Kids VT, May 2016

✱ "GENTLE" C-SECTIONS

✱ FIRST BIRTHDAY CAKE

✱ BELLY ART

✱ RAPPING WITH RAFFI

At First Sight

And the wi er is…

The Parenting Media Association announced the winners of its annual Design & Editorial Awards Competition at its convention last month in Indianapolis, Ind. Among national publications with a circulation of 25,000 and less, Kids VT won:

Gold, General Excellence Gold, Overall Writing

Gold, News Feature for “Books Behind Bars” by Kathryn Flagg (March 2015)

Silver, Family Fun for the “Mealtime” column by Erinn Simon

Silver, Personal Essay for “Into the Woods: A mother and teenage daughter bond on the Long Trail” by Jennifer Lane (November 2015)

Silver, General Feature Writing for “Got Milk?: Burlingtonbased Mamava aims to make breastfeeding and pumping easier” by Megan James (May 2015)

Silver, Front Cover Illustration

“Need a Night Out?” by Pat Lewis (February 2015)

The PMA judges said:

"When the managing editor leads off with a shame-faced account of her first failure as a new mother, you know this is a magazine that lives where its readers do. That sense of warmth and personality pervades each issue. This was a strong category, but those characteristics lifted the gold medal winner above other good writing."

ON

Terra Heilenbach, who is interviewed in

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

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

Copublisher Colby Roberts colby@kidsvt.com ext. 77

Managing Editor Alison Novak alison@kidsvt.com ext. 75

Contributing Editor Meredith Coeyman meredith@kidsvt.com ext. 75

Art Director Brooke Bousquet brooke@kidsvt.com ext. 41

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

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

Calendar Writer Brett Stanciu brett@kidsvt.com ext. 78

Proofreaders Katherine Isaacs

Carolyn Fox

Production Manager John James

Creative Director Don Eggert

Designers Rev. Diane Sullivan Charlotte Scott

Circulation Manager Matt Weiner

Business Manager Cheryl Brownell

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

• Published 11x per year.

Circulation: 25,000 at 600+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.

• © 2016 Da Capo Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.

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

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

Contributing Writers: Darcie Abbene, Dan Bolles, Janet Essman Franz, Grace Per Lee, Mary Ann Lickteig, Ken Picard, Heidi Remick, Erinn Simon, Jessica Lara Ticktin, Katie Titterton

Illustrator: Tyler Parker

Photographers: Caleb Kenna, Tom McNeill, Sam Simon

“I

“I used to always keep my mouth closed when I smiled. Not anymore!”

“I used to always keep my mouth closed when I smiled. Not anymore!”

— Jessica, 24

— Jessica, 24

“I used to always keep my mouth closed when I smiled. Not anymore!”

— Jessica, 24

“Treat yourself this Mother’s Day get the smile you deserve!”

“Treat

“Treat yourself this Mother’s Day get the smile you deserve!”

Whether you’re considering clear aligners, retainers or today’s braces, an orthodontist is the smart choice. Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have two to three years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile – that feels great, too.

Whether you’re considering clear aligners, retainers or today’s braces, an orthodontist is the smart choice. Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have two to three years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile – that feels great, too.

Whether you’re considering clear aligners, retainers or today’s braces, an orthodontist is the smart choice. Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have two to three yea of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile – that feels great, too.

mylifemysmile.org

Whether you’re considering clear aligners, retainers or today’s braces, an orthodontist is the smart choice. Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have two to three of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile – that feels great, too.

mylifemysmile.org

mylifemysmile.org

ORTHODONTICS

ORTHODONTICS

ORTHODONTICS

DRS. PETERSON, RYAN & EATON

DRS. PETERSON, RYAN & EATON Williston St. Albans 878-5323 527-7100

DRS. PETERSON, RYAN & EATON

Williston St. Albans 878-5323 527-7100

Williston St. Albans 878-5323 527-7100

www.champlainortho.net

www.champlainortho.net

www.champlainortho.net

A Pregnant Pause

MY TWO PREGNANCIES weren’t complicated, but I didn’t breeze through either one of them. When I was pregnant with almost-9-year-old Mira, a concerning genetic screening led to an amniocentesis, where a medical technician uses a needle to sample amniotic fluid. That procedure turned traumatic when the guy in charge had a difficult time inserting the impossibly long needle into my belly, which led to lots of uncomfortable poking and prodding.

While carrying my son, Theo, three years later, I was disgusted by all food and struggled to put on weight for the first time in my life. In my second trimester, I contracted the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu, and made several solo trips to Fanny Allen so I could be hydrated through an IV drip while my husband stayed home with toddler Mira. I worried that I would give birth to a frail and sickly baby. (Thankfully, Theo was born perfectly hearty at more than seven pounds.)

I temporarily forgot about all of that hardship when I finally met the little people who had caused me such angst. But I think about those experiences, and being pregnant in general, often. Though the gestational period lasts just nine months, the intense gamut of feelings a pregnant woman experiences — from bliss to misery, excitement to fear — imbues it with added significance.

I enjoyed reflecting on that era for this month’s Baby & Maternity Issue. In reporting “The Art Of” (page 18), I talked with three local artists who help moms celebrate and commemorate their beautiful, pregnant bellies.

Pregnancy’s culminating event — the birth itself — is something that most of us relive over and over again with friends, family and likely the kids themselves. Contributing editor Meredith Coeyman revisited the births of her children in these pages, too — twice. Her piece in the 2014 Baby & Maternity Issue, “Rebirth Plan: A ‘natural’ mom comes to terms with her C-section,” was recognized with a Gold award in the personal essay category from the Parenting Media Association. This year, for our Baby & Maternity issue, Coeyman describes a patient-driven movement to change the way some C-sections are conducted. In “C-Change: Women are pushing for ‘gentle’ cesarean sections” (page 20), she explains how small modifications to the standard C-section model are making the operation feel more like a birth.

This year’s Baby & Maternity Issue also takes readers back to the moment of conception. We check in with a fertility specialist in “Checkup” (page 19), who offers advice to parents having trouble getting pregnant with baby No. 2. And we hear from a lesbian mom trying for a second child who was surprised to discover that her first son, conceived using sperm from an anonymous donor, had half siblings — a lot of them — scattered all across the country (“Meet the Diblings,” page 55.)

Finally, this month we’re sad to say ciao (or chow?) to Erinn Simon, who has served up appetizing anecdotes to Kids VT readers for the past two years. We wish her a future as sweet and enriching as the recipes she’s shared with us.

ALISON NOVAK, MANAGING EDITOR

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

HEIDI REMICK (“Use Your Words”) is a domestic and sexual violence prosecutor and a newly elected school board member in Windsor County. She reads and writes romance to restore her faith in love, relationships and humanity in general.

MEREDITH COEYMAN (“C-Change”) lives in Burlington with her husband, Dave, and two kids, Leo and Mila. When she’s not writing or editing for Kids VT and Seven Days, she’s thinking about baklava. Or going to the beach. Or convincing herself that she totally, definitely doesn’t want another baby.

Dancing on the eve of Theo’s birth

Winners’ Circle OH BABY!

Kids VT took home seven awards at the Parenting Media Association conference in Indianapolis last month. We competed against other parenting publications from around the country in our circulation category (25,000 and fewer). Our accolades included:

SILVER, Family Fun for the “Mealtime” column by Erinn Simon

SILVER, Personal Essay for “Into the Woods: A mother and teenage daughter bond on the Long Trail” by Jennifer Lane (November 2015)

SILVER, General Feature Writing for “Got Milk?: Burlington-based Mamava aims to make breastfeeding and pumping easier” by Megan James (May 2015)

SILVER, Front Cover Illustration “Need a Night Out?” by Pat Lewis (February 2015)

GOLD, News Feature for “Books Behind Bars: Helping moms read to their kids — from prison” by Kathryn Flagg (March 2015)

And two biggies: GOLD for Overall Writing — for the fifth year in a row! — and, for the first time, GOLD for General Excellence. Yep, according to the PMA, we’re the best parenting publication of our size in the country. We’re proud and grateful to be recognized nationally for our work.

Readers Respond

In our April “Use Your Words” column, Kirsten Isgro wrote about the experience of parenting her daughter Sylvie, who has Krabbe disease, a fatal condition. The piece got more than 1,100 likes on Facebook, and one mom shared these thoughts:

Your words are so spoton! Our daughter just turned 10, and they didn’t think she would make it past 3. She has Zellweger syndrome and was just diagnosed with Moyamoya disease after her stroke in August. We also have an 8-year-old and try our very hardest at giving her a “normal” life. We just bought a pop-up and we will be taking them camping, because we all want to enjoy life and make awesome memories! I don’t know how much time we will have with her, but it will never stop me from loving every minute!

Thank you for this article and sharing your story!

JENNIFER CHARBONNEAU ESSEX

We received lots of feedback from our April cover story (“Tough Choices: Vermont parents are opting out of work to retain their benefits”), including this response from a grandmother. For more reactions to the piece, turn to page 27 (“More Tough Choice$”).

Excellent, well-written article, and so true. I see my daughter going through this situation. It is financially better for her to keep her income down so she can receive health care and aid toward daycare/preschool.

It is a disadvantage, especially for women who have to decide between giving up a career or putting it on hold versus health care and childcare. Putting a career on hold could have a negative impact on a woman’s future career opportunities. This is so wrong and this is the reason why we need to go to a federal universal single-payer health care system in our country. This is also the reason why we need a universal pre-K federal program, so that all children get the same quality care and education equally. Teachers will be certified just like our public school teachers. This should be a federal law, not done state by state.

CHRISTINE MOON ESSEX JUNCTION

We asked Kids VT staff members and contributors to share their pregnancy and newborn photos of years gone by. Here’s a sampling of the sweet snapshots.

Darcie Abbene with Hadley

Brett Stanciu with Molly

Mary Ann Lickteig with twins Andrew and Nicholas

Janet Essman Franz with Adam and Zac in her belly

Brooke Bousquet with Henry

B Y

Writing Contest Winners

Spring fever must be going around! We received dozens of submissions to this month’s poetry contest, which asked readers to pen an acrostic poem about spring using the word “APRIL.” The two winners each receive a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop in Burlington. Below are the winning poems.

Nico A. Jastatt, 9

BURLINGTON

Amazing season that brings joy, for every girl and boy.

Pretty flowers growing tall, their beauty lasts until the fall.

Rain and clouds, that brings sun, and playful puddles for everyone.

In this month of spring, not summer or fall, there is love and compassion for all.

Love is strong and so is grace, this is very special in Vermont, our home place.

Turner Elliott, 11

SHELBURNE

April is the month of new beginnings, with buds popping up and birds singing.

Proud oaks standing, mottled with age, wish they had buds (they seem all the rage).

Restful bears, after a long winter’s nap, wake up and see buds starting to unwrap.

“Ice is gone!” the birds happily say. “Let’s rise and greet this beautiful day!”

Left behind is Jack Frost the scoundrel, and now there’s a beautiful Vermont April.

Find the May writing prompt on page 51. The deadline is May 15. Happy writing!

COLORING CONTEST

Coloring-contest entries flooded our mailbox with sparkly showers, rainbows and tulips in April.

Madison Reed, 4, added a bright sun to the sky and jazzed up her cat’s boots with smiley faces. Pink flowers bloomed and fat raindrops fell in 12-year-old Jasmin Townsend’s drawing.

Olivia Harris, 8, took the phrase “raining cats and dogs” quite literally, filling the sky with canines and felines. Our judges appreciated the amazing, outsidethe-box thinking this month. Keep the creative work coming!

HONORABLE MENTIONS

RAZZLE DAZZLE RAINBOW

Mia White, 9, Williston WAY TOO WET

Eliza Lynch, 7, Essex Junction SUPERKITTY!

Kelsey Glanz, 4, Jericho FLYING FISH

Zoey Copp, 10, Orleans

THE WEATHER CAT

Isabel Rose, 5, Johnson CRYING KITTY

Angelina Limtone, 7, Hopewell Junction, N.Y.

FLOATING FISH FRIENDS

Liliveve Cueto, 2, St. Albans

SUPERBLY STRIPED

Samantha, 9, Bristol

MEOWING IN THE RAIN

Abigail Cribby, 8, Georgia

SPARKLING SHOWER

Jasmine Tornabe, 5, Burlington

SHOWERS AND FLOWERS

Lucia Hackerman, 7, Charlotte

A PURRFECT DAY

Cadence Tenney, 9, Williamstown

TOP TITLES

“CATTY-LAC”

Paris Schoolcraft, 4, Duxbury

“I AM AWESOME”

Jackson Graves, 6, South Hero “PUSS IN THE ENCHANTED GARDEN”

Cynthia Smith, 11, Berlin

The winners of annual family memberships to the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium are…

Ambrose Vickery, 8 COLCHESTER “Puss in Rain Boots”

Tenley Peloquin, 5 WILLIAMSTOWN “The Little Rain”

Lillianna Avila, 10 BARRE “Where Ye Treasure”

Cathy Resmer with Graham

Jessica Ticktin with Mabel in her belly

Ken Picard with Manya and Ezra

Meredith Coeyman with Leo

THE BEAT

BY ALISON NOVAK

BUSINESS Shop Small

Newborns might be tiny, but they require a lot of stu . From bouncy seats to strollers to baby carriers to high chairs, it can add up fast. TWINKLINGS, a secondhand store stocked with maternity and baby items, aims to defray some of those costs. The one-room shop, which opened in early March, sells maternity clothing, nursing items, and baby clothing and gear at thrift-store prices. The idea came to Birth Journeys childbirth educator and doula Jenna Thayer when she was pregnant with her fourth child. Thayer held a well-attended baby and maternity “swap and shop” in the Birth Journeys space and felt she’d identified a real need in the community. Twinklings opened its doors weeks before Thayer had her daughter Penelope, who’s currently serving as her very sweet sidekick.

TWINKLINGS is located next to the Burlington Bike Path at 1 Steele Street, Suite 122, and is open Tuesday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Profits go to the doula scholarship fund Handle With Love VT. Visit vttwinklings.com for more information. Bring donations to the shop, or arrange a pickup time with Thayer by calling 324-8809.

PODCAST

Listen and Learn

Parents know all too well that kids have endless questions. BUT WHY, a new podcast from Vermont Public Radio’s “Vermont Edition” host Jane Lindholm and producer Melody Bodette, hopes to provide some illuminating answers. The first 22-minute episode, released last month, tackles a question from 4-year-old Finn of Hinesburg about bears’ hibernation. Lindholm’s conversation with Vermont naturalist Mary Holland is sure to capture kids’ attention. Topics include how bears go so long without eating, pooping and peeing, and what they might dream about. With the help of an astrophysicist and two science-fiction writers, the second installment explores what the end

of the world will be like. Lindholm, who is pregnant and has a 2-year-old son, says the idea of a kid-focused podcast came to her after reading a friend’s social-media post about being unable to listen to public radio around her kids due to its adult content. With backing from VPR, Lindholm decided to create something like National Public Radio but for kids, aimed at being “really respectful with how inquisitive and thoughtful kids are.”

Does your kid have a question for BUT WHY? Record it using the memo app on your smartphone and send it to questions@butwhykids.org. Listen to the podcast at butwhykids.org or find it on iTunes.

TOYS

Make, Believe

Carey Bunker, a Brandon graphic designer and mom of three, began selling art prints for kids’ rooms nearly two years ago. Her drawings featured two main characters: bookish big sister Addie and her energetic little brother, George. She soon expanded her o erings to include items that would activate kids’ imaginations and encourage

them to commune with nature. “I feel like kids need a world they can escape to,” Bunker explains. Her company, ADDIE & GEORGE, boasts a wide range of products for ages 4 to 10, including shadow puppets, story starter kits, paper masks and crowns, and adventurers’ kits. Bunker rolled out her latest product, Addie & George Coloring Adventures, at the end of April. The coloring and activity book features original brown-and-white drawings and a short story kids can finish themselves, plus a treasure map and a package of seeds to ensure plenty of outdoor adventures.

To purchase ADDIE & GEORGE products, visit addieandgeorge.com.

An adventurers’ kit

COURTESY OF JENNA THAYER COURTESY OF CAREY BUNKER

CAMPAIGN

Getting Better

MAKE-A-WISH VERMONT wants to make their mission clear, and they’ve enlisted the “Most Interesting Man in the World” to help. Manchester resident Jonathan Goldsmith — best known as the debonair, silverhaired gentleman of Dos Equis beer commercials and internet meme fame — costars with Make-a-Wish teen Jamie Heath in a PSA that began airing last month. It’s part of what Make-A-Wish Vermont president and CEO James Hathaway calls the What You May Not Know campaign, highlighting that the organization serves kids with a wide range of life-threatening illnesses, not just

those with terminal conditions. Dummerston’s Tom Bodett of “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me!” lends his familiar voice to a campaign radio spot, as well. Make-a-Wish trips such as Disney adventures and White House tête-à-têtes with President Obama create experiences that “help in the healing process,” Hathaway says, and give sick kids “something to look forward to.”

Know a kid who might be eligible for a MAKE-A-WISH VERMONT request? Refer them at vermont.wish.org/ refer-a-child.

COURTESY OF MAKE-A-WISH VERMONT

Jonathan Goldsmith with

Wish Kid Jamie Heath

High Flyer

A pint-size ornithologist earns his bird-watching cred

ISAAC WOOD-LEWIS LOVES BIRDS. So much so that he once covered himself with leaves and birdseed and lay in the woods for 45 minutes waiting for one to land and eat.

Lauren Akin, director of Crow’s Path Field School, thought of the experiment. And when she needed a volunteer, she knew that Isaac, who spends one day a week at the school, would want to participate.

Especially attuned to the natural world, Isaac spent lots of time last summer on his neighbor’s porch watching monarch caterpillars metamorphose into butterflies.

But it’s birds that really command his interest.

“I think it’s cool that they’re, like, one of the only animals that can fly and the only animals that have feathers,” he says. “And also just how there’s so many different types and, like, shapes and sizes and colors.”

In spring, the Burlington 9-year-old gets up at 4 a.m. a handful of times to help band songbirds, a tracking method where a numbered band is placed on the bird’s leg. On icy October nights, he stays up long past his bedtime banding saw-whet owls. And in January, he was the youngest member of Vermont’s team at the Superbowl of Birding, a 12-hour bird-watching competition in Massachusetts.

Isaac’s avian passion began about four years ago when, out shopping with his mom, a bird feeder caught his attention and he asked her to buy it. One feeder became four, and his short bird walks gradually got longer. Soon Isaac was using PowerPoint to create birding presentations for school kids and senior citizens. He saved his allowance to buy The Sibley Guide to Birds and had it autographed.

Isaac’s mom, Valerie, recalls his first bird walk with adults in Colchester, when he was about 5 years old. “I’m his equipment carrier,” she says. “And we come stumbling up. Everyone looks, and they’re worried he’s going to be a distraction — He won’t have the attention span, he’s going to scare the birds away,” Valerie says. “And then he’s the first one to spot [a bird].”

He even used birders’ lingo to describe its location: “‘Third branch up, three o’clock, on the dead part, move in a foot,’” Valerie says. “So he quickly earned his street cred with this group of gray-haired birders.”

Birders have something called a “life list” where they log their sightings; Isaac’s is already 270 entries long. Among his favorites are the plain chachalaca he saw on a family trip to Mexico and the spotted sandpiper he saw in Burlington.

He’s excited to add to his tally.

“I have a lot of big-goal birds,” he says, like the blacknecked stilt and the gray jay. “Everyone who has seen one has hand-fed it,” he says of the latter. And then there are birds-of-paradise, “probably the most amazing birds in the

world,” Isaac says. He watches their flamenco-like mating dances on YouTube.

Birding may seem passive, but it requires hiking to find birds and knowing about their habitats, diets, behaviors, colors and songs in order to identify them, says Larry Clarfeld, a teacher and naturalist at North Branch Nature Center, where Isaac helps band birds.

“I’ve never seen someone as young as Isaac who is so good at finding birds,” says North Branch executive director Chip Darmstadt. Focus, curiosity, stamina and passion are all traits that serve the pint-size, yellow-tufted ornithologist well.

