay Foreman at info@ cml.me.

Fifth-graders at Champlain Elementary School

i see students taking deep breaths during tests. i hear them giving kind, encouraging words to each other.

KAtHerine Gry Kien

Seasonal Reads

In honor of Black History Month, Kids VT asked local educators to recommend children’s books that illuminate the African American experience.

The Story Of Ruby Bridges

BY ROBERT COLES

Coles tells the true story of Ruby Bridges, a 5-year-old African American girl integrated into an all-white school in New Orleans in 1960.

Ruby was “incredibly brave and compassionate,” says Nari Penson, senior teacher at the Schoolhouse in South Burlington. “I’ve read the story to my kindergarten class. They are always slightly horrified by what Ruby has to go through. They identify with her age and are so proud of her by the end of the story.”

✱ Book Review Winners

Each month Kids VT invites enthusiastic young critics to send us their reading recommendations for the Book Review contest. Here are this month’s winners; we’ve included excerpts from some of our favorite reviews, below. Each of these readers receives a $25 gift certificate to Burlington’s Crow Bookshop.

Varsha Karthikeyan, 11

WILLISTON recommends:

Wonder

BY R.J. PALACIO

“My favorite part was when August went to Via’s play. August has a deformed face, but since the play was very important to his sister Via, August was very brave and courageous to go.”

Oliver Orvis, 9

ESSEX recommends:

Survivors #2: A Hidden Enemy

Ages 4-8

Amy Hodgepodge Series

BY KIM AND KEVIN KNOTTS

Amy Hodges is a shy homeschooler who has recently started attending traditional school. She earned her nickname, “Hodgepodge,” because of her heritage: Japanese, African American, Korean and white.

Ages 7-10

Ages 10+

BY ERIN HUNTER

“This book is action packed and full of tragedies, mysteries and fun tricks.”

Maria “Fern” Murphy, 8

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. recommends:

George’s Marvelous Medicine

BY ROALD DAHL

in

Winnie Looby, a graduate teaching fellow in educational leadership and policy studies at the University of Vermont, says her 7-year-old enjoys this chapter-book series. “The main character and her friends are of mixed racial and ethnic backgrounds, which is a plus for our family, since we are all of mixed heritage.”

Students on Strike: Jim Crow, Civil Rights, Brown, And Me

BY JOHN A. STOKES WITH LOIS WOLFE

In this memoir, Stokes writes about helping to end school segregation. In 1951, he and a group of fellow students staged a walkout to protest the atrocious conditions in their all-black Virginia high school.

“It demonstrates how adversity can be overcome,” says Infinite Culcleasure, a community organizer for Parents for Change. “It tells a great story of how an individual was able to thrive in a confluence of exceptional circumstances, and it reads so fluidly, it can be finished in a day!”

“I liked when George was giving Grandma the medicine and she went up like a rocket, shouting, ‘Help! Call the fire department! I’m on fire!’”

Dahlia Rubin, 9

BURLINGTON recommends:

The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell

BY CHRIS COLFER

“The story is about a girl and a boy who are twins. Their dad has died, and they were very attached to him. But a part of him that they still have is this fairy tale book. They used to love the stories when they were little. One day they fall into the book.”

Kids With a Cause

Enosburg Falls teens fight tobacco on their own turf

BY MEGAN JAMES

Back: Tyler Martel; middle, from left: Bella Carter, Natalie Jackson, Danielle Perry, Kylie Bryce, Michaela Lombard; sitting: Amelia Parent; and front: Haley Thompson

According to students at Enosburg Falls High School, the biggest health threat facing their classmates isn’t drugs, alcohol or even cigarettes. It’s chewing tobacco. Kids aren’t allowed to drink or smoke at school, but some go to class with chew in their mouths and carry around containers to use as spittoons.

“Last year, there were so many kids that would just walk around with a bottle in their pocket, and they would, like, do it during class, when the teacher wasn’t looking,” says 11th grader Natalie Jackson.

On a school field trip last year, 11th grader Kylie Bryce says she woke up from a nap on the bus to find chew spit on her blanket.

In rural Franklin County, says guidance counselor Sandra Brauer, chew is “a rite of passage for the guys. It’s traditional; it happens in their families.” Its prevalence at the school has been “disgusting,” she says. And harmful — chewing tobacco can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, heart disease and various types of oral cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. And because chew contains nicotine, kids get addicted to it.

A few years ago, it was so ubiquitous, Brauer says, “You’d walk down the hallway or up the stairs and there was spit all over the place.” And teachers were ignoring the problem.

Eleventh grader Hannah Johnson found it harder to ignore.

“My family members and my friends chew, and it can hurt them,” she says. “I would rather not see them with cancer, because I care about them.”

So Hannah and her friends, including Natalie and Kylie, decided to take action. The three teens are among a dozen students who are active in the Enosburg Falls chapter of Our Voices Xposed, the state’s high school antitobacco program. The EFHS group meets once a month to engage in hands-on projects aimed at convincing kids and community members to stop using tobacco products.

Over the past few years, EFHS students have helped create smokefree zones in town; they ran a successful community postcard drive, conducted research and lobbied the high school faculty. Those e orts are not only paying o in substantive changes, they’re fostering leadership and advocacy skills among the kids.

About 400 youngsters across the state are involved with OVX and its middle school equivalent, Vermont Kids Against Tobacco. Both e orts were established by the Vermont Department of Health: VKAT in 1995; OVX in 2001. Fifteen high schools currently have OVX chapters.

It’s an apt time to evaluate youth tobacco use. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the surgeon general’s landmark report that linked smoking to lung cancer. And a new report from the current surgeon general has revealed some chilling new findings.

“Smoking really is even worse than we knew,” Thomas Frieden, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told NPR’s “Morning Edition” last month. Cigarettes have now been proven to cause diabetes, colorectal and liver cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, erectile dysfunction, impaired fertility, and immune-system weakness. They can even cause stroke in nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke.

“If we don’t act now, 5.6 million of our children will be killed by tobacco,” Frieden said. The OVX kids have their work cut out for them.

WHAT ABOUT CHEW?

On a recent weekday afternoon, a dozen Enosburg Falls OVX teens sat down with several boxes of pizza to evaluate the prevalence of smoking, and chewing, where they live: Franklin County. Amy Brewer, a health educator from Northwestern Medical Center and a longtime collaborator with the group, brought copies of the recently released 2013 Youth Risk Behavior Survey.

Every two years since 1993, the survey has asked middle and high school students about behaviors such as tobacco and drug use, alcohol consumption, and sexual activity. The results suggest that the health department’s antitobacco e orts are making a di erence. In 1999, 54 percent of Vermont high school students reported having smoked a whole cigarette. In 2013, only 24 percent said they had.

But the rates in Franklin County are still relatively high. Eleventh grader Haley Thompson speculates that’s because “our town is in such a rural area, it’s what teenagers rely on to keep them busy.”

At the meeting, Brewer asked the kids to read through the results and identify their county’s strengths and weaknesses.

The kids were shocked to learn that 14 percent of Franklin County students said they smoked a whole cigarette before age 13 — twice the state average.

They were also surprised to read that 20 percent of Franklin County students who smoked in the 30 days before taking the survey had bought their own cigarettes.

Seventy-four percent of Franklin County youth responded they thought it “would be easy to get cigarettes.” Brauer, the group’s faculty adviser, noted, “A lot of students just go in and buy them.”

The kids continued through the survey, reading the results out loud. In category after category, their county lagged the rest of the state. One survey question asked students if they believe that a majority of high school students smoke cigarettes — 23 percent said yes.

“Do they have a question like that for chew?” Kylie asked. “Because a lot of people think everybody does that here.”

The most recent survey doesn’t have that question, but Brewer said she’d take the suggestion to the health department.

The EFHS kids’ focus on chew began a few years ago when they invited a dentist from South Hero to talk to them about its harmful e ects. In an e ort to find out how many kids were actually using the stu , “Every time they saw a circle in the pocket or a wad in the mouth, they’d make a note,” said Brewer. The

My family members and my friends chew, and it can hurt them.

I would rather not see them with cancer, because I care about them.

HANNAH JOHNSON

I think it’s great when you can get a group of kids who are willing to take a stand.

CHRIS CHAGNON

Hyer Learning & Diagnostics

Read. Write. Think.

kids compiled their findings — which revealed that dip was indeed prevalent in the school — and took them to a faculty meeting.

GOLDEN

Since then, awareness of the chew problem at the school has grown. Last fall, the OVX group launched its latest campaign: to get local doctors and dentists to talk to all of their young patients about the dangers of chewing tobacco.

Under the guidance of another adult, Sarah Jo Willey, who runs the business leadership program at nearby Cold Hollow Career Center, they created a short video appeal they plan to send to medical professionals in their community.

“Dentists and doctors are trusted,” 12th grader Bella Carter explained. “You want the people who are taking care of you to care about you.”

AcTiVisT Rep

The student population in Enosburg Falls has turned over twice since the high school got involved in antitobacco advocacy, so the current crop of OVXers has a reputation to maintain.

The biggest accomplishment of its predecessors: two smoke-free parks in town.

Back in 2008, OVX students spent an afternoon picking up trash at Lincoln Park, which is adjacent to the school. “Within 20 minutes, the kids picked up — I can still remember the number — 1827 cigarettes,” said Brauer. “Tobacco outweighed the other trash by huge proportions.”

Motivated by their findings, the group visited Enosburg Falls’ annual Vermont Dairy Festival to conduct a survey. They wanted to know if people would support a smoke-free park; more than 80 percent said they would.

The kids presented their survey results to the town and, by the end of the school year, both Lincoln and Maple parks were officially

declared smoke-free. “It was really empowering,” recalled Brauer.

A more recent community campaign involved the local Hannaford supermarket, whose smokeless tobacco products are visible in a display case near the checkout aisles —at eye level with small children.

OVX kids did their research and learned that according to tobacco-control standards, such products should be displayed more than three feet off the ground. They invited the store manager, Chris Chagnon, to come speak with them.

Then, with his encouragement, they launched a community postcard campaign.

They collected 700 postcards — each with a unique message from community members explaining why they didn’t want tobacco products displayed where children could see them — which they sent to Hannaford corporate headquarters. Before the kids could follow up with the representative there, said Brewer, they learned she had already called Chagnon and talked to him about redesigning the display. “I got a call from someone at our corporate office, who was very pleased with the initiative they took,” he says.

The redesign has yet to happen, but the kids are hopeful it will soon. Chagnon was impressed with the group’s tenacity. “I think it’s great when you can get a group of kids who are willing to take a stand,” he said. “Especially knowing that they’re going up against a big company, as opposed to some of the smaller, individually owned stores. These kids had the enthusiasm and put themselves out there.”

The OVX kids recently finished another, more lighthearted project: a series of posters featuring photographs of their pets sitting next to

Last year, there were so many kids that would just walk around with a bottle in their pocket and they would, like, do it during class, when the teacher wasn’t looking.

NATALie JAcKsoN

slogans such as “Secondhand smoke makes me feel ‘ru .’”

At their recent meeting, they brainstormed names of local businesses that would hang the posters. Sarah Jo Willey encouraged them to reach out directly to business owners. If they asked the owner of Bates Farm Home & Garden, for example, he might agree to let them staple the small posters to bags.

“You have a tremendous opportunity to demonstrate your leadership in this community, challenging adults to think di erently,” Willey told the kids. “It’s something you can do way better than we can.”

FUNDING THE FIGHT

Though individual schools run OVX chapters, they rely on outside financial support to keep the groups going. The Vermont Department of Health created OVX shortly after the major tobacco companies agreed to pay a $200 billion settlement to states to recover their tobacco-related health care costs, and to fund e orts to prevent kids from picking up the habit.

Vermont’s settlement funds went toward the formation of several community coalitions to prevent alcohol, tobacco and drug use. But a separate $1.5 million grant from the American Legacy Foundation — which was established with settlement funds — went toward the creation of OVX, according to Rhonda Williams, a chronic disease prevention chief with the health department. Since then, the youth program has received additional funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The original goal for OVX was simple: Provide opportunities for kids to learn the truth about tobacco advertising. Young folks should understand that they’re being played, Williams said, that the tobacco industry sees new smokers as replacements for older ones who have died. “That’s a powerful kernel of truth to expose to Vermont youth,” Williams said.

Still, the future of OVX’s funding is uncertain. “We’re toward the end of a five-year cycle with our CDC funds, and it’s unclear what it will exactly look like when we’re invited to apply for more funding,” says Williams, who wants to see the program continue. “Evidence certainly points to the fact

that tobacco-control programs, if they are adequately funded, do have a positive impact on reduction.”

According to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, the OVX anti-chew e orts appear to be paying o ; just 12 percent of Franklin County high school students reported using chew in the past 30 days, down from 16 percent in 2011. That was an exciting find for the kids.

Noted Bella Carter, “You can actually see the change happening.”

Anti-tobacco Voices Across Vermont Elese

Snay, a senior at Milton High School, has always wanted her dad to quit smoking, but until she joined Our Voices Xposed, the state’s antitobacco youth program, last summer, she wasn’t sure she had the tools to convince him.

Last November, Snay joined more than 70 kids from around northern Vermont at the annual youth summit for OVX and its middle school equivalent, Vermont Kids Against Tobacco, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Burlington.

Many of these kids, who spent the day learning to deliver their message to the media, have personal connections to the cause — their parents smoke, or their grandparents died of lung cancer. “Every kid has a right to breathe clean air,” said Gabbi, a student at St. Albans City School, referring to the program’s Free My Ride campaign to keep secondhand smoke out of cars.

Milton Middle Schooler Megan was psyched to get her message out. “I like to give back to the world,” she said. “I want everyone to be healthy.”

Slip Slidin’ Away

The Kids VT guide to some of Vermont’s best sledding spots

Iexperienced my first childhood adrenaline rush hurtling downhill in Long Island’s Syosett Park on a classic wooden Flexible Flyer. At the time, the snow-covered community park hill seemed taller than Mount Everest. I bombed down headfirst, trying to ride as fast and far as I could.

Forty-something years later, I found myself pulling my two kids — Manya, 4, and Ezra, 20 months — up a slippery slope at Winooski’s Landry Park for their first-ever day of sledding. Halfway up the hill, as kids and parents screamed by us, I positioned my son in his older sister’s lap, gave her a quick tutorial on how to steer and slow down, then aimed them downhill.

Moments after I let go, the sled veered wildly o course — straight toward a chain-link fence. For a few terrifying seconds, my blood turned to ice. But the kids reached the bottom without incident. It was the perfect metaphor for parenting.

And they both enjoyed the ride. Normally cautious Manya was uncharacteristically enthusiastic. “Let’s go again!” she said.

To help you and your kids enjoy one of childhood’s greatest thrills, we’ve put together a guide to some of Vermont’s best sledding spots. While it’s virtually impossible to list them all in a state where nearly any sloped pasture will su ce, we’ve tried to identify tried-and-true hills, as well as a few slopes o the beaten path. You’ll find more online at kidsvt.com.

All slopes listed here are free and on public land unless otherwise indicated. If you try one of the few we’ve included on private property, please be mindful of landowners and respect all signage, fences, livestock and parking restrictions. And consider outfitting kids, and adults, in helmets so the fun never ends — for more tips, see “Fast and Furious: Sledding Safely.”

CHITTENDEN COUNTY

BURLINGTON COUNTRY CLUB

568 South Prospect Street, Burlington

This hill is located on private property, but sliders of all ages flock to it when the snow flies. From the club parking lot, walk due west until you spot the obvious downhill run. Depending upon their size and appetite for adventure, kids can push o at several di erent access points. The terrain is wide and diverse, with a long run-out at the bottom.

