Kids VT, March 2013

THE CAMP ISSUE

✱ DADS SHARE SLEEPAWAY STRATEGIES

✱ CROSSFIT — FOR KIDS

✱ EASTER EGGSHELL FLOWERPOTS

Happy Campers!

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY... Are Vermont schools prepared?

LEARN. PLAY

Artist Tyler Parker drew this month’s whimsical specialtycamp-themed cover illustration.

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

Copublisher Colby Roberts colby@kidsvt.com ext. 77

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

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

Managing Editor Carolyn Fox carolyn@kidsvt.com ext. 73

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

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

P.O. Box 1184 Burlington, VT 05402

Published 11x per year. Circulation: 25,000 at 400+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.

• © 2013 Da Capo Publishing Inc.

rights reserved.

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

Marisa Keller

Production Manager John James

Lead Designer Brooke Bousquet

Designers Andrew Sawtell

Rev. Diane Sullivan

Circulation Manager Steve Hadeka

Digital Media Manager Tyler Machado

Office Manager Cheryl Brownell

Contributing Writers: Joseph A. Citro, Erik Esckilsen, Tasha Lehman, Cindy Morgan, Alison Novak, Ken Picard, Ana Ruesink, Eva Sollberger, Sarah Tuff, Lindsay J. Westley

Photographers: Matthew Thorsen, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur

Illustrators: Tyler Parker, Rev. Diane Sullivan, Torrey Valyou

Enter

Bring your artwork to Lenny’s by March 24. Sponsored by Bogs

Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8 and (3) ages 9-12. The best artwork will be featured on our Facebook page and winners will be notified via telephone. Bring submissions to Lenny’s in Williston, St. Albans or Barre.

Design courtesy of Christina Ann Rodriguez with modifications

by Bobbie Jo Roby and Amanda Cashin

Bowled Over

Bowling is a great antidote for cabin fever — for parents, cold, muddy March, not April, is the cruelest month. As part of our Birthday Club, Kids VT gives away four Spare Time gift certificates in every issue — $50 for one grand-prize winner, $10 each for three others.

Connecting parents with tips and resources is part of our mission here at Kids VT

my son, Graham, Turned 7 in February. We typically have his birthday party at home, but this year he asked to celebrate at Spare Time, a bowling alley in Colchester that, coincidentally, sponsors the Kids VT Birthday Club. There was no coercion involved, I swear. It was entirely his idea.

We arrived a few minutes before noon on a recent Saturday and discovered that Graham was one of many, many birthday boys and girls there that day. Practically every lane was decked out with party paraphernalia. One guest’s dad confided that Graham’s party was his son’s third there in three weeks.

Not surprisingly, that kid was the best bowler. He earned the top score of 93; Graham’s 87 was a close second.

I think I was the only one who noticed, though. I kept high fiving the kids and saying things like, “Show us what you’ve got!” But they didn’t seem to care about winning, or even making contact with the pins. Despite the bumpers, the kids threw some gutterballs. One boy’s ball stopped mid-lane; an attendant had to retrieve it. But that didn’t dampen the young bowler’s enthusiasm.

To that end, each issue is full of contests and giveaways — in addition to the Birthday Club (page 54), there’s the Coloring Contest (page 53), the Book Review (page 52) and, this month, a commenting contest on our website (see the ad on page 21).

We’ve also packed this Camp Issue with suggestions for summer plans, from advice on helping your kids spend the night away from home (“Go Ask Dad,” page 14) to mini-profiles of local specialty camps (“Thrills and Skills,” page 25).

Wondering whether you should sign your son or daughter up for a summer adventure? Flip to “Stuck in Vermont” video journalist Eva Sollberger’s essay on page 55; she explains how camp helped her find lifelong friends and a deep appreciation for Vermont.

We hope this issue of Kids VT helps you better appreciate what the state has to offer. Have we bowled a strike? Or rolled one into the gutter? Drop us a line and let us know.

— cathy resmer, executive editor

P.S. Kids VT is sponsoring the UVM men’s basketball game on Sunday, March 3 — another great cabin-fever reliever. Come say hello!

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

Joseph A. Citro (“Because Project”) has been writing and publishing Vermontbased books — novels and nonfiction — since 1987. His 2012 publications include Vermont’s Haunts and Not Yet Dead (the latter, he notes, is not his autobiography).

Alison Novak (“Art of Writing Poetry”) is a school coordinator for the Everybody Wins! Vermont mentoring program, as well as a reading tutor. She lives in Shelburne with her husband, Jeff, and their kids, Mira and Theo.

Eva Sollberger (“Use Your Words”) is Seven Days’ multimedia producer and the creator of the “Stuck in Vermont” web-video series, which celebrated its 300th episode in February. Find that video, and all the rest, online at sevendaysvt.com.

c athy r es M er

Graham Resmer and Charlie Warner at Spare Time

Readers Respond

Daycare Discourse

Our February feature story “Daycare Nightmares: How do parents know when Vermont childcare providers break the rules?” generated thousands of views on our website, 88 “likes” on Facebook and many comments from readers. Here are a few, below. Did you miss it? Find it, and all of our content, on our website, kidsvt.com.

I HAVE BEEN A CHILDCARE PROVIDER for over six years, and I need to specify that these “daycare nightmares” are something that can be avoided. There are so many preschools and daycare providers in Vermont that meet and exceed every aspect of early education and emotional development. Do your homework as a parent before you enroll your child in a particular center. Not all of us deserve the negative opinions.

Chelsea Myers Jeffersonville

AS CONTROVERSIAL AS THIS ARTICLE MAY BE, I’m glad to see Kids VT confronting serious issues for Vermont’s children — primarily, calling attention to the lack of state specialists who oversee daycare programs. After reading this article, I believe Kids VT would fully agree that it’s up to parents to do research before handing over your child to someone else. There are many young parents putting children in full-time daycare, as I do, and they need to read articles like this to empower their decisions by knowing what resources are available to them.

Rebecca LaChance Georgia

WE ALL WANT CHILDREN TO BE SAFE and nurtured. The childcare challenges reported by Ken Picard are frightening and painful to read. Please remember that these are extreme examples of what can go wrong. Much goes well in childcare each day due to the hard

work and dedication of the majority of our childcare workforce. Child Care Resource is behind the scenes working with many childcare programs genuinely interested in continually improving their practice.

These stories underline the need for strengthened regulatory oversight, including updated regulations and adequate sta to monitor compliance. The State of Vermont is working diligently on this so that children can be safer in childcare.

But direct regulatory oversight can go just so far. It’s essential for parents to be educated about childcare so that they can choose wisely. At Child Care Resource, we help parents learn how to choose. We provide a sounding board when things could be going better. Sometimes that means helping parents understand how to report a concern to childcare regulators at the state.

Of course, only state regulators can decide whether a program can stay open. This article raises questions about the nuances of applying complex regulations. It’s important to remember that the more information regulators have from parents and childcare workers, the better they can keep children safe.

Elizabeth Meyer Williston

Meyer is the executive director of Child Care Resource

I ALWAYS APPRECIATE how Kids VT highlights a four- or five-star program in each issue [“Seeing STARS,” February-December 2012]. I also greatly appreciate this article, as it brings to light what I consider to be one of the most important problems Vermont is facing. Our childcare situation is mediocre, at best.

I am a professional in the earlychildhood field, working with children in my classroom and adults through the Community College of Vermont’s apprenticeship program. My child has a wonderful home provider whose house he visits daily. I have worked for the Vermont Department for Children and Families’ Child Development Division in the past.

[CDD Deputy Commissioner Reeva] Murphy’s nonchalance about

the treatment of children at Feels Like Home Playschool is, in my mind, a major part of this problem. What will it take before Vermont realizes the importance of taking care of our youngest? Will a child need to become seriously hurt, or worse, in order for Murphy and the state to take action?

While there are many, many wonderful childcare facilitates in this state, keeping ones like this open because parents and caregivers need a place to go is like o ering a child potato chips because, well, at least it’s food. Hiring two new licensers is a step. Now let’s hire five to 10 more and really keep on top of what is happening in each childcare center and in-home provider.

Erica Green Fairfax

Editor’s note: In 2012, Kids VT ran 10 “Seeing STARS” features spotlighting programs participating in STARS, the state’s voluntary childcare qualityrecognition program.

Happy Campers

Letters from those who attended the Kids VT Camp & School Fair on February 2

husband and I were able to sit down and not only plan out my son’s entire summer, but also schedule our family time more e ectively. Thank you so much for putting on such a wonderful event.

Shannon Ly Burlington

Ly is the cofounder of the BurlingtonVT Moms Blog

Roadtrip Reviews

Comments on “Vermont Day-cations: Winter Edition”

MORSE FARM MAPLE

SUGARWORKS up by Montpelier is great to add in for families. What kids don’t like sampling the sweet stu ? Make that adults, too.

THE CAMP FAIR was great. I found all the camps we are going to try this year. This was a perfect way to see them all at once and start what can otherwise be a long and di cult process. So glad I went.

Becky Tharp Williston

I WENT TO THE CAMP FAIR and it was absolutely amazing! I have a 5-year-old, and last year we kind of left everything up to the last minute. However, after going to the fair and meeting with so many incredible exhibitors, my

MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE wanted to bring our three kids to the Fairbanks Museum in St. J for a long time! Looks like we will be making a trip there very soon!

Lauren Kelley Bellows Falls

I LOVE THE “Know Before You Go” section. I’m such a planner and having little bits of information ahead of time like prices, hints, where to park, etc., is a big help!

Heather Coughlin Colchester

Got a comment? Email us at feedback@kidsvt.com. Or create a profile at kidsvt.com and respond on our website.

Megan Rudy Quechee

Top Tw t

Throwback Thursdays

@Mauranda

So proud and happy for @TashaLehmanVT for writing for @KidsVT! Amazing articles. Grab the tissues, folks. This is real life!

Lehman is writing a series of posts on the Kids VT blog about her husband’s first military deployment. Find excerpts on page 22.

Follow us on Twitter: @KidsVT

COLORING CONTEST

Every dog has its day — Rufus, Kids VT’s cute o ce canine, had his when he modeled for our February Coloring Contest. It was puppy love at first sight with our readers: 140 aww-some entries rolled in! Check out some of our favorites.

Each week on our Facebook page, we revisit a story from the Kids VT archives. This one is always timely, especially during flu season: “Ask the Doctor: When is a child’s fever too high?”

“Like” us on Facebook: faceb k.com/kidsvt

Best of the Kids VT Blog...

HONORABLE MENTIONS

COOL COLOR-BLOCKING

“Orange Dog”

Shelby Martin, 9, Milton

EXCELLENCE IN CONSONANCE

“Flu y Pu cat”

Hazel Dority, 8, Fairfield

FANTASTIC FLORALS

“Daisy Dog”

Macy Bigelow, 4, Essex Junction

HEART-TASTIC HIPPIE

“Peace”

Eric Tetreault, 8, Jericho

KALEIDOSCOPIC CANINE

“Rainbow-bell”

Aliyah Lashua-Morris, 7, Montpelier

LOVE-LIEST LANDSCAPE

“Cutey Puppy”

Madelyn Ford, 8, South Burlington

MANE ATTRACTION

These winners get $25 from TD Bank.

“Choosing a Summer Camp”: Lucy Jackson Norvell, director of public information for the New England chapter of the American Camp Association, o ers some strategies.

“No, My Kids Aren’t Skiing, Thank You Very Much”: Alison Novak tests the slopes with her toddlers — and it doesn’t go as favorably as planned. Readers chime in with tips and disaster stories alike.

“Home Cookin’: Mac and Cheese”: Every family has a favorite version of mac and cheese — whether it comes from a blue box or the stovetop. Managing editor Carolyn Fox shares her recipe for the ultimate comfort food.

“The Lion Playground”

Sama Abdul Samad, 10, Burlington

PRETTIEST IN PINK

“Stripe Love”

Samantha Wilkinson, 8, South Burlington

SPECTACULAR SPOTS

“Javelin on Valentine’s Day”

Benjamin Poulin, 9, Shelburne

SWEETEST SENTIMENT

“Valentine Dog in Candy Store”

Aly Dorman, 4, Bristol

WONDERFUL WHISKERS

“Puppies, Love and Sweaters”

Emily Benz, 12, Burlington

TOP TITLES

“HOWL I ONLY HAVE EYES FOR YOU”

Isaac Areli, 3, Essex Junction

“I WOOF YOU!”

Grace Park, 6, Burlington

Rufus helped judge this month’s Coloring Contest. Just another day at work.

“WOOF YOU BE MINE?”

Emma Radler, 12, Ferrisburgh

Find this month’s coloring contest on page 53. The deadline for submissions is March 15.

Madeleine Lozier, 4 GEORGIA “Hug a Dog”

Sophie Frances Schuyler, 6 COLCHESTER

“The Snowy Day”

Emma Lowry, 9 BURLINGTON “Lovesick”

the BeAt

By c arolyn Fox and c athy r es M er

science

Turbine Teachers

Wind turbines are coming to Williston Central School this month — mini ones, that is. Volunteers from Make It Science, a group of IBM engineers and retirees, will build PVC-pipe wind towers for a group of seventh and eighth graders as part of the power in The wind project. During the three-week intensive, students will learn to build their own turbine blades out of recycled materials such as milk jugs and yogurt containers and compete to see which are the most energy efficient and attractive. IBM senior engineer Dave Harmon developed the curriculum, which integrates lessons in electricity, design and even civics — students stage a wind-energy debate as part of the project. Harmon says IBM encourages its staff to participate as a way to promote science and technical education. Sounds like the kind of project that should take a “spin” around the state.

— C.R. power in The wind: Find project and contact info at makeitscience.com.

communiTy Slumber Party

©Dreamstime.com/Jaroslavavolrabova

Many of us look forward to sleeping under the stars in the summer — but it’s another thing entirely to be camping out in the cold. Unfortunately, many young Vermonters don’t have any other option. Last March, Spectrum Youth & Family Services, a nonprofit nationally recognized for its homeless youth programs, held the inaugural specTrum’s sleep ouT, in which 43 business and community leaders showed solidarity by slumbering outside on cardboard boxes and tarps. It raised $90,000 for Spectrum’s programs supporting local teens and young adults. The Sleep Out is back this year on March 28, with participants committed to raising at least $2000 each for the cause. “We live in such a wonderful part of the world that it is often very easy to forget the challenges that many of our teens face,” wrote Katie Langrock, Vermont Teddy Bear Company’s senior vice president and COO, after participating last year. “Spectrum can help these teenagers change their lives.”

— C.F. specTrum’s sleep ouT: Find out who’s participating, and how to donate, at spectrumvt.org.

BOOKS

Forward-Thinking Females

If Women’s History Month inspires you to reflect upon how far females have come, Burlington author Tanya Lee Stone’s new children’s book is a good start. Appropriate for ages 4 and up, WHO SAYS WOMEN CAN’T BE DOCTORS? tells the story of Elizabeth Blackwell, America’s first female doctor, through spunky text and vivid illustrations. “Back in the 1830s, there were lots of things girls couldn’t be,” the story reads. “Girls were only supposed to become wives or mothers ... Being a doctor was definitely not an option.” Writing about the pioneering women who changed the course of history is familiar territory for Stone, whose 2008 picture book Elizabeth Leads the Way introduced young readers to leading su ragette Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

— C.F.

WHOSAYSWOMENCAN’TBEDOCTORS?: by Tanya Lee Stone and illustrated by Marjorie Priceman. Published by Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, 40 pages. $16.99. Info, tanyastone.com. Stone attends a book-launch party on Thursday, March 14, 4:30 p.m., at Flying Pig Books in Shelburne.

Trash to Treasure

Cassette tapes. Co ee stirrers. Floppy disks. If you think of these as trash, the Chittenden Solid Waste District’s CREATIVE REUSE SHOWCASE will make you reconsider. Chittenden County high schoolers turned these and other landfill-bound items into treasure for this annual art competition, which encourages community members to think twice about what we consume and discard. South Burlington High School students Sarah Ferry and Alex Groen nabbed the Best-in-Show title with their eco-friendly entry “Put a Cork In It,” a table creatively fashioned from old Christmas-tree stands, recycled PVC pipe and dozens of wine corks. From March 1 to 28, you can view all of this year’s winning pieces — and vote for your favorite — at Frog Hollow Vermont State Craft Center in Burlington.

TECHNOLOGY Picture This

Parents these days take tons of pictures and, thanks to the internet, it’s easy to share them. Uploading snapshots to Facebook or Twitter is simple, but it doesn’t always feel safe. Proud parents also run the risk of alienating Facebook friends who might not “like” looking at hundreds of baby pics. Enter NOTABLI. This new, free iPhone app allows parents to share photos and videos of their kids with a small, private network of family and friends. It’s the brainchild of Vermont designers Jackson Latka and Jory Raphael, two new dads who share o ce space in Burlington. The pair had wanted to collaborate on an app, says Latka, and “everything we talked about kept coming back to our kids.” They launched Notabli in February. Latka says there are more features to come.

— C.R.

NOTABLI: Available for free download in the Apple App Store.

It’s a handful!

When do cuts, bumps and bruises require medical attention?

By Ken Picard

CuTS, bumpS AnD bRuISeS are an inevitable part of childhood. Parents have to assess everything from skinned knees and “goose eggs” to the occasional sprained ankle or broken wrist. When is an injury serious enough to warrant a trip to the emergency room? This month, Lewis First, head of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care, offers advice for when kids go clunk

KIDS VT: How should parents treat a child’s cut, bump or bruise?

LEWIS FIRST: First, parents should remember that the vast majority of cuts, scrapes and bruises can be handled at home. So step one is for parents to stay calm, cool and collected. If you stress, your kids are going to stress, and it’s going to make it a lot more difficult.

