Kids VT, July 2015

Fort Ethan

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

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

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

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

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

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Copy Editor Paula Routly

Proofreaders Marisa Keller

Kathryn Wysockey-Johnson

Production Manager John James

Creative Director Don Eggert

Designers Aaron Shrewsbury Rev. Diane Sullivan

Circulation Manager Matt Weiner

Business Manager Cheryl Brownell

Contributing Writers: Darcie Abbene, Sarah Galbraith, Grace Per Lee, Mary Ann Lickteig, Ken Picard, Erinn Simon, Katie Titterton, Sarah Yahm

Illustrator: Mo Oh

Photographers: Matt Thorsen, Sam Simon

How will you find adventure this summer?

Crazy for Creatures

recenTly, my 5-year-old son, Theo, ran to the front of our house from the backyard with a huge grin on his face, his hands gently cupping something in front of him.

“It’s Mr. Toady,” he announced, spreading his palms to reveal a brown, bumpy and not particularly attractive creature. “He’s my best friend.”

My family doesn’t have any pets, but that hasn’t stopped Theo and his 8-year-old sister, Mira, from interacting with creatures of all kinds. They scoop up wriggly worms on our driveway after rainstorms, hunt for frogs in ponds, follow around our neighbor’s moody cat and ask to pet cute dogs around town. (Theo briefly considered taking Mr. Toady to school, but changed his mind and deposited him back in the yard.)

Nothing captivates kids quite like animals. They’re fun to watch and, compared to people, they’re uncomplicated and don’t expect much in return.

No matter how much we love them, though, pets inevitably get pushed aside when a new baby enters the equation. New mom Katie Titterton writes about how her dog has responded to having an infant in the house and what she and her husband have done to ease the transition (“Move Over, Rover,” page 18). She gets advice from other dog owners who’ve recently added babies to their broods, as well as from vets and dog trainers.

Writer Erinn Simon waited until her kids were out of diapers to add a

Champlain over the wonder

pup to the family. She pampers her pooch with crunchy, peanut-buttery pretzel treats and shares that recipe in Mealtime (page 15).

It’s been a while since contributing editor Megan James pampered her one-eyed cat; her 1-year-old daughter demands most of her attention. But the toddler and the kitty have developed their own sweet relationship, which she writes about in Use Your Words (“Kitty Love,” page 47).

Animals can bring out the best in kids. When 11-year-old Sloane

Guillian learned that white nose syndrome was decimating Vermont’s brown bat population, she constructed a bat house in her backyard to provide shelter for them (Habitat, page 43). Sonia Nussbaum, 13, this month’s One to Watch (page 8), is a dog lover who’s raised more than $19,000 for the Humane Society of Chittenden County.

This issue isn’t exclusively about animals. We’re debuting a new feature called Balancing Act about the intersection of work and family. Steve MacQueen, artistic director of the Flynn Center for Performing Arts, explains how he juggles time with his 12- and 16-year-old daughters and programming the state’s most prominent theater.

Caring for pets can be part of that balancing act, too. Whether you’re a puppy lover, a feline fanatic or an amphibian admirer like Theo, we hope you enjoy the issue!

alison novak managing Editor

some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

sarah yahm (Fit Families) is an oral historian, writer, educator and radio producer living in East Montpelier.  She has a 95-pound mutt named Fergus who she insists is half Labrador retriever, half dragon.

darcie abbene (The Art Of) is a Morrisville-based writer and educator. In addition to two young daughters, she is mama to a sweet chocolate Lab named Ellie Bellie, a dog-like cat named Big Ern and a 9-year-old tabby cat named Maple, who’s queen of them all.

Each orthodontist at Timberlane Dental Group is board-certified, and has the additional training and experience to make sure you get the best smile. Our orthodontists are well versed in all the treatment options for straightening teeth, and creating healthy smiles for you and your family.

To arrange an initial consultation at no-charge, please call Timberlane Dental Group at 802-864-6881, or visit timberlanedental.com

The orthodontists at Timberlane Dental Group are pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Matthew Rogers to the practice. With extensive experience treating adults, Matt is looking forward to providing patients of all ages with the care they need for beautiful smiles.

• Interceptive treatment of developing bite problems for children

• Comprehensive orthodontic treatment for adolescents and adults

• Treatment of complex bite problems and jaw deformities

• Clear and metal braces

• Removable Clear Aligners including Clear Correct and Invisalign®

theo and an amphibious friend

Take a Dip

In Vermont, there are a limited number of days when it’s hot enough to swim in an outdoor pool. For many families, joining a swim club is too expensive. The lake is an option, but you might not always feel like communing with nature.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of public pools — including information about cost and hours. We hope it will be useful during those dog days of summer!

PUBLIC POOL DIRECTORY

1. BUTTON BAY STATE PARK

5 Button Bay State Park Rd., Ferrisburgh, 475-2377, vtstateparks.com/htm/ buttonbay.htm

COST: Free with $2-3 park admission; free admission for children under 4. HOURS: Open swim seven days a week from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 3-7 p.m

2. ELM STREET RECREATION

Elm Street, Montpelier, 223-6829, montpelierrec.org

: For Montpelier residents: $3.50 for children through high school; $5.50 for adults; $11.50 per family. For nonresidents: $7 for children through high school; $10 for adults; $19 per family.

: Open swim Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1-8 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 1-7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from

Best of the Blog

Jazz it Up

BY JD FOX

4. MIDDLEBURY TOWN POOL

298 Buttolph Drive, Middlebury, 388-4020, townofmiddlebury.org

COST $2 for children 15 and under; $3 for adults. HOURS: Open swim seven days a week from 1-4:45 p.m. and 5:45-6:30 p.m.

5. MYERS MEMORIAL POOL

40 Pine Street, Winooski, 652-8143, winooskivt.org

COST For Winooski

residents: $1 per child; $2 for adults; $5 per family. For nonresidents: $2 per child; $4 per adult; $8 per family. Free for YMCA members.

HOURS: Open swim MondayThursday from noon-5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from noon-7 p.m.

6. SAND HILL POOL

208 Sand Hill Road, Essex 878-2973, essex.org

June’s Burlington Discover Jazz Fest featured performances from world-renowned musicians at a variety of venues, from the Church Street Marketplace to Waterfront Park, the Flynn MainStage to ArtsRiot. On Friday, June 12, young music connoisseurs were treated to a unique show from the Christian McBride Trio.

75 Maple Street, Essex Junction, 872-3370, ejrp.org

: $6 for adults; $4 for children; $2 off with proof of Essex Junction residency.

: Open swim MondayFriday from 12:30-8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 11:15 a.m.-8 p.m.; pool open exclusively for families from 5-6 p.m. seven days a week.

COST: For Essex residents: $2 for children; $3 for adults. For nonresidents: $3 for children; $4 for adults. HOURS Open swim Monday-Friday from 1-8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from noon-8 p.m.

7. ST. ALBANS CITY POOL

99 Aldis St., St. Albans, 524-6796, stalbansrec.com

COST For St. Albans residents: $5 for children and adults. For nonresidents: $7 for children and adults. For residents and nonresidents: half-price admission from 7-9 p.m. HOURS: Open swim Monday-Friday from 1-5 p.m. and 7-8:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. and 6-8:30 p.m.

“I believe that all three of us up here on this stage were just about your age when we got exposed to jazz for the first time,” four-time Grammy-winning jazz bassist Christian McBride told the young audience during his group’s “Jazz Junior” performance. “Don’t know if we liked it right away, but at least we were exposed to it, and that’s what matters the most.”

The internationally touring Christian McBride Trio — made up of McBride, pianist Christian Sands and drummer Jerome Jennings — began their five-song set at the FlynnSpace with “Ham Hocks and Cabbage,” an original instrumental piece from their album Out Here

“Anything can be jazz,” explained McBride afterward. “As long as you know what the jazz language is, you can take any song and dress it up in jazz clothing.”

The trio went on to prove that statement with jazzed-up renditions of “Send One Your Love” by Stevie Wonder (who, McBride noted, was just 12 when he started recording), followed by “I Have Dreamed” from The King and I

The hour-long concert concluded with a little surprise that fully hammered home the point: “A song that we’re not sure you’ve ever heard done as a jazz song before,” McBride said, adding that it would be familiar to everyone.

It only took a few bars before the whole audience was singing, “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.”

Read more at kidsvt.com

Sophia Hazard-Hayes at Maple Street Pool

3. MAPLE STREET PARK AND POOL  COST HOURS

Get Out: Biking with Baby

BY SARAH GALBRAITH

At 7 months old, our daughter, Elise, has excellent head control and is sitting on her own without much support from us. These are exciting milestones for any parent, but they’re especially exciting to us as cyclists. They mean she’s ready to be pulled along in a bike trailer!

For a baby as young as Elise, it is best to stick to smooth and gently rolling terrain. This minimizes bumps that could injure a baby’s neck and developing brain. For this reason, our first jaunt with Elise in the trailer was on the Stowe Recreation Path. The paved-surface trail meanders along a river valley with plenty of picturesque spots for breaks. My partner, Tristan, and I headed out to the rec path with Elise on a beautiful Sunday. We brought warm layers and cooler clothing options for Elise, sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, and a sippy cup, plus extra diapers and trash bags. We parked in the public parking lot behind Stowe Community Church on Main Street, where there’s a grassy area with picnic tables. With all of our gear packed into a large compartment on the bike trailer,

Home Cookin’: Strawberry Shortcakes

BY ERINN SIMON

I try to make the most of the short strawberry season by incorporating the ruby-red jewels into my daily menu as much as possible. In June and early July, I toss berries into my morning bowl of cereal and serve shortcake for dinner at least once or twice.

In celebration of the fabulous strawberry, I offer my recipe for the best shortcake. This is a great one to make with kids after a long afternoon of picking your own berries. Flaky biscuits, strawberries with a twist and homemade whipped cream — what more could you ask for?

Find the full recipe at kidsvt.com

COLORING CONTEST

The winners of our three gift certificates to Petra Cliffs are…

we attached it to my bike and loaded Elise in. I took her for a practice loop around the parking lot to get a feel for pulling weight and turning, listening carefully for any sounds of discontent. Thankfully there were none, so we started out on our rec-path jaunt.

The smooth, paved trail was quite di erent from our preferred cycling terrain — the excellent single-track mountain biking trails at Cady Hill Forest (on Route 108 in Stowe) or the miles of hilly dirt roads right outside our door in Marshfield. The rec path is far easier cycling, and a little less exciting, but it was still nice to get outside with the whole family. Towing a trailer did add some resistance to my spinning wheels, which created a bit of a burn for my legs!

The African rhinoceros and the oxpecker have a symbiotic relationship; the little bird eats ticks that burrow into the rhino’s thick skin and o ers a warning when predators approach. Many of the 58 young artists who participated in last month’s contest elaborated on this unusual animal friendship, adding hearts and funny dialogue to the scene. Several kids turned their odd-toed ungulates into dinosaurs; a favorite was Brody Stanton’s “Rhinosaurus Rex.” We also loved Sasha M. Woodward’s rhino enjoying a spa day, complete with ice-cold lemonade, a fresh mani-pedi and a mud bath. Keep the creativity coming, and congratulations to all the winners!

HONORABLE MENTIONS

SPARKLE MAGIC

Everleigh Dorman, 3, Underhill

SPA FRESH

Sasha M. Woodward, 10, South Burlington

DINO-MITE

Brody Stanton, 6, Montpelier

COOL COLORS

Lucas Bittner, 5, Irasburg

BIRTHDAY QUEEN

Josephine Swiech, 5, Northfield

SWEET SWIRLS

Jakobi Kmiecik, 5, Worcester

FLORAL BEAUTY

Cassidy Bouchard, 8, Hinesburg

RHINO IN UTERO

Scarlett Tarmy, 6, Monkton

HAPPY HERD

Natalee Kneeland, 8, Lowell

RUNNING WILD

Magdalena Kords, 9, Montpelier

WESTERN WONDERLAND

Emelia McCalla, 11, Rutland

NICE NINJAS

Emily Poulin, 10, Washington

Here’s what you’ n d:

❑ strawberries

❑ honey

❑ lemon

❑ all-purpose flour

❑ kosher salt

❑ sugar

TOP TITLES

Jay Kords, 5 MONTPELIER “HelloHiHo”

❑ baking soda

❑ baking powder

❑ buttermilk

❑ butter

❑ heavy cream

❑ vanilla extract

“PAINTING BIG TIME RHINO BODY AND FINGERNAILS”

Oliver Zelonis, 6, Brisol

“THE TALLEST BIRD”

Grace Filan, 7, Essex

“IS THERE A BIRD ON MY BACK?”

Hadley Harris, 9, Ferrisburgh

Aly Dorman, 6 UNDERHILL “Unique Rhino”

Maxwell McCalla, 11 RUTLAND

Find this month’s coloring contest on page 46. The deadline for submissions is July 15

“Lava Rhino”

Read more at kidsvt.com

Sarah with baby Elise in tow

FILE: SAM SIMON

COURTESY OF SARAH GALBRAITH

REAL FUN! Real Science.

THE BEAT

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG AND ALISON NOVAK

ANIMALS Meet the Caretakers

If you’ve ever visited Burlington’s ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, you’ve probably come face to face with slippery and slimy creatures such as 40-pound lake sturgeon, red-eyed tree frogs, spiny softshell turtles and eastern ratsnakes. Curious about who keeps these creatures happy and healthy? ECHO’s animal experts recently began leading BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS for groups of up to 10 people. “This is an awesome new opportunity for our guests to get a rare taste of walking in the shoes of someone that performs animal care,” says environmental exhibit specialist Jenn Dean. Participants get access to the animal-care o ces usually reserved for sta , learn about topics tailored to their interests and age level — and maybe even discover a new career path. — AN

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS last 45 minutes and cost $75 for up to 10 people, in addition to museum admission. For more information, visit echovermont.org/visitors/grouptours.

ONE TO WATCH

montshire.org • 802.649.2200

NAME: Sonia Nussbaum

AGE: 13

TOWN: Richmond

SONIA NUSSBAUM has made a big name for herself in the local animal-welfare world.

So big that when she signed in at a Humane Society of Chittenden County event six years ago, the board member working at the table asked, “The Sonia Nussbaum?”

That’s because Sonia has been helping the humane society since she was in kindergarten. At her sixth birthday party she invited her guests to bring animal treats and toys that she later donated to the shelter.

The following year, she considered asking her first grade class to contribute to the HSCC but then thought, Why not the whole grade? Ultimately, her handlettered fliers soliciting donations went home with every student at Richmond Elementary School, and a weeklong collection ensued.

Sonia ran the school’s HSCC drive for two years and a community-wide drive for the next four. In addition to countless

“ONE

blankets, towels, dog collars, cat beds and bags of pet food, she has collected more than $19,000 for the HSCC’s annual Walk for the Animals over the years. Sonia has been the highest youth fund-raiser at the walk for each of the last seven years.

“I kind of feel like she’s been doing it [since] before she could actually write,” says family friend Rod West, who promoted Sonia’s community drive on a sign at his Richmond business, Blackfork Towing. What’s more, he says, “It always felt to me like it was Sonia’s thing and not mom and dad’s.”

Susan Nussbaum followed her daughter’s lead, serving on the

HSCC board for four years. “When I got on the board, and we had to go around the table and introduce yourself, I was ‘Sonia’s mom,’” she says. Sonia credits her parents with teaching her about philanthropy. Her love of animals seems to be inborn. The Nussbaums have always had a dog, and there’s a dog in most of Sonia’s baby pictures.

“You know how you prop up a baby on a pillow? Like, I got propped up on the dog,” she says. When other kids were in their dinosaur and princess phases, Sonia lugged home the Encyclopedia of Dogs from the library.

In the fall, she heads to Mount Mansfield Union High School, where community service is required. “Of course, I’ll do it [at the HSCC],” she says. And then? “I want to be the CEO of the Humane Society of the United States.” She’s said as much to Wayne Pacelle, the man who currently holds the job. She’s met him twice.

Green Mountain Animal Defenders president Sharon MacNair says she would love to hire Sonia first. “I think it’s clear that she will change the world, especially for animals, in a profound way.” — MAL

TO WATCH” shines a light on a young Vermonter who is going places. Know a local child, age 17 or under, who’s recently done something amazing? Nominate him or her at kidsvt.com/vermont/kidsvtonetowatch/page

Sonia with her dog, Linus

booKs A Perfect Storm

The seed for Tamara Ellis Smith’s debut novel, anoTher Kind of hurricane, was planted 10 years ago, when she was en route to the Vermont State Police barracks in Williston to donate food and clothes to a Hurricane Katrina relief drive. “Who is going to get my pants?” asked her then-4-year-old son, Luc.

“I don’t know,” she told him. But she started thinking, What if you could know?

This question grew into her middle-grade novel about two 10-year-old boys: African American Zavion, who lost his house during Katrina, and white Vermonter Henry, whose best friend died tragically. Linked by grief and a pair of blue jeans with a lucky marble in the pocket, they find each other.

The story hit home for Smith when, in the midst of revisions, Tropical Storm Irene flooded the basement of her Richmond home, destroying family photos, her children’s artwork, old manuscripts and homemade Halloween

educaTion

Kickin’ it New School

Sage Bagnato, a Charlotte mom of three, has studied neuroscience and education at Harvard and worked as a classroom teacher, educational diagnostician and learning specialist. She’s putting that experience to use this fall when she opens VermonT day school, an independent K-5 school off Route 7 in Shelburne. Over the last 20 years, Bagnato has honed her vision, which includes project-based, interdisciplinary learning with a focus on science, technology, engineering and math education, aka STEM. Students will have access to an Innovation Lab where they can work on design projects and experiment with a 3-D printer. The nonprofit school will start with three multi-age classrooms and add a grade each year until the

costumes. “I felt like I was put in my story viscerally,” she says.