The country club does not o cially endorse sledding on its property, so you slide at your own risk. And be forewarned: The hill is easily accessible to students from the University of Vermont, Champlain College and much of Burlington, so it gets crowded with more than just small kids.

CALAHAN PARK

Locust Street, Burlington

Earl Handy, owner of Handy’s Lunch Counter, grew up in Burlington’s South End and has vivid memories of sledding down this hill. “My friends and I would walk over and spend hours upon hours there,” he says. “For me, Calahan Park was the place to go.”

The city-owned park o ers gentle, small- to medium-size slopes for tots, plus steeper, high-speed runs for more experienced sledders. The best part: All of them empty into a ball field, which provides a long and flat run-out. The only obstacles to avoid are a foul-line pole and two light stanchions. Parking is free and ample, with a playground nearby.

Handy, who attended Christ the King School just across Locust Street, fondly remembers one teacher, Sister Ursula, taking her students to sled at

BY KEN PICARD

Calahan after big snowstorms. The nun often joined in the fun — in a full habit!

Handy, now a parent, admits he hasn’t taken his twins, Nicholas and Genevieve, 5, to Calahan Park yet.

“Next year they’ll probably be ready,” he says. “Right now, we still sled on our front lawn at home. That way I don’t have to carry the sleds all the way back up the hill.”

CASEY’S HILL

68 Pleasant Valley Road, Underhill

Generations of Pleasant Valley residents have slid down this townowned hill, which o ers steep, wide runs with no obstacles or major hazards and a long run-out. “Casey’s Hill goes on forever,” says Mark Redmond, executive director of Spectrum Youth and Family Services. He and his 11-year-old son, Liam, are avid sledders. “It makes the Burlington Country Club look like a walk in the park. Take your kids there. They’ll love it!”

COURTESY OF KEN PICARD

Manya Graczyk-Picard and Riley Austin sled Cascade Park in Essex

For me, Calahan Park was the place to go.

EARL HANDY

CATAMOUNT OUTDOOR

FAMILY CENTER

592 Governor Chittenden Road, Williston

Since 1873, the McCullough family has owned this property, which includes a house built by Vermont’s first governor, Thomas Chittenden. Catamount o ers family-friendly sledding seven days a week, weather and conditions permitting. Sledding is free for kids 6 and under, $2 for those 7 and up. Bring your own sleds.

LANDRY PARK

Pine Street, Winooski

This short but steep hill starts narrow, then opens up into a wider run-out. Parents of toddlers beware: Older kids sometimes build moguls on the left-hand side of the slope. There’s one hazard at the bottom of the hill: a chain-link fence that surrounds the tennis court.

LAPLATTE NATURE PARK

Shelburne, behind the Shelburne Post Office

“I’m 54 years old and I still go sledding there,” Sarah Soule,

director of admissions and college counseling at Vermont Commons School in South Burlington, says of Shelburne’s reliable downhill slope.

“It’s phenomenal!”

The location o ers several good sledding runs, depending upon your skill level. A large hill to the north is long, wide and gentle, with a run-out that stops at a small creek. A larger bowl immediately to the south, located directly behind the post o ce, is steeper, bumpier and eventually leads into some woods. A sign at the post o ce directs vehicles to park in a lot o Shelburne Avenue.

Soule, who grew up on nearby Shelburne Point, often sledded the LaPlatte hill as a child. She now

mentors an 11-year-old girl named Makayla, who also loves to go sledding on the northern hill, even when the temps approach zero. “She keeps me outdoors all winter, which is great for me.”

Soule says that first-time sledders shouldn’t be intimidated by the size of the hill or the creek at the bottom; most sledders stop before reaching it. But for those who don’t, she adds, “Sometimes you just have to ditch and dive” to avoid it.

MT. PHILO STATE PARK

5425 Mt Philo Rd., Charlotte

The good news is there’s no entrance fee during the winter. The bad: It’s a long hike up the winding mountain road. But the payo is huge: a long, fast, challenging trip down. Mt. Philo is not recommended for very young or inexperienced sledders who are unable to stop or steer on their own.

OLD ROUND CHURCH

25 Round Church Road, Richmond

Even though this hill is short, you can really get moving on it. Optional reward: On the Rise Bakery is just across the road, serving pastries and hot cocoa. Limited parking is available.

for sliders of all ages.

SHARP PARK

204 Cobble Hill Road, Milton

This hill runs 300 vertical feet to the landing zone. The lower portion is gentle and suitable for younger kids; the higher portion is seriously steep. According to the park owners, sliders who push o from the top can pick up speed on the steeper slope, then fly out onto the flatter, more gradual slope for a smooth ride all the way down. Snow tubes work best from the launch spot on the lower slope, 75 feet up. The park also features a packed and groomed chute carved into the hill. Sharp Park, which is privately run, charges an entrance fee of $10 per vehicle. Two-hour snow tube rentals are $12. (The gate fee is waived if you rent two or more tubes.) Sliding is free with your own equipment, as there is no lift. A renovated barn has a warming area, restrooms, hot drinks and Vermont products for sale.

“The hill is great. It’s huge!” notes longtime Milton resident Lynn Caldwell, whose 13- and 15-year-old kids grew up sledding at Cobble Hill before the park had an entrance fee. Caldwell says Cobble Hill probably isn’t the best hill for preschoolers unless they start halfway down the hill.

Note: Helmets are mandatory for all children. The park has 35 children’s helmets and 10 adult helmets available at no charge.

ADDISON COUNTY

Centennial

ROCKY RIDGE GOLF CLUB

7470 Route 116, St. George

RALPH MYHRE GOLF COURSE

At the south end of the Middlebury College campus, adjacent to Alumni Stadium.

Five

This privately owned golf club isn’t far from downtown Hinesburg. From the parking lot, an east-facing slope starts steep and narrow but quickly opens up into a very wide and long downhill run that eventually banks southward. With the exception of a

This college-owned golf course o ers several slopes of varying degrees of di culty and is popular among college students and locals.

COURTESY OF PARKER SELLERS

Find more details about these sledding spots at kidsvt.com:

Woods, Burlington

Ethan Allen Park, Burlington

North Beach Park, Burlington Oakledge Park, Burlington Schmanska Park, Burlington

Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg

Tree Hill Park, Williston

The Long Trail, Bennington

Equinox Mountain, Manchester Living Memorial Park, Brattleboro

Sledding in a Warren backyard

Away

BELLOWS FREE ACADEMY FAIRFAX

75 Hunt Street, Fairfax

The school’s physical education classes and cross-country and other teams often use the long, steep hill behind the school. “If I were going to go sledding — besides in my own backyard — I’d go there,” says Michelle Brown, coach of the BFA-Fairfax varsity cheerleading team and a sales executive for Seven Days.

HARD’ACK RECREATION AREA

179 Congress Street, St. Albans

In addition to sledding, the nonprofit Hard’ack Recreation Area o ers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and groomed downhill skiing and snowboarding, with a 700-foot rope tow. No entrance fees or lift tickets are required, but donations are requested.

LAMOILLE COUNTY

MARSHALL HILL

282 Park Street, Stowe

In the 1970s, Marshall Hill was a ski slope with a 450-foot T-bar. In August 2013, the town of Stowe purchased the land and made it accessible to sledders. The south-facing hillside is broad, long and quite steep, but the open meadow below allows plenty of room to slow down and regroup. Parking is available in the nearby Stowe Elementary School lot.

WASHINGTON COUNTY

GRANVILLE GULF

between Warren and Granville

Warren-based architect Dave Sellers invented the Mad River Rocket, a short, maneuverable sled designed for a kneeling rider. Sellers, who at 75 is still an avid slider, recommends exploring a winding stretch of Route 100 just south of Warren toward Granville. Across the river on the western slope, Sellers and his son, Parker, 32, found a series of gullies created by the many smaller creeks that flow downhill into the river. After a heavy snowfall, Sellers says, the gullies become “natural half-pipes” which are ideal for sledding.

“You just get out of your car with

your Rocket, and there must be 20 or 30,” Dave Sellers says. His son, who has a 1-year-old of his own, says it’s about a half hour hike up to the top of each hill and a five- to 10-minute run down.

Note: This logged but still wooded terrain is recommended only for experienced sliders with maneuverable sleds. Helmets are strongly advised.

HUBBARD PARK Parkway Street, Montpelier

By far the most popular sledding hill in Montpelier, Hubbard Park attracts sliders of all ages. Little ones can ride the smaller, gentler hills located to the right of, and just above, the main sledding hill. The Montpelier Parks Department asks sledders and snowboarders who perform jumps to do so on the sides and top half of the hill only and to be mindful of smaller riders.

Note: A berm at the bottom of the hill is meant to keep sledders o the road, but when conditions are icy, it’s easy to ride over it.

LINCOLN GAP

Warren

MARK REDMOND

Fast and Furious: Sle ing Safely

Cruising downhill at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour is exhilarating but not without obvious risks. Each year, more than 22,000 Americans end up in the emergency room from sledding, tobogganing and snow-tubing accidents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most of those injuries are minor. But in 2011, a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that about one in three kids hospitalized from a sledding accident had suffered a significant head injury; one in 10 left with a permanent disability.

Here are some ways to make sledding safer:

• Wear a helmet and dress in layers to provide extra warmth and padding.

• Choose a slope free of obstacles such as trees, rocks, poles and stumps.

• Avoid hills that end in a parking lot, road, stream, pond or fence.

• Never sled on an ice-covered slope or one with large bare patches.

• Face forward and ride down the hill feet first.

• Allow only one sled at a time down the hill, and don’t walk up a section of slope where others are sledding.

• Use a sled that can be steered.

• Have a parent present: Collisions are about three times more likely when adults aren’t around.

• Never ride a sled, tube or toboggan pulled by a motor vehicle.

When the Lincoln Gap Road, which links the towns of Warren and Lincoln, closes in winter, it opens for sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Drive uphill until you see the road-closure sign, then park on the street. From the Warren side, it’s about a 30-minute hike up to enjoy a two-mile-long downhill run. This slope is not recommended for little tykes, or inexperienced or weak-kneed sledders. Helmets are strongly recommended for anyone sledding this hill.

SUGARBUSH RESORT GOLF COURSE

1091 Golf Course Road, Warren

This privately owned sledding hill is popular among families in the Mad River Valley, including those with young kids. One local resident recommends hole No. 4 for its excellent short, steep and wide-open slope.

UNION 32 HIGH SCHOOL

930 Gallison Hill Road, Montpelier

Behind the school is a long, primo slope that empties onto the football field. There are no obstacles or hazards to avoid, so it’s good for kids of all ages.

Guinevere Brownell and Kristin DeGraff tube down Mt. Philo

Casey’s Hill goes on forever. It makes the Burlington Country Club look like a walk in the park.

Camps sC hedule

Weeks of April 21 | June 16 | June 23 July 7 | July 21 | August 4th | August 11th

Ages 5 to 13, a fun week of engaging physical activity. Kids respond to the action and excitement of the martial arts, while parents appreciate the discipline, focus, and important life skills it teaches. Fun, active, and educational.

Gre At F or m A rti A l A rt be G inners

Come AWAy W ith A n exC itin G ne W hobby. 5 Chrisemily lane milton | 893-8893 martialwayvt.com

Enrollment

Enrollment

Applications for the enrollment lottery are being accepted for the 2014-15 school year. Now o ering an extended day option until 4 pm!

creative summer fun

camps for ages 4-19

plus adult & teen classes

AGES 6-8: Shipwrecked! Pirates & Palaces; Secret Agent Academy; Horses, Snails, & Fairy Tales; Magic Tree House Adventures; Broadway Kids; Ultimate Superheroes; Fairy & Unicorn Ballet; Musical Playground

AGES 8-10: Broadway From Start to Finish; Wizards, Wands & Magical Lands; Aliens vs. Vampires; Lights... Camera... Action; Star Wars: Jedi Training; Camp Half Blood; Jazz Improv; Zombie vs. Ninjas!; History Comes Alive!

AGES 11+: Broadway From Start to Finish; Broadway Bound; Hip-Hop & Jazz Dance; Radio Plays; The Hunger Games... a Comedy!; Jazz Improv; Summertime Jazz Program; Flash Mob & Music: Video Dance Camp; Monty Python Sketchfest; History Comes Alive!

AGES 13-19: Summer Musicals (auditions 3/8); Queer & Allied Youth Theater

2014 CaMP GuIDe

Survey Says...

Vermont parents sound off about sending kids to camp

By c a T hy Resme R

WheRe can youR Kids leaRn to dance like a ninja, grow vegetables and help the other fellow first? Summer camp, of course!

If you’re planning to send your kids to camp, now’s the time to start signing up for sessions. This month’s Kids VT Camp Guide includes information about regional camps, as well as parent responses to our first-ever Camp Experience Survey. We asked our readers to share their knowledge about local summer camps, and they didn’t disappoint.

We heard from 129 respondents from all over the state. Most were moms, but a few dads chimed in, as well. Nearly 90 percent said they plan to send their kids to at least one camp this summer. About 66 percent plan to enroll in more than one; 11 percent said they’d be signing up for five or more this year.

A handful of parents admitted that they’d never sent kids to camp, but most of our respondents — 96 percent — said they’d be enrolling at least one child in a daytime program. About a third said they’d be sending one or more kids to sleepaway camp.

The experienced parents had lots of tips and suggestions to share. We’ve excerpted some of them in this month’s issue of Kids VT; we’ll print more feedback in next month’s Camp Guide. In April, we’ll let their kids explain why they can’t wait to go back to camp.

Want to talk with camp staff directly?

Come to our 17th annual Kids VT Camp and School Fair, Saturday, February 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Burlington Hilton. It’s a chance to have face-to-face conversations with representatives from more than 50 camps and schools. Hope to see you there!

Why do parents send their kids to camp?

Hiring a sitter and working out a weekly rate would be more affordable, but I don’t think it would provide as much adventure.

It’s a great opportunity to explore something new, or to be outside doing things they wouldn’t normally do.

mauReen Tansey, noRTh haRTland

My kids have met some good buddies that they otherwise probably wouldn’t have.

Julie GRamlinG, FeRRisBuRGh

Last year, my 11-year-old learned that he can ride his mountain bike from Williston to Essex, then ride on the trails, go for a swim and ride all the way back in the rain without complaining. That would definitely not be possible with mom or dad leading the way.

BecKy ThaRp, WillisTon, Kids VT conTRiBuToR

helen RocK, BuRlinGTon, Kids VT conTRiBuToR

At what age are kids ready to go to camp?

There’s no one-size-fits-all campreadiness age, as child development experts will tell you. Most of our survey respondents — about 55 percent — said their kids started at age 5 or 6. Another 24 percent waited until their kids were 7 or 8. And 20 percent said they sent kids age 4 or younger to camp.

But it can be hard to find programs aimed at kids younger than 4, some of whom may not be in preschool yet. A Shelburne mom noted that Shelburne Farms used to have a half-day camp for 3-year-olds, but now camps there only accept kids 4 and up. “Probably wise,” she wrote.

Many parents enroll their kids in day camp for a few years before shipping them off to sleepaway. Sara Haskins of Morrisville said she started her kids on day camp at age 5, and sleepaway at age 9.

Burlington mom Alice Stokes said her kids started overnight camp a little sooner. “My oldest went to sleepaway camp at age 8,” she said. “My middle child is 8 this year and may go to sleepaway camp. We haven’t decided, but I think he’s ready!”

What are some of Vermont kids’ favorite camps?

Day camps run by Shelburne Farms, Burlington City Arts, Davis Studios, the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts and Petra Cliffs came up most frequently in response to this question.

Rachel Shelley of Burlington said her kids love the BCA camps. “For my youngest, the Tadpole camps have been a big hit, and my older son now loves all the clay camps,” she wrote.