No birds came to feed the day Isaac lay in the woods at Crow’s Path, though a cardinal came close, Akin says. She marvels at Isaac’s willingness to be still, quiet and open: “He shares with the birds a gentle spirit and a curious nature.” K

“One to Watch” shines a light on a young Vermonter who is going places. Know a local child or teen who’s recently done something amazing? Nominate him or her at kidsvt.com/vermont/kidsvtonetowatch/page.

NAME: ISAAC WOOD-LEWIS TOWN: BURLINGTON

9

Isaac Wood-Lewis out bird-watching

AcroYoga

FINDING AN ACTIVITY that parents and preteens can enjoy together might feel like a stretch. But sometimes, that’s exactly what’s required.

Recently, my 12-year-old son, Adam, and I worked together in a remarkable way: We learned to fly. No, we didn’t grow wings. But he did lift off the ground, performing daring aerial maneuvers as I supported his body.

It all happened in AcroYoga class. I came upon the practice — which combines acrobatics with yoga and Thai massage — as I was searching for exercises to help Adam relieve his growing pains and stiff muscles. I was intrigued, and we already had some related experience: We’d done traditional family yoga together before. While it helped, the classes were geared toward young children. We were ready for a more formidable challenge.

Developed in the 1980s, AcroYoga was originally called contact yoga. It requires at least two people but works best with three or more. One person lies on the ground as a base, while another (the “flyer”) balances on their partner’s hands and feet. A third person spots the flyer and keeps everyone safe.

I scored a one-hour private AcroYoga session with Lori Flower for $40 — discounted from $75 — through the Localvore Today website. We met Flower at her studio, which is the matlined living room in her tidy Waterbury home. After briefly warming up with leg and back stretches, Flower enlisted me to demonstrate poses while Adam watched.

We started with the folded leaf pose. Flower reclined on the mat with her legs in the air while I stood facing her with my feet close to her bottom. I leaned forward, and she caught my thighs with her feet, our hands pressing together. The small-statured instructor hoisted me into the air with ease and told me to extend my arms and legs.

This was all well and good, but I wondered aloud how I would lift Adam’s 95-pound frame. That’s when Flower divulged the secret: bone

stacking. When a support person aligns their ankles over knees and hips while using their feet to balance someone, the pressure shifts from their joints and muscles to their bones, which can bear more weight. And when the flyer pushes their hands against the supporter’s hands and both people straighten their elbows, it creates a strong, stable line of support without straining the shoulders

Soon it was our turn. I felt an awesome stretch in my hamstrings as Adam extended his body over mine. When we felt stable, we moved into the bird pose. With Flower spotting, Adam let go of my hands and brought his arms behind him like soaring wings. I flexed and pointed my toes to rock him back and forth.

FLYING LESSONS:

YIN-YANG STRETCH: This stretch is great for the back and hip flexors. Sit backto-back with legs crossed. Extend your right arms to the side and left arms into the air. Then shift your bodies to the right so your heads are side by side. Lean back until your heads rest on each other’s inner thighs. Extend both arms to the side and relax into the stretch.

We learned several more poses including one called the highflying whale, where Adam did an aerial backbend that allowed him to flex his spine while I massaged his back with my feet.

At first it seemed like the base person was doing all the work. But we soon discovered that it was even more strenuous for the flyer. “It’s sort of like how it is when you’re walking,” Adam suggested. “When you walk, it’s harder for you than it is for the floor. The floor just holds you up.” Adam felt the exertion in his abs and glutes.

After the session, we agreed that doing poses together helped us tune in to each other. “I feel stretched out and really relaxed,” Adam said. And, best of all: “I liked it because I was with you.” K

Drop into Flower’s AcroYoga class on Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m.12:50 p.m. at Topnotch Resort in Stowe. Book a private session or schedule an AcroYoga birthday party through Flower’s website, karmiconnection.com. To find other AcroYoga classes and instructors, visit acroyogavermont.com/classes or Acro Yoga Vermont’s Facebook page.

Providing a mixed-aged, developmental program for children 18 months - 12 years of age.

Providing a mixed-aged, developmental program for children 3 - 9 years of age.

A child-centered alternative education. …dedicated to the philosophy and teachings of Maria Montessori ENROLLING NOW!

A child-centered alternative education. Montpelier Montessori School

.. dedicated to the philosophy and teachings of Maria Montessori

Berlin, VT www.mscvt.org

Berlin, VT

All inquiries: 802.223.3320

All inquiries: 802.223.3320

Adam lifted off the ground, performing daring aerial maneuvers as I supported his body.

Janet and Adam practice the yinyang stretch

Trampoline Park

Get Air Vermont, 25 Omega Drive, Williston, 497-5031, getairvermont.com

I’VE BEEN SEMI-STALKING Get

Air Vermont’s Facebook page since I learned several months ago that the chain trampoline park was expanding to Williston. So when a post appeared in mid-March announcing opening weekend, I jumped at the chance to try it out.

Get Air Vermont has set up shop in a nondescript office park near the big-box stores at Taft Corners. When my family of four arrived on a Sunday morning, it was apparent from the sealed plastic bags of black, green and purple foam blocks that Get Air wasn’t fully set up yet. But that didn’t deter me, my husband, Jeff, 8-year-old daughter, Mira, and 6-year-old son, Theo, from jumping our hearts out.

After filling out an electronic waiver, watching a short safety video, and shelling out upwards of 70 bucks for special sticky jump socks and bracelets that entitled us to one hour of all-access jumping, we were in. We started with the dodgeball section, where jumpers can hurl lightweight balls at each other from different sides of a trampoline-covered court. After that, we bypassed Little Air — a section designated for jumpers under 46 inches — and headed for the foam pits, where Mira and Theo bounced down a short runway into a heaping pile of soft, squishy blocks and tested their balance on a wobbly rope ladder.

The biggest area is a huge field of trampolines, punctuated with carpeted platforms that offered us a

little extra bounce. There’s also a row of curved tramps we could run up and jump down from.

We worked up a sweat quickly bouncing from tramp to tramp. I was glad we’d remembered our water bottles but wished I had worn short sleeves. Overall, it was an exhilarating experience, but watching older kids do backflips and tricks nearby gave me a few pangs of anxiety. I envisioned them crashing into my kids or, worse, severely injuring themselves. Safety referees, clad in black-and-whitestriped shirts, monitored the scene, but they looked young and like they were just learning the ropes.

An hour of jumping felt like plenty that day, but Mira and I returned several weekends later to check out the features that hadn’t been open when we first went. It was considerably more crowded the second time around; at 10:15 a.m. on a Sunday, we waited in line for half an hour to get bracelets. The cargo nets, swinging sacks of foam blocks and climbing walls that comprised the obstacle courses proved fun but challenging for Mira, though teenagers seemed to navigate them with ease.

DETAILS

Get Air Vermont is open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to midnight; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. One hour of jumping costs $15 per person; two hours is $24. For kids under 46 inches, the cost is $9 for one hour and $15 for two hours. Reusable jump socks cost $3, or bring your own socks with sticky bottoms. Fill out an online waiver on the website prior to visiting to save time.

PROS

• Great exercise. Little ones can work out their wiggles, and adults can skip the gym and sweat alongside their kids.

CONS

• Crowded — expect to wait in line Arrive early to beat the rush.

• Expensive, especially if every member of your family decides to jump.

• Good for all ages. Preschoolers can play in the Small Air section while teens challenge themselves on the obstacle courses.

• Fun! Jumping alongside your kids creates a feeling of joy that you won’t get bowling or playing video games.

The throngs of people who flooded into the place that day were evidence that there’s clearly a desire to “get air” in Vermont. But because of the steep price and the slightly chaotic atmosphere, we’ll probably only visit occasionally to burn some energy as a family. K Local parents review a play space each month in “Destination Recreation.” Got a spot you’d like us to feature? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

• No food or drinks available, so bring a water bottle and snacks for a postjumping refuel.

Theo, Jeff and Mira jump in the trampoline field

On Board

Some board books are so simple they leave parents feeling, well, bored. But their sturdy pages are perfectly suited to little hands. We asked Kristen Eaton, marketing and events manager at Phoenix Books, to recommend books that are durable enough for busy babies and toddlers — and fun for parents, too.

Move!

BY LOLLY HOPWOOD AND YOYO KUSTERS;

ILLUSTRATED BY

LUKE FLOWERS

This new release combines imaginative play with movement. You can put it up to your face like the jaws of a dinosaur or hold its handles and swing it like you’re rowing a canoe. Eaton praises the book’s “interactive text and vibrant illustrations that will inspire kids and parents to get up and move!”

Little Honey Bee

BY KATIE HAYWORTH;

ILLUSTRATED BY JANE

ORMES

Readers count the blooming flowers, then peek under their leaves to discover buzzing bees. It’s “a gorgeous lift-theflap board book, perfect for celebrating spring and summer,” says Eaton.

Gone Wild

BY DAVID MCLIMANS

This Caldecott Honor alphabet book features black-and-white images of endangered animals and their scales, horns and wings. Though it has very little text, Eaton calls the illustrations “stunning.”

Animally

BY LYNN PARRISH SUTTON; ILLUSTRATED BY HAZEL MITCHELL

Written by Vermont author Sutton, this book takes readers on an adventure through the animal kingdom. Each line features a creature and an adverb that lovingly celebrate family togetherness: “I love you hugely like a whale”; “I love you shyly like a quail”; “I love you cleverly like a fox”; “I love you powerfully like an ox.” Though not technically a board book, the card-stock pages make it a good choice for toddlers. Eaton says it’s her “new favorite pick for baby-shower gifts.”

We’ve been providing pediatric care in the Burlington area for over 40 years. Our physicians and staff continue to dedicate themselves to the health and care of infants, children and adolescents from birth

To Herd and to Hold

How a dairy farmer and a baby-wrap entrepreneur juggle business and kids

NANCY AND BOB SUNDERLAND are a classic Vermont pair: a small-business entrepreneur and a fifth-generation dairy farmer, respectively. While she checks her inbox and fills orders for organic baby wraps, he tends to the cows and fields on their Addison County farm.

Their backgrounds are just as different as their jobs. Nancy grew up in suburban Essex, Vt., with a father who worked at IBM, while Bob was raised on the family farm in Bridport, working alongside his father and grandfather.

Instead of going straight to college, Nancy joined the Marine Corps after high school, attended boot camp in Parris Island, S.C., then drove trucks in Okinawa, Japan. Later, in California, she earned a Navy achievement medal for instituting a safe driving program for her squad. At age 22, she left the military and enrolled at the University of Vermont, where she studied business administration. She lived with her parents, working two part-time jobs and caring for her young daughter, Brittany, from a previous marriage.

Nancy met Bob — who had always lived in Vermont save for a six-month stint skiing with buddies in Colorado — through friends in Burlington. The two found common ground in their Christian faith, and were married five months after meeting.

By the time Nancy moved from Essex to the unfamiliar Bridport farm where Bob grew up, she was already pregnant with their first child, Abigail. Vanessa came 19 months later, and, in 2008, their daughter Laila was born. They lost a baby boy at 19 weeks in 2011, but the next year Nancy gave birth to their son, Beau.

An avid baby-wearer, Nancy would tote her little ones around while she tended to her many tasks as a mother and farmer’s wife. When Beau was born, she discovered woven wraps, which are less stretchy than knit wraps. She loved how they felt, and how they held her baby. Nancy decided to design her own, so in 2013 she enrolled in the Women’s Small Business Program at Burlington nonprofit Mercy Connections and launched Poe Wovens the following year.

Nancy is the company’s only employee, but she uses independent contractors for bookkeeping and textile and website design. She works around 25 hours a week, while her kids are at school, and has sold over 1,000 wraps during her two years in business.

As conservative Christians and Republicans, the Sunderlands are in the minority in Vermont. Hand-

written house rules and a “How to be Caught Being Good” sign — complete with Bible references — hang in the family’s bright farmhouse kitchen. Nancy writes for the Burlington VT Mom’s Blog, in part, she says, “to get a different perspective out there.”

On the morning routine:

BOB: I wake up about a quarter of five. I head out the door and go milk the cows. I like to start milking around 5:30, and then I don’t usually come in until ten o’clock or 10:30. So I miss the morning routine most of the time with the kids. Except on Thursdays [when] I don’t milk, and one day on the weekend.

NANCY: Then I get to sleep in! But normally I get up at 6:30. We are all not morning people — except him! We have to motivate each other in the morning to get moving. Usually our teenager drives herself to the high school in Middlebury, and the little kids can either ride the bus or sometimes I will bring them to school.

On chores:

NANCY: The housework does tend to pile up because I am away from the house at that crucial dinnertime. I’m in Middlebury with activities and sports for the kids. The kids hate it, but I need their help. So we have a chore chart, and I make them consistently help me with the housework. I try to get it done early in the weekend so that we can have that time together, so that it’s not like, “No, we can’t go outside to play because you have to vacuum.”

On having balance:

BOB: I think we do now, but it was really crazy when the kids were all younger. It was nuts! I mean, now if the older kids need something to do, I can take them with me. I can have them follow me around, or if they just want to go over toward the farm, they can go ride their bikes anywhere over there.

Mom: Nancy Sunderland, 38, founder and creative director, Poe Wovens

Dad: Bob Sunderland, 39, dairy farmer, Sunderland Farm Inc. (formerly known as Rolling Acres Farm)

Kids: Daughters

Brittany, 16; Abigail, 12; Vanessa, 11; and Laila, 7; and son, Beau, 4

NANCY: One of the things that helped when we had a bunch of little kids was that we had au pairs. It was a lifesaver. I mean, I remember sitting in a counseling office [before we had au pairs], and the counselor was saying, “So are you saying you need Bob to help you more with the kids and the dishes and this and that, or are you saying you just need someone to help you?” And I said, “I just need help. I don’t care where it comes from! I just know that I am drowning in this sea of little people and chores, and I am going to go bananas if I don’t get some help!”

On scheduling:

BOB: We are looking into building a new facility with robotic milkers now. That will alleviate some of the hands-on work with the cows. One of the biggest things is, it’s just going to offer flexibility. If there are things I need to do with Nancy and the kids, I’ll be able to do that easier.

NANCY: The willingness to be flexible has been key in us finding our parenting groove. I wouldn’t say we have a balance, per se, but we make it work by being flexible and adaptable to each other’s needs, work schedules, et cetera. My military training in action: adapt and overcome!

On setting an example:

NANCY: It was important to me that I wanted my girls specifically — since I have four daughters — to see that not only Dad but Mom can work and have a business and follow her dreams. And even if it doesn’t go well or make a lot of money, I’m doing something that I am passionate about. K

The willingness to be flexible has been key in us finding our parenting groove.

NANCY SUNDERLAND

Nancy and Bob Sunderland with children

Brittany, Beau, Laila, Vanessa and Abigail

COOKING CLASSES at the

TIE-DYE SMOOTHIES!

GREEN SMOOTHIE

1 cup spinach

1 banana

1 4 cup blueberries

2 Tbsp spirulina powder

1 3 cup soy milk (or rice, almond, etc!)

3 ice cubes

DIRECTIONS:

PINK SMOOTHIE

7 strawberries

7 raspberries

1 2 banana

1 Tbsp acai powder

1 3 cup soy milk

3 ice cubes

In a blender, mix green smoothie ingredients and set aside. Blend pink smoothie ingredients. To serve fill a glass 1/4 of the way with pink, then 1/4 of the way with green, and so on, to fill the glass. ENJOY!

Can’t Beet It: Baby’s First Birthday Cake

FOR MY OLDEST son Eli’s first birthday, my dad bought him a cake from a fancy upstate New York bakery. The beautiful confection — a double-chocolate affair with ganache frosting — was so rich that I was afraid to let Eli dig in. I knew his little belly couldn’t handle all that cocoa. He managed to stuff a few handfuls in his mouth before I confiscated his slice. But by the time I got him out of his high chair, he was wild-eyed with his first sugar high and looked like he’d taken a mud bath.

When our second baby, Cal, approached the big No. 1, I was determined to do a better job. I made a superhealthy “cake” with whole-wheat flour, bananas and just a touch of maple syrup. It was nutritious — but not very festive or tasty.

I finally got it just right when our youngest, Sadie, turned 1. Inspired by a British food blog, I whipped up a batch of adorable mini layer cakes, made with wholesome ingredients but still sweet enough to feel like a celebration. How did I pull it off? I mixed in beet purée to turn the cake pink.

Use more traditional buttercream between the layers, or try this simple Greek-yogurt frosting — you can use beets to color it pink as well. It will taste as good as it looks! K

Mini Layer Cakes

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/2 cups unbleached allpurpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup butter or solid coconut oil, slightly softened

2/3 cup granulated sugar

1 egg

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk (soy, almond or coconut all work as substitutes)

1/8 cup puréed beets or beet juice (for pink coloring)

Greek Yogurt Frosting

(makes enough to frost 12 mini cakes)

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups plain low-fat Greek yogurt

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth.

2. For pink icing, add a teaspoon or two of beet juice and an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar.

TO FINISH CUPCAKES:

1. Carefully slice cupcakes horizontally through the center with a serrated knife. If the tops are domed, use a knife to cut a smooth, flat top.

2. Lay the top half top-side down on a tray and frost with about a tablespoon of frosting. Use a butter knife or the back of a spoon to spread frosting to the edges of the cake.

3. Carefully place the other half with the bottom side facing up on top of the frosting, and top with another tablespoon of frosting, spreading it to the edges. If you’re feeling fancy, decorate with sprinkles.

DIRECTIONS:

(makes 12 cakes)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper baking cups. In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, baking powder and salt and whisk to combine. In the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, or with a hand mixer on medium speed, cream the butter (or coconut oil) and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla and lemon juice and beat on low speed until well combined. Add about half a cup of milk and mix on low speed until it’s incorporated. Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk this way, mixing well after each addition, until all ingredients are combined and the batter is smooth.

2. If you want your cakes pink, add the beet juice or purée. If you want to make pink and white layers, divide the batter evenly into two bowls, add beet juice to one bowl and mix well to combine.

3. Fill the muffin cups about 2/3 full with batter and bake for 18-20 minutes. Cakes are done when the tops are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

PHOTOS: SAM SIMON

A mini layer cake fit for a baby

Pink and white batter

Rickie’s Indian Restaurant

509 S. Barre Road, South Barre, 476-3563

I GREW UP in the San Francisco area, so I’ve frequented some pretty amazing Indian restaurants. For years it was my go-to comfort food. Since moving to Burlington, I’ve yet to find comparable fare, so I resigned myself to going without.

Then I got pregnant with my second child and not having Indian food was no longer an option. So one Sunday evening, four months pregnant and craving, I desperately scoured the internet for the closest authentic Indian food. That’s when I stumbled across Rickie’s Indian Restaurant, run out of a gas station in South Barre, an hour away.

I justified the drive by hitting up another destination along the way: a maple sugar farm. Bad idea. While it was a big hit with my almost-3-year-old son, Levi, we had so much fun we didn’t leave until well past nap time.

HITS:

The food — particularly the butter chicken and the naan.

• Being in a gas station is a fun change of pace, and your beverage options are limitless!

There’s a large lawn where you can relax while you wait on a nice day. Or call in your order ahead of time; with kids, 25 minutes is a long wait.

Better late than never. When we arrived at Rickie’s Indian, which from the outside looks like your average gas station, the Indian couple at the register greeted us warmly. We ordered our food from the whiteboard, then headed outside to run around during the 25-minute wait.

MISSES: No high chair.

I wanted the full Rickie’s gasstation experience, so we decided to dine in. It was a good choice. The fresh-from-the-tandoor naan was perfectly blistered, with little pools of clarified butter on crisp-edged, yet meltingly tender, triangles of dough. I hadn’t had anything like it in years.

Levi’s chicken kebab was also a hit. Marinated in yogurt, it was delicious, tender and not a bit spicy. My chicken curry had bright notes of cilantro with an earthy undertone — perfect to take the chill off a morning spent outdoors. Then there was my husband’s butter chicken. This dish was incredible — a

blend of cream and spice that left us staring at each other wide-eyed. It had just enough heat to carry the flavor through, as well as creaminess to cut the spice perfectly.

It was the best butter chicken I’ve had — not just in Vermont, but anywhere.

The food is so good, in fact, that you may forget you’re in the back of a gas station.