Smith returned to her book and fine-tuned sensory details and the emotional arcs of both boys. A portion of proceeds from the book, set for release July 14, will go to lowernine.org, a nonprofit group rebuilding houses in New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward. — mA l

anoTher Kind of hurricane: Random House/Schwartz & Wade, 336 pages, $16.99. Book launch party on July 15, 5 p.m., at Sweet Simone’s in Richmond, followed by a book signing at Stargazer Gifts and Toys in Richmond. Visit tamaraellissmith.com for more information.

oldest kids reach eighth grade. A recent $25,000 donation will go toward scholarships for qualifying students. “It’s been such a busy year,” Bagnato says of the planning that has gone into establishing the school,” and “it’s been incredibly fulfilling to see it come together.” — AN

To learn more about VermonT day school, visit vtdayschool.org or contact Sage Bagnato at info@ vtdayschool.org or 495-5150.

SWING INTO SUMMER SALE

Fort Ethan Allen Parade Grounds & Park

You’Ve probablY driVen bY this expansive play area, set back from bustling Route 15, before — perhaps telling your kids you’d stop some other day. Next time, just pull over. It’s worth it.

address: Dalton Drive, essex

Climbers will scramble for the ladders, stairs and steps leading to three tall slides on the main play structure. Big kids will explore the tire swing and zip line, dangle from the Hurricane Spinner and scale the Jax Climber (a big, plastic triangle with bulbous corners). Little ones will enjoy the toddler swings and small equipment such as balance beams and green plastic tree stumps. The main play structure has high enough walls that you don’t have to worry about young kids taking a tumble.

What really sets this place apart are the 19 acres of open space, co-owned by the towns of Colchester and Essex, perfect for running, flying a kite, kicking a ball or spreading out a picnic blanket. There’s also a trail around the perimeter of the grounds for biking and walking. K

pluses

• playground equipment updated in 2013

• exceptionally clean

• Many shaded spots

• public tennis courts on the premises

• picnic tables

• Dogs on leash are welcome

• It’s close to the Vermont National Guard library and Museum (789 Vermont National Guard road, Colchester, vtguard.com/ museum), where kids can view tanks, helicopters and planes up close, as well as military artifacts and other displays.

minuses

• just a porta-potty on-site

• No designated parking lot

photos: brooke bousquet

Fly Fishing

The difference beTween fly fishing and reel fishing isn’t just about gear or technique; it’s about philosophy. That much becomes clear after talking to 14-year-old Zach Favreau. “With fly fishing, you’re a lot closer to the fish and you can almost see it from how they see it,” he told me. “Instead of just sitting on a shore, you’re in the stream, in the fish’s environment.”

Zach, who lives in Georgia, Vt., agreed to spend a sunny Saturday morning in Jeffersonville teaching me about the sport. He learned to fly fish four years ago at the Green Mountain Fly Fishing Camp, a weeklong summer program for kids ages 11 to 15 in Groton State Forest.

Camp founder and director Chris Lynch, the manager of Green Mountain Troutfitters in Jeffersonville, barely advertises. Yet all three of his summer sessions are usually booked up by January. The camp attracts kids from all over the country, and almost all first-time campers return for another year.

These kids are passionate about

the sport, sometimes keeping at it for 15 hours a day with only small breaks for meals, says Lynch. Many campers voluntarily get up at 6 a.m. to fish before breakfast. They end each day at 9 p.m. after fishing from rowboats

on Noyes Pond, right outside their lodge.

During breaks from fishing, campers learn how to tie their own flies. No actual insects are involved; “flies” are made out of a mix of natural and synthetic materials. The idea is to create something flashy that will make a fish believe it is catching a real fly.

The key to tying a successful fly is to create something that looks like it came from the natural world. In the backroom of Green Mountain Troutfitters, Zach used a fly-tying vice, thread, beads and several specialized tools to show me how to tie a “woolly bugger,” a black-and-green fly that resembles fish food.

The woolly bugger is particularly versatile, Lynch explained, because “it could be a leech, it could be a bait fish, or just something that gets in the fish’s face and makes him angry and want to strike.” After about 10 minutes of working on it, Zach held up a tiny, delicate piece of art that he might very well sacrifice to the river right after he casts it.

“It’s better not to get too attached,” Lynch explained.     Choosing which fly to use is just as important as tying the fly. Successful fly fishermen and -women develop a sophisticated understanding of the river ecosystem. In other words, in order to trick a fish into biting their fly, they need to think like a fish. Zach says he and fellow campers have to learn what bugs are hatching, how the temperature and volume of the water affect the fish’s behavior and where fish are most likely to swim and feed.

After putting on hip waders and boots, Zach and I walked down to the Brewster River. He waded up to his waist into the center of the stream and began casting in a slow deliberate circle, showing me the spots where the trout would most likely be. “You see up there?” he gestured to the darker, shallower section of the water underneath an overhanging rock. “That’s where you want to put your bug imitators.”

As I stood half-submerged next to Zach, feeling the late spring sun on my back and listening to the water rush past me, I started to understand why this sport might elicit such intense dedication.

We didn’t catch anything, but that didn’t bother Zach. Hanging out in the river on a beautiful summer day seemed to be its own reward.

“The fish are just a bonus,” Lynch explained when we peeled off our wet boots inside the shop. “A big part of it is just for the places that it takes us.” K for more information on family biking, including a free parents’ guide to bike safety and a curriculum guide for teaching bike skills to kids ages 8-14, visit localmotion.org/ education/bikeskillstraining.

where To LeArn

Green Mountain Fly Fishing Camp, ages 11-15, Groton State Forest, gmffc.com

Vermont TU Trout Camp, ages 13-16, Quimby Country Lodge, vermonttroutcamp.com

Zach favreau fishing in the brewster river

many campers voluntarily get up at 6 a.m. to do some fishing before breakfast.

Tying flies at Green Mountain Troutfitters

Stage Dad

Sitting down with the Flynn’s artistic director, Steve MacQueen

a self-described Air Force brat, Steve MacQueen, 51, grew up all over the country. In 1983, he enrolled at Florida State University in Tallahassee, where he met his now-wife, Kim. It took him 13 years — during which time he worked as an arts journalist for the Florida Flambeau and The TallahasseeDemocrat — to earn his bachelor’s degree.

That wasn’t the only time MacQueen took the long way ’round. When Kim told him they should either start a family or move to New York City, he picked the latter, landing a job as press officer at the Parks Department. By the time they left the city in 1998, Kim was pregnant with their first child, Claire.

That same year, MacQueen started a marketing job for the 400-seat, “acoustically perfect” Spivey Hall in Atlanta. Then MacQueen’s boss asked him to build the venue’s jazz series. His first booking: Sonny Rollins, for a shockingly low $12,000.

After a stint in Asheville, N.C., and a few more years in Tallahassee, MacQueen landed the Flynn position. His family moved to Burlington in 2012.

Kids VT recently sat down with MacQueen to talk about how he juggles family time with programming the state’s most prominent theater, and what his daughters have taught him about life and work.

on the early years of parenting: We moved to Atlanta in 1998 when Kim was pregnant. I had a week to buy a car, rent a house and find a job. And I did all three. And all three were terrible. I got the worst Camry ever. I got this house by the train tracks. And I got this job working for an insurance cult, writing propaganda.

I started the marketing job at

Spivey Hall in Atlanta when Claire was exactly 1 month old. So I was delirious. It was amazing to me that they thought I was coherent at all.

on the morning routine: Claire goes to Burlington High School. Rose goes to Edmunds Middle School. The challenge is getting Claire into the car so Rose won’t be late. My wife does the driving duty because she’s a morning person. She’s already been up for two hours. I’m not a morning type. It’s fairly frenzied; we always get up too late.

What his kids have learned from his performing-arts career:

I force them to come to some performances. I’ve learned they don’t like modern dance. But they love the Broadway stuff. Their revenge on their new-wave, cutting-edge dad is to go right to the heart of the most mainstream thing. Claire’s favorite movie of all time is Cabaret Rose, she’s more my old-movie buddy. I was so proud of her last week. We had just watched Sullivan’s

Travels. Great ’40s comedy. It has Veronica Lake in it. So, we’re walking down Church Street a few days later, past the mural by the parking garage. And Rose walks up to it and goes, “Isn’t that Veronica Lake?” It was. And I think, God, I love this kid!

on working nights and weekends: There are certainly times when I feel like I’m away from my kids too long, too frequently. But I’m so fortunate to have my partner, Kim, who’s incredible.

I have a busy job. I’d love to find ways to scale it back. But we have a small staff and a ton of shows. And I am wholly dedicated to doing the best job that I can. Sometimes that does get in the way of family time. And sometimes it bothers me.

But I built the schedule for the place, so I’ve got nobody to be mad at but myself.

How his view of parenting has changed:

As a young adult, I thought that parenting was this chore and responsibility and slog — and I guess

there are moments like that. But that’s not how I feel about it at all. I love sitting at the dinner table with my kids, just walking down Church Street with them. They’re delightful young people. I can’t wait to see how they turn out.

on what he admires in his kids:

Even as a young child, Claire was always giving. She tries to understand people’s motivation. She has always had an ability to see outside of herself, well beyond her years.

Rose takes such joy from projects. And the thrill of discovery that she can have is like nothing I’ve ever seen. I hate complaining about my job, because it’s a really cool job. But sometimes, in any job, you get in a rut. But when I see Rose’s face light up when she presents some art she’s done — she’s a very good artist — I realize that I can do that at work, too. Like, Look at this show, it’s incredible! This amazing artist came to our town, and I brought them here What a thrill. My daughters have helped me a lot. They’ve made me a better person. I think that’s what kids do. K

dad: steve macQueen, artistic director of the Flynn Center for the Performing arts

mom: Kim macQueen, managing editor at Champlain College Publishing Initiative daughters: Claire, 16, and Rose, 12

MacQueen in his office with daughter Rose

Featured Creatures

For this month’s issue, Kids VT asked local librarians to recommend books with animals as main characters.

Waiting is Not Easy!

BY MO WILLEMS

The two friends in this story — part of Willems’ popular Elephant and Piggie series — take di erent approaches to anticipation. Gerald the elephant quickly loses his patience, while Piggie tries to assure him that some things are worth waiting for.

Waiting is Not Easy! is “a really fun book to read aloud,” says Michelle Willey, youth librarian at Waterbury Public Library. She adds that kids will enjoy the “wonderful yet simple surprise at the end.”

Catwings

BY URSULA K. LE GUIN

Mrs. Jane Tabby’s four kittens have an unusual physical feature: wings. When the felines are old enough to fly, their mama sends them out into the world on their own. They have trouble finding a place to live because of their odd appearance but eventually discover a loving pair of human siblings who give them a home.

“The siblings, both animal and human, interact with kindness and friendship towards one another,” says Rutland Free Library children’s librarian, June Osowski, who praises the book’s “enchanting illustrations.” It’s a good choice for readers transitioning from easy readers to chapter books, she adds.

Book-Inspired Contest Winners

The Wind in the Willows

BY KENNETH GRAHAME

This classic, first published in 1908, originated as a bedtime story for Grahame’s son, Alistair. Set in pastoral England, it focuses on four anthropomorphized animals. Normally quiet and reserved Mole leaves home and meets adventurous Rat, reliable Badger and foolish Toad.

Despite its age, the book “remains an entertaining tale for kids and adults,” says Joshua Muse, technology and communication specialist at Burnham Memorial Library in Colchester. He extols Grahame’s “charming descriptions of the pleasures of friendship and home” and recommends looking for one of the excellent illustrated versions.

Congratulations to these talented young artists who submitted captioned drawings of their favorite summer outings inspired by Pictures from Our Vacation by Lynne Rae Perkins. Each wins a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop in Burlington. Here you’ll find one of the winning drawings.

Honorable Mentions:

Abigail Cribby, 7 GEORGIA

Amelia Mead Boardman, 9 SHELBURNE

Cynthia Smith, 11 BERLIN

Ruby Harrison, 8 MIDDLEBURY

I love to go camping by the ocean. It’s like you are about to blow away!

Recommendations compiled by Alison Novak

THE LEARNING CENTER AT HEALTHY LIVING

SUMMER FRUIT GAZPACHO

INGREDIENTS

2 cups 1” cubed cantaloupe

2 cups 1” cubed seedless watermelon

1 large European cucumber

1 lb strawberries, hulled

1 Tbsp fresh lime juice

Zest of 1 lime

Fresh mint leaves

DIRECTIONS

Peel, seed and chop the cucumber. Purée the cantaloupe and watermelon cubes, cucumber, half of the strawberries and lime juice until smooth. Chop the remaining strawberries into 1/2” chunks and add to soup along with 1/2 tsp of lime zest. Taste and add more zest if desired. Finely chop several mint leaves and add to soup. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

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This week-long camp offers adventures both indoors and out! Campers will start their day embarking on a variety of culinary pursuits in the Healthy Living Learning Center. A er finishing the morning off with a tasty lunch, they're off to the water to spend the a ernoon with Lake Champlain Community Sailing Center and learn fundamental skills for sailing on Lake Champlain!

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Pretzels for Pups

I BUGGED MY HUSBAND for years about getting a puppy. But Sam always argued that we should wait until all three of our kids were out of diapers before we became pet owners. He had a point.

I grew up with dogs but was never responsible for raising one. As an adult, I knew it would require a lot of work, but that didn’t stop me from obsessively browsing petfinder.com, posting pictures of other people’s adorable puppies on Sam’s Facebook page and sounding o about how much I wanted a dog to anyone who would listen.

Sam finally relented, and for our anniversary, in May — 18 months after potty training our youngest kid — he surprised me with Izzy, a black-Labmix rescue pup.

Izzy is a lot of work, but she’s worth it. I love taking her for walks, running around outside with her, watching her snuggle with the kids and snuggling her myself. I’ve even enjoyed training her.

In my role as lunch lady at Burlington Children’s Space, I spend most of my time cooking for others. These days, that includes cooking for the dog. I don’t mean meals; I haven’t gone down the homemade-dog-food road — yet. But making treats is one of the ways I show love to my family, and that includes Izzy now.

My kids and I love to bake soft pretzels (find the recipe at kidsvt.com). Izzy would die to get her paws on one of those salty twists, so I decided to make a smaller, crunchier, peanut-butterflavored version just for her. I hope they’re a hit with your furry friends!

IZZY’S PEANUT-BUTTER-PRETZEL PUP TREATS

THE ISSUE

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups whole-wheat flour

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 cup soy milk

1 tablespoon honey

1 cup smooth peanut butter

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, stir together flour, salt and baking powder. In another bowl, mix the soy milk, honey and peanut butter.

Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, a little at a time, stirring to combine before adding more. The dough should be stiff.

Now, the fun part! Make the treats into whatever shapes you like, either by molding the dough by hand or rolling it out and using cookie cutters. If you’re making pretzels, roll the dough into a rough oval, then cut it into strips and roll them into strands about eight inches long. Twist each strand into a pretzel shape, then transfer to the lined baking sheets.

Bake treats for about 25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.

Store in a paper bag at room temperature for up to a week.

PHOTOS: SAM SIMON

Erinn’s new pup, Izzy

What Parents Should Know About Ticks and Lyme Disease

TICKS ARE A BIG PROBLEM in Vermont. As a result of climate change, the so-called “tick line” has steadily moved north over the past few years to include the whole state. About half the state’s deer ticks now carry Lyme disease, according to Lyndon State College biology professor Alan Geise. In 2013, Vermont had more Lyme disease cases per capita than any other state in the country. In the past few months, Vermont’s tick activity has been at the top of the national charts, according to WebMD.

Dr. Lewis First, head of pediatrics at the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital, recommends ways to keep ticks away and describes symptoms that may indicate the onset of Lyme disease.

KIDS VT: How prevalent is Lyme disease in Vermont?

DR. LEWIS FIRST: In the past five years Lyme has spread pretty widely throughout Vermont. Every county in the state has reported a case. We’ve gone from maybe 200 cases per year five years ago to an expected 500 cases this year.

KVT: What’s the best way to avoid Lyme?

LF: I recommend a three-step prevention strategy: Avoid the ticks, repel the ticks and remove the ticks if you find one of them. Who’s not going to be in a wooded area this summer? When you are, stay in the middle of trails and be careful around shady, moist ground, tall grasses, brush, shrubs and low tree branches. Lawns and gardens at the edge of woods are rife with ticks. They also hang around stone walls because often that’s where deer, mice and chipmunks deposit them.

Deer ticks (also known as blacklegged ticks), which carry Lyme disease, are so tiny — as small as a sesame seed or pencil point — that many times people don’t even realize they’ve been bitten. Often doctors have to make a diagnosis based on a combination of patient’s symptoms, medical history and where he or she has been.

KVT: Can certain clothing keep ticks at bay?

LF: It’s a good idea to wear light-colored clothing so you can spot ticks. I know it’s hot in the summer, but when kids are in the woods or grassy areas, they should wear pants tucked into their shoes or socks to prevent ticks from crawling up their legs. Kids should get into the shower within two hours of playing outside to wash any potential ticks o of them. Parents should check for ticks behind their children’s ears, in the groin, behind their knees, along their waistband and in other skin folds where they may hide.

KVT: What’s the best tick repellent?