With a cut, the first step is to clean it. Even if the cut is bleeding, try to expose it to water under high pressure for one to five minutes. It may start bleeding again, but that’s OK. Once the cut is cleaned, apply pressure with a sterile gauze pad, or just a clean cloth, for five to 10 minutes. And don’t peek! If you can hold the extremity above heart level, even better. Once the bleeding stops, put an antibacterial ointment on before the bandage to prevent germs from getting in.

KVT: When does a cut require stitches?

LF: If the cut is still bleeding after two rounds of applying pressure, that’s a reason to go to the emergency room. Also, if the cut is more than a half-inch long or more than a halfinch deep, you should seek medical attention. Other reasons to go are if you think something is stuck in there, such as broken glass, or if it’s a laceration to the face, chest or back, which can scar. While you’re there, make sure your child’s tetanus shot is up to date — that is, within five years.

KVT: How do you know if a bone is broken?

LF: A classic break is characterized by pain, swelling and deformity — that is, a lump or change in the bone’s position. In small children, bones are more likely to bend and partially break. Older kids are more likely to have complete, through-and-through fractures that may even poke through the skin. That’s

a serious emergency and requires immediate attention.

KVT: What should parents do about a fracture that dislocates the bone?

LF: Don’t try to relocate it. Keep the limb exactly where it is. Parents can put some padding, such as rolled-up towels, around the limb, then place it on a board and splint it with first-aid tape, ice it and head to the emergency room. If parents don’t know what they’re doing and try to pop it back in place, that can result in more pain, additional fractures and even pushing the bone through the skin.

KVT: What should parents do about a head injury?

LF: With any serious blow to the head, neck or back, leave the child where he or she is until an ambulance arrives. If there’s loss of consciousness, obviously, seek medical attention and don’t let the child get up when he or she regains consciousness.

After a minor head injury, parents should observe the child for the first two hours for signs of a possible concussion, which is a shaking and bruising of the brain. There can be a concussion even without a loss of consciousness. If the child vomits, complains of a persistent headache or has difficulty moving an arm or leg in the first six hours, seek medical help, since these may suggest that the brain has been bruised consistent with a concussion.

KVT: What are sprains?

LF: Sometimes parents will confuse a fracture with a sprain of the ligaments, which are the bands of cartilage that attach bone to bone. Those injuries can also cause pain and swelling. Typically with a fracture, the child doesn’t want to move that arm or leg at all. If there’s any question, parents need to seek medical attention and get an X-ray.

Whether it’s a suspected break or sprain, wrap an ice pack in a towel and put it on the injury. Don’t try to get an injured arm or leg in or out of clothing. Finally, with any bump, bruise or swelling without blood, just remember the acronym RICE: Rest, Icing, Compression and Elevation of the limb.

A bruise or “goose egg” on the forehead is a contusion; it doesn’t necessarily indicate a brain injury or concussion. To treat a goose egg, apply an ice pack for 15 minutes of every hour while the child is awake, or at least the first several hours after the injury. After 48 hours, you can use warm compresses to speed the healing.

KVT: What if a child faints after a minor cut?

LF: Some people have a neurological response to the sight of blood and get a little queasy. Get your child to lie down as quickly as possible if he or she feels dizzy, then reassure him or her that it’s a normal response to seeing something scary like blood oozing out of a cut or wound. Elevate the feet, as long as they can be moved; this helps the blood flow back to the brain. Fainting is not dangerous — unless the child lands on a sharp or hard object, causing further injury. K

Step one is for parents to stay calm, cool and collected.

Thinking Inside the Box

The CrossFiT Threshold TrAining sTudio in South Burlington is typically filled with serious athletes lifting barbells, doing pull-ups, swinging kettlebells and generally exercising themselves to exhaustion.

But on a recent Tuesday afternoon, the “box,” as CrossFit facilities are called, hosts a group of giggling children — my 6-year-old daughter, Dillon, among them.

It’s day one of CrossFit Kids, an eight-week session specifically designed to teach younger participants the fundamentals of this intense and varied fitness program that has exploded in popularity since its invention in 2000. While the official age range of the program is 3 to 18, this South Burlington box is focusing on ages 6 to 12 for now and will be adding a CrossFit Teens program for adolescents looking to train for specific sports or fitness goals.

As a fairly regular CrossFitter myself, I’m initially a bit nervous about putting Dillon through the rigors of such a hard-core exercise routine. But I soon discover that CrossFit Kids is a different animal — less guerrilla, more monkey.

“CrossFit Kids follows the methodology of functional fitness, but it’s fun and it’s geared to the growth and development of children,” says coach Meghan Barnes, who opened CrossFit TT with her husband, Tyler, last spring. With a 2-year-old son, they already knew a thing or two about pint-size people. And in addition to her adult-coaching credentials, Barnes holds a bachelor’s degree in early-childhood education, practiced CrossFit every day of her pregnancy and underwent a weekend of formal training for CrossFit Kids.

As a small group of moms and dads observe from the back, Barnes opens the 45-minute session for the younger set by teaching the halfdozen kids how to do a proper squat.

“Imagine that your feet are superglued to the floor,” explains Barnes. “Now put your hands out front, like a superhero.”

Her creative cues inspire a row of perfect squats — and smiles. She leads the kids through other basic steps: jumping on boxes and stacked weight plates, sprinting between cones, jumping jacks and “burpees” — aka squat thrusts. Then it’s time to thread the steps into an official workout, which, according to CrossFit culture, changes each time.

In adult CrossFit, the exercises bring on guttural grunts and pained facial expressions. Here, everybody seems to be having a blast. There’s no groaning and moaning — and, apparently, no sore muscles. In fact, the kids are even up for a relay race and a friendly round of dodgeball after the workout has ended.

“It’s not a competition,” Barnes explains later. “They’re all working together on learning how to move their bodies, have fun with it and be part of a group setting.”

Such fundamentals, she adds, are designed to empower growing kids — not only in the sports they play, but also in their daily activities, whether putting away a heavy toy or taking out an unwieldy bag of trash.

You don’t have to be a CrossFit parent to appreciate that. K

Allison’s summary: What Pixar’s Toy Story did on the big screen, Emily Jenkins’ Toys Go Out does on the page. The early chapter book gives an intriguing glimpse into the secret lives of one girl’s favorite playthings.

The three protagonists are Lumphy, a stuffed buffalo; StingRay, a plush stingray; and Plastic, whose identity is something of a mystery. Each chapter follows them on a new adventure, from visiting a classroom for showand-tell to looking up words in the dictionary. After a mishap with some peanut butter, Lumphy must even face his deep-rooted fear of the washing machine in the basement. At the heart of the story is the three friends’ quest to discover the meaning of life.

Caldecott Medal winner Paul O. Zelinsky contributes whimsical blackand-white illustrations that convey just the right dynamic between these precocious best friends, who just happen to be toys.

librAriAn: meg Allison, teacherlibrarian at moretown Elementary school

WhAT you need: Comfortable gym clothes, such as shorts and a T-shirt, and sneakers.

Why you’ll like it: To me, this is the most perfect chapter book since A.A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh It’s timeless and endearing. Emily Jenkins’ words spill out effortlessly, with such wit and fun, that I honestly don’t know who enjoys them more — the children or the adults reading them. The story truly comes alive when read aloud.

book: Toys Go Out by Emily Jenkins and illustrated by Paul o Zelinsky

Age rAnge: 5 and up

Find more of Allison’s reviews on her blog, madriverlibrarian.blogspot.com.

“The Librarian Likes” features a different librarian and book each month. Got an idea for a future “LL”? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

I soon discover that CrossFit for kids is a different animal — less guerrilla, more monkey.

Jamison McEaney, Kate Thompson, coach Meghan Barnes and Katie Milot

Q oUT To EAT By

cindy morgan

The Knotty Shamrock

my 11-y EAr-old Twins could eat potatoes every day. Fried, baked, mashed, hashed, roasted. They love spuds so much, I joke that our last name should be O’Morgan. So it wasn’t hard to convince them to travel an hour to eat at an Irish pub — in Northfield.

nonplussed with both the entertainment and the menu. Every entrée that struck her fancy — cottage pie, Irish stew, chicken pot pie — included vegetables, ingredients she considers so offensive that no restaurant meal should ever contain them.

She grudgingly settled on the pot

There weren’t many diners on our Thursday-night visit to the Knotty Shamrock — just a few families tucked into booths, a few couples seated at small tables and a few drinkers at the long, old-fashioned bar. The Shamrock is big on dark wood and dim lighting, with just the right amount of Irish kitsch, including carved-wood bathroom signs reading “Lads” and “Lassies.”

My son fell in love with the place as soon as he pushed through the door and saw the TVs tuned in to the Arsenal versus Liverpool soccer match. When he found buffalo wings and French fries on the menu, he was in heaven.

My daughter, however, was

pie, tempted by the puff-pastry top. Because no Irish meal is complete without a potato, she ordered a side of fries. I chose the meatloaf and mashed potatoes. Because no Irish meal is complete without a beer, I ordered a 10-ounce Innis & Gunn on tap.

The food was just what you would expect of pub grub: warm and comforting, with just the right amount of salt and grease. My slab of meatloaf was smothered in a ketchup-based sauce, served on a mound of creamy skins-on mashers — maybe not traditionally Irish, but decadent and delicious. My son’s wings — “hot, but not too hot” — were everything he had hoped for. He sucked off every morsel of meat and sauce.

My daughter perked up when she dunked the puff pastry into the creamy chicken gravy of her pot pie. She left most of the chicken and all of the veggies, but my son was happy to finish them, along with the remains of my meatloaf.

I would have finished every last French fry in the two baskets we ordered, but I restrained myself. Perfectly seasoned, they came straight from the fryer — not too soft and not too crisp — and were a revelation when dipped in the Shamrock’s thick ranch dressing.

Our server, Samantha, turned a good visit into a great one. She delivered our food quickly, brought a stack of napkins with my son’s basket of wings, made sure my daughter had

enough dressing for her fries and didn’t make us wait an eternity for our check. This is the kind of restaurant service I always hope for but rarely get.

The Knotty Shamrock isn’t close enough to be our neighborhood pub — a shame, because it’s everything such an establishment should be. But the next time I crave Irish food and drink with a side of soccer, we’ll gladly make the drive. K

oUr bill for ThrEE: $57.76

Kid-friEndly AmEniTiEs: two high chairs; two booster seats. Kids menu includes burger or cheeseburger, chicken tenders, or grilled cheese, all served with fries for $5.99.

“Out to Eat” is a monthly family-friendly restaurant review. Where should we eat next? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

Julia Passalacqua, 13, of northfield, digs into her meal

GeorGe ruTherford, Burlington

AssisTAnT direcTor of AnnuAl GiVinG, uniVersiTy of VermonT

Sons Jack, 14, and Alec, 13

The most important thing we do is leave them with friends. And we’ve always told them, from when they were babies, “It’s OK. Mommy and Daddy always come back.”

We also tell them, “Mommy and Daddy need some time by themselves, because we love each other and we need to have some time together.” This models a healthy relationship. It helps kids learn that the world doesn’t revolve around them.

As far as camp goes, we go through a checklist — “Here’s what you need for camp.”

It shows the importance of planning and involves them in the process. You can definitely do a checklist for a friend’s house, too — going over the visit mentally and always staying upbeat. You’ve got to exude confidence that everything’s going to be fine. Don’t have any trepidation; don’t have any hesitancy. Just say, “You’re going to have a great time.”

rod lAwrence, grafton

mAnAGemenT consulTAnT

Sons Henry, 19, and Ethan, 16

My sons’ cousins live up in Ontario, and my family would go back and forth quite regularly. The kids would sleep at their grandparents’ or their cousins’ houses, so sleeping someplace that wasn’t their own bedroom was familiar to them. I had a background as a camper, and I started at an early age; I didn’t make a big deal of it when they were considering sleepaway camp. It was advantageous that the boys had each other, so going in they had an ally. Having that familiarity made it a great deal easier.

It’s important to get children to become independent in a way that’s nonthreatening, that’s not a crisis for them. You need to make them see it as a natural thing. Sitting down and having a worried conversation and looking intently into the child’s eyes is, frankly, I think, ridiculous — you’re making it into a big deal.

dAn mAxwell, Burlington

ProjecT mAnAGer, hAllAm-ics

Daughters Clare, 11, and Zoe, 8

I don’t know that we did much for the first night away from home. My daughters kind of drove that themselves. Their first sleepovers were with grandparents. They spent a week at my parents’ house. We called it Camp Nana.

When we were sending the kids away for summer camp, we made sure they had writing materials and letters. You want them to know, “Here’s a whole stack of cards that you can write.” They knew they were going to get mail from us.

You need to be up front with them about what the communication is going to be like. My girls are used to hearing from us every night, but at camp you can’t do that. You need to prep them for that. As it turns out, half the time they’re not even interested in talking with us when they’re at camp. It’s more the thought that they can’t that is different for them.

ed o’hArA, fErriSBurgh

senior underwriTer, AlliAnz GlobAl corPorATe & sPeciAlTy

Daughters Megan, 24, Becca, 20, and Libby, 13

I think I was fortunate in that my daughters were all pretty social and pretty confident, and they wanted to spend the night at friends’ houses or their grandparents’ houses. We may have gotten a call early on — “Will you come get me?” — but I don’t remember that being an issue. I remember my middle daughter, who was going to spend the night at her grandmother’s, telling us to get out of there. She was polite about it.

So as camp came into the picture for my oldest and youngest daughters, they felt comfortable spending a week away from home. Once they spent a week away, it was easier to step into spending a month away. It was a gradual progression. My youngest daughter, who’s 13, was recently accepted into the Camp Dudley at Kiniya program to spend a month in Germany this summer, and she is remarkably excited about that opportunity.

Don’t have any trepidation; don’t have any hesitancy. Just say, “You’re going to have a great time.”

GeorGe ruTherford

Writing Poetry

BY a LI son no V ak

s cissors open and close like “angry alligators” and corn chips are as “salty as the sea” in Janet Bellavance’s second-grade classroom. The 30-year teaching veteran is a big believer in encouraging her students at Burlington’s Edmunds Elementary School to read and write poetry. Consequently, the descriptive language her students have produced over the years is a far cry from your garden-variety “Roses are red / Violets are blue…” sing-song verse.

Bellavance sees poetry as “selfexpression” and “a way to work through things.” No matter your age, she says, poetry “can help you understand yourself and the world.”

As proof, she offers her students’ reaction to Kalli Dakos’ poem “Something Splendid,” about a child who rips off the legs of a spider.

…I looked at those legs

And imagined

How just this morning

They worked

With six other legs,

On a body

That snuggled so close

To the ground

It could probably hear

The earth’s heartbeat…

Some of the kids laughed at the first lines, Bellavance recalls. But then she read further: The students’ expressions changed, and Bellavance could see the poem “take their breath away.”

How do young writers learn to produce such powerful poetry themselves? Local teachers suggest a few different strategies.

In addition to exposing them to good poetry, adults can help them to see the world through the eyes of a poet.

Claire Noble, a first-grade teacher at Burlington’s J.J. Flynn Elementary School, takes her students on a winter walk in the woods at the start of their poetry unit. Kids carry clipboards and

charts to record sensory details such as the quality of light and the “crunch, crunch, crunch” of footsteps on snow so they can incorporate those observations in their poems. When it’s time to sit down and write, Libby Bonesteel, teacher development coordinator for the Essex Town School District, emphasizes word choice. She helps students contrast the way a scientist and a poet would describe a leaf, for example, and encourages students to use a rich vocabulary — or what she calls “delicious words.”

Matt Hajdun, a fifth-grade teacher at Burlington’s Champlain Elementary School, reads free verse aloud to debunk the commonly held belief that poetry must rhyme.

“I tell them that rhyming limits them,” says Hajdun.

All of the teachers stress that kids will be more inclined to write if there’s an audience for their poetry. Last year, Bellavance’s class hung its poems around the school in places where students

wait in line, such as the cafeteria. At the end of Noble’s unit, students dress in black and read their original works at a school event attended by their families. Aziza Malik, a fifth-grade teacher at Champlain Elementary, has organized poetry slams at local coffeehouses, such as Radio Bean and Maglianero. Sharing the beauty of language is important, says Bonesteel. “It gets them engaged and loving words, and that’s what matters most — especially for the very young.” K

local poeTry and wriTing opporTuniTies For Kids:

write now! is a writing group for students in grades 6 through 12 that’s held every first monday of the month, 6:30 p.m., at Burnham memorial Library in colchester. Info, 878-0313.

The young writers project is a nonprofit helping Vermont and new hampshire students write, improve their skills and find an audience. Info, youngwritersproject.org.

high schoolers recite acclaimed literature at the poetry out loud state competition, held on wednesday, march 13, at the Barre opera house. the semifinals take place at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.; finals begin at 4 p.m. admission is free. Info, 828-3291.

“The Art of” spotlights creative skills that enrich kids’ lives. Got a class or teacher to recommend? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

matthew thorsen

I tell them that rhyming limits them.

maTT Hajdun

Janet Bellavance with her secondgrade class

BECAUSE

PROJECT

The Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation supports statewide prevention programs for children and families to help give all kids a fair chance at success.

BECAUSE

The Because Project asks Vermonters to share their stories about people and experiences that have shaped their lives, especially during their formative years — stories that may inspire others to get involved. Because together we can all make a di erence.

Strictly speaking, Aunt Ida wasn’t a relative. In my childhood, it was proper for young people to address all older women as “aunt.” But she was as close as family. She was the earliest formative influence I can identify and probably the first person I met in this world after my parents brought me home from Rutland Hospital.

“Home” was Aunt Ida’s house. I didn’t realize until much later that we were her tenants.

Fact is, she was more like a grandmother than a landlady. She was in her seventies when I was born. The door separating our apartments was never closed.

I can remember peeking in to see her sitting in her padded rocking chair by the window, black shoes on a footstool, rectangular magnifying glass poised above her as she read — a newspaper, a letter, a book or the Bible.