But your toddler will not. After a few bites of naan, Levi tried to climb into the freezer cases behind him to snag a pint of ice cream. He then proceeded to throw the epic fit we deserved after depriving him of his nap.

We packed up our food and got all the way to the Williston rest stop before he fell asleep so we could pull over and indulge. After our meal — which came to $43 for the three of us — we felt pleasantly stuffed and had plenty left over for dinner. My only regret is that we didn’t order more. K

Belly Adornment

WHEN YOU’RE PREGNANT, nine months can feel like an eternity. Yet in the grand scheme of things, it goes by in an instant. Want to immortalize the experience? We talked with three local artists whose work gives women a way to remember their pregnancies long after baby is born.

BELLY HENNA

Rebecca Freedner has been creating designs with henna — a natural paste made from the ground leaves of the henna plant — for 10 years. But she had to work up to adorning pregnant bellies. It’s “technically much more challenging” to apply the designs to curved tummies than to hands and feet, Freedner says. The Vergennes-based artisan does private appointments in her studio and travels to baby showers and blessingways, where she does henna for mothers-to-be and their guests. “I absolutely love spending time with women during such a profound time in their life,” she says. The process, which Freedner describes as “an incredibly relaxing and nurturing experience,” starts with drawing a custom design with henna paste squeezed through a hand-rolled cone made from cellophane. When the paste is dry, she covers it with a breathable gauze tape for protection and to hold it in place. After several hours, the tape is removed and it pulls off the paste, leaving a bright orange stain that gradually turns brown. Freedner says many women like to take photos of their belly art. She advises waiting two days to schedule a photo shoot, at which point the henna will have darkened.

Belly Painting

has a con-

pregnancy, and, with the

at the University of Vermont, also

studio Birth Journeys and travels

Body painter Kadina Malicbegovic venient canvas to practice her work on these days: her own skin. Malicbegovic is in her second trimester of pregnancy help of her partner, she does weekly bellypainting challenges in front of the mirror. She also offers private belly-painting sessions for couples in their homes or her studio, which she says is a great way to create special memories and bond with your partner. While enjoying music and snacks, couples work with her to create a meaningful belly design using waterbased paints made for the skin. As part of the package, Malicbegovic takes photos of the finished product. The skin artist, who came to Vermont from Bosnia as a refugee and studied psychology at the University of Vermont, also hosts belly-painting parties at Burlington childbirth-services studio Birth Journeys and travels to baby showers. She likens belly painting to wearing jewelry or expressive clothing. It allows women to “celebrate pregnancy in a unique way,” she says.

Malicbegovic charges $85 for a private one-hour belly-painting session, and $150 for a two-hour session, including photographs. Find out more about her services at littleartsyfaces.com. On Saturday, June 18, from 6-8 p.m., Malicbegovic will host a belly-painting party at Birth Journeys for $35 per mama, plus a guest. Find event info on her website.

Belly Bowls

Potter Jen Labie creates one-of-a-kind pieces in her Ferrisburgh studio. But six years ago, when a friend was pregnant, she truly broke the mold. Labie stretches clay over thirdtrimester bellies to form it into bowls that are both functional and sentimental. Her clients choose colors and surface textures, and, when the little one arrives, Labie carves the baby’s name and birth date into the bottom before firing it. There’s a rewarding perk to delivering the bowls: She gets to meet lots of newborn babies. “I really fell in love with it because I love doing custom pieces,” Labie says of working with inspiring baby bellies. “You can’t get more custom than that.”

For more information, visit heartfirehenna.com. Freedner charges $80 per hour for henna application at her studio and $95 per hour for private parties, with a two-hour minimum.

To see Labie’s belly bowls, visit leaningtreepottery.com. A belly bowl appointment in Labie’s studio costs $185 and includes two bowls.

PARENTS OFTEN ASSUME that because they’ve had at least one child, it will be easy to get pregnant again. However, some couples experience what’s known as “secondary infertility,” or difficulty conceiving again or carrying another fetus to term.

This month, Dr. Jennifer Brown, an infertility specialist with Northeastern Reproductive Medicine in Colchester, explains how — both medically and naturally — parents can increase the odds of growing their family.

KIDS VT: What percentage of your patients are trying to get pregnant again?

JENNIFER BROWN: I would estimate 30 to 40 percent. For some, it may have been many years since their last conception, or they may be trying with a new partner.

KVT: What are common causes of secondary infertility?

JB: The most common reasons are the age of the female and having had significant time pass since her first conception. Another reason is some anatomical change. So maybe the woman had surgery for a burst appendix or had a very complicated cesarean section, and now the sperm and eggs are having difficulty meeting. Sometimes the woman had a tubal ligation or the man had a vasectomy.

KVT: Are the underlying causes of secondary infertility different from the fertility issues of women who’ve never conceived?

JB: Not necessarily. The same biological principles apply: issues with the eggs, the sperm or the anatomy. Men tend to account for about 40 percent of infertility issues and women for slightly more than half, because most of the anatomy related to conception happens within the woman’s body. With about half of all couples we see, we never identify a definitive cause.

KVT: How do you try to determine the cause?

JB: Sometimes the couple’s history tells the story, such as whether they’ve both had a child before in separate relationships. There are some simple tests we can do, including a semen analysis on the man and a hormonelevels test for the woman. Typically, an ultrasound helps us evaluate several factors, including the quantity of eggs. We can also insert fluid into the uterus at the time of ultrasound to determine if her tubes are open or blocked, and if her uterus healed normally from her previous pregnancy.

KVT: Are women who can’t conceive and women who’ve had repeated miscarriages experiencing different problems?

JB: Those are different problems. The latter requires a more detailed workup because we’re looking at the environment of the uterus and hormonally what’s going on. Emotionally, it’s also very different for patients [who’ve

miscarried repeatedly], because often they’re scared to be pregnant because they don’t know what’s going to happen.

KVT: What steps can couples take before starting medical treatments?

JB: All patients are counseled on optimizing their natural fertility through lifestyle changes, such as not smoking and reducing their intake of caffeine and alcohol. Some lubricants can impair fertility. Couples are also counseled on timing their intercourse to coincide with ovulation. Some studies show that couples using a mind-body or stress-reduction program actually have higher success rates than those who don’t. We work with counselors in our area and with someone who does preconception yoga. We encourage some patients to try acupuncture.

KVT: What methods might you try if lifestyle changes don’t work?

JB: Sometimes we prescribe the ovulatory stimulant Clomid for the woman, which boosts ovulation and causes her to release one or possibly two eggs. This slightly increases the risk of twins. We may also do an IUI, or intrauterine insemination, which is a simple procedure in which we collect the man’s semen, wash it and put it in the uterus at the time of ovulation.

KVT: What if those approaches aren’t successful?

JB: The next step is a pretty big jump. We can take the eggs out of the woman’s body and fertilize them in the lab, which is what “in vitro” means. It’s a pretty big difference in

terms of technology, and it has a much higher success rate per cycle because we’re working with 10 to 15 eggs rather than just one or two, and we are controlling more factors like the egg and sperm meeting and fertilizing. It’s also more expensive and requires more office visits.

KVT: Are there other options?

JB: Yes. With some women whose eggs are not viable, we may try in vitro fertilization with a donor egg. Or, if the man has no sperm, we might use donor sperm. If there’s a problem with the uterus, we may do in vitro with a carrier uterus, or surrogate. We may even make embryos in the lab and then do a preimplantation genetic biopsy to rule out chromosomal abnormalities for older women or women who’ve had recurrent pregnancy loss.

KVT: Is there an age limit for in vitro fertilization?

JB: It used to be that we wouldn’t do IVF beyond age 42. That’s really changed with improved technology. Now, we’ll treat a 45-year-old, but we have the couple heavily involved in the decision and discuss the pros and cons of using her own egg, because the likelihood of success is much lower at that age. Alternatively, if that 45-yearold woman chooses to use a donor egg, then her success rate can be the same as much younger women. After age 45, we do extra testing on the female to make sure it’s safe for her to carry a pregnancy. After age 50, we consider those on a case-by-case basis, using a donor egg. K

intense and transformative, but because I was a passive participant. I missed out on watching the moment my babies emerged; having them placed right on my chest; breastfeeding them immediately; soothing their first cries.

I don’t have any photographs of my son’s birth. During my first C-section, I didn’t know if it was allowed. Rather than something I should record, the experience felt like something I should forget.

C-Change

Women are pushing for “gentle” cesarean sections

BY MEREDITH COEYMAN

When I was pregnant with my son seven years ago, I was fascinated by the sensations of him kicking and hiccupping inside me. And my plan was to push him out into the world naturally.

So it was tough for me to hear that I needed a cesarean section — that his birth would be a surgery, concealed behind a drape, where he’d be pulled from my numb body.

Don’t get me wrong — I was and am very thankful that I have access to modern medicine. It may have saved my son’s life. I survived his birth and had a healthy baby. And 21 months later, his sister was born the same way.

But I’ll never feel like I gave birth — not for lack of enduring something

I wish my gratitude had neatly ushered out any negative feelings, but it’s not that simple; not for me, nor, it would seem, for many other women in the U.S. who have C-sections each year — roughly 1.2 million in 2014, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Statistics show that women who have C-sections are at risk for higher rates of postnatal depression, increased difficulty with breastfeeding and a decrease in maternal satisfaction rates. I wager that in feeling like a failure, I am far from alone.

I’ve since made peace with the surgeries as concessions toward having healthy babies — I wrote about that process in an essay for the 2014 Baby & Maternity Issue of Kids VT — but I was still excited recently when I heard that hospitals were experimenting with a new approach to C-sections. Known most commonly as a “gentle” C-section, the procedure uses small modifications to the standard cesarean model in an effort to bring baby and mom together as quickly as possible. Skin-to-skin contact increases maternal bonding, breastfeeding success and postpartum healing times, and there are plenty of statistics to prove it.

Gentle C-sections invite the mother and partner to be more active participants in the process. In essence, to make the operation more like a birth.

Most of the C-section modifications are simple — like having skin-to-skin contact in the operating room; placing the IV in mom’s nondominant hand to make it easier to hold baby; placing ECG leads, which monitor the heart, off

of mom’s chest; and raising the head of the bed and using a clear drape or mirror so mom and partner can watch as baby is born. The most complex modification is placing baby directly onto mom’s chest after birth, because it requires an additional team member to pass baby to mom and monitor the situation.

The modifications themselves are not groundbreaking; some of them have been practiced widely throughout the country for years in hospitals both small and large and in private practices at the discretion of individual obstetricians. What is remarkable is that, collectively, these changes are something women can ask for by name.

Or, more accurately, names. Early in my research, I realized that there’s more than one: “natural,” “familycentered,” “gentle” and “skin-to-skin.”

A 2008 article in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology describes a “natural caesarean” as including the above modifications, but it also details “walking the baby out,” where the baby’s head is guided out but the trunk is left in utero for the lungs to be squeezed of amniotic fluid. The baby then wriggles out and is delivered directly onto mom’s chest. As opposed to having the baby pulled out, the umbilical cord cut and the baby whisked away to be examined, the “natural” cesarean birth claims to be slower, more calm and mimic what happens in a vaginal delivery. The study notes the lack of quantitative data but states that, “In qualitative terms, the natural caesarean has been positively received by the couples involved, with no adverse comment in more than 100 procedures.”

Gentle C-sections aren’t currently offered in hospitals within the UK’s publicly funded National Health Service, but they’re the subject of a trial starting this year at the University College London Hospital under the name “skin-to-skin” cesarean.

They don’t walk the babies out at the University of Vermont Medical Center. Kelley McLean, assistant professor of maternal fetal medicine there, questions that technique. But

I get to still be a player.

I’m not just succumbing to whatever is going to happen.

TERRA HEILENBACH

Terra Heilenbach and her son Ellis

McLean said they have been offering something very close to a gentle C-section for a long time. What’s new, McLean said, is “watching delivery and direct skin-to-skin contact.” Clear drapes are currently on order; in the meantime, the solid drape is dropped entirely if parents want to watch.

Those clear drapes were pioneered by William Camann, director of obstetric anesthesiology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, which did its first gentle C-section in 2013 and now estimates that 20 to 30 percent of their C-sections are “gentle.” On their website, the procedure is introduced in an article titled “The Gentle Cesarean: A New Option for Moms-to-Be at BWH,” which established “gentle” as the familiar term in the states. McLean would prefer to call it a “familycentered C-section.” Calling it gentle implies that other C-sections are not, she said. And it’s inaccurate, since the operation itself is no different. “There’s no gentle way to have a baby, it turns out, whether it’s vaginal or C-section,” she added.

McLean first heard the term in October 2015, during a “Gentle Cesarean Section” talk at a Northern New England Perinatal Quality Improvement Network conference at Dartmouth-Hitchcock medical center in New Hampshire. Soon after, a patient requested one. “It forced our hand to mobilize,” McLean said.

UVM Medical Center doesn’t have numbers on how many gentle C-sections they’ve done, but McLean estimates around five. However, that number only counts gentle C-sections that “follow each and every step,” McLean said in an email. If they were to include “people who have most steps done, and skin-to-skin as soon as the baby has been evaluated, then we would also have a very high rate of gentle C-sections.”

A patient also inspired the first official gentle C-section done by the doctors at Maitri Health Care for Women in South Burlington, said obstetrician and gynecologist Amy Thibault. (Full disclosure: She delivered my daughter.) “This is something that a patient brought to us and said, ‘What do you think of this? How can we make this happen?’ It gets us all thinking about why we do things the way we do, and is there anything we can do better? Anything we can do differently?”

Gentle C for Me?

New, so-called “gentle” C-sections involve small modifications to the standard cesarean model in an effort to make women and their partners more active participants in the experience. Interested in having one? Here’s what to ask your obstetrician.

Am I a good candidate for

the procedure?

Gentle C-sections are only appropriate in low-risk, nonemergency situations where mom and baby are healthy and show no signs of distress. Women having repeat, planned C-sections often fall into this category. Discuss it with your obstetrician long before your due date so you can make preparations.

Can I have the baby placed directly onto my chest after delivery?

This requires an extra, trained person in the operating room to deliver baby from the obstetrician to mom’s chest and to monitor baby there. Not all providers have the resources to offer this. If it’s not an option, ask for baby to be placed on mother’s (or partner’s) chest as soon as possible after birth. This is an opportunity to initiate breastfeeding during the end of surgery. If you want skin-to-skin in the operating room, request that:

1. The IV be placed in the nondominant hand. This is to allow for moms to more easily hold their baby in the operating room.

2. The ECG leads be placed off mom’s chest. This is so they are not disturbed by, and don’t interfere with, skin-to-skin contact.

Can I watch the delivery?

There’s no medical reason why mom and partner shouldn’t watch their baby’s C-section birth. However, obstetrician Amy Thibault suggests that patients be educated about what they’ll see: “By its very nature, we are

Thibault was receptive to the gentle C-section because it fit well with Maitri’s low-intervention, patient-centered birthing approach. In fact, they were already offering some of the modifications, like using a mirror to watch the baby emerge and providing skin-to-skin contact in the OR soon after birth.

assisting in the delivery of the baby by elevating the head and then pushing from above.” Thibault makes sure to tell people that they’ll feel a lot of pressure as the baby is delivered, “but for them to actually see it, that it’s not as gentle of a process as they have in their minds, I think that requires education.”

Can I have my music playing in the OR?

This varies by provider, but it’s worth asking. The concern is that music could add more noise to the OR that might distract the surgical team or interfere with their ability to communicate. “We usually have [patients] use their phones by their head so they can enjoy it, versus the whole room enjoying it,” said Colleen Whatley from Dartmouth-Hitchcock medical center.

Can the surgical team refrain from “shop talk”?

Your C-section may be routine for the surgical team, but that doesn’t mean you want to hear about what they had for breakfast while your baby is being born. Best to set intentions early and ask to keep things focused on the birth.

Can I have a doula at the birth? A birth photographer?

This varies by hospital, but Whatley said that, with advance notice, Dartmouth-Hitchcock has had birth photographers in the OR. They have also had doulas, and even an extra family member, present at nonemergency C-section births. With increased demand, this may commonly be included in the coordination of care.

Colleen Whatley, perinatal clinical specialist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, said that they have always followed a “shared decision-making philosophy” with families, and that skin-to-skin contact in the operating room is something they’ve been doing “before even connecting it with a gentle birth.” Patients haven’t asked for gentle

C-sections by name, Whatley said, but they’ve requested the modifications that define it, like watching the birth and direct skin-to-skin contact. The medical center offers clear drapes and has an extra OR hand to accommodate those requests, and Whatley estimates they’ve done five to 10 gentle C-sections in the past year.

Asked about “walking the baby out,” Whatley said “it looks lovely,” but they don’t practice it. Whatley echoed that more research is needed. “But who knows, maybe in five years we’ll be walking babies out of the abdomen?” she said, adding that they might someday get a resident who wants to research the technique.

In some nonemergency cases, when vaginal births turn surgical, birth plans can be tailored to the OR, Whatley said. So it makes sense for patients to think, “What are the things that I wanted to do? Can I still do [them] in the OR?” she explained.

At Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin, many patients come with a birth plan that includes components of a gentle C-section, explained Monica Cerminara, a registered nurse in their women and children’s unit, in an an email. “But only a few ask for the delivery option by name,” she wrote. They offer direct skin-to-skin contact for cesarean births and place the IV and ECG leads in areas that facilitate that process. They don’t use clear drapes, but Cerminara said they are looking into it.

If these changes are relatively simple and beneficial, why have doctors been slow to adopt a more family-centered approach?

In short, convention. And there’s a valid reason for that convention: because it works to control infection. “The thing that takes it from a birth to a procedure is the need for sterility,” Thibault said. Especially in the crucial moments right after the baby is born. “You’re delivering the placenta, you’re controlling bleeding, you’re making sure that you’ve turned this birth into a safe procedure,” she said.

That need for sterility is a major hurdle to innovation. Members of the team —obstetricians, residents, nurses, pediatricians and anesthesiologists — may be hesitant to change their routines, which are built around reducing risk. “Thinking about things differently is hard in medicine, because the way that you do things is

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C-Change

CONTINUED FROM P. 21

often because they work,” Thibault said. “But a lot of times in medicine, you do things because it’s what you’ve always done … Innovations happen when people think outside the box, in new directions.”

Logistically, the most difficult change is getting baby directly from incision to mama’s chest. That’s because it requires an extra person — usually a nurse or midwife — who is scrubbed and ready to take baby from the doctor to the mother, and to closely monitor the baby there. Some providers, including Maitri, don’t yet have that extra sterile person to offer direct skinto-skin placement. In the meantime, babies are brought to the warming table for examination, then placed skin-to-skin.

Because most of UVM Medical Center’s gentle C-section patients come from that hospital’s in-house midwife practice, a midwife is available to bring baby directly to mom’s chest. Another recent advancement: Rather than have pediatricians at every C-section, their presence in the OR is risk-based. This “makes it a little bit more intimate, because the nurses who are going to be taking care of the baby while it’s born are the same nurses who are going to be in the room afterwards,” Thibault said.

Given that pediatricians sometimes bring a team, doing away with unnecessary pediatric support can also mean up to four fewer strangers in the room during the operation.

C-section is the plan, flexibility is important, because things can change at any moment. For example, if a baby shows signs of distress at birth, skinto-skin contact may be delayed so the pediatrician can do an examination.

Since Thibault did my second C-section — a planned, repeat procedure — I couldn’t resist the urge to ask if I would have been a good candidate for the gentle version. She thought I could have, but even just five years ago, gentle C-sections weren’t part of the discussion.

Fortunately for Terra Heilenbach, they are today.

When Heilenbach had her son Finch in November 2011, she'd planned on having a home birth. But when pain prevented her from eating or drinking, she transferred to UVM Medical Center, then Fletcher Allen Health Care. She later developed an infection, and when labor wasn’t progressing, her doctor recommended a C-section.

“We were very shocked going from home to full-on C-section in the hospital with people we didn’t know and that whole vibe,” Heilenbach said. With her son Illo, born in May 2014, she tried for a vaginal birth and pushed for three and a half hours, but her history of infection, coupled with the fact that the baby wasn’t descending into the birth canal, sent her back to the operating room.

When your day doesn’t go as planned, our goal is to get you back on your way within an hour. We offer quick, quality care, on your schedule, from the people you know and trust.