Sheldon mom Deanna Haag recommended Shelburne Farms’ “Horses, Snails and Fairy Tales” day camp: “So good, my daughter wanted to do it again!”

The cooking camp at Davis Studios was tops with Julia Andrews of Westford, who sent her daughter there: “She still uses the recipes!”

Several parents mentioned

sleep-away camps, including Covenant Hills Christian Camp in Cabot, Camp Dudley in Westport, N.Y. and its sister camp, Camp Dudley at Kiniya in Colchester.

Two YMCA-run camps in the Champlain Islands, Camp Abnaki for boys and Camp Hochelaga for girls, earned high marks. Both offer day and sleepaway sessions. Brian Pine of Burlington gave a shout out to Camp Abnaki, whose motto is “help the other fellow first.” Pine is a fan “because the boys have some freedom and build lasting friendships.”

Erinn Rolland of Waterbury recommended Camp for Me, a day camp in Stowe. “All the kids are adopted, and that creates an immediate connection and bond,” she said.

Many parents mentioned theme camps that offer kids a chance to play sports, ride bikes, practice an instrument, act in plays, try welding, go sailing, build with LEGOs, ride horses, practice archery and gymnastics, and/or play outside. Jennifer Kalbfleisch of Fairfax says the St. Albans Rec Department swim camp is her kids’ “all-around favorite because they love the water and the staff is fantastic.” Her oldest son also enjoyed a preschool science camp put on by the Fairfax Rec Department.

“Partners in Adventure allows kids with and without disabilities to participate in tons of amazing activities at various levels,” wrote Laurie Mumley of Shelburne.

Sara Garland of East Montpelier said “ninja dance camp” at the Contemporary Dance and Fitness studio in Montpelier was a hit with her girls. “It was a great introduction to self-expression through dance,” she wrote, “wrapped in the coolness of being a ninja.”

Farm-themed programs are also popular. Miriam Block of Starksboro recommended Maybelle Farm in Wardsboro, where her kids “learned how to needle felt and take care of sheep.”

And Burlington dad Jules Fishelman said his kids love New Village Farm in Survey SayS… p. 29 »

“It allows us to appreciate each other even more when we have time away from each other.”

Erin Kihm, BrisTol

“I have the summer off. For me, sending kids to camp is a vacation of sorts for myself!”

mEgAn cAnnEllA, EAsT monTpEliEr

CAMP GUIDE 2014

2014

SUGARBUSH ADVENTURE CAMPS

MINI ADVENTURE CAMP (ages 3-5)

Mon – Fri, 9 AM – 4 PM

Jun 23 – Aug 22 (excluding July 4) Activities include swimming, hiking, rock climbing, arts and more. Early drop-off and late pick-up available. $265/child/week.

ADVENTURE CAMP (ages 6-12)

Mon – Fri, 9 AM– 4 PM

Jun 30 – Aug 22 (excluding July 4) Biking, ziplining, hiking, naturalist tours, swimming, climbing and more. Lunch included. $315/child/week.

SATURDAy ADVENTURE CAMP (ages 6-12)

Saturdays, 9 AM – 1 PM (half-day) or 9 AM – 4 PM (full-day)

Jul 5 – Aug 23

Same as the Adventure Camp, but offered as a single day camp on Saturdays. Lunch included. $90/child/full-day; $60/child/half-day.

MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURE CAMP (ages 8-17)

Mon – Fri, 9 AM – 4 PM

Jul 21 – 25, Aug 11 – 15, and Aug 18 – 22 $420/child/week.

JUNIOR GOLF CAMP (ages 6-17)

Tue – Fri, 9:30 AM – 12 PM

Jul 8 – 11 and Aug 12 – 15

Camp focuses on intro to golf, instruction, course knowledge, rules, games and more. Taught by accomplished PGA Professionals. Lunch and gift included. $375/child/week.

JUNIOR TENNIS CAMP (ages 8-14)

Tue – Fri, 9:30 AM – 12 PM

Jul 8 – 11 and Aug 12 – 15

Hit the tennis courts each afternoon for drills and games led by the coaches of New England Tennis Holidays (NETH). For reservations, call NETH at 800.869.0949. $175/child/week.

ALSO AVAILABLE

• Day rates for Mini Adventure, Adventure and Mountain Bike Adventure Camps

• First Timer One- and Three-Day Mountain Bike Lesson Packages

• Private and Group Mountain Bike Guide Service for all levels

For reservations and more information, visit SUGARBUSH . C o M or call 800.53.SUGAR.

Survey Says…

Shelburne. “Great staff, lots to do, and the kids were proud to show some of their labor by bringing home veggies!” he wrote.

Kids VT contributor Tasha Lehman of Williston was surprised to find that her three boys enjoyed family camp at Camp Ohana on Lake Fairlee. “They loved trying new things and being adventurous together as a family.”

Has your child ever had a bad experience at camp?

The vast majority of respondents answered “no” to this question, but a few parents reported disappointments and

mishaps. We heard of a few instances of broken bones, bullying, untrained counselors in over their heads, mean girls and a case of Lyme disease. Most parents were reluctant to name names, but several said they were underwhelmed by the parks-and-rec camps in their towns. The most common complaint? Bad weather forced the kids indoors, and the counselors were ill-prepared to deal. “I wished I’d asked them what the rainy day plan was,” lamented one East Montpelier mom. “There were several rainy (pouring!) days during camp, and they ended up sitting in a crowded, sweaty room on the floor.”

some

Ages 7 - 12. Available Monday - Friday for six weekly sessions, June 16 - Aug. 1, 2014. Shuttle service included.

Let them go, they’ll have a blast.

Kim Tardie, Barre

Kids have great fun, and in Vermont there are so many wonderful options. sean recicar, colcHesTer

What advice do you have for parents who’ve never sent their kids to camp?

2014 Confluence Adventure Camps

Talent Development Institute

June 23rd-27th: Ages 6-10

June 23rd-27th: Ages 6-10

July 7th-11th: Ages 11-16

July 7th-11th: Ages 11-16

June 23rd-27th: Ages 6-10

For advanced students entering grades 4-9 who want to have fun while learning! Johnson State College

June 22-28, 2014

August 11th-15th: Ages 6-10

August 11th-15th: Ages 6-10

July 7th-11th: Ages 11-16

August 18th-22nd: Ages 11-16

August 18th-22nd: Ages 11-16

August 11th-15th: Ages 6-10

August 18th-22nd: Ages 11-16

“TDI has provided an environment where being intelligent is encouraged….TDI has given me confidence to be myself outside the camp and introduced me to friends I look forward to seeing each year.” — Camper

For more info and electronic version of brochure, please go to vermontgifted.org and tdivermont.com. Or contact Lucy Bogue at lucybogue@yahoo.com or 658-9941.

YOU’RE GONNA

OVER THIS CAMP!

Swimming | Dancing | Watersports

1 to 8 week sessions

Counselor/Camper ratio of 1:5 Located on beautiful Lake Champlain 802.899.3479 dunkleysgymcamp@aol.com www.DunkleysGymnasticsCamp.org

MUSIC DAY CAMP 2014

Explore a great variety of musical activities with some of the best music educators in Vermont.

May 2014 Auditions for Orchestras & Choruses School-year programs for students K-12 Visit

Music Day Camp has two levels of Band and String Orchestra, chamber music, and fun electives that may include jazz band, chorus, conducting, composition, improvisation, art, outdoor recreation and others.

BAND STUDENTS

woodwind, brass, percussion Must be entering grades 6-10 in Fall 2014

ORCHESTRA STUDENTS string players must be entering grades 4-10 in Fall 2014

Tuition: $295 • Early Registration Discount: $275 with full payment by April 15 Register by May 30, 2014 • Financial Aid available • Visit www.vyo.org to enroll.

Survey Says…

Check the background of the camp thoroughly. Ask other parents who have sent their kids before.

sTephanie conlon, hunTingTon

If you have trouble communicating with the folks in charge before it begins, that’s a sign that it will be worse once camp starts.

Joanna may, Richmond

amy liVingsTon, BuRlingTon

It can be expensive, but so worth it. And it’s worth going to the camp fair in February to learn about all the opportunities.

aimee upchuRch, essex

If kids are apprehensive, try to sign up with a friend.

If they don’t want to go, don’t force them.

sTephanie Van BlunK, eden

KIDSVT.COM

FEB CALENDAR

Garbage cans, hubcaps and brooms are repurposed as instruments in the touring production of “STOMP,” which graces the stage of Rutland’s Paramount Theatre for two nights. This heart-pounding show — the brainchild of street buskers in Brighton, England — premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 1991. It has run for almost 20 years at the Orpheum Theatre in New York City and has appeared at the Academy Awards, the Lincoln Memorial and the London Olympics. The powerful, athletic performers and electrifying rhythms are sure to get Vermonters grooving in their seats.

Like Fletcher Allen Health Care on Facebook and get

weekly updates from Dr. First!

1 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Craft School Saturday Drop-In: Artsy types create seasonal clay objects in this ever-changing weekly series. Projects available for pickup at a later date. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $12; $10 each with a friend or participating parent. Info, 985-3648.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Family Clay: Creative kids and their parents make memories firing and glazing special pieces to be picked up later. All ages. ArtisTree Community Arts Center, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-noon. $20 per parent-child pair; $5 per additional family member; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Itsy Bitsy Fashion Design: Little couturiers learn hand sewing techniques to create fashionable outfits and accessories for their favorite dolls. Ages 6-8. BCA Center, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166.

Kids Craft: Foam Love Bug: Pint-size creators get in the Valentine’s Day spirit, making a hanging creepy crawler with di erent-size hearts. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646.

Baby & Maternity

Breast-Feeding Support Group: The Vermont Department of Health organizes this informative social group for moms, babies and families. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, first Saturday of every month, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 524-7970.

Community

Jay Peak Sleigh Rides: Massive draft horses take families on a winter adventure through lower mountain terrain. Weather and temperature dependent. Jay Peak Resort, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $5-10; book reservations at the Tram Haus Lodge Front Desk. Info, 988-2611.

Shelburne Sleigh Rides: Weather permitting, jingling horses trot visitors over the snow on a wintry tour of rolling acres. Rides leave every 20 minutes; seats are first come, first served. Shelburne Farms, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $8-10; free for children under 3. Info, 985-8686.

Dance

‘The Sleeping Beauty’: More than 50 dancers from the Rudolf Nureyev State Ballet Theatre in Russia perform this beloved fairytale about a beautiful princess triumphing over adversity. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7 p.m. $65-75; $200 per family four pack. Info, 760-4634.

Education

Kids Workshops: Children learn do-it-yourself skills and tool safety as they build a di erent project each session. Ages 5-12. Home Depot, Williston, first Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.noon. Free; preregister at workshops.homedepot. com. Info, 872-0039.

Fairs & Festivals

‘Kids VT’ Camp & School Fair: Parents and campers-to-be get personal attention and detailed information as representatives from dozens of camps and schools from Vermont and beyond present their programs. All ages. Hilton Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5482, ext. 76.

Stowe Winter Carnival: A Vermont ski town gets its party on with cold-weather fun for all ages, from snow-volleyball tournaments to icecarving competitions to Kids Karnival Kaos. Various locations, Stowe, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Various prices; see gostowe.com for details and schedule. Info, 253-7321.

Food

Burlington Winter Farmers Market: Farmers, artisans and producers o er fresh and prepared

foods, crafts, and more in a bustling indoor marketplace with live music and lunch seating. All ages. Memorial Auditorium, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 310-5172.

Chocolate-Dipping Demonstration: Fans of cocoa-covered confectioneries experience the tempering and dipping process. All ages. Laughing Moon Chocolates, Stowe, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 253-9591.

Rutland Winter Farmers Market: More than 50 vendors sell local produce, cheese, homemade bread and other made-in-Vermont products. All ages. Vermont Farmers Food Center, Rutland, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 753-7269.

Games

Chess Club: Game players have fun with the library’s new sets. Ages 9 and under must bring an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public Skating: Graceful girls and boys sail across the ice. All ages. B.O.R. Ice Arena, Barre, 1:30-3 p.m. $3-4; $5 skate rentals. Info, 476-0257.

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: Youngsters master basic yoga poses through games, songs and dance. Mindfulness activities help them improve their focus and concentration. Ages 3-9. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. $15; preregister. Info, 864-9642.

Lyndon Center Public Skating: Graceful gliders circle the ice at this Northeast Kingdom rink. All ages. Fenton W. Chester Ice Arena, Lyndon Center, 2-3:45 p.m. $4-5; $3 for skate rentals. Info, 626-9361.

Rutland Public Skating: Small athletes partake in slippery fun. All ages. Spartan Arena, Rutland, 4:30-6:45 p.m. $5; $5 skate rentals. Info, 775-3100.

Shelburne Open Gym: Tumbling tots burn energy on trampolines, balance beams, rings and more. Gymstar Gymnastics, Shelburne, 9 & 10 a.m. $3-6. Info, 985-8948.

South Burlington Public Skating: Skaters of all ages lace up and hit the rink. Cairns Arena, South Burlington, 2:40-4:10 p.m. $2-5; $3 skate rental. Info, 658-5577.

Winter Trails Festival: The Green Mountain Club hosts a day of winter hikes, indoor and outdoor kids’ activities, live music and more. All ages. (See calendar spotlight on page 45.) Green Mountain Club, Waterbury, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $810; free for children. Info, 241-8320.

Yoga Tots: Toddlers and parents stretch it out in exercises meant to build self-esteem and positive attitudes toward physical activity. Ages 1-6. Highgate Town O ce Building, first Saturday of every month, 9-9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Library & Books

Cleo the Therapy Dog: Canine companions visit with a friendly pooch from Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Ages 3 and up. Milton Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Read to Sara the Therapy Dog: Book lovers bring a selection from home or borrow one from the library to entertain an attentive canine. Grades K and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Nature & Science

ECHO Story Explorers: Winter Bears: Little listeners learn about cold-weather hibernation. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $9.50-12.50; free for members and children under 2. Info, 864-1848.

Fingerprints: Kids get up close and personal with their prints, exploring what makes them unique. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission,

$11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Microscopic Investigations: Microscopes help kids discover there’s more to the world than meets the eye. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

My Sky: Astronomy enthusiasts learn about celestial objects in this program geared toward kids ages 3-8. 12:30-1 p.m. $2; $5 per family. Info, 748-2372.

Night Sky: Kids and adults take a 30-minute tour of stars, planets and constellations. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 3:30-4 p.m. $2; $5 per family. Info, 748-2372.

Planetarium Presentation: An astronomy expert o ers a guided tour of the cosmos. Ages 5 and up. 1:30-2:30 p.m. $5. Info, 748-2372.

Theater

Saturday Drama Club: Thespians help Very Merry Theatre produce a show in just three hours. Ages 5-12. Very Merry Theatre,

Claes

Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $15 or pay what you can. Info, 863-6607.

2 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: Moms bring their pre-crawling kids to an all-levels flowing yoga class addressing sore shoulders and back pain through gentle core work. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, first Sunday of every month, 12:15-1:30 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: Mothers-to-be build strength, stamina, comfort and a stronger connection to their baby in this all-levels class. Free class coupons are available through midwives and OB/GYNs. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 10:0511:30 a.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

Community

Jay Peak Sleigh Rides: See February 1. Shelburne Sleigh Rides: See February 1.

2 SUNDAY, P.36

List your class or camp here for only $15 per month! Submit the listing by the 15th at kidsvt.com or to classes@kidsvt.com.