LF: Use an insect repellent that contains no more than 30 percent of the chemical DEET. I wouldn’t go higher than that due to its potential toxicity. Apply sparingly to exposed skin no more than every six hours. Avoid putting it on the hands of young kids who put their fingers in their mouths.

KVT: What if parents find a tick on their child?

LF: Get a pair of tweezers and pinch the tick around its head, where the tick latches to the skin, and pull steadily upward to disengage it. If part of the tick stays in, it will

eventually come out on its own. Or take a cotton ball dipped in liquid soap and hold it against the tick for 30 seconds. The tick will stick to the cotton ball and pull o . If the tick is burrowed in, you can use a sterile needle to dislodge it. Do not use petroleum jelly to smother the tick, or a lit match to kill it. The tick will just burrow in farther or release more saliva, which contains the bacteria that causes Lyme. Once the tick is removed, swab the a ected area with rubbing alcohol.

KVT: How likely are kids to get Lyme once they’re bitten?

LF: The chance of getting bitten by a tick and then contracting Lyme disease ranges probably from 1 to 5 percent. That means kids have a 95 percent chance of being bitten by a deer tick and not getting Lyme disease. (The larger dog tick does not carry Lyme.) It takes the deer tick anywhere from 36 to 48 hours to inject the bacteria into the skin. By that point the tick has usually dislodged

That — combined with muscle aches, a low-grade fever, headaches and swollen glands — points to Lyme. I recommend that pediatricians lean on the side of caution because Lyme, when caught early, is easily treated in children with a simple, low-risk antibiotic like amoxicillin for two to four weeks.

KVT: Does Lyme always cause a bull’s-eye rash?

LF: You should find it 70 to 80 percent of the time, meaning in one out of every four or five cases, you won’t. A blood test can result in a lot of false positives and false negatives — and it won’t show up as positive unless you’re four to eight weeks into the disease so it is not usually used to make the diagnosis. It is important to note that a bull’s-eye rash could also be caused by fungal diseases, such as ringworm, and autoimmune diseases so the history and other symptoms can help your child’s health care professional determine if Lyme disease is occurring in your child.

KVT: What if parents mistake Lyme symptoms for another illness and don’t treat it right away?

fallen o the body, thus usually preventing the disease from occurring.

KVT: What symptoms should parents watch for?

LF: Lyme symptoms generally appear one to two weeks after a bite. The telltale symptom is the “bull’s-eye” rash: redness in the center, then clearing, then another ring of redness spreading outward. The rash, which is typically flat and painless but may itch, goes away over a period of weeks.

LF: If you miss the early symptoms, four to eight weeks later, a child may develop a rapid heartbeat, dizziness, palpitations, paralysis of the face (Bell’s palsy) and possibly more severe neurological symptoms. If it goes untreated for six months, you can get joint aches. Even then, though, you can still successfully treat Lyme disease in children with antibiotics.

Do not use petroleum jelly to smother the tick, or a lit match to kill it.

Fairy-House Making

Fairies are Famously elusiVe. But keen-eyed kids know that all it takes is a little time in nature to find — or build — a fairy house.

Half a dozen such preschoolers gathered in a field at the Green Mountain Audubon Center one recent morning to make magical miniature dwellings from natural materials. Early-childhood-education specialist Sophie Mazowita, who led the workshop, called the children — several of whom wore colorful flower crowns and fairy wings — together into a circle.

“What makes a good fairy house?” she asked.

The kids responded excitedly: “Flowers!” “Leaves!” “Sparkly things!”

Building on their enthusiasm, Mazowita launched into a story about how fairies are born. It all begins with a special flower: trillium. Each of its three white petals has a pink stripe down the center, she explained. When the flower goes to seed, the enchanted petals fall off. If you catch them at midnight, you will turn into a fairy.

After passing around some images of fairies, the kids got down to business. Mazowita showed the group photographs of fairy houses and helped them brainstorm a list of building items they could find in the forest around them.

Before leading the group to Hemlock Swamp — the most magical spot on the Audubon property, Mazowita promised — she handed out containers for collecting leaves, seeds, acorns, pinecones and anything else that caught the young architects’ attention.

They set out for the swamp at a leisurely pace. The kids pretended to be fairies, hiding behind

trees when Mazowita called out, “The humans are coming! The humans are coming!” On the far side of a bridge stretching over the swamp, they came across a large, moss-covered log with partially exposed roots. Mazowita invited the group to explore the sundappled spot and find a place to create their own spritely abode.

Four-year-old Hadley Abbene quickly set to work, converting a fairy

house left by a participant of an earlier workshop into a horse stable. She used sticks to create stalls and piles of grass for horse food. Then, she moved to the base of two neighboring trees, which came together to form a V, and covered that hollow with a roof made of sticks, moss and a mushroom.

A mother asked her daughter, who was busy building, “Do you want to walk around and check out everyone else’s?”

For more information about children’s programs at the Green mountain audubon center, visit vt.audubon. org/calendar-events.

said the girl, her eyes fixed on the project in front of her.

Nearby, two sisters collaborated on a house next to the giant log. Using deadwood, they created a roof over large tree roots. Acorn shells served as bowls on a rock table. Leaves served as a blanket on a fairy bed of moss; pinecones and acorns filled a pantry made of small twigs.

THe Fairy House moVemenT

“Still building,” a very serious voice responded.

Another mom asked her child, “Can I take a picture? Or are you still working?”

“I’m still working,”

After about an hour of building, Mazowita called the group together to admire their finished fairy houses. She brought the workshop to a close by reading a poem about searching for a fairy house in the hopes of discovering a fairy. The kids listened attentively, looking as enchanted as the little dwellings they had created. K

How did fairy houses get so popular with the kiddie set? Thank Tracey Kane. Wandering the coast of Maine as an adult more than a decade ago, the New Hampshire-based artist happened upon fairy houses families had built together. She was so captivated by the creative, natural structures that she decided to write a children’s book on the subject. Fairy Houses, published in 2001, led to a 2004 DVD, Kristen’s Fairy House, and later to more books. Kane sprinkles a little pixie dust on Vermont this month. She’ll read from her books and show photos of whimsical fairy habitats at the Justin Morrill Homestead in Strafford on Saturday, July 18. Visitors can check out the historic site’s brand-new fairy village and create their own diminutive dwellings. Preregister for the event by July 12 at 765-4288 or director@morrillhomestead.org.

sisters work together to build a fairy house

a magical dwelling at the audubon center

Move Over, Rover

STORY BY KATIE TITTERTON ILLUSTRATIONS BY MO OH

A PROPER INTRODUCTION

First impressions are critical when dog meets baby. Dogs don’t like surprises and, when startled, may react aggressively. With a little planning, though, parents can ease a pooch into the reality of having a new family member, and even help the dog understand and embrace its big-sibling role.

Kratochvil-Meertens suggests that parents use the cap their infant wears right after birth to help a pup acclimate to the new baby’s scent. “Bring it home and put it in the dog bed,” she says.

Erin Hurley and Noah Derman took that recommendation to heart. After their daughter, Rosa, was born at Gi ord Medical Center in Randolph, they gave the baby’s hat to Pu , their flu y chow-shepherd rescue. “Pu y was insanely interested in this hat, sni ng it, carrying it around,” Hurley recalls. “He knew it had something to do with me and Noah.”

When Rosa came home, Pu put two and two together. “Five minutes after he met her, he tore a tennis ball to shreds,” says Hurley. “That was his entire anxiety about this child. Then it was over, and we were perfectly happy.”

Last May I was out for a walk with my dog and week-old son when we ran into a friend. She peered into the baby carrier at Russell, then patted my dog on the head. “Sorry, Josie,” she said to our scrappy mixed-breed. “You’ve been demoted.”

Over the course of my pregnancy, people asked my husband and me if we were prepared for the transition from pet owners to parents — and the inevitable shift in our focus. “How do you think Josie’s going to take it?” they asked. We didn’t know the answer.

Like many Vermonters, we are dog people. Like, in love with our dog. When Josie got a muscle cramp in her tail from swimming too long in the river two summers ago, I spent hours pressing a heating pad against her rump. When my husband traveled for work, I’d sleep on the futon, spooning hairy, smelly Josie.

Josie has been our baby — and our adventure companion, couch snuggler and sometime Facebook profile picture — for the last five years. But we knew that a human baby would trump the

canine variety. Leading up to Russell’s birth, we worried that Josie might become an afterthought or, worse, an inconvenience. We didn’t want her feeling jealous or threatened, and we knew she would continue to need exercise and attention.

Huntington parents Pete and Keri Hess took a di erent tack. Knowing their Great Pyrenees, Lily, was from a herding breed, they introduced their son, Will, as a new member of her flock. Under their supervision, they let Lily sni and watch the baby, while giving the dog plenty of attention.

work, patience and intuition. Figuring out the

Being a dog owner with a new baby requires work, patience and intuition. Figuring out the dynamic isn’t always easy, but it can help your new family bond.

“The priorities change so much,” acknowledges Dr. Simone KratochvilMeertens, a veterinarian at South Burlington’s Green Mountain Animal Hospital. “But [dogs are] still part of the family, and they need to be treated that way.”

“Once she saw Will was part of the family, it was business as usual for Lily. She became just as serious about being a guardian for Will as she was for us,” says Pete. “It may have been my imagination, but I almost feel like she

took her role more seriously with the new baby around. When other dogs are around, Lily will keep an eye on Will in case any of the other dogs get too close to him.”

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GROWING PAINS

Even if the first introduction goes well, you can’t always predict how your dog will react to a new baby, says Robyn Santor, owner of Spirit Dog training in Winooski. After her daughter, Etta, was born, her two dogs had starkly di erent reactions. Cooper, a Lab mix, was interested in the baby, but Olive, an American bulldog mix, kept her distance. Instead of forcing Olive to interact with the baby, Santor gave the dog space to come to terms with the change.

The dog managed to get into the diaper pail and rip open dirty ones.

Burlington parents Kianna and Sam Bromley had an equally stinky problem. Their Portuguese water dog, Abeja, was overly a ectionate with their baby, Zöe. “She’s almost too loving. She’s very lick-y,” Bromley says.

THE ISSUE

“It’s important for them to have a place to go where they can be away from it, if they want to be,” she says. By now, both dogs are used to having Etta around, but Santor still protects their space. She won’t let her crawling daughter treat the dogs like toys. “My daughter

“We had to push her face away because she eats poop.”

wants to grab and yank recalls Bromley.

The Bromleys also had to change their rules around personal space. In the past, the dog had hopped up on the family bed every morning. But with a new baby to snuggle, the couple suddenly realized the bed wasn’t big enough for four. It wasn’t easy reteaching the dog to stay down when she clearly wanted to jump up and cuddle. “Is the baby on the bed or is the dog on the bed? That was hard,” recalls Bromley.

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on everything,” she says. Setting up an unrealistic expectation that all dogs will tolerate such treatment, she reasons, “is not fair to my daughter, and it’s not fair to my dogs.”

Introducing a new baby can be unsettling even for the most reliable pets. Dog owners are likely to find themselves redirecting behaviors and enforcing new boundaries.

Julia and Tom Rogers of Stowe own Sylvester, an elderly rottweilermalamute mix with a regal bearing and generally good manners. But when baby Nora arrived last year, Sylvester registered his skepticism in a way he knew they would understand.

“The night we brought Nora home, he threw up three times in our bedroom and stole food o the counter,” Julia says. “Then he got to the diapers.”

SAFETY FIRST

Abeja is still allowed on the bed — sometimes. She has to ask first. “We kicked her off a bunch

still allowed first. “We off a bunch

of times, would get her to sit at the base of the bed, and then would invite her up and reward her,” says Bromley. “She got it pretty quick, and started to yip to let us know when she wanted to be invited up.”

Parents with anxious dogs — or dogs with a history of bad behavior — are right to be concerned. Dogs, when stressed, can bite. Fortunately, many behavioral issues can be trained away (see sidebar on page 20).

The No. 1 safety rule: Watch your dog. As canine program coordinator at the Humane Society of Chittenden County, Katelyn Little has been on the receiving end of some sad situations. “The biggest thing we’ve noticed when dogs are relinquished is there’s an instance

Move Over, Rover CONTINUED

when the dog and kid were together and weren’t supervised,” she says.

As babies get older, especially when they begin crawling and walking, they can stress out an otherwise mellow dog. “Children tend to be erratic, and that’s when things get hairy,” says Tammy Schey, who owns the Crate Escape in Richmond and the Crate Escape Too in South Burlington. “Dogs do give warning signals. They don’t bite out of the blue.” A watchful adult can intervene before the dog nips — or worse.

Of course, safety works both ways.

Dogs sometimes behave instinctively to keep their pack safe. Our Josie is an unreformed barker, sending up a lusty aroo every time we get a UPS delivery. I was pregnant when my Richmond neighborhood was hit by a series of home invasions this winter, and was grateful to have a canine alarm protecting my turf.

Angie Coyne was pregnant last September when her masti mix, Cody, killed a rabid raccoon by the river on her rural Duxbury property. A week later, he killed another one on her front porch.

The dog was vaccinated, but the experience was terrifying. Afraid of contracting the deadly virus, Coyne consulted with an infectious disease specialist, who determined she was at very low risk. “However, at eight months pregnant,” Coyne says, “I was literally having zombie nightmares.”

Still, without Cody’s defense, Coyne thinks it could have been far worse. “I thought he deserved a ribbon for taking out the rabid raccoons of Duxbury,” she says. “I was thinking about bringing my baby down to the river the next summer … I’m glad I have Cody to protect us, because he would never let anything happen to his family.”

FROM P. 19

AND BABY MAKES FOUR

As families develop a new rhythm, dogs usually come to accept the change. After she came back from the hospital, Robyn Santor remembers, “For a couple of months, I was a crazy, sleep-deprived person. My schedule was not consistent and we were not doing our regular walk.” Reestablishing routines is important, she says. That may mean hiring a dog walker or getting an occasional hand from a friend or family member.

It also helps if there’s something in it for Fido. Julia Rogers says Sylvester, the gentleman dog turned diaper diver, figured out that baby Nora can hook him up with snacks. “He likes her a lot more now that she eats food and sits in a high chair!” Rogers says, adding that the first time Nora crawled, it was to Sylvester.

In my house we’ve worked on praising Josie while Russell nurses and petting her when he fusses.

We also had good timing. Russell was born right as what felt like the longest, coldest winter ever transformed into a gorgeous spring. In these early months, we’ve spent a lot of time doing Josie’s favorite activity: walking. Josie loves the extra exercise, and she’s learned to associate the baby with walks. When the Bjorn baby carrier goes on, Josie’s by the door, pointing the way.

And, unexpectedly, Russell has brought my husband and Josie even closer. When I feed Russ, which is all the time, they hang out together.

In early June, we went on a family foraging expedition in the woods — the type of activity we’ve always done with Josie. As Russ slept in his carrier and the dog romped over fallen trees, I realized my fears about Josie feeling left out haven’t materialized. This is just what our family looks like now — and all four of us are a part

it.

Bringing Fido Into the Fold

Expecting a baby? Here are some things you can do to help your dog adjust — and signs that you may need a little extra support.

SOCIALIZE

Invite over friends with little ones, says Katelyn Little of the Humane Society of Chittenden County: “Socialize your dogs with kids so they understand that they’re friends and playful and they’re not threats.”

TRAIN AWAY BAD BEHAVIORS NOW

Work on dog training before you expand your family, says Amanda Poquette, owner of Gulliver’s Doggie Daycare in Williston. In the interest of safety and sanity, she says, “You have to make sure your dog has good manners.”

Tammy Schey of the Crate Escape agrees. “Do training classes first so you have tips on hand to implement once you have the baby,” she recommends.

If you procrastinated on training during pregnancy, don’t worry. Just make sure to get any naughtiness worked out while Junior is

still a newborn. “In general, you have time to work on stuff because the baby is not mobile,” says Dr. Simone Kratochvil-Meertens of Green Mountain Animal Hospital.

“Initially it’s not a safety concern when the baby comes home. Just never leave them on the floor with the dog. It’s not worth the risk.”

SIGNS TO WATCH FOR

An anxious dog will chew things, says Kratochvil-Meertens, or show increased separation anxiety, barking when you leave the house.

Watch out for clenched teeth, ears folded straight back or visible white space in its eyes, cautions Schey. These things indicate a dog is nervous or agitated.

PRACTICE INCLUSION

Poquette recommends saving small chunks of time just for you and your dog. Going for a walk, playing fetch or taking an agility class will reinforce your bond and give you a break from baby duties.

“It’s important to not make the dog feel excluded,” seconds Kratochvil-Meertens. Give your pooch pats and praise in front of the baby “so the dog understands the new baby in the house is actually a positive thing for him.”

Braces

it the “Federa Building”) and many storefronts were empty. “This is like the land time forgot,” Je remarked.

“Are we in a zombie apocalypse?”

We hadn’t met any undead invaders by the time we reached our destination. There weren’t many living visitors there yet, either. From the nearly empty parking lot, we glimpsed sheer rock walls and a huge, powerful waterfall. Grand, indeed.

Day-cations Rockin’ and Raftin’

School’s out, and “Daycations” are in. Every summer, Kids VT seeks out family-friendly destinations where you and your kids can experience the natural beauty and unique culture of our region. They’re all places you can visit in a day.

Each of our three summer issues features two recommended trips, complete with tips on nearby dining and attractions. This month, managing editor Alison Novak takes her crew across Lake Champlain to see the natural wonders of Ausable Chasm, while contributor Sarah Galbraith brings her family — including chocolate lab Odin — to Dog Mountain in the Northeast Kingdom.

