Kids VT, August 2013

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The Vermont Higher Education Investment Plan (VHEIP) is administered by the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC), and managed by TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc. Consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses before investing in the VHEIP 529 college savings plan. Please visit www.vheip.org for a Plan Disclosure Booklet with this and more information. Read it carefully Investments in the Plan are neither insured nor guaranteed and there is the risk of investment loss. The tax information contained herein is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties. Taxpayers should seek advice from an independent tax advisor based on their own particular circumstances. The VHEIP Facebook page is managed by VSAC.

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Own Inspired Path to Learning

LEARN. PLAY

Day - cations

Base

their

ON THE COVER

We couldn’t resist putting Birthday Club winner Cooper Lewis on our cover! His mom, Erica DeFrain of South Burlington, snapped this photo of him sporting a baseball cap at Bread & Butter Farm earlier this summer.

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

Copublisher Colby Roberts colby@kidsvt.com ext. 77

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

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

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

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

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

P.O. Box 1184 Burlington, VT 05402

802-985-5482 kidsvt.com

• Published 11x per year.

Circulation: 25,000 at 400+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.

• © 2013 Da Capo Publishing

WE BELIEVE all children deserve an education that nurtures confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning. Our carefully crafted homeschooling curriculum is infused with imagination and heart. Use it independently or through our fully accredited distance learning school that offers expert teacher support and official school records.

High school students will find opportunities for dual enrollment advanced study life experience credit travel and summer programs Visit

Copy Editor Paula Routly

Proofreaders Marisa Keller

Hayley Lamberson

Production Manager John James

Lead Designer Brooke Bousquet

Designers Andrew Sawtell

Rev. Diane Sullivan

Circulation Managers Steve Hadeka

Matt Weiner

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

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

Digital Media Manager Tyler Machado

Office Manager Cheryl Brownell

Contributing Writers: Nancy Stearns Bercaw, Dan Bolles, Cypress Marrs, Cara Mezitt, Cindy Morgan, Alison Novak, Ken Picard, Benjamin Roesch, Sarah Tuff, Sarah Williamson

Photographers: Matthew Thorsen

Jeb Wallace-Brodeur

Illustrator: Rev. Diane Sullivan

Risky Business

You have to let kids get hurt sometimes, my friend Meghan told me recently. We were talking on her back porch, while my kids, 5 and 7, played with a 6-year-old neighbor boy in the yard.

The three of them had invented a game. They were standing beneath a tree. From its branches hung two rope swings: one ended in a knot; the other had a small but thick stick on the end. One kid held each swing; the third wielded a plastic bat.

At an agreed upon time, the kids with the ropes would whip them through the air toward the batter, who would swing and try to hit them both. It looked dangerous on many levels.

Be careful! I yelled reflexively at my daughter, Ivy, the youngest of the crew. Watch out for that piece of wood!

I hollered, as I saw the stick narrowly miss her head. That’s when Meghan, whose boys are a few years older, made her comment.

She gently reminded me that kids need to test their physical limits, brushing up against the edge of what they can and should do. They may get hurt, but they’ll be learning how to assess risk — a vital skill once they’re out on their own.

I was grateful for the reality check.

After all, I was a daredevil child. I hung upside down from monkey bars, climbed tall trees and jumped my bike over flimsy plywood ramps daily — without a helmet.

I freaked out parents — mine and everyone else’s — on a regular basis. I never understood what they were all so upset about. I never got seriously

hurt. Didn’t they know I knew what I was doing?

Why do I have such a hard time understanding that my kids feel the same way?

So I piped down. Without my warnings, they figured out all by themselves how not to get hurt.

Summer is a good time to remember Meghan’s advice. This issue of Kids VT is full of activities for kids that involve various physical challenges, whether it’s clambering over rocks at Little River State Park (“Vermont Day-cations,” page 16) or playing hard on a hot soccer field (“Fit Families,” page 11).

Of course, adult supervision is sometimes necessary. In this month’s “Use Your Words” (page 51), Nancy Stearns Bercaw relates a chilling tale about a swimming mishap. It serves as a reminder to all parents: When a child is truly in danger, adults need to be ready and able to act.

How do you encourage your kids to take risks safely? Drop us a line and let us know. We love hearing from you.

Cathy ResmeR, exeCutive editoR

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

Nancy Stearns Bercaw (“Use Your Words”) is the author of Brain in a Jar: A Daughter’s Journey Through Her Father’s Memory. She lives in Burlington with her husband, Allan, and son, David.

Cara Mezitt (“Vermont Day-cations”) is the owner of Yellow Birch Studio. She lives in Bolton with her husband, Brian, and sons William and Cullen.

Benjamin Roesch (“Go Ask Dad”) teaches English at Burlington High School and lives in the city’s Old North End with his wife, Shannon, and sons Felix and Leo. He blogs at benjaminroesch.com.

Readers Respond

Enchanting Article

I would love to be the kid who lives there or gets invited to that cool “enchanted backyard” [“Habitat,” July 2013]. What a great idea! Well done.

Lisri Correll Colchester

Feeling the Force

I love that you guys have articles about stu parents actually talk about [“How do you know if your kid is ready to watch Star Wars?” February 2011]. Have had this conversation with lots of friends and sometimes get gasping questions — “You let them watch Star Wars?!” We watched it as a family. My husband and I really enjoyed re-watching them!

Megan Rudy Quechee

Good Eats

Really a wonderful night for the family [“Out to Eat: Burger Night at Bread & Butter Farm,” July 2013]. Kids can explore and see the farm, and everyone gets to eat great food! Get in line early; otherwise, you’ll be standing in line for a while. They can also sell out of what you were hoping to have for dinner, so have a back-up plan in mind.

Barbara Barras South Burlington

Got a comment? Email us at feedback@ kidsvt.com. Or create a profile at kidsvt.com and respond on our website for a chance to win a 2014 Vermont State Parks pass.

Home Run

July 18 was Kids VT night at Centennial Field in Burlington. The first 500 kids through the gate got a voucher for a free hot dog, bag of chips and soft drink; the first 200 took home a free Kids VT water bottle. Young Keira McKeen threw the first pitch — on her birthday! It was a winning night all around: The Vermont Lake Monsters defeated Maryland’s Aberdeen IronBirds 6-4.

“Last night was such a wonderful experience for our family. Keira had the ‘best day ever’ throwing out the first pitch. Thank you, KidsVT newspaper, for making it a po ible.”

Bianca McKeen Rutland

PHOTOS BY MATTHEW THORSEN

Best of the Kids VT Blog

“Home Front” Finale

In July, our “Home Front: Diaries of a Vermont military family” blog series came to an end. Tasha Lehman, a mother of three boys, chronicled her husband’s first overseas deployment with the Vermont National Air Guard from start to finish. Here’s an excerpt from her final post:

Our deployment journey started out with a boom. Literally. A tree fell on our house just before my husband, Matt, deployed overseas, and I knew the next six months were going to be a doozy.

The “deployment curse” continued to wreak havoc over that time. Even a few days before Matt came home, I paid $800 in car repairs and enjoyed the thrill of a child with pink eye.

Matt’s homecoming was filled with cheers and tears. Not from me. I was too happy, relieved, excited, nervous — don’t make me pick an emotion — to make a sound.

“I’ll let you run ahead and hug him first,” I told the boys as we saw him coming toward us at the airport. “But you better hurry.”

In that moment, it didn’t feel real. A flashback of the last six months clouded my mind. All the things we’ve been through, the tears we’ve cried, the nights I didn’t sleep and the days I pulled the covers over my head and wished it all away — they are memories now. They’ve become harder to remember every day since Matt’s been home.

What will not slip away so easily are the lessons we learned about inner strength and personal sacrifice for a greater good. All I learned about perseverance, self control and patience, I will not soon forget...

Welcome home, Matt! And thanks to all those who have served and are serving in the armed forces and their families.

Finish reading at kidsvt.com

Other recent web exclusives:

COLORING CONTEST

We saw a lot of eagles wearing stars and stripes in honor of Independence Day in this month’s 95 Coloring Contest entries — as well as a whole brood of “chickens.” Most impressive, though, were the 18 outstanding submissions from 10-year-old Ashley Tierney of Vergennes. She earns a feather in her cap!

HONORABLE MENTIONS

ABOVE AND BEYOND

“Hi and Goodbye Fly-Away Eagle”

Sophie Van Zyl, 5, Addison

BEAUTIFUL BONNET

“Happy Hat”

Lily Williams, 6, Shelburne

CLEVER COLORING

“Mr. Red, White and Blue”

Joyce Ma, 7, South Burlington

ENCHANTING EAGLE

“Magic Eagle”

Erin Fina, 8, Shelburne

FAIREST FEATHERS

“Eagle Equality”

Emily Cueto, 11, St. Albans

NEITHER BIRD NOR PLANE

“It’s Superwoman”

Riordan Adams, 3, Essex Junction

ORIGINAL ORNITHOLOGIST

“The Green-Bellied Eagle”

Kennedy Joyette, 6, Essex

PERFECTLY PATRIOTIC

“Eagle of Patriots”

Journey Porta, 11, Burlington

RAD RINGMASTER

“Circus Bird”

Hailey Leuang, 11, Essex Junction

RIGHTEOUS RACER

“A Running Eagle”

Harper Hayes, 4, Burlington

SPELLBINDING SCENERY

“Magician Bird”

Amelia Mason, 11, Burlington

VERY VIBRANT

“Colorful Eagle”

These winners get $25 from TD Bank.

“Families Out and About: A Magical Rainy Beach Day”:

In a strange summer of torrential showers, lead designer Brooke Bousquet wrote about braving Burlington’s North Beach in the rain.

“Tune Time: 10 Family-Friendly — and Free! — Summer Concert Series”: When it comes to music, Vermonters are spoiled this time of year. Managing editor Carolyn Fox compiled a list of our favorite outdoor spots to catch some tunes.

“Home Cookin’: Strawberry Topping, Two Ways”: After picking at Monkton’s Last Resort Farm with her son, writer Alison Novak shared a recipe for macerated berries, to be served over frozen yogurt.

Juliana Van Zyl, 3, Addison

TOP TITLES

“FLY FOR THE FOURTH OF JULY”

Rachel Porth, 8, Jericho

“RED, WHITE AND HOOT”

Maddie Mullins, 10, Colchester

Find this month’s coloring contest on page 49. The deadline for submissions is August 15.

“The Chicken”

Chelsea Blais, 3 COLCHESTER

“Rainbow Raven”

Eli Love, 7 JERICHO

“Fourth of July Eagle”

Elsa Lindenmeyr, 10 ADDISON

Let’s get ready to DANCE!

We’ve got everything you need for your FALL dance classes. Dancewear, Shoes and all the Accessories for all types of dance! ~ NEW Gymnastics Apparel Arriving Soon!

THE BEAT

BOOKS

Hip-Hop History

Hip hip hop, hippity hop. That’s how Clive Campbell tapped his feet to music as a young boy in Jamaica. He brought that rhythm with him when his family moved to the Bronx in the late 1960s. Before long, “Little Clive” became DJ Kool Herc, inventor of hip-hop. A new illustrated children’s book by Caldecott Honor-winning Winooski author Laban Carrick Hill tells the story. WHEN THE BEAT WAS BORN explains how DJ Kool Herc set up two turntables sideby-side to stretch the musical “breaks” in songs, creating long stretches of danceable tunes. Breakdancing was born at DJ Kool Herc’s parties, where, Hill writes, “even street gangs wanted to dance, not fight.” Small children might not be ready for Kanye West or Jay Z, but they’ll enjoy this book about the boy whose feet could feel the beat. — C.F.

FOOD

Recipe for Success

Summer is ice cream season, and kids can go gourmet at Shelburne’s CHEF CONTOS KITCHEN & STORE. In an August 6 cooking class, student-chefs will whip up Tahitian vanilla ice cream and homemade wa e cones. It’s one of several kids classes Courtney Contos teaches in her retail kitchen, which opened last spring. Whether she’s helping her young students roll out crust for berry pies or make guacamole and salsa for cheesy quesadillas, Contos wants to get them “excited and motivated to cook.” Formerly the chef-instructor at the Inn at Essex, Contos has been working with kids for more than 10 years. It’s similar to teaching adults, she says, except kids “are just messier.” — C.F.

CHEF CONTOS KITCHEN & STORE: Cooking classes for kids or teens are held weekly at 65 Falls Road in Shelburne; private birthday parties are also available. For more information, call 497-3942 or visit chefcontos.com.