Aikido of Champlain Valley: Martial Arts and Conflict Resolution for Children: The Japanese martial art of Aikido integrates self-defense with a philosophy of nonviolence and compassion. Children’s classes include physical conditioning, bully awareness/prevention and methods to cultivate inner peace. Visitors are always welcome, and children can try a free class. Ages

5-6: Thursdays, 4 p.m.; ages 7-12: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4 p.m., and Saturdays, 9 a.m. Location: Aikido of Champlain Valley, 257 Pine St., Burlington. Info: bpincus@ burlingtonaikido.org, 951-8900, burlington aikido.org.

February Cool Vacation Camps: Kids ages 5 and up are invited to join in the fun at Leddy Park Arena. Camp includes iceskating lessons, crafts, outdoor adventures and more. Campers may choose morning (8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.), afternoon (12:30-5 p.m.) or full-day sessions (8 a.m.-5 p.m.). February 24-28. Location: Leddy Park Arena, 216 Leddy Park Rd., Burlington. Info: 865-7558.

WildThings! Nature Program: Calling all librarians, daycare providers and preschool teachers: Gather up your 3- to 8-year-olds for a 45-minute program focused on teaching children about the wonders of the natural world, led by a certified elementaryeducation teacher. Each month, we’ll explore a di erent nature theme through literature, art and outdoor exploration. Call to book a time; I’ll travel to you! Cost: $75 per visit. Info: wildthingsvt.com, wildthingsvt@ gmail.com, 872-9987.

Winter Classes in Art, French & Academics! Preschoolers learn French, make art and engage in other activities in this FRART class. After-school o erings weave arts, French and nature together in a creative way. See schedules online. Location: wingspan Painting Studio, 4A Howard St., Burlington. Info: Maggie Standley, 2337676, wingspanpaintingstudio.com.

Wintery Mixed Media: Kids have a blizzard of fun giving winter a colorful makeover. Participants transform the white of winter into a rainbow of possibilities as they paint with ice cubes, experiment with shavingcream “snow” paint and decorate a snow sculpture with watercolors. Winter never looked so fabulous! Ages 5-10. Feb. 8, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Cost $25. Location: Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: education@helenday.com, 253-8358, helenday.com.

Art Sled Design Lab: Using design principles, cardboard, foam board, duct tape, paint and other recycled materials, campers transform an everyday sled into a fantastical creature, a futuristic vehicle, a favorite food or something just as wacky. Sketches, research, mock-ups and color design give way to construction, polishing, presenting and testing. Two age sections: 5-7 and 8-12. February 24-28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost: $275/ Helen Day Art Center members; $300/nonmembers. Location: Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: education@ helenday.com, 253-8358, helenday.com.

Creative Ballet This is the perfect activity for young dancers. Creative ballet explores the joy of movement while improving balance, coordination and motor skills. Through play and creative imagery, children learn basic ballet, free dance and musical expression. Dancers are encouraged to tie their hair back and away from their faces and to wear ballet shoes, leotards and tights. Children without dancewear may wear sweatpants or leggings, T-shirts and bare feet. Ages 5-7. Fridays, February 7, 14, 21 and March 7, 14, 21, 3-4 p.m. Cost: $75/child. Location: Downstairs of the United Church on Craftsbury Common. Info: vermontart house.com, 586-2200.

2 SUNDAY

Education

Leave No Trace Awareness Workshop: Families learn how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. Hosted by the Winooski Valley Park District. All ages.

Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-5744.

Fairs & Festivals

Jewish Camp Fair: Parents considering a Jewish camp experience for their kids this summer meet camp representatives and enjoy a bagel brunch.

Ohavi Zedek Synagogue, Burlington, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 864-0218.

Stowe Winter Carnival: See February 1. 9 a.m.9 p.m.

Food

Chocolate-Dipping Demonstration: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public Skating: See February 1. 2:30-4 p.m.

Essex Junction Public Skating: Laced-up lads and lassies skim along a frozen surface. All ages. Essex Skating Facility, Essex Junction, 2-5:30 p.m. $3-4; $4 skate rentals. Info, 878-1394.

Story Times

MONDAY

Barre Children’s Story Hour: Aldrich Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-7550.

Colchester Preschool Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Essex Drop-In Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Milton Infant Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Northfield Children’s Story Time: Brown Public Library, Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 485-4621.

St. Albans Story Hour: St. Albans Free Library, Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Stowe Story Time for 2- to 3-Year-Olds: Stowe Free Library, 10:15-11 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145.

Waitsfield Story Time: Joslin Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 496-4205.

Waterbury Baby & Toddler Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Woodstock Baby Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.

TUESDAY

Alburgh Story Hour: Alburgh Community Education Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 796-6077.

Barre Children’s Story Hour: See Monday.

Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

East Barre Kids Story Hour: East Barre Branch Library, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-5118.

Essex Junction Baby & Toddler Story Time: Brownell Library, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Essex Junction Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Georgia Pajama Story Time: Georgia Public Library, third Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

Grand Isle PJ Story Time: Grand Isle Free Library, first Tuesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Highgate Toddler and Preschool Story Time: Highgate Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Hinesburg Preschool Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: CarpenterCarse Library, first Tuesday of every month, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Essex Open Gym: Energy-filled kids flip, jump and tumble in a state-of-the-art facility. Ages 6 and under. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Essex, 1-2:30 p.m. $8. Info, 655-3300.

Fort Fever Series: Snowshoe Hike: Outdoor enthusiasts join the Fort’s director of horticulture for a hike on the garrison grounds. Participants must bring their own snowshoes. All ages. Fort Ticonderoga, 2 p.m. $10. Info, 518-585-2821.

Lollipop Races: Fasten your bib! Young skiers fly down the Mighty Mite hill. Cochran’s Ski Area, Richmond, 1 p.m. Free with $14 youth lift ticket. Info, 434-2479.

Middlebury Public Skating: Graceful gliders practice their moves on ice. All ages. Memorial Sports Center, Middlebury, 1:45-3:15 p.m. $3-4;

Early-literacy skills get special attention during these read-aloud sessions. Some locations provide additional activities such as music, crafts or foreign-language instruction. Contact the story-time organizer or visit kidsvt.com for details. Schedules generally follow the school calendar; call ahead to confirm.

Milton Preschool Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Montpelier Story Time: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

Richmond Story Time: Richmond Free Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

Sheldon Story Time: Sheldon Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 933-2524.

South Burlington Tiny Tot Story Time: South Burlington Community Library, 9:15 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539.

Williston Reading With Frosty & Friends: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister for a 10-minute time slot. Info, 878-4918.

Williston Story Time With Corey: Buttered Noodles, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

Winooski Preschool Story Time: Winooski Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-6424.

Woodstock Preschool Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.

WEDNESDAY

Berkshire PJ Story Time: Berkshire Elementary School, third Wednesday of every month, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 347-1780.

East Barre Realms of Reading Crafts: East Barre Branch Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 476-5118.

Essex Junction Preschool Story Time: See Tuesday.

Essex Toddler Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Grand Isle Preschool Story Time: Grand Isle Free Library, 10 a.m. Free; newcomers should preregister. Info, 372-4797.

Hardwick Preschool Story Time: Jeudevine Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 472-5948.

Highgate Toddler and Preschool Story Time: See Tuesday. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Jericho Story Hour: Jericho Town Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4686.

Johnson Story Time: Johnson Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 635-7141.

Marshfield Story Time & Playgroup: Jaquith Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Norwich Story Time: Norwich Public Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 649-1184.

Quechee Story Time: Quechee Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 295-1232.

Randolph Morning Story Time: Kimball Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073.

Richford PJ Story Time: Arvin A. Library, Every other Wednesday, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free;

alternates every other Wednesday with Tumble Time. Info, 370-4797.

Richford Story Hour: Arvin A. Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 848-3313.

South Burlington Baby Book Time: South Burlington Community Library, Feb. 5, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539.

South Burlington Story Time: Barnes & Noble, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.

Swanton Story Hour: Swanton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-7656.

Warren Preschool Story & Enrichment Hour: Warren Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 595-2582.

Williamstown Story Time: Ainsworth Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 433-5887.

THURSDAY

Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Monday. Essex Preschool Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 879-0313.

Fairfax PJ Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, first Thursday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Franklin Story Hour: Haston Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6678.

Northfield Children’s Story Time: See Monday.

Rutland Story Time: Rutland Free Library, 1010:45 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Shelburne Story Time With Mary Catherine Jones: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

St. Albans Story Hour: See Monday.

Vergennes Story Time: Bixby Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 877-2211.

Westford Story Time: Westford Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-5639.

FRIDAY

Brandon Preschool Story Time: Brandon Free Public Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 247-8230.

Essex Junction Drop-In Story Time: Brownell Library, Feb. 14, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Essex Musical Story Time: Essex Free Library, third Friday of every month, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Enosburg Story Hour: Enosburg Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797.

Georgia Preschool Story Time: Georgia Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

Huntington Story Time: Huntington Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 434-4583.

Lincoln Toddler/Preschool Story Time: Lincoln Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.

free for children 4 and under; $4 skate rental. Info, 388-1238.

Montpelier Public Skating: Blade runners do figure eights around the rink. All ages. Central Vermont Memorial Civic Center, Montpelier, 4-5:15 p.m. $3-4; $12 per family of four; $5 skate rentals. Info, 229-5900.

St. Albans Public Skating: Families gather to glide around the rink. Helmets suggested. Rentals not available. All ages. Collins-Perley Sports Complex, St. Albans, 12:15-1:45 p.m. $3-5. Info, 524-1500.

Lyndon Center Public Skating: See February 1. 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Rutland Public Skating: See February 1. 2-4:30 p.m.

Milton Toddler Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Montpelier Story Time: See Tuesday.

Moretown Story Time: Moretown Memorial Library, 11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 496-9728.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: Brownell Library, Feb. 7, 10-10:45 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

South Burlington Pajamarama: Barnes & Noble, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.

St. Johnsbury Story Time: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, first Saturday of every month, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

Stowe Baby & Toddler Story Time: Stowe Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145.

Waterbury Preschool Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

SATURDAY

Barre Story Time: Next Chapter Bookstore, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-3114.

Burlington Story Time at Phoenix Books: Phoenix Books, 11 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 448-3350.

Colchester Saturday Drop-In Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

South Burlington Story Time: See Wednesday. St. Johnsbury Story Time: See Friday. Winooski Story Hour: Winooski Memorial Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 655-6424.

SUNDAY

Sunday Stories: Ohavi Zedek Synagogue, Feb. 16, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 864-0218.

Williston Russian Story Time: Buttered Noodles, 11-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 730-2673.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 1-2:30 p.m.

YoGirls Yoga class: Fierce females acquire self-confidence, emotional stability and a positive body image through yoga poses, mindfulness activities, games and crafts. Ages 7-11. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 2:30-3:30 p.m. $15; preregister. Info, 864-9642.

Nature & science

See Dr. first videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Nature Hike: Naturalist Larry Clarfeld leads a walk in the wilds of Winooski to look for winter birds and animal tracks. Snowshoes available to borrow. Parking at the Winooski Public Works lot. All ages. Gilbrook Natural Area, Winooski, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 863-5744.

Night sky: See February 1. 3:30-4 p.m.

Planetarium Presentation: See February 1. straw Rockets: Imaginative inventors use air power to make space contraptions fly. All ages.

Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Turtle discovery: Young explorers get up close and personal with shelled reptiles, feeding them and learning about their habitat. All ages.

Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Winter Trees & Birds of Red Rocks: Lovers of oak, maple, birch and beech learn about the buds, bark and branches of these species while looking for feathered flyers. All ages. Red Rocks Park, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $10-15; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

3 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: Pregnant mamas focus on movements that will ready their bodies for the next phase of life. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7 p.m. $15. Info, 778-0300.

Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: Moms-to-be learn breathing techniques and different positions to prepare their bodies for birth. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 5:30-7 p.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

Food chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

my child & me cooking class: crackers & spreads: Parents and little ones mix, measure and cook nourishing, organic food. Ages 5 and under with a parent. City Market, Burlington, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $5-10 per parent-child pair; free for WIC families; preregister. Info, 861-9700.

Games

Lego club: Builders fashion architecturally sound constructions. Ages 7-12. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon itty Bitty Public skating: Tiny feet learn the art of sliding on ice through fun and games. Ages 5 and under. Leddy Park, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. $8 per family; $1 skate rentals. Info, 865-7558. Kids Yoga: Playful breathing, stretching and relaxation techniques build mindfulness and body awareness. Ages 6-12. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

submit your march events for print by February 15 at kidsvt. com or calendar@kidsvt.com.

Little Yogis: Music, games and creative movement encourage the bitty set to play and learn. Ages 18 months-3 years with a caregiver. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 9-10 a.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

Preschool Yoga: Preschool posers develop their practice away from caregivers with music, storytelling and creative movement. Ages 3-5.

2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $14. Info, 870-0361. shelburne open Gym: See February 1. 9 a.m., noon, 2 & 5 p.m.

stowe Public skating: Sharp-footed youth whirl and twirl to their heart’s delight. All ages. Stowe Arena, 12:30-2 p.m. $5; $5 skate rental; $2 helmet rental. Info, 253-2264.

Library & Books

chess club: Game players strategize and make moves in this brain-building game. No experience necessary. All ages. Lincoln Library, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.

Write Now!: Authors-to-be get inspired to start penning a book or poem. Grades 6-12. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Young Adult Advisory Board: Sixth through 12th graders help make the library a destination for their peers. Ages 12-18. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

music

Kids music with Raphael: Local favorite Raphael Groton plays tunes to make the wee ones dance and giggle. All ages. The Skinny Pancake Burlington, 11 a.m. $5 suggested donation. Info, 540-0188.

music for Preschoolers: Lively tunes with Peter Alsen or Derek Burkins strike the right note among the wee crowd. Ages 5 and under with a caregiver. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:45 a.m. Free; limited to one session per week per family. Info, 878-4918. shake Your sillies out: Tots swing and sway to music with children’s entertainer Derek Burkins. Center Court. University Mall, South Burlington, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-1066.

Nature & science

Books & Beyond: science for Preschoolers: Children’s literature and hands-on activities combine for fun science learning and exploration. Ages 3-5 with a parent or caregiver. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:1511 & 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Theater

‘The Addams Family’: Fright-loving families are treated to the National Broadway tour of this kooky, spooky musical comedy. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 7 p.m. $49.50-59.50. Info, 775-0903.

4 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: Artists engage their imaginations with recycled crafts. All ages, but kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See February 2. 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See February 2. 4-5:30 p.m.

Dr. Thomas Bolduc, a native of Portland, Maine, met his wife at the University of Vermont College of Medicine. They spent ten years sharing a pediatric practice in Walla Walla, Washington. In 2013, after 14 years away, they decided it was time to come “home” to Vermont with their two sons. Dr. Bolduc enjoys hiking, snowshoeing, flat-water kayaking, cooking and time in his hammock.

The providers at Central Vermont Women’s Health know that every step on your path to childbirth is an important one.

We offer personalized attention and support from the early stages of family planning through the time you are at home with your newborn. We want you to have the birth experience you desire. We offer natural birthing options in addition to everything you’d expect from a modern, well-equipped hospital like Central Vermont Medical Center. And although you or your baby may never need specialized care you can take comfort in knowing that the board-certified obstetricians at CVWH are always just a phone call away and offer the security of comprehensive care. There is nothing more important to us than your health and the health of your baby.

Please call 371.5961 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you to talk about your growing family.

from left: Colleen Horan,

FACOG; Sheila Glaess, MD, FACOG; Julie Vogel, MD, FACOG; Roger Ehret, MD, FACOG; Rebecca Montgomery, CNM, MSN; Roger Knowlton, DO, FACOG.

Pregnancy is so much more than just your due date.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: Yoga postures, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques nurture bodies and create a loving connection between moms-to-be and their babies. Women at all stages of pregnancy are welcome. Yoga Roots, Shelburne, 5:45-7:15 p.m. $15; first class free. Info, 985-0090.