She’d look up, smile and invite me to the “Davenport.” We’d sit side by side while she read to me. On sunny days, we’d likely sit on the porch — the “piazza,” she called it — in matching rockers. There, she taught me the names of the birds, showing me how to describe my surroundings. The birds were everywhere, like flying flowers. I remember telling her that the bluebirds looked like robins, colored wrong.

As easily as she ingrained words and stories into my life, Aunt Ida demonstrated to me what being a true Vermonter was all about.

Ida May Fuller was born in 1874 on a farm right there in Ludlow and went to school with Calvin Coolidge. She was a teacher until 1905, though she was still teaching when I knew her, politely and often humorously correcting me. (“You ought to really know grammar,” she joked before giving me the scoop on split infinitives.)

With the money she saved, she went to Boston to study business. Then, from 1905 until she retired in 1939, she worked as a legal secretary for John G. Sargent, who would become attorney general in the Coolidge administration.

She never touched co ee or tea, preferring a cup of hot water with her meals. She never raised her voice nor appeared to be angry or confused about anything. She could quote the Bible but didn’t. Instead, she quietly lived and taught the principles of Jesus. “He’s as much alive now as he ever was,” she once told me.

And she never married. Those who didn’t call her Aunt Ida addressed her as Miss Fuller. Everyone knew she was independent; some might have said she was ahead of her time, but she wouldn’t have gone along with that.

Aunt Ida achieved some unexpected local notoriety when she was invited to appear on the television show “I’ve Got a Secret” with Garry Moore. Her secret? She was the first person in America to be issued a Social Security check, number 00-000-001.

She emphatically refused to be on the show, though. It wasn’t that she didn’t want her secret known, just that the show’s sponsor was a tobacco company and smoking was against her principles. Aunt Ida never smoked nor owned a television.

She was 100 years old when she died, in 1975.

While many things led me to become a writer, Aunt Ida was a very potent part of the alchemy. She taught me about the world, a thing or two about women, and the best things about Vermont and Vermonters — principle and independence — all from her sofa, her piazza and her heart.

A. CITRO, AUTHOR

I’ve spent the last 30 years writing about Vermont and Vermonters in part

of Ida May Fuller.

Joe Citro, as a child, with Ida May Fuller

WHAT’S IN YOUR "GO BAG"?

TEACHER ID TAG SO EMERGENCY-RESPONSE TEAMS KNOW WHO'S IN CHARGE

SNACKS TO REFUEL IN CASE OF A LONG DELAY

WALKIE-TALKIE FOR COMMUNICATION WITH STAFF AND RESCUE TEAMS

FIRST-AID SUPPLIES & STUDENT EMERGENCY MEDICAL INFORMATION

BOOK & ACTIVITY CARDS TO HELP PASS THE TIME

BLANKET OR TARP FOR WARMTH & SHELTER

SAFETY VEST FOR EASY VISIBILITY

Are Vermont schools prepared for shootings or other emergencies?

by Ken Picard

Reading, Writing & Readiness

Something was up at Bellows Free Academy in Fairfax. As I walked up to the school on a recent Friday at 10:23 a.m., an alarm was sounding, but no kids were rushing out, as they would have for a fire drill.

Only one exterior door was unlocked; I went inside. From there, I reached a second set of doors. One yielded, so I let myself in.

The school was eerily deserted. More than 1000 people were in the building, but there were no signs of life. The main office was dark, locked and shuttered. I tried to go down one hall, but locked double doors barred my way. I tried another door but it was also secured. Isolated between them, I couldn’t go any farther.

A woman with a clipboard approached me and asked, suspiciously, “Who are you? How did you get in here?”

It was Sally Billado, an accounting clerk at BFA-Fairfax who also serves on the school’s safety committee. Evidently, all exterior doors into the building were supposed to have been secured during this “clear the halls” drill and school-wide lockdown. After I explained I was a reporter researching a story on school-security procedures, Billado made a note of my presence on her clipboard.

Minutes later, we heard “All clear!” over the PA system, and the school quickly returned to normal. The halls filled with loud, boisterous children, seemingly unfazed by what they were rehearsing for.

Long before the deadly school shooting last December at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. — and even before the Columbine High School massacre in 1999 — districts all over Vermont have been preparing for disasters, both natural and man-made.

By law, every school in the state is required to have a comprehensive emergency plan and to hold drills monthly. Those that don’t can be fined $500.

But the rules stop there: Schools aren’t required to consult the Vermont School Crisis Guide, a detailed disaster-planning handbook that is considered one of the best in the country. As with many aspects of K-12 education in Vermont, it’s up to local districts and school boards to decide how to allocate their resources.

That makes it difficult to get a comprehensive overview of statewide preparedness. Vermont’s emergency-management professionals say that while many districts are well ahead of the nation, others are still playing catch up. They warn that those officials who aren’t taking these risks seriously are operating under a false assumption that tragedies like Sandy Hook and Columbine could never happen in their schools.

drill, baby, drill

BFA-Fairfax is known as the “Home of the Bullets” — a reference not to the proximity of weapons manufacturer Century International Arms, but to the 1950s TV show “Superman,” whose superhero was “faster than a speeding bullet.” School officials there are working hard to ensure that their mascot is never grimly ironic.

“We’re stepping up our game,” affirms K-8 principal Tom Walsh, who says students and staff can now clear the halls in 15 seconds before “dropping the locks” on every door. A few years ago, Fairfax hired a New Hampshire consulting firm to review the building for safety. Since the school has 26 potential entry points for an intruder, the consultant recommended installing magnetic door locks, ID swipe cards and alarms.

During the drill I witnessed, one of those magnetic locks failed to shut properly, which is how I got in. That became a subject of discussion at the postdrill debriefing with the school’s safety committee and emergency responders.

Ned Kirsch, superintendent of schools for Franklin West Supervisory Union, supervised the drill and understands its importance all too well. He was the principal at Essex Middle School when, on August 24, 2006, a gunman walked into nearby Essex Elementary School and opened fire, killing one teacher. The shooting happened before school was in session, so no students were in the building at the time.

“Practice is what you need to do,” says Kirsch. “This drill is nothing new. We’ve been doing it for years, and we learn something new each time.”

It was a similar drill that prevented more people from getting injured during the 2006 Essex school shooting, according to Leo Nadeau. The former Essex police chief notes that, during that shooting, teachers and staff were following procedures they had practiced:

They evacuated the building and moved to a secure location.

Nadeau, who’s now retired from law enforcement, is often credited with putting schoolcrisis preparedness on the radar in Vermont. In 1996, he was appointed vice chair of Essex’s emergency-management office. At the time, his biggest concern was the potential for a catastrophic train accident in Essex Junction, which has 11 railroad crossings and nearly 4000 schoolchildren.

He pulled together all of Essex’s emergencyservices directors, as well as school administrators, nurses, guidance counselors and other district staff and began holding school-safety meetings.

Then, in 1999, just prior to the Columbine shooting, Essex experienced a rash of bomb threats, Nadeau recalls. Emergency planners and school officials around Vermont quickly realized that they needed a coordinated and universal approach to school safety. From those discussions came the Vermont School Crisis Planning Team, an all-volunteer committee of law enforcement, emergency management, mental health and education experts on which Nadeau still serves.

The VSCPT revises and updates the Vermont School Crisis Guide. According to those who have worked on it, the guide incorporates some of the latest strategies in school-crisis management, including lessons the U.S. Secret Service learned from interviews with school-shooting survivors.

Despite its depressing subject matter, the guide should be required reading not only for faculty, administrators and school-board members, but for parents, too. It details exactly how school personnel should respond to various threats, such as an active shooter, a bioterrorism attack, a hostage crisis or a riot — even severe weather or the death of a student.

The guide describes how school officials

At BFA-Fairfax, students and staff can now clear the halls in 15 seconds before “dropping the locks” on every door.

should notify parents, speak to the press or report a bomb threat to the FBI, and it includes instructions for a classroom emergency kit — see cut-out poster, page 18. It also covers planning for recovery in the days and weeks that follow.

The state stops short of requiring school administrators and local emergency responders to use the guide, but urges them to adopt it and tailor it to the specific needs of their school or district. Not surprisingly, some face unique circumstances that make crisis response challenging.

small, RuRal schools sTRuggle

Linda Kelley is principal of the pre-K through 12 Rochester School, which has 150 students and a staff of 40 divided between two buildings. Kelley, who arrived at the school last summer, recently held a breakfast meeting with parents and other community members who wanted to discuss school safety. As she expected, the meeting was very well attended.

Since Rochester doesn’t have its own police force, and only a volunteer fire department and EMS squad, the town relies on the Vermont State Police for its law-enforcement coverage. That means it could take as long as 45 minutes for cops to arrive on the scene of a school shooting.

Moreover, she says, the Rochester School is located in a mountainous area, where cellphone service is spotty. The school has a PA system, but it can’t be heard in every room of both buildings. There are a few video cameras, but not enough to cover all the entrances. A limited number of two-way radios are not always effective due to the terrain.

One big concern expressed by parents, Kelley reports, is this: What would happen if children had to evacuate the building in the middle of winter? Most would not have time to get their

hats, coats and gloves. The nearest shelter is at least a quarter mile away — a considerable walk, especially for the youngest students. As Kelley puts it, “The small things that once seemed unimportant are now becoming important to people.”

Charles Johnson, Vermont’s Safe Schools coordinator, travels around the state helping schools address a wide variety of potential threats, from bullying to ice storms, drug use to firearms. Johnson points out that in Vermont, it’s impossible to have a one-size-fits-all approach to school safety. A place like the Rochester School, for example, has a very different culture, community and list of challenges than, say, Essex High School.

It’s worth noting, for example, that the vast majority of Vermont schools either aren’t large enough or cannot afford a school resource officer. SROs are sworn police officers assigned to the district either full or part time. Currently, there are just 46 SROs statewide, but according to corporal Mark Moody, who oversees the Vermont Youth Officers Network, school interest in hiring more “has begun to catch fire” in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook tragedy.

But not everywhere.

“In one town, the school-board members feel that Sandy Hook won’t happen here. Or we don’t need police at the door as they have at other schools,” Johnson reports.

In another part of the state, Johnson got a call from a parent complaining that she couldn’t get detailed answers on what her district was doing to prepare for a potential shooting, only vague assurances from the principal that “We’re responding adequately.”

In yet another

district, a principal told Johnson that many of his students have special needs, including anxiety disorders, and “wouldn’t do well” in a lockdown drill.

agree — as do the feds. Just days after the Newtown shooting, Vermont Emergency Management got a call from the Department of Homeland Security in Washington, D.C. Officials there were looking for copies of the Vermont School Crisis Guide to send to states seeking guidance. The document is now also on the Vermont Emergency Management website. The benefits of public access apparently outweigh the risk it might end up in the wrong hands.

How did Johnson respond?

You are educators, he reminded the principal, so teach your kids how to be safe without frightening them.

Generally speaking, “I think we are probably better off than most places in the country,” Johnson says of Vermont’s level of preparedness.

The state’s emergency planners

But local emergency offices emphasize that all the planning documents and safety equipment in the world won’t do a thing if administrators, teachers and parents don’t take these simulations seriously and practice them enough so they become second nature.

BFA-Fairfax has accomplished that. And Superintendent Kirsch is not alone in hoping its “clear the halls” routine never becomes more than just a drill. K

School Safety Homework

for Parents & Educators

first, read the Vermont School Crisis Guide, available online at vem.vermont.gov/community_preparedness/school_crisis. the appendix includes a list of 10 steps schools can take right away to improve emergency preparedness. among them:

• Form a public-safety committee if one doesn’t already exist.

• Review safety procedures and policies.

• Buy two-way radios and cellphones and know how to use them.

• Learn — and use — universally recognized emergency commands, such as “clear the halls,” “shelter in place,” “evacuate the building” and “relocate.”

parents are also urged to talk to their principals about where they should go in the event of an actual emergency. in most cases, emergency responders urge parents not to go directly to the school, as they can block access for emergency vehicles and put themselves or others in harm’s way. finally, ask lots of questions — and demand answers. if you feel your school isn’t doing enough to plan for a crisis, notify the Vermont department of education and/or Vermont emergency Management. using the state’s Vermont School Crisis Guide isn’t mandatory, but planning for the unthinkable is.

By law, every school in Vermont is required to have a comprehensive emergency plan and to hold monthly drills.

Deployment Diaries

THE U.S. HAS BEEN AT WAR for more than 11 years now.

Hundreds of thousands of soldiers from all over the country have been sent overseas to serve since October of 2001.

Matt Lehman, a first lieutenant in the Vermont Air National Guard, is one of them. He deployed earlier this year, leaving his wife, Tasha, and their three boys behind.

Tasha has been writing about the experience for Kids VT. Her “Use Your Words” essay in the February issue described how the family prepared for Matt’s departure, and her “Diaries of a Vermont Military Family” series on our blog has chronicled their ongoing challenges and triumphs.

We’re grateful, and honored, that she’s sharing her family’s journey with us.

Here are a few excerpts from her blog posts. Read more at kidsvt.com.

— CATHY RESMER, EXECUTIVE EDITOR

A Vermont military family faces life on the home front

BY TASHA LEHMAN

The Things, They Are A-Breakin’

Every book I’ve read and seasoned military wife I’ve talked to has told me the same thing: “Everything will break the day after he leaves.” I sco ed at such a notion. Sure, something is bound to go wrong along the way, but let’s not get dramatic.

Life has a funny way of putting you in your place.

Just a few days before my husband, Matt, was set to deploy, a random, unexpected windstorm blew in. A tree fell on our house. I woke up to a loud crack, a boom and screaming children. Yep. A tree. On our house. I

moment and during the next day, when the tree was being removed. I

all the grocery shopping and errands done. I try to start my van with my remote car starter. The engine doesn’t turn. Strange. I kiss the car starter and pray for the magic to happen. Turns out, even a desperate kiss can’t warm up the frozen heart of a vehicle when it is -10°F. I trek out to the van to try to start it myself.

Click. Click. Click. Nothing.

It’s too cold, I decide. It just needs a jump. Easy fix! You won’t get me today, curse! I walk up and down the street to find a neighbor to give me a jump. No one is home. My neighbors are always home. But not today.

I Instagram a picture of my plight (because that’s the natural thing to do when in distress) and a friend hears my cry for help. He finds that not only is my battery dead, it’s like ...

dead-dead. Long story short: Several frozen fingers and the cost of a new battery later, my van is running again.

Over the next couple of weeks, more goes terribly awry. We lose heat. A pipe freezes. Two days later, no hot water. The next day, the smoke detectors in every single room of the house go o and won’t stop.

Shall I go on?

I’m not sure if things are really breaking more often than usual or if I’m just noticing it more since my in-house handyman is out of town.

Week One

the roof.

The deployment curse had begun. And there was no stopping it.

Day One goes o without a hitch. It’s our

I enjoy the day despite the growing loneliness in my heart.

Day Two. I get the kids on the bus. I’m excited to get

It’s only been a week since Matt deployed. I was doing the laundry, feeling fine — just another day at home. As I pulled dirty clothes from the basket in our bedroom, I found some of his. I lifted out the shirt he wore the day before he left. I held it up to my nose and inhaled every last breath my lungs would allow. Again.

It’s amazing how scent can trigger

your mind. I was instantly holding him again. The tears flowed freely as I clutched the one piece of physical evidence of him that remained in the house. I couldn’t bring myself to wash it. I still have it lying on my bed. His scent is starting to fade from the shirt, but I keep it there anyway.

Bedtime at My House

I tucked my son in tonight. He cried. I cried. It’s become a regular thing, this crying at bedtime. With Daddy deployed, there are a hundred reasons

It’s so easy to take this life for granted, to forget, to complain. Just once in your day, could you do me a favor? Could you stop and imagine bedtime at my house and those of thousands of other families like ours across the country? Could you say a prayer for us?

Staying Busy: The Key to Surviving Deployment

The weekends are definitely the hardest on me. The days just seem to last forever. What used to be a couple of

very busy that we collapse into bed by the end of the day.

My biggest tool in doing so has been the Kids VT events calendar. I can keep track of what’s happening around our area with ease, and, man, has it made a di erence! Events we have been able to take advantage of: Free Pancake Day at IHOP, the YMCA Sports Night Out and life-size Candy Land at the University Mall.

We are also very involved with local events provided specifically for military kids. Our biggest resource

I Want You!

I love those old “I Want You!” Uncle Sam posters. His pointed finger follows me around the room. He’s always pointing at me. He really does want me!

When my husband was considering joining the Vermont Air National Guard, it was a family decision. This choice would change our lives. He’s not the only one who joined the military; we all did.

We all have a choice in this country. It’s a pretty fantastic benefit of living

to shed a tear during lights out. Mix in being tired, overstimulated and coming down o of that too-manycookies-for-dessert sugar high and

you have a meltdown cocktail. And that’s just me. My poor son has his own problems.

I don’t believe many people think about military families on an everyday basis and what we go through during deployment. It’s truly a di cult experience. Our loved ones are thousands of miles away serving in the mili-

days of family fun time has somehow turned into me just surviving until Monday morning. And I do not like it at all. So I made a plan to intention-

ally make our weekends so

is a UVM Extension Program called Operation: Military Kids. They hold events all over the state at no cost to us. Thanks to OMK and their community volunteers, our kids can connect with others who understand exactly what they are going through — while having a fantastic time. Last weekend we did some printmaking in Waterbury. We met other military families and talked about how art can help us relay our feelings and

Our military families also have the opportunity to be involved with local programs and businesses for free. We are currently able to apply for a free membership at the YMCA and ski at almost all of the local ski resorts for free or at a discount. Many local restaurants o er a military discount as well. Thanks to all of you who make us military families feel so loved and supported!

in the grand USA. We can choose what we want to be. My husband chose to be an Air Force engineer. I chose to be a stay-at-home mom. I then chose to use my open schedule to support fellow military families.