Looking for more day-trip ideas? Read the rest of our award-winning Day-cation series at kidsvt.com.

BY ALISON NOVAK

Ausable Chasm, 2144 Route 9, Ausable Chasm, N.Y., 518-834-7454, ausablechasm.com

I might as well have said we were going to Timbuktu when I told my kids — 8-year-old Mira and 5-yearold Theo — that we were taking a day trip to Ausable Chasm.

“What’s that?” they both asked.

“It’s a fun place in New York, on the other side of Lake Champlain,” I explained. “We can hike cool, rocky trails and ride on a raft.”

To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect myself. The Ausable Chasm website touts the attraction, gouged out of sandstone by a glacier millions of years ago, as “the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks.” I suspected that, as with most natural wonders, you have to see it with your own eyes to get it.

We embarked on a perfect Sunday morning in June, with temperatures in the low 70s, arriving at the Charlotte ferry dock just in time to catch the 9 a.m. boat. We spent the 25-minute trip outside our car on the deck, the wind whipping our hair,

cool lake water spraying up at us. It was so pleasant that my husband, Je , and I wondered why we don’t take the ferry more often — just for fun.

The boat docked in Essex, N.Y. From there, we drove half an hour north to the chasm. At first, the woodsy roads had a decidedly summer-camp feel. By the time we hit Keeseville, though, the surroundings seemed less idyllic. The federal building was missing an “L” (making

We stepped into the welcome center, a large facility with a cafeteria, gift shop and ticket counter. There we bought passes for the family-friendly Classic Tour. That includes access to scenic trails plus a raft ride through the narrowest part of the chasm.

Two di erent trails lead down to Table Rock, where we’d commence our raft ride on the Ausable River:

The two-mile Rim Walk is an easier, mostly flat, wood-chip-covered trail, while the one-mile, intermediatelevel Inner Sanctum Trail runs along the edge of the chasm, over natural stone walkways, up and down staircases and across bridges. We opted for the latter.

The 30-minute walk along sheer cli s — with a roughly 40-foot drop to the water below — took us all out of our comfort zones, especially cautious Mira. But the trail is well maintained and the guardrails seemed secure. I never worried about our safety.

Along the way, we stopped to inspect interesting, well-marked rock formations including Elephant’s Head, which is shaped like an elephant’s trunk. We took a break at a picnic table on a large, flat part of the trail, watching pigeons swoop across the gorge while we ate granola bars.

After descending a long staircase to Table Rock, we met our raft tour guide. He handed us life jackets and told us to take our shoes o if we didn’t want them to get wet. He’d been leading tours for eight years, since he was 14, and he assured us that no one had ever fallen out of the raft on his watch.

We hopped in the inflatable boat, along with a father-and-son pair who had arrived just before we did. Then we floated down the river between the rock walls while our guide peppered us with chasm lore.

FILE: PAT LEWIS

PHOTOS: JEFF NOVAK

Theo on the raft ride through the chasm

The Novak family rafting

THE ISSUE

A Place for Pooches

By

“Car ride! Let’s go!” I called to my dog, Odin, pointing at the open car door. My partner, Tristan, and 7-month-old daughter, Elise, were already buckled in.

Our 8-year-old chocolate lab takes his time these days. He ambled over to the car and took his usual spot next to Elise’s car seat. Little did he know, he was in for a treat: We were headed to Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury, where canines are king.

Our car was packed with supplies: a baby carrier, snacks and a sippy cup for Elise, a water bowl for Odin and a picnic blanket. We drove from our home in Marshfield to downtown St. Johnsbury, where we stopped at a deli for picnic fixings and cold drinks. We also picked up one of Odin’s favorite snacks, a tin of sardines packed in olive oil.

To reach Dog Mountain, situated about three miles from town, we turned onto a dirt road, then climbed a long driveway to the picturesque property. The 150-acre compound includes the world’s only Dog Chapel, a large barn,

hiking trails, gardens, ponds and an art gallery featuring the work of artist Stephen Huneck, famous primarily for his wood carvings and paintings of dogs.

Huneck created Dog Mountain with his wife, Gwen.

Sadly, this beautiful place has a tragic backstory: Huneck committed suicide in 2010, and three years later, Gwen took her own life. Dog Mountain is now run by a nonprofit organization with support from Burlington City Arts.

We parked our car and headed for Huneck’s gallery. Ben, the attendant there, told us that Stephen Huneck galleries once existed in every state in New England. The Dog Mountain gallery is the only one that remains.

It’s full of Huneck’s whimsical, canine-centric carvings, handmade furniture, wood-block prints, books and T-shirts. My favorite print, “My Dog’s Brain,” shows a cross-section of a pooch’s mind. It’s divided into interests:

food, bones, chasing cars and jumping up on visitors.

In the book section, Elise and I found Sally Goes to the Beach, a picture book featuring a black Labrador retriever — Huneck’s dog, Sally — who packs her bags and heads to the ocean. We already own several books from the Sally series and bought this one to complete our collection.

Dogs playing on a grassy hill

Dog Chapel

Day-cations: Ausable Chasm

Before 1996, visitors rode through the chasm in canoes. But in January of that year, devastating floods destroyed much of the chasm’s infrastructure, including cables that helped to pull the canoes back up the river. Crews rebuilt bridges and safety rails, and inflatable rafts replaced the canoes.

The 20-minute raft ride was smooth, though at one point we bumped around a bit in Class 1 whitewater. For Mira and Theo, the small rapids were the highlight of the trip; both said they wished that there had been more of them.

Back on dry land, we declined a trolley ride back to the welcome center and decided to walk instead on the 1.5-mile Dry Chasm Trail. The rocky, wooded path took us through two riverbeds that had dried up thousands of years ago and gave us a chance to do some rock scrambling.

By the time we got back to the welcome center, we’d worked up an appetite. Our rafting guide had recommended a local brewery, which gave both Jeff and I grand visions of shiny, metal casks and beer-battered onion rings. Alas, we discovered that the

Know before you go:

Cross lake Champlain on one of these ferries: the Charlotte ferry goes to essex, n y and takes about 25 minutes. from essex, it’s about a 30-minute drive north to Ausable Chasm. the 15-minute Grand isle ferry goes to plattsburgh, n y from there, drive 20 minutes south to the chasm. the Burlington ferry takes an hour to arrive in port Kent, n y from there, it’s just a sevenminute drive west to the chasm. for ferry rates and schedules, visit ferries.com. the classic Tour of Ausable chasm, which includes trail access and a raft tour (or tubing in July and August) costs $29.95 for adults and teens and $19.95 for children ages 5-12. the Premium Package — for thrill seekers ages 8 and up — also includes the Adventure trail: cargo-net climbs, cable bridges and a harnessed walk along the edge of the chasm. that costs $49.95 for adults and teens and $39.95 for children ages 8-12.

Wear sneakers or waterproof shoes if you’re planning to hike the trails. flip-flops aren’t allowed. pack towels and a change of clothes, just in case.

No strollers are permitted on the trails. our 5-year-old handled the hiking well, but the terrain, and the heights, might be challenging or intimidating for a younger child. Kids must weigh at least 30 pounds for the raft tour.

Arrive early! We got to the chasm at 10 a.m. and encountered few other visitors. But when we returned to the welcome center around 12:30 p.m., the parking lot was full. Between noon and 2 p.m. during the summer months, groups may have to wait up to an hour for the float tour.

operation was smaller than we had imagined and closed on Sunday.

We settled for a little café down the road in rural Keeseville that served farm-to-table fare. My apple-andCamembert sandwich hit the spot. Jeff dug into his herbaceous falafel, and the friendly staff happily scrambled up a couple of fresh eggs for Theo.

Unfortunately, the grilled cheese, made with red peppers, onions and parsley, was a little too gourmet for Mira. She enjoyed a bowl of locally made yogurt instead. We ate happily at a picnic table outside — until a feral cat jumped onto our table and started pawing at our food. Not exactly a zombie attack, but it drove us indoors.

After we finished eating, we rode 20 minutes north to Plattsburgh to visit a man-made wonder: Target.

The return ferry, from Plattsburgh to Grand Isle, was only 15 minutes and just as lovely as the morning ride. As we headed back home to Shelburne, Seb’s Snack Bar in South Hero called out with afternoon ice cream cones. It was a delicious end to a sweet adventure.

Where to eat:

We ate lunch at clover mead café & Farm store (933 mace Chasm rd., Keeseville, n y.) just a two-minute drive from Ausable Chasm. the tiny shop serves gourmet breakfasts, sandwiches and baked goods on friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. they also sell local produce and jams — and cheese and yogurt from north Country Creamery — from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., tuesday through Sunday. We brought home a tasty hunk of feta and some maple yogurt.

Ausable Brewing company (765 mace Chasm road, Keeseville, n y.), which opened last year, serves craft beers and sodas, plus thursday-night tacos and barbecue on weekends. it’s open on thursday and friday from 2 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 8 p.m.

Also nearby: essex, n y. is a cute town to explore if you’re taking the Charlotte ferry. there’s a small playground close to the ferry dock, and Essex ice cream café (2134 lakeshore road) offers delicious scoops, plus coffee drinks and sandwiches.

Noblewood Park in Willsboro (158 lakeshore Drive), just a five-minute drive from the essex ferry, has a large beach, perfect for a swim on a hot summer day.

mira testing the guardrails

Rainbow Falls

day-cations: dog Mountain

Odin, who was welcome to wander the gallery, carefully investigated some life-size dog statues. But they didn’t hold his interest for long. He soon found the bathroom, where he lapped up water straight from the toilet.

Thankfully, Ben the attendant wasn’t fazed. He even offered Odin a treat from the cookie jar by the register.

The nondenominational Dog Chapel, which we visited next, allows humans to memorialize their departed canine companions. Its stained-glass windows feature scenes of shared ice cream cones and pats on the head.

The Hunecks opened the chapel in 2000, and since then every inch of wall space, from the baseboards along the wooden floor to the edges of the high ceiling, has been plastered with photos, notes and heartfelt remembrances. Some read, “You were the best dog ever,” and “I miss you so much.” Others conveyed wishes for eternal belly rubs and endless games of fetch.

We sat in a pew bolstered on either side by dog statues while Elise babbled in my lap and Odin’s nails clicked on the wood floor. The overwhelming outpouring of dog love brought both Tristan and me to tears. I felt lucky to be visiting the chapel with Odin still by my side.

Soon our pup was standing in the open doorway, eager to explore the swimming ponds. Our thoughts turned to happier things, like walking the trails and playing in the sun. We left the chapel and found a picnic site, beside

a pond with tennis balls floating in it. Odin dove right in while we munched on salads and sandwiches, and Elise played by our feet on the blanket.

Half an hour later, a group of people and dogs emerged from the trails on the hill above us. We put away our lunch, stood and scooped up Elise so she wouldn’t be underfoot.

Our little girl squealed with delight as the new dogs joined us, sniffing, wrestling and chasing each other. Nobody interjected with commands or interfered with their games; the vibe was all about letting the dogs have a good time.

Odin, clearly the oldest of the bunch, quickly lost interest in the energetic play, so we headed farther up the hill on a mowed grass trail, through beautiful fields of blooming purple lupine. We hiked a short loop, ending back at the gallery.

Odin has spent countless hours accompanying us on our errands and adventures. He always seems content to be with us, even when the outings aren’t fun for him. It felt really nice to devote a day to his enjoyment.

As we drove back down the long driveway, I turned to look at Odin sitting next to Elise in the backseat. He was grinning ear to ear, his tongue hanging out of the side of his mouth. He had managed to get mud all over him, even on top of his head — and he couldn’t have been happier about it. K

Know before you go: dog mountain is free and open to people and their dogs daily, from dawn to dusk. there are hiking trails, swimming ponds and plenty of tennis balls on site. in the gallery you’ll find dog bowls and faucets. in the summer, the art gallery and gift shop are open Monday through saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. dog Mountain hosts its annual summer dog party on saturday, august 1, from noon to 4 p.m. for more information, visit dogmt.com.

dog mountain is all about the dogs. families with young children should be prepared for dogs running free. there is a picnic table next to the chapel and ample grassy spots for picnics, but be prepared to pack up quickly if dogs arrive on the scene.

Where to eat in st. Johnsbury:

Riley’s Fish shack (2165 portland street) serves burgers, chicken, fish and soft-serve ice cream, right down the road from dog Mountain. outdoor seating makes dining with fido a breeze.

Natural Provisions (537 railroad street) is a modern general store. this is the place to go if you forgot sunscreen or your water bottle. the deli in back makes delicious salads, sandwiches and desserts to go. don’t miss the kitchen-goods room full of colorful linens and gourmet products.

st. J Food co-op (490 portland street) is a health-food store with picnic provisions such as sausages, cheeses, breads, cold drinks and fresh fruit. there is also a bulk section for snacks like granola or peanut butter.

st. Johnsbury Farmers market, held on saturdays from May to october in the municipal parking lot on pearl street, offers goods from local farms and artisans, plus live music and authentic Jamaican food.

Also nearby:

The st. Johnsbury Welcome center (51 depot square) has visitor parking and a shady park with picnic tables and outlets for charging electronic gadgets. it also has city maps, tourist information, water and bathrooms with baby changing stations. Four seasons Park and Playground is located on the corner of Main street and Winter street.

The Fairbanks museum & Planetarium (1302 Main street) offers natural history exhibits for kids and adults, and an interactive kids’ room. a gift shop is well stocked with educational toys. find information on current exhibits and planetarium shows at fairbanksmuseum.org.

the art galleries at catamount Arts center (115 eastern avenue) are open to the public Monday through saturday. catch films and performances in the evening. find a calendar of events at catamountarts.org.

One of Huneck’s whimsical carvings

Sarah, Elise and Odin take a break

SPOTLIGHTS & LISTINGS BY ALISON NOVAK & BRETT STANCIU

Above and Beyond

Looking for a way to channel your kid’s competitive spirit? Teams of two tackle physical challenges during the KIDS ADVENTURE GAMES, a nationally touring race for young athletes ages 6-14. The scenic mountain course, which is kept under wraps until the day of the event, calls for kids to hike, run and mountain bike while maneuvering through zip lines, rope swings, climbing walls, mud pits and a giant Slip’N Slide. Parents and spectators cheer on the competitors, who use problem solving and teamwork to conquer the obstacles. They’re sure to cross the finish line sweaty, muddy and “with a huge sense of accomplishment,” says race founder Billy Mattison.

KIDS ADVENTURE GAMES: Racer check-in and optional skills clinic on Friday, July 10, noon-5 p.m. Race on Saturday, July 11, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Ages 6-14. $75 for each participant; free to watch; preregister teams of two by Tuesday, July 7. Info, 970-393-0145. kidsadventuregames.com

FRIDAY, JULY 3 CELEBRATE THE LAKE

The science center’s doors swing open with patriotic festivities and crafts, food for purchase, and a premier view of the fireworks. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 6-11 p.m. $20-30. Info, 864-1848.

THURSDAYS, JULY 2-30 SUMMERVALE

Live music, tastings, kids crafts and food-focused activities varying by week promise locavore fun in the sun. No pets. Burlington Intervale Center, 5:30-8 p.m. Free admission; cost of food and drink. Info, 660-0440.

SUNDAY, JULY 19

NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY

Got a sweet tooth?

Visitors learn the history and science of “the great American dessert” by handcranking their own frozen treats. Horse-drawn wagon rides and 19th-century games are the cherry on top. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

THURSDAY, JULY 30

TOM MURPHY IN ‘MURPHY’S LAW’

Solo slapstick comedy delights the whole family with unicycles, juggling and audience participation. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, 7 p.m. $20-43. Info, 760-4634.

COURTESY OF KIDS ADVENTURE GAMES

submit your August events for print by July 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

1 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Art in the Park: Fledgling creators head outside to paint, sculpt, draw and imagine. South Burlington Community Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Fun with crafts: Weekly projects put active hands to creating. Ages 4-10. Richmond Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 434-3036.

Teen Time: Bigger kids enjoy crafting galore through CD scratch art, tie-dye with sharpies and more. Ages 10-15. Winooski Memorial Library, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 655-6424.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: Mothers-to-be build strength, stamina, comfort and a stronger connection to their baby in this all-levels class. Evolution Prenatal and Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 5:45-7:15 p.m. $15 or $130 for 10class pass. Info, 864-9642.

chace mill Postnatal core class: New moms tone and shape their postpartum bodies. Babies welcome. Prenatal Method Studio, Burlington, 12:15-1:15 p.m. $15; $70 for 5-class pass; $75 for monthly unlimited pass. Info, 829-0211.

chace mill Prenatal Barre: Moms-to-be get a ballet-inspired workout. Prenatal Method Studio, Burlington, 7:30-8:30 a.m. & 5:30-6:30 p.m. $15; $70 for a 5-class pass; $75 for an unlimited monthly pass. Info, 829-0211.

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

community

Family Fun Night: This evening program features a rotating lineup of guests from a race-car driver to a magician. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

our own community Heroes: Kids meet their local protectors with a walk and visit to the police department. Grades 2-5. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6955.

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. colchester Farmers market: Rain or shine, local farmers, artisans, food vendors and musicians gather on the green. All ages. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

middlebury Farmers market: Crafts, cheeses, breads, veggies and more vie for spots in shoppers’ totes. Marble Works District, Middlebury, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 537-4754. Woodstock market on the Green: Fresh vegetables, farm eggs, local meats and cheeses, cut flowers, and seasonal fruits and berries represent the best of the growing season. Woodstock Village Green, 3-6 p.m. Free. Info, 457-3555.

