Kids VT, March 2014

THE Grandparent ISSUE

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

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

Copublisher Colby Roberts colby@kidsvt.com ext. 77

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 Hayley Lamberson

Marissa Keller

Production Manager John James

Lead Designer Brooke Bousquet

Designers Aaron Shrewsbury

Rev. Diane Sullivan

Circulation Managers Steve Hadeka

Matt Weiner

Digital Media Manager Tyler Machado

Office Manager Cheryl Brownell

Contributing Writers: Kathryn Flagg, Thea Lewis, Mary Ann Lickteig, Ken Picard, Ana Ruesink, Becky Tharp

Photographers: Stina Booth, Caleb Kenna, Matthew Thorsen

Illustrator: Ian Webb

boltonvalley.com/seasonpasses

Ski & Ride for FREE for the rest of this season when you purchase next season’s pass.

PASSES FOR AGES 7-17 start at $99*!

Save $360† on a family of four when you purchase by April 1st!

Adult: $449

Youth (7-17): $99*

Senior (65-74): $199

Senior Plus (75+): $29

Night Pass (All Ages): $119

*When purchased with parent’s Adult All Access Season Pass. Multiple youth passes may be purchased for $99, provided all youth are dependents of the adult. †Savings based on two adult and two dependent youth passes.

the next generation

In about two months, my mum and dad will become grandparents. I’m pregnant and due in early May; my brother’s wife is due in June. Amid the chaos of preparing for these first grandchildren, my parents have been discussing an important issue: What will they be called?

My dad wants to be Granddad, just like his own father. Mum is torn between Nana and Lulie. The latter was my mother’s nickname as a little girl. When her youngest brother tried to say her name, Susan, it came out all wrong. But “Lulie” was adorable, so it stuck.

My mom likes the idea of resurrecting this moniker, but she’s also drawn to the name she used for her favorite grandmother, Nana. “I have incredibly warm associations with that name,” she told me. Nana taught her to cook and sew, gave her backrubs and always shared her big bed with my mom and her sister when they visited. But the name also conjures images of an austere old lady. “Nana had a big bosom and wore a long house dress with old-lady shoes,” my mother recalls.

Maybe she won’t have to decide. Grandparents don’t always have the final say when it comes to their new names. That privilege often goes to the first grandchild, who inevitably mispronounces them. My maternal grandfather was supposed to be Grampa, but when my brother opened his mouth, out came “Pappy.”

My mom suspects something

similar might happen with her grandchildren. “Somebody is going to say something cute, and it’ll stick,” she predicts.

Bumpa, BeeBop Steve, Big Nana, Nama and Dampa — these are just a handful of the idiosyncratic names I’ve heard friends using to describe their parents’ parents. Whatever you call them, grandparents are a special part of growing up. My Nanny played piano and sang with me, and I marveled at my Nanna’s hair: white with a blue rinse.

In this month’s Kids VT, we salute the grandmas and grandpas, Nonnies and Pawpaws who make kids’ lives a little bit sweeter. In “Family Extended” (p. 18), Ken Picard talks to Vermont grandparents who are raising their own grandchildren. And in “Polish Poker Face” (p. 55), Cathy Resmer reminisces about grandparents who lived nearby, but revealed little about themselves.

In “Habitat” (p.49), we peek inside the room a Ripton grandfather built to house the 800 model trains he has collected — and shared with his 14 grandchildren — over the last five years. And in “Making Memories” (p. 53), Ken Picard offers tips on conducting an interview with Nana and Granddad, so their stories live on long after they’re gone.

So grab your grandma — or your Oma or Pops — and enjoy the March issue.

Megan JaMes, Managing editor

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

Elaine Young (“Digital Dilemmas”) is a professor at Champlain College, mother to a teenager and author of Tuned-In Family: How to Cope, Communicate and Connect in a Digital World

Mary Ann Lickteig (“The Art Of”) is a former newspaper reporter who lives in Burlington with her husband and four children. Together, they consume about eight gallons of maple syrup a year.

Ana Ruesink (“Mealtime”) lives in Burlington with her husband and two daughters. She’s no Iron Chef, but her sweet-potato biscuits win “Best in Show” every time they show up on the family table.

An intimate setting for your most cherished moments

Delivering joy we do that here

At Northwestern Obstetrics & Gynecology, our team of three highlyexperienced physicians provides family-centered care from pregnancy through birth and beyond. And, through collaboration with the NMC Family Birth Center, you get the birthing experience you imagined, with private rooms, concierge service, skin-to-skin bonding, breastfeeding support and more. Your journey is unique and we’re here to make it memorable.

Our

Megan James and her nanna

Excerpts From the Kids VT Blog

Belly Rubs

BY MEGAN JAMES

When I first got pregnant, people warned me that once my belly was big, I’d start getting unwanted looks, touches and comments from strangers.

BUMP BLOG on a

Now that I am sporting what is obviously a pregnant belly — not just a lumpy midriff leftover from lunch — I’m starting to understand what they meant. When you’re creating another human life, everyone around you becomes interested.

People give you conspiratorial looks every time they catch you with food in your hands. They offer daily updates on the growth of your midsection. They ask you how you’re sleeping. And yes, sometimes they touch you.

The thing is, I kind of like it...

Home Cookin’: Smothered Burritos

BY TASHA LEHMAN

Taco Night is serious business around here, but sometimes, I want to kick it up a notch. That’s just what I did with this smothered-burrito recipe. It’s taco-ish enough to keep the kids happy, and you can make it work with whatever you have in the pantry. Switch out the beef for shredded chicken, or the refried beans for black beans. Leave the green chiles out or add in more. It looks like a big cheesy, gooey mess in my photo. But it’s a tasty mess!

Book Review: Meet Wild Boars

BY ALISON NOVAK

Plenty of children’s books contain big ideas and inspirational messages, but sometimes kids — and parents — crave something a little lighter. If you’re in the mood for a silly read, and don’t mind a little scatological humor, Meet Wild Boars by Meg Rosoff and Sophie Blackall is an excellent choice.

“Beware of this book,” reads a warning on the front flap. “It is full of wild boars! They are dirty and smelly, bad-tempered and rude, so whatever you do, do not try to make friends with them.” My kids — Mira, 6, and Theo, 3 — were captivated from the get-go…

Other recent web exclusives:

Enter the PBS Kids Go! Writers Contest: Budding authors in kindergarten through third grade have a chance to flex their literary muscles. Find out how to submit their original works — fact or fiction, poetry or prose — at vpt.org/writers by March 21.

Home Cookin’: Pancakes for Dinner: Pancakes with bell pepper, ham and cheddar? Kids VT calendar writer Alison Novak delighted her family with this savory take on a breakfast classic.

GRAND MEMORIES

Kids VT staff and contributors reflect on what they learned from Grandma and Grandpa.

“When I was little, my grandma helped me make a stuffed monkey. I drew it, and she sewed it up. When it was finished, I realized that I had forgotten to give the monkey arms; I had messed up. Maybe my grandma, Rose McMahon Lickteig, had an inkling that I would turn into a perfectionist. Or maybe she just wanted me to like the monkey. But what she said next was perfect: ‘His hands are in his pockets.’”

MARY ANN LICKTEIG, CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“My grandfather, Dexter Kimball, a lifelong Vermont dairy farmer, always made sure that everyone in his house had enough to eat. As a kid, I sometimes found this strange, especially hearing him ask if I’d had enough after I’d devoured an enormous Thanksgiving feast. As I got older, I realized that this ritual was an embodiment of his personality. He taught me that letting people know that you care isn’t a sometimes thing, it’s an all-the-time thing — no matter how full you get.”

that a thing, — get.”

COLBY ROBERTS, COPUBLISHER

“I loved visiting my dad’s mom, Grandma Joan, and her second husband, Grandpa Fred, in Arizona when I was young. My grandma always started her day early with a glass of buttermilk. She would give me and my sisters stale bread to feed to the birds that lived on the lake behind her house. Our visits were full of simple joys like that. My grandma worked; Fred was the house-husband who loved to whip up big roasts and rum cake and tell us stories he created about a ragtag bunch of characters led by the very naughty Bad Barbara. Watching my grandparents was probably my first experience seeing nontraditional gender roles in action.”

ALISON NOVAK,

CALENDAR WRITER

I’d

“My grandma, Alberta Ruesink, had a big and generous heart — and a waistline to match. To show her love, she cooked. From the kitchen of her Midwestern dairy farm, she nurtured seven children and scores of grandkids on classic recipes like Salisbury steak, au gratin potatoes and heavenly hash. She taught me to keep the cookie jar well stocked in case company drops by.”

ANA RUESINK, CONTRIBUTING WRITER

COLORING CONTEST

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

the world extensively, is an

A leopard can’t change its spots, but last month’s 145 coloringcontest entrants changed everything else about our friendly feline. One added butterfly wings, another redirected the kitty’s eyes so they gazed flirtatiously at a mouse. We especially loved the leopards that kids transformed into other things altogether: a Seahawks player, a Wild West sheri , a ballerina and a bespectacled, helmet-wearing skateboarder. Those were some cool cats. Keep the creativity coming, and congratulations to all the winners!

person has

“My grandmother, Carolyn Bessett, was a woman before her time. She and my grandfather raised five strong, independent children while working multiple jobs and going to college. She traveled the world extensively, is an accomplished artist and remains fully engaged in current events. At almost 90, she is still the smartest person in the room. She has instilled in me, and in the rest of the strong women in my family, the self-confidence to follow our instincts and pursue our dreams.”

BROOKE BOUSQUET, DESIGNER

HONORABLE MENTIONS

PARADISE IN PINK

George Hu man, 11, Burlington

EYE-CATCHING DESIGN

Kaitlyn McCullagh, 8, Colchester

MYSTERIOUS MOUNTAINS

Ava O’Brien, 5, Shelburne

“My maternal grandparents died when my mom was a kid, so I immigrated to Massachusetts from Ireland and, by the time I was born, had no photographs parents to share. When I was a teenager, a relative sent an old

the cut of his suit, the part in his hair. He had my nose — or I

“My maternal grandparents died when my mom was a kid, so I never met them. My mother immigrated to Massachusetts from Ireland and, by the time I was born, had no photographs and few memories of her parents to share. When I was a teenager, a relative sent an old photograph of my grandfather, Michael Sammon, to our house. I was fascinated. I studied the features of his face, the cut of his suit, the part in his hair. He had my nose — or I had his? Staring at that long-lost image of the grandfather I would never know gave me a magical feeling of connection to the past.”

BECKY THARP, CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“My grandma, Phyllis Montgomery, was a huge Cubs fan when I was growing up in Chicago. As a young baseball player, I loved listening to her stories of Ernie Banks and Billy Williams. She used to keep score of every game with a pencil and paper. To this day, whenever I attend a major-league game, I always buy a scorecard and keep score.”

KAITLIN MONTGOMERY, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

TERRIFIC TEAM SPIRIT

Skye Fitzhugh, 10, Jericho

PERFECT PAW-HELD PAINTBRUSH

Hayden Oakes, 8, Swanton

HOT SPOTS

Keira McCullagh, 4, Colchester

FEZ FASHION STATEMENT

Hazel Dority, 9, Fairfield

BEST BUTTERFLY WINGS

Seanna Lemieux, 8, Graniteville

FLOWER POWER

Kyla Abair, 5, St. Albans

EXQUISITE DRAGONS

Winn Gillen, 9, Duxbury

FLIRTIEST FELINE

Tanisha Gerg, 8, Georgia

FANTASTIC FREE-FORM

Addy Smith, 5, Shelburne

TOP TITLES

“MITTENS MOVE”

Audrey A. Delp, 10, North Ferrisburgh

“LARISSA THE FRENCH RAINBOW

PEPPERMINT CIRCUS CLOWN”

Maria Murphy, 8, Plattsburgh, N.Y.

“XENA: SHE WENT TO THE TOYSTORE”

Sullivan Martaniuk, 5, Colchester

“Heart of the Jungle”

Emma Lowry, 10 BURLINGTON

“Magic Under a Rainbow”

Nevaeh Burdo, 5 HINESBURG

“The Sheriff at Sunset”

Orion Ward, 8 ST. ALBANS Find

THE BEAT

BY MEGAN JAMES

FOOD

Snack Attack

Julianna Doherty is a mother of four, so she’s familiar with the challenge of packing lunches on the fly. That’s why she created LUNCH BUNDLES, a line of all-natural, prepackaged meals that retail for about $5 a pop. Each one contains healthy nibbles such as Vermont Farmstead cheeses, Castleton Crackers, dried fruits and vegetables, and chocolatecovered pretzels. Think Oscar Mayer’s Lunchables gone wholesome. The idea, says Doherty, co-owner of Graze, a Vergennes-based farm-to-fridge grocery-delivery service, is that “if you were packing the lunch, you’d use the same ingredients. You could toss it to your kid and feel good about it.”

LUNCH BUNDLES: The Vermont-made snack packs can be found at several area stores, including Healthy Living Market & Café and City Market. They’ll be available at all Hannaford stores in April. Find more information at lunchbundles.com.

BOOKS Shelter From the Storm

When a thunderstorm erupts over New York City, the kids and adults in Elizabeth Bluemle’s new picture book, TAP, TAP, BOOM, duck for cover in the shelter of the subway. Bluemle, co-owner of Shelburne’s Flying Pig Bookstore, drew on her years of city living to evoke the urban setting in this, her fourth children’s book. “Feet wetter?/ You’d better/ go down/ underground,/ where the water/ can’t getcha./ You betcha,” she writes, using what Publishers Weekly calls “toe-tapping, jazz-chant verse.” Illustrated by G. Brian Karas, the story shows how magic can happen when little misfortunes bring strangers together. The book hits shelves on March 25, just in time for April showers.

TAP TAP BOOM BOOM: Bluemle reads from her book at a family-friendly launch party, with food, live music and a cash bar, Tuesday, March 25, 4-7 p.m., at ArtsRiot in Burlington. Find more information at flyingpigbooks.com. information at flyingpigbooks.com.

CAMP

The Whole Fam Damily

Summer camp is a multigenerational a air at CAMP COMMON GROUND in Starksboro. Since the family camp was created 20 years ago, it has welcomed campers of all ages and encouraged families to bring grandparents along. So it’s not uncommon to see kids teaching Grandpa how to yo-yo or filming a mockumentary with Nana. Our culture tends to exclude older generations when it comes to family vacations and outdoor adventures, says operations director Neily Jennings. “The magic of making summer camp available to grandparents and kids is that it creates a much richer experience for everyone,” she says. “Campers of all ages can be their own person and pursue their own interests, but it’s amazing how much those interests overlap.”

CAMP COMMON GROUND: The Starksboro family camp, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this summer, offers four weeklong sessions, from July 19 through August 15. Find more information at cgcvt.org.

Good Night’s Sleep

Last year, when Celia Andrews was 9 years old, she decided to sleep outside in the middle of winter. She’d heard about the annual Spectrum Sleep Out, during which Burlington-area business leaders spend a night on Church Street to raise money to support homeless youth, and she wanted to get involved. With her parents’ blessing, Celia spent one snowy night in a tent in her Westford backyard — and raised $1,200 for the cause. Inspired by Celia’s initiative, the organization is holding its first-ever SPECTRUM STUDENT SLEEP OUT this month. Anyone can sign up. Just be sure to take Celia’s advice: “Use lots of blankets! Also, it’s OK to ask people for money, because it’s for something really good. You are helping homeless kids!” Celia will be sleeping out again this year, but not alone; she recruited a group of friends to join her.

SPECTRUM STUDENT SLEEP OUT:

Families, church youth groups, civic and school groups can pick any night from March 27-30 to sleep outside. Find more information, including a Sleep Out tool kit and gear checklist, at spectrumvt.org.

COMMUNITY What Will You Make?

Tinkerers, rejoice! When Burlington’s GENERATOR opens in the basement of Memorial Auditorium this month, DIY mavens, or “makers,” of all ages will have access to shared workspace and tools such as laser cutters and 3-D printers. In addition to memberships and studio space, the Generator will offer classes for kids and families in 3-D printing, soldering and computer-aided design. “It’s important that we’re family friendly,” says executive director Christy Mitchell. “Kids nowadays pick up on stuff so quickly, you could even have kids teaching their parents new skills here.”

GENERATOR: Grand Opening Celebration, Saturday, March 15, 4-8 p.m., in the Memorial Auditorium Annex in Burlington. Families can tour the new space and participate in hands-on activities such as using a 3-D printer to create jewelry. Find more information at generatorvermont.com.

Liam Redmond slept out in Essex last year.

✱ DIGITAL DILEMMAS ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT THE EVER-EVOLVING ONLINE WORLD

Q: When my kids were babies, I shared tons of photos of them, some of which were embarrassing, on social media. But now that my older son is about to start school, he may make friends who will have access to these online archives. How can I help him keep the mystery, so to speak, and protect his privacy?

A: Now that your son is starting school, it’s a great time to reevaluate what you post about him publicly. It’s also a great time to get him involved in the process of what you post and who gets to see it.

Start by making sure any pictures of him you’ve already posted are private — visible only to you — or shared only with close family and friends. Many social networks will let you adjust these privacy settings. It’s a good idea to move all your photos of your son into a new, more private album. As for those embarrassing pictures — which you might have thought were cute at the time — download them to your computer for your eyes only and delete them from the social network.

Next, sit down with your son and show him the new album you’ve created with his baby pictures. Let him know who can see them and ask him if he’d like any removed. Tell him that now that he is in school, you’re going to ask his permission before you post anything about him. You can also let him know that if he wants to share anything with close family and friends online, you would be happy to post it for him.

This sets a foundation for your son to learn about asking permission before posting content and gives him a voice in what you share.