You have a choice, too. You may choose a di erent path in life. I hope you follow your dreams as we have followed ours. Can I tell you something, though?

We want you!

Don’t worry. We don’t want you to put on a uniform or head overseas. We simply want you to know that, just as much as this country needs the men and women of the military, we need you. We need you to support us. We need you to think of us.

If you’ve ever shaken the hand of a military member or a veteran and said, “Thank you for your service,” you made our day. If you shoveled the sidewalk of a woman who has a deployed spouse, you did your job. If you bring a meal to a husband whose wife is away for training, you made us proud.

We want you. We need you! Make us proud.

Continue following Tasha and her family on their journey on the Kids VT blog, at kidsvt.com. Her blog posts appear there weekly.

It’s become a regular thing, this crying at bedtime. With Daddy deployed, there are a hundred reasons to shed a tear.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TASHA LEHMAN

2013 Summer CampS

June 24-28: Camp regal’s Got Talent

July 8-12: Disney

July 15-19: Hollywood

July 22-26: Gone Country

July 29-aug 2: Fantastic Gymnastics

august 5-9: Jungle Safari

august 12-16: On Broadway

august 19-23: Hawaiian Luau

Each theme week will offer gymnastics, arts and craft projects, outdoor play, fun activities and a SHOW on the stage of our two story castle every Friday. Two snacks and lunch provided 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Extended hours available.

CAMP GUIDE 2013

Enchantment Camp

Fantasy fans of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry can sign up for the next best thing. Children’s-book author Alison James and her husband, Joplin, a kindergarten teacher, created their day camp after the release of the seventh and final Harry Potter book in 2007. It’s a refuge for those über-creative kids who love imaginary play.

The couple didn’t have access to sprawling, lakeside grounds bordered by a Forbidden Forest, so they conjured an alternate reality that’s literally right in their own backyard. The “lessons” at Enchantment Camp vary from session to session. Campers can study the art of communicating with wild and tame animals in “Animagic” class, or pick up a wand and chant incantations in “Spellcasting and Potions.”

Those who prefer their magic grounded in real-world cultural heritage can call on the power of ancient Shinto gods and goddesses in “Magic and Mystery of Ancient Japan.” That week, campers paint powerful words in Japanese calligraphy with rubbed ink and brushes, create a stab-bound spellbook and learn the history behind traditional magic words and sounds. Spellcasting and lessons in potions and herbology creep into most curricula.

There’s a daily game of Quidditch, too.

“Everything we do is for real up until the point where we don’t know how to do it,” Alison James explains. “We use real herbs that can actually heal during herbology and learn the Latin for the spells we might cast.”

All the sessions conclude with a test — James calls it “a silly exam about what you’ve learned about magic where you can only earn positive points” — but mastery of the curricula isn’t the objective. Enchantment Camp aims to exercise kids’ imaginations.

“On the surface, we teach playful imaginary and practical magic,” she says. “But on the underside, we’re teaching a lot of soul skills to help kids get in tune with their own powers.”

Thrills and Skills

Come June, everyone will be tired of being cooped up in a classroom. But the learning doesn’t have to stop just because school’s out for summer. Vermont is home to dozens of specialized camps where kids can keep honing their skills — and have fun in the process.

BY LINDSAY J. WESTLEY

Day camps for ages 7 and up. Weeklong sessions on different themes run from June through August at 338 Thompson Road, Shelburne. $295-585. Info, 985-1124, enchantmentcamps.com.

To help you plan your child’s summer adventures, we picked five niche programs that illustrate the wide range of options. At these camps, kids can learn to turn flips, sail a keelboat, ride a horse, write computer programs or play Quidditch. Read on to find out how.

Some Vermont camps o er more than just a few weeks in the woods

Enchantment Camp in Shelburne

Lake Champlain Community Sailing Center Summer Sailing Camps

Most Vermont kids will stand on the shores of Lake Champlain at some point and admire the view. But those whose families don’t own boats have few opportunities to get out on the water — unless they get involved with the Lake Champlain Community Sailing Center.

The LCCSC o ers access to dinghies and keelboats — and instruction — through its suite of sailing programs. Kids as young as 6 can enroll in a half-day camp for “little guppies,” or sign up for full-day sessions. Campers progress from introductory lessons to more advanced instruction. More experienced skippers might be ready for the Summer Race Program.

“If somebody really wants to get into the sport of sailing, then this is definitely the gateway,” says Colin Davis, operations director at LCCSC. “Beginners get a thorough introduction, and then everyone gets out there and is actively involved. The independence is a big part of the appeal — you’re out there driving your own boat, and you’re in charge. That’s a really unique aspect for most of these kids.”

LCCSC also teams up with local organizations to run multi-activity camps for kids who want a taste of sailing without an intensive, weeklong commitment. Those campers sail in the morning, then spend their afternoons playing tennis, skateboarding, cooking, learning scuba skills, creating works of art or climbing at Petra Cli s. The only prerequisite for any of the sailing camps: Kids must demonstrate they’re comfortable in the water by completing a 50-yard swim with the aid of a personal-flotation device.

Getting kids out on the water can change the way they see their lives on land, noted LCCSC executive director Kate Neubauer last August, in an episode of the web-video series “Stuck in Vermont.” “It’s the most amazing thing to watch a group of students come out on the water and have them ask, ‘Where are we?’ And you say, ‘That’s your home, that’s your town — that’s Burlington.’ And in that split second, their perspectives change.”

Day camp for kids ages 6 to 15. Weeklong sessions run from June through August at 234 Penny Lane, Burlington. $185-650. Info, 864-2499, communitysailingcenter.org.

Young Hacks Academy

“It’s either program or be programmed,” says Thomas Bacon, a Colchester dad who’s launching a new camp for aspiring computer programmers this summer. “Kids are so comfortable with computers but not many have any knowledge about what goes into those programs,” he says. “We want to give them the know-how to give commands right back to the computer.”

Bacon is founder and CEO of Brick Oven Media, which creates interactive and entertaining ways to open a dialogue between brands and consumers. He also built a Gooroo Facebook app for 2010 Vermont gubernatorial candidate Matt Dunne. But though his

Fell-Vallee Equestrian Center Summer Riding Camp

Few kids escape childhood without falling in love with horses. A week at this Hinesburg riding camp is a good gauge of whether it’s a passing phase or full-on equestrian relationship. Kids learn to brush, tack up and ride — and muck out stalls, too.

Dressage trainer Jamie Fell, her daughter, Liz, and breeding specialist Joan Lavallee run this day camp at the 240-acre Fell-Vallee Equestrian Center, which also o ers riding lessons, training and boarding options. With a limit of eight riders per session, the program caters to each participant’s previous riding experience through group and individual attention.

“Beginners and more advanced riders are generally divided into di erent groups according to skill level,” Liz Fell says. That means that “gutsy 7-year-olds who can walk, trot and canter” might end up grouped with older, less experienced riders, rather than with others their own age. “We like to sort kids out naturally once we see them ride,” she says.

Fell and her team place an emphasis on equine safety and basic riding skills, but there’s also time to play hide-and-seek in the hay barn or compete in games on horseback. Parents attend a final horse show on the last day, when riders play “musical hay bales” — they ride around until the music stops, then get o and back on their horses.

“Everyone is encouraged to move at their own pace,” Fell says. “Some of our brand-new beginners are o the lunge line and ready to trot by the end of the week, and some need a little extra encouragement to get out of the walk. Our horses really take care of those kids.”

Day camp for kids ages 5 to 14, with a special camp for 5- to 7-year-olds in mid-July. Four-day camps run from June through August at Fell-Vallee Equestrian Center, 173 Taproot Farm Lane, Hinesburg. $295. Info, 482-4393, fell-vallee.weebly.com.

background is in online media and advertising, he calls educational reform “a real obsession.” That’s why he’s teamed up with fellow local dad Justin Siegel, cofounder and CEO of gaming company JNJ Mobile, to do his part.

Young Hacks Academy focuses on problem solving and programming. It’s set up to mimic secret-agent training: Campers go on daily “missions” to solve and crack codes. “We wanted to apply a little more context to it than just sitting in front of a computer,” Bacon notes. “That tends to be pretty dry for a kid.”

The camp enrolls 10- to 12-yearolds; Bacon points out that’s when most kids learn long division, a useful algorithmic skill for programming. Campers don’t need any special training or prerequisites to participate, though. Bacon and Siegel are hoping to

reach a general audience — not just the sons and daughters of computer programmers.

The young hacks — or “agents,” as they’ll be known during the week of camp — will use a drag-and-drop visual learning environment called Scratch, specifically developed by Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Media Lab to allow beginners to program their own interactive stories and animations. An eight-to-one ratio of campers to instructors provides enough face time for kids to emerge with concrete programming skills.

“Justin and I wanted to help supplement what kids are already learning in school,” Bacon says. “When we give them the tools to program and give commands, we’re enabling them to be adventurous and step outside the preprogrammed space.”

Day camp for kids ages 10 to 12. Two separate weeklong sessions run from July 8 to 19 at Colchester High School, 131 Laker Lane. $295-345. Info, 999-7092, younghacksacademy.com.

“TDI

For

dunkley’s Gymnastics camp

If Gabby Douglass and the Fierce Five got your little one interested in flipping, tumbling and trampoline stunts, it might be time for a session at this family-run sleepaway camp in South Hero.

Its founder, the late Tom Dunkley, was a professional gymnast and coach who created the University of Vermont’s first men’s gymnastics team; USA Gymnastics dubbed him “the father of Vermont gymnastics.”

He fathered kids, too — his daughter, Ruth Dunkley McGowan, now carries on his legacy. Ruth is a coach, gymnast and a judge for the Junior Olympic Program. As a small child, she performed on a trampoline with her father and sister in front of President Eisenhower and Saudi Arabia’s King Saud. She runs Dunkley’s with her husband, Dan McGowan.

Ruth Dunkley McGowan says her father started the summer camp because he loved coaching others. “He decided he was going to buy this old fishing camp, and turned it into a family-style summer camp in 1972,” she says.

Today, Dunkley’s offers USAG safety-certified instruction that’s custom-tailored for all skill levels. Campers practice flips outdoors on a

40-foot tumble trampoline, a 60-foot spring strip and a 30-foot tumbling mat, all situated on the shores of picturesque Lake Champlain.

When it rains, everyone heads indoors to the “baby gym,” which is tricked out with a spring floor and Olympic-level equipment.

In the early days, recalls McGowan, the camp focused strictly on gymnastics. But that’s changed over the years.

“Some campers spend all day working at gymnastics,” she says, “and others hit the water as soon as the morning training sessions are over.”

In fact, McGowan’s own daughters act as waterfront directors, overseeing the kayaking, sailing, tubing and swimming that lure campers away from the mats and beams each afternoon. Woodworking, martial arts and cooking lessons also provide balance.

The camp accommodates everyone from beginners to USAG Level 9 competitors. To avoid sore muscles in the first few days, McGowan recommends that kids who aren’t actively training start a basic fitness routine before camp starts. K

Overnight camp for girls ages 7 to 17, with a coed camp from July 21 through August

1. One-, two- or multi-week options run from June through August at 35 Kibbe Point Rd., South Hero. $700-1300. Info, 899-3479, dunkleysgymnasticscamp.com.

adventure

Camp Dates:

June 17 - August 2

Age Groups:

Rangers: 5-6

Trailblazers: 7-8

Vikings: 9-11

Field Trips Include: Daily Activities: swimming sports & games arts & crafts water games and more!

GUIDE 2013

MUSIC DAY CAMP

JUNE 24-28, 2013

8:45 am – 4 pm daily with 2:30 pm concert on June 28 Explore a great variety of musical activities with some of the best music educators in Vermont.

For more info or to register: www.vyo.org

Band students woodwind, brass, percussion must be entering grades 6-10 in Fall 2013 Orchestra students string players must be entering grades 4-10 in Fall 2013

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.

Tuition: $290

Early Registration Discount: $270 with full payment by April 15

Celebrating our 50th Anniversary during the 2013-14 season!

The VYOA provides exceptional performance experiences for your instrumentalists and vocalists in a supportive community. We aim to offer placements within our range of ensembles to every quali ed student who auditions.

Orchestral Auditions: Open to musicians currently in grades 3-11. One year playing experience recommended. All are welcome.

Choral Auditions: Open to vocalists currently in grades 4-11.

schedule an audition.

R E GIS TER BY June 1, 2013 Financial Aid available

MARCH CALENDAR

Flower Power

Spring isn’t in the air quite yet, but the season blooms early at the VERMONT FLOWER SHOW Families explore “The Road Not Taken,” a fantastical living landscape inspired by the less-traveled paths made famous by Vermont poet Robert Frost. Stop and smell the roses while wandering past a replica of Frost’s woodland cabin or an urban brownstone covered in vines. Kids inspired by their surroundings can plant seeds in the Blue Ribbon Pavilion’s Family Room, also home to an extensive toy-train display and entertainment by Robert & Gigi and No Strings Marionette Company.

VERMONT FLOWER SHOW: Friday, March 1, and Saturday, March 2, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, March 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction. All ages. $3-15; free for children under 3; $30 weekend pass. Info, 425-5117. greenworksvermont.org

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SPOTLIGHTS AND LISTINGS BY CAROLYN FOX

See “First with Kids” videos at FletcherAllen.org/firstwithkids.

March calendar

1 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

crafternoon: Little art lovers make a hands-on masterpiece from M&Ms. South Burlington Community Library, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Homeschoolers Knitting Group: Stay-at-home learners hang with peers as they improve their needlework. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3-4:15 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4095.

community

milton’s 250th Birthday celebration: Residents of this Chittenden County town help mark a milestone at a ceremony with refreshments. Vermont Statehouse, Montpelier, 9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4922.

Vermont Flower show: Fascinating displays of flora explore “The Road Not Taken,” the forgotten wonders of the natural world and the discovery of less-traveled places. See calendar spotlight on page 33. All ages. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $3-15; free for children under 3; $30 weekend pass. Info, 425-5117.

Classes

dance

First Friday Family dance: A wholesome evening of live music and dancing ends with a song circle. All ages. Worcester Town Hall, 6:30-9:30 p.m. $5-12. Info, 229-0173.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: Fans of cocoacovered confectionery experience the tempering and dipping process. All ages. Laughing Moon Chocolates, Stowe, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 253-9591.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: Basketball-loving high school students spend the afternoon dribbling, shooting and scoring. St. Albans City Hall, 2:30-3:45 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

dancin’ With my Baby: Rock, reggae, pop and hip-hop inspire movement in parents and young dancers. Ages 6 weeks-preschool. Windancer Movement Center, Middlebury, 10-11:15 a.m. $12. Info, 388-3381.

Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment gives tumblers a chance to run free. Ages 7 and under. YMCA,

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

Preschool “Frart”! French & Art come

Alive!: Using movement, visual art and play, you and your little one will learn French songs, phrases and participate in an exciting art project each week! Ooh la la! Join in and let your imagination soar! Weekly on Fri., Mar. 15-Apr. 19, 11 a.m.-noon. Cost: $125 w/ adult. Location: wingspan Studio, 4 Howard St., Burlington. Info: 233-7676, wingspanpaintingstudio.com.

school spring Vacation Break camp African Art & Language: Do you know how many different countries are in Africa? You’ll learn French and make art in this camp focused on the rich and diverse continent of Africa. Explore cultures, creatures and geographies through art projects, including watercolors, acrylic painting, mud-cloth creation and map making! Allons-y! Ages 5+. Apr. 22-26, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Cost: $300 incl. all materials and healthy snacks. Aftercare avail. Location: wingspan Studio, 4 Howard St., Burlington. Info: 233-7676, wingspanpaintingstudio.com.

summer camps: University of Possibilities, Explore! create! Thrive!: Six sessions to choose from connecting art, nature and academics. wingspan Studio is a beautiful working studio led by educator, professional artist and fluent French speaker Maggie Standley. Join in and let your imagination soar! See website for more info. Location: wingspan Studio, 4 Howard St., Burlington. Info: 233-7676, wingspanpaintingstudio.com.  Victory Basketball Academy: For boys and girls grades 2 to 10. Run by Matt Luneau (varsity boys’ basketball coach at Enosburg Falls High School) and llze Luneau (basketball performer, basketballfamily. com). Location: Central Vermont Catholic School, Barre, once a week for 1 hr. and Enosburg High School 3 times/week for 1 hr. Mar. through May. Info: godsvision.net, 315-952-5005.

music Together With Joanna may: Music Together® is a family music and movement program for kids (birth-5) and the grownups who love them! Come sing, explore instruments, move and groove in a fun, supportive environment: 2 CDs and songbook included. 10-week spring session

starts Apr. 2. Multiple locations: Jericho Community Center, Richmond Free Library and Huntington Public Library. Info: Register online at musictogetherjmay.com or try a FREE demo class!

Painting, mixed media & sculpture, Ages 5-7: Come paint, draw, print and sculpt while engaging in a variety of creative activities. Different themes and media will be explored each week. Themes will include abstract, realistic and imaginary imagery. Different styles of art and artists will be introduced.

Weekly on Mon., Mar. 11-Apr. 8, 3-4:30 p.m.

Cost: $110. Location: Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: 253-8358, helenday. com.

Painting, mixed media & sculpture, Ages 8-10: Come paint, draw, print and sculpt while engaging in a variety of creative activities. Different themes and media will be explored each week. Themes will include abstract, realistic and imaginary imagery. Different styles of art and artists will be introduced. Weekly on Thur., Mar. 14-Apr. 11, 3-5 p.m. Cost: $110. Location: Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: 253-8358, helenday.com.

Art & movement, session i: Trace, glue, cut, paint, play, build, laugh and explore the amazing world of visual art. Your child will create from their imagination and develop observation skills, as well as practice verbalizing what they see. Children will also explore their bodies in playful movement games. Ages 4-12. Weekly on Wed., Mar. 13-Apr. 10, 1-2:30 p.m. Cost: $95. Location: Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: 253-8358, helenday.com.