Education

Homeschool Program: Artifact enthusiasts use clues from the past to uncover history like archaeologists. Ages 8 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Kids in the Kitchen: Breakfast Bread secrets: Barb from the Healthy Living Bake Shop helps young chefs whip up muffins and scones, personalizing them with myriad mix-ins before baking them to golden perfection. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per adult/child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 6-7:15 p.m.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

Family-Friendly Yoga: Parents drop off their 3- to 5-year-olds across the hall at Studio V for an art class, then get their Zen on with some mediation and movement. Infants can be present during yoga class. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 9-10:30 a.m. $14; $25 for adult yoga class and child’s art class; $30 for yoga class and art class for two children. Info, 870-0361. middlebury Public skating: See February 2. 9-10:30 a.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon & 2 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: Young gymnasts bounce, bend and balance. Ages 9 months to 6 years, accompanied by an adult. Green Mountain Gymnastics, Williston, 9:30-11 a.m. $10 per child; $15 per family. Info, 652-2454.

Library & Books

Williston story Time & crafts: Young explorers develop literacy skills and engage in artistic exploration. Ages 3-5. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

music

children’s sing-Along With Lesley Grant: Parents sip coffee while wee ones break into song with a local musician and educator. Preschool-age kids and younger. The Bees Knees, Morrisville, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 888-7889.

Nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: shadows: Preschoolers learn what makes a shadow and why a groundhog searches for it. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $9.50-12.50; free for members and children under 2. Info, 864-1848.

5 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Needlefelt an owl: Textile artists create adorable feathered friends in this beginner level class. Ages 7-14. Milton Town Office Community Room, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 893-4922.

Baby & maternity

infant massage class: Moms of babies ages 18 months and younger learn techniques to soothe their little ones with a certified infant-massage therapist. Birth Journeys, Burlington, 10:15-11:15 a.m. $5-15; preregister. Info, 373-3236.

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: Brand-new mamas and their babies relax, stretch and bond. For moms with babies one year and under. Emerge Yoga, Montpelier, 10-11 a.m. $12. Info, 778-0300.

shelburne Postnatal/Baby & me Yoga: Wee ones from 6 weeks to pre-crawling join their moms for this class that focuses on gentle poses to help strengthen and energize the body and mind. Yoga Roots, Shelburne, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15. Info, 985-0090.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

cookie decorating: Budding bakers doll up treats with sprinkles, frosting, sugar and nuts. Barrio Bakery, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-8278.

Health & Fitness

Adventures to Fitness: Kids work up a sweat following along with this engaging exercise program on the library’s SMARTboard. Ages 5-10. South Burlington Community Library, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

EvoKids Afterschool Yoga: Parents can attend a by-donation community yoga class one room over from this workout for kids. Grades K and up. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $15; $20 for two children. Info, 864-9642.

Kids Yoga: See February 3.

Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1. 2:45-4:15 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon & 2 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4.

Vergennes Kids Yoga: Flexible yogis stretch out, play, meditate and rejuvenate. Grades K-3. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 3:15-4:15 p.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: Parents and their wee ones practice their gliding technique. Ages 5 and under. Strollers welcome. See unionarena.org for additional public skating times. Union Arena, Woodstock, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $2-6; free for children 4 and under; $5 skate rental. Info, 457-2500.

Library & Books

Books for Homeschoolers: In separate groups, kids in grades K through 3 and 4 through 8 participate in activities related to award-winning reads. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

dorothy canfield Fisher Book discussion: Shana Burg’s Laugh at the Moon is at the center of a spirited conversation between 8 to 11-yearolds. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

music

moving & Grooving With christine: Tots let loose to the rhythms of rock-and-roll and world music. Recommended for ages 2-5, but all are

welcome. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1111:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Preschool music With derek: Kids tap their toes in time to a fun, tune-filled gathering. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate: Small scallywags “ooh” and “aargh!” during swashbuckling songs, movements and guessing games. Ages 7 and under, with their parents. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

6 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: Multimedia projects involving play dough, paint and paper introduce young kids to artistic expression. Ages 6 months-5 years, accompanied by an adult. BCA Center, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $6. Info, 865-7166.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See February 2. 5:45-7:15 p.m.

Essex La Leche League: Moms bring their little ones to a discussion of parenting and breastfeeding. Pregnant and planning moms are also welcome. First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 383-8544. shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See February 4. 8:4510 a.m.

Food chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Sesame’s Sweet

in 1970, soon after “Sesame Street” premiered, time magazine featured big bird on its cover and declared, “it is not only the best children’s show in tV history, it is one of the best parents’ shows as well.” four decades later, the fuzzy puppets still delight both kids and adults. its newest touring show, “‘sEsAmE sTREET’ LiVE: ELmo mAKEs music,” follows the colorful cast of characters on their quest to recover missing instruments, teaching kids that everyone can make and enjoy music. that’s a lesson even oscar the Grouch can get behind.

“‘sEsAmE sTREET’ LiVE: ELmo mAKEs music”: Tuesday, February 25, 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Flynn MainStage in Burlington. All ages. $19.76-52.46; free for babies under 1. Info, 863-5966. flynntix.org

Games

Lego Fun: Budding builders share blocks. Grades K and up; kids under 5 are welcome to participate with adult supervision. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

itty Bitty Public skating: See February 3. shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon & 2 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Library & Books

Food for Thought Teen Group: Young adults chow down on pizza as they discuss the library’s special events and book and DVD selection. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

music

Giggles & Tickles dance Party: Movers and groovers shimmy the winter blues away. Ages 4 and under. South Burlington Community Library, 9-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080. music for Preschoolers: See February 3. 10:30 a.m.

music With mr. chris: Singer and storyteller Chris Dorman leads kids in music and dance. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

Nature & science

Tricky Tracks: Preschoolers and their parents learn about the comings and goings of furry friends as they explore the outdoors in search of fresh footprints. Ages 3 to 5. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

7 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Essex Junction crafternoons: Students in grade 4 through 8 bring their creativity to the library for a fun art-making session. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Family Wheel drop-in: Parents and kids make bowls, cups and sculptures from clay. All ages. BCA Print & Clay Studio, Burlington, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $6 includes one fired and glazed piece per participant; additional pieces are $5 each. Info, 865-7166.

Kinder Arts: Preschoolers get their hands dirty while exploring mixed media, painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking and more during creative hands-on sessions. Ages 3-5. River Arts, Morrisville, 10:30 a.m.-noon, $12 per child; $8 for the second child;. Info, 888-1261.

Baby & maternity

Postnatal core Yoga: Get your abs on! New moms learn to reengage core muscles lost during pregnancy in this flowing yoga class for all levels. Pre-crawling babies are welcome. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 1:30 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

community

spa Night out: Kids who love to be pampered get fancy with manicures, pedicures, jewelry making and hairstyling. Pizza dinner provided. Ages 5-12. Essex Elementary School, 6-8 p.m. $8; preregister. Info, 862-9622.

Valentine Night out: Friends get together for a night of card making and games. Dinner provided. Ages 5-12. Richmond Elementary School, 6-8 p.m. $8; preregister. Info, 862-9622.

Winter Lights Kick off: Church Street gets its glow on with new illuminated installations, including a flying carpet, colorful spheres and projected snowflakes. All ages. Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, 5-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7596.

Education

Early Bird math: Young children and their caregivers put two and two together using interactive books, songs and games to explore arithmetic concepts. Richmond Free Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

Fairs & Festivals

See Dr. first videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

milton Winter Festival: This community celebration includes snow sculptures, moonlight laser tag, a bonfire, sledding, sleigh rides, a chili cook-off and more. All ages. Various locations, Milton, 6:30-8 p.m. Prices vary by event. Info, 893-4922.

Food chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Games

dungeons & dragons: Players exercise their problem-solving skills in imaginary battles and adventures. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 7:15-8:30 p.m.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon Game Night out: Kids enjoy playing and creating board games over a grilled cheese and soup supper. Ages 5-12. Thatcher Brook Primary School, Waterbury, 6-8 p.m. $8 per child; preregister. Info, 862-9622.

marshfield open Gym: Elementary-age kids burn off steam after school with ball games and activities. Children must be supervised by parents or caregivers. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

middlebury Public skating: See February 2. Noon-1 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4.

Toddler Yoga & stories: Flexible friends strike simple poses and listen to books. Ages 1-5. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: See February 5.

music

Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: Toe-tapping good tunes captivate kiddies. Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 660-9346. music With derek: The wee crowd convenes to shake out their sillies with tune-filled activities. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

music With Robert: Families sing along with a local legend. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Nature & science

Night sky: See February 1.

8 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

craft school saturday drop-in: See February 1.

Kids camera club: Snap-happy kids learn how to build an old-school camera, capture an image and develop their film in the darkroom. Ages 8 and up. ArtisTree Community Arts Center, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-noon. $20; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Kids craft: Puppy Love card: Thoughtful crafters create a canine-themed card for that special someone using paper hearts. Ages 3 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 2-4 p.m. $1. Info, 862-0646.

Kids craft: some ‘Buggy’ Loves

You Tote: Thoughtful young artists create a handmade Valentine’s gift. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

snow dough day: Young sculptors unleash their creativity with shimmery, sparkly, scented play dough. All ages. South Burlington Community Library, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Webby’s Art studio: Twirl & curl: Paper crafters learn quilling techniques to beautify Valentine’s Day cards. Ages 5 and up. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular winter museum admission, $3-10; free for children under 5 and members. Info, 985-3346.

Wintery mixed media: Vibrant artists add some pizazz to winter, painting with ice cubes and shaving cream and decorating a snow sculpture with watercolors. Ages 5-10. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $25; preregister. Info, 253-8358.

community

Jay Peak sleigh Rides: See February 1. shelburne sleigh Rides: See February 1.

Waffle Breakfast: Clifford the Big Red Dog makes an appearance at this hearty repast featuring activities for kids and a silent auction. Proceeds benefit Hinesburg Nursery School. All ages. Hinesburg Community School, 8-11 a.m. $4-6; free for children under 2. Info, 482-3827.

dance

dance showcase: A bevy of graceful groups — including Spielpalast Cabaret, Jeh Kulu Jr. and Queen City Tango — strut their stuff in a performance titled “Stepping Out: Unleashing Power & Grace.” Black Box, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7 p.m. $2023; proceeds benefit Puppets in Education. Info, 860-3349.

Education

montessori school open House: Interested parents learn more about an educational program that fosters self and social responsibility in children ages 3-12. Montessori School of Central Vermont, Berlin, 9-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 223-3320.

Fairs & Festivals

Burlington Winter Weekend: Ice carvings, mini ice golf and snowshoeing demos are part of this seasonal celebration on Burlington’s pedestrianonly street. All ages. Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, noon-4 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7596. Great ice in Grand isle: Ice skating, dogsled rides, a roaring bonfire, a chili cook-off and the F-F-Frozen Chosen Regatta make the snow-covered landscape a little more fun. Visit champlainislands.com for schedule. All ages. All events are weather dependent. Various locations, Grand Isle, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Various prices; most events are free. Info, 372-8400. milton Winter Festival: See February 7. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Penguin Plunge: Stouthearted swimmers in creative costumes dunk themselves in Lake Champlain to raise funds for Special Olympics Vermont. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m.; plunge at 11 a.m. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free to watch. Info, 863-5222, ext. 105.

Food

Bake & shake: Dairy devotees make their own bread and butter to eat, then explore other fun things to make with flour. Shelburne Farms, 9:30-11:30 a.m. & 12:30-2:30 p.m. $10-12 per adult-child pair; $5-6 per each additional child; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

capital city Winter Farmers market: Root veggies, honey, maple syrup and more change hands at an off-season celebration of locally grown food held in the gymnasium. All ages. Vermont College of Fine Arts, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 223-2958.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Norwich Winter Farmers market: Farmers offer produce, meats and maple syrup, which complement baked goods and handcrafted items from local artists. All ages. Tracy Hall, Norwich, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 384-7447.

Rutland Winter Farmers market: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1.

EvoKids saturday Yoga: See February 1.

Hogwart’s Night out: Little wizards create Harry Potter-inspired wands, potions and spells. Ages 2-12. Separate activities for children ages 4 and under and 5 and up. Greater Burlington YMCA, 5:30-8 p.m. $10-19; preregister. Info, 862-9622.

Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1. shelburne Kids Yoga: Kundalini asanas, storytelling, mindfulness exercises and harp music come together in this relaxing class. Ages 7-12. Yoga Roots, Shelburne, 1:30-2:30 p.m. $5 introductory price; preregister. Info, 985-0090. shelburne open Gym: See February 1. south Burlington Public skating: See February 1.

stowe Public skating: See February 3. 12:15-2 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

UsAsA Rail Jam Featuring the Lil’ Rascals: Little shredders ages 9 and under get pointers from coaches before sliding, grinding and jibbing on the mountain. Then older kids and teens compete. Jay Peak Resort, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $15-25; preregister. Info, 327-2154.

Library & Books

‘Ladybug Girl’ story Time & Activities: The popular picture book series featuring a relatable young female superhero is the focus during a morning of activities and reading. All ages. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

minute To Win it!: Fast-moving youngsters compete in 60-second challenges to win treasure chest prizes. All ages. South Burlington Community Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

movies

Family movie matinee: Cozy kids toting blankets and pillows munch on popcorn and watch a VeggieTales flick. All ages. Highgate Public Library, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Nature & science

creeping colors: Small scientists watch capillary action as water rises up their paper strips and separates out marker dyes. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. EcHo story Explorers: shadows: See February 4.

my sky: See February 1.

Night owls & Winter Fires: Bundled-up adventurers explore the Audubon by moonlight, listening for owls and searching for animal tracks. Families with children 5 and up. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 7-8:30 p.m. $10-12 per adult-child pair; $4-5 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

Night sky: See February 1.

Planetarium Presentation: See February 1. Rocks & Volcanoes: Fledgling geologists learn about lava-spewing mountains. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Theater

saturday drama club: See February 1.

Super Domes

The northeast doesn’t get the wind-packed snow that’s ideal for creating snow structures, but that won’t stop the Montshire Museum from hosting its annual iGLoo BUiLd. dr. bert yankielun, author of How to Build an Igloo and Other Snow Structures, leads the intro to icy architecture — as he has for each of the last 25 years. To get the blocks just right, staff shovel snow into large rectangles, stomp on it with snowshoes, then let the slabs sit overnight in below-freezing temperatures. On the day of the event, participants grab saws and shovels, which they use to cut building blocks from the snow quarry. “everyone who is there, I’m hoping, will participate,” yankielun says. “It’s a family, cooperative event.”

iGLoo BUiLd: Saturday, February 15, 10:30 a.m. at the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. All ages. Info, 649-2200. montshire.org

9 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See February 2.

community

Jay Peak sleigh Rides: See February 1.

shelburne sleigh Rides: See February 1.

UVm Babysitter mixer: Kids and parents meet and greet college students interested in providing childcare. UVM Davis Student Center, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 656-9405.

Fairs & Festivals

Great ice in Grand isle: See February 8. 8 a.m.3:30 p.m.

milton Winter Festival: See February 7. 12:302:30 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 2:30-4 p.m.

Essex Junction Public skating: See February 2.

Essex open Gym: See February 2.

Lollipop Races: See February 2. middlebury Public skating: See February 2. montpelier Public skating: See February 2.

Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1. 12:30-2:30 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 1-2:30 p.m.

YoGirls Yoga class: See February 2.

Nature & science

Build a Better Battery: A lab-coat investigation allows small scientists to make and measure electric energy. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Hoopster Gliders: Creativity soars as kids craft a flying contraption. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Planetarium Presentation: See February 1.