Elaine Young is the author of Tuned-In Family: How to Cope, Communicate & Connect in a Digital World and is a professor at Champlain College, where she specializes in digital marketing and social media. Got a question? Send it to Elaine at ideas@kidsvt.com.

STRESS IS A NORMAL PART OF CHILDHOOD. But when it starts interfering with a child’s day-to-day activities, how should parents respond?

This month, Dr. Mary Ann Donnelly-DeBay, a clinical and school psychologist for the Winooski School District, o ers advice on recognizing and coping with kids’ anxieties.

KIDS VT: How common are anxiety disorders in kids?

DR. MARY ANN DONNELLY-DEBAY:

It’s estimated that as many as one in eight children and adolescents will be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. These disorders are the most commonly diagnosed mental health disability in the country among people of all ages, and they’re on the rise in our society. We’re seeing more generalized anxiety, more post-traumatic stress disorder, more obsessive-compulsive disorder — the entire spectrum of anxiety disorders, which can all present very di erently.

KVT: What do anxiety disorders typically look like in kids?

MADD: There is no “typical.” A lot of anxiety in children is just a normal part of their development. A little kid may have separation anxiety from Mom, or nightmares after watching a scary movie. A teenager may have mood swings and anxiety transitioning from middle school to high school. None of those things is unusual, but we still call it anxiety. However, when it interferes with friendships, family, schoolwork and extracurricular activities, then we start to ask whether it’s significant and requires intervention.

KVT: At what age does anxiety usually appear?

MADD: It can occur at any age. In the past, people didn’t look for it in younger children. I’ve never seen an infant or 1-year-old diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, but I’ve had kindergartners who displayed obsessions and compulsions, such as excessively worrying about germs, bringing in their own cups and silverware because they can’t use what’s at school. It can become so intense that it prevents them from being successful at school.

KVT: Does anxiety present differently in younger kids than in older ones?

MADD: Younger children sometimes become hyperactive or irritable or have trouble concentrating. Sometimes they

have nightmares or di culty sleeping. With adolescents, you tend to see more moodiness. But it can look di erent at any age. I’ve seen adolescents who are having problems focusing. Some kids are such perfectionists that they have trouble finishing their schoolwork and never turn it in. Children of all ages may appear sad, hopeless, angry or extremely afraid. Fear and anxiety are normal and healthy responses to threatening or stressful circumstances. However, when those emotions disrupt a child’s ability to function, he or she may have an anxiety disorder.

Poverty also contributes to it, as can inconsistent parenting in a chaotic environment, such as in homes where drugs or alcohol are abused.

KVT: How do parents or caregivers know when normal anxieties require professional help?

MADD: Typically, it’s big changes in behavior that bring a kid to my o ce. If parents see such a change, it’s always a good idea to check in with other people who know that child, such as pediatricians, teachers, school counselors and coaches. Sometimes it’s important just to monitor the behavior and see if it requires an intervention, or if it’s just part of a normal developmental phase. If children ever say that they’re thinking of harming themselves, families can get immediate help through crisis resources such as First Call in Chittenden County.

KVT: Are there common misconceptions about anxiety disorders?

MADD: Most people associate them with the internalizing child who’s trembling in the back of the classroom and underperforming. Actually, it can also be the kid who’s really anxious and has a lot of those same fears but responds by being oppositional or hyperactive. There’s also this myth that asking kids if they’re thinking about hurting themselves will put that idea in their head. There’s nothing wrong with asking that question.

KVT: Is a child more susceptible to an anxiety disorder if one or both parents have one?

MADD: Yes, there is genetic vulnerability, but stressors in the environment can also trigger anxiety. A mother’s stress in utero can contribute to the child’s vulnerabilities down the road. When a nursing mother experiences stress, her cortisol levels rise, and that will make the baby more susceptible.

KVT: Is there anything parents can do on their own?

MADD: Asking questions is always great. Kids often have a hard time expressing in words what they’re feeling. But if they are encouraged, they often show us through their behaviors.

KVT: What are your thoughts on the use of anti-anxiety drugs?

MADD: If a kid can participate in cognitive behavioral therapy, I would hold o on the meds until I gave that a try. Some kids just can’t do it, though, and need the meds to kick-start their therapy. There’s research showing that those meds, called SSRIs, can increase the risk of suicide.

KVT: What is cognitive behavioral therapy?

MADD: It involves examining the connection of thoughts, feelings and actions. We work on significantly changing the child’s thought patterns in order to alter the resulting feelings and behaviors. There’s good research to support that it leads to the best outcomes. A lot of kids achieve great success with this approach, both in managing their anxiety and curing it.

Typically, it’s big changes in behavior that bring a kid to my office.

DR. MARY ANN DONNELLY-DEBAY

BECKY THARP

Bowling

IF YOU GO:

A single game costs $4.29 per player on weekdays, $4.59 on weekends. If you don’t have bowling shoes, you’ll need to rent them for $3.99 a pair. Spare Time has a discount club on its website and offers special rates to attract families at less popular times, such as Sunday morning.

The alley also has a fleet of movable launchers, made to look like dragons, that make it easier for little ones to guide bowling balls down the lane. They’re free to use; snag one if your kids can’t roll the ball hard enough to get it to the end of the lane.

Spare Time runs a children’s bowling league on Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. for kids of all ages. Cost is $4-9 depending on age. For more information call 655-2720. sparetimecolchester.com

MOST

PEOPLE WOULDN’T CLASSIFY BOWLING AS A PHYSICAL CHALLENGE.

After all, it’s a sport that can be played, and won, while enjoying a beer and a basket of fries. Still, spending a few hours at the lanes can be a fun way to stay active, especially in winter.

On a recent Friday evening, my family headed to Spare Time, a Colchester complex that includes a bowling alley, arcade and restaurant, to test our accuracy and strength with bowling balls and pins. We hit the alley around 6 p.m., not knowing that it was a League Night; bowling leagues made up of local adults occupy most of the lanes there every evening except Sunday. The night we bowled, about 75 percent of the lanes were reserved for league members, so we had to wait our turn.

The sta took my name, gave me a beeper that would alert us when our lane was ready, and suggested we visit the restaurant. But our son Wylie, 8, and his 8-year-old friend, Anna, were more interested in the flashing lights of the arcade.

The kids tried their luck at the games for about 20 minutes, and it paid o . With $6 in tokens, they won enough tickets playing skee ball and Fruit Ninja to earn a

few pieces of candy, a pair of finger cu s and two small bouncy balls.

Our beeper went o about half an hour after we’d arrived; we’d just ordered drinks and baskets of fried appetizers from the snack bar. Time for the main attraction.

Each of us carefully chose a ball we

could comfortably lift: 7-pounders for the kiddos, a 9-pounder for me and a 12-pounder for my husband, Gabe.

In bowling, the object is to roll your ball down a long lane and knock down the 10 pins standing at the end of it. Each bowler gets 10 turns, or “frames,” per game. Bowlers get two tries per turn; ideally you knock all the pins down the

pins first time, but if you don’t, you get to roll again.

to cover the gutters. Opt in and bumpers automatically slide into place at the beginning of your turn.

I figured bumpers would help level the playing field for our mixed-age group, especially considering that my high-scoring husband comes from a long line of semiprofessional bowlers. Anna decided to use the bumpers, but Wylie surprised me, choosing to risk gutter balls without them.

me, up, and high-fiving after each turn. Hefting 20 so

If your ball drops in, it can’t hit any pins, or score any points. Keeping the ball out of the gutter can be tough, especially for beginners and kids. Fortunately, Spare Time has an easy-to-use automated bumper system. While setting up the game on the lane computer, each player indicates whether they want metal rails

Once we were set up, the four of us took turns rolling our balls down the lane and high-fiving after each turn. Hefting and flinging the ball 20 or so times per game is like lifting weights. Though, in our case, any fitness benefits were counteracted by frequent breaks to sip cold beverages and munch on perfectly crispy onion rings and sweet-potato fries.

in our case, any fitness benefits were by cold

At the end of the game, Wylie’s low score was a sure sign that bumpers might have helped boost his ranking. He was disappointed, so we didn’t dwell on the scores. Instead, I asked, “Who had the most fun?” All hands shot into the air, indicating a four-way tie. We’ll be back, if not to prove our athletic prowess, then at least for another basket of fries.

PHOTOS: MATTHEW THORSEN

The lane is flanked by two gutters. drops

Fortunately, Spare Time has an easyto-use automated bumper system.

Wylie Tharp

Gabe Tharp and Anna Arsovski

Seasonal Reads

March is Women’s History Month, so in this issue, Kids VT asked local educators and librarians to recommend books celebrating strong women from the past.

Who Says Women Can’t Be Doctors? The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell

BY TANYA LEE STONE

Ages 5-8

Book-Review Winners

Congratulations to these enthusiastic young critics who shared their reading recommendations with us last 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 excerpts below.

Henry Wood-Lewis, 10 BURLINGTON recommends:

The Hardy Boys: The Crisscross Shadow

BY FRANKLIN W. DIXON

A brave, curious girl growing up in the 1830s, Elizabeth Blackwell graduated from medical school and become the first female doctor in the United States. This is her story.

“It’s very readable, and the colorful artwork grabs kids’ attention right away,” says Jill Coffrin, youth services librarian at Dorothy Alling Memorial Library in Williston. The book, written by a Vermont author, “provides a lively introduction to a woman who questioned traditional roles and forged the way for future women doctors.”

Founding Mothers: Remembering the Ladies

BY COKIE ROBERTS

Ages 7-12

The American Revolution produced plenty of famous men. But behind the scenes, a slew of heroic, patriotic women — including First Ladies Abigail Adams and Martha Washington — helped usher in the new era.

Founding Mothers starts with a timeline illustrated by Caldecott Honor-winning artist Diane Goode covering historical highlights from 1765 to 1815. The book covers 11 women in detail. “Plus,” says Mary Graf, youth services librarian at Brownell Library in Essex Junction, “there are many fascinating notes about others who helped the cause of freedom.”

Counting on Grace

BY ELIZABETH WINTHROP

growing in a mill in Pownal, Vermont. Once there,

In 1910, a 12-year-old girl left home to work in a mill in Pownal, Vermont. Once there, she and her best friend wrote a secret letter to the Child Labor Board about the working conditions. This prompted famous photographer Lewis Hine to visit the mill and document the abuse of child laborers.

The book, based on original historical research, introduces Hine’s work. “His labor photographs remain famous today,” says Amanda Gustin, public programs coordinator for the Vermont Historical Society. “The photograph of Grace — in real life, her name was Addie — is a particularly iconic image.”

Ages 10+

Gustin recommends the resource guides on the author’s website, elizabethwinthrop.com, for parents who want to talk further with their kids about the history behind the book.

“When a man selling leather goods doorto-door steals the key to their father’s file cabinet, Frank and Joe (the main characters) try to find him.”

Joshua Kafumbe, 6 MIDDLEBURY recommends:

Heckedy Peg

BY AUDREY WOOD

“My favorite part was when the brave mother went to the witch’s hut and guessed her children’s names, and they came back to life.”

Lily Benoit, 6 MONKTON recommends:

Daisy-Head Mayzie

BY DR. SEUSS

“When a flower popped out of Daisy Mayzie’s head is my favorite part of the book.”

Bella Joly, 10 ESSEX JUNCTION recommends:

See You at Harry’s

BY JO KNOWLES

“The part I liked best was when Fern finds Holden under a big tree house and they tell secrets and some jokes. Holden is always sad, so I like when his little sister cheers him up.”

BECAUSE

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

Igrew up in Philadelphia in a family of obstetricians. My father, uncle and great uncle all delivered lots of babies — including me — over many years.

My dad couldn’t talk to me specifically about his patients, but it was obvious that he loved his work. His enthusiasm rubbed o on me. Even as a kid, I was excited to follow in his footsteps.

According to my parents, that meant going to college and medical school in Philadelphia so that I could continue the family’s obstetrical legacy. To prepare me for that track, my father began taking me to baby deliveries when I was 13 — only to watch me faint repeatedly in the delivery room.

My squeamishness didn’t faze my parents. Rather than tell me I didn’t have what it takes to become a doctor, they said they believed in me. They assured me that if medicine really was my passion, I’d overcome my fainting problem in time. At their suggestion, I volunteered in an emergency room. That did the trick. By the time I graduated from high school, I was no longer afraid of blood.

My new confidence gave me a clearer sense of my interests. I didn’t want to deliver babies, but to take care of them after they were born, from the toddler to adolescent years. So I chose to train as a pediatrician in Boston.

I thought my parents would be disappointed. Instead, they told me that the specifics of my career, and where I pursued it, were far less important to them than my happiness — even if that meant leaving the city, and profession, my family had inhabited for generations.

At 59 years old, I’ve now been happily practicing pediatrics for more than 33 years. I realize that discovering my own meaningful career path, not just following in my dad’s footsteps, is also what made my parents happy — something I keep in mind as my children prepare to set out on their own. No matter what they decide to do with their lives, I hope they know how much my wife and I believe in them, as much as my own parents have always believed in me.

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.

I

my parents believed in me, even if I didn’t follow the career path they hoped I would.

MAKE MARCH MOUTHWATERING

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Avocado & Sprouts

INGREDIENTS

2 slices hearty bread (we like sourdough)

4 Slices of your favorite cheese

Bu er

1 Avocado, sliced 1/4 cup sprouts, any kind salt & pepper

KIDS IN THE

DIRECTIONS

Heat a pan on medium high heat; add a 1/2 Tbsp of bu er and melt. Cover one slice of bread with cheese and put other piece on top. Cook sandwich in bu er for about 6 mins. flipping halfway through until cheese is melted. Remove sandwich from pan, place on cu ing board, and open. Add sliced avocado and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heap with sprouts to cover entire sandwich, cut in half, and enjoy!

Sprouts are easy and fun to grow at home - we sell sprouting seeds here at Healthy Living and they sprout quickly and cost less than store-bought sprouts. Try growing your own before making this oh so delicious spin on a grilled cheese!

IN MARCH

Vermont’s Junior Iron Chefs Turn Up the Heat

By An A Ruesink

Fourteen-year-old Peter Gebo looked over a colorful tray of chopped vegetables and furrowed his brow. He had combined red and yellow peppers, leeks, carrots and sweet potatoes in the industrial kitchen at Bristol’s Mount Abraham Union Middle-High School, but something was still missing.

“Cinnamon!” he announced to three other young chefs. “Let’s try adding cinnamon, and maybe a little bit of thyme, before they’re roasted.”

Peter and the others weren’t just playing with their food; they were practicing for this year’s Jr. Iron Chef Vermont competition. The foursome makes up one of 67 teams from more than 50 middle and high schools across the state preparing to compete on March 22 at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction. Teams will each cook an original vegetarian dish for a panel of judges and earn prizes for recipes that incorporate great colors, textures and tastes. They earn bonus points for highlighting Vermont ingredients.

Now in its seventh year, the competition — a collaborative effort between Vermont FEED and the Burlington School Food Project — is designed to connect kids to the food they eat and to local agriculture. “It’s about prepping food, learning skills and working together,” explained Kathy Alexander, food service director for Addison Northeast Supervisory Union, who is coaching Peter’s team, as well as a middle school team, at Mount Abe.

Each week since October, the young chefs she’s taken under her wing have met after school to experiment with different foods, perfect kitchen skills such as chopping and sautéing, browse cookbooks, and ponder the potential of local ingredients. By early February, it was time to refine their recipes.

And we’re not talking kid stuff like peanut butter and jelly. Peter and his teammates were working on a baked pasta dish they call Confetti Spaghetti.

On the other side of the kitchen, two members of the middle school team prepared broccoli-pesto torticotti — think manicotti made from tortillas instead of pasta — with white-bean salsa.

The Aldrich sisters, Ashley, 12, and Emily, 14, were

tweaking that recipe. At their last practice, the tortillas got soggy. This time, they reduced the amount of olive oil in the pesto and served the salsa on the side in a small cup. They were confident they’d done a good job using local ingredients — Emily tallied 11 — but at Jr. Iron Chef, they’ll need to impress the judges with their presentation, too.

The Mount Abe kids know the competition will be tough this year. The powerhouse team at Twin Valley School in Whitingham swept three of the eight awards in 2013. That school’s cooking program is so popular that it has to hold a cook-off to select Jr. Iron Chef team members from about 80 participating students.

The best teams sometimes emerge from unexpected places. Last year, a group of soccer players from Charlotte Central School left the field and headed into the kitchen to secure a Best in Show award despite their relative inexperience.

But it takes more than strong teamwork and culinary creativity to win. Kids have to be able to roll with the punches under pressure. Last year, Peter Gebo’s team developed what they believed was a prize-worthy recipe for a swiss chard and kale frittata. But amid the nervous excitement of the competition, they accidentally added the garlic twice. “We call it the ‘Garlic Disaster,’” he said wryly.

Winning isn’t everything in this contest. Alexander said she’s more interested in helping the kids develop good knife skills and foster healthy eating habits. She’s watched her students learn and grow since they began practicing last fall. Take Ashley Aldrich, who’d never even heard of leeks or chard before she joined the team. Now she can cook with them — and present them — like a pro.

Back in the kitchen that February afternoon, Ashley and Emily practiced plating; they arranged two small rectangular torticotti on each plate. A small cup of salsa topped with a festive spiral of chopped red chard completed the look.

Meanwhile, Peter’s team did some quick math — how many knife cuts would yield 16 rectangular servings? — then topped each cube of the pasta bake with tomato sauce, grated Cabot cheddar and a dash of smoked paprika.

Finally, the kids got to sample their work. Were Peter’s spice additions a good idea? Would Emily and Ashley’s tortillas remain crisp? The students examined their plated food carefully, took a few notes for their next practice session and dug in.