Games

Legos for the Little ones: Builders fashion architecturally sound constructions. Ages 4-7. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

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

Library & Books

dcF Book discussion: Middleschoolers engage in a lively discussion about Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle by George Hagen. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Read to a dog: Adorable pups from Therapy Dogs of Vermont listen to read-aloud tails — er, tales. Ages 5 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister for event times. Info, 865-7216.

Read to Hank the Therapy dog: Summer book lovers share stories with this sweet retriever while little ones listen. Ages 4-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Preregistration suggested. Info, 264-5660. s is for superhero: Silly sounds in read-aloud stories steal center stage. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

superhero stories: Champion kids craft capes and masks. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Wednesday Wacktivity: Superhero-themed crafts and games change each week. Ages 5-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

movies

movie Night: Snacks are provided for bigscreen flicks. Call ahead for selection. Milton Public Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

music

city Hall Park concert series: Lunchtime musical performances in genres from folk to rock and bluegrass to country entertain al fresco diners. Burlington City Hall Park, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166.

Vermont symphony orchestra ‘spellbound!’ summer Tour: An outdoor concert featuring wizards, witches and trolls transports classicalmusic fans to Middle Earth. Mountain Top Inn, Chittenden, gates open for picnicking, 5:30 p.m; concert, 7:30 p.m. $31-36 per adult; free for children under 18 with advance adult ticket purchase; $12 for children at the gate. Info, 863-5966.

Nature & science

Wacky Wednesdays: Junior inventors design a hands-on solution to a different weekly challenges using simple materials, then test their results. Ages 6 and up. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 12:30 p.m. Free with museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for members, kids under 3 free. Info, 864-1848.

2 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

July 4th craft Workshop: Independence Day projects put small hands to work. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 12:151:15 p.m.

chace mill 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, 12:15-1:15 & 4:30-5:30 p.m. $15; $70 for 5-case pass; $75 for monthly unlimited pass. Info, 829-0211.

Essex La Leche League: Moms bring their little ones to a discussion of parenting and breastfeeding. First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 383-8544.

community

summervale: Live music, tastings, kids crafts and food-focused activities varying by week promise locavore fun in the sun. No pets. Burlington Intervale Center, 5:30-8 p.m. Free admission; cost of food and drink. Info, 660-0440.

Health & Fitness

Walk/Run Trail series: All ages and abilities break a sweat in a 5K open race, 3K walk/run or 1K kids run. Hard’ack, St. Albans, 6 p.m. $4-6; kids 1K is free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Library & Books

‘Be a Hero’ Projects: Enthusiastic school-age kids complete crafty community projects with different themes. Grades 1-5. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

‘Booked for Lunch’: Young listeners bring a lunch to eat while enjoying stories and a provided dessert. Grades K and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Booked for Lunch: A librarian entertains the lunch crowd with themed stories. Dessert is provided. Grades K and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, Free; preregister; bring a bag lunch. Info, 878-6956.

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.

LEGo Library: Builders fashion architecturally sound constructions. South Burlington Community Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Let’s Party at the Library!: Little book-lovers engage in crafts about different stories each week. Ages 3-6. Winooski Memorial Library, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 655-6424.

PJ storytime: Snuggle up in your pajamas for bedtime tales. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

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

music

Army Band Performance: The audience enjoys an evening of traditional patriotic songs and contemporary musical favorites. Vergennes City Park, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 338-3476.

Groovin’ on the Green: Shoppers bring blankets and chairs for an open-air concert, complete with face painting, temporary tattoos and clowning around. Maple Tree Place, Williston, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 646-5263. 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.

snow Farm Vineyard summer concert series: Weather permitting, crowds gather for a weekly rotation of classical, jazz, swing, bluegrass and rock. Food and drink available to purchase from various vendors. Snow Farm Vineyard, South Hero, picnicking begins at 5 p.m.; music starts at 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 372-9463.

Nature & science

discovery drop-in day camp: Young explorers ages 3-8 learn about the many ways nature changes throughout the year with games, activities, puppet shows and hikes. 3- and 4-year-olds must be accompanied by an adult. The Nature Museum at Grafton, 10 a.m.-noon, $8-10 per session. Info, 843-2111.

moonlit campfire: A flickering bonfire sets the scene for s’mores, a visit from a live owl and other nature activities. Shelburne Farms, 6:308:30 p.m. $5-6; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Raptors in Residence: The mysteries surrounding birds of prey are revealed as visitors come face-to-face with live owls and hawks. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 1-1:30 p.m. $5-8; free for children under 3. Info, 578-8013.

Wagon-Ride Wednesdays: Horse-drawn rides provide fun for the whole family. Admission includes all farm programs and activities. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $414; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

3 FRIDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 8:309:30 a.m.

community

Burlington Fireworks Train: Fourth of July revelers looking to avoid parking hassles arrive at the Burlington Waterfront via choo-choo. Train stops at Shelburne and South Burlington. Return train departs Burlington at 10:30 p.m. Charlotte Train Station, 5:15, 6:45 & 8:15 p.m. $15 per person. Info, 800-707-3530.

celebrate the Lake: The science center’s doors swing wide open with patriotic festivities and crafts, food for purchase, and a premier view of the fireworks. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 6-11 p.m. $20-30. Info, 864-1848.

The Big shaBANG: A cookout, lawn games and a front seat to Basin Harbor Club’s fireworks display makes for pre-Independence Day fun. Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Vergennes, 6:30 p.m. $15-25 for adults; $10 for children 12 and under. Info, 475-2022.

Food

ArtsRiot Truck stop Burlington: Families of foodies enjoy an eclectic array of local grub and live music during this hip block party. ArtsRiot, Burlington, 5 p.m. Free; cost for food. Info, 540-0406.

Five corners Farmers market: From natural meats to breads and wines, farmers share the bounty of the growing season at an outdoor exchange, complete with live entertainment and kids activities. Lincoln Place, Essex Junction, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 5cornersfarmersmarket@ gmail.com.

Hands-on History

in the early 19th century, the Ferrisburgh property that is now rokeby Museum was a prosperous Merino sheep farm and a stop on the underground railroad. young history buffs and their caregivers get a taste of the national Historic landmark’s rich past during FAmiLy FRidAys

Some activities focus on food; think butter churning, corn-muffin tasting and apple art. others explore animals, including birds, bats and sheep. While you’re on the property, explore its historic smokehouse and tourist cabin, and the underground railroad education Center, which tells the story of the abolitionist robinson family who lived on the site for nearly 200 years.

FAmiLy FRidAys: July 10-August 14, 10 a.m.-noon, at Rokeby Museum in Ferrisburgh. All ages. $3 per participant, in addition to $8-10 museum admission; free museum admission for children under 5. Info, 877-3406. rokeby.org

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Foodways Fridays: Visitors tour the heirloom garden, then watch how 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.

Richmond Farmers market: Vendors peddle maple iced tea, honey ice cream, vegan chocolates, just-picked produce and much more at this lively showcase of locavorism. All ages. Volunteers Green, Richmond, 3-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 343-9778.

Games

chess club: Game players have fun with the library’s sets. All ages but children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See July 1. shelburne open Gym: Tumbling tots burn energy on trampolines, balance beams, rings and more. Gymstar Gymnastics, Shelburne, 8:30 a.m. $3-6. Info, 985-8948.

Holidays

Brandon independence day celebration: Family fun kicks off on Friday with a food fest and street dance. Saturday festivities include karaoke, a pie-eating contest, children’s games, a 1 p.m. parade and afternoon music. Fireworks burst over the village at dusk. All ages. Central Park, Brandon, 6 p.m. Most events are free. Info, 247-6401.

Burlington independence day Waterfront celebration: Live bands and exciting activities — including an air show, family fun park and bounce house — set the scene for spectacular fireworks over Lake Champlain at 9:30 p.m. Downtown Burlington, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Free. Info, 864-0123.

montpelier independence day celebration: Patriots catch street entertainment, music and family yoga on the Statehouse lawn and a 6 p.m. parade. Downtown fills with bands and vendors before 9:30 p.m. fireworks. Downtown Montpelier, 3-9:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-9604.

Ticonderoga independence day celebration: History buffs celebrate America on the very ground where soldiers served to secure independence by watching reenactments and listening to patriotic music. Fort Ticonderoga, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $8-19.50; free for children under 4. Info, 518-585-2821.

Library & Books

Early Bird math: Young children and their caregivers put two and two together using interactive books, songs and games to explore arithmetic concepts. Ages 3-6. Richmond Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

music

Army Band Performance: The audience enjoys an evening of traditional patriotic songs and contemporary musical favorites, with an “1812 Overture” finale and fireworks. Battery Park, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 338-3476. city Hall Park concert series: See July 1. Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: Toe-tapping tunes captivate kiddies. Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 660-9346. snow Farm Vineyard summer concert series: See July 2, 5:30-8 p.m.

4 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

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.

Education

summer Naturalist Program: Hands-on exploration of the natural world — from bugs to trees — piques the curiosity of all ages. Mill Trail Property, Stowe, 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 253-7221.

Food

Burlington Farmers market: Producers and artisans offer 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.

Balance in Childhood and Adolescence

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.

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.

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

Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 1.

Rutland Farmers Market: Local vendors sell 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, 753-7269.

Shelburne Farmers Market: Musical entertainment adds cheer to this exchange of fruits, veggies, herbs, honey, maple syrup and more. All ages. Shelburne Village Green, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 482-4279.

Holidays

Brandon Independence Day Celebration: See July 3, 10 a.m.

Colchester Independence Day Viewing Party: Parade watchers celebrate on the library lawn. Watermelon is gratis! Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Essex Fourth of July Celebration: Patriotic revelers take a dip in the pool, dance to songs from the Contois School of Music Band and partake in face painting, balloon art and a bounce castle. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Maple Street Park, Essex Junction, 6 p.m. Free; cost for food and some activities. Info, 878-1375.

Old Fourth of July: Traditional holiday happenings feature flagmaking, hand-cranked ice cream, patriotic speeches and debates. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Rutland Fourth of July Celebration: Awardwinning fireworks at 9:45 p.m. cap Summer Smash 2015, which includes carnival-style concessions and the Stoney Roberts Demolition Derby. Gates open at 4 p.m. Vermont State Fairgrounds, Rutland, Free. Info, 775-5200.

Stowe Fourth of July Celebration: An oldfashioned shindig starts with marching music in the Moscow parade. Face painting, music, clowns and food in the village follow from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The fun picks up at Mayo Farm at 6 p.m., with fireworks at dusk. Various locations, Stowe, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 253-7321.

Ticonderoga Independence Day Celebration: See July 3.

Movies

Ben & Jerry’s Summer Outdoor Movie Festival: Cinema lovers bring blankets and chairs to watch a flick under the stars at dusk. Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Waterbury, Free. Info, 846-1500.

Music

Army Band Performance: See July 3, Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Je ersonville, 8 p.m. Free. Info, 338-3480.

Vermont Symphony Orchestra ‘Spellbound!’ Summer Tour: See July 1, Shelburne Farms, gates open for picnicking, 5:15 p.m.; concert, 7:30 p.m. $35-40 per adult.

Nature & Science

Bald Eagle Day: Admirers discover why the nation’s bird takes center stage. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free with price of admission, $11.50-13.50; children 3 and under free. Info, 359-5001, ext. 223.

Raptors in Residence: See July 2, 1-1:30 p.m.

5 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: Moms bring their pre-crawling kids to an all-levels flowing yoga class focused on bringing the body back to strength and alignment in a fun, nurturing environment. Evolution Prenatal and Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 12:15-1:30 p.m. $15; $130 for a 10-class pass. Info, 864-9642. Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 10-11:30 a.m.

Fairs & Festivals

Middlebury Festival on-the-Green Evening Program: Various performers — from the Bluegrass Gospel Project to Ray Vega —celebrate summer, with a lawn dance finale with the Vermont Jazz Ensemble on Saturday evening, July 11. Middlebury Recreation Park, 7-8:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 462-3555.

St. Albans Independence Day Celebration: The fun begins with the Great Race, a 3.1-mile run, 12-mile bike and 3-mile canoe race. Town celebrations continue with games in the park and a sparkling fireworks display at dusk. St. Albans Bay Park, 9:45 a.m. Info, 524-2415.

Food

Stowe Farmers Market: Live music, face painting and cooking demos complement an array of food and craft vendors. All ages. Stowe Farmers Market, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 472-8027.

Winooski Farmers Market: Local produce, farm goods, artisan crafts, kids activities and tunes come together on the banks of the Winooski River. Champlain Mill, Winooski, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, winooskimarket@gmail. com.

Health & Fitness

ChildLight Yoga for Kids: Young yogis come together to explore the beauty of new beginnings. Recommended for ages 3-6 with parents or caregivers. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-1:45 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Holidays

Ticonderoga Independence Day Celebration: See July 3.

Music

Music on the Porch Summer Concerts: Audiophiles listen to a wide selection of jazz, rock and blues. All ages. Green Mountain Co ee Visitor Center and Café, Waterbury, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 882-2700.

Vermont Symphony Orchestra ‘Spellbound!’ Summer Tour: See July 1, Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe, $30-35 per adult, free for children under 18 with advance adult ticket; $12 for children at the gate.

Nature & Science

My Sky: Astronomy enthusiasts learn about celestial objects in this 20-minute program geared toward kids ages 4-8. Arrive 15 minutes in advance of presentation. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 12:30 p.m. $3 per person; call to reserve tickets. Info, 748-2372.

Playgroups

6 MONDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1. Chace Mill Prenatal Barre: See July 1, 12:151:15 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

La Leche League: Moms and moms-to-be drop in for help with specific nursing questions and to connect with others. Babies and older children welcome. Vermont Department of Health, St. Johnsbury, 10:30 a.m. Free,. Info, 274-1023.

Pee Wee Pilates: New moms strengthen their cores with their babies in tow. Prenatal Method Studio, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15. Info, 646-206-0514.

Kids enjoy fun and games during these informal get-togethers, and caregivers connect with other local parents and peers. The groups are usually free and often include snacks, arts and crafts, or music. Contact the playgroup organizer or visit kidsvt.com for sitespecific details.

MONDAY

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

Charlotte Playgroup: Charlotte Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 764-5820.

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

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

WEDNESDAY

Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

Chace Mill New Mothers/Infants Playgroup: Prenatal Method Studio, 1:30-2:45 p.m. $3 suggested donation. Info, 829-0211.

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.

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

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

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.

Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: Evolution Prenatal and Family Yoga Center, second Thursday of every month, 10:2011:50 a.m. Free. Info, 864-9642.

Brandon Stories & Crafts: Brandon Free Public Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 247-8230.

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.

West Fairlee Playgroup: Westshire School, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

FRIDAY

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

Marshfield Open Gym: Jaquith Public Library, 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.

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

SATURDAY

Morrisville Baby Chat: Lamoille Family Center, second Saturday of every month, 1011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.

Community

Our Own Community Heroes: Kids meet local protectors with a walk and visit to the Essex Junction Fire Department. Grades 2-5. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6955.

Fairs & Festivals

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

Middlebury Festival on-the-Green Evening Program: See July 5, 7-10 p.m.

Middlebury Festival-on-the-Green BrownBag Program: Families pack a picnic lunch to enjoy during performances by a variety of local entertainers, from the No Strings Marionette Company to magician Tom Verner. Middlebury Recreation Park, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 462-3555.

Games

Burlington Chess Club: Strategic players make moves on a black-and-white board. Ages 9-13. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

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

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1. Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: Little musicians ages 24 months 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 3-6. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Summer Reading Program: Garden Heroes: Cooking projects and plant tending appeal to dedicated bookworms. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregistration required for certain workshops. Info, 893-4644.

Unmasking the Greek Gods: Rick Riordan’s The Lightning Thief sets the stage for a week of marvelous myths, games and book-inspired snacks. Middle school students. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See July 2, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

STEAM Mondays: Science, technology, engineering, art and math concepts are explored through hands-on activities and experiments. Grades K-5. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

7 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Heroic Crafting: Creative types make hero-themed projects. Ages 4-12. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See July 5, 10:45-11:55 a.m.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 4:15-5:30 p.m. & 4:155:30 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2.

Community

Sheriff’s Visit: An o cer and his K-9 pal share stories about how dogs do police work. Grand Isle Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 372-4797.

Education

Time-Travel Tuesdays: Kids of all ages learn what daily life was like in 1890 by helping to prepare seasonal meals, churn butter and do laundry the old-fashioned way. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $414; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Fairs & Festivals

Middlebury Festival on-the-Green Evening Program: See July 5, 7-10 p.m.

Middlebury Festival-on-the-Green BrownBag Program: See July 6, noon-1 p.m.

Games

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.

Putt n Play: Families take to the mini-golf links, then check out the bouncy house and face painting. Ages 3-12. Stowe Golf Park, 4-7 p.m. $7 for children ages 6-12; $3 for children under 6. Info, 253-9951.

Health & Fitness

Catamount Trail Running Series: Athletes of all ages and abilities choose between 2.5 and 5 kilometer courses — with a 10K option on the second Tuesday of each month — during this fun evening race. Catamount Outdoor Family Center, Williston, 6 p.m. $3-8; free for children under 8. Info, 879-6001.

Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3, 8:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Library & Books

Digging for Dinosaurs: Junior paleontologists poke into the distant past. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Fresh from the Garden: Small gardeners walk to the Summit Street garden to weed and water, then relish their harvest at the library. Grades 1 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:30 a.m.-noon, Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Gaming For Teens & Adults: Players of all skill levels engage in Magic: The Gathering 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.