Parenting

Body care Products for mamas & Babies: City Market’s Herbal Education Coordinator teaches mothers how to make all-natural belly balm, baby powder, diaper cream and baby wipes. City Market, Burlington, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9757.

10 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See February 3.

Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See February 3.

Food

chinese New Year dumplings: Fledgling chefs usher in the Year of the Horse by stuffing wrappers with traditional pork and spinach fillings, then eating them together. McClure Multigenerational Center, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9757. chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon itty Bitty Public skating: See February 3.

Kids Yoga: See February 3.

Little Yogis: See February 3.

Preschool Yoga: See February 3.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. 9 a.m., noon, 2 & 5 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Library & Books

chess club: See February 3.

Pajama story Time With Abby Klein: Flannelclad kiddos bring their favorite stuffed animals for tales, crafts and a bedtime snack. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

movies

Young Adult Film crew: Wannabe actors, directors and audiovisual buffs put together a program for Lake Champlain Access Television. Ages 1218. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

music

Kids music with Raphael: See February 3. music for Preschoolers: See February 3. shake Your sillies out: See February 3.

11 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: See February 4.

Teen Art studio: Graphic designer Trisha Fong inspires adolescents to create unique masterpieces. Ages 11 to 18. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 253-8358.

Baby & maternity

Burlington La Leche League: New moms bring their questions to a breast-feeding support group. Babies and older children welcome. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Free. Info, 879-3000.

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See February 2. 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See February 2. 4-5:30 p.m.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See February 4.

Education

Picky Eaters Parent Program: Dietician Brigitte Harton gives moms and dads tips for avoiding food battles with their kids and suggests appropriate meal plans. South Burlington Community Library, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 6-7:15 p.m.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

Family-Friendly Yoga: See February 4. middlebury Public skating: See February 2. 9-10:30 a.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon & 2 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3. Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4.

Library & Books

PJ story with ms. Virginia: Love You Forever by Robert Munsch is the read-aloud selection for this jammies session. All ages. Highgate Public

submit your march events for print by February 15 at kidsvt.com or calendar@kidsvt.com.

Library, Highgate Center, 6 p.m. Free; RSVP. Info, 868-3970.

Williston story Time & crafts: See February 4.

music

children’s sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See February 4.

Nature & science

See Dr. first videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

EcHo story Explorers: owling: Budding scientists learn what adaptations make this nocturnal bird an excellent hunter. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $9.50-12.50; free for members and children under 2. Info, 864-1848.

12 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

After-school craft club: Amateur artists end the day with a creative project. Grades 3-5. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

card-making Party: Crafty kids create paper tokens of affection in celebration of Valentine’s Day. Ages 5 and up. Norwich Public Library, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1184.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See February 5. shelburne Postnatal/Baby & me Yoga: See February 5.

Education

History for Homeschoolers: Reading, writing and hands-on activities hosted by the Vermont Historical Society offer a new perspective on the past. Ages 6-12. Vermont History Center, Barre, 1-3 p.m. $4-5; free for parents and nonparticipating children; preregister. Info, 828-1314. school open House: Prospective parents tour the facilities and meet the dedicated teachers

Ongoing Exhibits

EcHo LAKE AQuARium

ANd sciENcE cENTER

Info, 864-1848

‘Alice’s Wonderland’: This traveling exhibit encourages curious minds to go down the rabbit hole to explore math and science topics inspired by the classic Lewis Carroll tale. Ages 3 to 8.

moNTsHiRE musEum oF sciENcE

Info, 649-2200

‘sustainable shelter: dwelling with the Forces of Nature’: Through graphics, cartoons, interactive computer games and more, this new exhibition explores biodiversity, human and animal architecture, energy and water conservation and ecosystems — all from the perspective of the home.

FAiRBANKs musEum & PLANETARium, sT. joHNsBuRY

Info, 748-2372

‘Wildflower Table’: This living exhibit reflects the abundance and diversity of flowers, grasses, berries, ferns and evergreens found in the Northeast Kingdom. Kids are introduced to more than 400 species displayed throughout the year, in both fruit and flowering stages.

behind the school’s innovative educational program for children ages 5-14. River Rock School, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4700.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1. cookie decorating: See February 5.

Games

Family Game Night: Players sit down for friendly competitions of Candy Land, checkers and Monopoly. Visitors are welcome to bring their own games. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, 6:307:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

Health & Fitness

Adventures to Fitness: See February 5.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

EvoKids Afterschool Yoga: See February 5.

Kids Yoga: See February 3.

Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1.

2:45-4:15 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon & 2 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4.

Vergennes Kids Yoga: See February 5.

Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: See February 5.

Library & Books

Little Explorer Program: Preschoolers discover their community through hands-on exploration of nature topics including farming, sugaring and gardening. Ages 3-5. Highgate Public Library, 11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970. middle school Planners & Helpers: Students play games and plot cool projects for the library over snacks. Grades 6-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

music

Preschool music With derek: See February 5. Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate: See February 5.

13 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: See February 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See February 2. 5:45-7:15 p.m.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See February 4. 8:4510 a.m.

Education

History for Homeschoolers: See February 12.

Parent open House: Prospective parents learn about the holistic approach at this independent school for children ages 3-12. The Bellwether School, Williston, 6 p.m. Free; parents only. Info, 863-4839.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Kids in the Kitchen: New England Whoopie Pies: Dessert chefs-in-training put together an easy, delicious and all-natural version of this classic fluff-filled, cookie-cake sandwich, made entirely from scratch. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per adult-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

13 THuRsdAY, p.42

Games

Library Legos: Building-block lovers keep busy with the library’s giant collection. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See February 2.

11 a.m.-noon

See Dr. first videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

itty Bitty Public skating: See February 3.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon & 2 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

music

music for Preschoolers: See February 3. 10:30 a.m.

music With mr. chris: See February 6.

14 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Essex Junction crafternoons: See February 7.

Family Wheel drop-in: See February 7.

Kinder Arts: See February 7.

Baby & maternity

Postnatal core Yoga: See February 7.

community

Full moon sleigh Rides: Pat Palmer of Thornapple Farm and a team of Percheron draft horses lead a celestial ride under the winter sky. Weather permitting. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 5:30, 6:05 & 6:40 p.m. $8-10; free for children under 3; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

milton High school coffee House: Students and teachers showcase their musical, artistic and literary talents before an open mic. All ages. Milton High School, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-3230.

Education

Early Bird math: See February 7.

Homeschool Project day: Out-of-classroom

Fledgling Farmers

the next generation of food and agriculture enthusiasts convenes for the NoRTHEAsT oRGANic FARmiNG AssociATioN oF VERmoNT’s cHiLdREN’s coNFERENcE. While adults attend workshops on soil, poultry, caterpillars and swine, kids are treated to classes in tai chi, animal tracking, wool spinning and drying fruit. Singing sessions with bread and butter farm’s Chris Dorman and card making with local artist bonnie acker provide further opportunities for fun ’til the cows come home.

NoFA-VERmoNT’s cHiLdREN’s coNFERENcE: Saturday and Sunday, February 15-16, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the UVM Davis Center in Burlington. $20 per day if you register before February 4; $30 per day for walk-ins; additional $10 for children’s lunch. Ages 6-12. Info, 434-4122. nofavt.org

learners share their current projects with an audience of parents and siblings. Grades K-12. Milton Public Library, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Games

magic: The Gathering: Planeswalkers seek knowledge and glory in this trading-card game. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 7:15-8:30 p.m.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

marshfield open Gym: See February 7. middlebury Public skating: See February 2. Noon-1 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4. Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: See February 5.

Library & Books

Williston Toddler Time: Wild Animals: Little tykes bring a favorite stuffed animal to this early literacy program that includes rhymes, crafts and playtime. Ages 1-3. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

movies

Family movie: ‘despicable me 2’: Super dad Gru tracks down a criminal mastermind in this animated flick that appeals to kids and parents alike. Popcorn and soda provided. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:10 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

music

Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See February 7.

music With derek: See February 7. music With Robert: See February 7.

Nature & science

Full moon snowshoe Hike: Hot chocolate fuels walkers for a sparkling stroll under lunar light. Snowshoes provided. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 7-8:30 p.m. $5-10; preregistration recommended. Info, 229-6206.

Night sky: See February 1.

15 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

Art With Jennie: This crafty drop-in session inspires mini-makers with a variety of materials and themes. All ages. ArtisTree Community Arts Center, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-noon. $20 per parentchild pair; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

craft school saturday drop-in: See February 1. Free Wheelin’: Potters-in-training learn how to make cups, bowls and more. Price includes one fired and glazed piece. Ages 6 to 12. BCA Print & Clay Studio, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166.

Kids craft: Personalized Block: Artisans-intraining monogram wood to create unique room decorations. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

community

Family Fun at Fairbanks museum: Kids of all ages drop into the museum for science and craft activities. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 10 a.m.-noon. $5 per family; free for museum members. Info, 748-2372.

Jay Peak sleigh Rides: See February 1. shelburne sleigh Rides: See February 1. sleigh Ride Week: Winter lovers are pulled by horses through frozen farm fields and try out a jack jumper sled, a single ski with a seat mounted on top. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Regular museum admission, $4-14; free for kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Education

Living History Weekend: Revolutionary War buffs travel back to 1759 to watch American soldiers ready the fort for winter, do carpentry and

cook as part of this reenactment. All ages. Fort Ticonderoga, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $10; free for children under 5. Info, 518-585-2821.

NoFA Vermont children’s conference: The next generation of growers attend a day’s worth of food and agriculture-related workshops. Ages 6-12. (See calendar spotlight.) UVM Davis Student Center, Burlington, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $20 per day before February 4; $30 walk-in rate; $10 for children’s lunch; preregistration recommended. Info, 434-3821.

Food

Burlington Winter Farmers market: See February 1.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Rutland Winter Farmers market: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. EvoKids saturday Yoga: See February 1. Parents Night out: Adults looking for some alone time drop off their young yogis for dancing, game playing, pizza eating and relaxation activities. Ages 4-11. Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga, Burlington, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $25 for one child; $30 for two children in the same family; preregister. Info, 864-9643.

Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1. shelburne Kids Yoga: See February 8. shelburne open Gym: See February 1. south Burlington Public skating: See February 1.

Library & Books

cleo the Therapy dog: See February 1. ‘Fancy Nancy’ Tea Party: Games, crafts and a lovely warm drink await elegantly-dressed little ladies. Ages 4-7. Milton Public Library, 1:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

movies

smArt series: i Heart Art: Love is in the air as museum visitors sample tasty treats and make jewelry. Ages 3 and up. Shelburne Museum, 1-4 p.m. Regular winter museum admission, $3-10; free for children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

13 THuRsdAY (ContinueD)

music

A collaborative children’s concert: Music makers Gigi and Joni and Mister Chris and Friends provide snappy tunes for kids of all ages. Finger food potluck after the show. Proceeds benefit the Nari Penson Scholarship Fund at the Schoolhouse. The Schoolhouse Learning Center, South Burlington, 10 a.m. $5 per child; free for adults. Info, 497-7217.

Nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: owling: See February 11.

Forester for a day: Kids don hard hats as they observe a woodsman fell a tree, then take to the woodshop for hands-on fun. Ages 5 and up. Shelburne Farms, 9:30-11:30 a.m. & 12:30-2:30 p.m. $10-12 per adult-child pair; $5-6 per each additional child; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

The Great Backyard Bird count monitoring

Walk: Aspiring naturalists count feathered friends during a morning hike through the woods. All ages. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 8-10 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3068.

Great Backyard Bird count open House: Ornithologists-in-training visit the museum’s feeding station, explore exhibits and learn more about the bird count, an annual four-day event. All ages. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular museum admission; $3-6. Info, 434-2167.

igloo Build: Bundled-up families learn to construct insulated, sturdy snow dwellings during this long-running Montshire tradition. All ages. (See calendar spotlight on page 40.) Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. my sky: See February 1. Night sky: See February 1.

Planetarium Presentation: See February 1.

Theater

‘Borders of the mind’: Mentalist Joshua Kane uses his psychic powers to read audience members’ minds in this participatory show. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7 p.m. $3846; $136 per family four-pack. Info, 760-4634. saturday drama club: See February 1.

16 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See February 2.

community

community Arts day & silent Auction: Parents enjoy local music and bid on goods, classes and local services while kids in kindergarten through fifth grade take part in workshops with the Flynn Center, Very Merry Theatre and more. Proceeds go toward enrichment activities for IAA students. Integrated Arts Academy at H.O. Wheeler, Burlington, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 05401tm@gmail.com.

Jay Peak sleigh Rides: See February 1.

shelburne sleigh Rides: See February 1.

sleigh Ride Week: See February 15.

Education

Living History Weekend: See February 15. NoFA Vermont children’s conference: See February 15.

Fairs & Festivals

Wintervale: Outdoor activities, local food and hot chocolate — plus 3 miles of groomed crosscountry ski trails weather permitting — await nature-loving Vermonters in Burlington’s backyard. All ages. Burlington’s Intervale, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 660-0440.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 2:30-4 p.m.

Essex Junction Public skating: See February 2. Essex open Gym: See February 2. Lollipop Races: See February 2.

st. Albans Public skating: See February 2. Feb. 23, 12:15-1:45 p.m.

Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1. 12:30-2:30 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 1-2:30 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3. 12:452:30 p.m.

YoGirls Yoga class: See February 2.

Nature & science

microscopic investigations: See February 1. mirror, mirror: Little ones use looking glasses to investigate reflection and symmetry. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m.

Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. montpelier Great Backyard Bird count: Citizen scientists engage in a nationwide birdmonitoring project. All ages. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 229-6206.

Planetarium Presentation: See February 1.

17 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See February 3.

Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See February 3.

community

sleigh Ride Week: See February 15.

Food chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Kids cooking class: mexican Fiesta: Budding chefs whip up healthy versions of South-ofthe-border specialties including nachos and guacamole. Ages 6-12, accompanied by an adult. McClure Multigenerational Center, Burlington, 5:30-7 p.m. $5-10; free for mentor pairs; preregister. Info, 861-9757.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

itty Bitty Public skating: See February 3.

Kids Yoga: See February 3.

Little Yogis: See February 3.

Preschool Yoga: See February 3. st. Albans Public skating: See February 2. 12:15-1:45 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. 9 a.m., noon, 2 & 5 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Library & Books

chess club: See February 3.

music

Kids music with Raphael: See February 3. music for Preschoolers: See February 3. shake Your sillies out: See February 3.

17 moNdAY (continued)

Nature & science

Exploring magnets: Budding scientists experiment with invisible pull. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Paper-cup Telephones: Talkers and listeners discover whether sound can really travel through a string. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Tinkering Lab: open studio for makers: Budding builders chose from three kits, then use tools and other supplies to make exciting creations. Children under 9 must have a parent or caregiver present. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2; $5 additional per building kit. Info, 649-2200.

18 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: See February 4.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See February 2. 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See February 2. 4-5:30 p.m.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See February 4.

community

sleigh Ride Week: See February 15.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Kids in the Kitchen: spring Rolls & Fried Rice: This Asian-themed cooking class walks young chefs through two simple and delicious veggiepacked recipes. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per parent-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

A mosaic of Flavor: congolese Plantains & Pork: Gertrude Moundouti Mitoumbi, a native of the Congo, teaches participants how to prepare a popular African dish in this class presented by City Market in collaboration with the Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program. Sustainability Academy at Lawrence Barnes, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9757.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 6-7:15 p.m.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

Family-Friendly Yoga: See February 4.

middlebury Public skating: See February 2. 9-10:30 a.m.

st. Albans Public skating: See February 2. 12:15-1:45 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon & 2 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4.

Library & Books

science story Time: Fantastic Foxes: Educator Kristen Littlefield gives little naturalists a peek into the wily world of these pointy-eared animals. Ages 3 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Williston story Time & crafts: See February 4.

music

children’s sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See February 4.