Paste Papers saturday Workshop: Finger paintings grew up to become Paste Papers! Using a paste-and-paint mixture, students will make their own decorative papers. Brushes, combs, sticks, trowels, etc. are our tools for making patterns and designs in the “goop.” Once dry, this paper can be used for anything from book covers and cards to backgrounds for your drawings, paintings and photographs! Ages 4-12. Sat., Mar. 30, 9:30 a.m.-noon. Cost: $25. Info: 253-8358, helenday.com. K

Burlington, 10:30 a.m.noon. $5-8 per family. Info, 862-8993.

Friday Night ski & dine: Kids and adults work up an appetite on illuminated slopes. Lessons available for beginners. Cochran’s Ski Area, Richmond, 5-8 p.m. $5 lift tickets; $5-10 dinner; $25 lesson. Info, 434-2479.

community

dr. First videos

“First with Kids” at Fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Kids open Gymnastics: Tykes tumble and jump while adults connect with other families. Snacks provided.

Ages 5 and under. River Arts, Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. $5. Info, 888-1261.

open Gym: Little ones bound around on big blue mats. Sunrise Gymnastics, Barre, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 3-5 & 5-7 p.m. $10 per child; $5 per each additional sibling. Info, 223-0517.

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

movies

After-school movie: Film buffs put up their feet and watch a flick, popcorn in hand. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

music

First Friday Youth classical music concert: Young instrumentalists perform polished solos, duets and trios in an aesthetically and acoustically beautiful setting. All ages. Christ the King Church, Burlington, 7-8:30 p.m. Donations accepted for young musicians in need. Info, 864-6411.

Nature & science

sound science: Good listeners explore how audio travels through different materials. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3-3:30 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

straw Rockets: Imaginative inventors use air power to make space contraptions fly. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11-11:30 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Theater

The Peking Acrobats: Emulating the festive frenzy of a Chinese carnival, this traveling troupe pulls off highwire, cycling and tumbling feats to traditional beats, with some special effects thrown in for good measure. Paramount Theater, Rutland, 7:30 p.m. $29.50-36.50. Info, 775-0903.

2 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

clay for Families: Special ceramics made in the studio are left for firing and glazing, then picked up later. All ages. ArtisTree Community Art Center, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-noon. $20 per parent/child pair; $5 per additional person; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Face Painting: Kids get fancy with facial embellishments by the Snowqueen. Located near the food court. University Mall, South Burlington, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Info, 864-0683.

Kids craft: mardi Gras mask: Embellished with feathers, glitter and ribbons, these outlandish creations are fit for a Fat Tuesday fête. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

saturday Kids drop-in class: Lucky little ones create a clay pot o’ gold. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $12; $10 for accompanying friend or sibling. Info, 985-3648.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: Brand-new mamas give their full attention to relaxation and strength building. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15. Info, 778-0300.

Burke mountain sled dog dash: Sprint-racing teams with up to 12 dogs compete in this family-oriented event, complete with skijoring and dog-sled rides. Proceeds benefit the Hope Fund. Kingdom Trails Association, East Burke, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free to watch; $5 for children to participate in the one-dog event. Info, 626-7300.

Vermont Flower show: See March 1.

Education

Kids Workshops: Children learn do-it-yourself skills and tool safety as they build a different project each session. Ages 5-12. Home Depot, Williston, 9 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 872-0039.

one-on-one Tutoring: Students from the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences school youngsters in reading, math and science. Ages 6-12. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Understanding Educational Evaluations: Education attorney Tyler St. Cyr brings parents up to speed on relevant laws, parent-advocacy strategies and legal protections regarding school assessments. The Law Office of Tyler St. Cyr, Burlington, 1:30-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 578-9866.

Fairs & Festivals

Ben & Jerry’s Winter Festival: Grab a cone at this annual carnival, which features free factory tours, sugar on snow, a snowshoe quest and cold-weather games. All ages. Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Waterbury, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Donations accepted for the Waterbury Food Shelf. Info, 866-258-6877.

magic Hat mardi Gras: Bead catchers boogie to music from festive floats. Downtown Burlington, noon. Families with children under 10 can watch the 3 p.m. parade roll by from the Little Jambalaya Viewing Zone located on the north side of Main Street, between South Champlain and Battery Streets. Free. Info, 658-2739.

Food

Burlington Winter Farmers market: Farmers, artisans and producers offer fresh and prepared foods, crafts, and more in a bustling indoor marketplace with live music, lunch seating and face painting. All ages. Memorial Auditorium, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 310-5172.

caledonia Winter Farmers market: Freshly baked goods, veggies, beef and maple syrup figure prominently in displays of “shop local” options. All ages. Welcome Center, St. Johnsbury, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 592-3088.

capital city Winter Farmers market: Root veggies, honey, maple syrup and more change hands at an offseason 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 March 1. Girl scout cookie sale: Area troops set up shop with Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs and more. Proceeds support local scout units. University Mall, South Burlington, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Info, 863-1066.

middlebury Winter Farmers market: Crafts, cheeses, breads, veggies and more vie for spots in shoppers’ totes. All ages. Mary Hogan Elementary School, Middlebury, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 247-4699.

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: 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, 779-1485.

Games

Queen city chess club: Pawn pushers study the board in a quick lesson with a coach, followed by a few matches. Ages 5-14. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 324-8450.

Health & Fitness

The cat in the Hat on the Yoga mat: Colorful Dr. Seuss stories accompany yoga poses and mindfulness

activities. Ages 4-11. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, 9:30 a.m. $10.

Enosburg Tumble Time: Children burn off some extra energy with play time in the gym. Ages 6 and under. Enosburg Elementary School, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment gives tumblers a chance to run free. Ages 7 and under. YMCA, Winooski, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $5-8 per family. Info, 862-9622.

Yoga Tots: Toddlers and parents stretch it out in exercises meant to build self-esteem and positive attitudes toward physical activity. Ages 6 and under. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 9-9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Library & Books

Read Across America day: Budding bibliophiles mark Dr. Seuss’ birthday with a page-turning presentation of The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins. Held simultaneously at Phoenix Books in Burlington and Essex, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 448-3350.

Russian story Time: Language learners find new friends through stories, songs, puppetry and crafts. Ages 6 and under. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Nature & science

cells!: Little learners don lab coats for a microscopic comparison of plants and animals. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Fingerprints: Kids get up close and personal with their prints, exploring what makes them unique. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11-11:30 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Planetarium Presentation: An astronomy expert offers a guided tour of the cosmos. Ages 5 and up. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 1:30-2:30 p.m. $5. Info, 748-2372.

submit your April event for print by march 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

World Music

Leave your suitcase at home. The VERmoNT PHiLHARmoNic FAmiLY coNcERT takes listeners all over the map through song. “Music around the World” is a kid-friendly introduction to classical compositions from austria, russia, Spain and beyond. There’s even one very local work by harwood Union high School senior cecelia Daigle. The globe-trotting theme extends to a slide show of student artwork, and young audiences are encouraged to bring homemade instruments and wear costumes inspired by the countries represented on the concert program.

VERmoNT PHiLHARmoNic FAmiLY coNcERT: Sunday, March 17, 2-3 p.m., at Barre Opera House. All ages. $5-15; $32 per family; free for youth who submit artwork, come dressed in costume or bring a homemade instrument. Art submissions must be received by March 11. Info, 476-8188. vermontphilharmonic.org

Raptors Up close: Little nature lovers discover the fascinating lives of birds of prey through touchable artifacts and hands-on materials. All ages. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 2-2:30 p.m. Regular admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 4. Info, 359-5000.

Winged Wonders: A classroom session illuminates the hows and whys of flight, showcasing the aerial abilities of several education ambassadors. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 11-11:30 a.m. Regular admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 4. Info, 359-5000, ext. 209.

Theater

‘circus spectacular: A Hot show on a cold Weekend’: Mesmerizing performers from Cirque du Soleil, the Ringling Bros. Circus, Cirque Éloize and Cirque le Masque join professionals from the New England Center for Circus Arts in high-flying feats, juggling, comedy and partner balancing. Latchis Theater, Brattleboro, 7:30 p.m. $10-50. Info, 254-9780.

saturday drama club: Thespians help Very Merry Theatre produce a show in just three hours. Ages 5-12. Very Merry Theatre, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $15 (or pay what you can). Info, 863-6607.

3 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Postnatal Yoga: Moms bring their pre-crawling kids to a tone-up class addressing sore shoulders and backs. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 12:15 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

community

Burke mountain sled dog dash: See March 2, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Vermont Flower show: See March 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1. Girl scout cookie sale: See March 2.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 1.

Lyndon center Public skating: Families slide and glide

over the frosty rink. All ages. Fenton W. Chester Ice Arena, Lyndon Center, 12:30-2:30 p.m. $3; $3 rentals. Info, 626-9361. open Gym: See March 1, 3-5 & 5-7 p.m.

UVm men’s Basketball Game Dribblers pound the court in a fast-paced match. All ages. UVM Patrick Gymnasium, Burlington, 2 p.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 656-4410.

Nature & science

microscopic investigations: Small scientists magnify different items to discover a world that can’t been seen with the naked eye. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11-11:30 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

mirror, mirror: Little ones use looking glasses to investigate reflection and symmetry. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3-3:30 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 2.

Raptors Up close: See March 2.

Winged Wonders: See March 2.

4 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

Yoga After Baby: New moms focus on their core, pelvic floor and arm strength, bringing their infants along if they choose. Shambhala Center, Montpelier, 11 a.m.noon. $10. Info, 778-0300.

Education

community dinners on High school innovation: Regional educators, business leaders and community members join a conversation on developing and promoting innovative educational practices. Johnson State College, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 828-0262. one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2, 4:30-8 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Health & Fitness

Hoopla: Large, easy-to-use hoops and great music make for a funky dance-fitness experience. All ages. Windancer Movement Center, Middlebury, 7-8 p.m. $8-12 per child, accompanied by an adult. Info, 388-3381. itty Bitty Public skating: Tiny feet take to the ice for fun and games. Leddy Park/Paquette Arena, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. $8 per family; $1 skate rentals. Info, 865-7558.

open Gym: See March 1, 10 a.m.-noon

Yoga & martial Arts: Playful but focused activities build agility, strength, balance and overall health while teaching participants about mindfulness, body awareness and peaceful cooperation. Ages 7-12. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 4-5 p.m. $14 drop-in. Info, 870-0361.

Library & Books

RU12? Rainbow Reading Hour: LGBTQA families come together for stories and activities. Ages 6 and under. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 5:306:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-7812.

Write Now!: Bestselling authors-to-be get inspired to put that poem or story on paper. Ages 12-18. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Young Adult Advisory Board: Tweens and teens discuss how to make the library a destination for likeminded kids. Ages 12-18. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

music

shake Your sillies out: Tots swing and sway to music with children’s entertainer Derek Burkins. University Mall, South Burlington, 10:35 a.m. Free. Info, 863-1066, ext. 11.

Nature & science

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

MARCH CALENDAR Theater

Storybook Theater: Drama kings and queens work with local actress Nikki Juvan to adapt a picture book into a performance worthy of the Town Hall Theater stage. Grades K-2. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 388-4097.

5 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Craftacular Tuesdays: Kids get caught up in low-tech projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Food

Chocolate-Dipping Demonstration: See March 1.

Games

Chess Club: Checkmate! Kids of all ability levels scheme winning strategies. All ages. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Health & Fitness

Dancin’ With My Baby: See March 1, 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Tiny Tumblers Open Gym: See March 1. Yoga & Martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

Pajama Story Time: Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!: Fans celebrate Theodor Geisel’s fantastical works through tales, crafts, snacks and face painting. All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

6 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Arts for Tots: Music, movement, free play and art projects inspire creativity in young minds. 18 months-4 years. ArtisTree Community Art Center, Woodstock, 10:15-11:15 a.m. $10 drop-in; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Baby & Maternity

Breast-Feeding-Mom Support: New mothers get to

Story Times

MONDAY

Bristol Toddler Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.

Burlington Stories With Megan: Fletcher Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Colchester Preschool Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

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

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

Middlebury Early-Literacy Story Time: Ilsley Public Library, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4095.

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

Richmond Pajama Time: Richmond Free Library, 6:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

St. Albans Story Time: St. Albans Free Library, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

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

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

Waterbury Toddlers-’n’-Twos: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

TUESDAY

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

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

Burlington Science & Stories: ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, 11 a.m. Regular admission, $9.50-$12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

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

East Middlebury Preschool Stories: Sara Partridge Community Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Essex Story Time for 3- to 5-Year-Olds: Brownell Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6955.

Essex Story Time for Babies & Toddlers: Brownell Library, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

know each other during this informative and informal session. Children welcome. Grace Church, Rutland, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 747-8665.

Mommy & Me Yoga: Stretching, strengthening and breathing sequences are specially designed for moms to tone their post-pregnancy bodies and connect meaningfully with their babes. For mothers of babies ages 6 weeks-1 year. ArtisTree Community Art Center, Woodstock, 11 a.m.-noon, $12 drop-in; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Education

NOOK Kids APPtivity: Tablet-tapping tots play, create and learn on store-provided devices and kid-friendly apps. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.

One-on-One Tutoring: See March 2. 4:30-6 p.m.

Social Thinking: Kids with nonverbal learning disabilities, Asperger’s syndrome and high-functioning autism develop their social skills. Call for times. Ages 6-17. Preregister. Maple Leaf Clinic, Wallingford, Info, 446-3577.

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. Most groups follow the school calendar; call ahead to confirm these schedules.

Fairfax Story Hour: Fairfax Community Library, March 12, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Info, 849-2420.

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

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

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

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

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

Waterbury Story Time: Thatcher Brook Primary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 244-5605.

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 Hour & Crafts: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: Buttered Noodles, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

WEDNESDAY

Berkshire PJ Story Time: Berkshire Elementary School, second Wednesday of every month, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

Essex Story Time for 3- to 5-Year-Olds: See Tuesday, 10-10:45 a.m.

Essex Toddler Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday, 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Montgomery Story Hour: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, montgomery.librarian@gmail.com.

Richford Story Hour: Arvin A. Library, 9:30 a.m.

Free. Info, 848-3313.

South Burlington Baby Book Time: South

Food

Chocolate-Dipping Demonstration: See March 1.

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

Games

Lego Afternoons: Youngsters create freely from big buckets of building blocks. Parents encouraged to send a snack; popcorn provided. Ages 6 and up. Lincoln Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See March 1.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See March 1. Lyndon Center Public Skating: See March 3, 2:45-4:15 p.m.

Open Gym: See March 1, 10 a.m.-noon

Tiny Tumblers Open Gym: See March 1. Yoga & Martial Arts: See March 4.

Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

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.

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

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

THURSDAY

Bristol Preschool Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.

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

Franklin Story Time: Haston Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Middlebury Early-Literacy Story Time: See Monday.

Rutland Story Time: Rutland Free Library, 10-10:45 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 Time: See Monday, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

Enosburg Story Hour: Enosburg Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 933-2328.

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

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 Children’s Story Time: Lincoln Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.

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

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

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

South Burlington Story Time Adventures: South Burlington Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

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 Saturday Story Time: Phoenix Books, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 448-3350.

Colchester Drop-In Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Milton Therapy Dog Story Time: Milton Public Library, first Saturday of every month, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

South Burlington Story Time: See Saturday, 10 a.m.

Library & Books

dorothy canfield Fisher Book discussion: Bibliophiles voice likes and dislikes about award-winning books such as Andrew Clements’ Troublemaker. Ages 8-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Dr. First videos “First with Kids” at Fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Read to a dog: Kid-friendly canines attend a one-on-one story time, helping new readers practice their skills in a no-stress environment. Stowe Free Library, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 253-6145.

Richford PJ story Time: Kids gather with friends for bedtime prep through stories, songs and crafts. Ages 6 and under. Arvin A. Library, Richford, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Youth media Lab: Aspiring Spielbergs make movies and explore technology in this drop-in collaboration with Middlebury Community Television. Grades 3 and up. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

music

may’s music & movement: Caregivers and their charges lace up their dancing shoes for a fun and educational session with May Poduschnik. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4095.

moving & Grooving With christine: Tots let loose to the rhythms of rock-and-roll and world music. Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Preschool music With Raphael: Little ones dance and sing to guitar tunes. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Parenting

Brownies & Boxes: Over dessert, parents learn about how a thematic “book box” can lead to meaningful, educational play with their children. They also craft a finger puppet to bring home. South Burlington Community Library, 7-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 652-7080.

7 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool 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

Breast-Feeding support Group: Lactating moms bring their babies and bond over stories and advice. Family Birthing Center, Northwest Medical Center, St. Albans, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister. Info, 524-7970.

La Leche League of Essex: Moms and little ones meet to discuss parenting and breastfeeding. Pregnant and planning moms are also welcome. First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 383-8544. Postnatal Yoga: See March 3, 1:30 p.m.

Education

Fun With Numbers: Families can count on a good time at this hands-on evening of math activities. Ages 3-5 and their parents. Highgate Public Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2, 3-6 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Games

shelburne magic club: Illusionists practice card tricks and share their most successful sleights of hand.

submit your April event for print by march 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

Grades 5-8. Pierson Library, Shelburne, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 2. itty Bitty Public skating: See March 4.

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

Food for Thought: Teen volunteers chow down on pizza while tackling library projects. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Hand in Hand: Do-gooders plan community-service projects. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Homeschoolers’ Book Group: Peers gather for talks on a variety of books. Ages 10-14. St. Albans Free Library, 1-2 p.m. Free; regular attendance required; preregister. Info, 524-1507.

music

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

Nature & science

Homeschool Winter series: Out-of-classroom learners unravel the wonders of the natural world. Separate sessions for grades 1-3 and 4-6 run simultaneously.

Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 10-11:30 a.m. $10-12 per child; free for adults; preregister. Info, 359-5000, ext. 223.

Theater

BarnArts Touring Teen company: Would-be actors learn about contributing to a traveling spring production. Company members will develop characters, write scripts and create costumes and props at weekly meetings. ArtisTree Community Art Center, Woodstock, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 332-6020.

8 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Family clay drop-in: Parents join kids for some work on the wheel. All ages. BCA Center, Burlington, 5:307:30 p.m. $5-6 includes one fired and glazed piece per participant; addition pieces are $5 each. Info, 865-7166.

Homeschoolers Knitting Group: See March 1.

Tadpole Preschool clay drop-in: Young artists learn to create pinch pots, coil cups and sculptures. Ages 3-5.

BCA Center, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $5-6 includes one fired and glazed piece per participant; additional pieces are $5 each. Info, 865-7166.

community

Beach Party: Summertime fun heats up an afternoon of food, music, games and warm-weather attire. Highgate Public Library, noon-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Education

Homeschool Project day: Out-of-classroom learners present their current studies with peers. Milton Public Library, second Friday of every month, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See March 1.

dancin’ With my Baby: See March 1.

Family Gym: See March 1. Friday Night ski & dine: See March 1.

Kids open Gymnastics: See March 1.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1.

8 FRidAY, p. 38

Burlington PuBlic SchoolS Kindergarten registration

All Burlington Elementary Schools

the registration deadline for Kindergarten for Fall 2013 is March 15, 2013

Feel free to contact any schools if you would like to arrange a visit.

if you have a child turning 5 on or before september 1, 2013 you need to register them for Kindergarten now. this is true for all students wishing to enroll in any of our six elementary schools.

All forms can be found at our district website at www.bsdvt.org, in any of our schools or at our district office at 150 Colchester Ave.

Families completing registration forms should bring a copy of their child’s birth certificate, a copy of their immunization records and proof of residency. these documents are required for registration.

Feel free to contact any schools if you would like to arrange a visit.

Go Get WIC

SUSTAINABLITY

ACADEMY—864-8480

CHAMPLAIN—864-8477

EDMUNDS—864-8473

J.J. FLYNN—864-8478

C.P. SMITH—864-8479

INTEGRATED ARTS

ACADEMY—864-8475

8 FridAy (continued)

Library & Books

spanish musical Kids: Amigos learn Latin American songs and games with native Argentinian Constancia Gómez. Ages 1-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Toddler Time: Tiny tots become social butterflies through stories, songs and rhymes that foster early-literacy skills. Ages 3 and under. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

movies

After-school movie: See March 1.

‘mystery at Hathorne school’: Local filmmaker Rose Curran screens her new, all-ages short work, which features local actors and was produced using the library and Middlebury Community Television’s Youth Media Lab. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 6-6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 623-6324.

Nature & science

Pajama Party: Inquisitive attendees tune in for animal tails — er, tales — regarding turtles, owls, snakes, falcons and more. Families with children ages 3 to 8. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 6:30-7:15 p.m. $8-10 per adult/child pair; $3-4 per additional participant; preregister. Info, 359-5000, ext. 223.

Theater

Todd oliver & Friends: dogs Gone Wild! Tour: A comedian/ventriloquist takes the stage with his wise-cracking canines, Irving, Lucy and Elvis. All ages. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 8 p.m. $35-45; $120 for Family 4-Pack. Info, 760-4634.

dr. First videos

“First with Kids” at Fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

9 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

Art studio drop-in: Little learners explore current exhibits through creative drawing, painting or sculpting projects. Ages 6 and up. BCA Center, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 suggested donation. Info, 865-7166. Kids craft: Birdhouse on a stick: Fans of feathered friends make miniature homes for felt birds. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

saturday Kids drop-in class: Participants make playful snake puppets from ties. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Shelburne Craft School, 1011:30 a.m. $12; $10 for accompanying friend or sibling. Info, 985-3648.

Home, Sweet Home

every March, Vermont’s freezing nights and daytime thaws yield pure, liquid gold — the state’s signature liquid asset. Want to sample the sweetness? Sugar shacks all over the state open their doors during the 12th annual mAPLe oPeN House WeeKeNd activities vary at each location, but if the weather is right, families can join hardworking sugarmakers as they tap trees and watch sap turn to syrup over the fire. no visit is complete without the ultimate treat: sugar on snow.

mAPLe oPeN House WeeKeNd: Saturday, March 23, and Sunday, March 24, various times at participating sugarhouses statewide. All ages. Free. Info, 763-7435. Visit vermontmaple.org to find a list of events and locations.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See March 2. Pregnancy & Baby Expo: Want to know what to expect when you’re expecting? Twenty-two local vendors showcase their services, as related to pregnancy, babies and new families. Holiday Inn, South Burlington, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $5; free for kids. Info, 363-9597.

Education

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2.

Preschool Family day: Adults and children explore indoor and outdoor play spaces during a morning of seasonal crafts or cooking projects. Teachers are on hand to answer questions about the nature- and playbased curriculum. Ages 2-6. Willow Morning Garden, Shelburne, 9-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 985-3900.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont chili Festival: Restaurants and caterers ladle out spicy stews from the sidewalks, and street performers, live music and face painting further heat things up. Downtown Middlebury, 1:30 p.m. $5; free for kids under 8. Info, 377-3557.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Girl scout cookie sale: See March 2.

Norwich Winter Farmers market: See March 2.

Rutland Winter Farmers market: See March 2.

sugar-on-snow Party: Families sample the state’s “liquid gold” on ice — or with the traditional doughnut and pickle. Kids can feed the goats and meet other farmyard friends. All ages. Palmer’s Sugarhouse, Shelburne, noon-4 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5054.

Games

Queen city chess club: See March 2.

Health & Fitness

The cat in the Hat on the Yoga mat: See March 2. Family Gym: See March 2.

Franklin Tumble Time: Gym time provides youngsters with the opportunity to run, jump and play. Ages 6 and under. Franklin Central School, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1, 10:45 a.m.12:15 p.m.

Library & Books

Born to Read: Highgate’s 2012 newborns are honored with a book dedicated to the library in their name. Highgate Public Library, 9 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970. dr. seuss celebration: The Cat in the Hat fans put on their wildest socks and caps for a morning of books, crafts and snacks. Ages 2 and up. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 10-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 879-0313.

‘The Expeditioners’ With s s. Taylor: The Vermont author of this adventure novel organizes fun activities and offers behind-the-scenes info on her book. Target age group is 10-14; all are welcome. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 448-3350.

movies

movie matinee: Small cinephiles beat the winter blues with popcorn and a favorite children’s flick. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507. stories on the screen: Dim the lights! Families gather for a movie, crafts and snacks. South Burlington Community Library, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 652-7080.

Nature & science

Planetarium Presentation: See March 2.

Raptors Up close: See March 2.

submit

Take Apart day: In conjunction with the “How People Make Things” exhibit, curious kiddos explore the “guts” of everyday items, from toasters to toys. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 1-4 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Winged Wonders: See March 2.

Theater

saturday drama club: See March 2.

10 SUNDAY

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Girl scout cookie sale: See March 2.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 9.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 1.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 3.

Nature & science

Fingerprints: See March 2, 11 a.m.

Fossils: Evidence of the Past: Youth sleuths clue into the origins of preserved remains. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 2.

Raptors Up close: See March 2.

Winged Wonders: See March 2.

Ongoing Exhibits

EcHo LAKE AQUARiUm ANd sciENcE cENTER, BURLiNGToN

Info, 864-1848

‘strange matter’: Kids explore the mind-boggling world of materials as they discover the science behind everyday products, such as DVDs and cellphones. Through May 12.

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.

moNTsHiRE mUsEUm oF sciENcE, NoRWicH

Info, 649-2200

‘How People make Things’: Visitors don hard hats and safety glasses to become factory technicians, workers or supervisors as they learn how people, ideas and technology contribute to the manufacture of familiar childhood objects. Through June 2.

Contests

PBs Kids Go! Writers contest: Wee wordsmiths submit original stories and illustrations to a judged competition hosted by Vermont Public Television. The deadline for entries is March 22. Grades K-3. Info, 655-8059

Playgroups

MONDAY

Kids enjoy fun and games during these informal get-togethers, and caregivers connect with other local parents and friends. The groups are usually free and often include snacks, arts and crafts, or music themes. Contact the playgroup organizer or visit kidsvt.com for site-specific details. Most groups follow the school calendar; call ahead to confirm these schedules.

and Parks Department, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 872-9580.

St. Albans BBF Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, St. Albans, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Barre Open Gym: Sunrise Gymnastics, 10 a.m.-noon. $10 child. Info, 223-0517.

Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers & Toddlers: St. Joseph School, 11 p.m. Free. Info, 999-5100.

Cambridge Hometown Playgroup: Cambridge Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-0539.

Colchester Playgroup: Malletts Bay School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5900.

Essex Open Gym: Regal Gymnastics Academy, 11 a.m.-noon. $8; free for children under 18 months. Info, 655-3300.

Isle La Motte Playgroup: Isle La Motte School, 7:309:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Jericho Playgroup: Jericho Community Center, 9:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Moretown Playgroup: Moretown Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 262-3292.

Morrisville Hometown Playgroup: Morristown Graded Building, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-0539.

Rutland Babies & Toddlers Rock: Rutland Free Library, first Monday of every month, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

South Burlington Music With Raphael: Kids City, 11:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 859-9130.

South Hero Playgroup: South Hero Congregational Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Swanton Playgroup: Mary S. Babcock School, 9:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Twinfield Playgroup: Twinfield Union School, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 262-6071.

Waterbury Playgroup: Thatcher Brook Primary School, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 244-5605.

Williston Music With Raphael: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Winooski Fathers & Children Together: Winooski Family Center, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422. Wolcott Playgroup: Wolcott Depot Center Preschool, 8:15-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-0539.

TUESDAY

Bristol Playgroup: Bristol Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Burlington Family Play: VNA Family Room, Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington Fathers & Children Together: VNA Family Room, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington Music With Robert: Fletcher Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Colchester Playgroup: See Monday, 9-11 a.m. Colchester Teddy Bear Picnic: Malletts Bay School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5906.

Essex BBF Playgroup: Essex Junction Recreation

11 MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Yoga After Baby: See March 4.

Community

Milton Community Dinner Series: Milton residents discuss local e orts to improve health and well-being over a delicious meal. Milton Elementary/Middle School, 4-7 p.m. Donations accepted. Info, 893-3215, ext. 1164.

Education

One-on-One Tutoring: See March 2, 4:30-8 p.m.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday, 11 a.m.-noon.

Georgia Playgroup: Georgia Elementary & Middle School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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, 888-347

Middlebury Playgroup: Middlebury Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Milton Playgroup: New Life Fellowship Church, Thursdays, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-1457.

Montpelier Lego Club: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, third Tuesday of every month, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Montpelier Tulsi Morning Playgroup: Tulsi Tea Room, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 223-0043.

Richford Playgroup: Cornerstone Bridges to Life Community Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

South Burlington Baby Time: Faith United Methodist Church, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 658-3659.

South Burlington Tiny Tot Time: South Burlington Community Library, 9:15 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

WEDNESDAY

Barre Open Gym: See Monday, 10 a.m.-noon.

Enosburg Playgroup: American Legion - Enosburg, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 933-6435.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday, 11 a.m.-noon.

Essex Welcome Baby Playgroup: Move You Fitness Studio, 10 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 872-9580.

Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrop Memorial Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Hinesburg Playgroup for Dads: Annette’s Preschool, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Milton Baby Playgroup: Milton Town O ce Community Room, 10-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4922.

Montgomery Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, every fourth Wednesday, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Northfield Playgroup: United Church of Northfield, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 262-3292.

Richmond Playgroup: Richmond Free Library, 8:4510:15 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Shelburne Playgroup: Trinity Episcopal Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 764-5820.

Shelburne Sing-Along: Lemon Peel Café and Crêperie, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 985-9511.

South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264.

Food

Chocolate-Dipping Demonstration: See March 1. Cooking Class for Kids: Kitchen enthusiasts don aprons before they prepare delicious and healthy meals. Grades 5-8. Milton Elementary/Middle School, 3:304:30 p.m. $12. Info, 893-4922.

Games

Legos at the Library: Builders fashion architecturally sound constructions, based on an inspiring theme. Ages 7-12. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

Hoopla: See March 4.

Vergennes Playgroup: Congregational Church of Vergennes, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Waterbury Music and Movement: Thatcher Brook Primary School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-5605.

Williston Baby-Time Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Free. Info, 658-3659.

THURSDAY

Alburgh Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, Alburgh, Free. Info, 527-5426.

Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga, second Thursday of every month, 10:20 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 864-9642.

Burlington Family Play: See Tuesday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Essex BBF Playgroup: See Tuesday, 9:30-11 a.m.

Essex Open Gym: See Mondays, 11 a.m.-noon.

Fletcher Playgroup: Fletcher Elementary School, first Thursday of every month, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Fletcher Tumble Time: Fletcher Elementary School, second Thursday of every month, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Johnson Hometown Playgroup: United Church of Johnson, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-0539.

Milton Playgroup: See Tuesday, 9:30-11 a.m.

Montgomery Infant Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Montpelier Baby Playgroup: St. Augustine Parish, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 262-3292, ext. 115.

Montpelier Dads and Kids: Family Center of Washington County, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 262-3292, ext. 115.

Morrisville Baby Chat: First Congregational Church of Morrisville, first Thursday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

Waitsfield Playgroup: Big Picture Theater, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 262-3292.

Waterbury Playgroup: See Monday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Williston Music With Raphael: See Monday, 10:30 a.m.

Winooski Playgroup: O’Brien Community Center, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

FRIDAY

Essex Center Playgroup: Memorial Hall, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6751.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday, 11 a.m.-noon.

Fairfax Community Playgroup: BFA Fairfax, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Ferrisburgh Open Gym: Ferrisburgh Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

Huntington Playgroup: Huntington Public Library, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Info, 899-4415.

Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

St. Albans MOPS: Church of the Rock, third Friday of the month, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 393-4411.

Stowe Hometown Playgroup: Stowe Community Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-0539.

Swanton Late-Morning Playgroup: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Underhill Playgroup: Underhill Central School, 9:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Waterbury Playgroup: See Monday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7147, jakruwet@yahoo.com.

Worcester Playgroup: Doty Memorial School, 9-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 229-0173.

SATURDAY

Building Bright Futures Essex Open Gym: Essex Junction Recreation and Parks Department, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6715.

Fairfax Open Tot Gym & Infant Playtime: BFA Fairfax, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Franklin Playgroup: Franklin Central School, second Saturday of every month, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Montpelier 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: Mary S. Babcock School, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

SUNDAY

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

Open Gym: See March 1, 10 a.m.-noon

Yoga & Martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

Youth Advisory Board: Lit lovers brainstorm how to make the library even better. Grades 5 and up. Highgate Public Library, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Music

Shake Your Sillies Out: See March 4.

12 TUESDAY

Food

Chocolate-Dipping Demonstration: See March 1.

Kids in the Kitchen: From the ricotta filling to the garlicky tomato sauce, chef-instructor Nina LesserGoldsmith helps budding cooks make oozing stromboli. All ages; kids must be accompanied by an adult. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Games

Chess Club: See March 5.

Game On!: Kids learn new diversions or play old faves. All ages. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Health & Fitness

Dancin’ With My Baby: See March 1. 10:30-11:45 a.m. Moovin’ & Groovin’: Energetic youngsters develop

Dr. First videos

“First with Kids” at Fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

self-confidence, coordination, and language and social-interaction skills through varied creative play, including obstacle courses, dancing and drumming.

Ages 18 months-4 years. ArtisTree Community Art Center, Woodstock, 10-10:45 a.m. $12 drop-in; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1.

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

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.

dorothy canfield Fisher Book Group: Young readers dish about Jo Knowles’ See You at Harry’s over ice cream. Grades 4-8. Essex Free Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Little Night-owl story Time: Listeners swoop in for some bedtime tales, songs and crafts. Ages 5 and under. Essex Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

13 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Arts for Tots: See March 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington La Leche League: Babies and older kids are welcome as moms bring their questions to a breastfeeding support group. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-8228.

mommy & me Yoga: See March 6.

community

Poetry out Loud state competition: High schoolers recite works by noted poets for the chance to compete in a national contest. All ages. Barre Opera House, 10 a.m., 1 & 4 p.m. Free. Info, 828-3291.

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, March 14, 1-3 p.m. $4-5; preregister. Info, 828-1314.

NooK Kids APPtivity: See March 6. one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2, 4:30-6 p.m. social Thinking: See March 6.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1. cookie decorating: See March 6.

Games

Georgia Family Game Night: Players sit down for friendly competitions of Candy Land, checkers and Monopoly. Visitors are welcome to bring their own games, too. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

Lego Afternoons: See March 6.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See March 1.

Kids open Gymnastics: See March 1.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 3, 2:45-4:15 p.m.

open Gym: See March 1, 10 a.m.-noon

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1.

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

Read to a dog: Fuzzy, friendly canines listen to readaloud tales that encourage literacy and connection with animals. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4:15 p.m. Free; preregister for a time slot. Info, 849-2420.

True Colors

Glittering illustrations and a message of unselfish friendship made Marcus Pfister’s children’s book THE RAiNBow FisH a modern classic. In it, a beautiful fish remains friendless because he refuses to share his iridescent scales with the other swimmers. The story sparkles on the stage, too, in a musical adaptation by nationally touring theater troupe artsPower. a wise octopus, a magic mirror and a shark who sings like Elvis enliven this daytime performance, which teaches young audiences the importance of inner beauty.

THE RAiNBow FisH: Wednesday, March 27, 10 a.m., at Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph. Recommended for families with kids in pre-K through grade 2. $6. Make reservations at 431-0204 or outreach@chandler-arts.org. chandler-arts.org.