It’s important to note that gentle C-sections are only appropriate in very specific circumstances. “We’re talking about a small number of C-sections, where you’re not doing this in an emergency, you’re not doing this when a labor has not succeeded, you’re not doing this in a breech delivery,” Thibault explained. “You’re talking about the absolute lowest-risk babies and lowest-risk moms, and that’s where this is really appropriate.” And even when a gentle

Like me, she missed seeing the moment her first two babies were born. “I felt very disconnected from my body for the first time in my life,” Heilenbach told me. “I felt like I was cut off, and that’s been something to heal from for me: How do I reconnect to my body, that I thought could do anything?”

Toward the end of her third pregnancy, Thibault, Heilenbach’s obstetrician, mentioned having a gentle C-section. Heilenbach hadn’t heard of it but wanted to try. I talked to her one morning in early April, just four days before the operation. “I’m

This is something that a patient brought to us and said, “What do you think of this? How can we make this happen?”

AMY THIBAULT, MAITRI HEALTH CARE FOR WOMEN

looking forward to seeing whatever I do see,” she said, “just to see that kid come out.”

As her third son, Ellis, was born on April 5, Heilenbach watched in a mirror. “It was so awesome,” she told me afterward while snuggling her 10-day-old baby. A resident was able to take photos on the other side of the drape, and as we scrolled through them, Heilenbach recounted the experience. “I had been worried that I would feel anxious,” she said of watching him emerge from her body. “But I didn’t care at all. It really connected it, to see him in that raw form, not tidied up and all that.” He went to the warming table to have fluid cleared from his lungs, then was placed on Heilenbach’s chest where he breastfed for a bit while they sewed her up.

Could all nonemergency

C-sections be “gentle” someday?

The fact that they are being done at teaching hospitals like UVM Medical Center and DartmouthHitchcock suggests they might. “In a big teaching hospital, when it’s adopted as a policy … it sanctions it,

or adds weight to it,” Thibault said. It also educates residents about alternative ways of thinking. “As with most innovations in obstetrics, that training trickles down to outside hospitals,” she said.

Birth plans, it seems, may increasingly make their way into the operating room. McLean predicts that “as the term ‘gentle C-section’ is better understood by patients, providers will more commonly make these small modifications.”

The changes may be small, but, cumulatively, their impact has great potential. “The intangible outcome — the idea that women can feel more comfortable with their birth and were a part of it — is just as important as anything else,” McLean said.

Learning about gentle C-sections made Heilenbach aware of options she didn’t know she had, and in preparing for the birth, that made a huge difference. “I get to still be a player," she said. “I’m not just succumbing to whatever is going to happen.” K

Amy Thibault (right) delivering Ellis as mom, Terra, watches in the mirror

Since the release of his first children’s album in 1976, Singable Songs for the Very Young, there hasn’t been a more enduring and successful kids’ entertainer on the planet than Raffi Cavoukian — better known simply as Raffi. In 1992, the Washington Post called the Egyptianborn Canadian songwriter “the most popular children’s singer in the English-speaking world.” That’s likely still true given that he’s sold more than 12 million albums in North America alone over his four-decadeslong career. And that number is apt to grow as “Beluga grads” — Raffi’s term for adults who were raised on his music — introduce their own kids to classics such as “Down by the Bay,” “Bananaphone” and, of course, “Baby Beluga.”

But here’s the remarkable thing about Raffi: He’s achieved phenomenal success without straying from his moral compass. He’s never accepted a commercial endorsement. He’s never directed advertising at children. He’s turned down films and TV shows. He once declined a gig at Madison Square Garden because the arena was too big.

It sounds precious, but everything Raffi does is done with his littlest fans in mind. That’s surely true of his music. But it’s also a guiding principle in his work as an author — he’s written several books for both kids and adults — and as an activist. Raffi is the founder of the British Columbiabased Centre for Child Honouring, an organization that advocates for organizing and advancing society around the needs of its youngest members. Even when he writes music aimed at adults, such as “Wave of Democracy,” his recent folky, gently reggae-tinged ode to Vermont senator and presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders, he’s thinking about the children.

“It makes a tremendous amount of sense to have the kind of society that Bernie is talking about, where health care and education is accessible to everyone, children especially,” he recently told Kids VT

Raffi is presently touring the United States and Canada in celebration of the 40th anniversary of Singable Songs, as well as in support of his latest album, Owl Singalong — his 14th album of original children’s

Sing So Free

BY DAN BOLLES

music. That tour includes a stop at the Flynn MainStage in Burlington on Thursday, May 19. Ahead of that show, Kids VT spoke with Raffi by phone from his home in western Canada.

KIDS VT: Let’s start with the Bernie song. Why is a Canadian children’s musician writing about a U.S. presidential hopeful?

RAFFI: Ever since I had long hair

back in the early 1970s, and even before then, in my teens in Toronto, I was moved by the words of Bobby Kennedy and Martin Luther King [Jr.]. And, as I evolved as a person, I kept [being] interested in what was happening in the U.S. So imagine my excitement with Bernie Sanders, who I think is the candidate of a lifetime. He’s the one I’ve been waiting for. Somebody who will tell the truth and

who is brave enough to face what Jimmy Carter calls a rigged system, an oligarchy ruled by the few, who says we need to reclaim democracy for “we the people.” That message has inspired millions. And it certainly inspired me, and I wrote “Wave of Democracy.”

KVT: Throughout your career, you’ve been adamant about not accepting commercial endorsements and not targeting children in advertising.

RAFFI: [With a Bernie accent] I don’t have any super PAC money!

KVT: Hey, that was a pretty good impression.

RAFFI: Thank you, thank you.

KVT: So with the rise of what you could call the “children’s industrial complex,” that’s a lot of money to leave on the table. Have you ever been tempted to just cash in?

RAFFI: I’ve never heard that term, but I like it. It’s simply unethical to directly advertise to children who aren’t old enough to understand what they’re being sold.

Secondly, when music is what you’re known for and that’s your joy and what you want to share with audiences, why do you want to suddenly sell things to that audience? It doesn’t make sense, really. Except to make money, and that’s not a good enough reason to do anything. I respect children as an audience and a child as a whole person. So that’s been my stand in the 40 years I’ve been doing this work.

You might say Bernie and I share one trait, which is that we can’t be bought.

KVT: I suspect those same principles tie into your work with the Centre for Child Honouring.

RAFFI: The infant of every culture is the same physiological human being. That’s a very exciting and unifying fact to celebrate, that in our earliest beginnings we are all the same creature. Whatever skin color, culture, economic status, we are all the same. So from that point of unity then, we can celebrate our differences. We don’t have to fear each other.

That’s the universality of child

Children’s entertainer Raffi on Bernie, music and inspiration

COURTESY OF CENTRE FOR CHILD HONOURING

Planning a kids

honoring that I love to spread as a message, because it’s how we treat the very young in our society that gives us the best chance at making peaceful and sustainable cultures. The early years are the foundational years. Our first impressions of life, how we are loved and cared for, these are what set the emotional tone of our being. And studies show that early experiences make for a lifetime of outcomes in health, productivity, resourcefulness.

KVT: I don’t imagine you got into music thinking you’d become a children’s entertainer. How did that happen?

RAFFI: I was trying to have a career much like James Taylor’s career. Then something happened to me, and I came to find out how important music can be in the life of young children. I was, for a time, married, to a kindergarten teacher, a most compassionate teacher who taught me all about the child as a whole person. And that was the greatest learning in my life. So, through knowing her, I came to make an album for children.

For me, discovering the joy of making music for children changed my life. Not only because the albums became so popular, but because of what it did for my heart. It opened me up to the importance of childhood in a lifetime. And it’s made for a remarkable and wonderful career that I’m privileged to still enjoy.

KVT: A good children’s album needs to be geared toward kids but also be palatable for adults, since parents will most likely be listening to those albums on repeat. How do you strike that balance in your own work?

RAFFI: I think that, right from the beginning, I made sure the music pleased my ears. So I figured if it pleased me, it would probably please other adults as well. It’s the musicality. And keep in mind that children love all kinds of music, so you don’t

need to write in one narrow style. Over my career I’ve enjoyed making the finest music that I can, high quality for an important audience, keeping in mind that their parents would also be listening.

KVT: Many people who grew up listening to Raffi now have kids of their own and bring them to your shows. It’s sort of a brilliant model for success, because you’re always going to have new fans coming along.

RAFFI: That’s true. Every three years I have a new audience. [Laughs.] But what’s truly amazing is how my love for children keeps growing. I have a deep appreciation of their intelligence, their candor, their brilliantly playful way of being in the world. It’s just really inspiring.

KVT: Speaking of inspiration, where do you find it when writing children’s music?

RAFFI: Well, part of the inspiration for my new album, Owl Singalong, comes from my grandniece, who, when she was about a year and a half and we would talk with my sister on Skype, would hold up a stuffed owl and say “owl” over and over. The other part was the owls in my backyard, who … [laughs], who, who are amazing.

KVT: So inspiration tends to just sort of show up?

RAFFI: In a way, yes. But in any genre you would tailor your music to your audience, I would imagine. So for children, you keep in mind that they’re new in the world and tailor the references to what they know and also to their imagination, which is quite vast. And you keep it playful. K

Monday, June 20, 2016

It’s how we treat the very young in our society that gives us the best chance at making peaceful and sustainable cultures.

RAFFI

More Tough Choice$

Readers respond to our April cover story about the “benefits cli ”

We hoped to get people talking with the cover story of our April issue, “Tough Choices: Vermont parents are opting out of work to retain their benefits.” Mission accomplished: Dozens of comments started rolling in at kidsvt.com and on social media the day our Money Issue was published.

Writer Katie Titterton definitely struck a chord with readers, many of whom empathized with her decision to quit her full-time job in order to save on childcare costs and qualify for health care subsidies. Many more shared their own experiences navigating the “benefits cliff” — the point at which an increase in income triggers a loss of government-funded benefits, resulting in a net loss to a family’s bottom line.

We heard so many stories from families on the edge that we decided to make room for more of them in this issue. Titterton interviewed a few of our online commenters, and we’ve excerpted those conversations here.

We want policy makers to read these stories as they grapple with changes to health insurance and childcare subsidies. And we want our readers to see these stories and feel less alone. Trust us when we say that there are many more where these came from.

Read Titterton’s original report — as well as comments from former legislator Tom Pelham, Vermont, and former lieutenant governor and Agency of Human Services secretary Doug Racine —

— as well as comments from cofounder of Campaign for Vermont, and former lieutenant at kidsvt.com.

Not having to worry about health insurance would be worth extra taxes.

We had a baby in November. The plan was for my husband to keep his full-time job and for me to work part time from home. When we did the calculation, it was kinda like, if I work 12 hours a week, we’ll be under that cli ; if I work 20, I’ll be over. It does not make financial sense for me to work two extra hours a week and then lose $5,000 in health insurance. So we’re trying to stay under that, even though there are opportunities for me to work more.

My husband’s from Montréal, so we’re up there pretty often. We have a couple of friends who’ve had kids, and, without a thought, they’ve taken a year o . I think a lot of our friends there would say their health care isn’t perfect, but, when it comes down to it, it’s just not something they’re worrying about.

I feel like there’s a perception that Americans wouldn’t be willing to pay more taxes. From where I’m sitting, I’d happily pay more taxes. I’d pay $5,000, I’d pay $10,000 to know I had universal health care and it isn’t going to sink my family.

NEILY JENNINGS STARKSBORO

Jennings has a 5-month-old and works as the communications coordinator at Common Ground Center.

Rent and student loans are nonnegotiable bills, so childcare comes out of the grocery budget.

All we’re running into is dead end, dead end. Rent goes up every single year; my income’s gone down. But we still don’t meet [the income threshold to be eligible for state benefits]. Now we’re negative $300 a month. So I had to call my parents. They’ve given us money for food, gas.

could go to childcare. But we have bills. Our bills, like most people’s don’t just include rent and utilities.

No matter what way we turn, we’re faced with sacrificing vital, important things in order to be a functioning family. We can’t not have a house. We can’t not eat. It’s been absolutely horrible.

[Assistance is] based on your income. Nobody really cares how much you spend [on bills and necessities]; all that matters is how much you make. We’re in an age where thirtysomething and under are paying o student loans. People aren’t getting raises that are matching how much rent is going up.

We are taking people out of the workforce, or putting them in so much that they’re not present for their families.

KATE ANGER

SOUTH BURLINGTON

Anger has a 3-month-old and returned to her full-time job in social services at the end of April.

Wages stay stagnant, and new cliffs keep appearing.

I was a single mom for many years and lived in low-income housing. In that time, I worked more than 30 hours a week, and went to school, and got a degree, and did all the life things you’re supposed to do to get ahead. But because we live in a place where wages are so low, I always qualified for benefits. It took me years to climb out of that wage level. As I climbed, I climbed out of certain benefits, like food stamps.

that’s making all these benefits calculations not really work for here, because those federal benefits are calculated from national norms.

My own personal solution this year, for ecological and financial reasons, was to stop driving my car. For me, it was, This has to be absorbed somehow. What else am I gonna cut out?

EMER POND FEENEY BURLINGTON

Feeney has an 18-year-old and works fulltime as a clerk at the Fletcher Free Library.

Even a good job isn’t a buffer when childcare is scarce and expensive.

When the babies were born and I was married, we were a two-income family. We ended up finding out right away that there weren’t a lot of [childcare] providers, period. I knew we wouldn’t qualify for benefits, so we structured our whole life around putting the twins in care at a local center. We lived as though we were broke. Eked along, knowing they wouldn’t always be in childcare, and then we’d have that income back, and then we’d be OK.

Fast-forward to now, and my income is just over the threshold for any subsidy for childcare. What has happened is, we spent every dollar we had in the world — tax returns, work bonus — on childcare, childcare, childcare. In the fall I’m putting them in a center with a preschool because there’s that universal pre-K money [Act 166 entitles Vermont children 3 and older to 10 hours per week of free pre-K]. That really makes a di erence.

Now the capacity issue comes into play — every other family in the area is trying to find a center that accepts that money.

CATHY RESMER, EXECUTIVE EDITOR

CATHY RESMER,

I can’t defer my college loans forever. I have a car payment so I can work, because my job requires me to have a car, and that money, in theory,

As you move up, you’d think the stress of living paycheck to paycheck would lessen, but what you find with the benefits cli is, you’re moving up but you’re not making any progress. Sometimes you’re working more hours or you’re stressing your life out in more ways to make $200, but that isn’t reflected in your [take-home pay].

The interesting thing is, you start hitting the tax-breaks cli . The tax breaks you qualified for as a lower-income person start disappearing, and when the child turns 16, you lose tax-breaks, as if you weren’t still caring for [your child]. My taxes went up. My income didn’t go up.

The cost of living in Burlington, and housing is the best representative of this, has increased multifold since I grew up here. And yet we haven’t seen a commensurate increase in wages. So

I have to keep working because I’m [now] a single parent. I don’t have the option to look at the economics and stay home. I’m looking for childcare solutions that are almost impossible to find — which will take this pre-K money, and have two spots, in a small community. It’s this vice grip, constantly.

SHAUNA HILL MONTPELIER

Hill has 3-year-old twins and works full-time as the assistant director of a youth mental health program.

2016 CAMP GUIDE

Get out your summer calendar! If you haven’t already signed your kids up for camp, it’s time to take action. Check out all the programs advertising in this year’s Kids VT camp guide, and find more information about local camps at kidsvt.com.

Band-Aids and Bonfires

2016 CAMP GUIDE

Nurses treat kids and find community at sleepaway camp

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG

When someone suggested that Roxana De La Rosa apply for a nurse position at Camp Birch Hill in New Durham, N.H., two years ago, she balked. “I was like, ‘No, thanks. That doesn’t sound like fun to me at all,’” she remembers. The prospect of working solo, around the clock, without parents as buffers between her and the kids, didn’t appeal to her.

But she ended up signing on for a two-week session so her then-12-year-old daughter, Jillian, could attend camp for free. “It was the event of her life,” De La Rosa says. Despite handling a lice outbreak and nursing her own broken foot that first summer, she was hooked. In July, she will return for her third year.

“I felt loved,” she says. “Nursing, sometimes, is a thankless profession. But they appreciated me, and I liked that.”

As thousands of Vermont kids start to prepare for their summer camp adventures, dozens of camp nurses do the same. The American Camp Association, the nation’s only accrediting body for camps, requires that residential camps have a registered nurse or licensed physician on-site daily.

Being a nurse at a sleepaway camp isn’t your typical nursing gig. While keeping kids safe and healthy is the top priority, sitting around a campfire and making duct-tape wallets are also part of the job. A camp nurse’s office may be a screened-in porch or a tent outfitted with cots. And leeches, head lice and homesickness come with the campers.

The best camp nurses assimilate into the community and support the camp’s mission, says Jon Kuypers, longtime director of YMCA Camp Abnaki, a North Hero boys’ camp where the motto is “Help the other fellow.” Of course, nurses must administer medications and treat twisted ankles, bumps, bruises, allergies and illnesses, Kuypers says. But he prizes a nurse who can also teach

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Band-Aids and Bonfires

self-care — not only to campers but to counselors, who serve as examples. “They’re the ones who have to role model, the drinking the water, taking their meds, getting to bed early and all that stuff,” he explains.

Since counselors must act as first responders, a good nurse will teach them to distinguish between minor injuries that require just a BandAid and more serious physical and emotional matters best handled by a nurse, says Kuypers.

Some camp nurses are full time, working

at facilities that offer a variety of year-round programs. But many are seasoned professionals who work as school nurses, as college nursing faculty or as part-time nurses the rest of the year, says Tracey Gaslin, executive director of the Association of Camp Nurses. Gaslin points out that some nurses take weeks or even months off of their full-time jobs to work at camp. Some parents sign on because the job offers a child free or reduced camp tuition. Other nurses simply love the work.

“Camp is one of the

The nurse’s office at Camp Birch Hill

Nursing, sometimes, is a thankless profession. But they appreciated me, and I liked that.

ROXANA DE LA ROSA, CAMP BIRCH HILL NURSE

Roxana De La Rosa

Talent Development Institute

2016 CAMP GUIDE

Band-Aids and Bonfires

few places where children with similar conditions, likes, desires or talents are together for an extended period of time,” Gaslin writes in an email. “Camps serve adults and children, the well and unwell, and ambulatory and nonambulatory individuals. Camp nurses feel strongly that every child should have an opportunity to attend camp and that this rite of passage will help them grow to become active and productive adults.”

I’d go home on Friday afternoon and just flop.

Alice Daley, who spent 15 years as a camp nurse — first at Camp Kiniya in Colchester, then at Rock Point Summer Camp in Burlington — is a retired school nurse from the Milton Town School District. In a camp setting, she got a different perspective on kids than the one she had in school. “When they’re at camp, they want to be there,” she explains. “They’re having a great time.”

Daley had a great time, too. She fondly remembers singing the Johnny Appleseed song and playing games of four square and human foosball during her summers at camp.

But camp nursing is also a mentally taxing job that comes with long hours. “I was always on,” Daley says.

Each Rock Point sleepaway session runs five nights, from Sunday through Friday. In her early years there, Daley carried a radio. Later, it was a cell phone. They were always on, too. “Yes, I slept,” she says, “but not really well. I’d go home on Friday afternoon and just flop.”

Through the years, Daley treated kids with diabetes and seizure conditions, but she never dealt with anything too serious.

“I’ve had a couple stitches from zebra mussels,” she says, “but those happen anywhere.”

One might expect that injuries are commonplace at a circus camp where tumbling, trapeze and tightrope walking are part of the curriculum. But Alice Day, the nurse at Circus Smirkus Camp in Greensboro, hasn’t dealt with a single broken bone in her nine summers there. Smirkus campers must adhere to strict safety protocols, and “kids know that they are not allowed to do what we call ‘flippy, upside-down things’ outside of the [circus] tents,” she says. A dislocated shoulder and badly sprained ankle are the worst injuries she’s seen, and those happened to staffers

CONTINUED FROM P.31 BAND-AIDS

CAMPS IN THIS ISSUE

Notch Summer Camp

Celebrating 16 Years!