BY CAROLYN FOX AND SARAH WILLIAMSON

WHEN THE BEAT WAS BORN: DJ KOOL HERC AND THE CREATION OF HIP HOP: By Laban Carrick Hill and illustrated by Theodore Taylor III. Published by Roaring Brook Press, 31 pages. $17.99 hardcover.

MUSEUMS

Small Wonders

Rutland is poised to become Vermont’s newest children’s destination: WONDERFEET KIDS’ MUSEUM opens downtown this month. For the past two years, community volunteers have hosted small exhibits and creative activities for kids during the city’s Friday Night Live summer event series. Now, in a rent-free storefront, they’ll have a designated space for interactive education. “We’re really looking to be a place where families can learn and play together,” says lead organizer Myra Pe er. The new digs will be open year-round on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., as well as by appointment for field trips and birthday parties on Thursdays and Sundays, respectively. The exhibits, initially geared toward 3- to 8-year-olds, will focus on science, technology, engineering and math education, problem solving, and hands-on building. — C.F.

TECHNOLOGY

Creative Computing

Dairy Farm 1890 Farm House Farm Life Exhibits Engaging Programs and Activities

May – October, Daily November–February Weekends

802- 457-2355

www.billingsfarm.org

Are you thinking about starting or expanding your family?

YOUNG HACKS ACADEMY: For more information about 2014 camp sessions, visit younghacksacademy.com.

Many summer camps ask kids to leave digital devices behind, but not the YOUNG HACKS ACADEMY. Fifty-eight campers ages 10 to 12 learned computer programming basics during Young Hacks’ first two weeklong summer sessions at Colchester High School. The second session closed with a public showcase on July 19, where campers presented interactive games they’d made using kid-friendly programming software called Scratch. The topics they chose to address in their games varied — from demonstrating tornado safety to delivering vaccines in the Congo. One game about genetically modified food challenged players to stab an ear of corn with a syringe. “It is pretty obvious that kids are hungry for this type of stu ,” says camp director Thomas Bacon. “It seems like a really good program that could be replicated in other places.” — S.W.

DENTAL HEALTH

Grin and Share It

Know any outstanding citizens — big or small — who need braces? Drs. John Steinman and Lynne Addiego of Barre’s All Smiles Family Dental Center are giving them away for free to a deserving individual through THE EMBRACE PROJECT, a community outreach e ort in its inaugural year. They’re currently accepting nominations for children and adults who have made a positive contribution to their school or community, or who have overcome a challenging personal obstacle. Submissions will be accepted through August 17. A winner will be chosen on September 4 — and everyone nominated will be eligible for up to $500 o his or her orthodontic treatment. Now that’s something to smile about. — C.F.

THE EMBRACE PROJECT: For more information and to submit a nomination, visit theembraceproject.com.

IF YOU ARE A WOMAN:

Between the ages of 18 and 42 and plan to become pregnant in the next year

Never had a child before, or Have diabetes or hypertension, or Had preeclampsia, or Have a family history of hypertension or preeclampsia

THEN

Researchers at the University of Vermont would like to speak with you. is study will examine risk factors for preeclampsia, a disease of pregnancy.

Financial compensation of up to $375 is provided. We will provide you with ovulation detection kits to aid timing your conception.

If you are interested please call 802-656-0309 for more information.

WONDERFEET KIDS’ MUSEUM: Located at 17 Center Street in downtown Rutland. Admission is $2. For more information, visit wonderfeetkidsmuseum.org.

Isaac MandellSeaver and Bridger Ellms

Woodstock, Vermont

Early Childhood Programs designed specifically for the developmental needs of children.

Monday - Friday 7:00 am to 5:30 pm for children ages 6 weeks - Pre-K Full-time

229-2869

TURNER TOYS & HOBBIES

Classic and Educational Toys for:

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How can parents tell when it’s too hot for their kids?

By Ken Picard

HoT enougH FoR you? Especially in the summer, it’s important to remember that children are more susceptible to heat-related ailments than adults. Kids have a larger surface area relative to their body weight, which means they absorb heat faster. It takes them longer to cool down because their sweat glands are not as developed — or as numerous — as they will be later in life. And kids don’t get thirsty the way adults do, which leaves them prone to dehydration.

This month, Dr. Lewis First, head of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care, offers tips for recognizing and treating heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

KIDS VT: What are heat cramps?

LEWIS FIRST: Heat cramps occur without a fever, typically after exercise in extreme heat. When kids sweat, they can lose fluid and salt, which causes a metabolic imbalance. The first place kids feel it is in their muscles — their calves, thighs and occasionally their belly — which will start cramping.

KVT: How do parents treat heat cramps?

LF: This one is easy. Stop them from exercising, bring them inside or to a cool place, have them drink plenty of fluids and massage the cramps, and they’re usually good to go within a couple of hours. In fact, the cramps usually subside within a couple of minutes.

Heat cramps don’t preclude children from going outside the next day. It’s actually a good opportunity to teach kids about the importance of staying hydrated.

THE NORTH BRANCH NATURE CENTER

Our Forest School Programs are outdoor, exploratory, play-based programs that support children to be active in their own learning process and to care for others and the natural world around them. We are guided by the belief that children should spend a large portion of the day outside and use the natural environment as a tool to learn and play!

FOREST PRESCHOOL

Tues. and Thur., Sept. 3-Nov. 21 , 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. (children can attend one or both days) Fee: $420 for one day, $800 for both days, for 12 weeks Forest Pre-K is for children ages of 3.5 and 5 yrs. old.

FOREST SCHOOL

Fridays, Sept. 13th to June 6, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Fridays, Sept. 13th to June 6, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Fee: $1,560 members (payment plans available)

The new Forest School is for children ages 6-8 yrs. old. This program uses seasonal and emerging curriculum to meet each child’s innate desire to learn about the world.

To register for our program call 229-6206 www.northbranchnaturecenter.org

KVT: What is heat exhaustion?

LF: Heat exhaustion is a combination of high environmental temperatures and dehydration. This means that heat is building up in the body without the ability to lose it through sweat. Typically, heat exhaustion is marked by a fever of 100 to 104 degrees.

A child with heat exhaustion will appear weak and fatigued, their skin will feel clammy, and they may experience nausea, vomiting, weakness and a headache.

KVT: How do you treat heat exhaustion?

LF: Get the kids inside or into the shade, remove or loosen their clothing, and encourage them to slowly but steadily drink cool liquids. If they can’t drink because they’re too nauseated, that’s a reason to seek emergency care — they’ll need intravenous fluids. They should be bathed in cool — but not cold — water.

If the water’s too cold, they’re going to shiver, which will generate even more body heat.

As long as their temperature is below 105 degrees, the body is still trying to compensate and get rid of the heat. If you don’t treat heat exhaustion while the temperature is in that range, it could progress to heat stroke.

KVT: What is heat stroke?

LF: Heat stroke is a true medical emergency. The body essentially gives up and can no longer regulate its internal temperature. So the person will stop sweating and continue to heat up.

give him or her cool liquids to drink. They’re not in control of their swallowing mechanism and may vomit and then aspirate the liquid into their lungs.

KVT: Does it matter if kids are hydrated with plain water or sports drinks?

LF: The American Academy of Pediatrics is fine with the use of cool water. Most kids who are under 90 pounds need four to six ounces of water before they go out, and for every 20 minutes of exercise or activity. If they’re over 90 pounds, they need about nine to 12 ounces every 20 minutes.

Ordinarily, I’m not a big fan of flavored sports drinks for kids because of all the sugar and other additives in them. But the advantage of sports drinks in high-heat situations is that they have a salty flavor and will make kids thirstier, and thus drink more.

KVT: How can kids exercise safely in the heat?

KVT: How do parents tell the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke?

LF: Basically, the child’s body temperature will be above 105 degrees with heat stroke. Whether the temperature is taken orally, rectally or in the ear, if it reads above 105, the child is verging on heat stroke.

The child will have very hot, flushed and dry skin. They’ll become incredibly dizzy, confused and may have a seizure. They’ll also have a throbbing headache and may be unresponsive to the point of losing consciousness.

If this occurs, bring them inside immediately, sponge them down with cool water and call 911 because an emergency facility will need to do appropriate cooling. When someone has heat stroke, it is not appropriate to

LF: Especially in hot and humid conditions, athletic workouts should take place in the morning or late afternoon, when the sun is not at its peak. Coaches should slowly increase activities during the first two weeks of hot-weather practice and not have kids put on heavy equipment and uniforms until their bodies are better acclimated to exercising in the heat.

They should then be sure the kids hydrate every 20 minutes. One idea is to weigh kids before and after each vigorous 20-minute workout to make sure they are not losing too much weight too suddenly due to dehydration. Adequate hydration should be instituted before heat exhaustion or heat stroke occurs.

Finally, coaches and parents should know how to recognize heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and have a suitable first-aid and emergency-transport plan should a heat illness occur. K

If they can’t drink because they’re too nauseated, that’s a reason to seek emergency care.

Having a Ball

Q the lIbrarIan lIkes

Until then, the sky’s the limit in terms of playing soccer “games” with your children. The trick, says Williams, is to take common games that kids already know — such as red light-green light, sharks and minnows or tag — and add a soccer ball.

Perry’s summary: The Three Little Pigs is a children’s classic, but awardwinning author and illustrator Mark Teague gives the story a twist.

When a farmer and his wife move to Florida, three pigs find themselves suddenly displaced from their farm. They decide to build their own homes. Two of the pigs purchase cheap straw and sticks, spending the rest of their money on their favorite snacks. The third pig buys bricks and plants a garden instead.

It Was a sWelterIng summer mornIng at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg, but the dozens of red-faced kids kicking soccer balls didn’t seem bothered by the heat.

They were busy negotiating orange cones, dodging and darting, when head coach Stan Williams shouted, “Katie, send your pinnies here! Tucker, send your blue team over here! Half the team stays, half the team goes!”

It was rotation time at CVU Soccer School, one of Vermont’s many summertime programs designed to help kids take their game to the next level. Now in its 13th year, the camp attracts more than 120 kids in kindergarten through ninth grade. Taught by 20-plus instructors, the weeklong session promotes a love for the game via “skills and tactics that are an essential part of becoming a complete player.”

The beauty of soccer? You can play it anywhere — even in your own backyard. “All you need is a ball and some room,” says Williams. “And you can make up so many games.”

Williams’ recommendation for parents of young soccer players: Make

sure they get a chance to play. While the older kids at Soccer School were on a separate field learning skills, drills and rules, the miniest Pelés were focusing simply on having fun.

Instead of being told to dribble, kids were told to act like the superhero Flash and go as fast as they could down the field with the ball. Instead of passing, they played Batman and Robin, kicking the ball back and forth to each other. There were obstacle courses, bowling pins to knock down — just about anything to engage the kids’ imaginations.

“I’ve seen lots of kids who love practicing soccer at a young age but don’t like the competition,” says Williams. “Parents and coaches need to keep in mind the age group. Are the practices and drills fun? Is it organized? Are all the players involved? Are all players getting lots of touches?”

Parents should remember that kids under 6 can’t grasp team sports or passing, says Williams. By age 8, they begin to get a feel for team sports. By 10 or 11, they can be playing high-quality team soccer.

After a week at CVU Soccer School, my own little dribblers, ages 4 and 6, have been keen to try out these games at home. Along with certificates for “Most Mischievous Smile” and “Stellar Offender,” respectively, they each left camp with a small soccer ball — now prominently placed by the garage door as a reminder to play every chance we get.

“To become balanced athletes, physically and emotionally,” says Williams, “kids need to learn to have a ball on their foot. It has to be fun.”K

try thIs at home:

As Coach williams says, all you need to play soccer is a ball and some room. Turn your backyard into a playing field — or, on rainy or wintry days, move to your garage or basement. Even a short driveway has enough space for a game of freeze tag with a ball, for example. wear loose, comfortable athletic clothing and sneakers; cleats aren’t necessary for home play.

Look for soccer balls of the following sizes for your kids:

Ages 8 and under: size 3

Ages 8 to 12: size 4

Ages 12 and up: size 5

Soon a wolf comes to town looking for lunch — but his interactions with the pigs are humorous rather than threatening.

Teague’s bright and engaging oil-paint illustrations pave the way for an unexpected happy ending.

lIbrarIan: Amanda Perry, winooski

memorial Library

book: The Three Little Pigs and the Somewhat Bad Wolf by mark Teague

age range: 3-5

Why kids will like it: Repeated lines encourage kids to join in during readalouds. Kids will love saying “huff” and “puff” and “blow the house down!” It’s also fun to find all the animals on each page — in addition to the pigs and wolf, there are birds, cats, chickens and ducks. This is a story you and your preschooler will enjoy. K

“The Librarian Likes” features a different librarian and book each month.