“This is delicious!” someone exclaimed through a mouthful of pasta. Good thing table manners aren’t part of this competition. K

It’s about prepping food, learning skills and working together.

Kathy alexander

The 2014 Jr. iron chef Vermont competition is on march 22 at the champlain Valley exposition in essex Junction. info, jrironcheftvt.org.

Susan Brace, 19, and Walker Whittemore, 12, prepare for Jr. Iron Chef Vermont at Mount Abraham Union MiddleHigh School in Bristol.

We’re social!

How do you talk to your kids about death?

Brian EckErt SOUTH BURLINGTON

Sr. MultiMEdia SpEcialiSt, BEn & JErry’S; OwnEr, FOur QuartErS BrEwing. Son Barrett, 4; daughter Juniper, 18 months

When our son was younger, we had a dog that died. Barrett would ask, “Is he lost? Is he coming back? Can I help find him?” We tried to explain, but Barrett was too young to comprehend.

Now he’s starting to ask a million and one questions about death. We’re not sure where it’s coming from, but he asks a lot about ghosts. We’re not really religious, but we’re very spiritual. We’ve explained that people’s spirits are inside them and they live on without the body. I’ve been using this metaphor with Barrett: Imagine a cup with milk in it. The cup is like our bodies and the milk is the spirit. If the cup shatters, there’s still milk.

But we’ve also been trying to explain how life is finite, how when someone dies, you aren’t going to see them again.

derOn rEdMOnd BURLINGTON at-HOME dad

Daughter Annika, 8; son Andre, 2

In our belief system, there is an afterlife. After you pass on, you’ll go to heaven, you’ll be with Jesus. We include family members who have died in our prayers.

Two years ago, when my daughter was 6, my grandmother passed away. It was the first time Annika had had to deal with losing someone close, and she was sad and a little anxious when she first found out. She wanted to know what had happened to Grandma, and she worried that something might happen to one of us. We explained that we’re young and healthy and we’re not going anywhere. She was good with that.

We let her decide whether she wanted to go to the funeral, and she chose to go. But, last year, when my father-in-law died, she decided not to attend the memorial service. She said, “Why would I want to be around people who are sad and crying?”

We were good with that.

grEg BEMiS ESSEX JUNCTION

inStructOr, cHaMplain cOllEgE

Daughter Emma, 11; son Jack, 7

When our cat Hecubus died, the kids were young and they kind of shrugged it off. When our other cat, Lilith, died, Emma was 9 and Jack was 5. They knew she was old, and they seemed sad but not devastated.

But last year, we got a kitten from the shelter, and it died. She’d been listless and just wasn’t behaving like a kitten. Over the course of about five hours one night, we saw her spiral downward. In the middle of the night, we decided to take her to the emergency vet and woke Emma, who was very attached to the kitten, to let her know. We couldn’t let her wake up and go looking for the kitten, and then have to tell her it had died.

Emma was devastated, and Jack didn’t take it very well, either.

Jack has since asked, “Where do you go when you die?”

I tell him, “Some people believe this, and some people believe this. There are a lot of different belief systems out there. It’s up to you to find your own path.”

accOunt ExEcutivE, wcax-tv

Son Eli, 21; daughter Zoe, 15

We don’t have a really religious household. I’m agnostic, and my wife was raised Jewish. We don’t talk about an afterlife because we don’t think there is one. We think this is what you get.

I remember talking to both of my kids when my wife’s mom passed away. Eli was 15 and Zoe was 10. They saw her health rapidly going downhill. I think they understood that we were all glad to see her suffering end.

By then, they both had a reasonable idea of what death is. We live in the country. When they were small, we would take walks and find all sorts of things. Once, a moose died in the woods below our house, and they both saw it. Later, they called the turn in the trail where they’d seen the carcass “Dead Moose Turn.” We’ve lost pets — cats and fish. It’s what happens. It’s the circle of life.

carl wErtH WATERBURY CENTER

Imagine a cup with milk in it. The cup is like our bodies, and the milk is the spirit. If the cup shatters, there’s still milk.

Brian EckErt

Maple Sugaring

connected in a way because they’re closer in age to each other, and they want to get to know each other,” she said.

Festivities wrap up on March 15 with a 5K run and maple brunch. Senior Macy Wood can’t see why anyone would miss it. “What’s not to like?” she asked. “We’re taking something from nature and making it into sugary deliciousness.”

Visitors that day can tour the school’s 5-year-old post-and-beam sugarhouse, believed to be the only one operating in Burlington. The kids produced 70 gallons of syrup last year, most of which is served in the school dining room.

Sugaring SeaSon began at Burlington’s Rock Point School in February, when freshman Conor Southard and junior Jimmy Dollard each placed a hand on the trunk of a sugar maple. “We want to thank the maple trees for the sap they give us and the sweet syrup that we get to enjoy,” said their history teacher, Gus Buchanan, who accompanied them. “It’s a gift, both from the Earth and from the power of the tree.”

The boys echoed their teacher’s thanks, then cranked a hand drill into the maple and hammered in a metal spout, the first of some 200 spouts to be inserted by the 30 teens who attend the residential and day school.

Sugaring, long a tradition at the school, became part of the academic curriculum three years ago. In preparation for tapping trees, the kids study the history, culture, economic impact and how-tos of sugaring. Earlier this winter, they toured Swanton-based Leader Evaporator Company, which produces sugaring equipment. And now, said head of school C.J. Spirito, “we keep our fingers crossed that it is 20 degrees at night and 40 degrees in the day and the sap’s running.”

For nine days starting March 5, the school will welcome about 300 local children to tour its operation. Rock Point students will act as “maple ambassadors,” teaching visitors

— mostly preschool and elementary kids — what they have learned.

This is Stephyn O’Leary’s fourth year in the program. “I just love it,” said the senior, who wants to be a teacher someday. “I just love seeing their faces

Rock Point’s sugaring operation is traditional: No tubing connects the trees to the sugarhouse. Macy Wood’s job last season was to lug the sap in buckets to the holding tank that moves through the sugar bush on the back of a pickup truck. Is maple sugaring something Macy can tout on a future résumé? Maybe. More importantly, her instructors pointed out, she has mastered a skill. They hope she’ll use the experience as a template for mastering other skills in college and in the workforce.

Besides, sugaring at Rock Point is about more than the syrup; it’s about Vermont history, sustainability and helping kids become competent and confident. “It’s just kept me on an even keel,” said sophomore Nate Keeney of Starksboro. “Being in the woods is really nice.”

when they learn. Their eyes light up and they ask questions.”

Terri Relyea, assistant director of the Children’s Preschool and Enrichment Center in Essex Junction, plans to return for a tour this month with her preschoolers. On last year’s tour, they tapped a tree then caught sap with their fingers to taste it.

If you were to ask the kids, they would say the trip’s highlight was the maple sundaes they ate, Relyea said. But for her, it was watching high school students, rather than adults, interact with her preschoolers. “They’re more

rock Point students will lead one-hour tours of their sugaring operation March 5-14. to book one, contact Jean Waltz at 863-1104 or jwaltz@rockpoint.org.

the school’s Maple 5k run and Brunch are on saturday, March 15. for a schedule, visit rockpointschool.org/maple-runbrunch-2014. Proceeds benefit rock Point school’s sugaring program. Visit kidsvt.com to learn how to tap a tree in your own backyard.

Gus Buchanan at the Rock Point School sugarhouse

What’s not to like? We’re taking something from nature and making it into sugary deliciousness.

rocK PoinT ScHool Senior macy Wood

Family Extended

Vermont grandparents adopt a ‘kin-do’ attitude about raising their children’s kids

BY KEN PICARD

From left, Emily, 8, Brenda, 56, Alianna, 6, Zachary, 8, and Dyllan, 13

At 4:30 a.m. on Christmas Day, 2005, Brenda and Craig Hamlin received a phone call from a local hospital informing them that Craig’s daughter had just given birth to twins.

Most grandparents would be thrilled to receive such news. But the purpose of this call wasn’t to congratulate the Hamlins; it was to ask whether the couple planned to assume custody of the newborns. If not, the caller advised, the twins — born three months prematurely, addicted to cocaine and weighing just 2 pounds each — would immediately become wards of the state and be placed in foster care.

For the Hamlins, who didn’t even know Craig’s daughter was pregnant, saying no was never an option. “What were we gonna do?” Craig asks. “I could never see someone else taking care of them.”

So, on Christmas morning, the Hamlins drove to the hospital, where the babies’ mother terminated her parental rights. At the time, the couple was already raising three other kids, including the twins’ older brother, whom the couple had adopted six months earlier, a niece and their own daughter. “You don’t think about it,” Brenda says. “You just jump in with both feet.”

Fast-forward eight years. It’s shortly before 4 p.m. on a recent weekday when the twins, Zachary and Emily, now in second grade, get o the school bus and dash inside the Hamlins’ Essex home. The siblings couldn’t be more di erent: Zachary is tall, thin, dark-haired and taciturn; Emily is short, fair-skinned and bubbly. Both children have had physical and emotional problems due to being born prematurely to a drug-addicted mother who sought no prenatal care.

As Zachary flops sullenly onto the couch to watch TV with his older brother Dyllan, 13, Emily cheerfully climbs onto her grandpa’s knees to cuddle. All four kids in the house call Craig “Dad,” he says. “But they know the di erence. Emmy, whose belly did you come from?”

“Mama Shannon,” she answers, referring to Craig’s daughter.

“But who’s your mom?” he asks.

Emily points to Brenda and smiles.

Craig, 57, is a heavyset man with a raspy voice and a round, kindly face that strongly resembles his granddaughter’s. Seated at the kitchen table, he explains how years of working as a plumber wrecked his spine, forced him out of his job and left him disabled. As a result, Brenda, who’s 56, does much of the housework and childrearing.

The Hamlins are part of a national trend: An increasing number of American children are now growing up with family members who are not their biological parents, an arrangement referred to as “kinship care.” Experts say that grandparents

— especially grandmothers — are the most common parental surrogates.

A 2012 report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation found that nationwide, more than 2.7 million children were being cared for by relatives or close family friends — an increase of almost 18 percent over the last decade. That report, titled “Stepping Up for Kids: What Government and Communities Should Do to Support Kinship Families,” discovered that about one in 11 kids will live in kinship care at some point before the age of 18. The “vast majority” of those living arrangements are established informally within families rather than through a state foster-care system.

The Department for Children and Families confirms this trend in Vermont. Nearly 30 percent of children in DCF custody in December 2013 were placed with relatives, up from 16.9 percent in December 2010.

the next best option. In the last five years, the Vermont Department for Children and Families has made it a priority, whenever feasible, to place children with relatives before considering other avenues of foster care. It not only saves taxpayers money — about $35,000 a year per child, Audette notes — but results in better outcomes. Since kids tend to feel more comfortable with relatives than strangers, they’re more likely to stay in the home, finish school and remain in contact with siblings and other family members.

SECOND TIME AROUND

Childrearing presents unique challenges for those doing it the second time around. “Parents” in their sixties, seventies or even eighties may be up against declining health — either theirs or a spouse’s — or have limited financial resources. They may have di culty fitting in with a younger generation of parents. Raising kids can also strain relationships with spouses, children and other grandchildren who may feel jealous or resentful of the new family arrangement.

To help her navigate this rocky terrain, Brenda Hamlin and three other grandmothers founded Vermont Kin as Parents, a Williston nonprofit that serves as a resource for extended family members raising their non-biological children. The nineyear-old organization runs a number of support groups throughout the state, including the one in Milton that has helped Hamlin and others who have had young kids dropped in their laps without warning.

These percentages represent a significant number of kids; a 2012 report by Casey Family Services found that about 4,000 Vermont children, or about 3 percent of the state’s youth, were being raised by non-parent relatives. That figure likely doesn’t reflect the total number of relatives raising young kids without assuming legal custody or guardianship.

Wanda Audette, director of adoption services at Lund, the state’s oldest and largest adoption agency, reports that 43 percent of all adoptions finalized statewide in 2013 were by kin — up from 29 percent in 2012. That number is only expected to rise, she says.

Why are biological parents unable to raise their own o spring? Substance abuse, incarceration, mental illness or parental neglect may account for a parent’s absence. Less common reasons are military deployment, divorce, deportation, out-ofstate employment and death.

Now more than ever, kinship care is seen as

One of the group’s founders, Lynn Granger, serves as its executive director. She says she typically meets people in the “eggshell days,” when a grandchild, niece or grandnephew first arrives. She hears many of the same questions and concerns: How do I register my grandchild for school? Are there financial resources available for people like me? What are my legal rights and responsibilities? And how do I raise this child without ruining my marriage — or my sanity?

Granger, a grandparent herself who was 52 when her 2-year-old grandson came to live with her, says that one of her first bits of advice is to formally establish custodial rights. That’s not always necessary, especially if the living arrangement is temporary: the biological parent has a brief incarceration, for example, or is fully committed to a substance-abuse treatment program and likely to return to parenting.

However, Granger says those cases are rare. More commonly, if the child is expected to live with the relative for more than two months, she says, it’s “absolutely necessary” to establish legal guardianship. Such arrangements are essential for

An increasing number of American children are now growing up with family members who are not their biological parents, an arrangement referred to as “kinship care.”

enrolling kids in school, bringing them to a doctor, accessing medical records and caseworkers’ files, and obtaining health insurance and financial assistance.

Granger also tells grandparents and other relatives to “document everything” as objectively as possible, especially when dealing with government officials, police, social workers, guidance counselors and school administrators. The same goes for dealing with the child’s biological parents, she says, especially when those relationships are rocky and custody matters remain in limbo.

Granger, who often lobbies in Montpelier, describes Vermont as “middle of the road” when it comes to the resources available to parenting kin.

Though Vermont offers some financial assistance to parenting grandparents, some other states have “kinship navigators” who can help relatives through the system, find senior housing specifically devoted to grandparents raising kids, and assist with legal guardianship and adoption matters. She’d like to see the state do more to help grandparents who are stepping up to fill this unexpected role.

Hamlin’s husband, Craig, isn’t holding his breath. “I’ll take care of those kids, whether I can see them or not,” says the grandfather who is losing his eyesight as a result of diabetes. “Other people might say, ‘Geez, how can you do that?’ But I’m not looking for any pats on the back to tell me how great I’m doing. I just love my kids.”

GrandparenT Trap?

Monique, a 70-year-old grandmother in Milton, first discovered Vermont Kin as Parents through her grandson’s elementary school. The Québec native was 61 when her grown son and his new wife abandoned Monique’s 9-year-old grandson; the boy’s biological mother died when he was 4.

Monique — who asked that her last

name not be used — says she came to the group with many apprehensions about becoming a full-time parent again, especially because her husband wasn’t thrilled by the idea. Like other grandparents in her predicament, Monique and her husband postponed their retirement plans of traveling the country in an RV. And even though her grandson is now 18 — “a child in a man’s body, who makes lots of mistakes,” she laments — he still lives at home, which causes considerable friction between Monique and her husband of 52 years.

“The fears are always there. My fear is: We’re older. What’s going to happen to our grandson when we’re not there?” she asks. “Is he going to be able to take care of himself? Where’s he going to end up?”

Monique says that younger parents at her son’s school treat her differently. She tries to mingle with them, but generational barriers often get in the way. “They try, but I don’t feel like a part of the group because I’m the oldest one there, and there are things I can’t do,” she admits. “And I’m not part of all this computer stuff.”

“Marilyn,” a divorced grandmother from South Burlington who asked to remain anonymous, had just retired from IBM in Essex at age 63 when her 5-year-old grandson came to live with her. He finally moved out at age 18, when Marilyn turned 80. “I was just fortunate that my health held out,” she says.

Marilyn, now 82, still regularly attends the Milton support group. “You do feel that difference” when you’re around much younger parents, she explains. “They’ll offer you a chair when everyone else is standing. You realize that they’re treating you like an older person, which you are.”

Marilyn adds that many of her friends weren’t interested in doing things with kids while she was raising her grandson. Did it affect her friendships?

“I had friends who stuck by me. We

found a way around it, but it wasn’t the same,” she admits. “They were off doing things I couldn’t do because of obligations. Plus, you don’t retire thinking you’re going to raise another child. It gets expensive.”

Like all the grandparents interviewed for this story, Marilyn emphasizes that there were plenty of upsides to rearing grandchildren herself: watching them grow up, spending more time with them and doing activities with them she didn’t do with her own kids. Nonetheless, she feels she missed out on something.

“Just underneath it all, you’ve lost the role of the grandparent for these kids, which is sad,” Marilyn says. “You

look forward to taking your grandchild to a movie, to the circus, doing fun things like baking cookies. That’s all gone. Now you’re just doing the role of the parent all over again.” K

supporT Groups for GrandparenTs raisinG

Their Grandchildren meet regularly in Barre, Bellows Falls, Burlington, Milton, Montpelier, St. Johnsbury and Rutland. For more information about Vermont Kin as Parents, call 871-5104 or visit vermontkinasparents.org.

You look forward to taking your grandchild to a movie, to the circus, doing fun things like baking cookies. That’s all gone. now you’re just doing the role of the parent all over again.

marilyn

Hamlin helps Zachary, 8, with homework

Come See What the March Winds Have Blown In!

Jamie Two Coats Toyshop

Located in the ❤ of Shelburne Village

Monday-Saturday 10-6 Sunday 11-5 802-985-3221

Pregnancy is so much more than just your due date.

The providers at Central Vermont Women’s Health know that every s tep on your path to childbirth is an important one and that a healthy pregnancy starts before conception. It’s a great idea to get a medical checkup before getting pregnant to make sure your body is ready to have a baby.