July

- July 15th

In order to reach new musical heights, The VT Jazz Camp 2016 curriculum/activities will include:

Improvisation Sessions Basic Theory and Music Composition Listening and Jamming Sessions

Our faculty includes the area’s finest musicians and teachers

Decades of experience as music teachers, band directors, and stage performers. Go to www.vtjazzcamp.com for a registration form.

Or, contact Tony Pietricola at tonyvje@gmail.com

at the Elley-Long Music Center at Saint Michael’s College, 223 Ethan Allen Ave., Colchester, VT

Montpelier Recreation Department Summer Day Camp

Licensed Child Care Program

State subsidy is available upon request.

Kindergarten- 12 years old

Weekly Monday – Friday

July 13 through August 12

7:30AM drop off, 4:45PM pick up

Half Days or Full Days

Montpelier Recreation Field

Special Events Weekly& Swimming Everyday

RESIDENT FEES

$120.00 per Week-5 Full Days

$70.00 – 5 half days mornings or afternoons

ADDITIONAL FAMILY MEMBERS

$105.00 per Week- 5 Full Days

$60.00 – 5 half days mornings or afternoons

NON-RESIDENT FEES

$160.00 per Week – 5 Full Days

$100.00 – 5 half days morning or afternoons

ADDITIONAL FAMILY MEMBERS

$140.00 per Week – 5 Full Days

$90.00 – 5 half days mornings or afternoons

Lunch Program TBA

55 Barre Street, Montpelier, VT 05602

Other Summer Opportunities

Tennis Lessons – Sessions running all summer Pool Passes

Swimming Lessons June through August

Youth Sports Camps and much more!

For more information, please call our Office: (802) 225-8699 or visit us online: www.montpelierrec.org

Band-Aids and Bonfires

— professional performers who train rigorously to perfect new tricks.

Day, a school nurse at Twinfield Union School in Plainfield, took the Smirkus Camp nursing job to cover the cost of sending her own three children there. “And here we are, like, 10 years later,” she says. Her twin daughters, Abbey and Lucy, now 20, are Smirkus camp counselors, and her 18-year-old son, Ivan, travels as a performer with Circus Smirkus during the summer. “So my husband stays home with the cat,” Day says.

CONTINUED FROM P.33

This summer, she’ll bring her tutu and superhero cape to camp for special dress-up days, happy to be part of a staff that tries to make every child feel special. At the end of each session, the 100 or so campers will sit in the giant circle they call a “smirkle.” Each will share thoughts about camp, and, inevitably, someone will say that they finally feel like they belong somewhere, and everyone will cry. In moments like these, Day knows that she’s part of something that is changing kids’ lives.

“Camp is a magical place, right?” Day says. So when the school year ends and daylight stretches long into the evening, she and other nurses will yearn for cabins, campfires and camaraderie. They’ll pack their shorts and their sunscreen and head back for another year.

“It’s a chance to get outside of your regular life,” Day says. “It’s something that I look forward to probably as much as the kids.” K

Nurse Alice at Smirkus Camp

Alice Day

It’s a chance to get outside your regular life.

ALICE DAY, SMIRKUS CAMP NURSE

Where the Wild Things Are

July 4-8 9-1pm Ages 6-13

The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet

July 13-17 9-1pm Ages 6-13

Dancing Up A Storm!

July 18-22 9-1pm Ages 6-11

Aladdin

July 25-29, Aug 1-5 9-1pm Performances on Aug 6 & 7 Ages 6-13

Superheroes

June 13-17 2-6pm Ages 6-13

Pippi Longstocking

July 11-15 2-6pm Ages 6-13

The Hobbit

July 18-22 2-6pm Ages 6-13

The Secret Garden

June 13-17 9-1pm Ages 6-13

Fairy Tales and Folktales

June 20-24 9-1pm Ages 6-13

The Velveteen Rabbit

June 27-July 1 9-1pm Great for all ages

CALENDAR

Fr dom Fighters

In 1776, Fort Ticonderoga bustled with the beginning of the American Revolution. A MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND CELEBRATION at the 18th-century fort honors this past with a history-rich lineup of events. A living display shows how farmers reinforced the stonewalled garrison using axes, picks and hammers. Fife and drum music keeps the atmosphere lively, while costumed citizensturned-soldiers demonstrate their skills loading and firing muskets. If the gun smoke and crowds get too thick, the Fort’s historic gardens and walking trails offer a colorful respite.

Highlights

FRIDAY, MAY 6 & SATURDAY, MAY 7

MONTPELIER MAYFEST

The City of Montpelier swings into the spring season with an Art Walk, an all-you-can-eat breakfast, an Ultimate Frisbee Tournament, a bike swap and the farmers market opening day. All ages. Various locations in Montpelier. Various prices. See website for details. Info, 2239604. montpelieralive.org

SATURDAY, MAY 14

BIG TRUCK DAY BURLINGTON

Honk, honk! Curious kids sit in the driver’s seats of fire, dump and tow trucks. Music, local food and ra e prizes round out the day. St. Joseph’s School parking lot, Burlington. Ages 14 and under. $10 per family. Info, 864-8191.

MONDAY, MAY 23

WORLD TURTLE DAY

These amazing animals are celebrated locally and internationally through special exhibits, crafts and activities. All ages. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlinton. $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 8641848. echovermont.org

SATURDAY, MAY 28 ‘CELEBRATION OF DANCE’

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

CELEBRATION: Monday, May 30, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., at Fort Ticonderoga. All ages. $9-22; free for children under 5. Info, 518585-2821. fortticonderoga.org

Vermont Ballet Theater School performs selections from Romeo and Juliet and Sleeping Beauty, plus Broadway, contemporary and lyrical jazz, with special guest artist Samuel Wilson from the Washington Ballet. All ages. Flynn MainStage, Burlington. $1725. Info, 863-5966. flynntix.org

SPOTLIGHTS & LISTINGS BY BRETT STANCIU

COURTESY OF FORT TICONDEROGA

3 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Creative Tuesdays: Young artists involve their imaginations with recycled materials. All ages. Kids under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Baby & Maternity

Breastfeeding Support Clinic: A certified lactation counselor answers nursing questions in a supportive setting. Prenatal Method Studio, Burlington, 9 a.m. $15. Info, 829-0211.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: Moms tote their pre-crawling kids to an all-levels flowing yoga class focused on bringing the body back to strength and alignment in a fun and nurturing environment. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. $15, or $130 for 10-class pass. Info, 864-9642.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: Mothers-to-be build strength, stamina, comfort and a stronger connection to their baby. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 4:15-5:30 p.m. $15 or $130 for 10-class pass. Info, 864-9642.

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: Brand-new mamas and their littles relax, stretch and bond. For moms with infants and early crawlers. Emerge with Amy Lepage-Hansen, Montpelier, 10:45 a.m.-noon. $15. Info, 223-5302.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: Women prepare for birth through yoga, with a focus on strengthening the body and mind. See prenatalmethod.com for class descriptions. Prenatal Method Studio, Burlington, 4:30-5:30 & 6-7 p.m. $15. Info, 829-0211.

Food

Pig Roast: Live music and children’s activities make for a festive celebration sponsored by Roots the Restaurant to support the Wonderfeet Kids’ Museum. Downtown Rutland, 4-8 p.m. $10 for food. Info, 282-2678.

Games

Fairfax Family Game Night: Families take over the library’s tabletops for a fun evening. Ages 5 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Gaming For Teens & Adults: Players of all skill levels enjoy card playing and other 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.

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: Novice and experienced players team up for card playing. All ages. Haston Library, Franklin, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Library & Books

Hinesburg Crafternoons: Maker-minded kiddos create colorful calendar projects. Ages 7 and up. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 482-2878.

Martha the Talking Dog in Rutland: In celebration of Children’s Book Week, the canine star of Susan Meddaugh’s Martha series mingles with her fans. All ages. Phoenix Books Rutland, 4:306 p.m. Free. Info, 855-8078.

Spanish Musical Kids: Niños celebrate Latin American culture through tunes and games en español. Ages 1-5 with a caregiver. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Movies

Youth Media Lab: Aspiring movie makers film, edit and produce videos while exploring the depths of digital media. Grades 4 and up. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Music

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Preschool Music: Bitty ones dance and sing to a brisk beat. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

4 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Arts for Tots: Music, movement, free play and projects inspire creativity in youngsters. Ages

2-4. Purple Crayon/ArtisTree, South Pomfret, 10-11 a.m. $12 drop-in; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: New moms tune in on toning and relaxation.

Prenatal Method Studio, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15. Info, 829-0211.

Prenatal Method Prenatal

Barre: Expectant mothers get a ballet-inspired workout. Prenatal Method Studio, Burlington, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $15. Info, 829-0211.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Games

Lego Mindstorms Robotics: Maker-minded kiddos pursue simple programming and robotics. Grades 4-6. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3:15 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

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

ClaEvoBaby & EvoKids Yoga at Evolution

Prenatal & Family Yoga Center: Register now for spring and summer baby and kids’ yoga classes. Join us to bond with your baby or give your child tools to help self-regulate and find more joy. Classes seven days a week for all ages 6 weeks to teen. See detailed schedule on website for age groupings, descriptions and pricing. Location: Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, 20 Kilburn St., Burlington. Info,  evolutionprenatalandfamily.com, 899-0339.

Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga Classes at Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center: Have a more comfortable pregnancy and prepare for birth with stretching, strengthening and relaxation in prenatal yoga — and then bring your body back to balance and strength in postnatal yoga. Join our community of mothers at any point in your pregnancy, and six weeks or later in your postpartum time (until baby is crawling). No yoga experience necessary. Prenatal Yoga: Sundays, 10 a.m.; Mondays, 5:45 p.m.; Tuesdays, 4:15 p.m.; Wednesdays, 5:45 p.m.; Thursdays, 12:15 p.m.; Fridays, 8:15 a.m. Postnatal Yoga: Sundays, 12:15 p.m.; Tuesdays, 10:45 a.m.; Thursdays, 10:45 a.m.; Fridays, noon (postnatal core).  Drop-ins welcome, $15/class or $130/10 class pass. Location: Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, 20 Kilburn St., Burlington.  Info, evolutionprenatalandfamily.com, 899-0339.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for children promotes self-esteem, self-defense and bully-proofing, self-confidence, character development, a physical outlet with discipline, cooperation with other children, respect for peers and adults, perseverance and a healthy lifestyle. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will help your kids to learn realistic bullyproofing and self-defense skills that they can use for the rest of their lives. Regular BJJ training builds endurance, resilience, patience, discipline, self-respect and helps to instill courage and self-confidence. First class is free! Location: 55 Leroy Rd., Williston. Please stop by our school, call 660-4072 or email julio@bjjusa.com to register your son or daughter and receive a free uniform with their first month enrollment. vermontbjj.com.

Summer Day Camp: Come and be a part of a great summer day camp! Fishing, swimming, bike trails, fields for games. Horseback riding, paddle boat races and other fun activities! Ages 7-16, coed. July 18-22, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Suggested donation: $100. 175 Sweet Hollow Road, Sheldon. Info, godsvision.net.

Summer Violin Lessons: Timothy Swanson o ers individualized violin lessons to beginner and intermediate students from his South Burlington studio. Suzuki/Zweigg method. Opportunities for growth and enrichment are plentiful. Foster a lifelong love of music with this amazing instrument! Excellent references.  Info, 373-7223, tbswanson@gmail.com, tbswanson.com.

Kids & Parents’ Taiko Drumming in Burlington: Japanese Drumming with Stuart Paton of Burlington Taiko! Tuesday, 4-5:20 p.m. Starting June 21. $75/child or $125/ parent-child for five weeks (no class July 5). Location: 208 Flynn Ave, Suite 3-G (12 steps from Chef’s Corner South End). A fiveperson minimum is required to run most classes, so invite friends! Please register online or come directly to the first class! Info, 999-4255, burlingtontaiko.org.

Kids & Parents’ World Drumming in Montpelier: World drumming with Stuart Paton of Burlington Taiko! Thursday, 4:30-5:20 p.m., starting June 23. $60 or $105/parent-child for five weeks (no class July 7). Location: Capital City Grange, 6612 Vermont 12, Berlin. A six-person minimum is required to run most classes, so invite friends! Please register online or come directly to the first class. Info, 999-4255, burlingtontaiko.org.

Kids & Parents’ World Drumming In Burlington: Djembe or Conga Drumming with Stuart Paton of Burlington Taiko! Wednesday, 4:30-5:20 p.m., starting June 22. $60/ child or $105/parent-child for 5 weeks (no class on July 6). Location: 208 Flynn Ave, Suite 3-G (12 steps from Chef’s Corner South End). A five-person minimum is required to run most classes, so invite friends! Please register online or come directly to the first class! Info, 999-4255, burlingtontaiko.org.

Library & Books

Creative Writing Club: Emerging literati let their imaginations loose through prompts, games and other activities. Ages 9 and up. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Dorothy Canfield Fisher Book Discussion: Avid readers ages 8-11 enjoy a spirited chat around the award-winning The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories: Seeds: Wee gardeners sow small germs of spring and hear the story of sprouts. Ages 3-6. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Free with museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

Parenting

Hinesburg Nurturing Parent Program: Moms and dads deepen parent-child communication skills, develop empathy and determine how to empower their families. A light dinner and childcare are included. Hinesburg Community School, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 498-0607.

5 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

Clay for Tots: Little potters practice, poke and play with a malleable medium. Ages 3-6. Purple Crayon/ArtisTree, South Pomfret, 10:30-11:15 a.m. $12 per drop-in class; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Mother’s Day Drop-In Craft: Children of all ages create a customized card for mom, complete with their photo. St. Albans Free Library, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Pirates and Mermaids: The magic of the open seas sets the scene for nautical-themed preschool art projects. Purple Crayon/ArtisTree, South Pomfret, 9:30-10:15 a.m. $12 per drop-in class; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Preschool Art Drop-In: Petite Picassos craft cool projects. Ages 6 months-5 years with accompanying adult. BCA Center, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $5-6. Info, 865-7166.

Webby’s Art Studio: The museum’s temporary and permanent exhibits inspire specialized art activities for all ages. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular admission, $7-24; free for children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

Baby & Maternity

Essex La Leche League: Moms tote their little ones to a discussion of parenting and breastfeeding. Siblings welcome. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8 p.m. Free.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3, 10:4511:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Library & Books

Colchester Lego Club: Mini-makers participate in surprise challenges with colorful interlocking blocks. Ages 6-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

5 THURSDAY (CONTINUED)

Food for Thought Teen Group: Young adults polish o pizza as they discuss library projects. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Lego Thursdays: Kids combine their creativity with the library’s supplies. All ages. Haston Library, Franklin, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, 285-6505. PJ Story Hour: Sleepyheads get ready for bed, then arrive at the library for themed stories, snacks and a craft. Ages 6 and under. Fairfax Community Library, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: An attentive canine listens to little people read. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:15-4 p.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 878-6956.

Ongoing Exhibits

ECHO LEAHY CENTER FOR LAKE CHAMPLAIN, BURLINGTON

Info, 864-1848

‘XOXO: An Exhibit About Love & Forgiveness:’ Developed by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, this interactive exhibit asks participants to open their hearts and minds, through puzzles and art, in a giant conversation starter. Through May 15.

FAIRBANKS MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM, ST. JOHNSBURY

Info: 748-2372

‘X-Ray Vision: Fish Inside and Out’: This temporary exhibit from the Smithsonian Institute illustrates the history of evolution through the translucent images of ancient fish, in an elegant union of science and art. (See calendar spotlight on page 44.) Through 2017.

MONTSHIRE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, NORWICH

Info, 649-2200

‘Human Plus: Real Lives & Real Engineering’: Cutting-edge science and engineering match forces to assist the human body through low- and high-tech tools. This hands-on experience includes a neuroprosthetic limb controlled by a person’s thoughts and a touchless computer mouse, controlled through slight movements of the head. Through May 8.

‘Making Music: The Science and Art of Instrument Design’: Visitors participate in a trial-run of an exhibit exploring how instrument designs make music, and o er feedback to museum sta on temporary materials and labels. Through June 12.

SHELBURNE MUSEUM, SHELBURNE

Info, 985-3346, ext. 3395

‘32 Degrees: The Art of Winter’: Snowy season-inspired artwork graces the museum’s gallery spaces and grounds, from contemporary photography to Monet’s “Wheatstacks” to sound art and games. Through May 30.

Robotics!: The high school robotics club demos their competition piece, then kids have a handson chance to check it out. Grades 4-5. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:15-4:45 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Word Play for Kids: Professional storyteller Peter Burns spellbinds early learners with stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays and art projects to encourage emerging language skills. Ages 3-4. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: Lively tunes with local musicians 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.

Parenting

Colchester Nurturing Parent Program: Moms and dads deepen parent-child communication skills, develop empathy and determine how to empower their families. A light dinner and childcare are included. Union Memorial School, Colchester, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 498-0607.

Theater

‘The Wizard of Oz’: Dorothy, Toto and their new friends skip down the Yellow Brick Road, hoping the great wizard will grant their hearts’ desires. Ages 5 and up. Edmunds Middle School, Burlington, 4-6 p.m. Donations accepted. Info, 862-6450.

6 FRIDAY

Arts & Crafts

Family Wheel Drop-In: Families form clay sculptures with assistance from sta . All ages. BCA Print and Clay Studio, Burlington, 5:307:30 p.m. $7-8 per participant; $5 additional for each piece fired and glazed. Info, 860-7474.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Mothers’ Gathering: Moms and new babies spread out, sip tea, nurse and swap stories. Children under 2 welcome. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-5302.

Education

Early Bird Math: Young children and their caregivers put two and two together using interactive books, songs and games to delve into arithmetic concepts. Richmond Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

Fairs & Festivals

Montpelier Mayfest: The capital city swings into the spring season with weekend festivities including an Art Walk, an all-you-can-eat breakfast, an ultimate frisbee tournament, a bike swap and the farmers market opening day. See website for details. Downtown Montpelier, 4-8 p.m. Free; fees for some venues. Info, 223-9604.

Food

Foodways Fridays: Guests tour the heirloom garden, then watch as veggies make their way into historic recipes prepared in the 1890 farmhouse kitchen. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular admission $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Games

Dungeons & Dragons: Players embark on invented adventures, equipped with their problem-solving skills. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Live Action Role Play: LARPers create characters and plots for an amazing adventure of the imagination. Grades 6-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Community

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

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

Library & Books

Family Story Time: Librarian and storyteller Molly Pease leads little ones in stories, crafts, music and more. Bridgeside Books, Waterbury, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-1441.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: Musician Matthew Witten kicks o the morning with tunes and tales. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: Toe-tapping ditties captivate kiddies. Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 660-9346.

Theater

‘Cats’: The Jellicle tribe of felines sings and dances the night away. Ages 5 and up. Woodstock Town Hall Theatre, 7:30 p.m. $17-30. Info, 457-3981.

Middle School Theater Improv Group: Thespians-in-training create and dramatize scenes together, supervised by playwright Luc Reid. Grades 4-8. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3-4:15 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

‘The Wizard of Oz’: See May 5, 7-9 p.m.

7 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Family Clay: Children and their parents make memories firing and glazing special pieces. All ages. Purple Crayon/ArtisTree, South Pomfret, 10 a.m.-noon, $20 per parent-child pair; $5 per additional family member; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Kids Building Workshop: Handy helpers learn do-it-yourself skills and tool safety as they construct seasonal projects. Ages 5-12. Home Depot, Williston, 9 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister at workshops.homedepot.com. Info, 872-0039.

Origami Workshop: Paper folders let their imaginations run wild. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 472-5948.

Saturday Kids Drop-In Craft Class: Little hands create craft projects with seasonal themes, including flower vases, ice cream bowls and gifts for moms and dads. Ages 5-15. Parent must accompany. Shelburne Craft School, 10 a.m. $10 per child. Info, 985-3648.

Webby’s Art Studio: See May 5.

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Burlington Community Tree Nursery Planting: Volunteers grab their work gloves and plant saplings in grow bags for later transplanting. Music, refreshments and door prizes furnish festivity. All ages. UVM Horticulture Farm, South Burlington, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 656-5440. Green Up Day: Community members spi up the state for summer. All ages. Various locations statewide. Free. Info, greenupvermont.org.