Got an idea for a future “LL”?

Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

kids were told to act like the superhero Flash and go as fast as they could down the field with the ball.

Playing ball at cVu soccer school

Q OUT TO EAT

By cindy morgan

Burlington Bay Market & Café

I hAd bEEn A crEEmEE cUsTOmEr at Burlington Bay Market & Café’s ice cream window for years before I realized you could order breakfast, lunch and dinner inside. After making that discovery, my husband and I took advantage of a recent sunny day by bringing the kids to this waterfront restaurant for an al fresco lunch.

While I didn’t expect the finest dining in the Queen City, I knew we could count on one of the finest views around. The expansive outdoor patio overlooks Lake Champlain and the south end of Waterfront Park.

Despite the open kitchen and grill, it’s not a greasy fast-food snack shack. The lunch and dinner menu offers soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, burgers and a few daily specials. You’ll find fresh meat and vegetables, creative seasonings and sauces, and several fish and vegetarian options. Everything is reasonably priced.

The lunch crowd that day comprised local workers, tourists and families. Some were buying snacks and drinks — the market has a great selection of wine and beer, and even includes a liquor store for the marina crowd — but many, like us, were queued up to order meals. Even with the rush, the line moved briskly.

Burlington Bay doesn’t have a kids menu, but the cooks are willing to tweak entrées to suit young diners. Upon request, they’ll serve a plain grilled cheese or undressed burger, and my daughter was happy to take advantage of a simple hot dog with fries.

We ordered and paid at the register, then took our drinks and my son’s cup of clam chowder to a table. My grand plan to eat outside was thwarted by the crowds, but the indoor tables had the same spectacular view, and we didn’t have to worry about the heat or the sunscreen. We were still able to people- and lake-watch until our meals were delivered.

My son oohed and ahhed over his chowder, deeming it one of the best he’s ever tasted. His Grilled Chicken Club Wrap — hold the veggies — was packed with bacon and grilled all-natural chicken. His only complaint was that he would have preferred cheddar cheese to Swiss.

Free Kids Meal

His sister was less excited about her Jumbo McKenzie all-beef hot dog. “It’s OK,” she shrugged. But the fries made up for it — she downed more than her fair share of our quart-size bucket.

My husband’s Ginger Wasabi Mahi Mahi sandwich was a little “fishy,” but the fresh pineapple and pickled ginger wasabi dressing salvaged it for him. The maple balsamic on my Garden Hummus Wrap pulled together the mild hummus, shredded carrots, grape tomatoes, spring greens, cucumbers and red onions. Slightly gooey, sweet and salty, the dressing made all the ingredients sing. Next time, I’ll get some extra on the side for dipping.

When every last fry had been extracted from the carton, we headed out to the ice cream window. Even with full bellies, we were able to force down dessert: a root-beer float for my son, a chocolate creemee for my daughter and a vanilla creemee for me.

The creemees here are creamier and dreamier than other iterations. The subtle flavors don’t seem overly artificial. Each of the four offerings — vanilla, chocolate, black raspberry and maple — is so good that I have trouble choosing every time I go. So I usually get more than one.

The best part? We got to eat our desserts at an outside table under an umbrella in utter summer bliss. K

for lunch;

for dessert

KId-frIEndly AmEnITIEs: five high chairs, one booster seat, an outdoor patio for running around and the best creemees in Burlington

Rue and Sophie Brown and Jill Rathke enjoy cremees at Burlington Bay Market & Café

TOTAl bIll fOr fOUr: $47.31

$10.83

The creemees here are creamier and dreamier than other iterations.

What are your family’s favorite rainy-day activities?

Brian Williams

Burlington

PrinciPal, sustainaBility academy at laWrence Barnes

Son Haven, 15; daughters Maude, 12, and Eleanor, 6

Rainy days are when my family takes a deep breath and looks around. Too often we are going at light speed here and there — just missing, not listening.

It’s almost like a rainy day causes time and our molecular structure to slow down to the point where we can see and listen to each other again. And, in those moments, we reconnect and make a plan to deepen the connections. Sometimes we lie around the house and read books or watch movies; other times, we’ll walk in the rain through the woods and down to the lake. Sometimes it’s a dance party or maybe lunch at the pub. Whatever the team decides, that’s what we do — and we do it together.

chad Prouty

ColChester

Business develoPment manager, sticks and stuff

Sons Sawyer, 5, Tanner, 2, and Shay, 2

Most recently, rainy days have included long sessions of Lego building. Sawyer, our oldest, can read a Lego booklet diagram and put it together without any help. He especially likes building castles and playing superheroes. Once Lego structures are built, then it’s time to try to keep the twins from destroying them, which isn’t always easy.

We also get out the art supplies and draw on rainy days. Recently, Sawyer was drawing out of one of his favorite monster books, trying to copy the monsters as closely as possible. It wasn’t van Gogh, but you could tell what each monster was, and I was really impressed! Sometimes we also dress up in costumes and build castles out of cardboard, pretending to be pirates or knights.

A lot of times, though, we throw on our rain boots and coats and go right outside. The kids love the rain. They love to look for worms in the wet weather. There are a couple of big wooden logs that I keep in the yard, just so we can turn them over and look for stuff. We find centipedes sometimes, and the kids freak out! I love it.

madhu neuPane

ColChester

Program manager for develoPmental services, hoWardcenter Daughters Deepa, 19, and Anisha, 15

The activity I like to do on a rainy day is to sit with my children at home and play either table tennis or do some math tricks with them. My children enjoy my tricks, which make them think and learn. We also play some card games; I love to show them some tricks with cards, too. It becomes their responsibility to find out how they work.

We also make hot spicy food during rainy days and eat it to keep us warm in the winter. During summer, I like to be outside in the garden, even in rain. If I am not able to go out, I like to read and watch television.

One of my daughters likes dancing, and she tries to teach us on rainy days. But it’s difficult, as her “students” are not good dancers!

seth neary

Burlington

creative director and founder, driven studio Daughters Josephine, 5, and Frances, 4

I like to cram in as much activity with my girls as possible on a rainy day. I’ll take them to Talent Skatepark for a couple of hours — we always have a great time there; the girls love it. I’m one of the dads who will get out there and skate with them. They work on their tall drops and drop-ins, and I skate the mini ramp. At the end of our session, we chill and eat M&M’s.

If it’s a Saturday, my wife and I will take them to a kids CrossFit class at CrossFit Burlington. While my wife is deadlifting weights, the kids are running obstacle courses and hammering out burpees. We never sit still. K

They love to look for worms in the wet weather ... We find centipedes sometimes, and the kids freak out!

chad Prouty

Taiko Drumming

the air and a wide-legged, athletic stance.

Paton uses visualization to guide his students. “Imagine your head as a bucket of rainwater. You’re going to bend at the hip and pour it out,” he explains while teaching one bow-like movement.

Paton stands at the front of the room with his back to his students, drumming and vocalizing while the kids mimic his actions, working their way through a composition called “Matsuri Taiko.” His demeanor is calm but strict.

“Hands on shoulders,” he directs when some errant drumming comes from the group while he is speaking. The boys respond immediately.

Contrary to geographiCal probability, Japanese taiko drummers are a familiar sight in Vermont. The loud, rhythmic adult taiko ensemble has become an integral part of both the Vermont City Marathon and the First Night Burlington Parade.

Less visible but just as surprising: For the past 20 years, Stuart Paton, founder of Burlington Taiko, has also been teaching this modern form of ancient Japanese drumming to kids.

The lessons take place at Burlington Taiko’s South End dojo — a Japanese term for a student gathering spot. Drums of all sizes hang enticingly from the white brick walls. On a recent summer day, seven school-age boys remove their shoes and bow as they enter.

The boys line up shoulder to shoulder in order of seniority and sit in formal seiza position, bums resting on their heels and hands on their laps. “It automatically makes their backs straighter,” Paton explains later. “The lungs can inhale more; their bodies are more alert.”

Paton, who wears a skinny red headband and a long, gray braid, was raised in Tokyo but didn’t formally study taiko until he was a college student in America. “It’s been a great way for me to be in touch with the culture and language I grew up with,” he says.

Through taiko, he explains, he hopes to teach kids about patience, politeness and respect. Within the walls of the dojo, students must address each other with titles of respect — adding “-san” to the end of everyone’s name — and respond to Paton’s directions with “Hai, Sensei,” which means “Yes, Teacher.”

The group spends several minutes “air drumming” the piece of music they’ve been working on, while simultaneously yelling the Japanese vocalizations that correspond to each movement.

Warm-up exercises that build strength, coordination and endurance follow. The boys scoot on their bellies like sea lions and skitter lightly on their fingers and toes like scorpions. “We do that to honor the physical energy and excitement kids arrive with,” Paton says.

When the boys are finally directed to pick up their drumsticks, a few of them break into smiles. They begin their drumming on tires wrapped in duct and packing tape, then move on to larger — and louder — practice drums made from drainage pipes covered with rawhide.

To the observer, taiko appears to be as much a full-body workout as a music lesson. “Taiko is movement and music together,” Paton explains. Intricate choreography accompanies each musical piece, involving arms sweeping through

Structure and discipline are integral to teaching taiko to the younger set, Paton says. But kids often catch on to complicated drumming sequences quicker than adults.

“There is a full-body/heart intuition more immediately available with kids,” he theorizes.

One of Paton’s pupils, 7-year-old Rowan, would probably agree. He started taking taiko because his grandma is in the adult ensemble. He points her out in a group photo on the wall of the dojo She’s still learning, just like him. K

iF you go: Burlington taiko is located at 208 Flynn ave., suite 3-G, in Burlington. the next six-week kids’ beginner class series starts tuesday, september 10, at 4:305:20 p.m. Classes are for boys and girls ages 6 and up. tuition is $60 for six weeks.

in addition to kids’ classes, stuart Paton does school residencies, assemblies and private events. For more information, contact Paton at spaton55@gmail.com or 999-4255.

What to bring: students should wear loosefitting exercise clothes to class. all other equipment is provided.

Clockwise from bottom left: Rowan Blanchard, Kaito Essels Trom, instructor Stuart Paton, Tegan Ross and Damon Ross

be as much a fullbody workout as a music

Day-cations

CULTURE & NATURE

There’s still time to take a few “day-cations” before school is back in session. Has the hot weather addled your brain, leaving you uninspired? We’ve got a few day-trip suggestions for you.

Every summer, Kids VT seeks out family-friendly destinations where you and your kids can experience the natural beauty and unique culture of the Green Mountain State. They’re all places you can visit for a day, though some merit a longer stay.

Each of our three summer issues features two recommended stops, complete with tips on nearby dining and attractions. In this final installment, our writers and their families hike through the hills and gaze down dizzying granite cliffs.

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

Ready to Rock: Digging Graniteville’s Rock of Ages

BY NANCY STEARNS

Just a stone’s throw from Burlington, Rock of Ages granite quarry is a glimpse into another world. The setting is so surreal — sheer, jagged walls of gray granite plunging 600 feet into a pool of fluorescent green water — that Superman’s enemies might mistakenly stop by for Kryptonite. A view of this bedrock would undoubtedly have reduced cartoon quarry worker Fred Flintstone to a pile of rubble. But Rock of Ages’ otherworldly landscape is the real deal. More compelling than any computergenerated image, it has served as an intergalactic backdrop for two Hollywood films: Star Trek (2009) and Batman & Robin (1997).

Americana artist Norman Rockwell was so inspired by the place that he memorialized the quarry’s work in two separate paintings.

Tourists, too, dig the sight of this mammoth monolith — or so I’d heard. On a recent Saturday, my 9-year-old son, David, and I struck out for Graniteville to see if the quarry does indeed rock

Our trip began with lunch at the Cornerstone Pub & Kitchen in downtown Barre. It was a tad upscale, but I couldn’t resist eating somewhere with the word “stone” in its name.

David was delighted to find macaroni and cheese on the menu, albeit with the added ingredients of bacon and jalapeños. I dove into my towering edamame burger with reckless abandon. We demolished our impressively plated edibles, then took o for Rock of Ages. The drive is fewer than 10 minutes from downtown Barre.

David and I reveled in the visitor’s center air conditioning as we learned about the quarry’s 128-year history. The place became a mecca for the granite industry when the railroad reached Barre in the late 1800s. Immigrants came from all over the world — Scotland, Italy, Norway, Finland, Spain and Canada — to work in the quarries and factories. Consequently, Graniteville’s population grew from 2000 in 1880 to more than 12,000 by 1910.