13 wEdNEsdAY, P. 42

March calendar

13 WEdNEsdAY (continued)

Read to a dog: See March 6.

Youth media Lab: See March 6.

music

may’s music & movement: See March 6. moving & Grooving With christine: See March 6.

Preschool music With Raphael: See March 6.

Nature & science

Aspiring Naturalists Teen Program: On a monthly exploration, young adults practice primitive skills, from building a fire by friction to foraging for wild edibles.

Ages 14-17. Shelburne Farms, 4:30-7 p.m. Preregister. Info, 985-0327.

Preschool discovery Program: Guided outdoor explorations and craft projects teach adventurers about the natural world. Ages 3 to 5. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 10-11:30 a.m. $5-8. Info, 229-6206.

14 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

make a Leprechaun Trap: Irish folklore inspires a St. Patty’s Day-themed craft. Snacks provided. Grades K-5; kids under 9 must be accompanied by an adult. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Pollywog Preschool drop-in: See March 7.

Education

community dinners on High school innovation: See March 4, Castleton State College, 6-8 p.m. History for Homeschoolers: See March 13, 1-3 p.m. one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2, 3-6 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Games

Lego club: Building-block lovers of all ages get busy with the library’s giant collection. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Teen Wii challenge: Tech-savvy youngsters try out the video-game console. Ages 5 and up. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 2.

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

Fairfax PJ story Hour: Children don pajamas to listen to a story and make a craft before bedtime. Ages 6 and under. Fairfax Community Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Tanya Lee stone: The Vermont author attends a double launch party for her two recent books, Courage Has No Color and Who Says Women Can’t Be Doctors? Flying Pig Children’s Books, Shelburne, 4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 985-3999.

VolunTeens: Young adults plan events for the library. Grades 7-12. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:304:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

music

Williston Kids music With mr. chris: See March 7.

15 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Family clay drop-in: See March 8.

Homeschoolers Knitting Group: See March 1.

Tadpole Preschool clay drop-in: See March 8. Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See March 1.

dancin’ With my Baby: See March 1.

Family Gym: See March 1.

Kids open Gymnastics: See March 1.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1.

Library & Books

imagination Vacation: In the spirit of the “maker” movement, kids tinker with technology, exploring how computers and telephones work. For school-age kids. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Jiggity Jog: A tuneful meetup with Miss Susan entails singing, dancing and instrument playing. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

spanish stories & music: Kids learn to rhyme, read and sing en español. Ages 6 and under. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Teen Tech Week Event: Youngsters embrace technology through app scavenger hunts, fun with memes, games, food and prizes. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Youth Night: Teens and tweens hang out and enjoy movies, snacks and projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

movies

After-school movie: See March 1.

16 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

Kids craft: Rainbow Hang Up: Young artists make multicolored arcs just in time to find a pot o’ gold for St. Patty’s Day. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

major mess: Art projects inspire kids to break out the creativity — and leave the cleanup for later. All ages. ArtisTree Community Art Center, Woodstock, 10:3011:30 a.m. $10; preregister. Info, 457-3500. saturday Kids drop-in class: Pipe cleaners morph into artistic sculptures. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $12; $10 for accompanying friend or sibling. Info, 985-3648.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See March 2.

community

mascot march & Easter Egg Hunt: Little ones scavenge for hidden sweets while area business mascots show off their costumes. Ages 10 and under. University Mall, South Burlington, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1066.

Education

college Pathways: High school sophomores, juniors and parents get a jump on higher-education planning at a workshop hosted by VSAC. St. Michael’s College, Colchester, 9:15 a.m.-2:45 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 542-2240.

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2.

Fairs & Festivals

irish Heritage Festival: Count your lucky charms and celebrate Celtic culture through traditional tales and crafts. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Donations accepted. Info, 865-7216.

Food

Burlington Winter Farmers market: See March 2. capital city Winter Farmers market: See March 2. chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1. Girl scout cookie sale: See March 2. Norwich Winter Farmers market: See March 2. Rutland Winter Farmers market: See March 2.

sugar on snow: south Burlington: Visitors celebrate Vermont’s sweetest offering — maple syrup — by sampling delicious treats and activities. Ages 3 and up. Dakin Farm, South Burlington, noon-4 p.m. Free. Info, 425-6726.

Dr. First videos

“First with Kids” at Fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

sugar on snow: Ferrisburgh: Mad about maple syrup? Boiling demonstrations, an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast and live music celebrate this year’s crop. Ages 3 and up. Dakin Farm, Ferrisburgh, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 425-6726.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 9.

Games

Queen city chess club: See March 2.

Health & Fitness

The cat in the Hat on the Yoga mat: See March 2.

Family Gym: See March 2.

movies

‘mystery at Hathorne school’: See March 8, 2:30-3 p.m.

music

A Family concert With mr. chris & Friends: The popular local singer-songwriter behind Music for Sprouts headlines a kid-friendly fête with original and traditional tunes. Shelburne Town Hall, 11 a.m. $5-10 suggested donation per family. Info, 497-7217.

Nature & science

Balch Nature school open classroom: Inquisitive youngsters explore Mother Earth through toys and crafts. Ages 7 and under, accompanied by an adult. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 10 a.m.-noon. Regular museum admission, $6-8; free for kids under 5. Info, 748-2372.

optical illusions: Young minds discover that things are not always what they seem during this sciencebased session. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Parachutes: Curious kids make mini ’chutes to test air resistance. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 2.

Raptors Up close: See March 2.

Winged Wonders: See March 2.

Parenting

Parent-Volunteer Workshop: Parents of children with special needs learn about advocacy, peer support, navigating the education system, communication skills and accessing resources to help their own child or others. La Quinta Inn & Suites, St. Albans, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; $25 stipend provided; preregister. Info, 373-3365.

Theater

saturday drama club: See March 2.

17 SUNDAY

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Girl scout cookie sale: See March 2.

sugar on snow: south Burlington: See March 16, noon-4 p.m.

sugar on snow: Ferrisburgh: See March 16.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 9.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 1.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 3.

music

Vermont Philharmonic Family concert: Listeners

journey to Finland, Israel, Norway, Austria, Spain and beyond in a varied program of “Music From Around the World.” See calendar spotlight on page 35. All ages. Barre Opera House, 2-3 p.m. $5-15; $32 per family; free for youth who submit artwork or dress to represent a country featured in the concert program. Info, 476-8188.

Nature & science

Leafcutter Ants: Nature fans investigate the secret lives of “insect fungus farmers.” All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

mirror, mirror: See March 3, 3 p.m.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 2.

Raptors Up close: See March 2.

Winged Wonders: See March 2.

18

MONDAY

Baby & maternity

childbirth Education Refresher class: Expectant parents review the physical and emotional aspects of labor, as well as relaxation and breathing techniques.

Franklin County Home Health Agency, St. Albans, 7-9 p.m. $25. Info, 527-7531.

Yoga After Baby: See March 4.

Education

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2, 4:30-8 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Health & Fitness

Hoopla: See March 4.

open Gym: See March 1, 10 a.m.-noon

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

RU12? Rainbow Reading Hour: See March 4, 5:306:30 p.m.

music

shake Your sillies out: See March 4.

19 TUESDAY

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Games

chess club: See March 5.

magic: The Gathering: Fans of this trading-card game gather to play with their own decks, or borrow ones from the library. Grades 6-12. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Health & Fitness

dancin’ With my Baby: See March 1, 10:30-11:45 a.m.

moovin’ & Groovin’: See March 12.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1.

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

creative Tuesdays: See March 12.

Loren Long: Tractor fans meet the author-illustrator of Otis and the Puppy. Flying Pig Children’s Books, Shelburne, 4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 985-3999.

20 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Arts for Tots: See March 6.

20 WEdNEsdAY (continued)

Baby & maternity

mommy & me Yoga: See March 6.

Education

NooK Kids APPtivity: See March 6.

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2, 4:30-6 p.m.

social Thinking: See March 6.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1. cookie decorating: See March 6.

Games

Lego Afternoons: See March 6.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See March 1.

Kids open Gymnastics: See March 1.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 3, 2:45-4:15

p.m.

open Gym: See March 1, 10 a.m.-noon

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1.

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

move, Groove & sign!: Young ones take a hands-on approach to celebrating National Deaf History Month with American Sign Language. Recommended for ages 2-5, but all are welcome. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Pajama story Time: Small ones curl up for bedtime tales, cookies and milk. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Read to a dog: See March 6.

Youth media Lab: See March 6.

music

may’s music & movement: See March 6. Preschool music With Raphael: See March 6.

Nature & science

Preschool discovery Program: See March 13.

21 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

cartooning Workshop: Doodlers have fun sketching comic strips with local illustrator Will Workman. Ages 9 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Pollywog Preschool drop-in: See March 7.

Education

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2. 3-6 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Kids in the Kitchen: Good eaters make monkey bread, playing around with its sweet and savory applications. All ages; kids must be accompanied by an adult. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Games

shelburne magic club: See March 7, 6-8 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 2.

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See March 1.

dancin’ With my Baby: See March 1.

Family Gym: See March 1.

Kids open Gymnastics: See March 1.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1.

movies

After-school movie: See March 1.

Nature & science

Homeschool day: Visitors explore the quirky museum’s “Cabinet of Curiosity” and eat a bag lunch between lessons. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $10 per student; free for accompanying parent. Info, 748-2372.

Homeschoolers day: Electricity!: A hands-on investigation illuminates basic circuits and batteries. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Parenting

Life of the child conference: In “Smart Moves: Why Learning Is Not All in Your Head,” renowned biologist and educational consultant Carla Hannaford offers a two-day workshop exploring why movement, music and play are essential for brain development. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 7-9 p.m. $20 for Friday; $49-60 for both days; preregister. Info, 985-2827, ext. 12.

Theater

‘Pollyanna’: The Whiting Cloverleaves 4-H Club celebrates the centennial of Eleanor H. Porter’s classic children’s story by staging a youth-run production about this perpetually optimistic protagonist. All ages. Grace Baptist Church, Middlebury, 7 p.m. $2-5. Info, 623-6838.

23 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

Art studio drop-in: See March 9.

Face Painting: See March 2.

Kids craft: Wooden Bunny Egg: Little ones hop to it, making Easter bunnies with cotton-puff noses. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

saturday Kids drop-in class: Young inventors turn found objects into robots. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $12; $10 for accompanying friend or sibling. Info, 985-3648.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See March 2.

community

meet clifford the Big Red dog: Once the runt of the litter, this giant pup hangs out with children during hourly storytelling and craft activities. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

Baby Boom

as the old proverb goes, “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” that last part is certainly true at Billings Farm & Museum. like clockwork, each spring brings the working dairy farm a new crop of cute, cuddly farm creatures. Visiting families meet the lambs and chicks and calves — oh, my! — at BABY ANimAL dAY once they’ve oohed and awwed, kids can hop a horse-drawn wagon ride around the grounds, make a pom-pom chick craft or learn about seed planting in the heirloom gardens.

BABY ANimAL dAY: Saturday, March 30, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., at Billings Farm & Museum in Woodstock. All ages. Regular museum admission, $3-12; free for kids under 3. Info, 457-2355. billingsfarm.org

spring PJ story House: Comfy-clothed kiddos relax with words, songs and crafts. Ages 6 and under. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

music

Williston Kids music With mr. chris: See March 7.

22 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Family clay drop-in: See March 8.

Homeschoolers Knitting Group: See March 1.

Tadpole Preschool clay drop-in: See March 8.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

dance

TRiP dance company: Composed of 36 dancers ages 8 to 18, this competitive company associated with the Stowe Dance Academy showcases several award-winning numbers in an annual fundraiser. All ages. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 3 & 7:30 p.m. $2025. Info, 253-5151.

Education

college Pathways: See March 16, Castleton State College, 9:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m.

Girl scouts Presents: iBm Tech camp: Middle-school girls suit up for a day of on-site fun with IBM’s female engineers. Activities include building circuits and operating a robot. Ages 11-13. IBM Corporation, Essex Junction, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $12; preregister. Info, 888-474-9686.

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2.

Fairs & Festivals

Huntington sugarmakers’ open House: Beat the mud-season blues! Folks tour the town’s maple-syrup operations and have a taste of this year’s crop. Maps of participating locations are available at Huntington stores. All ages. Various locations, Huntington, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3269.

Dr. First videos

“First with Kids” at Fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

maple open House Weekend: Even the most powerful sweet tooth will meet its match when sugar shacks all over the state offer maple-sugaring demonstrations. See calendar spotlight on page 38. All ages. Various locations statewide. Free; visit vermontmaple.org to find a list of participating sugarhouses and hours. Info, 763-7435.

Poultney maple Fest: Feeling sappy? Tour local sugar shacks and celebrate the sweet stuff at a pancake breakfast, fun run, craft fair, community dinner and more. Main Street, Poultney, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Most events are free. Info, 287-4114.

Food

4-H Pancake Breakfast: The Shelburne Explorers 4-H Club serves up flapjacks with a drizzle of maple syrup. Proceeds support their dairy project. All ages. McClure Center for School Programs. Shelburne Farms, 9 a.m.noon. $4-8. Info, 985-8686.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Norwich Winter Farmers market: See March 2.

Rutland Winter Farmers market: See March 2.

sugar on snow: south Burlington: See March 16, noon-4 p.m.

sugar on snow: Ferrisburgh: See March 16.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 9.

Games

Queen city chess club: See March 2.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 2.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1, 10:45 a.m.12:15 p.m.

Nature & science

creeping colors: Marker dyes break down into a rainbow of hues as small scientists watch capillary action. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Explore our sugarbush: Families follow the journey of sap to syrup — and sample the finished product. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 985-8686.

magnetic moments: Budding scientists experiment with invisible pull. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 2.

Raptors Up close: See March 2.

Whooo’s in the sugarbush?: Youngsters have a hoot learning about woodland wildlife through Outreach for Earth Stewardship’s live bird-on-hand presentations. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 985-8686.

Winged Wonders: See March 2.

Parenting

Life of the child conference: See March 22, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Parent-Volunteer Workshop: See March 16.

Theater

‘Pollyanna’: See March 22, 3 & 7 p.m. saturday drama club: See March 2.

submit your April event for print by march 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

24 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Newborn 101: Moms- and dads-to-be learn the basics about babies — from breastfeeding to prolonged crying — as well as how to enjoy the first three months of parenthood. Franklin County Home Health Agency, St. Albans, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $30; preregister. Info, 527-7531.

Fairs & Festivals

maple open House Weekend: See March 23.

Poultney maple Fest: See March 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Food

4-H Pancake Breakfast: See March 23, 9 a.m.-noon. chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Pancake Breakfast: Folks meet firefighters at this neighborly meal with all-you-can-eat flapjacks, eggs, hash browns, sausage and more. All ages. Williston Fire Department, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $5-8. Info, 233-9693.

sugar on snow: south Burlington: See March 16, noon-4 p.m.

sugar on snow: Ferrisburgh: See March 16.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 9.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 1.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 3.

music

Burlington Taiko: An award-winning ensemble keeps the beat with Japanese-style drumming at an elaborate display of movement and pageantry. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 3 p.m. $15-30. Info, 863-5966.

Nature & science

Explore our sugarbush: See March 23, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Hoopster Gliders: Creativity soars as kids craft a flying contraption. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Kitchen chemistry: Mad scientists combine common household products, which yield unexpectedly entertaining results. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 2.

Raptors Up close: See March 2.

Whooo’s in the sugarbush?: See March 23, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Winged Wonders: See March 2.

25 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

Yoga After Baby: See March 4.

Education

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2, 4:30-8 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Health & Fitness

Hoopla: See March 4.

open Gym: See March 1, 10 a.m.-noon

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

intergenerational Book discussion: Book lovers gather for a good read-and-rant session, complete with dessert. Ages 12-adult. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-7576.

Residential summer opportunities for talented 9th-12th graders on VT college campuses!

Arts Information Technology

Current Issues & Youth Activism

Environmental Science & Technology

Engineering Mathematical Sciences

Asian Cultures

Interdisciplinary: Farms, Food & Your Future

Combining extreme learning and extreme fun for Vermont students since 1983

k6h-BarreOperaHouse0313.indd 1

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To help him see hope,

music

shake Your sillies out: See March 4.

26 TUESDAY

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1. Games

chess club: See March 5.

Health & Fitness

dancin’ With my Baby: See March 1, 10:30-11:45 a.m. moovin’ & Groovin’: See March 12.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1. Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

creative Tuesdays: See March 12.

Parenting

Early-Literacy Parent Workshop: Adults engage in activities proven to help improve children’s reading comprehension and increase their vocabulary. The Stern Center, Williston, 6-7:30 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 878-2332.

Theater

‘The Grandparents Award storybook spectacular’: Addison County elders chose their top picture books of 2012, and local youth stage adaptations of three of the works. All ages. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 388-1436.

27 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Arts for Tots: See March 6.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1. cookie decorating: See March 6.

Kids in the Kitchen: Breakfast on a stick? Baking enthusiasts master the art of stuffed French-toast pops. Ages 6 and up, accompanied by an adult. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Games

Lego Afternoons: See March 6.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See March 1.

Kids open Gymnastics: See March 1.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 3, 2:45-4:15 p.m.

open Gym: See March 1, 10 a.m.-noon

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1.

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

Read to a dog: See March 13.

Read to a dog: See March 6.

Youth media Lab: See March 6.

movies

‘it’s PJ Night at the mall, charlie Brown’: Pajama-clad families screen “It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown,” based on the comic-strip characters of “Peanuts.” Cookies and milk provided. University Mall, South Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1066.

music

may’s music & movement: See March 6. moving & Grooving With christine: See March 6. Preschool music With Raphael: See March 6.