Education

Living History Weekend: In this two-day event, fans of reenactments witness soldiers of the Northern Continental army muster together as they train and set up camp. All ages. Fort Ticonderoga, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $9-20; free for children under 5. Info, 518-585-2821.

Fairs & Festivals

Kids’ Day: A parade begins at Edmunds Elementary School at 9:30 a.m., then families enjoy a day at the waterfront with performances, food, games, activities and animals at the park. All ages. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 881-7707.

Mayfest: Folks celebrate spring with maypole dancing, face painting, pony rides, live music and delicious food. Families with children ages 6 and under. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; food for sale. Info, 985-2827.

Montpelier Mayfest: See May 6, 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Food

Burlington Farmers Market: Producers and artisans o er fresh and prepared foods, crafts and more in a bustling marketplace. All ages. Burlington City Hall Park, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 310-5172.

Capital City Farmers Market: Veggies, honey, maple syrup and more change hands at a celebration of locally grown food. All ages. Downtown Montpelier, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-2958.

Chocolate Making Workshop: Just in time for Mother’s Day, young chocolatiers try their hand at tru e creation. Fairfax Community Library, 10-11:30 a.m. $5; preregister. Info, 849-2420. Middlebury Farmers Market: Crafts, cheeses, breads, veggies and more vie for spots in shoppers’ totes. Marble Works District, Middlebury, Free. Info, 537-4754.

Orchard Valley Waldorf School Pie Breakfast: Hungry families fill their bellies with sweet and savory pastries. All ages. Trinity United Methodist Church, Montpelier, 8:30 a.m.-noon. $8; $30 per family; free for children under 5. Info, 456-7400.

Rutland Farmers Market: Local vendors peddle farm-fresh veggies and fruits, artisan cheese, handcrafted breads and more at this outdoor emporium. Downtown Rutland, 9 a.m.2 p.m. Free. Info, 342-4727.

Health & Fitness

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: Youngsters master basic yoga poses through games, songs and dance. Mindfulness activities improve focus and concentration. Ages 3-9. Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. $15. Info, 864-9642.

Onion River Sports Bike Swap: Cyclists get ready for the upcoming season by trading in their old bikes, trailers and strollers for di erent models. Those selling drop o their wheels

April 30-May 6. Onion River Sports, Montpelier, 9 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 229-9409.

Library & Books

‘Animally’ Story Time: Children’s author Lynn Parrish Sutton enchants young listeners with her new picture book exploring the animal world, from seagulls to giraffes. All ages. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 448-3350.

Cleo the Therapy Dog: Canine and reading enthusiasts visit with a friendly pooch from Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Ages 3 and up. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Graphic Novel Author Double-Header: Awardwinning graphic novelists James Kochalka and Gareth Hinds do drawing demos and answer questions. Kochalka at 11 a.m. for ages 5-9; Hinds at noon for ages 12 and up. The Flying Pig Bookstore, Shelburne, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; RSVPs welcome. Info, 985-3999.

Green Up Day Reading: Vermont children’s author John Powell reads from his new book The Pitkin Kids Learn about Recycling, then sends small ones on a scavenger hunt. Recommended for ages 3-7. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878. Martha the Talking Dog in Burlington: In celebration of Children’s Book Week, the canine star of Susan Meddaugh’s Martha series mingles with her fans. All ages. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 448-3350.

Martha the Talking Dog in Essex: In celebration of Children’s Book Week, the canine star of Susan Meddaugh’s Martha series mingles with her fans. All ages. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

‘Safe in a Storm’ Story Time: Children’s author Stephen Swinburne reads from his latest picture book about animals nestling through wind and rain. Phoenix Books Rutland, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 855-8078.

7 SATURDAY, P.42

Music

Green Mountain Youth Symphony Auditions: Young musicians of all levels try out for seats in GMYS’s orchestras. Audition required for fall semester placement. Ages 6-18. Center for Arts and Learning, Montpelier, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $25 audition fee; preregistration required. Info, 888-4470.

Nature & Science

Science Challenge: Savvy experimenters tackle tough problems with a mixture of materials and tools. Ages 3 and up with caregiver participation. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. Free with museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

Sheep Shearing & Herding: Young farmhands watch as Southdown ewes get haircuts and border collies herd sheep in the fields. Fiber demos, a children’s art show and tours of the operating dairy farm round out the day. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Tour the Cosmos: This 50-minute live presentation takes the audience on a journey deep into the universe. Ages 6 and up. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 1:30 p.m. $7-9 regular museum admission; free for children under 5. $6 per person per planetarium show. Info, 748-2372.

Theater

‘Cats’: See May 6, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

Good Clean Fun!: Family-friendly professional improv comedians invite audience participation in an evening of silliness and laughter. Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 5 p.m. By donation; food and drink available for purchase. Info, 859-0100.

‘The Wizard of Oz’: See May 5, 7-9 p.m.

8 SUNDAY: HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:151:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 10-11:30 a.m.

Community

All Souls Interfaith Kids Gathering: Creative kiddos engage in arts and crafts. Grades K-4. Caregivers must remain on-site. All Souls Interfaith Gathering, Shelburne, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 985-3819.

XOXO: Expressions of Love: Families across diverse cultures are celebrated in this Mother’s Day event. Teresa Davis, Director of the Davis Studio, assists family members in drawing “love portraits” of each other. All ages. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

Education

Living History Weekend: See May 7.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: Energy-filled kids flip, jump and tumble in a state-of-the-art facility. Ages 6 and under, 1 p.m.; ages 7-12, 2:30 p.m.; ages

On Your Mark…

According to legend, the first marathon was run in 490 BC by the Greek Pheidippides, who brought news of the Persians’ defeat to Athens. Sadly, he then collapsed and died. Lucky for us, modern-day foot races are decidedly more fun and fitness-oriented. The READY. SET. RUN! FESTIVAL, a kid-focused complement to Burlington’s Vermont City Marathon, features half-, one- and two-mile races along the scenic waterfront. Parents are welcome to lace up and join their kids in the half-miler, while the two-mile course offers the opportunity for children ages 9 to 14 to compete. And at this event, everyone’s a winner. Kids take home a gold medal, just for participating.

READY. SET. RUN! FESTIVAL: Saturday, May 28, registration opens at 7:45 a.m.; races begin at 8:25 a.m. Ages 4-14. $20-50. Info, 863-8412. runvermont.org

13 and up, 4 p.m. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Essex, 1-5:30 p.m. $8. Info, 655-3300.

Nature & Science

Early Birder Morning Walk: A.m. risers ramble through forests and meadows, led by experienced birders. Bring binoculars and good walking shoes. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 7-9 a.m. Free; preregistration appreciated; donations welcome. Info, 434-2167.

Marshfield Mother’s Day Wildflower Walk: The library pairs up with the Conservation Commission for an afternoon’s amble in search of spring ephemerals. All ages. Meet at the Stranahan Forest parking lot at the beginning of Thompson Road. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Montpelier Mother’s Day Wildflower Walk: Why settle for a bouquet? Flora fans see meadows of spring blooms — and learn the folklore behind their names — on this easy, enjoyable stroll. All ages. See spotlight on page 48. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 1-3 p.m. $510; free for members; preregister. Info, 229-6206. Science Challenge: See May 7.

Sheep Shearing & Herding: See May 7.

Sundays for Fledglings: Aspiring junior birders learn all about the work birds do through observation, research and goofing around. Ages 5-9; siblings welcome. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-3 p.m. Free with museum admission, $3.50-7; free for members and children under 3. Info, 434-2167.

Tour the Cosmos: See May 7.

Theater

‘Cats’: See May 6, 2 p.m.

9 MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Barre: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Food

Mama Mangez: Families prepare and share a meal and conversation. Tulsi Tea Room,

Montpelier, 4-6 p.m. Free; ingredient donation optional. Info, 595-7953.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: Little musicians ages 2 and under sing songs and engage in early literacy activities. Rutland Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Burlington Stories With Megan: Preschoolers have a ball with rhymes, songs and books. Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Essex Lego Challenge Club: Inventive kiddos press together plastic-piece creations. Ages 5 and up. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Music

Music & Movement for Preschoolers: Educator Emily Lanxner gets the beat going with creative storytelling, movement and rhythm. Geared toward preschoolers, but all are welcome. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 472-5948.

Music for Preschoolers: See May 5, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

Robin’s Nest Nature Playgroup: Little explorers and their caregivers discover the sights and sounds of the forest and field, while learning how the natural environment can be used as an adventurous classroom. Dress in outdoor clothing. Ages 5 and under. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free; donations welcome. Info, 229-6206.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Prenatal Method Postnatal

Rehab: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Barre: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Education

Personalized care throughout your pregnancy, labor and delivery

Individualized Gynecological

Our

for all stages of your life.

attentive staff is here for you! Childbirth

10 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Creative Tuesdays: See May 3.

Baby & Maternity

Breastfeeding Support Clinic: See May 3. Burlington La Leche League: New moms bring their babies and questions to a breastfeeding support group. Older children welcome. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 985-8228.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3. La Leche League of the Northeast Kingdom: Expectant, novice and experienced moms join breastfeeding experts for advice and support. Enter through the children’s section of the library. Siblings welcome. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 720-272-8841.

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See May 3.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Strawberry Shortcake

Showdown: Junior chefs compose this classic masterpiece with fresh berries, homemade biscuits and mounds of real whipped cream. Healthy Living Market & Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20. Info, 863-2569.

Games

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See May 3.

Library & Books

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See May 3.

Spanish Musical Kids: See May 3.

Movies

Youth Media Lab: See May 3.

Music

Preschool Music: See May 3.

Nature & Science

Discovery in the Nestlings Nook: Bird enthusiasts stretch their wings during a themed session of tales, crafts, music and outdoor exploration. Intended for preschoolers, but all ages are welcome. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Museum admission $3.50-7; free for members and children under 3. Info, 434-2167.

11 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Arts for Tots: See May 4.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

History for Homeschoolers: Eager learners launch into history-related activities organized around monthly themes. Ages 6-12. Check vermonthistory.org for specific details. Vermont History Museum, Montpelier, 1-3 p.m. $6.50-8; preregister. Space is limited. Info, 828-2291.

Homeschooling FYI: The Vermont Agency of Education hosts an informational gathering for experienced and interested homeschooling parents. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Mater Christi School Open House: Interested students and their parents see K-8 classrooms in the morning. Evening visits o er an afterschool program tour and a chance to chat with teachers. Mater Christi School, Burlington, 8:30-11 a.m. & 5-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 658-3992.

River Rock School Open House: Prospective parents meet the teachers behind this school’s K-8 program while their kids enjoy activities. River Rock School, Montpelier, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4700.

Waldorf Pre-K Through 8th Grade Observation Morning: Curious families take a tour, meet teachers and parents, and learn about this independent pre-K-8 school’s programs. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 8:30-10 a.m. Free; RSVP. Info, 985-2827 ext. 12.

Young Writers & Storytellers: Small ones spin their own yarns. Ages 5-9. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Food

Rutland Farmers Market: See May 7, 3-6 p.m.

Games

Dungeons & Dragons Night: Players don invented personas and use cleverness and luck to overcome challenges, defeat enemies and save the day. Beginners welcome. Ages 9-13. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6-7:45 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Library & Books

Lego Club: Mini-makers participate in constructive challenges with colorful interlocking blocks. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Read to a Dog: Little book lovers select stories to share with a furry friend. Ages 5-10. Fairfax Community Library, 3:15-4:15 p.m. Free; preregister for 15-minute time slot. Info, 849-2420.

Reading with Charlie the Therapy Dog: Emerging readers spend literary time with a poodle. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 3:15-4:30 p.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 482-2878.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories Bubble Magic: Wee ones experiment with blowing crazy-shaped bubbles. Ages 3-6. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Free with museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

“I tell all my friends about Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont’s Better Beginnings® program. I had a difficult delivery. But thanks to my husband, family, friends, and my health plan, I’m on the mend... and I have Johnny! Better Beginnings provided us with in home lactation support, money towards birth and fitness classes and other great resources. I also made a personal connection with Sara, my nurse from Blue Cross—whose calls guided me from the start and supported me before, during and after Johnny’s birth.” — new mom in Jeffersonville

Patrick Clifford, MD, Suzanne Scharf, NP Greta Hanson, MD, Dale LaCroix, MD, and Kimberly Blake, MD

11 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)

Parenting

Hinesburg Nurturing Parent Program: See May 4.

12 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

Clay for Tots: See May 5.

Pirates and Mermaids: See May 5.

Preschool Art Drop-In: See May 5. Webby’s Art Studio: See May 5.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3, 10:4511:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Education

History for Homeschoolers: See May 11. Waldorf High School Observation Mornings: Students and parents interested in the Waldorf philosophy tour classes, meet teachers and ask questions. Lake Champlain Waldorf High School, Shelburne, 8:30-10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 985-2827, ext. 12.

Games

Colchester Lego Club: See May 5. Jericho Lego Club: Creative construction workers put plastic pieces together. Grades K-6. Younger children must be accompanied by an adult. Jericho Town Library, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4686.

Lego Fun: Budding builders bust out the blocks. Grades K and up; kids under 5 are welcome to participate with adult supervision. Brownell

Cast Into the Past

Ichthyologists — also known as fish scientists — once used dissection as a way to understand how ancient aquatic animals evolved. Now, X-ray machines take photographs of these creatures’ insides, while preserving the skeletal structures that encase them.

“X-RAY VISION: FISH INSIDE AND OUT,” a visiting Smithsonian Institution exhibit, displays the scientific evidence of evolving life forms in 40 translucent black-and-white digital images of fossilized sea creatures. Besides showcasing the beauty of fish, these X-ray photos also reveal clues to past behavior. Undigested prey in the gut, for example, is a portrait of a fish’s final meal. Displayed in evolutionary sequence, these elegant photos offer a sweeping view of the immense arc of time.

“X-RAY VISION: FISH INSIDE AND OUT”: Open daily, May 1 through the spring of 2017, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium in St. Johnsbury. All ages. $7-9; free for children under 5. Info, 748-2372. fairbanksmuseum.org

Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Lego Thursdays: See May 5. St. Albans Library Legos: Aspiring architects engage in construction projects with their peers. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Library & Books

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See May 5. Word Play for Kids: See May 5.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See May 5.

Nature & Science

Home School Program: Aquatic Ecosystems: Young outdoor learners sink their hands and minds into water study, analyzing soil, botany and wildlife. Ages 9-12. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $20 per child; $15 each additional sibling; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

Spring Discovery: The emerging season is celebrated with a search for salamanders and tadpoles, singing with the frogs and a game of migration tag. Ages 3-5. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 adult/child pair; $4 each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

Parenting

Colchester Nurturing Parent Program: See May 5.

13 FRIDAY

Arts & Crafts

Family Wheel Drop-In: See May 6.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Mothers’ Gathering: See May 6.

Community

Kids’ Night Out: While their parents appreciate time o , youngsters enjoy dinner, a movie and games. Grades K-6. David Gale Recreation Center, Stowe, 6-10 p.m. $15 per child. Info, 253-3054.

Education

Early Bird Math: See May 6. Milton Homeschool Project Day: Out-of-classroom learners exhibit their current endeavors to an audience of parents and siblings. Grades K-12. Milton Public Library, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Food

Foodways Fridays: See May 6.

Library & Books

Brownell All-Ages Story Time: Babies, toddlers and preschoolers pass through for picture books and finger plays. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Family Story Time: See May 6.

Teen Video Party: Young adults who participated in the production of the video “Hanging with the Greats” savor a screening and ice cream social. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Movies

After-School Movie: Kids worn out from the week enjoy a PG flick and free popcorn. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Music

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See May 6.

Nature & Science

Montshire Unleashed: An Evening for Adults: The museum opens its doors after hours so grown-ups can let their inner curiosity go wild. Beer and wine available for purchase. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6-9 p.m. $14 museum admission; free for members. Info, 649-2200.

Spring Migration Bird Walk: Avian aficionados of all ages bend their birding ear to warblers, vireos, thrushes and waterfowl, with the assistance of nature center sta . All ages. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 7-8:30 a.m. $10; free for members. Info, 229-6206.

Theater

Vermont Vaudeville: Old-school entertainment combines with cutting-edge music, acrobatic stunts and comedy for a one-of-akind theater experience. All ages. See spotlight on page 50. Hardwick Town House, 8 p.m. $6-15. Info, 472-1387.

14 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Saturday Kids Drop-In Craft Class: See May 7. Webby’s Art Studio: See May 5.

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

Big Truck Day Burlington: Honk, honk! Curious kids sit in the drivers’ seats of fire, dump and tow trucks. Music, local food and ra e prizes add to the fun. Takes place in parking lot. Ages 14 and under. St. Joseph School, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $10 per family; proceeds benefit Robin’s Nest Children’s Center. Info, 864-8191.

Free Child Car Seat Safety Check-Up: Careful eyes look for correct installation, recalls and proper fit. Recommended to bring your children, and vehicle and car seat manuals. New Haven Vermont State Police, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; RSVP appreciated. Info, 388-4919.

Kids Trade & Play: Families exchange clean and gently-used clothing and toys, size newborn to 12. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $3 per family. Info, 337-8632.

Education

Fairbanks Museum Town Day: Free programming and a planetarium presentation reward residents of supporting towns. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free for residents of contributing towns. Info, 748-2372.

Fairs & Festivals

Hinesburg Big Truck Day: Vroom, vroom! Giant auto aficionados climb aboard fire trucks, dump trucks, school buses, tractors and more. Hornfree until 1 p.m. All ages. Hinesburg Community School, 9:45 a.m.-2 p.m. $5 per child; free for adults; proceeds benefit Hinesburg nursery school. Info, 557-1620.

Food

Burlington Farmers Market: See May 7.

Capital City Farmers Market: See May 7.

Middlebury Farmers Market: See May 7.

Rutland Farmers Market: See May 7.

Health & Fitness

5K Race for Mentoring: Runners of all abilities take their marks to raise money for FriendCHIPS, a school-based mentoring program serving kids grades 3-8. Founders Memorial School, Essex, 9:30 a.m. $25 registration fee. Info, 878-6982, ext. 106.

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: See May 7.

Food

Stowe Farmers Market: Live music, agricultural and craft vendors make for a bustling atmosphere. Stowe Farmers Market, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 279-3444.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See May 8.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

J.M.M.Y. Run: Athletes of all abilities lace up for a 5K, 10K, half-marathon and a one-mile run. Registration opens at 7 a.m. J.M.M.Y Center, Georgia, 8 a.m. $10-30; all proceeds benefit the Jimmy Messier Memorial Youth Center. Info, 891-6348.

Wallingford Bike Safety Day: Pedal pushers take advantage of helmet fittings and bike-safety inspections, then gear up for an obstacle course, face painting and prizes. Wallingford Elementary School, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 446-7011. Williston Runs for Education: The community comes out for a 5K run, a kids fun run and a relay in a spectator-friendly setting. 8 a.m. registration; 9:30 a.m. start. Williston Central School, $8-40; proceeds benefit school programs. Info, 238-2474.

Library & Books

James Kochalka: ‘The Glorkian Warrior and the Mustache of Destiny’: This author and illustrator of both children’s and adult graphic books enchants the audience. All ages. Phoenix Books Rutland, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 855-8078. Second Saturdays: This child-friendly afternoon, a collaboration between the Norwich Public Library and the Norwich Bookstore, celebrates reading with various themed activities. Check norwichlibrary.org for location. Norwich Bookstore, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1184.

Music

Green Mountain Youth Symphony Auditions: See May 7.

Nature & Science

Physics Phun Day: ECHO sta and the UVM Society of Physics students explore the force of energy and matter through hands-on activities and awe-inspiring demos. Ages 4 and up.

ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free with museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

Science Challenge: See May 7.

Tour the Cosmos: See May 7.

Theater

Vermont Vaudeville: See May 13, 2 & 8 p.m.

15 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:151:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 10-11:30 a.m.

Community

All Souls Interfaith Kids Gathering: Kiddos engage in musical activities while caregivers remain on-site. Grades K-4. All Souls Interfaith Gathering, Shelburne, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 985-3819.

Nature & Science

Early Birder Morning Walk: See May 8.

Science Challenge: See May 7. Sundays for Fledglings: See May 8.