We developed a morbid fascination with the gift shop, in which you can buy everything from granite ice cubes to handcrafted crypts. But my recalcitrant child decided he needed to purchase a shiny stone from Brazil. Sigh.

Reluctantly departing the cool building, we headed out into the sweltering sunlight to try Rock of Ages’ outdoor bowling alley, a single lane of fun. Players have to stack the plastic pins themselves, and the balls are made of rubber. The lane itself was carved from granite, gutters and all.

BERCAW

FILE: PAT LEWIS

A view of this bedrock would undoubtedly have reduced cartoon quarry worker Fred Flintstone to a pile of rubble.

Tickets for a guided tour of the quarry are a reasonable $5 or less per person. The 40-minute tour, which includes a short ride on a yellow school bus, is the only way to get a view down into the majestic — and still functioning — worksite.

Our peppy tour guide mentioned that, despite the terrifying heights, the work of extracting granite has become much safer since the industry’s early years. He also told us there’s enough granite in these hills to keep workers busy for another 4500 years.

Someone asked if Rock of Ages was in the business of making granite countertops, in addition to its well-known gravestones and memorials. The guide answered that consumers don’t tend to fancy gray counters, but the corporation owns other quarries that produce more popular shades of white, red and black.

After gaping into the quarries’ depths, David and I headed back to the reality of gaping at sinkholes in Burlington. But we’re glad to know that Graniteville will rock on long after we’re gone.

Rock of Ages

558 graniteville Rd., graniteville, 800-421-0166, rockofages.com

Know before you go:

the Rock of ages visitor’s center is open Mondays through saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. the 40-minute guided quarry tour operates each of those days, from 9:15 a.m.-3:35 p.m. tour rates: $5 for adults, $4.50 for seniors, $2.75 for ages 6 to 12 and free for kids under 6.

artists cut, polish and carve granite in the factory, which is open for self-guided observation Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Visitors can cut a design into the stone themselves in the sandblast Experience, available Mondays through Fridays for a fee.

Where to eat:

the visitor’s center offers drinks and snacks from vending machines; the location is also great for a family picnic. you can pick up a healthy spread en route from Hunger mountain coop (623 stone cutters Way, Montpelier).

cornerstone Pub & Kitchen (47 n. Main st., Barre) serves lunch and dinner tuesdays through saturdays, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. the restaurant is great for grown-ups and is also completely kid-friendly. We spent a total of $20 on our two-person meal.

Also nearby:

Limehurst Lake campgrounds (4104 Rt. 14, Williamstown), just nine miles south of Barre, offers a sandy beach, two diving boards, a float, a waterslide, a playground and a game room. pets are welcome. For information, visit limehurstlake.com.

Hiking Through History: Little River State Park

By cARA m ezi TT

Our family didn’t let near-daily showers in June and July rain on our parade With two energetic little boys — Will, 6, and Cullen, 3 — we’re looking for outdoor activities to help “get the wiggles out” regardless of the weather. One of our favorite places to explore, rain or shine, is Little River State Park in Waterbury.

We got hooked on Little River last summer, after spending two amazing weekends camping there. Just a 20-minute drive from our house, the park gives us all-inclusive access to campgrounds, paved roads for riding bikes, small brooks and the Waterbury Reservoir for swimming, boating and fishing. But it wasn’t until recently that we got to explore its extensive trail network.

My husband was away for the day, so it was up to me to lead an adventure on a drizzly morning. Waterproofed in mud boots and rain jackets, my boys and I grabbed a map and brochure at the ranger station and started down the park’s Stevenson Brook Trail.

It rained off and on during our relatively easy hike. We discovered countless natural features for the boys to climb on — from crazy

Kids learn about the quarry’s history

sculptor stanislaw Lutostanski works on a monument

Will and cullen mezitt on the stevenson Brook Trail

We discovered countless natural features for the boys to climb on.

Day-cations

continueD from p. 17

tangles of exposed tree roots to huge rocks on the side of the brook. The trail took us into the woods, across beautiful bridges, up a rock staircase and alongside a by-then sunny meadow.

Back in the shade of the trees, we were surprised to find an old wagon wheel peeking up through the dirt and underbrush. We had connected to the Little River History Hike, which, our brochure explained, was really a “journey through time.”

Fifty families lived here in the 1800s, in a thriving timber-mill community sustained by industry brought to the area by the Waterbury railroad. But by the early 1900s, the younger generations had abandoned their family farms in search of an easier life. Settlement ruins are scattered all over Little River; finding traces of this long-gone mountain

village fueled our imaginations throughout the hike.

“Mama, is that a choo-choo train?” asked Cullen as we came upon the rusty remains of the Waterbury Last Block Co. Sawmill. Nope — according to a trail marker, the machine was used to mill timber for ammunition cases and gunstocks during World War I. But engines are engines in the eyes of a 3-year-old!

settlement ruins are scattered all over Little River; finding traces of this long-gone mountain village fueled our imaginations throughout the hike.

Soon we met up with the Dalley Loop Trail, where we discovered stone foundations of houses, old culverts and bridges. More descriptive trail markers here described the crops the 1800s settlers grew and the number of livestock they kept.

As we approached a clearing, we spotted an old farmhouse. We’d made it to the Almeron Goodell farm, site of the last standing historic structure in Little River State Park; everything else was either destroyed or dismantled and moved when the land was acquired for public use.

Timber-mill ruins at Little River state Park

Waterbury Reservoir

“I see the village!” exclaimed Will. Both boys took off running.

Near the end of our hike, the boys were fascinated by the remains of a huge stone culvert under the road. A trail marker explained that it was a “high bridge,” used to support the passage of trucks and wagons on the rough dirt roads up the mountain. Will took out his little camera and snapped away.

In all, we walked more than two miles, stopping for quite a few snack breaks along the way. This small portion of the trail system took us about

Little River state Park

3444 Little River Rd., Waterbury, 244-7103, vtstateparks.com/htm/ littleriver.htm

Know before you go:

Little River state Park is open daily, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. or sunset (whichever is earlier), through Columbus Day Weekend. Day-use admission is $3 for adults, $2 for ages 4 to 13 and free for kids under 4. Boat rentals are available. there are multiple bathroom facilities throughout the park.

I recommend bringing a second set of shoes and clothes — our feet got wet on the hike. And don’t forget bathing suits and towels; I’ve found that if I put kids in front of water, they are going to take a dip, even if we hadn’t planned on swimming. there’s a beach where they can venture in. For a list of Nature Center programs, visit vtstateparks.com/pdfs/little_ river_current.pdf.

two hours; lunch could not come soon enough. It was still sunny when we reached the car, so we drove straight to one of the park’s beaches for a picnic. The boys scarfed down every bit of their sandwiches and played by the reservoir, skipping stones and searching for minnows along the shore.

With so many different activities offered at one location, Little River State Park has become our go-to spot for outdoor fun. We can’t wait to return for our next adventure — even if it’s in the rain. K

Where to eat:

We brought a picnic lunch of fresh fruit and sandwiches for the beach, plus nuts and dried fruit to keep our energy levels up during the hike. If you’re looking to grab dinner on the way home, try the Blue stone (15 stowe st., Waterbury), a nearby hot spot serving rustic pizza with fresh, local ingredients. It’s a family favorite. Or stop in at on the Rise (39 Esplanade, Richmond). It offers an extensive menu of meat-free favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner — including the best veggie burger around. there’s a great playground on the property if the kids have any wiggles left inside.

Also nearby:

Ben and Jerry’s Factory (1281 Waterbury stowe Rd., Waterbury) has guided factory tours, a scoop shop, an outdoor Flavor graveyard and space for picnicking. cold Hollow cider mill (3600 Waterburystowe Rd., Waterbury Center) sells fresh-pressed cider and cider doughnuts year-round and offers plenty of free snack samples.

AUGUST 3

Plymouth Old Home Day: Wagon rides, BBQ, music, historic kids’ games

Calvin Coolidge, Plymouth notCh

AUGUST

Family Fun

AUGUST 17–18

Living History Encampment: Drills, musket and artillery demos, kids activities; hourly Bennington monument, Bennington

Will and cullen mezitt skip stones at Waterbury Reservoir

From left: Lake Monsters player Xavier Macklin with Mark, Sarah and Emma Trombley, and teammate Christopher Wolfe

In 1995, Freda Tutt was sitting in the stands at Centennial Field, taking in a Vermont Expos baseball game with her son, when a message crackled across the public address system.

“They made an announcement at the end of a game that they were looking for host families for the last few weeks of the season,” Tutt recalls in a recent phone conversation. “My son, who was 10 at the time, decided that we had to have a player live with us.”

Through the team’s host-family program, they ended up inviting Puerto Rican pitcher Juan Rosado into their Essex Junction home for the remainder of that season. Tutt says her son, Jon Passaretti, and Rosado hit it o immediately.

“They went everywhere together,” she says. “They connected right away.”

That’s a good thing, considering the two shared a bunk bed in Passaretti’s room.

“Jon slept on the top bunk and Juan slept on the bottom bunk,” says Tutt.

“It was like having a big brother,” says Passaretti from his home in North Carolina.

Passaretti, who is now on active duty in the Navy, recalls playing catch with Rosado on the field at Centennial. After games, the pitcher would often bring him into the team clubhouse — sacred ground in professional baseball rarely open to non-players. Their relationship grew so close that the Tutt family later visited Rosado and his relatives in Puerto Rico.

For the 19 seasons since, Tutt and her husband, Mike Tutt, have continued to host players from Vermont’s minor-league baseball team — first called the Vermont Expos, now the Vermont Lake Monsters. Though the players are technically pros, they don’t get paid much, and they hail from as far away as Central America and the Caribbean. They need local housing for the summer.

Host families get free tickets to games and a stipend to cover food costs, among other modest benefits. The players get food, shelter and, on occasion, a lift to the ballpark. But as the Tutts’ experience shows, hosting players is about more than just giving them a place to crash.

Brian Pine and his family have housed eight Lake Monsters players in their Burlington home over the past six years. “It’s really neat to have someone

Home Base

Why Vermont families open their doors to Lake Monsters

BY DAN BOLLES

added in to your family,” says Pine. “They become interwoven into your life and your kids’ lives, too.”

Like the Tutts, the Pines became a host family because they thought it would be a good experience for their kids. They hoped having a pro player around the house would give their sons — Eli, 13, and Austin, 18 — a better understanding of the sacrifice and dedication it takes to play baseball at a high level.

“They both love the game,” says Pine. “Like any kids, they dream about what it would be like if you stay with it and get good and play professionally.”

This year, the Pines are hosting Herschel “Boog” Powell, an outfielder from Mission Viejo, Calif. The 20-yearold spent a year in junior college in California before going pro but had otherwise never been away from home, let alone across the country to Vermont.

“Burlington is pretty di erent from home,” Powell says from the living room of the Pines’ house in the Old North End. “But it’s an awesome place.”

Powell says he and Eli have become fast friends, bonding over a shared love of video games and, of course, baseball — Eli plays in a Babe Ruth League in Burlington.

“I’m rarely in my room unless I’m going to bed,”

Powell says of his sparse but comfortable second-floor bedroom. “I’m usually down here hanging out with Eli and Austin.”

Austin plays American Legion baseball, a competitive level after high school. Powell says he gives the older Pine boy baseball pointers on occasion, but since they’re closer in age, their conversations mostly revolve around bigger topics.

“We talk more about life in general,” says Powell. “Since he’ll be going next year, we talk about college a lot, what to do, what not to do.”

By nature, the lifestyle of a minor-league baseball player is one of uncertainty; most will never make it to the majors. At any moment, a player could learn that he has been demoted, cut or traded — there are likely more than a few “players to be named later” on any given Vermont roster. That’s pressure enough for anyone, especially ball players who are practically still kids themselves. Many of them, like Powell, are away from their families for the first time, so having a place to call home is critical.

“The Pines have made it so I don’t get homesick,” says Powell. “They act like they’re my family.”

According to Lake Monsters representative Kate Echo, the team’s housing model is employed by most lower-level minor-league franchises, from rookie ball to high Single-A.

“It is a pretty standard practice across the board,” she says in a recent phone call.

Echo has been the Lake Monsters’ merchandise and accounting manager for four years, and also oversees the host-family program. With Freda Tutt’s help, Echo coordinates the placement of the team’s 30 players — this year into 18 households. She generally advises host families to take in more than one player at a time.