Nature & science

color mixing: Preschoolers and their families blend primary colors into brand-new hues. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

EcHo story Explorers: champ: Kids with active imaginations hear a tale of the famous Lake Monster and conduct an investigation. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $9.50-12.50; free for members and children under 2. Info, 864-1848.

Hoopster Gliders: See February 9.

Theater

‘sTomP’: This powerful percussive troupe brings its celebrated and unconventional stage show to Rutland. All ages. (See calendar spotlight on page 34.) Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 7:30 p.m. $39.50-49.50. Info, 775-0903.

19 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

After-school craft club: See February 12.

Baby & maternity

infant massage class: See February 5. montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See February 5. shelburne Postnatal/Baby & me Yoga: See February 5.

community

community sing Along: Rick and Laura Atkinson use a variety of instruments to accompany crooners of all abilities and ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:45 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

sleigh Ride Week: See February 15.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

cookie decorating: See February 5.

Health & Fitness

Adventures to Fitness: See February 5.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

EvoKids Afterschool Yoga: See February 5.

Kids Yoga: See February 3.

st. Albans Public skating: See February 2.

12:15-1:45 p.m.

Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1. 2:45-4:15 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon & 2 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4. Vergennes Kids Yoga: See February 5.

Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: See February 5.

Library & Books

Baby charms: Non-walking infants get silly as they sing, dance and make music with Miss Susan. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539.

Pajama story Time: Small ones curl up for bedtime tales, cookies and milk. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

music

moving & Grooving With christine: See February 5.

Preschool music With derek: See February 5.

Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate: See February 5.

Nature & science

optical Tops: Small scientists explore how rotational motion can create visual illusions. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. Parachutes: Curious kids make their own ’chutes to test air resistance. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Theater

‘sTomP’: See February 18.

20 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: See February 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See February 2. 5:45-7:15 p.m. shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See February 4. 8:4510 a.m.

community

sleigh Ride Week: See February 15.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Burlington itty Bitty Public skating: See February 3.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon itty Bitty Public skating: See February 3. st. Albans Public skating: See February 2. 12:15-1:45 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon & 2 p.m. south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Library & Books

Books-to-Film discussion: Middle schoolers read a novel on their own, then screen the movie version together. Ages 10 and up. Call for this month’s selection. Milton Public Library, 3:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644. Read to Van Gogh the cat: Feline fanciers sign up for 10-minute sessions with this furry friend. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

music

music for Preschoolers: See February 3. 10:30 a.m.

music With mr. chris: See February 6.

Nature & science

Fossils: Evidence of the Past: Youth sleuths clue in to the origins of preserved remains. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. skulls: Neophyte naturalists explore skeletal remains of local wildlife. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

21 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Essex Junction crafternoons: See February 7. Family Wheel drop-in: See February 7. Kinder Arts: See February 7.

Baby & maternity

Postnatal core Yoga: See February 7.

community

sleigh Ride Week: See February 15. stowe Kids Night out: Parents relax while their kids have a blast playing games, skating and hanging out. Ages 5-15. David Gale Recreation Center, Stowe, 6-10 p.m. $10; $5 dinner option; $5 skate option; preregister. Info, 253-6138.

Education

Early Bird math: See February 7.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Games

dungeons & dragons: See February 7.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 7:15-8:30 p.m.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon marshfield open Gym: See February 7. middlebury Public skating: See February 2. Noon-1 p.m.

st. Albans Public skating: See February 2. 12:15-1:45 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. Noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4. Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: See February 5.

Library & Books

Jiggity Jog: A tuneful meet-up with Miss Susan entails singing, dancing and instrument playing. Ages 2-6. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539. stuffed-Animal sleepover & PJ story Hour: Kids listen to stories, drop off their fuzzy friends for a pajama party, and then come back at 9 a.m. the next morning to see photos of the adventure. All ages. Highgate Public Library, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

music

Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See February 7. music With derek: See February 7. music With Robert: See February 7.

Nature & science

Night sky: See February 1. sound science: Keen listeners explore how audio travels through different materials. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. straw Rockets: See February 2.

Happy Trails

Nature lovers of all ages celebrate glistening, snow-covered Vermont at the Green Mountain Club’s WiNTER TRAiLs FEsTiVAL participants convene in the morning at the visitor center in Waterbury Center to sign up for a variety of snowshoe, cross-country skiing and geocaching treks nearby. Those who’d prefer to stay put can partake in on-site activities including sled-dog and raptor demos, face painting, snowflake making and a bonfire. In the afternoon, an après-hike party includes refreshments, a raffle and live Irish music by Dave Day & friends.

WiNTER TRAiLs FEsTiVAL: Saturday, February 1, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Green Mountain Club Visitor Center in Waterbury Center. $8-10 for adults; free for kids; proceeds benefit the Long Trail and other Vermont hiking experiences. Snowshoes and cross-country skis available to borrow. All ages. Info, 241-8320. greenmountainclub.org

22 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

craft school saturday drop-in: See February 1.

Baby & maternity

Pregnancy circle: Moms-to-be use movement, food, art, breathing and discussion to explore maternity topics and build a supportive community. Birth Journeys, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $5-15; preregister. Info, 373-3236.

See Dr. first videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

community

Jay Peak sleigh Rides: See February 1. Playdate! Farm & Food Fun: Little explorers meet up with friends for theme-based, indoor activities at a leisurely pace. Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch or snack.

Ages 2-5. Shelburne Farms, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $3-5 per child with accompanying adult. Info, 985-8686.

shelburne sleigh Rides: See February 1. sleigh Ride Week: See February 15.

Fairs & Festivals

st. Albans Winter carnival: Outdoor family activities include sled races, fort building and fireworks at dusk, while face painting, games and crafts provide indoor fun. All ages. Taylor Park, St. Albans, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1500.

Food

capital city Winter Farmers market: See February 8.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Kids in the Kitchen: coconut Tapioca Pudding: This 1950s diner favorite gets an update with vanilla bean-infused coconut milk, fresh mango and spiced caramel sauce. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 1:30-2:30 p.m. $20 per parent-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Norwich Winter Farmers market: See February 8.

Rutland Winter Farmers market: See February 1.

Games

manga club: Fans of Japanese animation meet to share book recommendations and tell stories. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1.

EvoKids saturday Yoga: See February 1. st. Albans Public skating: See February 2. Feb. 23, 12:15-1:45 p.m.

Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1.

shelburne open Gym: See February 1. south Burlington Public skating: See February 1.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Nature & science

champ Week: Believers and skeptics alike become cryptozoologists for a week as they explore the facts and legends surrounding our resident lake monster. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $9.5012.50; free for children under 2 and members. Info, 864-1848.

EcHo story Explorers: champ: See February 18.

Gearing Up: Little builders create unique contraptions. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

‘march of the Penguins’ screening: This Academy Award-winning documentary chronicles the journey of thousands of emperor penguins as they head for their traditional breeding ground. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 3 p.m. $5-11. Info, 457-2355.

my sky: See February 1. Night sky: See February 1. owl Festival: Visitors have a hoot unraveling the mysteries of this bird of prey through hands-on activities and exciting games. All ages. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 4. Info, 359-5000.

owl Prowl: Wilderness explorers look for winged predators on a woodland hike, followed by hot refreshments and a visit with a live owl. Ages 10 and up. Shelburne Farms, 6-8 p.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Planetarium Presentation: See February 1. Who sank the Boat?: Newbie boatbuilders craft a vessel, then see how much weight it can hold before sinking. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Theater

saturday drama club: See February 1.

23 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See February 2.

community

Jay Peak sleigh Rides: See February 1. shelburne sleigh Rides: See February 1. sleigh Ride Week: See February 15.

Fairs & Festivals

d uct Tape d erby: Kids and adults with the need for speed create vessels out of cardboard and heavy-duty tape in advance, then race them for a chance to win awards in different categories. All ages. Hard’ack, St. Albans, 2-4 p.m. $10-13 for entrants; preregister. Info, 524-1500.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 2:30-4 p.m.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. Lollipop Races: See February 2. middlebury Public skating: See February 2. st. Albans Public skating: See February 2. Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1. 12:30-2:30 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 1-2:30 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3. 12:452:30 p.m.

YoGirls Yoga class: See February 2.

Nature & science

champ Week: See February 22.

Kitchen c hemistry: Mad scientists combine common household products, which yield unexpectedly entertaining results. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

23 sunday (continued)

Leafcutter ants: Nature fans examine the secret lives of “insect fungus farmers” during this hands-on investigation. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Planetarium Presentation: See February 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

shelburne Postnatal/Baby & me yoga: See February 5.

Food

See dr. first videos “First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Wildlife Wanderers club: Families connect with Mother Nature during an outdoor adventure complete with games, activities, investigation and observation. Meet at the park gate. Red Rocks Park, South Burlington, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4108.

24 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal yoga: See February 3. Vergennes Prenatal yoga: See February 3.

Food chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

Kids yoga: See February 3.

Little yogis: See February 3. Preschool yoga: See February 3.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Library & Books

intergenerational dessert Book discussion: Lit lovers gather for a good read-and-rant session, complete with something sweet. Grades 6 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

school Break stories on The screen: Kids spend a vacation day afternoon watching animated shorts and stories from around the world on the library’s SMARTboard. South Burlington Community Library, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

music

Kids music with Raphael: See February 3. music for Preschoolers: See February 3. 10:45 a.m.

shake your sillies out: See February 3.

nature & science

champ Week: See February 22. mirror, mirror: See February 16. 3 p.m. straw Rockets: See February 2.

25 TUESDAY

arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: See February 4. south Burlington crafternoons: School breakers make winter-themed crafts during this drop-in session. All ages. South Burlington Community Library, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Postnatal yoga: See February 2. 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Burlington Prenatal yoga: See February 2. 4-5:30 p.m.

shelburne Prenatal yoga: See February 4.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 6-7:15 p.m.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

Family-Friendly yoga: See February 4.

middlebury Public skating: See February 2.

9-10:30 a.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

sport night out: Young athletes take part in an active adventure. Dinner and dessert provided. Ages 5-12. Underhill I.D. Elementary School, Jericho, 6-8 p.m. $8; preregister. Info, 862-9622. stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4.

Library & Books

drawing dragons: Artist Elizabeth Llewellyn helps young illustrators dream up and create mythical creatures. Ages 8 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1-2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918. minute To Win it!: See February 8. movie day: Kids gather to watch a flick with their friends on a day off from school. All ages. Call for movie selection. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

school Break stories on The screen: See February 24.

movies

Vacation movie: ‘Planes’: Crop duster Dusty finds the courage to take on the world’s fastest flyers in the greatest air race ever. Popcorn and soda provided. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

music

children’s sing-along With Lesley Grant: See February 4.

nature & science

champ Week: See February 22. creeping colors: See February 8. EcHo story Explorers: champ: See February 18.

skulls: See February 20.

Theater

“‘sesame street’ Live: Elmo makes music”: Peppy puppets sing their way through fun and educational lessons as they rescue their music teacher’s missing instruments. All ages. (See calendar spotlight on page 38.) Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 3:30 & 7 p.m. $19.76-52.46; free for babies under 1. Info, 863-5966.

26

WEDNESDAY

arts & crafts

Papermaking Workshop: Young crafters learn how to make their own writing canvas. Ages 9-12. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

snow dough day: See February 8. south Burlington crafternoons: See February 25.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal yoga: See February 5. nursing Beyond a year: Moms gather to discuss the joys and challenges of an older nursling. Discussion topics include nighttime parenting, weaning and setting limits. Bring a snack to share. Aikido of Champlain Valley, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-3000.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Games

intergenerational Wii Bowling: An afternoon of fun and fitness awaits gamers of all ages.

Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

adventures to Fitness: See February 5.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon

EvoKids afterschool yoga: See February 5.

Kids yoga: See February 3.

Lyndon center Public skating: See February 1. 2:45-4:15 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4.

Vergennes Kids yoga: See February 5.

Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: See February 5.

Library & Books

school Break stories on The screen: See February 24.

Toy Hacking: Inquisitive kids examine the insides of play things. Tools and toys provided. Grades 4-6. Waterbury Public Library, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

music

moving & Grooving With christine: See February 5.

Preschool music With derek: See February 5.

Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate: See February 5.

nature & science

champ Week: See February 22. Exploring magnets: See February 17. 11 a.m.

Parachutes: See February 19.

27 THURSDAY

arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool art drop-in: See February 6.

south Burlington crafternoons: See February 25.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal yoga: See February 2. 5:45-7:15 p.m.

shelburne Prenatal yoga: See February 4. 8:4510 a.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Games

Library Legos: See February 13. 1-5 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Library & Books

Fly Tying Workshops: Young adults look toward the fishing season as they learn how to make flies that will help them catch the big one. Ages 12 and up. Waterbury Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

Lego creations!: Building fans design structures to display at the library. Ages 5 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1:30-3 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

school Break stories on The screen: See February 24.

stories on The screen: The library screens television programs for little ones in collaboration with Vermont Public Television. Ages 5 and under. South Burlington Community Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

music

music for Preschoolers: See February 3. 10:30 a.m.

music With mr. chris: See February 6.

nature & science

champ Week: See February 22.

Fossils: Evidence of the Past: See February 20. Hoopster Gliders: See February 9.

28 FRIDAY

arts & crafts

Essex Junction crafternoons: See February 7.

Family Wheel drop-in: See February 7.

Baby & maternity

Postnatal core yoga: See February 7.

Education

Early Bird math: See February 7.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See February 1.

Games

magic: The Gathering: See February 14.

Health & Fitness

Barre Public skating: See February 1. 7:15-8:30 p.m.

Essex open Gym: See February 2. 11 a.m.-noon middlebury Public skating: See February 2. Noon-1 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See February 1. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See February 3.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See February 4. Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: See February 5.

Library & Books

school Break stories on The screen: See February 24.

music

Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See February 7. music With derek: See February 7.

nature & science

c hamp Week: See February 22.

Friday n ights for Teen Tinkerers: Would-be Ben Franklins create, design or build something cool, from “Frankenstuffies” to stop-motion animation. Grades 6-9. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6:30-8 p.m. $14-16; preregistration encouraged. Info, 649-2200.

n ight s ky: See February 1.

o ptical i llusions: Young minds discover that things are not always what they seem during this science-based session. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. sound science: See February 21. K

submit your march events for print by February 15 at kidsvt.com or calendar@kidsvt.com.

Playgroups

MONDAY

Barre Open Gym: Sunrise Gymnastics, Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon. $10 per child. Info, 223-0517.

Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers & Toddlers: St. Joseph School, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 999-5100.

Burlington Early Learning Readiness Class: VNA Family Room, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-8147.

Cambridge Playgroup: Cambridge Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Colchester Playgroup: Malletts Bay School, Tuesdays, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5900.

Jericho Playgroup: Jericho Community Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Morrisville Hometown Playgroup: Morristown Graded Building, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: Barlow Street Community Center, Fridays, 3-5:30 p.m. $11-14 per session. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Swanton Playgroup: Swanton Elementary School, Fridays, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, swantonbbf@gmail.com.

Williston Playgroup: Alice in Noodleland: Buttered Noodles, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

Winooski Fathers & Children Together: Winooski Family Center, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

TUESDAY

Bristol Playgroup: Bristol Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Burlington Dad’s Night: VNA Family Room, 3-7 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington Family Play: VNA Family Room, Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Colchester Playgroup: See Monday.

Kids enjoy fun and games during these informal get-togethers, and caregivers connect with other local parents and peers. The groups are usually free and often include snacks, arts and crafts, or music. Contact the playgroup organizer or visit kidsvt.com for site-specific details. Schedules generally follow the school calendar; call ahead to confirm.