Tour the Cosmos: See May 7.

16

MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Barre: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Secure Attachment and Babywearing: As part of The Birthing Year New Parent Preparation Series, new parents learn self- and baby care from professionals. Babes in arms welcome. Inquire about possible on-site childcare for elder siblings. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 595-7953.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See May 9. Burlington Stories With Megan: See May 9. Essex Lego Challenge Club: See May 9. Milton Legos at the Library: Junior builders bust out interlocking blocks. Grades K-5. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Music

Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See May 9.

Music for Preschoolers: See May 5, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

Robin’s Nest Nature Playgroup: See May 9.

17 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Creative Tuesdays: See May 3. Plattsburgh Preschool Story Hour: Aspiring art connoisseurs and their caregivers listen to a picture book, look at original works and create a project to take home. Ages 3-5. Plattsburgh State Art Museum, 10 a.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 518-564-2474.

Baby & Maternity

Breastfeeding Café: Moms nurse their babies, chat and ask for answers from a certified lactation consultant. Pregnant women, supportive dads and older siblings welcome. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 349-3825.

Breastfeeding Support Clinic: See May 3.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3.

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See May 3.

Playgroups

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.

MONDAY

Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers & Toddlers: VNA Family Room, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 862-2121.

Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: Evolution Prenatal & Family Yoga Center, second Monday of every month, 2:30-4 p.m. Free. Info, 864-9642.

Burlington Playgroup: Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 578-6471.

Charlotte Playgroup: Charlotte Central School Early Education Program, 9:30-11 a.m. Free.

Jericho Playgroup: Jericho Community Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415. South Burlington Playgroup: Leo O’Brien Civic Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 489-0410.

Swanton Monday Playgroup: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 9:45-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 868-7656.

Winooski Playtime: O’Brien Community Center, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

TUESDAY

Bradford Playgroup: Grace United Methodist Church, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

Brookfield Playgroup: First Congregational Church of Brookfield, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

Burlington Dads’ Night: VNA Family Room, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.

Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Playgroup: Maple Street Recreation Center, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

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

South Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

WEDNESDAY

Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

Essex Building Bright Futures Baby Playgroup: Move You Fitness Studio, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

Fairfield Playgroup: Bent Northrop Memorial Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 827-3945.

Hinesburg Playgroup: Hinesburg Town Hall, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-4667.

Milton Playgroup: Milton Public Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Purple Crayon Play Group: Purple Crayon/ ArtisTree, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-3500.

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.

South Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 6852264, ext. 24.

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

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. Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Playgroup: See Tuesday, 9:30-11 a.m. Hinesburg Infant Playgroup: CarpenterCarse Library, 12:30-2 p.m. Free. Info, 482-4667.

Milton Playgroup: See Wednesday. Montgomery Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Randolph Playgroup: White River Craft Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

South Burlington Playgroup: See Monday. West Fairlee Playgroup: Westshire Elementary School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

Williston Play Time: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 878-4918.

FRIDAY

Huntington Playgroup: Huntington Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Marshfield Open Gym: Old Schoolhouse Common, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

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. Rutland Playgroup: Rutland Free Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Swanton Friday Playgroup: Swanton Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3033.

Underhill Playgroup: Underhill Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Williston Babytime Playgroup: Allen Brook School, first Friday of every month, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Winooski Playtime: See Monday.

SATURDAY

Hinesburg Family Playtime: Hinesburg Community School, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-4667.

Morrisville Baby Chat: Lamoille Family Center, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

MAY CALENDAR

17 TUESDAY (CONTINUED)

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3.

Games

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See May 3. Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See May 3.

Library & Books

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: Book bu s bring a selection from home or borrow from the library to amuse an attentive canine. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:15-4 p.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 878-6956.

Spanish Musical Kids: See May 3.

Movies

Youth Media Lab: See May 3.

Music

Preschool Music: See May 3.

18 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Arts for Tots: See May 4.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See May 4.

Story Times

MONDAY

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

Bristol Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 802453-2366.

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

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

Hyde Park Story Time: Lanpher Memorial Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 888-4628.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stowe Story Time for 2- to 3-Year-Olds:

Stowe Free Library, 10 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 Public Library, 10:30 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.

Craftsbury Story Time: Craftsbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 586-9683.

East Barre Story Time: East Barre Branch Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-5118.

Fairfax Preschool Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Barre: See May 4. Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Food

Rutland Farmers Market: See May 7, 3-6 p.m.

Library & Books

STEM Club: Sciencey types challenge their imaginations with science-themed activities. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Movies

Marshfield Family-Themed Movies: A wholesome flick fascinates viewers of all ages.

Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Parenting

Breastfeeding Families Group: Nursing moms (and supportive dads, too!) gather for snacks and advice. Church of the Nazarene, Johnson, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 888-3470. Hinesburg Nurturing Parent Program: See May 4.

19 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

Clay for Tots: See May 5.

Early-literacy skills get special attention during these read-aloud sessions. Some locations provide additional activities such as music, crafts or foreign-language instruction.

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

Hinesburg Youngsters Story Time: Carpenter-Carse Library, 9:30-10 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Milton Preschool Story Time: Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Montpelier Story Time: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338. South Burlington Tiny Tot Time: South Burlington Community Library, 9:15 & 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Williston Story Time: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Winooski Pajama Time: Winooski Memorial Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 655-6424.

Woodstock Preschool Story Time: Norman Williams Public Library, 10:3011:15 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.

WEDNESDAY

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

Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday.

Hyde Park Story Time: See Monday, 10 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

Randolph Morning Story Time: Kimball Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073. Richmond Toddler Story Time: Richmond Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

South Burlington Baby Book Time: South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Stowe Story Hour: Stowe Free Library, 10:1511:15 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145.

Swanton Storytime: 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.

THURSDAY

Bristol Story Time: See Monday.

Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Monday.

Franklin Story Time: Haston Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Northfield Children’s Story Time: See Monday.

Rutland Story Time: Rutland Free Library, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Shelburne Musical Story Time: Pierson Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

St. Albans Story Hour: See Monday.

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

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

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

FRIDAY

Brandon Preschool Story Time: Brandon Free Public Library, first Friday of every month, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 247-8230.

Craftsbury Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

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

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

Huntington Story Time: Huntington Public Library, 10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 434-4583.

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

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

Montpelier Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

South Burlington Story Time Adventures: South Burlington Community Library, May 6, 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.

SATURDAY

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

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. Info, 264-5660.

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

Franklin Walk-in Story Hour: Haston Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Hardwick Preschool Story Hour: Jeudevine Memorial Library, first Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 472-5849.

Milton Drop-In Saturday Storytime: Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Swanton Storytime: See Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.

Crafternoon: Art lovers make inventive masterpieces. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Pirates and Mermaids: See May 5.

Preschool Art Drop-In: See May 5.

Webby’s Art Studio: See May 5.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:301:30 p.m.

Montpelier La Leche League: Breastfeeding moms meet new friends as they discuss the joys and trials of nursing. Lending library available. Babies and toddlers welcome. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-3000.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Library & Books

Colchester Lego Club: See May 5. Lego Thursdays: See May 5.

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See May 5. Word Play for Kids: See May 5.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See May 5.

Nature & Science

Tree Evening Story Hour: St. Albans City tree warden Curtis Comfort commemorates Arbor Day with local lore. Little ones head home with their own seedlings. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Parenting

Colchester Nurturing Parent Program: See May 5.

20 FRIDAY

Arts & Crafts

Family Wheel Drop-In: See May 6.

Baby & Maternity

Central Vermont Nursing Beyond a Year: Mothers discuss the benefits and challenges of breastfeeding, including nighttime parenting, weaning, healthy eating habits and setting limits, in a supportive setting. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 879-3000.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Mothers’ Gathering: See May 6.

Community

Children’s Room Tag Sale: Bargain hunters pay low prices for clothing, toys, furniture, books and more. All ages. Donations accepted at Thatcher Brook Elementary School from May 9-13; at Wesley Methodist Church from May 9-19. Wesley United Methodist Church, Waterbury, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Donations appreciated; proceeds benefit quality early education community programming. Info, 244-5605.

Education

Early Bird Math: See May 6.

Food

Foodways Fridays: See May 6.

Hardwick Farmers Market: Local veggies, cheese, plants, syrup and more fill shoppers’ market baskets. Diverse dinner delectables available. Atkins Field, Hardwick, 3-6 p.m. Free.

Games

Family Games: Parents and kids of all ages engage in some friendly competition. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Library & Books

Family Story Time: See May 6.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: See May 6.

Music

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See May 6.

21 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Saturday Kids Drop-In Craft Class: See May 7. Toy Hacking: Inquisitive kids examine the insides of play things, taking them apart and putting them back together. Ages 9-14. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

Webby’s Art Studio: See May 5.

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

Children’s Room Tag Sale: See May 20, 9 a.m.-noon.

Dance

‘Cinderella & Dance Concert’: Ballet Wolcott enchants the audience with this classic tale of a princess’s transformation. All ages. Dibden Center for the Arts, Johnson State College, 7 p.m. $10-20; free for children under 5. Info, 249-9278.

Family Contradance: Movers and groovers swing to music by the Woodbury Strings Band Lab with various callers. All ages. The Schoolhouse Learning Center, South Burlington, 3-5 p.m. $8 suggested donation; $15 per family; free for children under 12. Info, 223-8945.

Food

Burlington Farmers Market: See May 7.

Capital City Farmers Market: See May 7. Champlain Island Farmers Market: Farms, specialty food businesses and artisans sell their high-quality wares. St. Joseph Church, Grand Isle, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 617-652-2304.

Middlebury Farmers Market: See May 7.

Rutland Farmers Market: See May 7.

Health & Fitness

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: See May 7.

Library & Books

Cleo the Therapy Dog: See May 7. Learn To Tune Up Your Bike: Young cyclists ready their wheels and gears for summer riding. All ages. Jeudevine Memorial Library, Hardwick, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 472-5948.

STUDY

Kids ages 8-12 and their parents are invited to participate in a 2-part research study at the UVM Family Development Lab about how parents and kids interact with each other and with other people.

PART 1 PART 2

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

In Bloom

Have you ever seen a Dutchman’s breeches? You’ll encounter that flower, named for its unique tiny-trouser shape, and others on a guided MOTHER’S DAY WILDFLOWER WALK at North Branch Nature Center. Naturalists of all ages can soak up the stories behind red-and-white trilliums, golden trout lilies and strikingly striped jack-in-the-pulpits while ambling through meadow and woods. Come with questions or simply savor an afternoon of exploring during this sweet celebration of moms.

MOTHER’S DAY WILDFLOWER WALK: Sunday, May 8, 1-3 p.m., at the North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier. All ages. $5-10. Info, 229-6206. northbranchnaturecenter.org

21 SATURDAY (CONTINUED)

Perennial Swap & Book Sale: Pots of plants and plenty of books exchange owners. Highgate Town Park, 10 a.m.-noon. Donations accepted; proceeds benefit the Highgate Public Library. Info, 868-3970.

Music

Green Mountain Youth Symphony Auditions: See May 7.

The Swing Peepers: This goofy Vermont duo gets the crowd clapping with silly songs and music. Bring a blanket or chair for seating. Ages 3 and up. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, N.H., 11 a.m. Free. Info, 603-646-2422.

Nature & Science

Science Challenge: See May 7.

Spring Bird Walk: Botanist Bob Popp leads spring songbird admirers on an insightful stroll. All ages. Meet at the Stranahan Forest parking lot at the beginning of Thompson Road. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 7:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Tour the Cosmos: See May 7.

Water Critter Curiosities: Nature lovers explore a pond and look for its inhabitants and their amazing adaptations. Shelburne Farms, 9:30-11:30 a.m. & 12:30-2:30 p.m. $10-12 per adult/child pair; $5-6 each additional child; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

22 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:151:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 10-11:30 a.m.

Community

All Souls Interfaith Kids Gathering: See May 8, 5-6 p.m.

Dance

‘Cinderella & Dance Concert’: See May 21, 2 p.m.

Food

Stowe Farmers Market: See May 15.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See May 8.

Movies

‘The Kid’ With Charlie Chaplin: Film bu s watch the silent Tramp’s first feature. Ages 5 and up. Visual Arts Center, Hanover, N.H., 4 p.m. $5-8. Info, 603-646-3991.

Nature & Science

Early Birder Morning Walk: See May 8. Science Challenge: See May 7. Sundays for Fledglings: See May 8.

Tour the Cosmos: See May 7.

23 MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See May 4.

Baby & Maternity

Breastfeeding Support Clinic: See May 3.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3.

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See May 3.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3.

Games

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See May 3.

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See May 3.

Library & Books

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See May 17. Spanish Musical Kids: See May 3.

Movies

Youth Media Lab: See May 3.

Music

Preschool Music: See May 3.

25 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Arts for Tots: See May 4.

Baby & Maternity

Champlain Valley Nursing

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Barre: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Cheesy Chicken

Enchiladas: Young chefs create a savory Southof-the-border meal from scratch, then take it home to share. Healthy Living Market & Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20. Info, 863-2569.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See May 9.

Burlington Stories With Megan: See May 9. Essex Lego Challenge Club: See May 9. STEM Club: See May 18.

Music

Music & Movement for Preschoolers: See May 9.

Music for Preschoolers: See May 5, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

Robin’s Nest Nature Playgroup: See May 9. World Turtle Day: On this international day, these amazing animals are celebrated locally through special exhibits, crafts and activities. All ages. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

24 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Creative Tuesdays: See May 3.

Beyond a Year: Moms and their nurslings discuss the charms and challenges of breastfeeding in a non-judgmental atmosphere. Topics include nighttime parenting, weaning, healthy eating habits and setting limits. Aikido of Champlain Valley, Burlington, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-3000.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See May 4. Prenatal Method Prenatal Barre: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Education

Young Writers & Storytellers: See May 11.

Food Champlain Island Farmers Market: Farms, specialty food businesses and artisans sell their high-quality wares. St. Rose of Lima Parish, South Hero, 3-6 p.m. Free. Info, 617-652-2304. Rutland Farmers Market: See May 7, 3-6 p.m.

Games

Dungeons & Dragons Night: See May 11.

Library & Books

Pajama Story Time: Small ones cozy up for bedtime tales, cookies and milk. Ages 18 months-5 years. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660. Read to a Dog: See May 11.

Parenting

Hinesburg Nurturing Parent Program: See May 4.

COURTESY OF FAIRBANKS MUSEUM

COURTESY OF NORTH BRANCH NATURE CENTER

26 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

Clay for Tots: See May 5. Pirates and Mermaids: See May 5. Webby’s Art Studio: See May 5.

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3, 10:4511:55 a.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:301:30 p.m.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Games

Colchester Lego Club: See May 5.

Jericho Lego Club: See May 12, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Lego Thursdays: See May 5.

St. Albans Library Legos: See May 12, 3-5 p.m.

Library & Books

Read to Archie the Therapy Dog: See May 5.

Word Play for Kids: See May 5.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See May 5.

Nature & Science

Home School Program: Wetlands & Watersheds: Avid learners spend an outdoors day exploring aquatic animals’ life cycles and adaptions in ponds and brooks. Ages 6-8. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $20 per child; $15 each additional sibling; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

Parenting

Colchester Nurturing Parent Program: See May 5.

27 FRIDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Mothers’ Gathering: See May 6.

Education

Early Bird Math: See May 6.

Fairbanks Homeschool Days: Students expand their scholastic horizons in the museum’s galleries and other venues with a variety of programs. Call for specific topics and location. Grades K-8. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $8-10, includes museum admission; $5 for planetarium; one free adult per paying child. Info, 748-2372.

Food

Foodways Fridays: See May 6.

Hardwick Farmers Market: See May 20.

Richmond Farmers Market: Vendors peddle hand-held pies, honey ice cream, homemade pickles, just-picked produce and much more at this lively showcase of locavorism. All ages. Volunteers Green, Richmond, 3-6:30 p.m. Free.

Games

Dungeons & Dragons: See May 6.

Library & Books

Family Story Time: See May 6.

Movies

Friday After-School Movie: Kids and caregivers snuggle in for snacks and a screening. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Music

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See May 6.

28 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Saturday Kids Drop-In Craft Class: See May 7.

Webby’s Art Studio: See May 5.

Baby & Maternity

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Community

Memorial Day Parade: Dressed in their favorite sports outfits, young library lovers walk in the town parade. All ages, but 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Dance

‘Celebration of Dance’: Vermont Ballet Theater School performs selections from Romeo and Juliet and Sleeping Beauty, plus Broadway, contemporary and lyrical jazz numbers, with special guest artist Samuel Wilson from The

Just for Laughs

Hardwick-based VERMONT VAUDEVILLE is a homegrown theater troupe with a clear mission: to make folks laugh. Founded in 2009 by four performers whose talents range from mime to music, this eclectic ensemble mixes comic skits, a live band, amazing acrobatics, juggling and political commentary. The cast reels in the audience through participatory magic tricks and sing-alongs, while the company’s gorilla character keeps the crowd cheering between acts. Each performance season features different preshow dinner fare. This year, Lyndonville’s Vermont Foodie Stand parks its customized food truck outside the venue and offers up a locally sourced menu. Come with an appetite — for good eats and a great time.

VERMONT VAUDEVILLE: Friday, May 13, 8 p.m., and Saturday, May 14, 2 & 8 p.m., at the Hardwick Town House. All ages. Saturday matinée is specifically for children. $6-15. Info, 472-1387. vermontvaudeville.com. Plan ahead for their July 30 show at 8 p.m. at Burlington’s City Hall Auditorium.

Washington Ballet. All ages. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 1 & 6:30 p.m. $17-25. Info, 863-5966.

Fairs & Festivals

Cheese & Dairy Celebration: Got milk? Families sample artisan cheeses, make “moo masks” and hand-churn ice cream. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

See Dr. First videos “First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org.

Food

Burlington Farmers Market: See May 7. Capital City Farmers Market: See May 7. Champlain Island Farmers Market: See May 21.

Middlebury Farmers Market: See May 7. Rutland Farmers Market: See May 7.

Health & Fitness

Central Girls on the Run VT Run/Walk: In a celebratory completion of the Girls on the Run program, enthusiastic athletes and community members lace up for a non-competitive 5K. Registration, face painting and hair styling begins at 8:30 a.m. All ages. Vermont State Fairgrounds, Rutland, 10 a.m. $10-25. Info, 246-1476.

EvoKids Saturday Yoga: See May 7. Ready. Set. Run! Festival: Young racers navigate .5-, 1- and 2-mile courses the day before the Vermont City Marathon. Ages 4-14. See spotlight on page 42. Race packet pick-up opens at 7:45 a.m. Burlington’s Waterfront Park, 8:25 a.m. $20 per child before May 8; $15 each additional sibling; $35 per child after May 8, or until sold out. Info, 863-8412.

Movies

‘The Jungle Book’: Wild dangers come to life on the screen in this live-action remake of the Disney classic. Visual Arts Center, Hanover, N.H., 4 & 7 p.m. $5-8. Info, 603-646-2422.

Nature & Science

Bird-Monitoring Walk: Eagle-eyed participants bring binoculars to search the museum’s property for fluttering feathers. Best for adults and older children. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 7:30-9 a.m. Free; donations welcome; preregister. Info, 434-2167.

BirdFEST: This avian celebration includes nature walks, live raptor demos, art displays, birdhouse building and more. All ages. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 7 a.m.-1 p.m. $10-15; free for kids. Info, 229-6206.

Maple Sugarbush Bird Walk: Eagle-eyed participants scope out songbirds in the sugarbush. All ages. Jed’s Maple Products, Derby, 7:30-9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 766-2700.

Science Challenge: See May 7.

Tour the Cosmos: See May 7.

29 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:151:30 p.m.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 10-11:30 a.m.

Fairs & Festivals

Cheese & Dairy Celebration: See May 28.

Food

Stowe Farmers Market: See May 15.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See May 8.

Nature & Science

Early Birder Morning Walk: See May 8.

Science Challenge: See May 7. Sundays for Fledglings: See May 8. Tour the Cosmos: See May 7.

30 MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 5:45-7 p.m.

Prenatal Method Postnatal Rehab: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Barre: See May 4.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Community

Memorial Day at Fort Ticonderoga: On the grounds where so many American soldiers fought and sacrificed, armed servicemen and -women are honored with a Fife and Drum Corps presentation and a glimpse into the life of soldiers in the year 1776. See spotlight on page 38. Fort Ticonderoga, N.Y., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $9-22; free for children under 5. Info, 518-585-2821.