“It gives the other guy a buddy,” she says, “someone to hang out with. It’s a little less awkward.”

More than two, however, can get a bit out of hand.

The Tutts typically host two players a year, but last summer they

guy

TROMBLEY, HOST PARENT

Home Base

continued from p. 21

put up five at once — eight total over the course of the season — squeezed into three bedrooms in their raised ranch.

“That was a little crazy,” Tutt admits. “Those guys can eat a lot of food.”

Host families are free to set their own rules for players, ranging from having guests and curfews to whether of-age athletes can consume alcohol in the house. The only requirement

for families is that they provide a room with a door — and, of course, a bed.

The players “need a space they can go to and get away, get a good night’s sleep and be at their best to perform,” says Echo.

Echo notes that the Lake Monsters don’t do background checks on either the players or the families, noting the team has never had a problem with safety. She explains that a variety of factors determine where she places the players, including which ones have cars and, in the case of foreign players, fluency in English.

Herschel “Boog” Powell and the Pines having some

home

The Lake Monsters dugout during a game

Boog Powell on the big screen at a recent game

“You get a mixed bag of guys who can speak English really well, some who can speak it a little and some who can’t at all,” says Echo. “We try to reach out to as many people as we can in the community that speak Spanish, which is a little difficult in this area.”

Pine says his family has hosted Spanish-speaking players in the past, but they asked for an Englishspeaking player this season.

“My wife speaks some Spanish,” he says. “But [the language barrier] was always a challenge, because you want the players to feel comfortable. And you want something a little bit more for you and your family, too. It’s not just about getting a free ticket [to the games].”

Mike Trombley sees other intangible benefits from hosting Lake Monsters players. He and his family have been participating in the hosting program for four years. He says that having professional players in his South Burlington home has been a good learning experience for his kids: 14-year-old Jake and Emma, 11.

“Everyone is given a gift,” he says, referring to the players’ baseball skills. “But you still have to work hard at that gift, which is good for my kids to see.”

This year, the Trombleys are hosting Chris Wolfe, a 23-year-old shortstop from Houston, Texas.

Trombley says Wolfe goes out of his way to spend time with the children.

“He comes home and plays catch with my son,” he says. “That’s pretty special. How many kids can say they play catch with a professional baseball player?”

He adds that his daughter, whom he describes as “terrified of any sport with a ball,” has taken an interest in baseball since Wolfe arrived.

“It makes it special for her to go to a game and have someone to root for,” he says.

The Tutts, Pines and Trombleys stay in touch with most of the players they’ve hosted and keep track of their progress.

“I’ve been to weddings, I get birth announcements,” says Freda Tutt, who refers to her players as “host sons.” She adds that one of them calls her every Mother’s Day.

Of the three families, only the Tutts have had a player reach the major leagues: all-star outfielder Jason Bay, who played with the Vermont Expos in 2000. Bay is now with the Seattle Mariners after playing with the Boston Red Sox from 2008 to ’09 and the New York Mets from 2010 to ’12. The Tutts also hosted a Lake Monsters coach, Rick Eckstein, who went on to become a hitting coach with the Washington Nationals.

Tutt takes pride in being “just one stop along the way” for her players — and the occasional coach — and will often tweet about their progress, in baseball and other things.

“I follow their baseball careers,” she says. “And when they’re no longer in baseball, I follow their new careers.”

Tutt points out that, when she first signed up to host players, she did it for her son. “I thought it would be a great way to give him a strong role model,” she says.

“As the years went on, and my son grew up, it became more about giving these guys an opportunity not to have to worry about anything other than playing baseball, to give them a safe place to come home and eat dinner,” she continues. “I always thought that if my son was away from home like they are, I would want someone watching out for my kid, too.” K

For more info on the Vermont Lake monsters host family program, contact Kate Echo at kate@vermontlakemonsters.com.

The Pines have made it so i don’t get homesick. They act like they’re my family.

HErscHEL

“Boog” PowELL, ouTFiELdEr, VErmonT LaKE monsTErs

MINI ADVENTURE CAMP: Ages 3-5. Mon-Fri sessions from 7:30 AM-5 PM, thru August 23. $265/child/week.

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• Private and Group Lessons

For reservations and more information, visit SUGARBUSH CoM or call 800.53.SUGAR.

Ride On!

Summer, like all good things, must come to an end. But it goes out with a bang at the CHAMPLAIN VALLEY FAIR, which boasts “the 10 best days” of the season. Thousands converge at the state’s largest fair for their fill of fried food and Ferris wheel. The 4-H shows, demolition derbies and nightly concerts on the grandstand are perennial favorites, but there are plenty of other highlights for the kiddie set, from physical comedy to fire eating, magic to acrobatics. A daily parade at 5 p.m. goes to show that any day on the midway is a cause for celebration.

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY FAIR: Saturday, August 24, through Monday, September 2, 10 a.m.-midnight, at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction. All ages. $5-12; free for kids under 5; $30 ride bracelets; additional tickets required for grandstand concerts. See website for special promotions. Info, 878-5545. champlainvalleyfair.org

SPOTLIGHTS AND LISTINGS BY CAROLYN FOX

1899

MOUNTAIN ROAD, STOWE 802.253.4411 PIECASSO.COM

ESSEX • SOUTH BURLINGTON • WILLISTON

Independent • Healthy • Promoting Balanced Lives Summer Camp 2013

CAMP EDGE

is a place of innovation, fun and fitness for school age children ages 5-12. Our program offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities including sports, craft projects, field trips and more! Our campers have an active summer playing and learning with their friends! Campers are placed in one of three groups based on age:

Mighty 5s (5 years old)

Extreme Edgers (6-8 years old)

Activities offered by CAMP EDGE:

K IDS C AESAR S ALAD

Chopped romaine, Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese. $4 add all-natural grilled chicken $3

K IDS M IXED G REEN S ALAD

Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, choice of Ranch or Balsamic. $4 add all-natural grilled chicken $3

E DDIE S PA G HETTI

Made with marinara or butter. $5 add 2 meatballs for $1.50

P ERSONAL P IE FOR K IDS

Comes with cheese & choice of 1 topping. $6 add additional toppings for $.75

C HI CK EN T ENDERS

Free-range chicken tenders. Served with hand-cut fries or side salad or steamed broccoli. $6

H A M BUR G ER OR C HEESEBUR G ER

Local all-natural beef. Served with hand-cut fries or side salad or steamed broccoli. $6.50

F RUIT & C HEDDAR C HEESE C UBES

Chef’s selection of fresh fruit & cheddar cheese cubes. $6

P IE C ASSO ’ S L ASA G NA

Made with beef & pork, marinara sauce, fresh basil, layered with ricotta & mozzarella cheese. $7

H U MM US & V E GG IES

House made lemon-garlic hummus served with veggies for dipping. $5

P IZZA R OLL

Fresh baked dough wrapped with mozzarella, herbs & choice of pepperoni or broccoli. $5

G RILLED C HEESE

•

Arts & Crafts

Athletic Activities

• Music

• Field Trips

• Nature and Wilderness Exploration

• Swimming (indoor & outdoor)

• Recreational Games

• Storytelling

• Tennis Instruction

• Climbing Wall

Session VIII 8/5-8/9 Survivor

Session IX 8/12-8/16 Blast Off

Session X

8/19-8/23 Wacky Week

Essex (802) 879-7734 x 128 • Williston (802) 860-3343 x 620 • S. Burlington (802) 658-0080 or (802) 658-0002 EDGEVT.COM For more specific questions, please contact us at: Essex: SarahC@edgevt.com • South Burlington: HeatherH@edgevt.com • Williston: KindraJ@edgevt.com

present:

1980’s theme featuring costume parade, working dog demos and fun for the whole family! Plus, register your dog for the DockDogs competition. Benefits local animal welfare groups.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8

Adults: $10, Children 5-18: $5 Dogs are free!

k4t-Theedgesummercamps0713.indd 1 7/26/13 9:22 AM 26 Kids VT August 2013 K ids VT .com

museum

Session VII 7/29-8/2 Animal Planet

Go the Distance

on august 25, adults climb 2564 feet to the crest of mount mansfield in the north face race to the top of Vermont. not too far below, kids get in on the action in the mVP HEALTH cArE run For Fun the catamount trail association’s 1K and 3K courses offer rolling, unpaved terrain and a few surprise obstacles for 4- to 14-year-olds. once every child has been awarded a medal, all runners — big and small — can put up their feet at a post-race barbecue celebrating healthy lifestyles.

mVP HEALTH cArE run For Fun: Sunday, August 25, noon-2 p.m., at Midway Lodge, Stowe Mountain Resort. Ages 4-14. $10-15 includes a medal, raffle ticket and commemorative race bib; additional $10 for barbecue ticket. Preregister to race. Info, 864-5794. rtttovt.com/events/kids

1 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Art on Park: White tents house the works of jewelers, potters, painters, fiber artists, food vendors and more. Live musicians play weekly. Park Street, Stowe, 5:308:30 p.m. Free. Info, 793-2101.

Art on the Go: Museum exhibits inspire crafts, games and activities at the Round Barn and Circus Buildings. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Regular museum admission, $5-22; free for children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

Baby & maternity

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

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: Mothers-to-be build

strength, stamina, comfort and a stronger connection to their baby in this all-levels class. Free class coupons are available through midwives and OB/GYNs. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 5:45 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

La Leche League of Essex: Moms bring their little ones to a discussion of parenting and breast-feeding. Pregnant and planning moms are also welcome.

Fairs & Festivals

see dr. first videos “First with Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 383-8544.

community

summervale: Live music, food tastings and kids crafts promise fun under the sun. All ages. Burlington Intervale Center, 5:30-8 p.m. Free admission; cost of food and drink. Info, 660-0440.

High Quality Early Education

Vermont Festival of the Arts: A whoppin’ five-week festival boasts art exhibits, performances and workshops celebrating painting, poetry, crafts, culinary arts and everything in between. Visit vermontartfest.com for details. Various locations, Mad River Valley, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Various prices. Info, 496-6682.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: Fans of cocoa-covered confectioneries experience the tempering and dipping process. All ages. Laughing Moon Chocolates, Stowe, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 253-9591. Lunch at the Library: Kids get a square meal at this Hunger Free Vermont open lunch site. Ages 18 and under. Aldrich Public Library, Barre, noon, Free; call ahead with groups of four or more. Info, 476-7550. milton Farmers market: Farmers, foodies and crafters

come together to celebrate the bounty of the growing season. All ages. Milton High School, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 893-1009.

Top chef shenanigans: Food-lovin’ teens concoct a dish from limited ingredients. Grades 7-12. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Games

shelburne magic club: Illusionists practice card tricks and share their most successful sleights of hand. Grades 5-8. Pierson Library, Shelburne, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

Health & Fitness

itsy Bitsy Yoga: Families try out toddler-friendly poses with songs, stories and games. Ages 5 and under. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

1 THursdAY p.29

martial Arts class: Playful but focused activities build agility, strength, balance and peaceful cooperation. Ages 7-12. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 4-5 p.m. $14 drop-in. Info, 870-0361.

Library & Books

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

Bubbles & Books: Good, clean fun commences as little ones create soap art in the sun. All ages. Wheeler Homestead and Garden Park, South Burlington, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7539. dig into Reading craft & Event series: As part of the summer reading program, participants tune in for hands-on projects. Ages 4-12. Aldrich Public Library, Barre, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 476-7550.

dorothy canfield Fisher Book discussion: Readers voice their opinions of Jennifer Nielson’s The False Prince. Snack provided. Grades 4-8. Milton Public Library, 3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Parent/child Book discussion: Kids and adults come together to chat about Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black’s The Spiderwick Chronicles. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

movies

movies in the Park: Kids screen family classics such as Jumanji and The Wizard of Oz at this drive-in experience — without the cars. Movies start at dark. All ages. Bristol Town Green, 9 p.m. Free. Info, 453-5885.

music

Brown Bag concert series: Dana and Susan Robinson blend contemporary songwriting and Appalachian traditions in folk harmonies. Rain site: Town Hall Theatre. Woodstock Village Green, noon. Donations accepted. Info, 457-3981.

craftsbury chamber Players’ mini concerts: Worldclass musicians present classical works from the baroque to the contemporary era in this special series for children and their families. East Craftsbury Presbyterian Church, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 800-639-3443.

maple Tree Place summer concert series: Bands such as the Rhythm Rockets, Real Deal and SturCrazie sound out hits on the green at this weekly gathering. Maple Tree Place, Williston, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-9100. music With mr. chris: Singer, storyteller and puppeteer Chris Dorman leads kids in song and dance. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

Preschool music: Lively tunes with Peter Alsen or Derek Burkins strike the right note among the wee crowd. For 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. River Road summer concert series: Spectators bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks to fully enjoy outdoor musical entertainment. Sherburne Memorial Library, Killington, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 422-2105.

Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate: Shiver me timbers! Listeners learn about pirate lore and history in a jollygood concert. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

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

Nature & science

digging deep into Reading With Live Animals: Kids journey above and below the forest floor to learn about its inhabitants. Ages 3-10. Colchester Village Meeting House, 2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313. Exploring magnets: Budding scientists experiment with invisible pull. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Great Vermont corn maze: A 10-acre maze of maize lures labyrinth lovers outstanding in their field. The

submit your september event for print by August 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com

Great Vermont Corn Maze, Danville, 10 a.m. $10-15; free for kids under 5. Info, 748-1399.

Hands-on Horticulture: Citizen scientists learn about flowers and soil through craft projects and deep digging. All ages. Fort Ticonderoga, N.Y., 1:30-3:30 p.m. Regular admission, $8-17.50; free for kids under 5. Info, 518-585-2821. mirror, mirror: Little ones use looking glasses to investigate reflection and symmetry. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Vermont instute of Natural science Program: Novice naturalists journey above and below the forest floor, meeting live animals and investigating their survival strategies. All ages. South Hero Community Library, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 372-6209.

ViNs summer Programs: Wilderness lovers gather for songbird feeding time, raptor programs and activities in the “nature nook.” All ages. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission, $11-13; free for members and kids under 4. Info, 359-5000.

Theater

‘Anything Goes’: Very Merry Theatre teens perform this Broadway musical set aboard the ocean liner S.S. American. Rain location: Old Brick Church. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

‘into the Woods’: Twenty local teens star in FlynnArts’ fractured fairy-tale musical about following your dreams. FlynnSpace, Burlington, 7 p.m. $14-16. Info, 863-5966.

2 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Art on the Go: See August 1.

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

Baby & maternity

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

community

Glass-Blowing demos & Food Trucks: Families view art in action as eight mobile vendors serve good grub nearby. All ages. AO Glass Works, Burlington, 5-8 p.m. Free. Info, 488-4455.

Lickity splitz Kids’ consignments: seasonal consignment sale: Savvy shoppers find gently used, name-brand clothing for cheap. Call for consignment details. All ages. Mid Vermont Christian School, White River Junction, 6-9 p.m. $15 registration fee for consignors; free for shoppers. Info, 779-5347.

dance

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

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

Burger Night: Live music and kids activities lend a festive air to a local feast of grilled fare. All ages. Bread & Butter Farm, Shelburne, 4:30-7:30 p.m. Free admission; cost of food and drink. Info, 985-9200.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

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, 3:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 5cornersfarmersmarket@gmail.com.

Lunch at the Library: See August 1.

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, rfmmanager@gmail.com.

stowe Farmers market: Live music, face painting and balloon art add to displays of locally sourced agriculture in the Spruce Plaza. All ages. Stowe Mountain Resort, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 253-7321.

Health & Fitness

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

dancing With my Baby: Rock, reggae, pop, hip-hop and more inspire movement in parents and young dancers. Ages 6 weeks and up. Blue Heron Aikido Studio, Middlebury Municipal Building, 10-11 a.m. $12 drop-in; discount for multiple classes; preregister. Info, 388-3381.

Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment gives tumblers a chance to run free. Ages 7 and under. Pomerleau Family YMCA, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $5-8 per family. Info, 862-8993.

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

music

Brandon summer concert series: Brandon bands play everything from ballads to rock songs to Dixieland jazz in the park. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Central Park, Brandon, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 247-6401.

Friday Night Family Fun series: Live bands and theater companies entertain the masses at this weekly outdoor fête. Maple Street Park, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1375.

Friday Night Live: Local musicians band together for a festive celebration complete with food and vendors. Gazebo Park, Island Pond, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 673-1854.

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

Lunchtime concert: Singer-songwriters, a cappella choirs, circus acrobats and jugglers entertain the lunch crowd at open-air performances held twice a week. Burlington City Hall Park, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166.

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

spanish musical Kids: Amigos learn Latin American songs and games with native Argentinian Constancia Gómez. Ages 1-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

The swing Peepers: Musicians Matt and John offer zany, interactive songs about farming and gardening. Summer-reading prizes and ice cream follow. Wilder Club & Library, Hartford, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 295-6341.

Nature & science

color mixing: Preschoolers and their families blend primary colors into brand-new hues. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Exploring magnets: See August 1.

Foodways Fridays: Children tour the heirloom garden, watching how the 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, $3-12; free for kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

‘Annie’: The sun’ll come out when QNEK Productions stages this uplifting musical about a little orphan. Haskell Free Library and Opera House, Derby Line, 2 & 7:30 p.m. $13-15. Info, 334-2216.

‘Freckleface strawberry’: Based on the book by actress Julianne Moore, this musical production by St. Michael’s Playhouse is full of freckles, dancing and laughter. See calendar spotlight on page 40. McCarthy Arts Center. St. Michael’s College, Colchester, noon. $10. Info, 864-2281.

‘into the Woods’: See August 1, 2 & 7 p.m.

Classes

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

LAKE cHAmPLAiN WALdoRF scHooL PARENT & cHiLd cLAssEs: Circle time, organic snacks and parent support combine to make nourishing classes for the whole family. Children discover skills, songs and friendship. Moon Garden: newborns-beginning walkers; Sun Garden: beginning walkers-20 months; Star Garden: 20 months-3 1/2 years. Caregivers attend classes with their child. 10-week sessions beginning Sep. 12. Location:

All Soul’s Interfaith Gathering, 291 Bostwick Farm Rd., Shelburne. Info: Pam Graham, 985-2827, ext. 12, pgraham@ lakechamplainwaldorfschool.org.

TiNY ToTs: Fun and fitness for the 1-2.5-year-old set (and their ride, too!). Toddlers are ready to play and move, and they’ll do plenty of both at Tiny Tots. Dance, jump, tumble, play games! Get those bodies moving and make some nice social connections with others along the way. 7 Thursday sessions beginning Sep. 12, 11-11:40 a.m. $48/members, $62/community; 8 Thursday sessions beginning Oct. 31, 11-11:40 a.m. $55/ members, $70/community. Location: Winooski YMCA, 32 Mallets Bay Ave. Info: gbymca.org, 655-YMCA.

BusY BodiEs: Stretch and strengthen little bodies ages 2.5-4. Toddlers are made to move, and, at this age, they are also eager to explore. Release that excess energy and channel it into new grooves including improvisational dance, gymnastics, yoga and even ballet. Adults join the class, too – or not. Your choice. 7 Thursday sessions beginning Sep. 12, 1010:45 a.m. $48/members, $62/community; 8 Thursday sessions beginning Oct. 31, 1010:45 a.m. $55/members, $70/community. Location: Winooski YMCA, 32 Mallets Bay Ave. Info: gbymca.org, 655-YMCA. K

3 SATURDAY Arts & crafts

BcA summer Artist market: Kid Zone: Weather permitting, creative types have a blast painting, drawing and printmaking in the park. All ages; parents must accompany their children. Burlington City Hall Park, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $4-5. Info, 865-7166.

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

Kids craft: sharpie T-shirt decorating: Using markers and rubbing alcohol, fledgling fashion designers create cool duds of their own design. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

Baby & maternity

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

community

community Yard sale: Folks browse through 125 tables of household essentials, children’s clothing, books, collectibles, furniture and more. Proceeds benefit the KidSafe Collaborative in its efforts to prevent and address child abuse and neglect. Donation drop-offs: July 31 and August 1, 8 a.m.-7 p.m., and August 2, 8-10 a.m. All ages. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. $1 suggested donation. Info, 863-9626. 3 sATuRdAY, p.30

1 THuRsdAY (continueD)

Lickity Splitz Kids’ Consignments: Seasonal Consignment Sale: See August 2, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

Town-Wide Yard Sale Day: Bargain hunters find deals and steals all through the village. Maps available at the visitor’s center of the Brandon Museum at the Stephen A. Douglas Birthplace, as well as online at brandon.org. Various locations, Brandon, 8 a.m. Free. Info, 247-6401.

Education

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

Fairs & Festivals

Deerfield Valley Blueberry Festival: Feeling blue? Wilmington, Whitingham and Dover make the best of the hue over 10 days with a Big Blue Parade, a Blue Street Fair, blues music and pick-your-own blueberries. Various locations statewide, 6 p.m. Various prices. Info, 464-8092.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

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

Caledonia Farmers Market: Freshly baked goods, veggies, beef and maple syrup figure prominently in

displays of “shop local” options. All ages. 50 Railroad Street, St. Johnsbury, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 592-3088.

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

Chocolate-Dipping Demonstration: See August 1.

Middlebury Farmers Market: Crafts, cheeses, breads, veggies and more vie for spots in shoppers’ totes. All ages. Marble Works District, Middlebury, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 537-4754.

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, 985-2472.

Health & Fitness

Yoga Tots: Toddlers and parents stretch it out in exercises meant to build self-esteem and positive attitudes toward physical activity. Ages 3-6. Highgate Town O ce Building, 9 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Library & Books

Used Book Sale: Bibliophiles gather new reads for their nightstands. All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4095.

Movies

Ben & Jerry’s Summer Outdoor Movie Festival: Cinema lovers screen Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted in the open air. Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Waterbury, dusk. Free. Info, 244-1411.

Story Times

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TUESDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lunch Time Read Aloud: Brown Dog Books & Gifts, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 482-5189.

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

Shelburne Story Time With Webby: Shelburne Museum, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $5-22; free for children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

Music

Cooler in the Mountains Concert Series: National acts steal the stage at family-friendly outdoor shows. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Killington Resort, 3:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 422-6200.

Lyra Summer Music Workshop: Student Gala Concert: Music scholars dazzle audiences on the piano, violin, viola or cello. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 1 p.m. Donations accepted. Info, 728-6464.

Nature & Science

ChampFest: Are you a believer or a skeptic? Cryptozoologists explore the facts and folklore of Lake Champlain’s monster through daily story times, films and animal-care demos. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $9.50-12.50; free for kids under 3. Info, 864-1848.

Great Vermont Corn Maze: See August 1. Heritage Chicken Day: Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Visitors can ponder this big question as they visit newly hatched chicks, study di erent livestock breeds and engage in farm-life stories and crafts. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular admission, $3-12; free for kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Learn S’more About Camping: Want to sleep under the stars? Learn how in this campsite clinic, where you’ll practice setting up your gear and building a fire. Quechee State Park, Hartford, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 888-409-7579.

Planetarium Presentation: An astronomy expert

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

South Burlington Tiny Tot Explorers: Wheeler Homestead and Garden Park, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539.

St. Johnsbury Story Time: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

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

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Burlington Baby Blossoms: Wheeler Homestead and Garden Park, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539.

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

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

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

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

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

THURSDAY

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

Colchester Preschool Summer Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, Aug. 1, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

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

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

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

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

St. Albans Story Hour: See Monday.

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

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

FRIDAY

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

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

Enosburg Story Hour: Enosburg Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

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

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

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

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

South Burlington Bookworms: Wheeler Homestead and Garden Park, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539.

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

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

Super Science Day: Splash! Exploring Water: Curious kiddos float homemade boats, make liquid rainbows and test surface tension at a day devoted to getting wet. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

VINS Summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

‘Annie’: See August 2, 7:30 p.m.

‘Freckleface Strawberry’: See August 2, 10 a.m.

‘Into the Woods’: See August 1, 2 & 7 p.m.

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

4 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1, 10:05 a.m.

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

Shelburne Prenatal Yoga: Yoga postures, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques nurture bodies and create a loving connection between moms-to-be

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

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

SATURDAY

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

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

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

South Burlington Story Time: See Wednesday.

St. Johnsbury Story Time: See Tuesday, first Saturday of every month, 10:30 a.m.

SUNDAY

Williston Russian Story Time: Buttered Noodles, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 730-2673.

3 TUESDAY (CONTINUED)

and their babies. Women at all stages of pregnancy are welcome. Yoga Roots, Shelburne, 4:30-6 p.m. $15 drop-in. Info, 985-0090.

community

community Yard sale: See August 3, 10 a.m.-noon.

Lickity splitz Kids’ consignments: seasonal consignment sale: See August 2, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Fairs & Festivals

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

Lake champlain dragon Boat Festival: Aquatic athletes, community members and breast cancer survivors paddle their way to victory on 41-foot boats. Onlookers enjoy lively entertainment, food and children’s activities on shore. Proceeds benefit Survivorship NOW.