We’ll talk together about:

• your family history

• medicines you take – including herbs

• whether your vaccinations are up-to-date

• medical conditions you have, like diabetes or high blood pressure. Here are 9 things to do before getting pregnant:

• Plan when you want to have a baby.

• Use reliable birth control until then.

• Take a daily multivitamin with 400 micrograms of folic acid to help reduce the risk of neural tube birth defects.

• Stop smoking, drinking alcohol and taking illegal drugs.

• Get a medical checkup.

• Eat healthy and get to your optimal weight.

• Do something active every day.

• Avoid exposure to harmful substances.

• Learn to manage your stress. There is nothing more important to us than your health and the health of your baby.

Please call 371.5961 to schedule a time for us to get together. My partners and I look forward to meeting you to talk about your plans to grow your family.

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

Way to PRe-K

Rick Davis is reimagining early-childhood education in Vermont

By kathryn flagg

RicK daVis, cofoundeR of The Permanent Fund for Vermont’s Children, can talk a blue streak about early-childhood development. But there’s one word, in all of his proselytizing, that you likely won’t hear: daycare.

“Most people think of daycare as the place where you drop the kids off on the way to work in the care of a nice person who loves kids,” he says.

Davis thinks the word “daycare” gives short shrift to the most important years in a child’s development. Citing the now-definitive science that shows 72 percent of a child’s brain is wired by the time he or she reaches 3 years old, Davis is leading the charge to reimagine early-childhood education in Vermont — and his vision goes way beyond daycare.

Davis wants to see every Vermont family have access to high-quality childcare. He believes the state could be the first in the country to offer universal preschool for both 3- and 4-year-olds.

He wants home childcare providers to have access to professional development and mentoring.

That’s particularly important in Vermont, he says, where 70 percent of the state’s nearly 20,000 infants and toddlers spend part of each day away from home while their parents work. That percentage is higher than the national average and every other New England state.

“Most people in Vermont today would think that early childhood is an important period of your life, but not that it’s the most important,” says Davis over a cup of coffee in his hometown of Stowe. He wants that to change. “Education doesn’t start in kindergarten. It doesn’t start at preschool, or 3 years old. It starts at birth.”

In many ways, Davis, 69, is an unlikely champion for this cause. The bushy-browed, charismatic reformer is neither an educator nor a biological

Rick Davis at Trinity Children’s Center in Burlington

dad; his wife, Lynn, already had four children — the youngest was 12 — when they married six years ago. He’s a real estate developer who’s spent his so-called golden years reinventing himself as one of the state’s most outspoken advocates for kids. Examining the issue from 30,000 feet up, Davis is seeking to leverage resources, inspire collaboration among funders and make strategic investments instead of piecemeal ones.

And his work is paying off.

According to Aly Richards, Governor Peter Shumlin’s director of special projects and intergovernmental affairs, Davis’ involvement on this front helped the state get a hefty $37 million Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge grant last December. The federal funds will

Trust Foundation, echoes Richards’ assessment. “He knows who to call, who to get in the room, who to invite to the meeting.”

And he has the ear of Vermont’s most powerful decision-makers. Davis recalls a meeting with Shumlin in the fall of 2012 during which the two discussed smart investments for the state. Davis says the governor asked him, “‘What’s your one big idea?’”

His response: affordable childcare for families. A few months later, Shumlin made a similar pitch to lawmakers during his 2013 State of the State address. He diverged from tradition and devoted his entire speech to one topic — education — and called for the state’s largest-ever single investment in early childhood education. Coincidence? Could be. But it fits with the picture painted by Davis’ admirers, who describe him as a guy who knows how to make things happen.

“Sometimes in the nonprofit world you can do a lot of discussing and meeting and presenting of charges, but it doesn’t always translate into action,” says Curt Fields, who heads up the New Jersey-based Turrell Fund, which frequently partners with the Permanent Fund. “Anything Rick is involved in leads to direct action.”

deVeloping an inTeresT in educaTion

beef up existing family programs and create new opportunities for everything from prenatal care to educator training.

“He’s just a natural leader on the issue,” says Richards.

In part, that’s because Davis puts his money where his mouth is: In 2000, he and a friend collectively ponied up $250,000 to start the Permanent Fund for Vermont’s Children. Davis has continued to fund the foundation, and he’s convinced others to help, too. This year, the Permanent Fund will dole out $1.2 million to finance strategic investments that support early-childhood development and mentoring in Vermont.

In 2006, Vermont selected Davis as its Philanthropist of the Year.

The fundraising honor points to another of Davis’ strengths: “He’s a connector,” says Richards.

Fagan Hart, the co-executive director of the Vermont Children’s

Davis stumbled into what would become a decades-long commitment to serving children and families in the early 1980s — thanks to some neighborhood kids who were up to no good.

A native Vermonter, Davis joined the Navy young, then shipped off to serve in Vietnam. He returned home at 26 and spent the next few years managing the Shelburne Shipyard and racing sailboats along the Burlington waterfront.

That’s when he started thinking seriously about redeveloping it. “There was nothing there,” says Davis. He started the Davis Company — where he still works one day a week — and in 1976 bought the old Champlain Mattress Company, renovating the property into what is now the Ice House restaurant and offices.

A few years later, Davis and a business partner bought the Holloway Block, across the street, at auction. One morning, when renovations were under way, he and his crew showed up to work and discovered that someone had broken in and stolen their tools. The culprits? Elementary and middle school

He knows who to call, who to get in the room, who to invite to the meeting.

Fagan HarT

Way

to Pre-K

continued froM P. 23

kids from the King Street neighborhood. Police found them that afternoon trying to hawk the tools on Church Street. When the police asked Davis if he wanted to press charges, he opted instead to sit down with the children and their families.

“Long story short,” he recalls now, he hired a few of the kids and put them to work on the Holloway Block. It was his first taste of mentorship — and he wanted more. Soon after, Davis was directing the board at the King Street Youth Center a few blocks away from the Holloway worksite. He set out to understand, as best he could, what growing up in poverty meant for the children in that neighborhood.

“I saw these kids that had the cards stacked against them from the day they were born,” says Davis. “I really wanted to try to create a level playing field.”

That’s part of what drove Davis to start the Permanent Fund in 2000. He’d put his day-to-day work at the Davis Company on hold to spend a few years in New York studying sculpture. At a crossroads, Davis realized he could either continue to focus on art, or he could return to Vermont and try to make a substantive difference in mentoring and early-childhood education. He’d seen firsthand how organizations serving children “cobbled together” funding, program by program, from various grants and foundations. Without collaboration among funders, Davis says, no one was looking at “systemic change.”

“He made the case that there’s an opportunity here to really change the game if we come together and make substantial investments in projects,” says Fields. “Rick kept at it until he demonstrated to all of us the power of banding together.”

Focusing on The LiTTLesT Learners

Over the years, Davis has shifted his focus to younger and younger children. Though the Permanent Fund still supports the mentorship work that initially inspired Davis, he realized that it wasn’t enough to intervene several years into a disadvantaged child’s life; the achievement gaps were starting, and widening, much earlier.

To that end, the Permanent Fund has been instrumental in supporting a few major projects in the State, chief among them, the Vermont Community Preschool Collaborative and, most recently, Vermont Birth to Three.

VCPC focuses on creating new, high-quality preschool opportunities for

3- and 4-year-olds. The project, driven by philanthropic dollars, provides startup grants and technical assistance to pre-K programs in their first two years of operation. Then, under Vermont’s pre-K funding law, the state steps in to fund the existing programs.

It’s been a tremendous success. Since 2005 VCPC has created nearly 1,700

permanent, publicly funded pre-K spots in more than 50 Vermont communities. School districts are reporting that kids who start kindergarten after attending pre-K are better equipped to learn. Davis estimates that upwards of 85 percent of superintendents in Vermont school districts now recognize the value of pre-K programs. The public

isn’t quite as convinced, he says, though that’s changing, too.

The Permanent Fund’s work has “really underscored the need for universal pre-K,” says Linda Allen, Hart’s coexecutive director at the Children’s Trust Foundation. Lawmakers in Montpelier are currently weighing a universal pre-K bill which, if passed, would guarantee every preschooler in Vermont at least 10 hours a week of high-quality, publicly funded education.

Vermont Birth to Three starts even earlier. The goal of this program, created in 2011, is to provide the best care possible for Vermont infants and toddlers. The program has focused on motivating, training and mentoring the home-based care providers who make up much of Vermont’s early childcare network. In just three years, VB3 has connected nearly 400 childcare providers — nearly half the state’s total — with mentors.

The quality of the care those young children receive, Davis says, is critically important. Children who participate in high-quality early-childhood programs are more likely to graduate and earn better wages.

And, he adds, investing early means saving money in the long run on other social services. Reduced special education, welfare and crime costs — as well as increased earnings and tax costs — tally up to returns of between $4 and $9 for every dollar spent on early-childhood programs, according to Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child.

These are the kinds of programs that will get a boost from Vermont’s Race To The Top funds. And the money isn’t the only evidence of momentum. In October, Shumlin’s office unveiled the state’s first-ever “road map” for earlychildhood programs and investments.

Now, early-childhood advocates are outlining benchmarks they hope to hit in coming months and years: Ninety percent of early-childhood programs should be rated by the Department for Children and Families’ STARS system; 100 percent of students with special needs should be in high-quality programing; childcare programs should receive bonuses for nutritional snacks and professional development.

“We’re off to the races,” says Aly Richards from the governor’s office.

Meanwhile, Davis is off to Sun Valley, to visit one of his nephews, who has three children under the age of 8. He says he and his wife, Lynn, can’t wait to have grandchildren. 

education doesn’t start in kindergarten.

It doesn’t start at preschool, or 3 years old. It starts at birth.

ricK daVis

M atthe W thorsen

Rick Davis with some friends at Trinity Children’s Center

CAMP GUIDE 2014

Survey Says...

Part II: Vermont parents sound o about sending kids to camp

BY CATHY RESMER

SO YOU’RE THINKING about sending your kids to summer camp. What questions should you ask camp administrators before sending in your deposit? What should you remember to pack? How do you deal with kids who get cold feet?

In this month’s Kids VT Camp Guide, we’re publishing more parent responses to our first-ever Camp Experience Survey. We asked our readers to share their knowledge about local summer camps, and they didn’t disappoint.

We heard from 129 respondents from all over the state. Nearly 90 percent said they plan to send their kids to at least one camp this summer. About 66 percent plan to enroll in more than one; 11 percent said they’d be signing up for five or more this year.

The experienced parents had lots of tips and suggestions to share. We’ve excerpted some of them here. Find more of their feedback in last month’s Camp Guide, available at kidsvt.com.

Part 2 Afterschool is offering Summer Camps

B-Tru Dance

FAMILY & MULTIPLE Class Discounts!

2014 caMP GUIDE

Survey Says…

What are the staff-to-child ratios?

Stacia Judd, colcheSter

Are age groups separated, or are kids of all ages mixed together?

Mary hyde, rutland

We’ve had disagreements with discipline at camps; I advise parents to ask a lot of “what if” questions in advance.

Sara Garland, eaSt Montpelier

I always ask friends if they know anything about a program prior to enrolling my child. And I check the Bright Futures website to see if the camp has had any state violations. tina carroll, colcheSter

How old are the lead camp counselors? What type of experience do they have managing large groups of multi-age children? What is the protocol for bullying behavior?

Kids VT contributor becky tharp, williSton

How often do you apply — or ask campers to apply — sunscreen?

MeliSSa hood, South hero

Sometimes I have found out after the fact that my children were taken off-site in a bus. When you sign a permission slip, camps don’t always give the details about what activity is happening when.

Kids VT contributor helen rock, burlinGton

What’s the plan if it never stops raining?

charlotte blend, winooSki

“What is the protocol for bullying behavior?”

is there anything you wish you’d asked before sending your child to camp?

How did you respond when your kid got cold feet before going to camp?

We just told him that every kid feels this way.

Brian Pine, Burlington

We talked on a regular basis, asking, “What do you think it will be like?” And we would talk about all the options, always in a good, positive way. I would make sure that I sounded excited, happy and waiting to hear all their stories when they got back.

reina Dean, Barre

A promised trip to the snack bar afterward did the trick to get him there. After the first day, he made friends and wanted to go, but didn’t want to give up the snack bar incentive, so it remained.

Joanna May, richMonD

My daughter always has anxiety, but then loves it. I just listen to her concerns and then concentrate on all the possibilities. I don’t give her a chance to back out, or she will.

erinn rolanD, WaterBury

Told her we had already paid a massive amount and there was no backing out now (and that she would have a great time).

Kids VT contriButor cinDy Morgan, ShelBurne

I would just say, “All I am asking is that you try it, and if you need me, I am only a phone call away.”

alliSon lafferty, colcheSter

camps k4t-SangamonBetsyCox1212.indd 1 11/28/12 4:15 PM

ages

plus adult & teen classes

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

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

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

www.flynnarts.org l 802-652-4548

“i am only a phone call away.”

MINI ADVENTURE CAMP (ages 3-5)

Mon – Fri, 9 AM – 4 PM

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

ADVENTURE CAMP (ages 6-12)

Mon – Fri, 9 AM– 4 PM

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

SATURDAy ADVENTURE CAMP (ages 6-12)

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

Jul 5 – Aug 23

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

MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURE CAMP (ages 8-17)

Mon – Fri, 9 AM – 4 PM

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

JUNIOR GOLF CAMP (ages 6-17)

Tue – Fri, 9:30 AM – 12 PM

Jul 8 – 11 and Aug 12 – 15

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

JUNIOR TENNIS CAMP (ages 8-14)

Tue – Fri, 9:30 AM – 12 PM

Jul 8 – 11 and Aug 12 – 15

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

ALSO AVAILABLE

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

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

• Private and Group Mountain Bike Guide Service for all levels

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

Sustainable Shelter

Dwelling within the Forces of Nature

What can we learn from nature to make our dwellings more sustainable parts of the earth’s natural systems?

See the many ways that animals and humans create shelter, and how they relate to the environment.

FRIENDS FOREVER

The Balancing Act Enrichment Center

• Preschool program ages 3-5 years

• After-school program options available ages 3-12

• Experienced teachers dedicated to the development of the whole child

• Encouraging learning, laughter and positive social interactions while focusing on stages of early childhood development

• Weekly lessons with USAG-certified gymnastics coaches

• Daily play in our gymnastics facility and outdoor exploration in our play yard & nature trails

• Nutritious snacks and lunch provided and prepared on site

Gymnastics

Was

Postcards, plain paper and stamps

Sylvie vidrine, HineSburg

Bible

Scott reynoldS, Waterbury center

Laundry detergent and quarters

donald van noStrand, concord, neW HampSHire

More sweatshirts/pants

meliSSa Hellyer, burlington

Crazy Creek camp chair

JeSSica oSki, burlington

A pack of cards

brenda gaulin, vergenneS

Seems like every year was something different: Mosquito netting, personal fan. Extra blanket. Last year, she brought a fulllength mirror. And, no, it wasn’t fashion camp.

Kids VT contributor tHea leWiS, burlington

242 Main Academy presents

Hip Hop, Broadway/Tap & African/Latin

12-18 years • June 16-20

6-11 years • June 23-27

M-F 9-2:30

Jazz dance for kids!

Onstage at Memorial Auditorium Burlington, VT Monday-Friday 9AM-2:30PM

amirault@burlingtontelecom.net

2014 Summer Dance with Karen Amirault

Field Trips Include:

Camp Dates: June 18 - August 3

Ages: 5 - 11 years

Daily Activities: swimming & water games sports & games arts & crafts and more! www.uvm.edu/recreation/adc

“Laundry detergent & quarters”

there something you wish you had packed for sleepaway camp but didn’t?

Survey Says…

WORK. Sigh. Charlotte Blend, Winooski

Spend quality time with my other child.

Jen niCholson, Williston

Some days I’m working; other days I can get all my errands done or just spend some time on me.

sharon lauB, south Burlington

The normal stuff, but it’s a good time for me to go through their clothes and toys. It’s easier to get rid of that toy that has been broken or the clothes that are too small.

reina dean, Barre

Go out for dinner. Go see a

movie that doesn’t involve animation or vampires!

lynn BruCe, stoWe

Cook spicy and other foods that our daughter does not enjoy; quiet time — almost too quiet!

sue Wear, ColChester

I work and ride my mountain bike while my kids are at camp. This year, I’m planning to go to a mountain bike camp just for adults!

Kids VT ContriButor BeCky tharp

Miss them! And go away with my husband for a few days.

laura standard, Burlington Farm.

JessiCa Breault, linColn K

“Go see a movie that doesn’t involve animation or vampires!”

Next month: Find out what local kids think about going to camp.

What do you get to do while your child is away at camp?

For advanced students entering grades

who want to have fun while learning! Johnson

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

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

MARCH CALENDAR

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

Move over sugar, Splenda, stevia and Sucanat. Vermont’s liquid gold takes center stage during the 13th annual MAPLE OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND

Sugarhouses from Huntington to Highgate welcome visitors eager to see how sugarmaple sap is boiled down to make syrup. Other activities include horse-drawn tours through the sugar bush, pancake breakfasts and live music. Maple-themed delicacies such as doughnuts, candies and sugar-onsnow sweeten the deal.

MAPLE OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND: Saturday, March 22, and Sunday, March 23, various times at participating sugarhouses statewide. All ages. Free. Visit vermontmaple.org to find a list of events and locations.