Our new, state-of-theart Children’s Inpatient Program

combines best practices in clinical space design with a strong sense of wonder for the young people in our care. Highlights include:

• Comforting, child-friendly design and decor

• Private bedrooms for up to 12 children

• Sensory room with soothing bubble tubes and other sensory integration tools

• Multi-use community rooms

• Low stimulation suite and quiet room

• Dedicated family visiting space

Here, we help children find the strength to overcome their challenges, in a warm, welcoming place of safety and hope. Learn how we’re leading the way at brattlebororetreat.org

Boo-Boo Bunny Kids craft: Participants make a seasonal craft using a washcloth and hot glue. Younger children require adult assistance. St. Albans Free Library, 4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 524-1507.

Baby & maternity

mommy & me Yoga: See March 6.

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.

Pregnancy circle: Mothers-to-be practice labor breathing and relaxation while sharing positive birth stories. A healthy snack is provided. Birth Journeys, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. $5-15 sliding scale; preregister. Info, 324-8809.

community

Families Together support Group: Parents of children with special needs convene for information and connections. Vermont Family Network, Williston, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 876-5315.

dance

‘sleeping Beauty’: The Russian National Ballet presents a three-act masterpiece based on the children’s tale of a princess under the spell of an evil fairy. Lyndon Institute, 7 p.m. $26-53. Info, 748-2600.

Education

NooK Kids APPtivity: See March 6. one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2, 4:30-6 p.m. social Thinking: See March 6.

Nature & science

Full moon Walk: With a Winooski Valley Park District environmental educator, families explore the ways of local wildlife under lunar light. All ages. Macrae Farm Park, Colchester, 7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-5744.

Preschool discovery Program: See March 13.

Theater

‘The Rainbow Fish’: ArtsPower stages a musical adaptation of Marcus Pfister’s classic tale about a colorful swimmer who learns to share. See calendar spotlight on page 41. Pre-K through grade 2. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 10 a.m. $6. Info, 431-0204.

28 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool drop-in: See March 7.

Education

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2, 3-6 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Games

Lego club: See March 14.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 2.

Yoga & martial Arts: See March 4.

Library & Books

mysterious Hogwarts Reading society: Fantasy fans gather to discuss magical reads. Grades 4-6. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Games

Queen city chess club: See March 2.

Health & Fitness

Dr. First videos

“First with Kids” at Fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Young Writers club: Budding scribes work on exercises and prompts designed to ignite a creative spark. Grades 4-12. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

music

Williston Kids music With mr. chris: See March 7.

29 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Homeschoolers Knitting Group: See March 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See March 1.

dancin’ With my Baby: See March 1.

Family Gym: See March 1.

Kids open Gymnastics: See March 1.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 1.

movies

After-school movie: See March 1.

Nature & science

Friday Nights for Teen Tinkerers: Would-be Ben Franklins create, design and build something cool, from artistic robots to squishy circuits. Grades 6-9. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6:30-8 p.m. $14-16; preregistration encouraged. Info, 649-2200.

30 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

Face Painting: See March 2.

Kids craft: chick & Wooden Basket: Kiddos construct an eggs-cellent Easter display. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

saturday Kids drop-in class: Things go swimmingly as youngsters create paper-bag sharks. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $12; $10 for accompanying friend or sibling. Info, 985-3648.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See March 2.

Education

one-on-one Tutoring: See March 2.

Practice AcT Exam: Young scholars take the aptitude test, then learn how to improve their score in sessions with a Princeton Review instructor. Ages 16-19. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Food

Burlington Winter Farmers market: See March 2.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

Norwich Winter Farmers market: See March 2.

Rutland Winter Farmers market: See March 2.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 9.

Waitsfield indoor Farmers market: Farm-fresh edibles and locally made provender go hand in hand with music and community cheer. All ages. Big Picture Theater, Waitsfield, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 496-8994.

Family Gym: See March 2.

Library & Books

Reading Together, Writing Together: Local authors Kendra and Joanne Weber Gratton share their newest book, Octi the Octopus Faces His Fear, and families in attendance create their own written works. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Nature & science

Baby Animal day: Visitors aww over cute and cuddly calves, lambs, chicks, ducklings and goslings. Horsedrawn wagon rides, tours of the heirloom garden and children’s activities round out the day. See calendar spotlight on page 44. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Regular museum admission, $3-12; free for kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Bird-monitoring Walk: Eagle-eyed participants bring binoculars and explore the museum property for avian activity. Best for older children. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 8-10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 434-2167.

Build a Better Battery: Light bulbs go off as kids make and measure electricity. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Fossils: Evidence of the Past: See March 10, 11 a.m.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 2.

Raptors Up close: See March 2. saturday Nanodays: It’s a small world, after all. Little scientists explore minuscule atoms and molecules through hands-on activities and research presentations. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $9.50-12.50; free for kids ages 2 and under. Info, 877-324-6386.

Winged Wonders: See March 2.

Parenting

The secret of Joyful Education: The Genius in Every Child author Rick Ackerly offers parents and educators time-tested tools for fostering an effective relationship between home and school. Visit vickihoefle.com for details. Best Western/Windjammer Inn & Conference Center, South Burlington, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. $129; preregister.

Theater

saturday drama club: See March 2.

31 SUNDAY

Fairs & Festivals

Easter Egg Hunt: Kids ages 12 and under begin a search for the Easter Bunny’s hidden eggs on the Mighty Mite hill. Bolton Valley Resort, 9 a.m. Free. Info, 434-6804.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See March 1.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 9.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See March 1.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 3.

Nature & science

Planetarium Presentation: See March 2.

Raptors Up close: See March 2.

sound science: See March 1, 3 p.m.

straw Rockets: See March 1, 11 a.m.

Winged Wonders: See March 2. K

Burlington PuBlic SchoolS RegistRation/PRe K infoRmation

Attention Parents of Prekindergarten children (3 and 4 year olds)

the Burlington School District recognizes the importance of a high quality preschool experience for young children and is participating in Vermont’s Act 62. this law provides public education funds through the district to support prekindergarten services. important information regarding this law is as follows:

• Services must be in a qualified program for 6-10 hours a week, 35 weeks per year.

• Programs include those in the public schools as well as those in childcare/early education programs both in and outside the city of Burlington.

• Burlington’s public school programs are free, provided at no cost to parents.

• community programs, which are in a partnership with the Burlington School District, may charge families the difference between what the district pays for the 6-10 hours/week for 35 weeks a year and the actual cost of the community program.

• Parents may request the district to create a contract with their child’s program if a contract does not currently exist.

• if the district receives more applications than it has state education funds to support, a non discriminatory selection method will be implemented to determine which children receive the publicly funded program.

• registration/application forms are available on February 1st. completed applications should be returned to your child’s program teacher/director by April 5th.

• if you are already receiving funding from Burlington, you will receive a “pre-filled” registration from for your review and corrections. Please return form to your program director by April 5th.

• if your child is not already enrolled in a program, send the application directly to Burlington School District, Pre K program, attention: Diana langston, 150 colchester Ave., Burlington, V t 05401.

BOOK REVIEW WINNERS

CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE ENTHUSIASTIC YOUNG CRITICS who shared their reading recommendations with us this month. Each wins a $25 gift certificate from Crow Bookshop in Burlington. We loved reading about all the entrants’ literary adventures, and have included some of our favorite excerpts below.

Grace Cannella, 4 EAST MONTPELIER

recommends:

Arthur’s Chicken Pox by Marc Brown

“I like the part when D.W. says, ‘I’ll give you a balloon from the circus if you don’t itch.’”

Isaac Doggett, 7 BURLINGTON recommends: The Arrival by Shaun Tan

“I like the pictures illustrating the stories the characters tell ... I like the memories and the monsters in them. I like the excitingness.”

David Nicholls, 8 BURLINGTON recommends: The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

“My fave part of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit is when Gandalf starts throwing flaming acorns at the Wargs.”

Sama Abdul Samad, 10 BURLINGTON recommends: Troublemaker by Andrew Clements

“My favorite part of this story was when Clayton ... had locked his door and was not willing to say what was the matter or see anyone, even his best friend Hank!”

Downstairs Dreamland

By An A Ruesin K

• old cardboard carpet spools connected with pVc plumbing elbows form the ball labyrinth, which is suspended from the ceiling by plastic straps and an old pair of crutches.

• Foam pads formerly used by a south hero apple orchard have been turned into “squishies.”

Parent: Jamie Polli

Kid: Celia Polli, 7

Back in 2009, Jamie Polli moved into a South Burlington condo with a barren basement. He wondered how he might create a unique play space for his daughter Celia — then 4 years old — to help ease the challenge of his recent separation from the girl’s mom. “I wanted it to be really super fun,” he recalls. His solution? A magical, kid-size basement wonderland. Polli built a wooden tunnel suspended from the ceiling and installed a yellow slide that ends in an inflatable pool full of cylindrical, purplefoam “squishies.” A winding “ball labyrinth” shoots colorful plastic balls across the room, and kids can spin a “Wheel of Fortune”-like Cookie Wheel left over from Polli’s day job as the marketing director of the University Mall.

• interlocking rubber mats prevent injury on the hard concrete floor.

• tube lights add color and whimsy.

The space is continually evolving as Celia gets older and her play style changes. “The other day we were down here doing homework in the tunnel,” Polli says with a grin. K

Like what you see?

Kids VT presents information on everything from family programs and services to products and entertainment. We connect Vermont parents to the communities in which they live and work. Why

CENTRAL VERMONT WOMEN’S HEALTH is long established and highly regarded because we offer skilled, comprehensive and compassionate health care for women.

We are here to help – whether you are an expectant mom or planning your pregnancy. Our flexible scheduling and nurturing approach allows time to talk –to answer your questions, discuss your preferences and listen to your goals. We provide informed prenatal care including Centering Pregnancy ® – a model for prenatal care that brings women in similar stages of pregnancy together to learn about self-care as they prepare to have their babies. Our obstetricians and midwife, in partnership with the great nurses at our birthing center, support you through labor and a natural childbirth or provide options for pain management, including epidurals, any time of day or night.

Our physicians intervene only when necessary. Our Birthing Center is intimate and family focused. Labor, delivery and postpartum are all in the same comfortable room. You can depend on our experience. Let us help you plan a healthy and rewarding pregnancy and delivery.

OUR PROVIDERS: Roger E. Ehret, MD

Colleen Horan, MD

Rebecca Montgomery, CNM, MSN

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Roger H. Knowlton, DO, FACOG

Julie A. Vogel, MD, FACOG

Helping you have a healthy baby is what we love and do best.

Photo: top, Dr. Julie Vogel compares pregnancies with a patient. Bottom: Dr. Knowlton explains an ultasound to an expectant mom.

Eggshell Flowerpots

EASTER

IS ON THE

WAY — and, with it, a bunny who brings lots of eggs. While you need intact shells for dyeing or decorating eggs, you can use cracked shells leftover from everyday cooking for this ecofriendly project, which appeared in Martha Stewart Living in 1998. Next time you whip up an omelet or bake a cake, save your broken eggshells and transform them into miniature flowerpots. Young gardeners will have a blast watching the seeds sprout indoors. It’s a reminder that spring is just around the corner.

— CAROLYN FOX

Materials

• eggshell halves, rinsed well with water

• egg carton

• potting soil

• seeds: Fast-sprouting kinds are best — lettuces, wildflowers and most herbs, for example

• a sunny windowsill

• water

Instructions

1. Gently arrange the eggshell halves in the egg carton.

2. Spoon soil into the eggshells, filling each about halfway.

3. Plant the seeds according to package instructions, topping each eggshell off with a small amount of soil.

4. Place the open egg carton on a sunny windowsill and water regularly.

5. When the weather is warm enough, the sprouted plants can be transplanted into a garden. Make sure the plants have grown at least three inches tall, and remove them from the eggshells before planting.

CAROLYN FOX

Gourmet lettuce greens seedlings

Parties available seven days a week!

Celebrate your Birthday at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory!

•

Book Review

Sponsored by

Kids, It’s Time to Start Writing!

Kids in kindergarten through third grade are invited to enter Vermont Public Television’s 2013 edition of the PBS KIDS GO Writers Contest!

Kids write and illustrate original stories, with three winners selected from each grade level. First place winners are also sent on to the National PBS KIDS GO Writers Contest!

Entry deadline is Friday, March 22, 2013

Rules, entry forms and past entries at vpt.org

Questions? Call 1-800-639-3351

Start planning your story today!

Sponsored by:

Book:

Author:

Describe your favorite part of the story. What did you like about it?

Feel free to use additional pages!

Name Age Town Email Phone

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 Friday, March 22. Send your entries to: Kids VT, attn: Book Review, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402. 14 Church Street Burlington crowbooks.com 862-0848

New Books, Used Books, Remainders at GREAT PRICES!

COLORING CONTEST!

Send us your work of art by March 15 for an opportunity to win $25, sponsored by TD Bank

Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8 and (3) ages 9-12. The best artwork will be featured on kidsvt.com, and winners will be named in the April issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

PUZZLE PAGE

Congratulations

Puzzles4Kids

Riddle Search — Scared

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 did King Tut say when he got scared?

AFRAID ASHEN CRINGING EERIE FAINT FEARFUL FRIGHTENED MAD PALE

PANICKY SCARED SHAKY UNDONE UNGLUED UNNERVED WEAK WORRIED

BY HELENA HOVANEC

MASON lives in Williston and turns 4 in March. He loves playing at the park and wants to be an actor when he grows up.

To enter, submit information using the online form at kidsvt.com/birthday-club.

Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled.

Riddle Answer:

MOLLY lives in South Burlington and turns 4 in March. When she isn’t singing, Molly can be found painting

Square Pegs

An art-loving rural Vermont teen finds others of her kind at camp

BY EVA SOLLBERGER

WHEN I WAS 7, MY FAMILY MOVED FROM MANHATTAN to Johnson, Vermont. For me, that wasn’t such a bad thing — until I hit middle school. When I graduated from Johnson Elementary School and entered Lamoille Union High School, my world turned upside down.

At LUHS, it was very clear I didn’t fit in. Being smart no longer made me special; I hadn’t grown up with my classmates, whose families had known each other for generations. It didn’t help that my mother was a single bohemian musician (horrors!), we didn’t own horses or a house (double horrors!) and I didn’t play sports (more horrors still!).

and strange patterns, which made them look like the o spring of a Vogue model and Sid Vicious.

There were people strumming guitars at picnic tables and playing new music on cassette tapes — rhythms I had never heard and beats that made me want to jump around. I met members of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. At African dance class, I learned how to shake and move my body in ways I never had before.

No one at GIA discussed their horses, cows, tractors or guns. Instead, we talked about poetry late into the night, drew tattoos on each other with Magic Marker and had contests to see who could play dead most convincingly. In short, I had found my people — my tribe.

Lilies” or share my predilection for mates thought the Cure and David Bowie looked “faggy.” My life could song “Unloveable”: “I wear

There was no alternative subculture at LUHS in those days — no skaters, no hippies — and the internet was a long way o .  I was desperate to find people with whom I could connect. But no one else seemed to like Monet’s “Water Lilies” or share my predilection for Mozart and the film Amadeus. My classmates thought the Cure and David Bowie looked “faggy.” My life could be summed up by the Smiths’ song “Unloveable”: “I wear black on the outside / ’Cause black is how I feel on the inside / And if I seem a little strange / Well, that’s because I am.”

I was 14 when I heard about the Vermont Governor’s Institute on the Arts — a sleepaway camp where students spend two weeks studying drama, visual art, music and writing in the company of visiting artists. GIA chooses two students from each school in Vermont, and, lo and behold, in 1988, my application earned me one of the golden tickets.

That summer, I headed to Castleton State College for the program with Zachary Ward, the other representative from LUHS. He was one of my few friends.

Within moments of moving into the dorms, I made a new one — Susan Conrad, who became my bosom buddy and lifelong pal. Susan was blonde, slight and already an artist with a unique, defined style. She attended Burlington High School and was always drawing fanciful creatures unlike anything I had ever seen. We soon befriended a small group of girls. We’d eat our meals together and marvel at the curious people who attended GIA.

That was the magic of this camp: It was full of outcasts like me, all gathered for two weeks of delirious self-expression. There were punks and people of di erent ethnicities. There was a girl with an Afro. People wore chain necklaces

Living in the dorms gave us a sense of independence. Faculty and sta treated us like grown-ups, a huge change from the prisonlike atmosphere of high school. I started to feel less like a superfreak and more like a confident, self-su cient adult.

grown-ups, a huge change from the prisonlike atmosphere of high school. I started to feel less like a superfreak and more like a confident, self-su cient adult.

Two weeks went by far too fast. A harsh reality check beckoned back at home. But with GIA under my belt, I knew I was not alone. As my mother drove Zachary and me home, I knew I was a di erent person from the dejected outsider she had

knew I was not alone. As my mother drove Zachary and me from the dejected outsider she had dropped o .

Not long after, I left LUHS to spend my sophomore year at a high school in Bloomington, Indiana, where my father was a university professor. Then I left high school altogether: I went to Bard College at Simon’s Rock at the age of 16 and graduated with a bachelor of arts degree at 19. The Rock was a lot like GIA, a small liberal-arts school filled with gifted misfits.

After graduation, I moved to California, where I spent a decade learning how to shoot, edit and make movies. In 2004, I returned to Vermont and created my dream job making videos for Seven Days. Thanks to YouTube, my weekly “Stuck in Vermont” web videos show the rest of the world that Vermont has as many quirky personalities as it does hills and valleys.

I didn’t fully appreciate that until the summer I went to camp.

I started to feel less like a superfreak and more like a confident, self-sufficient adult.

CAMP EDGE

is a place of innovation, fun and fitness for school age children ages 5-12. Our program offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities including sports, craft projects, field trips and more! Our campers have an active summer playing and learning with their friends! Campers are placed in one of three groups based on age: Mighty 5s (5 years old)

Edgers (6-8 years old)

Activities offered by CAMP EDGE:

• Group Sports (including but not limited to: baseball, soccer, floor hockey, basketball, kickball)