All ages. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 999-5478.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Power of Produce (PoP) club: Kids register for a Passport to Health at the Winooski Farmers Market, which earns them a tote, button and tokens for fruits, veggies or plant starts. Additional children’s activities focus on food, farming and nutrition. Ages 5-12. Winooski Falls Way, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 413-446-4684.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See August 2.

music

concert on the Green: Local bands sound out catchy tunes in the center of town. Rain location: Danville United Methodist Church. Danville Village Green, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, 684-2256.

driftwood: Folk, rock and blues musicians offer acoustic harmonies and conga rhythms in the great outdoors. Branbury State Park, Salisbury, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 888-409-7579.

music on the Porch: Hard Scrabble, Dave Keller, the Growlers and Seth Yacavone are among the artists featured in this weekly lineup of tunes. Rusty Parker Memorial Park, Waterbury, 1-3 p.m. Donations accepted for Food 4 Farmers. Info, 882-2700.

Nature & science

champFest: See August 3.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Leafcutter Ants: Nature fans investigate the secret lives of “insect fungus farmers.” All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Planetarium Presentation: See August 3.

sound science: Good listeners explore how audio travels through different materials. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

sundays for Fledglings: Aspiring junior birders learn all about feathers and flying through observation, research and goofing around. Ages 5-10. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $3-6; preregister. Info, 434-2167.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

‘Freckleface strawberry’: See August 2, 10 a.m. & noon.

‘into the Woods’: See August 1, 2 p.m.

5 MONDAY

Arts & crafts

Earth-scavenged statement Jewelry: Teens fashion accessories from items found in nature. Ages 12-18. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Garden stepping stone Workshop: Creative adolescents make awesome outdoor decor. Ages 12 and up. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: Pregnant mamas focus on movements that will help prepare their bodies for labor and birth. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7 p.m. $15 drop-in. Info, 778-0300.

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

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1. Lunch at the Library: See August 1.

Games

Big insane Games: Fun-lovin’ youngsters flock to the library lawn for obstacles, catapults and silliness. Ages 4-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 1-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Health & Fitness

Hoopla: Large, easy-to-use hoops and great music make for a funky dance-fitness experience for all levels. All ages. Middlebury Municipal Gym, 6:45-8 p.m. $5-12 drop-in; discount for multiple classes. Info, 388-3381.

Yoga class: Playful breathing, stretching and relaxation techniques build mindfulness and body awareness. Ages 6-12. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 4-5 p.m. $14 drop-in. Info, 870-0361.

Library & Books

summer monday Book sale: Little literati and their grownups thumb through hundreds of hardcovers, paperbacks, puzzles, CDs and DVDs. Proceeds support library collections and activities. Rutland Free Library, 4-8 p.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Write Now!: Best-selling authors-to-be get inspired to start penning that book or poem. Ages 12-18. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Young Adult Advisory Board: Sixth through 12th graders help make the library a destination for their peers. Ages 12-18. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

music

Preschool music: See August 1, 10:45 a.m.

Nature & science

champFest: See August 3.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Honeybees: Families catch the buzz about the seethrough hive on the museum’s second floor. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Pocket Kites: Kids make their own simple craft to take to the skies. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

Tom Joyce: The “magic man” captivates kiddos with mystifying sleights of hand. This summer-reading

6 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

craftacular Tuesdays: Kids get caught up in low-

projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, first Tuesday of every month, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.

Fair Food

Animals

Bring your whole family out to Vermont’s greatest show. Come be amazed by all there is to do and see, all included in your one admission price. e Doc Swan Magic show, a wild west show, the racing pigs, cooking demonstrations, live music stages, the antique tractor display, e list goes on and on. And, of course, there are tons of animals for the kids to visit with. So come spend a day, or three, at the ten best days of summer, the Champlain Valley Fair! Save

28 Kids Celebration

Competitions & Displays

29 29 Garden Center

30 30

TheRacingMcKenzie Pigs

finale features a raffle drawing and free books. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

tech

Merry Maritime

the LaKe champLain mariTime FesTiVaL sails back into Burlington this month for four days of aquatic entertainment. Families channel captain Jack sparrow as they race along the waterfront in the Pirate 5K run/Walk, attended by swashbuckling singer-songwriter rockin’ ron the Friendly Pirate. Multiple stages and festival tents offer international crafts, food and music, while the lake champlain Antique & classic Vintage Boat show offers a glimpse into our region’s maritime history. Between paddleboard races, comedy shows and ticketed evening concerts, there are plenty of reasons to drop anchor and stay a while.

6 TuEsdAY (continueD)

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

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1, 4 p.m.

Postnatal Yoga: See August 4, 10:30 a.m.

community

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

milton’s National Night out: Community spirit soars as neighbors gather for food, tunes from Bobby and the Retrotones, children’s games, bike crafts and more. Shine your porch light from 9-11 p.m. to show solidarity in crime prevention. All ages. Milton Municipal Complex, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-1009.

Vermont Lake monsters Game: The Green Mountain State’s minor-league baseball team steps up to the plate at a home game. Centennial Field, Burlington, 7:05 p.m. $5-10. Info, 655-4200.

Fairs & Festivals

Addison county Fair & Field days: Vermont’s largest agricultural fair hosts horse, miniature-donkey and sheep shows, tractor pulls, kiddie rides and live entertainment. Addison County Field Days Grounds, Vergennes, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m. $5-12; free for kids under 6. Info, 545-2557.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Lunch at the Library: See August 1.

Games

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

Health & Fitness

dancing With my Baby: See August 2.

martial Arts class: See August 1.

R.i.P.P.E.d. 4 Kids: This unique fitness formula — short for “rhythm, intervals, power, plyometrics, endurance and diet” — includes nutrition tips and fun movements to music. Ages 7-12. North End Studio, Burlington, 1-2 p.m. $6. Info, 578-9243.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2. 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. $3-5; kids 1K is free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Library & Books

dig into Reading craft & Event series: See August 1. End of the summer Reading Program Festival: Balloons, face painting, games and refreshments celebrate bookish achievements. All ages. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Garden story Time: Little ones listen to seasonal tales and tunes under the sun. Ages 5 and under. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Quechee summer Tuesdays: Readers tune in for themed songs, experiments and outdoor adventures. Ages 6-11. Quechee Public Library, 4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 295-1232.

movies

Ben & Jerry’s summer outdoor movie Festival: See August 3. Ben & Jerry’s, Burlington, dusk. Free. Info, 862-9620.

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

music

children’s sing-Along With Lesley Grant: Parents sip coffee while wee ones break into song with a local musician and educator. Preschool-age kids and younger.

The Bees Knees, Morrisville, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 888-7889.

Fairfax summer concert series: Families tune in for the Fairfax Fletcher Westford Band. All ages. Fairfax Middle School, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Gazebo concert: Local musicians strike a chord with the community. Stowe Free Library, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 253-7792.

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

Nature & science

champFest: See August 3.

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

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Kitchen chemistry: Mad scientists combine common household products, which yield unexpectedly entertaining results. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Nature Walk for Kids: Intrepid explorers observe plant and animal life while wandering through the great outdoors. All ages. Fort Ticonderoga, 10:30 a.m. Regular admission, $8-17.50; free for kids under 5. Info, 518-585-2821.

Time Travel Tuesdays: Families blast into the past, experiencing the late 19th century through farmhouse chores and pastimes. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission, $3-12; free for kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

7 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Booktivity: Tie-dye T-shirts: Fledgling fashion designers create a swirly piece of wearable art. Ages 5-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 2 & 3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Kids craft: Journal making: Scribblers decorate a notebook for creative visual and written self-expression. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

Baby & maternity

Breast-Feeding mom support: New mothers get to know each other during this informative and informal session. Children welcome. Grace Church, Rutland, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 747-8665.

community

smArt: Kids, mini Golf mania: Fore! Visitors tee off, playing nine holes inspired by the museum’s grounds and buildings. Shelburne Museum, 4-7 p.m. Regular museum admission, $5-22; free for children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

Education

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

Fairs & Festivals

Addison county Fair & Field days: See August 6, 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

caledonia Farmers market: Freshly baked goods, veggies, beef and maple syrup figure prominently in displays of “shop local” options. All ages. Route 2, Danville, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 592-3088.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1. cookie decorating: Budding bakers doll up treats with sprinkles, frosting, sugar and nuts. Barrio Bakery, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-8278.

7 WEdNEsdAY, p.34

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

For schedule, go to hop.dartmouth.edu.

Playgroups

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

Essex Open Gym: Regal Gymnastics Academy, 1-2 p.m. & 7:30-9 p.m. $8; free for children under 18 months. Info, 655-3300.

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

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

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

TUESDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)

Farmers Market Story Walk: Families explore the South Hero Farmers Market page by page, starting at the Vermont Department of Health table. St. Rose of Lima Parish, South Hero, 3-6 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Lunch at the Library: See August 1.

Middlebury Farmers Market: See August 3.

Woodstock Farmers Market: 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

Chess Group: Strategists gather around the checkered board to learn, play and “kibbitz about playing.” Ages 8 and up. Norman Williams Public Library, Woodstock, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.

Lego Afternoons: Youngsters create freely from big buckets of building blocks. Parents encouraged to send a snack; popcorn provided. Ages 6 and up. Lincoln Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.

Lego Club: Amateur architects piece together creative scale models of cityscapes. Lawrence Memorial Library, Bristol, 3:15-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.

Legos for the Little Ones: Builders fashion architecturally sound constructions. Ages 5-7. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See August 2.

Tiny Tumblers Open Gym: See August 2.

Library & Books

Dorothy Canfield Fisher Book Discussion: Bibliophiles voice likes and dislikes about award-nominated books, such as Sara Pennypacker’s Summer of the Gypsy Moths. Ages 8-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Harry Potter Club: Wannabe wizards and witches sew their own scarves while listening to The Tales of Beadle the Bard. All ages. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

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

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

WEDNESDAY

Barre Open Gym: See Monday.

Charlotte Playgroup: Charlotte Central School, 9:3010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-5820.

Essex Junction RU12? LGBTQA Family Playgroup: Leaps and Bounds Child Development Center, Aug. 14, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 860-7812.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday, 1-2 p.m.

Georgia Summer Playgroup: Georgia Beach, 10 a.m.noon, Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

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

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

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

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

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

THURSDAY

Alburgh Playgroup: NCSS Family Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

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

Movies

‘A Bug’s Life’: It’s ants versus grasshoppers in this popular animated flick from 1998. Snacks provided. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Music

Community Evenings at the Farm: Families set up their lawn chairs and blankets for local food and musical entertainment. Shelburne Farms, gates open at 5:30 p.m.; concert, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 985-8686.

Craftsbury Chamber Players’ Mini Concerts: See August 1. UVM Recital Hall, Burlington, 4:30 p.m.

Lunchtime Concert: See August 2.

Preschool Music With Mr. Chris: A fun, tune-filled gathering strikes the right note. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Nature & Science

Beginners’ Bird Watching: Eagle-eyed youngsters learn how to identify and describe birds through sketching and discussion. Ages 10 and up. Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Jericho, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 899-4962.

ChampFest: See August 3.

Great Vermont Corn Maze: See August 1.

Hands-On Horticulture: See August 1.

Microscopic Investigations: Hand lenses and microscopes help kids discover there’s more to the world than meets the eye. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200. Mirror, Mirror: See August 1.

VINS Summer Programs: See August 1.

Wacky Wednesday: Hop Into Habitats: Amphibian fans create a fun and functional habitat for their frog friends. Ages 8 and up. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 12:30 p.m. Regular museum admission, $9.50-12.50; free for kids under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

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

Burlington Family Play: See Tuesday.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday, 7:30-9 p.m.

Milton Playgroup: See Tuesday.

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

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

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

FRIDAY

Bradford Story Hour: Bradford Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 222-4536.

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

Essex Open Gym: See Monday, 7-9 p.m.

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

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

Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Recreation Center, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Randolph Toddler Time: Kimball Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 728-5073.

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

Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7147; jakruwet@yahoo.com.

Wagon Ride Wednesdays: Giddyup, let’s go! Horses carry wagons through the operating dairy farm. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Regular museum admission, $3-12; free for kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Theater

‘Anything Goes’: See August 1. Ages 5 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

‘Jack and the Beanstalk’: Thirteen-year-old Ian Keene joins the Folk and Fairytale Project: The Next Generation in an adaptation of this magical, sky-high myth. An ice cream social follows. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

8 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

Art on Park: See August 1.