The Sw test Thing

SPOTLIGHTS AND LISTINGS BY ALISON NOVAK

4 TUESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: Moms bring their pre-crawling kids to an all-levels flowing yoga class addressing sore shoulders and back pain through gentle core work. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 10:30-11:45 a.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: Mothers-to-be build strength, stamina, comfort and a stronger connection to their baby in this all-levels class. Free class coupons are available through midwives and OB/GYNs. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 4-5:30 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

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

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Fantastically Fun 'Frushi': Kiwi, pineapple, mango and sweet coconut rice take the place of traditional sushi ingredients in this fruity take on a Japanese delicacy. Recommended for children ages 6 and up. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per adult-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Games

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

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: Energy-filled kids flip, jump and tumble in a state-of-the-art facility. Ages 6 and under. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Essex, 11 a.m.-noon, $8. Info, 655-3300.

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

Open Gym with Kati Furs: Active tots ages 5 and under tumble and jump through a drop-in gymnastics class. River Arts, Morrisville, 1011:30 a.m. $5 for one child; $8 for two children; $10 for three or more children. Info, 888-1261.

Shelburne Open Gym: Tumbling tots burn energy on trampolines, balance beams, rings and more. Gymstar Gymnastics, Shelburne, noon & 2 p.m. $3-6. Info, 985-8948.

South Burlington Public Skating: Skaters of all ages lace up and hit the rink. Cairns Arena, South Burlington, 1-2:30 p.m. $2-5; $3 skate rental. Info, 658-5577.

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

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

Library & Books

Stories On The Screen: The library screens television programs for little ones in collaboration with Vermont Public Television. Ages 5 and under. South Burlington Community Library, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Music

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

Nature & Science

ECHO Story Explorers: Down Under: Little listeners learn about animals who spend the winter burrowed beneath snow and ice. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 2. Info, 864-1848.

5 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Open Studio: Young artists drop in to work on a variety of 2-D and 3-D projects. Ages 5-12. Catamount Arts, St. Johnsbury, 1-3 p.m. $5; preregister. Info, 748-2600; ext. 108.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: Brand-new mamas and their babies relax, stretch and bond. For moms with babies 1 year and under. Emerge Yoga, Montpelier, 10-11 a.m. $12. Info, 778-0300.

Annual Youth Triathlon 2014: Ages 6-7: Swim 100 yards, bike 10 minutes, run 0.5 miles; ages 8-10: Swim 200 yards, bike 15 minutes, run 1 mile; ages 11 and up: Swim 300 yards, bike 20 minutes, run 1.5 miles. The first 30 children registered receive free T-shirts. Certificates will be awarded, and race-day snacks will be provided. Great event for beginner and experienced athletes. March 30, 1 p.m., at Greater Burlington YMCA at the Pomerleau Family Y. $25/first child; $15/each additional child in the family. Info: Jess Lukas, 652-8143 or jlukas@gbymca.org.

Busy Bodies: Stretch and strengthen little bodies. Toddlers ages 2.5-4 are eager to explore and release their excess energy and channel it into new grooves, including improvisational dance, gymnastics, yoga and ballet. Adults can join the class, too. Eight Thursday sessions, beginning March 6, 10-10:45 a.m. $55/members; $70/nonmembers. Location: Winooski YMCA, 32 Mallets Bay Ave. Info: gbymca.org, 655-YMCA.

Family Sled-Dog Rides: Enjoy a ride with the team from These Woods Kennels, a small sleddog racing kennel and touring operation based in Jericho. In business for more than 30 years, These Woods Kennels runs only pure-bred Siberian huskies. March 8, 2-4 p.m. $35/family (residents); $45/family (nonresidents). Location: Miller Community Recreation Center, Kid’s Room, 130 Gosse Ct., Burlington. Info: Burlington Parks and Recreation, 864-0123. To register, visit enjoyburlington.com.

Farmhouse Day Camp in July: Summer fun for 6- to 11-year-olds in a charming Queen Anne farmhouse on Pleasant Valley Road in Underhill. Chess in the garden; doughnuts in the kitchen; art and drama on the porch. These activities and more are designed to nurture your child’s creative, intellectual and social growth in a relaxed environment. We will explore 75 acres of fields, woods and brooks and take walks to the town pond for a swim. Each day also includes an academic activity individually designed for your child by an experienced teacher. Five weeklong sessions, June 30 through August 1, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $250/week, $200/ additional siblings. Extended day, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., additional $20/day. Info: Lisa Tomasi-Carr, 202-210-2847, ltomasicarr@maret.org.

Flipping, Dancing, Cheering: This noncompetitive class is for all levels and keeps kids moving! We start with fun activities to learn about eight-counts, then kids help pick out songs to dance to from popular, appropriate choices. We work on basic to intermediate tumbling skills and learn proper form for jumps, rolls, roundo s, cartwheels and more. We merge our new skills at the end of the session for a show for family and friends. Ages 5-12. Instructor: Ila Sewall of GymKids Academy Inc. Weekly on Thursdays, March 27 through May 15, 6-7:15 p.m. $75/residents; $86/nonresidents.

CP Smith Elementary School Gymnasium, 332 Ethan Allen Parkway, Burlington. Info: Burlington Parks and Recreation, 864-0123. To register, visit enjoyburlington.com.

Gymnastics: Make friends and gain body confidence while perfecting skills such as roundo s, handstands, walkovers and all kinds of cartwheels! We practice balance moves and dance steps and try new things in a noncompetitive atmosphere. Ages. 5-12. Instructor: Ila Sewall of GymKids Academy, Inc. Weekly on Mondays, March 24 through May 12, 6-7:15 p.m. $70/ residents; $80/nonresidents. Edmunds Middle School Cafeteria, 275 Main St., Burlington.

Info: Burlington Parks and Recreation, 8640123. To register, visit enjoyburlington.com.

Hula-Hoop Team: Join the Hoop Team’s second year of hooping. The group will perform at Kid’s Day on May 10 and Hoopapalooza in City Hall Park. Instructor: Nicole Stevenson from Hooping with Nicole. Stevenson instructs hula-hooping for fun and fitness throughout Burlington. Improve your hooping skills with each class. Participants make and decorate their personal hula-hoop for the team. Ages 5-12. Weekly on Wednesdays, March 26 through May 7, 6-7 p.m. No class April 23. $40/ residents; $50/nonresidents. Edmunds Middle School Cafeteria, 275 Main St., Burlington.

Info: Burlington Parks and Recreation, 8640123. To register, visit enjoyburlington.com.

Illustration: Class will look at imagery in children’s books and discover how thoughts and feelings are conveyed through pictures. Each student will develop his or her own illustration style through the exploration of paints, pastels, inks, pencil and collage. Ages 5-7. Instructor: Liz Kau man. Weekly on Tuesdays, March 11 through April 22, 3-5 p.m. No class April 15. $110/members; $135/nonmembers. Helen Day

Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: education@helenday.com, 253-8358, helenday.com.

Learning From Great Sculptors: Art history comes alive as students learn design techniques by studying the styles of celebrated artists. Inspired by both traditional and modern artworks, budding sculptors develop their style as they create unique sculptures using a variety of materials such as kiln-fired clay, wood, mixed media and metal. Ages 8-12. Instructor: Stephanie Drews-Sheldon. Weekly on Mondays, March 10 through April 21, 3-5 p.m. No class April 14. $110/members; $135/nonmembers. Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: education@ helenday.com, 253-8358, helenday.com.

Photography and Mixed Media: Using digital cameras, students will incorporate photos into various mixed-media pieces, learning to experiment with photographic images using many di erent tools. Students will have the opportunity to break into 3-D as we conclude the program by using photography in foundobject sculpture. Ages 3-6. Instructor: Kelly Holt. Weekly on Thursdays, March 6 through April 10, 3-5 p.m. No class March 27. $90/ members; $115/nonmembers. Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: education@ helenday.com, 253-8358, helenday.com.

Snowboard Design Workshop: Little artists with a love of snowboarding bring their excitement about riding into the studio! Using sketching and photography, participants design unique motifs and decals for snowboards while exploring cool trends and awesome innovation in snowboard design. Ages 5-10.

Instructor: Kelly Holt. March 8, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $25/person. Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: education@helenday. com, 253-8358, helenday.com.

Stop-Motion Animation with Clay: From storyboard to camera, campers develop a script and make clay characters, cardboard sets and sound for their own animation. Campers study innovative short animation from around the world, make a flip book and learn about optical toys. Camp wraps up with a special screening. Ages 8-12. Instructor: Leif Goldberg. April 14-18, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $275/members; $300/nonmembers. Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: education@ helenday.com, 253-8358, helenday.com.

Study Strategies for Success: Does your teen leave projects until the last minute? Have

di culty with organization? Struggle with multistep assignments? If so, join us on April 10. This seminar will cover strategies for improving organization, time management, homework completion and study skills. $25 for registrations received by March 15; $35 after. Info: 878-2332, sterncenter.org.

Tiny Tots: Fun and fitness for the 1- to 2.5-year-old set. Toddlers are ready to play and move; they’ll do plenty of both at Tiny Tots. Dance, jump, tumble and play games! Get those bodies moving and make social connections with others along the way. Eight Thursday sessions beginning March 6, 1111:40 a.m. $55/members; $70/nonmembers.

Location: Winooski YMCA, 32 Mallets Bay Ave. Info: gbymca.org, 655-YMCA.

WildThings! Nature Program: Calling all librarians, daycare providers and preschool teachers: Gather up your 3- to 8-year-olds for a 45-minute program focused on teaching children about the wonders of the natural world, led by a certified elementary-education teacher. Each month, we’ll explore a di erent nature theme through literature, art and outdoor exploration. Call to book a time; I’ll travel to you! Cost: $75 per visit. Info: wilthingsvt. com, wildthingsvt@gmail.com, 872-9987. wingspan Studio, Burlington: Join us in the magical studio of a real working artist to explore foreign lands, “math-magical” patterns and shapes in nature, the French language, African art, music, and more. Through the lens of visual art and movement, your child’s creativity will come alive. Check our website for upcoming o erings and let your imagination soar! Led by Maggie Standley, professional artist, educator. Info: Maggie Standley, 233-7676, wingspanpaintingstudio.com.

Yoga and Art: Movement, mindfulness and art come together in this multifaceted class about self-awareness and self-expression. Through drawing, painting, yoga and meditation, students explore themes of friendship, dreams and imagination while engaging the senses and enjoying the moment. Ages 7-11. Instructor: Megan Bisbee. Weekly on Wednesdays, March 5 through April 9, 3-5 p.m. $110/member; $135/nonmembers. Helen Day Art Center, 90 Pond St., Stowe. Info: education@helenday. com, 253-8358, helenday.com.

Cla es List your class or camp here for only $20 per month! Submit the listing by the 15th at kidsvt.com or to classes@kidsvt.com.

MARCH CALENDAR

5 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)

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

Dance

Golden Dragons Acrobats: Spectacular Chinese performers blend traditional and modern acrobatics, dance, aerial stunts and contortion in the breathtaking "Cirque Ziva." Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 7 p.m. $15-38. Info, 863-5966.

Health & Fitness

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

Essex Open Gym: See March 4.

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

Kids Yoga: Playful breathing, stretching and relaxation techniques build mindfulness and body awareness. Ages 6-12. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

Lyndon Center Public Skating: Graceful gliders circle the ice at this Northeast Kingdom rink. All ages. Fenton W. Chester Ice Arena, Lyndon Center, 2:45-4:15 p.m. $4-5; $3 for skate rentals. Info, 626-9361.

Shelburne Open Gym: See March 4.

South Burlington Public Skating: See March 4. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers Open Gym: See March 4.

Story Times

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TUESDAY

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

Barre Children’s Story Hour: See Monday. Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

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

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

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

Georgia Pajama Story Time: Georgia Public Library, third Tuesday of every month, 6:307:30 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.

Hinesburg Preschool Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 473-2597.

Vergennes Kids Yoga: Flexible yogis stretch out, play, meditate and rejuvenate. Grades K-3.

2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 3:15-4:15 p.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

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

Library & Books

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

Dorothy Canfield Fisher Book Discussion:

Claire Legrand's Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls is at the center of a spirited conversation between 8- to 11-year-olds. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

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

Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: CarpenterCarse 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY

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

Essex Junction Preschool Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

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

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

Highgate Toddler and Preschool Story Time: Highgate Public Library, 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

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

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

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

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

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

Richford PJ Story Time: Arvin A. Library, every other Wednesday, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 370-4797.

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

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

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

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

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

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

THURSDAY

Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Mondday. 10:30 a.m.

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

Fairfax PJ Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, first Thursday of every month, 6:307:30 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Northfield Children’s Story Time: See Monday. Thursdays, 10-11 a.m.

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 Hour: See Monday. Thursdays, 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

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

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

Essex Musical 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.

Music

Moving & Grooving With Christine: Tots let loose to the rhythms of rock-and-roll and world music. Recommended for ages 2-5, but all are welcome. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

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

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

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

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

Montpelier Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

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, 652-7539.

St. Johnsbury Story Time: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 748-8291. Stowe Baby & Toddler Story Time: Stowe Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145.

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

SATURDAY

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

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

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

Franklin Story Hour: Haston Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

South Burlington Story Time: See Wednesday.

Winooski Story Hour: Winooski Memorial Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 655-6424.

SUNDAY

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

6 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

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

Baby & maternity

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

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 5:457:15 p.m.

Essex La Leche League: Moms bring their little ones to a discussion of parenting and breastfeeding. Pregnant and planning moms are also welcome. First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, first Thursday of every month, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 383-8544.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 8:4510 a.m.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4.

itty Bitty Public skating: Tiny feet learn the art of sliding on ice through fun and games. Ages 5 and under. Leddy Park, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. $8 per family; $1 skate rentals. Info, 865-7558. open Gym with Kati Furs: See March 4.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See March 4.

Library & Books

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

music

music for Preschoolers: Lively tunes with Peter Alsen or Derek Burkins strike the right note among the wee crowd. Ages 5 and under with a caregiver. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free; limited to one session per week per family. Info, 878-4918. music With mr. chris: Singer and storyteller Chris Dorman leads kids in music and dance. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810. spanish musical Kids: Niños celebrate Spanish through Latin American songs and games. Ages 1-5 with a caregiver. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Nature & science

Journey From sap to syrup: Wee ones tap a tree, collect buckets of sap and watch it boil into thick syrup. Taste tests guaranteed. Ages 3-5. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

Parenting

simplicity Parenting series: Moms and dads learn how to slow down their schedules and deepen their relationships with their kids. Designed for parents with children ages 3-12. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 7-9 p.m. $20 per person; $30 per couple. Info, 985-2827, ext. 12.

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

7 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

crafternoons: Art-minded kids get the weekend off to a creative start. Grades 4-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

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

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

Baby & maternity

New Parents Playgroup: Moms and dads of young babies provide support to each other as they navigate the adventures of parenthood. Birth Journeys, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $3 per family. Info, 324-8809.

Education

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

Games

Lego club: Builders fashion architecturally sound constructions. Ages 7-12. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. magic: The Gathering: Planeswalkers seek knowledge and glory in this trading-card game. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4. marshfield open Gym: Elementary aged-kids burn off steam after school with ball games and activities. Children must be supervised by parents or caregivers. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581. shelburne open Gym: See March 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

Library & Books

songs & stories With matthew: Musician Matthew Witten helps kids start the day with tunes and tales of adventure. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Toddler Time: Books, rhymes, crafts and fingerplays help young learners build literacy skills. Ages 1-3. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

music

Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: Toe-tapping good tunes captivate kiddies. Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 660-9346.

music With derek: The wee crowd convenes to shake out their sillies with tune-filled activities. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

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

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.

Nature & science

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

Timber Rattlesnakes Talk: Scientist Christopher Jenkins gives an overview of this noisemaking snake's biology and discusses efforts to conserve the species in New England. Unitarian Church of Montpelier, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. Info, 229-6206.

Theater

'Gypsy': Very Merry Theatre teens perform this Broadway musical based on the memoirs of provocative performer Gypsy Rose Lee. Champlain College, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 355-1461.

Lightwire Theater: Puppetry, technology, music and dance come together for an illuminating event. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 8 p.m. $20. Info, 388-1436.

8 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

circus spectacular: Clowns, high-flying trapeze stunts, aerial silks, juggling and much more entertain audiences at this annual fundraiser for the New England Center for Circus Arts. All ages. Latchis Theater, Brattleboro, 7:30 p.m. $10-50. Info, 254-9780.

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

Fashion design class: Young designers transform drab duds into trendy new styles using cutting, painting and re-sewing techniques. Ages 8-12. BCA Center, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166.

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

Kids craft: H is for Hippo: Crafters make a hippopotamus from paper cut-outs. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646.

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

snowboard design Workshop: Small shredders make unique motifs and decals for their boards using sketching and photography. Ages 5-10. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $25; preregister. Info, 253-8358.

Webby's Art studio: Wire Wire Everywhere: Innovative kids mold flexible, child-friendly wire into sculptures inspired by John Bisbee's "New Blooms" exhibit. Ages 5 and up. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular winter museum admission, $3-10; free for members. Info, 985-3346.

Baby & maternity

Pregnancy & Baby Expo: More than 35 vendors showcase their services related to pregnancy, birth and parenting. Seminars and giveaways round out the day. Holiday Inn, South Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $6; free for children. Info, 363-9597.

community

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

Outside Influence

families team up at Bolton Valley resort for the first-ever WiNTRy WANdER, a snowy, all-ages scavenger hunt sponsored by the Green mountain adventure racing association. to start, groups receive “passports” and maps showing on- and off-trail checkpoints. after an orienteering clinic, teams scatter on snowshoes to find as many checkpoints as they want within three hours. each is marked with an orangeand-white flag and contains a unique hole punch allowing participants to “stamp” their passports. after the race, competitors warm up with hot cocoa and an awards ceremony. “it’s really about having a good time together,” says Gmara president and cofounder chris yager.