Nature Walk with Mark Ferguson: Families explore a guided woods tour. Grades 1 and up. Waterbury Public Library, 1-2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

5 SUNDAY (CONTINUED)

7 TUESDAY (CONTINUED)

Read to a Dog: See July 1, 12:30 p.m.

Summer Reading Program: Crafts, stories and art projects appeal to dedicated bookworms. Ages 2-12. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Summer Story Time: Listeners of all ages delight in di erent stories each week. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Superhero Storytime: Listeners learn about high-flying adventures from A-Z and make their own masks. Ages 3-7. Richmond Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

Unmasking the Greek Gods: See July 6, 3-5 p.m.

Music

Children’s Sing-Along: Parents sip co ee while wee ones break into song with a local musician. Ages 5 and under. The Bees Knees, Morrisville, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 888-7889.

Drumming Circle: The whole family grooves to traditional tunes from Ghana. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, Free. Info, 264-5660. Preschool Music: Little ones dance and sing to a lively beat. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Nature & Science

Raptors in Residence: See July 2, 1-1:30 p.m. Summer Science: Bees: Kids draw a pollinator robot, create a humming instrument and make their own sweet book. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Fast Food

8 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Art in the Park: See July 1.

Comic Book Workshop: Junior graphic novelists create their own comic book. Ages 7-9. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1.

Chace Mill Postnatal Core Class: See July 1.

Chace Mill Prenatal Barre: See July 1.

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See July 1.

Community

Community Evenings at the Farm: Families bring a picnic or buy some farm-fresh fare, then settle on blankets for live music. Gates open for picnicking at 5:30 p.m. Shelburne Farms, 6:30 p.m. Free; burgers and salads available to purchase. Info, 985-8686.

Family Fun Night: See July 1.

Fairs & Festivals

Middlebury Festival on-the-Green Evening Program: See July 5, 7-10 p.m.

Middlebury Festival-on-the-Green BrownBag Program: See July 6, noon-1 p.m.

Food

Champlain Island Farmers Market: See July 1. Colchester Farmers Market: See July 1.

Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 1. Woodstock Market on the Green: See July 1.

Games

Chess Night: Kids take on peers in games of strategic thinking. Beginners welcome! Ages 6-12. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

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

Family Game Night: Players sit down for friendly competitions of Candy Land, checkers and Monopoly. Bring your own board or borrow from the library. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Library & Books

Favorite Heroes: Crafty youngsters fashion frames around their photo, collage or drawing. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Music & Movement With Ellie: Toddlers and preschoolers jump around to jolly tunes. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Read to a Dog: See July 1.

Read to Hank the Therapy Dog: See July 1.

Tween Times: Various craft and book activities keep the lively fun rolling. Ages 10-13. South Burlington Community Library, 2-3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Unmasking the Greek Gods: See July 6, 3-5 p.m.

Wednesday Crafty Afternoons: Kids dive into handwork happenings with di erent projects each week. Ages 7-11. Waterbury Public Library, 1-2:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

Talk about meals on wheels. THE LUNCHBOX FOOD TRUCK serves kids under 18 a rotating menu of free meals that showcase local produce. The summer lunch program and mobile learning kitchen hit the streets on June 15 and will roll through the Northeast Kingdom all summer long. From 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. the truck will set up shop in three towns — Barton on Wednesdays, Newport on Thursdays and Island Pond on Fridays. Taste tests, cooking demos and hands-on educational activities are also free. Meals for adults will also be available for purchase, with proceeds benefitting Green Mountain Farm-to-School.

LUNCHBOX FOOD TRUCK: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at Barton Public Library, Thursdays at Gardner Park in Newport and Fridays at Pavilion Park in Island Pond. All ages. Free. Info, 334-2044. greenmountainfarmtoschool.org

Wednesday Wacktivity: See July 1.

Music

City Hall Park Concert Series: See July 1.

Teddy Bear Picnic With the Swing Peepers: Matthew Witten and John Hadden sing Earth-friendly songs and tell rollicking stories to young listeners and their animal buddies. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. All ages. Maple Street Park, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Nature & Science

Wacky Wednesdays: See July 1.

9 THURSDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 12:151:15 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2.

Community

Summervale: See July 2.

Fairs & Festivals

Middlebury Festival on-the-Green Evening Program: See July 5, 7-10 p.m.

Middlebury Festival-on-the-Green BrownBag Program: See July 6, noon-1 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Walk/Run Trail Series: See July 2.

Library & Books

3rd & 4th Grade Parent child Book discussion: Spirited discussion focusses on Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillio. Snacks provided. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

‘Be a Hero’ Projects: See July 2.

‘Booked for Lunch’: See July 2.

children’s Literacy Book Giveaway: Young readers choose a new book, listen to stories, and play games. Bring a picnic lunch. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

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

colchester Lego club: See July 2. Lake monsters Power Players: Mighty baseball heroes share stories, sign autographs and give reading recommendations. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Ongoing Exhibits

EcHo LAKE AQUARiUm ANd sciENcE cENTER, BURLiNGToN

Info, 864-1848

smokey Bear & Woodsy owl: Home sweet Home: This traveling exhibit, created in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service, teaches young woodland stewards how to care for natural resources through on-the-job forest-ranger training. Every other Friday from 10 a.m. to noon the Burlington Fire Department teaches about preventing fires locally. Through September 13.

mULTiPLE LocATioNs, sToWE

Info, 253-8358

‘Exposed’: Outdoor sculpture of all types add beauty to a quaint ski town. July 11 through October 14.

moNTsHiRE mUsEUm

oF sciENcE, NoRWicH

Info, 649-2200

Prehistoric menagerie: Life-size sculptures of animals from the Cenozic Age — including a woolly mammoth, a tiny horse and a 7-foot-tall carnivore with the head of a warthog — transport visitors back in time. Through September 7.

sHELBURNE mUsEUm

Info, 985-3346

Walter Wick: Games, Gizmos & Toys in the Attic: This retrospective exhibition of the photographic illustrator and awardwinning coauthor of the I SPY children’s books, features large scale photographs, meticulous models and behind the scenes videos. Through July 5.

Lego my Library: A block party to celebrate summer gives kids something constructive to do. Preschool and up. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 2:30-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

music & movement for Babies: Babies and caregivers sing, finger play and have fun learning about rhythm and mobility. Swanton Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 868-7656.

Ninja invasion: Scavenger hunters track down ninjas nestled in the stacks and earn a prize.

South Burlington Community Library, 10 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Read to a dog: Book lovers choose stories to share with a furry friend. Ages 5-10. Fairfax Community Library, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free; preregister for 15-minute time slot. Info, 849-2420.

spanish musical Kids: See July 2. st. Albans Library Legos: Young building enthusiasts engage in creative construction with their peers. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Unmasking the Greek Gods: See July 6, 3-5 p.m.

movies

stories on The screen: Favorite stories come to life on the big screen. Call for movie title. South Burlington Community Library, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

music

Battery Park concert series: Listeners gaze out at Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks while swaying to summer tunes. Battery Park, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-2396.

Free summer concert series: Picnickers settle down for the evening with family-friendly bands. Old Schoolhouse Common Gazebo, Marshfield, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Groovin’ on the Green: See July 2. music for Preschoolers: See July 2. snow Farm Vineyard summer concert series: See July 2.

Nature & science

discovery drop-in day camp: See July 2. super Animals: Interactive animal demos and touchable artifacts make for a lively afternoon. Franklin Town Hall, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Theater

‘Alice in Wonderland’: Child actors charm the audience in this classic tale on stage. Vermont Children’s Theater, Lyndonville, 2 p.m. $5-10. Info, 626-5358.

10 FRIDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 8:309:30 a.m.

community

Burlington Fire Trucks at Echo: Fire prevention pros offer safety tips and open their truck doors for a tour. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free with $10.50-13.50 museum admission; free admission for children under 3. Info, 864-1848.

JULY CALENDAR

10 FRIDAY (CONTINUED)

Free Friday Nights at Wonderfeet: Young museum visitors explore interactive exhibits. Ages 3-8. Wonderfeet Kids’ Museum, Rutland, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 282-2678.

Friday Night Family Fun Series: Eclectic entertainers — including magicians, theater troupes, Irish musicians and jugglers — make for family-friendly fun at this weekly outdoor fête. Maple Street Park, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1375.

Education

Family Fridays at Rokeby Museum: Outdoor workshops touch on history, crafts and nature — with a di erent theme each week. All ages. (See spotlight on page 28.) Rokeby Museum, Ferrisburgh, 10 a.m.-noon. $3; free with $8-10 museum admission; free museum admission for children under 5. Info, 877-3406.

Fairs & Festivals

Middlebury Festival on-the-Green Evening Program: See July 5, 7-10 p.m.

Middlebury Festival-on-the-Green BrownBag Program: See July 6, noon-1 p.m.

Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival: Floating orbs transport people through the sky at a balloon-launch fest with plenty of entertainment and eats. Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, 4-7 p.m. Free to view the morning launches; $10 admission to evening festival events (free for kids under 12); $10 tethered rides; $275 hot-air balloon rides. Info, 253-7355, ext. 5538.

Waterbury Arts Fest: The streets are transformed into a lively outdoor gallery and fair with gourmet food, live music and goods from local artisans. Downtown Waterbury, 5:30-10 p.m. Free. Info, 496-6466.

Food

ArtsRiot Truck Stop Burlington: See July 3.

Baked Bean Supper: Hungry diners celebrate National Baked Bean Month with maple-sweetened legumes and hot dogs and spectacular salads. Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, Montpelier, 4-7 p.m. $6-$10. Info, (802) 223-2740.

Five Corners Farmers Market: See July 3.

Kids in the Kitchen: Vegan Coconut Lime Cupcakes: You put lime in the coconut and make a cupcake? Yes! Junior bakers discover the delights of vegan cooking. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per participant. Info, 863-2569.

Richmond Farmers Market: See July 3.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math: See July 3.

Essex Junction Drop-in Story Time: Babies, toddlers and preschoolers stop by for picture books and finger plays. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Marvelous Music with Robert: Youngsters sing along with the library’s own hero, Robert Resnik. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: Musician Matthew Witten helps kids start the day with tunes and tales of adventure. All ages. Brownell

Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Unmasking the Greek Gods: See July 6, 3-5 p.m.

Movies

Family Movie Night: Viewers admire a daring princess in this family-friendly flick. Popcorn and drinks provided. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music

Battery Park Concert Series: See July 9.

City Hall Park Concert Series: See July 1.

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See July 3.

Nature & Science

Bird Banding: Naturalists-in-training get a lesson in tagging wild, feathered creatures, learning skills including netting and data collection. Weather dependent. All ages. Green

Story Times

MONDAY

Essex Drop-In 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

South Burlington Tiny Tot Time: South Burlington Community Library, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

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

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

WEDNESDAY

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

Essex Drop-In Story Time: See Monday. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 7-11 a.m. $5 suggested donation. Info, 434-3068. Wild Animals: The Southern Vermont Natural History Museum presents an interactive show with live critters. Fairfax Community Library, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Theater

‘Alice in Wonderland’: See July 9.

Early-literacy skills get special attention during these read-aloud sessions. Some locations provide additional activities such as music, crafts or foreign-language instruction. Contact the story-time organizer or visit kidsvt.com for details.

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

FRIDAY

Crafsbury Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

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

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

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

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

Essex Free Preschool Story Time: Essex Free Library, first Wednesday of every month, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Essex Summer Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

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

Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

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.

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

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

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

THURSDAY

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

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

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

St. Albans Story Hour: See Monday.

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

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

Rock, Roll & Read Story Time: Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

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

South Burlington Story Time Adventures: South Burlington Community Library, 9:30-11 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.

Tot Storytime: Fairfax Community Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Waterbury Preschool Story Time: Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. No preschool July 3. Info, 244-7036.

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 Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Franklin Story Time: Haston Library, first Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

St. Johnsbury Story Time: See Friday, first Saturday of every month.

Swanton Story Hour: See Wednesday. 10:30 a.m.

11 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Making Lip Balms

From the Garden: Kids make their own salves from plants and learn bee lore. Gardener’s Supply, Williston, 10-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 658-2433.

Baby & Maternity

Chace Mill Postnatal Core Class: See July 1, 9-10 a.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2, 10:3011:30 a.m.

Community

Classic Car Show: Classic and antique vehicles delight devotees of all ages. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Education

Summer Naturalist Program: See July 4.

Fairs & Festivals

Discover the Heart of the Islands: Open Farm & Studio Tour: More than 50 artisans and farmers open their doors for in-depth tours. (See spotlight on page 41.) All ages. Various locations, Grand Isle, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 372-6680.

French Heritage Day: Revelers celebrate the area’s French-Canadian heritage with reenactments, music, fiddling, stories, step dancing, French food and traditional crafts, children’s games and more. Winooski Falls, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 388-7951.

Middlebury Festival on-the-Green Evening Program: See July 5, 7-10 p.m.

Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival: See July 10, 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Waterbury Arts Fest: See July 10, 10 a.m.4 p.m.

Food

Burlington Farmers Market: See July 4. Champlain Island Farmers Market: See July 4.

Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 1.

Rutland Farmers Market: See July 4.

Shelburne Farmers Market: See July 4.

Health & Fitness

Kids Adventure Games: Teams of two kids ages 6-14 navigate outdoor obstacles including zip lines, climbing walls and mud pits as parents and spectators cheer them on. (See spotlight on page 26.) Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free to watch; $75 per person to participate; preregister by July 7. Info, 970-401-3804.

Super Hooper: Hula hoop happiness happens through lessons and group games. South Burlington Community Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Movies

Ben & Jerry’s Summer Outdoor Movie Festival: See July 4.

See

11 sATuRdAY (continued)

music

Battery Park concert series: See July 9. Vermont symphony orchestra ‘spellbound!’ summer Tour: See July 1, Three Stallion Inn, Randolph, $15-20 per adult; $5 per child at the gate. Info, 863-5966.

Nature & science

Bird monitoring Walk: Beginner and experienced birders take a walk in the woods, identifying different species and gathering data. All ages. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 7-9 a.m. Free; donations welcome. Info, 434-3068.

my sky: See July 5.

Theater

‘Alice in Wonderland’: See July 9, 2 & 7 p.m.

12 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See July 5.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 10-11:30 a.m.

Fairs & Festivals

discover the Heart of the islands: open Farm & studio Tour: See July 11.

stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival: See July 10, 6:30 a.m.

Food

Lacto-Fermented sodas: Junior mixologists make fizzy sodas that are healthy, too. Ages 3 and up. City Market, Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9757.

stowe Farmers market: See July 5.

Winooski Farmers market: See July 5.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See July 1.

Library & Books

Read to a dog: See July 1, 2 p.m.

music

Battery Park concert series: See July 9. music on the Porch summer concerts: See July 5.

Nature & science

Butterfly & Bug Walk: Aspiring naturalists of all ages explore fields and forest while learning about small flying creatures. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; donations accepted. Info, 434-2167.

my sky: See July 5.

sundays for Fledglings: Junior birders learn all about feathers and flying through observation, research and goofing around. Ages 5-9; siblings welcome. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-2:45 p.m. Regular museum admission, $3.50-7; preregister. Info, 434-2167.

Theater

Bread & Puppet Performance: The renowned theatrical company performs new works

following a tour of the museum’s puppets, masks and paintings at 1 p.m. Bread and Puppet Museum, Glover, 2 p.m. $10 suggested donation. Info, 525-3031.

13 MONDAY

Arts & crafts

Art studio: Avid artists express themselves with creative projects. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, grades K-2, 10 a.m.; grades 3-6, 11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Tween Night: Teens-in-training grab a friend for tye-dying fun! Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1. chace mill Prenatal Barre: See July 1, 12:151:15 p.m.

chace mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2, 5:306:30 p.m.

Pee Wee Pilates: See July 6.

Games

Burlington chess club: See July 6. chess club: See July 3, 4-5 p.m.

Tabletop Games: Players share their favorite game or choose one from the library’s supply. Snacks provided. Ages 5 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See July 1. shelburne open Gym: See July 3.

Library & Books

Burlington stories With megan: See July 6. meet a Water Rescue dog: Kids meet a trained pooch and marvel at her skills. Grades 1 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 7-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956. music with Lesley Grant: Little dancers and singers make music with a local songstress. Ages 18 months-4 years. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. Essex Junction superhero Training: Fledgling caped crusaders hone their special skills. Grades 1-5. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-2:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

music

music for Preschoolers: See July 2, 11 a.m.

Nature & science

sTEAm mondays: See July 6.

14 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

create Your own comics: Cartoon lovers learn techniques to construct their own paneled scenes. Ages 11 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Heroic crafting: See July 7.

Baby & maternity

Burlington La Leche League: New moms bring their questions to a breastfeeding support group. Babies and older children welcome. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 985-8228.

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See July 5, 10:4511:55 a.m.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 4:15-5:30 p.m. & 4:15-5:30 p.m.

chace mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2.

community

Fire department: Community helpers tell stories at the firehouse and give a tour of their truck. Grand Isle Free Library, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 372-4797.

Recycle Heroes: Green-minded kiddos get smart to sustainability through games indoors and out. Grades 2-5 Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

dance

Hooping with Anna: Movers and groovers learn new hula-hooping choreography. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Games

Putt n Play: See July 7.

Health & Fitness

catamount Trail Running series: See July 7. shelburne open Gym: See July 3, 8:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Trail Running series: See July 7.