Essex Junction RU12? LGBTQA Family Playgroup: Leaps and Bounds Child Development Center, Essex Junction, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; meets second Wednesday of every month. Info, 860-7812.

Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrop Memorial Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 827-3945.

Hinesburg Playgroup: Hinesburg Town Hall, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-4061.

Milton Playgroup: Milton Public Library, 9:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 893-1457.

Richford Tumble Time: Richford Elementary, Every other Wednesday, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free; alternates every other Wednesday with PJ Story Time. Info, 370-4797.

Richmond Playgroup: Richmond Free Library, 8:45-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Shelburne Playgroup: Trinity Episcopal Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 734-1233. South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264.

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: See Monday.

St. Albans Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, St. Albans, 8:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

South Burlington RU12? LGBTQA Family Playgroup: Leaps and Bounds Child Development Center, South Burlington, Feb. 26, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-7812.

Vergennes Playgroup: 2 Wolves Holistic Center, 12-2 p.m. $5 suggested donation. Info, 870-0361.

Williston Evening Babytime Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Feb. 5, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

THURSDAY

Alburgh Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, Alburgh, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Brandon Stories & Crafts: Brandon Free Public Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 247-8230.

Worcester Playgroup: Doty Memorial School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 223-1312.

FRIDAY

Bradford Story Hour: Bradford Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 222-4536.

Burlington Early Learning Readiness Class: See Monday.

Essex Junction MOPS: Essex Alliance Church, Feb. 4, 8:45-11 a.m. & 6:30-8:45 p.m. $5 includes childcare and a meal; first meeting is free. Meets every other Tuesday. Info, 310-6489.

Fletcher Playgroup: Fletcher Elementary School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 849-9368.

Georgia Playgroup: Georgia Elementary & Middle School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 528-5470.

Hardwick Playgroup: Hardwick Elementary School, 8:15-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 652-5138.

Johnson Baby Chat: Church of the Nazarene, fourth Tuesday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

Middlebury Playgroup: Middlebury Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Montpelier Tulsi Morning Playgroup: Tulsi Tea Room, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 223-0043.

Richford Playgroup: Cornerstone Bridges to Life Community Center, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797.

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: See Monday.

St. Albans Water Babies: Fitness Zone, 6-6:40 p.m. Free. Info, 999-9703.

Winooski Early Learning Readiness Class: Y Early Childhood Program Winooski, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-8147.

WEDNESDAY

Barre Open Gym: See Monday.

Enosburg Playgroup: American Legion, Enosburg, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797.

Essex Building Bright Futures Baby Playgroup: Move You Fitness Studio, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: Evolution Yoga, second Thursday of every month, 10:20 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 864-9642.

Burlington Family Play: See Tuesday.

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Playgroup: Essex Junction Recreation and Parks Department, 9:30-11 a.m. Free; bring indoor shoes. Info, 876-7555.

Johnson Hometown Playgroup: United Church of Johnson, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Milton Playgroup: See Wednesday. Montgomery Infant/Toddler Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 347-1780.

Montpelier Baby Play: St. Augustine Parish, 9:30-11 a.m. Free; no playgroup on February 27. Info, 262-3292.

Montpelier Dads & Kids Playgroup: Family Center of Washington County, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; no playgroup on February 27. Info, 262-3292.

Morrisville Baby Chat: First Congregational Church of Morrisville, first Thursday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

South Hero Playgroup: South Hero Congregational Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 796-3309.

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: See Monday.

Waterbury MOPS: Thatcher Brook Primary School, Feb. 6, 6:30-8 p.m. First meeting is free; $24 yearly dues with scholarships available. Info, 272-9606.

Winooski Early Learning Readiness Class: See Tuesday.

Burlington Family Gym: Greater Burlington YMCA, Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $5 for families with one child; $8 for families with multiple children; free for YMCA members. Info, 862-9622.

Charlotte Playgroup: Charlotte Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 764-5820.

Fairfax Community Playgroup: BFA Fairfax, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, fairfaxsx6@gmail.com.

Ferrisburgh Open Gym: Ferrisburgh Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Georgia Tumble Time: Georgia Elementary & Middle School, Feb. 7, 1:50-2:35 p.m. Free. Info, 528-5470.

Huntington Playgroup: Huntington Public Library, 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Isle La Motte Playgroup: Isle La Motte School, 8:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 796-3309.

Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 347-1780.

Randolph Toddler Time: Kimball Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073.

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: See Monday.

St. Albans MOPS: Church of the Rock, first Friday of every month, 8:45-11 a.m. First meeting is free; $4 dues per each meeting that follows. Info, 393-4411.

Stowe Playgroup: Stowe Community Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Swanton Playgroup: See Monday.

Swanton Playgroup: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3033.

Underhill Playgroup: Underhill Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, 9:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

SATURDAY

Bakersfield Tumble Time: Bakersfield Elementary/Middle School, second Saturday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797.

Burlington Family Gym: See Friday.

Enosburg Tumble Time: Enosburg Elementary School, first Saturday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797.

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Preschool Open Gym: Maple Street Recreation Center, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1613.

Fairfax Open Tot Gym & Infant/Parent

Playtime: BFA Fairfax, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. No session on February 23. Info, fairfaxsx6@gmail. com.

Franklin Tumble Time & Playgroup: Franklin Central School, Feb. 8, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6678.

Montpelier Morning Playgroup: Family Center of Washington County, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 262-3292.

Morrisville Weekend Baby Chat: Lamoille Family Center, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

South Burlington Tots & Tykes Open Gym: Chamberlin Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4108.

Swanton Tumble Time: Swanton Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3033. Williston Russian Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Feb. 1, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 878-4918.

SUNDAY

Burlington Family Gym: See Friday.

Backyard Skating Rink

By Becky Tharp

OuTdOOr fun isn’T always easy to find during the coldest, darkest months of the year. But Jeremy Sibold has a slippery solution: Each year, the dad of two builds a 120-square-foot ice rink in his family’s Essex Junction backyard.

parents: Jeremy and sonya sibold

kids: sam, 10, ben, 8

To start, Sibold cuts sheets of plywood in half, making enough 4-by-4-foot panels to serve as walls for a 30-by40-foot rink. He supports the walls with metal and wooden garden stakes. Then he covers the ground within the rink with a plastic liner; this will hold water in the

frame until it turns to ice. The liner costs $80 to $100 and can last up to two years. The Sibolds let water from the garden hose run into the rink for six to eight hours until it’s two to four inches deep. Then, they wait for the liquidto-solid transformation.

Ben Sibold, 8, doesn’t play ice hockey, but he loves to skate just as much as his hockey-playing big brother, Sam, 10. Their dad says the rink is at its best in the dark. “On a winter night, we’ll get a fire going outside and the lights shining on the rink,” he says. “Neighbors and friends stop by, and all the kids will be skating. We love it, and it really isn’t that much work.” K

Tips for backyard rink success:

• Set up your rink on level ground. It will save time, and water, to have a uniform ice thickness from end to end.

• Timing is everything. Flood the rink when the forecast predicts temperatures in the 20s or lower for a couple of days, with no precipitation.

• Snow is the enemy of a smooth skating surface. Shovel off the white stuff quickly after a storm.

• Your rink will lose its perfect glossy surface over time. Freshen it up by flooding the top of the ice with water on a clear, cold night.

PUZZLE PAGE

Puzzles4Kids

Riddle Search — February 14

Look up, down and diagonally, both forward and backward, to find every word on the list. Circle each one as you find it. When all the words are circled, take the UNUSED letters and write them on the blanks below. Go from left to right and top to bottom to find the answer to this riddle: What should you do on February 14 if you love your car? ADMIRER

GRAND-PRIZE WINNER

ZOEY lives in South Burlington and turns 4 on February 28. She loves ferris wheels, alpine slides and broccoli.

Zoey wins eight open-gym passes.

To

EDIE lives in Hubbardton and turns 3 on February 1. She started snowboarding at 10 months old (pictured) and she loves it!

BY HELENA HOVANEC

NATHAN lives in Monkton and turns 6 on February 28. He is a very energetic and fun kid who loves reading, superheroes, LEGOs, camping and swimming.

Riddle Answer:

HAILEE lives in New Haven and turns 7 on February 8. She loves baby dolls, singing, gymnastics, drawing, and riding with her brother on their four-wheeler!

birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled.

names

Edie, Nathan and Hailee each win a 90-minute open-gym pass or a family pass to the Play Village.

Hands-on

Love Tree

GoT a branch or Two lefT oVer from your chrisTmas Tree? Here’s a fun way to reuse them and spread the love this Valentine’s Day. Follow these instructions to make a mini tree adorned with heart-shaped love notes. It’s the perfect antidote to cabin fever.

— Megan JaMes

insTrucTions

materials

• apple

• acrylic paint

• Paintbrush

• Large sheet of white, red or pink card

• scissors

• needle and thread

• Jar or vase

• Handful of coins or pebbles

• Tree branch

1. slice the apple in half, parallel to its core. then lay the apple halves on a cutting board, white sides up, and trim off the bottom two corners of each. you should end up with two heart-shaped stamps.

2. spread some paint on a plate. Press the white side of the apples into it, or use the paintbrush to coat them evenly in paint.

3. stamp the apple hearts all over the sheet of paper.

4. When the prints are dry, make them into individual ornaments by cutting them out.

5. attach a loop of thread to the top of each print; you can either use the needle or just tape the thread to the back of the print.

6. now, the fun part: Write what you love about someone on the back of each print.

7. Put the tree branch in the jar or vase; you can toss in a couple of inches of coins or pebbles — or conversation heart candies — to keep the branch from falling over.

8. Hang your heart ornaments on the branch. K

COLORING CONTEST!

Three winners will receive $25 gift cards to Creative Habitat and free framing of their artwork for its Kids Gallery, located at the store on 555 Shelburne Road in Burlington. After a monthlong display of the winning artwork, Creative Habitat will give each artist the framed print to display at home.

Send Kids VT your work of art by February 15. Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 5 and younger, (2) ages 6-8 and (3) ages 9-12. Winners will be named in the March issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to KidsVT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

ELISHA OTIS Inventor of the Modern Elevator

Elisha Otis was born in 1811 on a farm in Halifax, Vermont.

As a boy, he often slipped away from his duties tending cows in the fields to watch the local blacksmith make things.

Otis grew up to build horse carriages, beds and even toys!

While working in a factory in Yonkers, New York, Otis was looking for an easy way to move things to upper floors and became interested in elevators, which were used to lift animals and supplies.

Otis wanted to make elevators safe enough to carry people, so in 1852, he invented one with a special brake to keep it from falling. He unveiled it to amazed visitors at the 1854 New York World’s Fair.

But sometimes the elevators broke or slipped.

Today, Otis elevators can be found in the Empire State Building, the Eiffel Tower and many other tall buildings around the world.

Vermont Ballet Theater School

Summer Dance at VBTS

✱ CONTEST Book Review

Sponsored by

Calling all bookworms!

Send us a thoughtful paragraph about a recent read for the chance to win some literary loot.

March 8th

Call 878-2941 or visit vbts.org for details.

Summer Intensive 2014

A comprehensive program

June 16-27

Shelburne • Ages 8-9

June 23-July 25

Essex • Ages 10 & up

July 28-August 8

Essex • Teens

Book:

Author:

Also

Describe your favorite part of the story. What did you like about it?

Feel free to use additional pages!

k4t-vtbs0214.indd 1 1/23/14 4:40 PM

Vermont Public Television

Contest opens Monday, January 6

Entrees must be submitted by Friday, March 21

Open to kids Kindergarten through 3rd Grade

We’ll pick the four most creative entries and excerpt them in the next issue. Winners receive a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop. Deadline to enter is February 15. Send your entries to: Kids VT, attn: Book Review, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

Hosted by Vermont Public Television

Full contest details at vpt.org January 2014

Unmarried, With Children

A single mom dives back into the dating pool

BY HELEIGH BOSTWICK

BACK IN 2003, I was 42 years old, recently divorced, childless and still wanted kids. I was working in New York City at the time, and, thinking I could find a mate the oldfashioned way, I called a dating service. But they wouldn’t take me as a client; they made it clear that I was too old.

So I signed up for Match.com. With my reproductive system running out of time, I had a decision to make: Find a husband to have children with or become a single mother using an anonymous sperm donor.

Fifty-plus dates later, I chose the latter. Getting remarried wasn’t so important, but, I thought, When I’m old and gray, will I look back on my life and regret not having a child? My answer was a resounding yes.

Two weeks after my 44th birthday, I gave birth to a healthy set of twins, beautiful baby girls.

Eight months later, I moved to Vermont, where I had grown up. I preferred life in the big city, but once I had kids, I was ready to leave.

By 2010, I had settled into my new identity as a mom. The girls had started school, and although there were — and still are — plenty of challenges in raising two children alone, life was pretty good.

Still, I was nearing 50 and had been single for close to a decade. I needed a break and some adult company. Plus, I wanted my daughters to be exposed to a healthy adult relationship. They’d never seen what a partnership looks like. I thought I was ready to start dating again.

So I called Nicole Leclerc, a Vermont matchmaker. We met for co ee, she asked thoughtful questions, wrote me a profile and set me up with half a dozen men. It didn’t take me long to realize that being an older mom with younger kids added a new twist to the dating game.

At my age, there aren’t as many single men available. And here in Vermont, they sometimes live far away. Since I’m the sole parent, every date I go on requires me to hire a babysitter. At $10 an hour, that adds up quickly.

Then there’s the age factor. I dated several men who were much older than me, sometimes by 10 or 15 years. A decade from now, my kids will be grown up. I’m not sure I want to be a caretaker to my partner just as my kids are leaving the nest.

Many men my age have grown children, and some even have grandchildren. That’s not a deal breaker for me, but it usually is for them. Once I mention that I have younger kids, they tend to disappear.

That wasn’t the case with Dan. He knew I was mom to a pair of 6-year-olds, and he was still interested. For the first couple of months, we’d meet in the parking lot at the local Starbucks, then drive o to our date. I didn’t want my kids seeing him yet because I didn’t know what to tell them.

The girls are fine with not having a dad. I’ve been telling them the story of how they came to be since they were born. “We don’t have a dad in our family; we have a donor,” I’ve overheard them explain to curious classmates.

But since our family is dad-less, they’d never seen me being a ectionate with a guy. They’d never been exposed to mom and dad kissing. I wasn’t sure they’d understand what I meant if I told them I had a boyfriend. I wanted their lives to be stable, so I took it all slowly.

One summer evening, Dan and I wanted to go to the beach but couldn’t find a babysitter. He suggested bringing the girls with us. When I told them of the plan, a look of alarm passed over their little faces.

I’d told them we’d all be going together, but still, they asked, “Are you going to leave us?” I could tell they were worried about this new person coming into our lives. I made sure they understood that I wasn’t going anywhere without them, and took the opportunity to explain that Dan was simply my “friend who is a boy.” That was a concept they understood. We had a nice evening at the beach together, but my relationship with Dan eventually fizzled. I had wanted someone steady in my life so that the girls would have a relationship role model; he was hesitant to commit.

I could still find someone, but the truth is, I love the companions I already have. These days, my girls, now 10, are capable of holding thoughtful, intelligent conversations and making meaningful contributions to family life.

“Don’t forget we need to buy a present for Clara,” one reminded me recently.

“Where is the party again?” I asked, too many things on my mind to remember exactly where we were heading later that day.

“Don’t worry, Mom, I know how to get there,” said the other.

Maybe dating isn’t so important right now. We’re having plenty of fun being a family — just the three of us.

Being an older mom with younger kids added a new twist to the dating game.

Activities offered by CAMP

• Group Sports (including but not limited to: baseball, soccer, floor hockey, basketball, kickball)