WiNTRy WANdER: Saturday, March 8, 8:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Bolton Valley Resort. $5 per person; free for children in backpacks and sleds. All ages. Info, 734-8514. gmara.org

Food

chocolate Bar making: Budding chocolatiers learn about tempering and moulding, then create and wrap four goody-filled bars to take home. Children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult. South End Kitchen, Burlington, 10-11 a.m. & 2:30-3:30 p.m. $25. Info, 864-0505. 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, 537-4754.

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, 753-7269. sugar-on-snow Party: Families sample the state's "liquid gold" on ice and enjoy boiling demonstrations, a petting zoo, hay rides and live music. All ages. Palmer's Sugarhouse, Shelburne, noon-4 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5054.

Health & Fitness

dJ skate Night: The entire family gets its groove on with classic roller-rink-style ice skating. All ages. Memorial Sports Center, Middlebury, 8-10 p.m. $3-5. Info, 388-1238.

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

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 5, 2-3:45 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4, 9 & 10 a.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 2:40-4:10 p.m.

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

Wintry Wander: Adventurous families snowshoe through the woods in search of checkpoints during this three-hour race sponsored by the Green Mountain Adventure Racing Association. All ages. (See calendar spotlight on page 44.) Bolton Valley Resort, 8:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m. $5 per person; free for children in backpacks and sleds; preregistration recommended. Info, 734-8514.

Library & Books

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

meet Liza Woodruff: The local author and illustrator reads from her newest winter-themed romp, If It's Snowy and You Know It, Clap Your Paws. All ages. Brown Dog Books & Gifts, Hinesburg, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 482-5189. minute To Win it!: Fast-moving youngsters compete in 60-second challenges to win treasure chest prizes. All ages. South Burlington Community Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

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

movies

movies for Everyone series: The funny and moving 1973 version of Charlotte's Web is the featured flick at this family screening. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

'Pasghetti Western' Premiere: The red carpet is rolled out to celebrate this adorable Vermont-made movie, featuring a cast of kids and miniature ponies. All ages. Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 7 p.m. $28. Info, 457-3981.

Nature & science

Bird-monitoring Walk: Beginning birders embrace ornithology on an identification walk. Appropriate for older children. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 8-10 a.m. Donations accepted. Info, 434-3068.

Build a Better Battery: A lab-coat investigation allows young scientists to make and measure electric energy. Ages 9 and up. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. EcHo story Explorers: down Under: See March 4.

Fossils: Evidence of the Past: Youth sleuths clue into the origins of preserved remains. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

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

Night sky: See March 7. 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.

Theater

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

'Gypsy': See March 7, 2 & 7 p.m. 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.

9 SUNDAY

Arts & crafts

circus spectacular: See March 8, 1 p.m.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 10:05-11:30 a.m.

community

Fancy shmantzy dance Party: Funky families boogie down with hula hoops and balloons during this Gan Yeladim Preschool fundraiser. Arts and crafts and face painting satisfy those in a mellower mood. Ages 8 and under. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, 2-4 p.m. $6 per person; $18 maximum per family. Info, 859-9317.

Jay Peak sleigh Rides: See March 8.

Education

Homework Help: Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences students tutor individuals or small groups in reading, math and science. Grades 1-8. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Food

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 8.

Health & Fitness

Essex Big Kids open Gym: Agile tumblers ages 7 to 12 practice their moves on state-of-the-art equipment. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Essex, 2:30-4 p.m. $10. Info, 655-3300.

Essex open Gym: See March 4, 1-2:30 p.m. Lyndon center Public skating: See March 5, 12:30-2:30 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See March 4.

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

Nature & science

Fingerprints: Kids get up close and personal with their prints, exploring what makes them unique. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Night sky: See March 7.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 8. sound science: Keen listeners explore how audio travels through different materials. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Theater

'Gypsy': See March 7, 6 p.m. mermaid Theatre of Nova scotia: Puppeteers present a stage adaptation of three of Leo Lionni's Caldecott Honor-winning books, featuring an ingenious fish, a poetic mouse and a precise inchworm. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 2 p.m. $15-25. Info, 863-5966.

10 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

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

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

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4.

itty Bitty Public skating: See March 6.

Little Yogis: Music, games and creative movement encourage the bitty set to play and learn. Ages 18 months-3 years with a caregiver. 2

Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 9-10 a.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

Preschool Yoga: Preschool posers develop their practice away from caregivers with music, storytelling and creative movement. Ages 3-5. 2

Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4, 9 a.m., noon, 2 & 5 p.m. stowe Public skating: See March 4.

Library & Books

Elementary Reading Buddies: Students in grades K-5 partake in one-on-one reading time with 8th grade volunteers. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Nature Tales story Time: Planet-loving preschoolers have fun with environmentally focused books, songs and rhymes. Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

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

music

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

music for Preschoolers: See March 6, 10:45 a.m.

shake Your sillies out: Tots swing and sway to music with children's musician Derek Burkins. Center Court, University Mall, South Burlington, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-1066.

11 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

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

Teen Art studio: llustrator Evan Chismark works with young drawers to make creative works. Ages 11-18. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 253-8358.

Baby & maternity

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

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See March 4.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See March 4.

Education

Homework Help: See March 9, 4:30-7:30 p.m. school observation morning: Prospective parents get a chance to see pre-K through eighth grade classes in session, meet faculty and ask questions. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 985-2827, ext. 12.

Food

Grains, Nuts, Beans & seeds: Biodynamic farmer and food activist Doug Flack explores traditional ways to prepare nutrient-dense foods to maximize their taste, nutrition and digestibility. Workshop includes samples and family-friendly recipes to take home. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 7 p.m. Free; RSVP by email. Info, jdennee@lakechamplainwaldorfschool.org.

Kids in the Kitchen: Food science: Kitchen chemists get hands-on experience churning cream into butter and making Oobleck from cornstarch and water. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per adult-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4. Family-Friendly Yoga: See March 4. open Gym with Kati Furs: See March 4. shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. stowe Public skating: See March 4. Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 4.

Library & Books

Gaming For Teens & Adults: Players of all skill levels engage in Magic: The Gathering and other tabletop amusements. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult or have parental permission to attend. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5-7:45 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216. Glow-in-the-dark Party: After a short reading of Bedtime Math 2: This Time it's Personal!, kids build their own geometric creations with glowsticks and styrofoam balls. Ages 3 and up. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

music

children's sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See March 4.

Nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: sugaring: Sweet-toothed tots learn about the maple-syrupmaking process, then take a taste test. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 2. Info, 864-1848.

12 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

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

Baby & maternity

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

dance

Folk dancing: Sue Morris teaches traditional moves to hoofers of all ages and abilities. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:45 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Education

Early childhood day at the Legislature: Hundreds of early childhood professionals, parents and employers mark the occasion with meetings with legislators, guest speakers and community discussions. Vermont Statehouse, Montpelier, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $30 includes breakfast, lunch and activities; preregister by March 7; scholarships and childcare available by request. Info, 272-1218.

High school observation mornings: Students and parents interested in finding out more about the Waldorf philosophy in practice sit in on classes, meet teachers and ask questions. Lake Champlain Waldorf High School, Charlotte, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 985-2827, ext. 12.

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

Games

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

Health & Fitness

Adventures to Fitness: See March 5. Essex open Gym: See March 4.

EvoKids Afterschool Yoga: See March 5. Kids Yoga: See March 5.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 5. shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 4. Vergennes Kids Yoga: See March 5. Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: See March 5.

Library & Books

maker space: Hackers-in-training learn the skill of soldering, then build a unique minielectronic project with the help of staff from Burlington's Laboratory B. Ages 9-adult. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6 p.m. Free; preregistration required. Info, 878-4918.

music

moving & Grooving With christine: See March 5. music with Ellie: Youngsters sing and dance with this popular music educator. Ages 5 and under. Kids City, South Burlington, 10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 859-9130.

Preschool music With derek: See March 5. Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See March 5.

Nature & science

Little Explorer Program: Preschoolers discover their community through hands-on exploration of nature topics including farming, sugaring and gardening. Ages 3-5. Highgate Public Library, 11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

maRCh CalEndaR

13 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: See March 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 5:457:15 p.m.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 8:4510 a.m.

Education

History for Homeschoolers: See March 12.

Games

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

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4. itty Bitty Public skating: See March 6. open Gym with Kati Furs: See March 4. shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. stowe Public skating: See March 4.

Library & Books

make a Leprechaun Trap: Kids in grades K-5 celebrate St. Patty's Day with a holiday craft. Participants ages 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

middle school Planners & Helpers: Students play games and plot cool projects for the library over snacks. Grades 6-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

music

music for Preschoolers: See March 6. music With mr. chris: See March 6.

Parenting

simplicity Parenting series: See March 6.

Theater

'Willy Wonka': Elementary school students perform a play featuring Roald Dahl's wacky confectioner. Edmunds Elementary School, Burlington, 12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 355-1461.

14 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

crafternoons: See March 7. Family Wheel drop-in: See March 7. Kinder Arts: See March 7.

Baby & maternity

Postpartum Group: New moms discuss nutrition, adjustments at home and self and newborn care over tea. Babies welcome. Tapestry Midwifery, Vergennes, 12:30-2 p.m. Free. Info, 877-0022.

community

Parents Night out: Youngsters partake in gymnastics, dinner and fun activities sans mom and dad. Ages 4 and up. Cobra Gymnastics & Dance, Rutland, 6-9 p.m. $16-18 per child; $40 for 3 or more children in the same family. Info, 772-7011.

Education

Early Bird math: See March 7. Homeschool Project day: Out-of-classroom learners share their current projects with an audience of parents and siblings. Grades K-12. Milton Public Library, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Games

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

movies

Family movie: 'cloudy with a chance of meatballs 2': Flint and his friends attempt to save the world from food beasts in this animated feature. Popcorn and soda provided. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:10 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

music

Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See March 7.

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

Nature & science

Night sky: See March 7.

Theater

'Willy Wonka': See March 13, 7 p.m.

15 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

craft school saturday drop-in: See March 8. Family Art: Little ones and grown-ups use a variety of materials to create unique masterpieces. All ages. ArtisTree Community Arts Center, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-noon. $20 per parent-child pair; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Kids craft: Leprechaun Handprint canvas: Wee lads and lassies use paint, glitter, google eyes and acrylic gems to create a St. Patty's Day sprite. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646.

community

Bouncy castle Event: Kids beat cabin fever by hopping on inflated structures. Ages 1-12. University Mall, South Burlington, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $5 for unlimited bouncing; $3 for five minutes of bouncing. Info, bouncearoundvt@myfairpoint. net.

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

Jay Peak sleigh Rides: See March 8. morrisville dabble day: Curious youngsters explore corn pools, Oobleck, crayons, play dough and more. Ages 8 and under. Older siblings welcome. Morristown Elementary School, Morrisville, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 888-0539.

dance

Art With a (Re)Purpose

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure: Chittenden County ninth through 12th graders bring that adage to life at Chittenden Solid Waste district’s cREATiVE REusE sHoWcAsE For three weeks, a curated selection of the kids’ original works of art — made with items bound for the landfill — will be on display at Frog hollow on Church Street. Winning entries in this year’s competition include a glowing mobile made from plastic bags and old wire, and a Scrabble board made from computer keys, a bicycle chain and plastic grating. at the end of the month, gallery-goers vote for the People’s Choice winner.

cREATiVE REusE sHoWcAsE: Ongoing from Friday, March 7, through Thursday, March 27. Closing Awards Bash on March 27, 6-7 p.m., at Frog Hollow in Burlington. All ages. Free. Info, 872-8100. cswd.net

Teen Tech Week Game day: Middle and high school students whoop it up with online competitions, snacks and prizes. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4.

marshfield open Gym: See March 7.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 4.

Library & Books

Essex drop-in story Time: Babies, toddler and preschoolers stop by for picture books and finger plays. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Pajama story Time: Jammie-clad young'uns hunker in for a few stories before bedtime. Ages 3-8. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 473-2597.

Hopstop Family series: city center Ballet: Graceful dancers present a dramatic interpretation of the classic fairytale, Cinderella, then hang around after the show to greet audience members. Ages 3 and up. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 603-646-2422.

Education

Living History Weekend: Fans of reenactments catch American soldiers on a pause in their 1775 march down Lake Champlain and talk military strategy. All ages. Fort Ticonderoga, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $10; free for children under 5. Info, 518-585-2821.

Fairs & Festivals

Family Fun day: Troy Wunderle’s One Man Circus and Christopher R and His Flying Purple Guitar entertain winter-weary youth during this activity-filled event. Ages 8 and under. Union Elementary School, Montpelier, 10 a.m.1 p.m. Free. Info, 262-3292.

irish Heritage Festival: Kids count their lucky charms and celebrate Celtic culture through traditional tales, crafts and a musical instrument "petting zoo." All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Rock Point school maple Run

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

& Brunch: Families kick off the spring season by running a 5K, then enjoying pancakes with syrup made on site. All ages. Proceeds benefit the Rock Point School sugaring program. Rock Point School, Burlington, 8 a.m.-noon. $5-10 for the Maple 5K; $5-10 for the Maple Brunch; $25 per family for each event. Info, 863-1104.

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 and lunch seating. All ages. Memorial Auditorium, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 310-5172. capital city Winter Farmers market: Root veggies, honey, maple syrup and more change hands at an off-season celebration of locally grown food held in the gymnasium. All ages. Vermont College of Fine Arts, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 223-2958. dakin Farm sugar-on-snow Party: Liquidgold-lovers chow down on a filling pancake breakfast, sample maple treats, rock out to live music and watch sap being boiled down. All ages. Dakin Farm, Ferrisburgh, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $4.50-7.75 for pancake breakfast. Info, 425-6726.

maple syrup magic: Busy kids and their families spend a morning in a Waldorf kindergarten, enjoying puppet play, circle time and pancake making while parents chat with teachers. Ages 3-6. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 10-11:30 a.m. Free; RSVP. Info, 9852827, ext. 12.

middlebury Winter Farmers market: See March 8.

Ongoing Exhibits

EcHo LaKE aQuaRium and sciEncE cEnTER

Info, 864-1848

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

FRoG HoLLoW GaLLERy

Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Info, 863-6458

creative Reuse Exhibit: Art objects made by high schoolers from discarded materials as part of a Chittenden Solid Waste District-sponsored competition are on public display.

monTsHiRE musEum oF sciEncE

Info, 649-2200

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

Rutland Winter Farmers market: See March 8. sugar-on-snow Party: See March 8.

Teens Take over the Kitchen: chicken Pot Pie: Young adults prep veggies, roast chicken and whip up sauce to create this classic dish, then take their hearty meal home for dinner. Ages 12 and up. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 1:30-3 p.m. $30; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Health & Fitness

dJ skate night: See March 8.

EvoKids saturday yoga: See March 8. Parents night out: Adults looking for some alone time drop off their young yogis for dancing, game playing, pizza eating and relaxation activities. Ages 4-11. Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga, Burlington, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $25 for one child; $30 for two children in the same family; preregister. Info, 864-9643.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 5, 2-3:45 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4, 9 & 10 a.m.

Library & Books

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

movies

smart series: muppet mania: In celebration of the release of Muppets Most Wanted, families make sock puppets and view the original flick from 1979. Ages 3 and up. Shelburne Museum, 1-4 p.m. Regular winter museum admission, $3-10; free for children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: sugaring: See March 11.

my sky: See March 8. night sky: See March 7.

optical illusions: Young minds discover that things are not always what they seem during this science-based session. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. Parachutes: Curious kids make their own 'chutes to test air resistance. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. Planetarium Presentation: See March 8.

Teddy Bear Tea Party: Kiddos bring their favorite stuffed animal to the Gardener's Supply conservatory, learn about carnivorous plants and take home a Venus fly trap. Ages 3 and up. Gardener's Supply, Williston, 10-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 658-2433.

Theater

'Willy Wonka': See March 13, 4 p.m. saturday drama club: See March 8.

16 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal yoga: See March 4, 10:05-11:30 a.m.

community

Jay Peak sleigh Rides: See March 8.

Education

Homework Help: See March 9. Living History Weekend: See March 15.

16 suNdAY (continueD)

Food

dakin Farm sugar-on-snow Party: See March 15. sugar-on-snow Party: See March 8.

Health & Fitness

Essex Big Kids open Gym: See March 9.

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

Essex open Gym: See March 4, 1-2:30 p.m. Lyndon center Public skating: See March 5, 12:30-2:30 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See March 4.

YoGirls Yoga class: See March 9.

Library & Books

Little Library Bunny's Lullaby Brunch: Babies born in 2013 and their families are treated to rhymes, stories, songs and snacks. South Burlington Community Library, 11 a.m. Free; RSVP by March 10. Info, 652-7080.

music

Vermont Philharmonic Family concert: The VPO and Green Mountain Youth Symphony join forces for a pleasing performance for all ages. Barre Opera House, 2 p.m. $5-15. Info, 476-8188.

Nature & science

Leafcutter Ants: Nature fans examine the secret lives of "insect fungus farmers" during this hands-on investigation. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

mirror, mirror: Little ones use looking glasses to investigate reflection and symmetry. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. Night sky: See March 7.

What’s Cooking?

ready, set, slice! teams of middle- and high-school students from across the state create nutritious, locally sourced dishes while vying for the title of jR. iRoN cHEF VERmoNT the budding foodies have two and a half hours to prep, cook and clean up before presenting their dishes to a panel of judges, who dole out awards based on taste, appearance, creativity and use of local ingredients. Spectators cheer on their favorite contestants while enjoying hands-on activities and tasty samples. as the host of tV’s “iron chef america” says, “À la cuisine!” See “mealtime” on page 15 to read about a few of this year’s contestants.

jR. iRoN cHEF VERmoNT: Saturday, March 22, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction. $3 per person; $5 per family. All ages. Info, 434-4122, ext. 40. jrironchefvt.org

Planetarium Presentation: See March 8.