Library & Books

create Your own Fairy House: Kids construct tiny abodes to enhance the library’s fairy garden. Pre-K-grade 2. Preregister. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See July 7. Read to a dog: See July 1, 12:30 p.m. summer story Time: See July 7.

movies

Family movie Night: Snuggle in for popcorn and a family-themed flick. Richmond Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Info, 434-3036. stories on The screen: See July 9.

music

children’s sing-Along: See July 7. Preschool music: See July 7.

Nature & science

story Time in the Nestlings Nook: Stories about birds are followed by a nature walk, crafts or music, depending on the weather. Intended for preschoolers, but all ages welcome. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free with museum admission, $3.50-7. Info, 434-2167.

Theater

‘The Patchwork Girl of oz:’ An original musical with performers age 6-15 mesmerizes the

audience. Volunteers Green, Richmond, noon. Free. Info, 434-3036.

15 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Art in the Park: See July 1. comics, colors & Everyday super Powers: Junior graphic novelists create a single-sheet comic book. Grades 3-5. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 11 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Recycled owls: Hoot, hoot! Creative kids make their own winged creatures from salvaged materials. Ages 8 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1. chace mill Postnatal core class: See July 1. chace mill Prenatal Barre: See July 1. montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See July 1.

community

community Evenings at the Farm: See July 8. community Heroes with marshfield Fireman: Whee! Little ones climb into the big truck and visit with a fireman for action-packed stories. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Food champlain island Farmers market: See July 1. colchester Farmers market: See July 1. middlebury Farmers market: See July 1. Woodstock market on the Green: See July 1.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See July 1.

Library & Books

colchester Pajama story Time: Small ones curl 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 July 1.

Read to Hank the Therapy dog: See July 1. Reading Buddies: Teen mentors while away an hour reading with youngsters. Bring a favorite book if you want. Grades K-5. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Fairfax superhero Training: Fantasy fans put on their capes and masks for a morning of hero-themed activities. Ages 3 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 849-2420.

milton superhero Training: Extraordinary girls and boys have fun with capes and capers. Ages 4-6. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Wednesday crafty Afternoons: See July 8. Wednesday Wacktivity: See July 1.

movies

marshfield Family-Themed movies: A wholesome flick entertains viewers of all ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Music

City Hall Park Concert Series: See July 1.

Craftsbury Chamber Players

Mini-Concerts: Little ones take in classical compositions with their adult companions. All ages.

UVM Recital Hall, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 800-639-3443.

Movies

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

Introduction to Fiddle: Aspiring strings players get a no-charge lesson. Burlington Violin Shop, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Preregistration suggested. Info, 223-8945.

Nature & Science

Wacky Wednesdays: See July 1.

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.

Theater

‘The Patchwork Girl of Oz’: The Very Merry Theatre entertains on the library lawn, while young fans munch free bagged lunches. Ages 5 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

16

THURSDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 12:151:15 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2.

Community

Cardboard-Box Parade: Youngsters dressed as storybook heroes or wearing a decorated cardboard box meet at the top of College Street for a mirthful march to City Hall Park. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Firefighters to the Rescue!: Whee! Sirens sing for a firehouse tour. Franklin Fire Department, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Summervale: See July 2.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Walk/Run Trail Series: See July 2.

Library & Books

‘Be a Hero’ Projects: See July 2.

‘Booked for Lunch’: See July 2.

Colchester Lego Club: See July 2.

Cool Chemists: Young scientists split soda bottles, separate oxygen and hydrogen and scrutinize polymers. Ages 6-12. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Dorothy Canfield Fisher Book Discussion: Laura Fitzgerald’s The Egg is at the heart of a spirited conversation. Snack provided. Grades 4-8. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Lego My Library: See July 9.

Spanish Musical Kids: See July 2. Super Reptiles: Curious kids see snakes and a bearded dragon up close. South Burlington Community Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 652-7080.

Movie Night: A family film features an unlikely hero. Snacks and drinks provided. Fairfax Community Library, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Music

Craftsbury Chamber Players Mini-Concerts: Small music

lovers experience an excerpt of the group’s evening concert, with selections and commentary geared toward young audiences. Hardwick Town House, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 800-639-3443.

Free Summer Concert Series: See July 9.

Groovin’ on the Green: See July 2.

Music for Preschoolers: See July 2.

Snow Farm Vineyard Summer Concert Series: See July 2.

Nature & Science

Discovery Drop-In Day Camp: See July 2.

Down by the River Preschool Program: Naturalists-in-training grab a net and head to the Huntington River to discover what lurks under the rocks and mud. Ages 3-5. Meet at the sugarhouse parking area. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

17 FRIDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 8:309:30 a.m.

Community

Free Friday Nights at Wonderfeet: See July 10. Friday Night Family Fun Series: See July 10.

Education

Family Fridays at Rokeby Museum: See July 10.

Super Animals: Interactive critter demos and touchable artifacts make for a lively afternoon. Ages 5-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Food

ArtsRiot Truck Stop Burlington: See July 3.

Five Corners Farmers Market: See July 3. Richmond Farmers Market: See July 3.

Games

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.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1. Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math: See July 3. Essex Junction Drop-in Story Time: See July 10.

JULY 6-JULY

JULY 13-JULY 17

JULY 20-JULY 24

JULY 27-JULY 31

Fairies

AUGUST 3-AUGUST 7

AUGUST 10-AUGUST 14

AUGUST 17-AUGUST 21 Dynamite

AUGUST

Step, Ball, Change

new york state originals are all about tap. the new york City-based dance troupe, founded in 1999, runs a summer intensive in Burlington for youngsters ages 9 to 22. the 50 to 75 dancers chosen through video auditions spend a week in the Queen City, taking rigorous classes taught by professional tappers. their program culminates in the TAP Kids sHoWcAsE sPEc-TAP-ULAR, 75 minutes of original choreography accompanied by a live band. whether your child yearns to dance professionally or simply likes to watch the action, this show is sure to get their toes you-know-what-ing.

17 FRidAy (Continued)

Heroes in Nature: Professor Fizzywig and his puppets perform, followed by a science project with educator Kristen Littlefield. Ages 3-10. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036. marvelous music with Robert: See July 10.

music

city Hall Park concert series: See July 1. craftsbury chamber Players mini-concerts: See July 16.

Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See July 3.

Nature & science

Fizzy Fest: Sweet bubbly sodas steal the show this weekend. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m. Free with museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for children under 2. Info, 864-1848. seeking Reptiles and Amphibians: Young naturalists put on their mud boots and explore local creeks for crawling critters. Barlow Street Community Center, St. Albans, 10 a.m.-noon. $15-20.

Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

18 SATURDAY

Baby & maternity

chace mill Postnatal core class: See July 1, 9-10 a.m.

chace mill Prenatal yoga: See July 2, 10:3011:30 a.m.

colchester Baby & Toddler social: Families with children age 3 and under meet others and enjoy music with Ellie, prizes and snacks. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, noon-2 p.m. Free; preregister at colchestervt.gov/library. Info, 264-5660.

community

Essex Junction Block Party & street dance: Summer revelers groove, while enjoying a variety of food vendors and kids’ activities. Lincoln Place, Essex Junction, 5-10 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4778.

dance

Tap Kids showcase sPEc-TAP-ULAR: Some of the country’s best young tappers, ranging in age from 9 to 22, take to the stage in this rousing celebration of dance. (See spotlight above.)

Black Box, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. $25, plus processing fee. Info, 914-374-0066.

Education

summer Naturalist Program: See July 4.

TAP Kids sHoWcAsE sPEc-TAP-ULAR: Saturday, July 18, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., at Main Street Landing’s Black Box Theater in Burlington. All ages. $25. Info, 914-374-0066. nystage.com/tap-kidssummer-intensive.html.

Fairs & Festivals

do Good Fest: Food trucks, kids activities, a village showcasing local nonprofits and live music make for a family-friendly celebration. National Life Group, Montpelier, gates, 2:30 p.m.; festival, 3-9 p.m. $10 parking fee before 5 p.m.; $20 after 5 p.m.; benefits Cancer Patient Fund. Info, info@dogoodfest.com.

Fairy House Festival with Tracy Kane: Wee ones wearing whimsical wings meet the author of the Fairy House books, marvel at the Homestead’s new miniature village and make a tiny dwelling. Registration required by July 12. Justin Morrill Homestead, Strafford Village, 1-3 p.m. $5-10. Info, 765-4288.

stars & stripes Parade: Festival floats roll through town. Music in the park caps off the day of festivities. All ages. Powers Park, Lyndonville, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free. Info, 626-9696.

Food

Burlington Farmers market: See July 4. champlain island Farmers market: See July 4. middlebury Farmers market: See July 1. Rutland Farmers market: See July 4. shelburne Farmers market: See July 4.

Games

scavenger Hunt: Treasure seekers drop in to the library to hunt for prizes. Fairfax Community Library, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Health & Fitness

Kids Triathlon: Young athletes test their mettle in a three-part race with swimming, biking and running. Kids are separated by age and gender. Ages 4-11. St. Albans City Pool, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $22-28; preregister. Info, 524-1550, ext. 266.

Movies

Ben & Jerry’s Summer Outdoor Movie Festival: See July 4.

Music

Buskathon & Instrument Petting Zoo: Young musicians perform to raise money for a scholarship fund while folks of all ages check out di erent-size fiddles. Preregister for busking participation. Burlington Violin Shop, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 223-8945.

Nature & Science

Fizzy Fest: See July 17.

My Sky: See July 5.

19 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See July 5. Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 10-11:30 a.m.

Food

National Ice Cream Day: Got a sweet tooth? Visitors learn the history and science of “the great American dessert” by hand-cranking their own frozen treats. Horse-drawn wagon rides and 19th-century games are the cherry on top. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Stowe Farmers Market: See July 5. Winooski Farmers Market: See July 5.

Health & Fitness

Champs Challenge for Cystic Fibrosis: Active types choose from a scenic eight- or 40-mile bike ride or a 5K walk/run, followed by a barbecue and ra e. Basin Harbor Club, Vergennes, 8 a.m. Funds raised support grants to help people with cystic fibrosis improve their health through physical activity; preregister. Info, 310-5983.

ChildLight Yoga for Kids: See July 5. Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Library & Books

Read to a Dog: See July 1, 2 p.m.

Music

Music on the Porch Summer Concerts: See July 5.

Nature & Science

My Sky: See July 5.

Theater

Bread & Puppet Performance: See July 12.

Circuspalooza: Aerial artists pull o fanciful feats under the big top while kids take part in carnival games and activities galore. All ages. Shelburne Museum, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular museum admission, $7-24; Free for children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

20 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

DIY Metal Art: Junior designers form wire-sculpture baskets and use nail polish and washers to make medallions. Ages 11 and up.

Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Tween Night: See July 13.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1.

Dance

Hooping with Anna: See July 14.

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

Education

LCATV Child Producers Workshop: Directors-in-training get techy and complete a short project. Ages 8-9. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Food

Chace Mill Prenatal Barre: See July 1, 12:151:15 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2, 5:30- 6:30 p.m.

Pee Wee Pilates: See July 6.

Community

Our Own Community Heroes: Kids visit Essex Rescue to meet local protectors. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-2:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6957.

Games

Burlington Chess Club: See July 6.

Chess Club: See July 3, 4-5 p.m.

Milton Lego Club: See July 6. 3:30-5 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1. Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See July 6. 10-10:30 a.m.

Burlington Stories With Megan: See July 6.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See July 2, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

STEAM Mondays: See July 6.

21 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Heroic Crafting: See July 7.

Baby & Maternity

Breastfeeding Cafe: Moms nurse their babies, chat and pose questions to a certified lactation consultant. Pregnant women, dads and siblings welcome. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 349-3825.

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See July 5, 10:4511:55 a.m.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 4:15-5:30 p.m. & 4:15-5:30 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2.

Community

Meet Smokey Bear & Woodsy Owl: These nature-dwelling characters chat about forestry and lead craft projects, too. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m. Free with museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for children under 2. Info, 864-1848.

Empanadas Three Ways: Junior chefs and their adult helpers prepare savory bite-size Cuban appetizers. Ages 8 and up. McClure Multigenerational Center, Burlington, 5-7 p.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9757.

Games

Family Games: Kids and their caregivers compete at tabletop fun. Grand Isle Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 372-4797. Putt ‘n Play: See July 7.

Health & Fitness

Catamount Trail Running Series: See July 7.

Essex Open Gym: See July 1. Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3, 8:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Trail Running Series: See July 7.

Library & Books

Fun With Mr. K: Science-minded kids learn about pollinators through touchable collections and technology. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See July 7.

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

Read to a Dog: See July 1, 12:30 p.m.

Summer Story Time: See July 7.

Music

Children’s Sing-Along: See July 7.

Owl’s Head Music Night: Berry pickers groove to local bands while gathering nature’s little treasures. Owl’s Head Blueberry Farm, Richmond, 6-7:30 p.m. Two-quart minimum blueberry purchase for entry. Info, 434-3387.

Preschool Music: See July 7.

22 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Art in the Park: See July 1.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1.

Chace Mill Postnatal Core Class: See July 1. Chace Mill Prenatal Barre: See July 1.

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See July 1.

Community

Animal Heroes: Clara the Therapy Dog struts her stu for questioning kids. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581. Community Evenings at the Farm: See July 8.

Amy LePage-Hansen

Pregnancy, Birth and Motherhood

Holistic, Empowering Support

* Prenatal Therapeutic Yoga, Postnatal Yoga

* Partner Prenatal Workshops

* Empowered Childbirth Education

* Private Birth Preparation Sessions

* Postpartum and Beyond Self-Care

amy.emergeyoga@gmail.com

802-778-0300 • www.emergeyoga.net

JULY CALENDAR

22 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)

Family Fun Night: See July 1.

Food

Champlain Island Farmers Market: See July 1.

Colchester Farmers Market: See July 1.

Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 1.

Woodstock Market on the Green: See July 1.

Games

Legos for the Little Ones: See July 1.

Live-Action Role Playing: Aspiring actors develop their character through theatrics. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Library & Books

Nature’s Superheroes: A “Professor Fizzywig” puppet show and hands-on science activities enchants kids of all ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

PERFORMING ARTS CAMP

Read to a Dog: See July 1.

Read to Hank the Therapy Dog: See July 1.

Reading Buddies: See July 15.

Wednesday Crafty Afternoons: See July 8.

Wednesday Wacktivity: See July 1.

‘Wizard of Oz’ Storytime with St. Michael’s Playhouse: Listeners click their heels together as lively actors read this classic story and sing show tunes. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

Movies

Family Movie Night: See July 14. Movie Night: See July 1.

Music

City Hall Park Concert Series: See July 1. Craftsbury Chamber Players Mini-Concerts: See July 15.

Nature & Science

Bug Walk: Creepy-crawly fans grab their nets and go for a stroll in search of insects. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. $3-5. Info, 229-6206.

Moth Night: Multitudes of moths visit the light station for a marvelous nighttime show, celebrating National Moth Week. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 9-11 p.m. $3-5. Info, 229-6206.

Wacky Wednesdays: See July 1.

23 THURSDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 12:151:15 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2.

Community

Local Heroes Graveyard Walk: Cemetery tours shed light on notable names from the past. Ages 10-12. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Summervale: See July 2.

Health & Fitness

Walk/Run Trail Series: See July 2.

Library & Books

‘Be a Hero’ Projects: See July 2.

‘Booked for Lunch’: See July 2.

Cleo the Therapy Dog Visit: See July 9.

Colchester Lego Club: See July 2.

Food

ArtsRiot Truck Stop Burlington: See July 3.

See Dr. First videos

“First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org

Cool Chemists: See July 16, Franklin Town Hall, 2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 285-6505.

Lego My Library: See July 9.

Music & Movement for Babies: See July 9.

POWerful Books Giveaway: Summer readers soak up scintillating stories and choose a new book to bring home. Ages 5-8. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 865-7216.

Silly Sidekicks: Recycled materials get a second life as creative projects. South Burlington Community Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Movies

Middle School Books-to-Film Discussion: Bookworms read Ella Enchanted by Gail Levine in advance, then watch the big-screen version. Snacks provided. Milton Public Library, 6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Music

Free Summer Concert Series: See July 9.

Groovin’ on the Green: See July 2.

Music for Preschoolers: See July 2.

Snow Farm Vineyard Summer Concert Series: See July 2.

Nature & Science

Discovery Drop-In Day Camp: See July 2.

Theater

‘Fiddler on the Roof’: Young actors mesmerize the audience in this beloved historic show. Vermont Children’s Theater, Lyndonville, 7 p.m. $5-10. Info, 626-5358.

Summer Encore Theater Presents: An original play, Who Will Save Colchester?, written and performed by students in grades 7-12, highlights a local hero. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

24 FRIDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 8:309:30 a.m.

Community

Burlington Fire Trucks at Echo: See July 10.

Free Friday Nights at Wonderfeet: See July 10.

Friday Night Family Fun Series: See July 10.

Education

Family Fridays at Rokeby Museum: See July 10.

Five Corners Farmers Market: See July 3.

Richmond Farmers Market: See July 3.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3.

Library & Books

Axis & Allies: War at Sea: Teens play a World War II game of strategy using battleships, air fleets and submarines to decide the fate of the world. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Early Bird Math: See July 3.

Marvelous Music with Robert: See July 10.

Page to Stage: ‘The Day the Crayons Quit’: Budding thespians rehearse this silly, awardwinning story. Grades 1-5. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3:30 p.m.; performance, 3:15 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Vermont Lake Monsters: Our own local heroes read stories and sign your memorabilia. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Movies

Teen Movie: Jackie Robinson is featured in this film about breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:40 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music

City Hall Park Concert Series: See July 1.