Nature & Science

Robin’s Nest Nature Playgroup: See May 9.

31 TUESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Breastfeeding Support Clinic: See May 3.

Evolution Postnatal Yoga: See May 3.

Evolution Prenatal Yoga: See May 3. Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See May 3.

Prenatal Method Prenatal Yoga: See May 3.

Games

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See May 3.

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Gaming Tuesdays: See May 3.

Library & Books

Lego Free Build: Kids unleash their imaginations with plastic blocks. Parents welcome. Grades K-5. Waterbury Public Library, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Read to Daisy the Therapy Dog: See May 17. Spanish Musical Kids: See May 3.

Teddy Bear Picnic: Little ones and their stu ed friends sit down for a “beary” good story hour and sweet snacks. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Movies

Youth Media Lab: See May 3.

Music

Preschool Music: See May 3.

HANDS ON

Writing Contest

Sponsored by Name Age Town Email Phone

Calling all poets!

Moms enjoy their turn in the sun as families celebrate Mother’s Day on May 8. What’s special about your mom? Use the space below to write a poem, in any style, celebrating your mother and her unique qualities. Copy it down before you send it to us, and you’ll have a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift!

We’ll pick two winners and publish their names and poems in the next issue. Winners receive a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop. Deadline to enter is May 15.

Send your entries to: Kids VT, attn: Writing Contest, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

New Books, Used Books, Remainders at GREAT PRICES!

VW Bus Cupola

SAY YOU’RE BUILDING a barn. From the roof, there’s a great view. Then say you know someone selling a busted 1980 Volkswagen Vanagon. And a guy with a crane.

These things may seem disparate, but not if you’re Dave Shinnlinger. He’d owned several Vanagons in high school and dreamed of integrating one into a building. So when his barn needed a cupola, hoisting one of the boxy buses up there was “an obvious conclusion.”

The idea took shape in 2005, when the veteran high school woodshop teacher was building a barn for machines and tinkering projects next

Kids:

to his Canaan, N.H. home. At the end of a hard day’s work, Shinnlinger and a friend were on the roof, admiring the fields and nearby towns of Grafton and Enfield, when his friend suggested a cupola, reminding Shinnlinger of his old idea. Then his friend mentioned that someone he knew was selling a Vanagon — and Shinnlinger thought of the guy with the crane.

After shelling out $100 for the van, Shinnlinger started what he calls “backyard engineering” to construct a rooftop support for it. He built

a cradle-like wooden framework into a hole in the roof’s frame. And with metal seismic straps, typically used to secure houses to foundations in areas prone to earthquakes, he attached the van to the cradle and secured its doors.

Before hoisting the VW onto the roof, he removed its engine, transaxle and gas tank to lighten the load. It took just 15 minutes to lift it into place — with Dave, his family and a few friends looking on.

Inside, the bus feels like it could be on solid ground. All of its classic VW camping components are intact including a table for coffee cups or card games, and a foldout bed, on which many people have spent the night. It’s when you look out the windshield and see a roof, and the expansive view beyond,

that you fully realize Shinnlinger’s lofty goal.

“It’s pretty awesome,” says 13-yearold Ella, who occasionally uses the van as a hangout spot.

“I get asked the question ,‘Why did you build it?’ a lot,” Shinnlinger says. “But for me, it’s more a question of, ‘Why not?’” K

Fast Facts

For Halloween, the Shinnlingers decorate the van with twinkling lights and turn on its headlights.

To access the cupola, visitors climb a sturdy ladder that runs from the second floor of the barn to a hole that Dave cut in the bottom of the vehicle.

• Between the two front seats, the couch/foldout bed and the bicycle seat screwed into the floor behind the driver’s seat, the van can accomodate four or five people.

• Several family friends have enjoyed camping out in the cupola while visiting the Shinnlingers, and the girls like to hang out there with their friends.

• The van’s pop-top still works, as do many of the vehicle’s manual buttons and levers.

• The steering column is connected, so turning the steering wheel moves the wheels.

• If you are considering a similar project, Shinnlinger suggests checking with your insurance company. The family was dropped from their homeowner’s insurance because of the perceived safety risk, but they were able to find a better deal.

“Habitat” celebrates places where Vermont families live and play. Got a sweet space you’d like us to see? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

PHOTOS BY TOM MCNEILL

Dave and daughter Ella

Parents: Dave and Deb Shinnlinger

Daughters Ella, 13, and Opal, 12

COLORING CONTEST!

Three winners will each receive a prize. Send Kids VT your work of art by May 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 June issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com, or mail a copy to Kids VT, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

PUZZLE PAGE

Jumble

BY DAVID L. HOYT & JEFF KNUREK

The letters of these crazy words are all mixed up. To play the game, put them back into the right order so that they make real words you can find in your dictionary. Write the letters of each real word under each crazy word, but only one letter to a square.

These winners get gift certificates to:

ABRAHAM lives in Burlington and turns 6 on May 20. He’s a happy and extroverted boy who likes dancing, playing baseball, and drawing dragons and dinosaurs. He has an excellent memory for retelling stories.

Abraham wins a 30-day family pool membership.

You are now ready to solve this month’s Jumble For Kids. Study the picture for a hint. Then play around with the letters in the circles. You’ll find you can put them in order so that they make your funny answer.

Maze

To

submit

using

online form at kidsvt.com/birthday-club.

Print

Puzzles4Kids

Riddle Search — Vacation Resort

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 job did the rabbit take at the vacation resort?

BAY BEACH CAMP

DESSERT DOCK

EXCUSTION FOOD GOLF GYM KAYAK LAKE

BY HELENA HOVANEC

SHALEY lives in Milton and turns 3 on May 9. She’s energetic, outgoing and caring. She enjoys reading, being outdoors, swimming, fishing, hunting and playing mommy to her dolls.

lives in South Burlington and turns 4 on May 16. She loves to sing, travel, dance and draw. She’s a caring big sister to younger sibling, Ellie, and adores her cousins and friends.

LOBBY LOUNGE SAIL SPA SURFING SWIM TENNIS TOUR TRAIL

WATERSLIDE WHIRLPOOL

Riddle Answer:

SOPHIA lives in Essex and turns 10 on May 25. She’s in fourth grade at Founders Memorial School, where she sings in the chorus. She loves art, basketball, rollerblading, Minecraft and her cat, Pouncer.

give

contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled.

Shaley, Evie and Sophia each win family day passes to the pool.

Meet the Diblings

How two moms and their kids discovered an extensive extended family

THE MOST UNUSUAL thing about our family is not that our sons have two mommies. Here in Vermont, that rarely raises eyebrows nowadays. No, here’s the part people have trouble bending their minds around: Our sons are part of a connected tribe of 40 half-siblings, scattered all across the country, all conceived with sperm from the same anonymous donor.

When my wife and I were planning our family, we picked an open-ID donor — one who agrees that his identity can be disclosed to offspring at age 18. We didn’t have any intention of seeking contact with him ourselves, but we thought our children should have the option if they wanted.

When our firstborn was about 18 months old, we called our sperm bank to start trying for another baby. But we learned that twins born with our donor’s sperm had been reported to have a genetic condition. That meant we’d have to talk to the bank’s genetic counselor and sign some informed consent waivers before we could place our order.

Unfortunately, the counselor had just embarked on a two-week vacation.

There we were, reeling, having just learned that (a) somewhere out there, our son had twin half-siblings, (b) something was “wrong” with them genetically, and (c) no one could tell us any details — for two weeks. Patience is not one of my virtues, so I went online and discovered that our sperm bank offered private forums to connect with other families with offspring by the same donor. An exploratory message quickly led to an invitation to a closed Facebook group of two dozen other mamas, all raising kids by a man none of us have ever met.

Initially, it was disorienting to discover that not only did these other families exist, but that there were so many of them. In 2012, there were 20 families; that number has since swelled to 27. Our 40 children — we call them “diblings,” or donor siblings — range in age from 6 months to 7 years. There are 28 boys and 12 girls, all being raised in families headed by two women or by single mothers by choice.

Those first few weeks after making contact were mind-boggling. We spent hours poring over pictures of the other kids, marveling over the strong resemblance these children shared with our son. We exchanged a flurry of getting-to-know-you messages, discovering other similarities: how these kids love music and all have the same eyebrows, pointy elf ears and concave toenails; how most of them were early talkers and late walkers; how they all hate eggs. Everybody was so welcoming. And the “genetic problem” that had us so worried was reassuringly explained by the twins’ mother — her sons were born premature, had pyloric

stenosis, resolved through surgery, and were recovering just fine. When I got pregnant with our second son, I was in good company; two other mamas were pregnant at the same time.

Over time, our connection has expanded beyond Facebook. Our families exchange holiday cards, birth announcements and hand-me-downs. The kids write each other letters and share pictures and videos on the Facebook group. We have a meet-up every summer. The location changes to make it easier for our far-flung group to reunite, though not everyone can make it every year. This June, we’re looking forward to spending a week on Long Island with nine other families. We’ve rented a big house with a pool and a play structure. Our 3-year-old keeps asking when it will be “the hot times” (summer) so we can go see the diblings. As the kids get older and their contact becomes less parent-directed, I look forward to watching them develop and nurture their own relationships.

In hindsight, though we hadn’t planned to contact donor families, I’m grateful for our connection. Now our sons know from their earliest memories that they have a donor dad and donor siblings, and there’s no drama surrounding “When should we tell them?” or “How should we tell them?” They don’t have to feel alone or isolated because their family doesn’t look like their school friends’ — they know 38 other kids out there who also have two moms or just one mom and no dad.

Yet for me, the best and most surprising blessing is not the diblings, but their mamas. Before stumbling into this community, I could not have imagined how much these women would come to mean to me. These special ladies are my first resource for parenting advice or commiseration when the “threenager” is getting on my last nerve.

And our sisterhood goes well beyond our common parenting struggle. We support each other through job loss and divorce, health scares and work frustrations. We celebrate each other’s pregnancies, promotions, home purchases and other triumphs. We offer each other a safe place to share secrets and vent feelings.

I don’t know if our kids will want contact with the donor when they come of age. I can only imagine that his reaction to the discovery that he’s spawned this tribe of diblings will likely both mirror and completely dwarf my own shock at how numerous we are. If and when the time comes, I’m confident our group will open our hearts to welcome him into this wild and wonderful extended family with love and gratitude, because he’s the one who made it all possible. K

Initially, it was disorienting to discover that not only did these other families exist, but that there were so many of them.

THANK YOU EMPLOYERS, for making Vermont breastfeeding-friendly.

ADDISON COUNTY

Addison County Fair & Field Days

Addison County Home Health & Hospice

Addison County Parent Child Center

Community College of Vermont

Co-operative Insurance Companies, Inc.

Counseling Service of Addison County

CPC of Vermont, Inc.

Down Home Deli/Market

EastView at Middlebury

Family Services Middlebury District Office

Holden Financial Services

Law Office of Cindy Hill

Mary Hogan Elementary School

Mary Johnson Children’s Center

Middlebury College

Mount Abraham Union High School

Porter Medical Center

Rainbow Pediatrics

Ripton Elementary School

Tapestry Midwifery

Vergennes Union High School

VT Dept of Health - Middlebury District

Women Safe, Inc.

BENNINGTON COUNTY

Arlington Area Childcare

Happy Days Play School

Community College of Vermont

Kids ‘N Kin Childcare Center

Manchester Community Library

Mount Anthony Union Middle School

Northshire Day School

South Western Vermont Medical Center

The Vermont Country Store

VT Dept of Health - Bennington District

CALEDONIA COUNTY

Barnet Elementary School

Buffalo Mountain Coop

Burke Town School

Caledonia Home Health Care & Hospice

Community College of Vermont

David Toll, MD

Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium

Farm Country Insurancey

Hardwick Chiropractic

Kingdom Montessori School

Lyndon Furniture

Lyndon Institute

Lyndon State College

Lyndon Town School

McDonalds

Miller’s Run School

Mobile Medical International Corporation

Morrison’s Feed Bag

NECKA Parent Child Center

New Beginnings Child Care Center

Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital

Riverside Life Enrichment Center

Riverside School

Ryegate Small Animal Clinic

St. Johnsbury Academy

St. Johnsbury Health & Rehab

St. Johnsbury Pediatrics

The White Market

Town of Hardwick

Umbrella, Inc.

VT Dept of Health - St. Johnsbury District

Vermont Community Action Head Start

CHITTENDEN COUNTY

American International Distribution

Corporation

Brewster Pierce Memorial School

Browns River Middle School

Burlington Primary Care

Burton Snowboards

Century 21 The Martin Agency

Champlain Vocational Services

Charlotte Central School

Choice Strategies, Division of WageWorks

Community College of Vermont

Discover Chiropractic & Wellness Center

Evergreen Family Health

Essex Middle School

Founders School

Gallagher, Flynn & Co.

Greater Burlington YMCA

Hagan, Rhinehardt & Connolly Pediatricians

Hampton Direct, Inc.

Howard Center

IBM

Kelliher Samets Volk

Let’s Grow Kids

Lund Family Center

Matrix Health Systems

Milton Family Community Center

Mirabelle’s

Mount Mansfield Union High School

National Gardening Association

North American PlayCare, The PlayCare Center

Open Tempo

Orbit Hair Design Outdoor Gear Exchange

Pediatric Medicine

Physician’s Computer Company

Planned Parenthood of Northern New England

Richmond Elementary School

Shelburne Community School

Sweet Clover Market

Tetra Tech ARD

Toys R Us

Trudell Consulting Engineers

University of Vermont

UVM Medical Center - Given Health Care

UVM Medical Center - Women’s Health Care

U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services

Vermont Energy Investment Corporation

Vermont Public Radio

Visiting Nurse Association

VT Dept of Health - Burlington District

VT Dept of Health - Community Public Health

Vermont CARES

ESSEX COUNTY

Brighton Elementary School

FRANKLIN COUNTY

Abbey Group, The A. N. Deringer, Inc.

Ballet School of Vermont, The

Barry Callebaut

Bellows Free Academy Fairfax

Bellows Free Academy St. Albans

Choice Physical Therapy

City of St. Albans

Collins Perley Sports & Fitness Center

Community College of Vermont

Dickinson & Branon Dental Care

Duke’s Fitness Center

Fairfax Community Library

Fairfield Center School

Fletcher Elementary School

Franklin Central Supervisory Union

Franklin County Caring Communities

Franklin County Home Health Agency

Georgia Elementary & Middle School

Georgia Public Library

Maple City Candy

Mapleleaf Montessori

Messenger Print & Design

Northwestern Medical Center

Peoples Trust Company of Vermont

Sheldon Elementary School

S. R. Smith Real Estate

St. Albans City School

St. Albans Free Library

St. Albans Messenger

St. Albans Town

St. Albans Town Educational Center

Superior Technical Ceramics

Train Station

Village Hair Company

VT Dept of Health - St. Albans District

GRAND ISLE COUNTY

Folsom Education & Community Center

LAMOILLE COUNTY

Appleseed Pediatrics

Behavioral Health & Wellness Center

Community College of Vermont

Community Dental Clinic

Copley Health Systems

Dunkin Donuts

Lamoille Family Center

Napa Auto Parts

Morrisville Family Health Center

Neurology Clinic

Smugglers’ Notch Resort

Stowe Family Practice

VT Dept of Health - Morrisville District

ORANGE COUNTY

Center for Northern Woodlands Education

Clara Martin Center

Creative Spirit Children’s Center

Flanders Market

Mascoma Savings Bank

Orange County Parent Child Center

ORLEANS COUNTY

Community College of Vermont

Coventry Village School

Glen Robinson, PC

Dr. Dennis LeBlanc

Jay/Westfield Elementary School

Lake Region Union High School

North Country Hospital

North Country Union High School

North Country Union Jr. High School

Children’s Integrated Services

NEKCA Head Start / Early Head Start

North Country Pediatrics

Orleans Elementary School

State of Vermont - Newport District

Wright’s Enterprises

RUTLAND COUNTY

Assistive Intelligence, Inc.

Community College of Vermont

Casella Waste Management

Castleton State College - Admissions Office

CHCRR Pediatrics

Laughing Child Farm

Midas Automotive Systems Experts

Pawlet Public Library

Promise Lactation Consulting

Questech Metals

Rutland City Public Schools

Rutland Mental Health Services

Rutland Town School

Rutland Regional Medical Center

Sal’s Italian Restaurant

Stone Valley Community Market

Tattersall’s Clothing & Accessories

Tree Song Doula

VT Dept of Health - Rutland District

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Aartistic, Inc.

Aldrich Public Library

Berlin Health & Rehabilitation Center

Berlin Veterinary Clinic

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Vermont

Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice

Central Vermont Medical Center

Community College of Vermont

Dunkin Donuts

Family Center of Washington County

Good Beginnings of Central Vermont

Heather’s Nearly New

Hunger Mountain Cooperative, Inc.

National Life Group

Office of the Governor

Onion River Animal Hospital

Positive Pie

Red Hen Baking Company

Savoy Theatre

Sugarbush Resort

SunCommon

TDS Telecom

The Children’s Space

The Summit: Center for State Employee

Development

The Vermont Commission on Women

Union Elementary School

Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Vermont Community Loan Fund

VT Dept of Health - Barre District

VT Dept of Social & Rehabilitative Services

Vermont League of Cities & Towns

Vermont Mutual Insurance Company

VSECU

Women & Children First

Zutano, Inc.

WINDHAM COUNTY

AIDS Project of Southern VT

Amy’s Bakery Arts Café

Brattleboro Centre for Children

Brattleboro Food Coop

Brattleboro Hearing Center

Brattleboro Memorial Hospital

Brattleboro Savings & Loan

Brattleboro Town School District

Brattleboro Union High School #6 District

Chroma Technology Corp

Community College of Vermont

Dummerston Town School District

Early Education Services

Everyone’s Books

Family Garden, The

Flatter Me Hair Salon

G.S. Precision, Inc.

Grace Cottage Hospital

Guilford Town School District

Hermitage Inn

Holton Home

Hilltop House

Just So Pediatrics

Kids in the Country Childcare & Preschool

Marlboro College

Mount Snow Ski Resort

Mulberry Bush Early Learning Center

Natural Patches of Vermont, Inc.

Neighboorhood Schoolhouse

New England Center for Circus Arts

Omega Optical

Park Place Financial Advisors

Pine Heights

Putney Town School District

River Valley Credit Union

Side Hill Farm

SkiHome Realty

Sojourns Community Health Clinic

State of Vermont - Brattleboro State Office Bldg

Timson Hill Preschool

Thompson House

Town of Putney

Twombly Wealth Management

Vermont Country Deli

Vernon Elementary School

Vernon Town School District

VT Dept of Health - Brattleboro District

West Bee Nursery School

Winston Prouty Center for Child Development

World Learning, Inc.

Windham Child Care Association

WINDSOR COUNTY

Cedar Hill Continuing Care Community

Community College of Vermont

Corporate Lactation Services

Dept for Children & Families - Family Services

Economic Services

Family Place, The FOGGS Hardware

Gill Odd Fellow Home

Green Mountain Children’s Center

Hartford Memorial Middle School

Hartford High School

Health Care & Rehabilitation Services of SE VT

Historic Homes of Runnemede

Lincoln Street, Inc.

King Arthur Flour

Mascoma Savings Bank

Office of Child Support - SE Region

Okemo Mountain Resort

Ottaquechee Health Center

Ottaquechee School

Rutland Windsor Supervisory Union

SEVCA Head Start

Sidewalk Florist

Springfield Area Parent Child Center

Springfield Family Center

Springfield Health & Rehabilitation Center

Springfield Hospital

Springfield Probation & Parole

Springfield School District

Tami’s Head Lines

Two Rivers Supervisory Union

Upper Valley Haven, Inc.

Veremedy Pet Hospital

VocRehab Vermont

VT Dept of Health - Springfield District

VT Dept of Health - White River Jct District

Vermont Vocational/Rehabilitation

White River Family Practice

Windsor Early Childhood Education Center

Windsor Southeast Supervisory Union

World of Discovery, Inc.