Theater

'Fiddler on The Roof' Auditions: Theater hopefuls display their talents in the hopes of getting a part in this popular Broadway musical. Ages 7-18. Chandler Music Hall, Randolph, Free; preregister by March 9. Info, betsycantlin@comcast.net.

17 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See March 10. Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See March 10.

Food

Kids cooking class: Leprechaun soup & irish soda Bread: Newbie chefs whip up a potato potage spiked with spring greens, a traditional loaf and a surprise rainbow-themed dessert. Ages 6-12. McClure Multigenerational Center, Burlington, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9757.

Games

chess club: Strategic thinkers of all abilities make winning moves on a black-and-white board. Ages 6-14. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4.

itty Bitty Public skating: See March 6.

Little Yogis: See March 10.

Preschool Yoga: See March 10. shelburne open Gym: See March 4, 9 a.m., noon, 2 & 5 p.m.

stowe Public skating: See March 4.

Holidays

st. Patrick's day Parade: Revelers join a parade featuring floats and music, then head to city hall for Irish entertainment, face painting and refreshments. All ages. BFA Fairfax, 5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1500; ext. 266.

Library & Books

Elementary Reading Buddies: See March 10. Nature Tales story Time: See March 10. Read to Van Gogh the cat: Feline fanciers sign up for 10-minute sessions with this furry friend. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

movies

Young Adult Film crew: Wannabe actors, directors and audiovisual buffs put together a program for Lake Champlain Access Television. Ages 12-18. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

music

Kids music with Raphael: See March 10. music for Preschoolers: See March 6, 10:45 a.m.

shake Your sillies out: See March 10.

Theater

FlynnArts open classes Week: Arts-oriented kids of all ages get a chance to sample classes in drama, dance and music. Visit flynncenter. org for a class schedule. Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, Burlington, 9:30 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Free. Info, 652-4537.

18 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: See March 11.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See March 4.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4. shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See March 4.

Education

Homework Help: See March 9, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Food

A mosaic of Flavor: Bosnian stuffed Breads & Baklava: Spinach-stuffed pitas and honeydrenched phyllo dough with chopped nuts are on the menu in this collaboration between City Market and the Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program. All ages. Sustainability Academy at Lawrence Barnes, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9701.

Games

computer Art Games: Technology-savvy kids create their own digital designs. Meet in the school lobby. Grades K and up. Children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult. Williston Central School, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4. Family-Friendly Yoga: See March 4. open Gym with Kati Furs: See March 4. shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 4.

Library & Books

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See March 11. science story Time: it's Easy Being Green: Science educator Kristen Littlefield explains what gives plants and animals an emerald hue. Ages 3 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

music

children's sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See March 4.

Nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: colors: Science educators share a story and rainbow-themed experiment with little guests. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 2. Info, 864-1848.

Theater

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

FlynnArts open classes Week: See March 17. 9:30 a.m.-8:45 p.m.

19 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

After-school craft club: See March 12. open studio: See March 5.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See March 5.

shelburne Postnatal/Baby & me Yoga: See March 5.

community

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

Education

Teaching Teenagers What They Need to Know: Educational consultant and Waldorf educator Florian Osswaldven leads a discussion about how to inspire creative, analytic and human thinking in high schoolers in the digital age. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 7 p.m. Donations accepted; RSVP. Info, 985-2827, ext. 12.

Games

Wii Gaming: Gamers check out LEGO Star Wars and Wii Sports Resort, in addition to classics like Mario Kart. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Adventures to Fitness: See March 5. Essex open Gym: See March 4.

EvoKids Afterschool Yoga: See March 5.

Kids Yoga: See March 5.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 5.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 4.

Vergennes Kids Yoga: See March 5. Woodstock Toddler/Parent skating: See March 5.

Library & Books

Baby charms: Non-walking infants get silly as they sing, dance and make music with Miss Susan. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539. count me in!: Preschoolers and their parents learn hands-on activities to incorporate into their daily lives that will foster a love of mathematics. Optional pizza dinner from 5:15-5:45 p.m. followed by workshop. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 5:15-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

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

music

moving & Grooving With christine: See March 5. Preschool music With derek: See March 5.

rockin' ron the Friendly Pirate: See March 5.

Theater

FlynnArts open classes Week: See March 17, 3:45-4:45 p.m.

20 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: See March 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 5:457:15 p.m.

montpelier La Lache League: Breastfeeding moms make new friends as they discuss the joys and challenges of nursing. Snacks provided. Lending library available. Babies and toddlers welcome. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 9:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-1254.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 8:4510 a.m.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4. itty Bitty Public skating: See March 6. open Gym with Kati Furs: See March 4. shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

movies

middle school Books-to-Film discussion: Bookworms read Roald Dahl's whimsical tale James and the Giant Peach, then watch the movie version over snacks. Milton Public Library, 3:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

music

music for Preschoolers: See March 6. music With mr. chris: See March 6. spanish musical Kids: See March 6.

Parenting

simplicity Parenting series: See March 6.

Theater

'Tom sawyer': Mark Twain's classic novel gets the Verry Merry Theatre treatment. J.J. Flynn Elementary School, Burlington, 12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 355-1461.

FlynnArts open classes Week: See March 17, 3:45-5:15 p.m.

21

FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

crafternoons: See March 7.

Family Wheel drop-in: See March 7. Kinder Arts: See March 7.

Baby & maternity

New Parents Playgroup: See March 7, 9:3011:30 a.m.

community

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

Education

Early Bird math: See March 7.

Games

magic: The Gathering: See March 7.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4. marshfield open Gym: See March 7. shelburne open Gym: See March 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 4.

Library & Books

Jiggity Jog: A tuneful meet-up with Miss Susan entails singing, dancing and instrument playing. Ages 2-6. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539.

songs & stories With matthew: See March 7.

music

Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See March 7.

music With derek: See March 7.

music With robert: See March 7.

Nature & science

Friday Nights for Teen Tinkerers: Would-be Ben Franklins create, design or build something cool, from "Frankenstuffies" to stop-motion animation. Grades 6-9. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6:30-8 p.m. $14-16; preregistration encouraged. Info, 649-2200.

Homeschoolers day: Earth science: Geology, weather and forces of erosion are among the topics explored in this all-ages session. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Night sky: See March 7.

Theater

'Tom sawyer': See March 20, 7 p.m.

22 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

craft school saturday drop-in: See March 8. Kids craft: duct Tape Pail: Small constructors use colorful tape, paper, ribbon and google eyes to decorate a clear plastic bucket. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

showcase of circus: Professional and student aerialists, acrobats and jugglers present their acts. All ages. New England Center for Circus Arts, Brattleboro, 3:30 & 7 p.m. $8-12; free for children under 2. Info, 254-9780.

community

802's Got Talent: Talented local performers entertain the crowd with singing, dancing and more. A raffle, silent auction and concessions round out the night. All ages. Lyman C. Hunt Middle School, Burlington, 6 p.m. $6. Info, 310-7266.

Benefit Hockey Game: Sports fans cheer as Vermont police officers battle it out on the ice with National Guard members. Ages 3 and up. Essex Skating Facility, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. $5; proceeds benefit the Vermont Police Association. Info, 338-3452.

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.

dance

TriP dance company: This competitive Stowebased dance company, composed of performers ages 6-18, shows off a wide range of classical and original choreography. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 3 & 7:30 p.m. $20-25; proceeds benefit the dance company. Info, 760-4634.

Education

Practice AcT Exam: College-minded high schoolers take a current version of this standardized test, then receive scores back and talk strategy the following week. Ages 15-18. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

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. 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. All ages. (See calendar spotlight on page 36.) Various locations statewide. Free; visit vermontmaple.org to find a list of participating sugarhouses. Info, 763-7435. sugar-on-snow Parties: Seekers of sweet syrup tour the Audubon sugarbush, learn tapping techiques, observe sap boiling and taste the yummy result. All ages. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free; food and syrup for sale. Info, 434-3068.

Williston Kids day: Arts activities, bouncy castles, face painting and more take place during a day devoted to the young. All ages. Williston Central School, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 872-9000, ext. 18.

Food

Audubon sugar-on-snow Party: Maple fanciers celebrate the sugaring season with demos, tastings and tours. All ages. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3068.

chocolate Bar making: See March 8, 10-11 a.m. dakin Farm sugar-on-snow Party: See March 15.

Junior iron chef Vermont: Middle and high school students duke it out for cafeteria supremacy in a statewide culinary competition celebrating the state's farm-to-table roots. (See calendar spotlight on page 40.) All ages. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. $3 per person; $5 per family. Info, 434-4122, ext. 40.

middlebury Winter Farmers market: See March 8.

Norwich Winter Farmers market: See March 8.

rutland Winter Farmers market: See March 8.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 8.

Health & Fitness

EvoKids saturday Yoga: See March 8. Lyndon center Public skating: See March 5, 2-3:45 p.m.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4, 9 & 10 a.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 2:40-4:10 p.m.

Library & Books

Family star Wars Extravaganza: Costumed clans partake in intergalactic games, crafts and foods. All ages. Milton Public Library, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

march calendar

Nature & science

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

EcHo story Explorers: colors: See March 18.

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

my sky: See March 8.

Night sky: See March 7.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 8.

Theater

'Tom sawyer': See March 20, 4 p.m.

FlynnArts open classes Week: See March 17, 9 a.m.-4:15 p.m.

saturday drama club: See March 8.

23 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 10:05-11:30 a.m.

Education

Homework Help: See March 9.

Fairs & Festivals

maple open House Weekend: See March 22. sugar-on-snow Parties: See March 22.

Food

Audubon sugar-on-snow Party: See March 22.

dakin Farm sugar-on-snow Party: See March 15.

maple open House: Junior sugar makers watch sap being boiled, learn how trees are tapped, and sample syrups, spreads, candies and mustards. Ages 2 and up. Sugarbush Farm, Woodstock, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 457-1757.

my child & me cooking class: A Touch of maple: Preschoolers and their parents explore slightly sweet recipes including Vietnamese rice paper rolls and banana coconut pudding. Ages 5 and under. City Market, Burlington, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $5-10 per parent-child pair; free for WIC families; preregister. Info, 861-9700. sugar-on-snow Party: See March 8.

Health & Fitness

Essex Big Kids open Gym: See March 9.

Essex open Gym: See March 4, 1-2:30 p.m.

Lyndon center Public skating: See March 5, 12:30-2:30 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See March 4.

YoGirls Yoga class: See March 9.

Nature & science

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

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, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. Night sky: See March 7.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 8.

Theater

'Fiddler on The roof' Auditions: See March 16.

24 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See March 10. Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See March 10.

Food maple open House: See March 23.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4. itty Bitty Public skating: See March 6. Little Yogis: See March 10.

Preschool Yoga: See March 10.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4, 9 a.m., noon, 2 & 5 p.m.

Library & Books

Elementary reading Buddies: See March 10. Nature Tales story Time: See March 10.

music

Kids music with raphael: See March 10. music for Preschoolers: See March 6, 10:45 a.m. shake Your sillies out: See March 10.

25 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: See March 11.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See March 4. Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4. shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See March 4.

Education

Homework Help: See March 9, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4.

Family-Friendly Yoga: See March 4. open Gym with Kati Furs: See March 4. shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 4.

Library & Books

Book Launch Party: Local author and bookseller Elizabeth Bluemle's newest preschool read, Tap Tap Boom Boom, is applauded with music and merriment. All ages. ArtsRiot, Burlington, 4-7 p.m. Free; RSVP. Info, 985-3999.

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See March 11.

music

children's sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See March 4.

'The Next Generation' Auditions: High school instrumentalists and vocalists with classical training try out for an annual performance. Ages 18 and under. Chandler Music Hall, Randolph. Free; call to schedule an audition. Info, 728-9402.

Nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: spring: Junior science enthusiasts celebrate the changing season. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 2. Info, 864-1848.

Theater

'Are You my mother?': This musical — based on P.D. Eastman's classic picture book —follows Baby Bird's courageous search to find her mama. (See calendar spotlight on facing page.) Recommended for grades PreK-2. Chandler Music Hall, Randolph, 10 a.m. $6. Info, 728-6464.

26 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

open studio: See March 5.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See March 5. Nursing Beyond a Year: Moms gather to discuss the joys and challenges of an older nursling. Discussion topics include nighttime parenting, weaning and setting limits. Bring a snack to share. Aikido of Champlain Valley, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-3000.

shelburne Postnatal/Baby & me Yoga: See March 5.

Health & Fitness

Adventures to Fitness: See March 5. Essex open Gym: See March 4.

EvoKids Afterschool Yoga: See March 5. Kids Yoga: See March 5. shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

music

moving & Grooving With christine: See March 5.

Preschool music With derek: See March 5. rockin' ron the Friendly Pirate: See March 5.

27 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

creative reuse Awards Bash: An overall winner of the Chittenden Solid Waste Districtsponsored recycled art competition is crowned. Light refreshments provided. (See calendar spotlight on page 42.)Frog Hollow Gallery, Burlington, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 872-8100, ext. 211. Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: See March 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 5:457:15 p.m.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 8:4510 a.m.

community

soup Bowls for Hunger: Community members enjoy a warm meal and music, then bring home their hand-crafted bowl. All ages. Proceeds benefit local food shelves. Rutland High School, three seatings at 5, 6 & 7 p.m. $15; tickets available for purchase March 1. Info, 770-1113. student sleep out: Civic-minded students in elementary through high school spend the night on football fields, backyards and church lawns to raise awareness and funds for youth homelessness. (See Kids Beat on page 9.) Various Locations. Free; students can raise money to support Spectrum Youth & Family Services. Info, 864-7423, ext. 330.

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

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4. itty Bitty Public skating: See March 6. open Gym with Kati Furs: See March 4. shelburne open Gym: See March 4. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Library & Books

Fly Tying Workshops: Young adults look toward the fishing season as they learn how to make flies that will help them catch the big one. Ages 12 and up. Waterbury Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

music

music for Preschoolers: See March 6. music With mr. chris: See March 6.

28 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Family Wheel drop-in: See March 7. Kinder Arts: See March 7.

Baby & maternity

Postpartum Group: See March 14, 12:30-2 p.m.

community

student sleep out: See March 27.

Education

Early Bird math: See March 7.

Games

dungeons & dragons: See March 14.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See March 4. Family Yoga: Parents and kids bring calm to their minds while learning new poses, breathing techniques and games. Barlow Street Community Center, St. Albans, 6-6:45 p.m. $5 per child; free for adults; preregister. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

marshfield open Gym: See March 7.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See March 4.

Library & Books

Essex drop-in story Time: See March 14. Teen Advisory Board: Adolescents gather to plan library programs and munch on snacks. Grades 9-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

movies

Teen movie: 'catching Fire': Katniss and Peeta set out on a victory tour across Panem in part two of the Hunger Games trilogy. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:15-8:45 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

music

Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See March 7.

music With derek: See March 7.

Nature & science

Night sky: See March 7.

29 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

craft school saturday drop-in: See March 8.

Mama Drama

many a kid since 1960 has referred to an excavator as a “snort” thanks to the classic book, ARE You mY moTHER? author and illustrator P.D. eastman’s easy reader gets the dramatic treatment this month in a production by artsPower national touring theatre. When Baby Bird emerges from her shell, she expects to be greeted by her mama. instead, she finds an empty nest. embarking on a brave journey, the little hatchling befriends a colorful cast of characters including a cat, dog, hen and, finally, that scary snort. this tale of love, dedication and friendship teaches kids that sometimes you find more than you’re looking for.

‘ARE You mY moTHER?’: Tuesday, March 25, 10 a.m., at the Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph. $6. Recommended for grades pre-K to 2. Info, 728-6464. chandler-arts.org

Kids craft: Wooden Birdhouse: Young creators spruce up a habitat for flying friends to celebrate the coming of spring. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

community

Bouncy castle Event: See March 15.

student sleep out: See March 27.

Education

see Dr. first videos

“First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Practice AcT Exam: See March 22, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Food

Burlington Winter Farmers market: See March 15.

capital city Winter Farmers market: See March 15.

chocolate Bar making: See March 8. middlebury Winter Farmers market: See March 8.

Rutland Winter Farmers market: See March 8.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 8.

Games

chess club: Game players have fun with the library's sets. Ages 8 and under must bring an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

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

Health & Fitness

EvoKids saturday Yoga: See March 8.

shelburne open Gym: See March 4, 9 & 10 a.m.

south Burlington Public skating: See March 4, 2:40-4:10 p.m.

Library & Books

'The Glorkian Warrior delivers a Pizza' Launch Party: Celebrated local cartoonist James Kochalka talks about his newest graphic novel for kids and plays raucous tunes. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

Nature & science

Bird monitoring Walks: Experienced birders lead monthly jaunts in search of feathered friends, followed by warm drinks. Appropriate for older children and adults. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 8-9:45 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 434-2167. my sky: See March 8. Night sky: See March 7.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 8. Play date! spring on the Farm: Little ones pal up for theme-based activities and a live owl demo. Ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult. Families are welcome to bring a snack or lunch. Shelburne Farms, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $3-5 per child. Info, 985-8686.

saturday Nanodays: It's a small world, after all. Little physicists 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, $10.50-13.50; free for kids ages 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

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

Theater

mini mud Variety show: Tykes and teens show off their talents during this showcase of music, dance and more. Chandler Music Hall, Randolph, 7 p.m. $6-8 per student, $14-17 per adult. Info, 728-6464.

saturday drama club: See March 8.