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See July 3.

Nature & Science

Bats in the Barn: Nocturnal flyers take center stage with a colorful slideshow and an evening flight from the Farm Barn. Shelburne Farms, 7:30-9 p.m. $5-7; preregister. Info, 985-8686. Cool Chemists: See July 16, Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Theater

‘Fiddler on the Roof’: See July 23.

25 SATURDAY

Baby & Maternity

Chace Mill Postnatal Core Class: See July 1, 910 a.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2, 10:3011:30 a.m.

Dance

She Who Walks in Moonlight: Dancers host a night of myths, stories and rituals during this lunar celebration. North End Studio, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10. Info, 860-3349.

Education

Summer Naturalist Program: See July 4.

Food

Burlington Farmers market: See July 4. champlain island Farmers market: See July 4. middlebury Farmers market: See July 1. Rutland Farmers market: See July 4.

shelburne Farmers market: See July 4.

Health & Fitness

Parents Night out: Adults looking for some alone time drop off their young yogis for dancing, game playing, pizza eating and relaxation activities with different themes each month.

Ages 4-11. Evolution Prenatal and Family Yoga Center, Burlington, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $25 for one child; $15 for siblings; preregister. Info, 864-9643.

Library & Books

create music with Bob Brookens: The littlest musicians beat the drums during this rollicking hour. Ages 18 months-4 years. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

movies

Ben & Jerry’s summer outdoor movie Festival: See July 4.

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, 7:30-8:30 a.m. Free; donations welcome. Info, 434-2167.

Garden Tea Party at the inn: Pinkies up! Tea time follows a treasure hunt and exploration of the picturesque gardens. Shelburne Farms, 1-3 p.m. $5-8; under 3 free; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Green mountain draft Horse Field day: Onlookers discover the true meaning of “horsepower” as they watch plowing, haying and logging in action. Shelburne Farms, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $5-8; free for children under 2; $8 per person for horse and wagon tour. Info, 985-8686.

my sky: See July 5.

Theater

‘Fiddler on the Roof’: See July 23.

26 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Postnatal yoga: See July 5. Burlington Prenatal yoga: See July 1, 10-11:30

a.m.

Food

stowe Farmers market: See July 5.

Winooski Farmers market: See July 5.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See July 1.

Library & Books

Read to a dog: See July 1, 2 p.m.

music

music on the Porch summer concerts: See July 5.

Nature & science

Hay day: Fledgling farmers learn about 19thcentury haying techniques while enjoying horse-drawn wagon rides, rope-making demonstrations and penny-in-the-haystack games.

Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

my sky: See July 5.

sundays for Fledglings: See July 12.

Theater

Bread & Puppet Performance: See July 12.

‘Fiddler on the Roof’: See July 23.

Come On In

no need to hop on a plane for this island adventure. More than 50 small farms, galleries and art studios welcome visitors at discoVER THE HEaRT oF THE isLaNds, a weekend celebration all over the champlain islands. greet goat kids and alpacas at yellow dog farm, where artisans hand-spin yarn from natural fibers. stop by across the grain studio for pottery demos. stroll the saturday farmers market on route 2 in grand isle, then pop over to Health Hero farm along west shore road to meet the cows and peep at the produce.

discoVER THE HEaRT oF THE isLaNds: Saturday and Sunday, July 11 and 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at multiple locations in Grand Isle County. All ages. Free. Info, 378-4591. openfarmandstudio.com

SHELBURNE MUSEUM

27 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Art Studio: See July 13.

Tween Night: See July 13.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1.

Chace Mill Prenatal Barre: See July 1, 12:151:15 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Pee Wee Pilates: See July 6.

Games

Burlington Chess Club: See July 6.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3.

Library & Books

Comic Book Swap: Comic lovers trade items from their stash with other fans. Milton Public Library, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See July 2, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

STEAM Mondays: See July 6.

28 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Heroic Crafting: See July 7.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: See July 5, 10:4511:55 a.m.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 4:155:30 p.m., 4:15-5:30 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2.

Community

Meet Smokey Bear & Woodsy Owl: See July 21.

Games

Putt ‘n Play: See July 7.

Health & Fitness

Catamount Trail Running Series: See July 7.

Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3. 8:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Trail Running Series: See July 7.

Library & Books

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See July 7. Read to a Dog: See July 1, 12:30 p.m.

Summer Story Time: See July 7.

Superheroes Who Provide Our Food: Beekeeper Mr. K. bursts open a hive for a sweet view of honey happenings. Thatcher Brook School. Ages 4 and up. Waterbury Public Library, 11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.

Music

Children’s Sing-Along: See July 7.

Owl’s Head Music Night: See July 21.

Preschool Music: See July 7.

Rockin Ron the Friendly Pirate: The swashbuckling musician mesmerizes the crowd with a musical tale about Samuel Bellamy, Robin Hood of the Sea. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Nature & Science

Bats!: Local bat rescuers share their work, followed by a watchful, guided walk. All ages. Fairfax Community Library, 7-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Theater

‘Swimmy’: A multimedia production of the Leo Lionni tale uses shadow puppets, projections and music by Debussy. Ages 3-12. Richmond Free Library, 1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

29 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Art in the Park: See July 1.

Superhero Scratch Art: Young artists festoon their photos. Bring a picture of yourself. Ages 8 and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1.

Chace Mill Postnatal Core Class: See July 1.

Chace Mill Prenatal Barre: See July 1.

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See July 1.

Community

Community Evenings at the Farm: See July 8.

Food

Champlain Island Farmers Market: See July 1. Colchester Farmers Market: See July 1.

Middlebury Farmers Market: See July 1. Woodstock Market on the Green: See July 1.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1.

Library & Books

Read to a Dog: See July 1. Read to Hank the Therapy Dog: See July 1. Reading Buddies: See July 15.

Summer Reading Series Grand Finale: Bookenthusiasts dressed as a beloved character have a blast with games and refreshments. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

Tween Times: See July 8.

Wednesday Crafty Afternoons: See July 8.

Wednesday Wacktivity: See July 1.

Movies

LCATV Young Producers Workshop: Aspiring filmmakers create their own stories, then learn how to animate them. Ages 8-9. Milton Public Library, 1:30-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Music

City Hall Park Concert Series: See July 1.

Craftsbury Chamber Players Mini-Concerts: See July 15.

Terrific Trad Camp Showcase: Campers and instructors from this musical summer program

get the crowd cheering with song and dance. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Nature & Science

Wacky Wednesdays: See July 1.

30 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

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

Cartooning Workshop: Kids dream up original characters and draw their own strips. Ages 8 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 10-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 12:151:15 p.m.

Chace Mill Prenatal Yoga: See July 2.

Community

Summervale: See July 2.

Education

Superheroes Who Provide Our Food: Bees!: Apiarists admire an opened hive and then learn some fun facts. Ages 5-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Health & Fitness

Walk/Run Trail Series: See July 2.

Library & Books

3rd & 4th Grade Parent Child Book Discussion: Spirited discussion focuses on Chocolate Fever by Robert Smith. Snacks provided. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Animal Superheroes: Wildlife investigator and author Laurel Neme tells tales of extraordinary animals like Fu Manchu, an orangutan who outsmarted his zookeeper. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

‘Be a Hero’ Projects: See July 2.

‘Booked for Lunch’: See July 2.

Colchester Lego Club: See July 2.

Lego My Library: See July 9.

Superhero Movie: Awe-inspiring feats on the screen dazzle viewers. Haston Library, Franklin, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Movies

Stories On The Screen: See July 9, 10 a.m.

Music

Craftsbury Chamber Players Mini-Concerts: Small music lovers experience an excerpt of the group’s evening concert, with selections and commentary geared toward young audiences. East Craftsbury Presbyterian Church, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 800-639-3443.

Free Summer Concert Series: See July 9. Groovin’ on the Green: See July 2.

Music for Preschoolers: See July 2.

Snow Farm Vineyard Summer Concert Series: See July 2.

Nature & Science

Discovery Drop-In Day Camp: See July 2.

Theater

Tom Murphy in ‘Murphy’s Law’: Solo slapstick comedy delights the whole family with unicycles, juggling and audience participation. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7 p.m. $20-43. Info, 760-4634.

31 FRIDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See July 1, 8:309:30 a.m.

Community Family Fun Night: See July 1. Friday Night Family Fun Series: See July 10.

Education

Family Fridays at Rokeby Museum: See July 10.

Fairs & Festivals

Festival of Fools: Street entertainers take over the Queen City with mind-boggling circus arts, music and comedy, with four main-stage locations featuring continuous street theater. The festival wraps up on Sunday, August 2, in a grand finale featuring all the performers. Downtown Burlington, 10 a.m. Donations accepted. Info, 865-7166.

Food

ArtsRiot Truck Stop Burlington: See July 3. Five Corners Farmers Market: See July 3. Richmond Farmers Market: See July 3.

Games

Dungeons & Dragons: Players exercise their problem-solving skills in imaginary battles and adventures. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See July 1. Shelburne Open Gym: See July 3.

Library & Books

Axis & Allies: War at Sea: See July 24. Early Bird Math: See July 3. Essex Junction Drop-in Story Time: See July 10, 10:30 a.m.

LCATV Young Producers Workshop: Up-andcoming directors learn to use video equipment, then shoot shoot and edit. Ages 10-17. Grand Isle Free Library, 9 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister. Info, 372-4797.

Richmond Superhero Training Day: Youngsters sharpen their special powers. Ages 3-7. Richmond Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

Music City Hall Park Concert Series: See July 1. Craftsbury Chamber Players Mini-Concerts: See July 30.

Kids Music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See July 3.

Want to make your own bat house? here are some things to consider:

Find a warm location. Bats need to stay cozy during the day. Choose an area with at least eight hours of direct sunlight each day.

Bat House

ElEVEn-y Ear-old Sloane Guillian of Burlington loves all animals, but she has a special fondness for bats.

“They help with mosquitoes, they’re not going to hurt you and they’re really sweet creatures,” she says. The fifth-grader feels so strongly about protecting Vermont’s brown bats that she built a house for them last fall in her family’s South End backyard.

where they learned more about just how dire the situation is.

shelters to bats, Vermonters can help protect them.

Parents: robin and steve Guillian

daughter: sloane, 11

Sloane got the idea for the dwelling after watching a television nature show that touched on a disease called white nose syndrome that is decimating North American brown bats. Inspired, she brought her mother, Robin, to a lecture on bats at Phoenix Books,

According to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, Vermont’s brown bat population has decreased by 90 percent in just six years and faces regional extinction. Scientists believe that the disease causes so much discomfort that it wakes the animals during their winter hibernation. Depleted, they search for food outdoors, where they often freeze or die of starvation.

There are a number of statewide efforts under-way to help understand and counteract the population decline, one of which involves building bat houses. By offering safe, clean

With assistance from friends and family, Sloane raised $55 to buy wood, nails and screen to make her own bat box. Together with her father, Steve, she built the house and placed it on a 16-foot pole in the warmest part of their backyard.

This spring, Sloane and her parents have noticed bats visiting their yard each evening. While she can’t say for certain that they’ve established a permanent residence in the bat house, Sloane is happy to see them.

“Bats are important,” she says. “I hope more people learn about bats and build houses for them.” K

Mount the house 10 feet in the air or higher. Bats need protection from predators and must be able to fly in comfortably.

Choose the right design. A bat house should be dark in color (to help retain heat), rough on the inside (so they can get a foothold to hang upside down) and include a landing area at the bottom (for grabbing onto when they exit or enter).

Learn more about bats and find links to more resources, including bat house plans, at vtfishandwildlife.com.

View a slideshow on bats, then watch them in action at Bats in the Barn at Shelburne Farms on July 24. Find more information at shelburnefarms.org.

Buy a bat house or plans for building one at batmanagement. com.

sloane Guillian with her mother, robin

The bat house

In Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert, the collage illustrations show beautiful flowers of all hues.

In Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert, the collage illustrations show beautiful flowers of all hues. Draw a picture of your dream garden with a caption describing what’s planted in it. Be colorful!

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.

Birthday Club

to:

GRAND-PRIZE WINNER

LILY lives in Swanton and turns 7 on July 9. She loves playing softball, riding her bike and playing with her black Lab, Canon. She’s excited to visit the ocean for the first time this summer.

Lily wins a birthday-party package for up to 10 kids.

To enter, submit information using the online form at kidsvt.com/birthday-club.

Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled.

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

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Puzzles4Kids

Riddle Search — It’s A Story

Search 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. Read from left to right, top to bottom to answer this riddle: Why is a garden like a story?

BY HELENA HOVANEC

MAKAYLA lives in Williston and turns 4 on July 26. She’s outgoing, smart, funny and independent. She loves being outdoors, doing gymnastics and reading books.

OLIVIA lives in St. Albans and turns 5 on July 28. She’s a sweet, energetic girl with an infectious laugh who enjoys reading books, dancing and playing with her friends. She loves all animals, especially her own dog and three cats.

More to do under one roof than anywhere in VT!

GEOFFREY lives in Colchester and turns 11 on July 31. He loves gardening, acting and maple creemees. He’s also into Irish step dancing and playing the piano — and is working on his unicycling skills.

Makayla, Olivia and Geoffrey each win a player pass.

COLORING CONTEST!

Three winners will each receive a one-day pass to Petra Cliffs

Send Kids VT your work of art by July 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 August issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

Kitty Love

How the baby helped us rediscover our cat

BEFORE WE BECAME PARENTS, my husband and I loved our cat like a child. She snuggled with me and Daniel when we watched movies. She slept in our bed every night. My phone was filled with photos of Haley, in all her runty glory.

Our cat is unique. We sometimes describe her as a goblin wearing a cheap cat suit. She’s missing one eye, and the half of her tail that remains is stumpy and kinked. She’s oddly boxy for a feline, her belly sags and her fur is a nondescript grey. She snores so loudly at night that sometimes she wakes me up.

In college, a friend and I used to visit Haley regularly at the humane society in Middlebury. A sta er there told me she was named after the 1950s rock band Bill Haley and the Comets, who penned the lyric, “I’m like a one-eyed cat, peeping in a seafood store.”

Haley would cower in the corner of her cage, ears flat against her head, until we picked her up and she melted into our arms. I’d never met a more loving kitty, nor heard a more enthusiastic purr.

I was living in a dorm at the time, but I convinced my parents — whose own cat had recently died — to adopt her. The deal was that I’d take her as soon as I moved into a pet-friendly apartment. That didn’t happen until two years later, when Daniel and I signed a lease on a roach-infested studio in Harlem.

Haley has lived with us ever since. She came along when we moved to Montpelier a few years later, and then to Winooski, where we built her an 8-foot-high, 12-footwide climbing palace that took up a good portion of our living room. In the warmer months, she’d wander out on our screened-in porch to watch the birds and squirrels. She had a good life.

Then our daughter, Joni, was born.

Amid the chaos of caring for a newborn, we sometimes forgot to feed our kitty. To add insult to injury, it was late April, and our landlords had begun a new project transforming our screened-in porch to an open deck. Haley, an indoor cat, had nowhere to go to look at squirrels. We’d come home from work at the end of the day to find her curled up in the same spot we’d left her, looking dejected and bored.

We rarely registered the cat’s presence — except during the wee hours when we’d wake up in a panic thinking we’d smothered our child only to discover it was Haley, not Joni, at the bottom of our bed.

Early on, I worried that Haley might jump into the bassinet and scratch the baby. But I soon learned the kitty was as disinterested in Joni as Joni was in her. We’d hold Joni right in front of the cat, showing her how to stroke Haley’s fur — but they looked right through each other.

Joni was a late bloomer on the joy front. We waited three agonizing months to see her first smile. But her enthusiasm was unequivocal the first time she noticed Haley.

We were playing on the floor when Haley sneezed. Four-monthold Joni looked up, located the beast responsible for the hilarious sound and burst into raucous laughter. We’d never heard our daughter laugh before.

Thus began Joni’s obsession with Haley. Whenever she saw the cat, Joni thrust her arms toward her with zealous fervor. She crouched beside the kitty to watch her chomp on kibble bits. When Joni was upset, just the sight of Haley often stopped her crying. One of Joni’s first words was “titi” for “kitty.”

Last fall, we moved to a house in Middlebury. When spring arrived, we decided to let Haley outside during the day. Kitty has never been happier, and Joni loves to watch her prowl the yard. When Haley emerges from the woods, Joni loses her mind with joy, squealing and pointing and all but hurling herself at the cat.

Haley has been patient and gentle through it all. Even when Joni is at her most aggressive, grabbing fistfuls of the cat’s fur and yanking them with all her might, Haley just stands up calmly and saunters o .

Joni’s a ection for the kitty isn’t completely unrequited. Occasionally, I catch Haley happily swatting at Joni’s toys. And the other day, the cat flopped onto the carpet and rolled onto her back so that Joni could rub her belly, though it was more of a loving whack.

Recently, while Joni was nursing, Haley leapt up beside us to nuzzle the baby’s head. Joni looked up at me, giggling, as if to say, Are you seeing this!? Do you have any idea how amazing this is?

Haley is no longer the center of our universe, but she’s even more integral to the family. She’s the weird one-eyed creature who makes Joni laugh. And what a joy it is to watch.

Now if we could just find time to clean the litter box.

Whenever she saw the cat, Joni thrust her arms toward her with zealous fervor.

DANIEL HOUGHTON

14-month-old Joni and 14-year-old Haley