30 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See March 4, 10:05-11:30 a.m.

community

student sleep out: See March 27.

Education

Homework Help: See March 9.

Fairs & Festivals

sugar-on-snow Parties: See March 22.

Food

Audubon sugar-on-snow Party: See March 22.

sugar-on-snow Party: See March 8.

Health & Fitness

Essex Big Kids open Gym: See March 9. Essex open Gym: See March 4, 1-2:30 p.m. south Burlington Public skating: See March 4.

YoGirls Yoga class: See March 9.

Nature & science

Night sky: See March 7.

Planetarium Presentation: See March 8. sound science: See March 9. straw Rockets: Imaginative inventors use air power to make space contraptions fly. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

MARCH CALENDAR

Theater

'The Teacher from the Black Lagoon & Other Storybooks': This fast-paced musical review, presented by Theatreworks USA, showcases a quirky cast of characters from children's books. Ages 5 and up. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, 3 p.m. $13-23. Info, 603-646-2422.

Playgroups

MONDAY

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

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

Burlington Early Learning Readiness Class: VNA Family Room, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-8147.

Cambridge Playgroup: Cambridge Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229. Colchester Playgroup: Malletts Bay School, Mondays, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5900.

Jericho Playgroup: Jericho Community Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Morrisville Hometown Playgroup: Morristown Elementary School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: Barlow Street Community Center, 3-5:30 p.m. $11-14 per session. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Swanton Playgroup: Swanton Elementary School, Mondays, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, swantonbbf@gmail.com.

Williston Playgroup: Alice in Noodleland: Buttered Noodles, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

31 MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See March 10.

Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See March 10.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See March 4.

Little Yogis: See March 10.

Preschool Yoga: See March 10.

Shelburne Open Gym: See March 4, 9 a.m., noon, 2 & 5 p.m.

Library & Books

Elementary Reading Buddies: See March 10.

Intergenerational Dessert Book

Discussion: Lit lovers gather for a good read-and-rant session, complete with something sweet. Grades 6 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Nature Tales Story Time: See March 10.

Music

Kids Music with Raphael: See March 10.

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

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

Winooski Early Learning Readiness Class: Y Early Childhood Program Winooski, 9:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-8147.

WEDNESDAY

Barre Open Gym: See Monday.

Enosburg Playgroup: American Legion, Enosburg, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797. Essex Building Bright Futures Baby Playgroup: Move You Fitness Studio, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

Essex Junction RU12? LGBTQA Family Playgroup: Leaps and Bounds Child Development Center, Essex Junction, March 12, 10 a.m.noon. Free; meets second Wednesday of every month. Info, 860-7812.

Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrop Memorial Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 827-3945.

Hinesburg Playgroup: Hinesburg Town Hall, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-4061.

Milton Playgroup: Milton Public Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-1457.

Richford Tumble Time: Richford Elementary, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free; alternates every other Wednesday with PJ Story Time. Info, 370-4797.

Milton Playgroup: See Wednesday. Montgomery Infant/Toddler Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 347-1780.

Montpelier Baby Play: St. Augustine Parish, 9:30-11 a.m. Free; Info, 262-3292.

Montpelier Dads & Kids Playgroup: Family Center of Washington County, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; no session on April 24. Info, 262-3292.

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

South Hero Playgroup: South Hero Congregational Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 796-3309.

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: See Tuesday.

Winooski Early Learning Readiness Class: See Tuesday.

Worcester Playgroup: Doty Memorial School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 223-1312.

FRIDAY

Winooski Fathers & Children Together: Winooski Family Center, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

TUESDAY

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

Burlington Dad's Night: VNA Family Room, 3-7 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

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

Colchester Playgroup: See Monday. Essex Junction MOPS: Essex Alliance Church, March 11, 8:45-11 a.m. & 6:30-8:45 p.m. $5 includes childcare and a meal; first meeting is free. Meets every other Tuesday starting December 3. Info, 310-6489.

Fletcher Playgroup: Fletcher Elementary School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 849-9368.

Georgia Playgroup: Georgia Elementary & Middle School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 528-5470.

Hardwick Playgroup: Hardwick Elementary School, 8:15-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 652-5138.

Johnson Baby Chat: Church of the Nazarene, fourth Tuesday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

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

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

Richford Playgroup: Cornerstone Bridges to Life Community Center, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797.

St. Albans Water Babies: Fitness Zone, 6-6:40 p.m. Free. Info, 999-9703.

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: See Monday. Fridays, 3-5:30 p.m.

Richmond Playgroup: Richmond Free Library, 8:45-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Shelburne Playgroup: Trinity Episcopal Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 734-1233.

South Burlington RU12? LGBTQA Family Playgroup: Leaps and Bounds Child Development Center, South Burlington, March 26, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Free; meets February 26. Info, 860-7812.

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

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: See Tuesday. St. Albans Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, St. Albans, 8:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Vergennes Playgroup: 2 Wolves Holistic Center, noon-2 p.m. $5 suggested donation. Info, 870-0361.

Williston Evening Babytime Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, March 5, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

THURSDAY

Alburgh Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, Alburgh, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Brandon Stories & Crafts: Brandon Free Public Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 247-8230.

Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: Evolution

Yoga, second Thursday of every month, 10:20 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 864-9642.

Burlington Family Play: See Tuesday. Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Playgroup: Essex Junction Recreation and Parks Department, 9:30-11 a.m. Free; bring indoor shoes. Info, 876-7555.

Johnson Hometown Playgroup: United Church of Johnson, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Bradford Story Hour: Bradford Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 222-4536.

Burlington Early Learning Readiness Class: See Monday.

Burlington Family Gym: Greater Burlington YMCA, Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $5 for families with one child; $8 for families with multiple children; free for YMCA members. Info, 862-9622.

Charlotte Playgroup: Charlotte Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 764-5820.

Essex Center Toy Library Playgroup: Memorial Hall, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

Fairfax Community Playgroup: BFA Fairfax, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, fairfaxsx6@gmail.com.

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

Georgia Tumble Time: Georgia Elementary & Middle School, March 7, 1:50-2:35 p.m. Free. Info, 528-5470.

Huntington Playgroup: Huntington Public Library, 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Isle La Motte Playgroup: Isle La Motte School, 8:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 796-3309.

Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 347-1780.

Randolph Toddler Time: Kimball Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073.

St. Albans Afternoon Fun: See Tuesday.

St. Albans MOPS: Church of the Rock, first Friday of every month, 8:45-11 a.m. First meeting is free; $4 dues per each meeting that follows. Info, 393-4411.

Stowe Playgroup: Stowe Community Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Music for Preschoolers: See March 6. 10:45 a.m.

Shake Your Sillies Out: See March 10.

Swanton Playgroup: See Monday. Fridays, 9:30-11 a.m.

Swanton Playgroup: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3033. Underhill Playgroup: Underhill Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415. Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

SATURDAY

Bakersfield Tumble Time: Bakersfield Elementary/Middle School, second Saturday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797.

Burlington Family Gym: See Friday.

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Preschool Open Gym: Maple Street Recreation Center, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1613.

Fairfax Open Tot Gym & Infant/Parent Playtime: BFA Fairfax, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, fairfaxsx6@gmail.com.

Montpelier Morning Playgroup: Family Center of Washington County, 9:30-11 a.m. Free; no session on April 26. Info, 262-3292.

Morrisville Weekend Baby Chat: Lamoille Family Center, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

Swanton Tumble Time: Swanton Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3033.

Model-Train Room

By Alison n ov A k

The memory of A Broken Toy TrAin from childhood spurred Paul Bortz to start collecting model trains. The exact model, a 1925 Lionel, was one of the first trains he purchased five years ago. “I went back to my childhood after I retired,” explains the 72-year-old former reverend. A father of five and grandfather of 14, he has since amassed more than 800 train cars.

• Bortz displays many of his trains — according to the year they were manufactured — on floorto-ceiling bookshelves. He customized the shelves by adding wooden pieces to accommodate the cars.

• Bortz’s collection includes trains manufactured as far back as 1906, as well as present-day models.

• Notable trains in his collection include Unique Art brand cars, which were only manufactured between 1949 and 1951; gang cars, which change directions when they bump into something; and a dark red 1995 Lionel that emanates smoke.

Bortz has so many, in fact, that he built a special room on the second floor of his home in Ripton to contain them. A large, carpet-covered table fills most of the space; on it are four train setups, as well as a variety of miniature houses, stores and people. Bortz turns the dial of a transformer, and the electric cars come to life, rounding the tracks slowly at first, then picking up speed. As they snake around the curves, they make chugga-chugga sounds, and a conductor barks announcements.

Bortz’s grandchildren, many of whom live nearby, love to play in the train room when they visit. The last time his 5-year-old granddaughter, Addie, was there, she spent an hour sitting atop the large table repositioning the figurines and buildings. “She arranges it in the way she wants it, completely different than the way I would want it,” he says, chuckling. K

PUZZLE PaGE

HArrison lives in williston and turns 7 on march 28. he is a sensitive, thoughtful boy with a huge heart who loves sports.

Puzzles4Kids

riddle search — “Tree” mendous fun

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 kind of tree can fit in your hand? aSh cEDar chESTNUT cOcONUT cOTTONwOOD DOGwOOD

By hELENa hOVaNEc

KATAleenA lives in cambridge and turns 7 on march 6. She has a bubbly personality and makes her family laugh all the time.

AnyA lives in Burlington and turns 12 on march 23. her favorite animals are wolves, cheetahs and snakes. She has seven pets, including a snake, and likes to swim, rollerblade and draw.

riddle answer:

March winners will receive a gift certificate to one of the following restaurants: Three Tomatoes Trattoria, Parker Pie or Mexicali Grill & Cantina.

AlexZAnder lives in Burlington and turns 4 on march 7. he loves to sing “happy Birthday!”

To

Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically

Lucy Terry Prince Pioneer Poet, 1724 - 1821

Lucy Terry Prince was born in West Africa. As a baby, she was stolen by slave traders and brought to America. A Connecticut family bought her and then sold her again, at age 5, to a Massachusetts innkeeper, Ebenezer Wells.

Growing up in the Wells home, Lucy attended church, learned to read and write, and developed a love of storytelling.

When Lucy was 26, she fell in love with a free black man named Abijah Prince. Wells set Lucy free so the couple could marry and move to Guilford, Vermont.

Young people gathered in Lucy’s kitchen to listen to the stories she made up. But in colonial times, poems were often recited, not written down. So most of Lucy’s poems were lost.

One poem, about a battle between white settlers and Native Americans, survived. Lucy’s 1746 “Bars Fight,” is the earliest recorded poem written by an African American.

Lucy holds another record: first African American woman to argue a case in the U.S. Supreme Court. When Colonel Eli Bronson claimed to own land belonging to Lucy and her husband, she pleaded the case. The judge said Lucy’s argument was better than anything he’d ever heard from any lawyer in Vermont. She won!

COLORING CONTEST!

Three winners will receive $25 gift cards to Creative Habitat and free framing of their artwork for its Kids Gallery, located at the store on 555 Shelburne Road in Burlington. After a monthlong display of the winning artwork, Creative Habitat will give each artist the framed print to display at home.

Send Kids VT your work of art by March 15. Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 5 and younger, (2) ages 6-8 and (3) ages 9-12. Winners will be named in the April issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to KidsVT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

How to interview your grandparents

of all The Things we can leaVe our children and grandchildren, none compares with family stories that get passed from generation to generation. Thankfully, we live in an age when capturing those memories has never been easier. Using a smartphone, video camera or digital recorder, kids and their parents can sit down with older relatives and record them as they talk about their lives. If you’ve never interviewed someone, fear not. Below are some basic questions to get the conversation going. Try conducting the interview when other family members are present, such as at a wedding, reunion or birthday party; the best-told stories are often a group effort. And don’t gloss over seemingly trivial details. The more specificity, the better. Future generations will thank you.

— Ken Picard

Burlington PuBlic SchoolS Kindergarten registration

All Burlington Elementary Schools the registration deadline for Kindergarten for Fall 2014 is March 21, 2014

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, 2014 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.

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

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

1. What is your earliest memory?

2. Where was your first home? What was it like inside?

3. What was the first school you attended? Tell me about a memorable teacher or classmate.

4. did you have pets as a child? What were their names?

5. What did your parents do for a living? did you ever go with them to work?

6. What was the most trouble you ever got into as a child? What was your punishment?

7. What was your favorite meal as a child?

8. What was your first job? how did you get to work? how much did you get paid?

9. did you go on family vacations? Where was the best place you ever visited? how did you get there?

10. What was the first car you owned or drove? how much did it cost?

11. do you remember where you were when JFK was shot? When the Berlin Wall came down? When the september 11 attacks happened?

12. how did you and Grandma/ Grandpa meet? Tell me about your first date.

13. Where did you first live together?

14. Tell me about your grandparents: Where were they born? What did they do for a living?

clip and bring to Grandma’s and Grandpa’s on your next visit!

Share your fun craft ideas and completed projects with us! send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.

Looking for Ready, Set, Run LEADERS!

Leaders volunteer a few hours per week to help children learn about: Fitness

Good Nutrition Citizenship

Goal Setting

Why become a leader?

Leaders are great role models. You will be provided curriculum and training materials, have tons of fun, and make a positive impact in your community.

✱ CONTEST Book Review

Sponsored by

Calling all bookworms!

Send us a thoughtful paragraph about a recent read for the chance to win some literary loot.

Book:

Author:

Describe your favorite part of the story. What did you like about it?

Feel free to use additional pages!

Shelburne • Ages 8-9

June 23-July 25

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 March 15.

Send your entries to: Kids VT, attn: Book Review, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

New

Name Age Town Email Phone

Polish Poker Face

BY

I GREW UP IN EAST DETROIT, just a few miles away from my paternal grandparents, but they’ve always been a bit of a mystery to me. My grandfather died in 1983, when I was 8. I remember he used to read to me, and I know he loved to garden, but he was dead for 20 years before I learned his real first name.

I discovered it by accident. I happened to glance at his tombstone while walking through the cemetery after my grandmother’s funeral. According to the marker, his name was I. Sylvester Resmer.

Puzzled, I asked my dad what the “I” stood for. Wasn’t his first name Sylvester?

“Everybody called him that, but his first name was actually Ildephonse,” my dad revealed. “He hated it. He never wanted anyone to know.”

There were lots of things no one seemed to know about him — like when he arrived in the United States. My grandfather was born in Poland, but neither my father nor his three siblings know exactly where, when and how he came to the U.S., nor what his early life here was like.

I knew my diminutive and a ectionate grandmother better. She occasionally babysat my sister and me when we were sick, and I saw her regularly at family gatherings well into my adulthood. Anne Gorski Resmer was born in Detroit to Polish parents. Like everyone else we knew, she was Roman Catholic.

But there’s still so much I don’t know. What did she do before she met my grandfather? Where did she go to school? What was it like living in the Motor City during the boom years and the race riots?

She never mentioned any of that and didn’t elaborate when I asked. In my family, I learned, we just didn’t talk about stu like that. We kept our focus on the present — on family, church, the weather, our health.

When my grandmother and I talked about my life, I’m not sure she understood what I was saying.

For example, I was on the forensics team in high school. It’s the “sport” of competitive public speaking. I knew my grandmother was proud of me: A suburban weekly once ran a story about our team, and she cut it out and displayed it on her fridge.

But in my senior year, she confessed that she was confused. Every spring, I went to a forensics tournament at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island in Lake Huron. “Where do they keep the bodies?” she asked earnestly.

For four years, she thought I had been dissecting corpses. Our one shared interest was playing games. Grandmom loved Rummikub and knew lots of card games. My favorite was a simple, fast-moving one she called “Shveen.” The name, she said, meant “screw your neighbor” in Polish, but I’ve never been able to confirm that.

The dealer distributes a single card to each player. The player on the dealer’s right gets to keep his or her card or trade it with the next player. The object is not to get stuck with the lowest card in the hand.

Keep the card you’re dealt and you run the risk of losing; trade it and you may wind up holding one that’s even lower. It all comes down to whether you think the person sitting next to you has a better card.

With my grandmother, it was always hard to tell. I’d have a five, and she’d be sitting next to me smiling innocently. She’d make me believe I couldn’t lose by trading with her. Then she’d pass me a two.

In our family’s version of the game, players start with three dimes each and throw one into a pot every time they lose. The last person with money left keeps all the cash. Whenever Grandmom won, she’d chuckle mischievously while scooping up her loot.

One of my favorite Shveen games took place in November 1998, while my partner, Ann-Elise, and I were visiting my parents. Ann-Elise joined me, my sister, my grandmother and some cousins in a game at the dining room table. She’d never played before, but she won twice, taking all of Grandmom’s spare change.

My grandparents weren’t the only ones holding back. I introduced Ann-Elise to my grandmother as my friend. The rest of my family knew that we were dating, but I didn’t want to tell Grandmom.

I felt dishonest but sensed that she wouldn’t approve. I didn’t want to disrupt my relationship with my grandmother. By the time Ann-Elise and I got civil unioned in 2000, Grandmom was in an assisted-living facility. I didn’t invite her. I don’t think she knew about the ceremony. My life must have been a bit of a mystery to her, too.

But we had other ways of communicating. One of the last times I visited her, I brought my accordion to her room and played a few songs for her and my parents.

I don’t remember what we said to each other then, but I remember that her eyes lit up and she smiled as I played.

There were some things our family just didn’t reveal

CATHY RESMER

When my grandmother and I talked about my life, I’m not sure she understood what I was saying.

• Tennis Instruction

• Climbing Wall

CAMP

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,

MIGHTY

• Group Sports (including but not limited to: baseball, soccer, floor hockey, basketball, kickball)