Wax Relief Textile Design: Fashionistas use dyes, wax crayons, melted wax and more to design a T-shirt or bandana. Ages 12-17. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1.

Community

Summervale: See August 1.

Fairs & Festivals

Addison County Fair & Field Days: See August 6, 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

Chocolate-Dipping Demonstration: See August 1.

Lunch at the Library: See August 1.

Milton Farmers Market: See August 1.

SATURDAY

Morrisville Weekend Baby Chat: Lamoille Family Center, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.

South Burlington Tots & Tykes Open Gym: Chamberlin Elementary School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4108.

SUNDAY

Essex Open Gym: See Monday, 1-2:30, 2:30-4 & 4-5:30 p.m.

Games

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

Health & Fitness

Itsy Bitsy Yoga: See August 1.

Martial Arts Class: See August 1.

Library & Books

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

Dig Into Reading Craft & Event Series: See August 1. Pirate Popsicle Party: Triumphant summer readers celebrate with fun, games and frozen treats. All ages. South Burlington Community Library, 7-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 652-7539.

Stuffed-Animal Sleepover: Kids drop o their fuzzy friends for a pajama party, then pick them up the next morning and watch a slide show of their adventures over doughnuts and juice. St. Albans Free Library, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Movies

‘James and the Giant Peach’: Ice cream sundaes sweeten a screening of this Roald Dahl classic. Bring a lawn chair. All ages. Fairfax Community Library, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Movies in the Park: See August 1.

Teen Books-to-Film Discussion: Fantasy lovers read J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, then watch it jump o the page in a film adaptation. Milton Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Music

Brown Bag Concert Series: Sayon Camara and Landaya Ensemble play joyous, traditional Guinean drumming and music. Rain site: Town Hall Theatre. Woodstock Village Green, noon. Donations accepted. Info, 457-3981.

craftsbury chamber Players’ mini concerts: See August 1.

maple Tree Place summer concert series: See August 1.

music With mr. chris: See August 1.

Preschool music: See August 1.

River Road summer concert series: See August 1.

snow Farm Vineyard summer concert series: See August 1.

Nature & science

champFest: See August 3.

color mixing: See August 2.

Exploring magnets: See August 1.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

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

Rocky Puppet show: Energetic theatrics teach families with young children about how stones change over time. Audience members can handle rock specimens after the show. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11-11:30 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

shakespeare in the Park: Vermont Shakespeare Company stages The Winter’s Tale — a story of tragedy, love, music and laughter — in the open air. Bring your own chair or blanket. Oakledge Park, Burlington, 6 p.m. $2225; free for children under 12 with a paying adult; $4 parking fee. Info, 877-874-1911.

‘X-Theater Presents’: Burlington Parks & Recreation’s Open Stage Performance Camp produces wondrously wacky plays created by and for kids. Ages 5 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

9 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Homeschoolers Knitting Group: See August 2.

Baby & maternity

Postnatal core Yoga: See August 2.

community

Glass-Blowing demos & Food Trucks: See August 2.

Education

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

Fairs & Festivals

Addison county Fair & Field days: See August 6, 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

Burger Night: See August 2.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Five corners Farmers market: See August 2.

Lunch at the Library: See August 1.

Richmond Farmers market: See August 2.

stowe Farmers market: See August 2.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See August 2.

dancing With my Baby: See August 2.

Family Gym: See August 2.

Kickball Game: Teammates gather for a few innings of this beloved playground game. Fairfax Community Park & Recreation Path, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

R.i.P.P.E.d. 4 Kids: See August 6.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2.

Library & Books

Kindergarten story Time: Kids gearing up for their first school year come for tales, tunes and crafts with

Mrs. Dulac. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Preschool Tea Party: Tiny ones dress as fancy as they like for tea and treats. Ages 2-6. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, noon. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

stuffed-Animal sleepover: See August 8, 10-11 a.m.

movies

After-school movie: See August 2.

‘Northern Borders’: A 10-year-old boy comes of age in the Northeast Kingdom in Jay Craven’s new film, based on the novel by Vermont author Howard Frank Mosher. Fairfax Community Library, 6-8 p.m. $6-12. Info, 849-2420.

music

Friday Night Family Fun series: See August 2.

Friday Night Live: See August 2.

Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See August 2.

Lunchtime concert: See August 2.

music With derek: See August 2.

Nature & science

champFest: See August 3.

Foodways Fridays: See August 2.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Hoopster Gliders: Creativity soars as kids craft a flying contraption. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200. straw Rockets: Imaginative inventors use air power to make space contraptions fly. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

‘Adventures of a comic Book Artist!’: Members of Broadway at the Barre Opera House summer camp step into the limelight in this 70-minute musical. See calendar spotlight on page 36. Ages 5 and up. Barre Opera House, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 476-0292.

circus show: Trapeze arts, juggling and acrobatics fly in the culmination of NECCA’s summer boot camp for adults. All ages. New England Center for Circus Arts, Brattleboro, 7:30 p.m. Donations accepted. Info, 254-9780.

shakespeare in the Park: See August 8.

10 SATURDAY Arts & crafts

Art Workshops With the Art House: Kids create marbled paper, mosaics, puppets, potato prints and more at the farmers market. Ages 3-15. Craftsbury Common, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $8. Info, 586-2545.

BcA summer Artist market: Kid Zone: See August 3.

Kids craft: Hand-Print Lion canvas: Palm prints become cool cats at this drop-in session. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

community

community day & Village-Wide Yard sale: Families gather for high-flying feats from Circus Smirkus, rock climbing, live music, concessions and fireworks. Various locations, Derby Line, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 873-3420. craftsbury old Home day: The fun kicks off with a pet show, dunking booth, bounce house, pie-eating contest and field games. The main highlight, a parade with floats, commences at 1 p.m. All ages. Craftsbury Common, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 586-2076.

Picnic Potluck & Field day: RU12? Community Center hosts this lunchtime shindig for LGBTQ and allied families. Beach-ball volleyball, scavenger hunts, face painting and swimming round out the day. All ages. Wrightsville Reservoir Beach, Middlesex, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $10-15 family donation suggested. Info, 860-7812.

Vermont Lake monsters Game: See August 6, 6:05 p.m.

Fairs & Festivals

Addison county Fair & Field days: See August 6. 8:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Jay summer Fest: Fun under the sun commences with a horseshoe tournament, town parade, square dance demo, ice cream social, kids activities and more. Proceeds support community nonprofits. All ages. Downtown Jay, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 343-5687.

mini danville Fair: While the big fair is canceled due to road construction, a smaller festival is still cause for celebration. There’s a children’s parade, carnival games, rib cook-off, fireworks and more. Hill Street Park, Danville, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Free.

street dance & Block Party: Spectators dance the night away to live tunes at this old-fashioned fair held in conjunction with the weekend’s Antique & Classic Car Meet. Main Street, Stowe, 7-10 p.m. Free.

Valley stage music Festival: Modern Grass Quintet, the DuPont Brothers Band, Stray Birds and Joy Kills Sorrow perform at this open-air family affair emphasizing sustainability. 246 Blackbird Swale, Huntington, 12:30-9:30 p.m. $10-30; $70 family ticket. Info, 863-5966.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1. Woodstock summer Fest: Elm Street turns into a pedestrian-only street fair, complete with live music, arts and crafts, kids activities and the Taste of Woodstock. Various locations, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free. Info, 457-3555.

Food

Burlington Farmers market: See August 3. caledonia Farmers market: See August 3. capital city Farmers market: See August 3. chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1. Farmers market story Walk: Families explore the Northwest Farmers Market page by page, starting at the Vermont Department of Health table. Taylor Park, St. Albans, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. middlebury Farmers market: See August 3. shelburne Farmers market: See August 3.

Health & Fitness

Healthy Kids clinic: Vermont Lake Monsters coaching staff and players lead kids through activity stations promoting fitness, nutrition and fun. Ages 7-15. Centennial Field, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. $5; preregister. Info, 655-4200.

movies

Ben & Jerry’s summer outdoor movie Festival: Cinema lovers screen Escape From Planet Earth in the open air. Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Waterbury, dusk. Free. Info, 244-1411.

Nature & science

Bird monitoring Walk: Tweet, tweet! Beginners learn birdsong basics and share their passion for everything ornithological. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 7-9 a.m. Donations accepted. Info, 434-3068. champFest: See August 3.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Kids Gardening club: Do you believe in fairies? Participants follow a story walk around the pond in search of these mythical pixies. Gardener’s Supply, Williston, 10-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 660-3505.

Leafcutter Ants: See August 4.

Planetarium Presentation: See August 3.

sound science: See August 4.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

saturday drama club: See August 3. shakespeare in the Park: See August 8.

11 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1, 10:05 a.m. shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See August 4.

NEW MOMS!

Are you leaking urine when trying to get back to exercise?

Does your scar feel weird or uncomfortable?

Where did your “abs” go?

If these questions sound familiar, you may benefit from our postpartum physical therapy program.

Treatment at Pelvic Health is designed to relieve pain and restore strength and function to help you return to your pre-pregnancy self!

Katie DeCarolis, PT 8 White Street, South Burlington 863-3323

Will intimacy ever feel the same again? Pre-Natal

HOMESTEAD

Thursdays, 9am-3pm

Ages 7-14

Sept 5-Dec 5 • Feb 13-May 29

2013-2014 School Year

FARM AFTERNOONS

Wednesdays, 3-5:30pm

Ages 6-9

Outdoors

Super Stars

it’s officially the summer of superheroes — superman, iron Man and Wolverine are among the larger-than-life crime fighters who have recently graced the big screen. the trend continues on a Barre stage this month, when the 7- to 13-year-old campers of Broadway at the Barre opera House present AdVENTurEs oF A comic BooK ArTisT superheros sing and villains dance in this musical spoof about comic-book characters come to life — and the young man who saves the day with a pen and an eraser.

11 suNdAY (Continued)

community

Vermont Lake monsters Game: See August 6, 5:05 p.m.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Power of Produce (PoP) club: See August 4.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See August 2.

music

concert on the Green: See August 4.

music on the Porch: See August 4.

Nature & science

Antique Tractor day: Visitors ogle retro farm machines from the 1930s to ’60s before taking a tractor-drawn wagon ride, making ice cream and playing in the sandbox. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular admission, $3-12; free for kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

champFest: See August 3.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Honeybees: See August 5.

Planetarium Presentation: See August 3.

Pocket Kites: See August 5.

sundays for Fledglings: See August 4.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

shakespeare in the Park: See August 8, 4 p.m.

12 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See August 5. Yoga After Baby: See August 5.

community

colossal coaster World camp: An annual free kids camp includes crafts, games, music, singing, Bible stories and more. Ages 3-11. Daybreak Community Church, Colchester, 9 a.m.-noon. Free; walk-ins are welcome, but preregistration is appreciated. Info, 338-9118.

Education

First-Time Kindergarteners: Over stories and activities, students-to-be meet other children (and their parents) headed to school in the fall. Everyone leaves with a free book. Ages 5-6. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Kindergarten Kickoff: Williston and St. George students entering kindergarten this year convene to hear stories, get a library card and meet new friends. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

AdVENTurEs oF A comic BooK ArTisT: Friday, August 9, 7 p.m., at Barre Opera House. Free. Ages 5 and up. Info, 476-0292. barreoperahouse.org

Lunch at the Library: See August 1.

Health & Fitness

Hoopla: See August 5.

Teen Yoga With Jaycie: Exercise and peace of mind come from sun salutations and downward-facing dogs. Ages 12-17. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Yoga class: See August 5.

Library & Books

summer monday Book sale: See August 5.

music

Preschool music: See August 1, 10:45 a.m.

Nature & science

Fossils: Evidence of the Past: See August 6.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Kitchen chemistry: See August 6.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

13 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: See August 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1, 4 p.m.

Postnatal Yoga: See August 4, 10:30 a.m.

community

colossal coaster World camp: See August 12, 9 a.m.-noon.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration:

See August 1.

see Dr. First videos

“First with Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Kids in the Kitchen: double corn Bread: Budding chefs get corny as they whip up a veggie-packed batter from scratch. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child; free for accompanying adult; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Lunch at the Library: See August 1.

Games

chess club: See August 6.

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

Health & Fitness

dancing With my Baby: See August 2.

martial Arts class: See August 1.

Parent/child Yoga With Jaycie: Kids and their caretakers settle in for simple stretching exercises. Ages 5-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2. Walk/Run Trail series: See August 6.

Library & Books

dig into Reading craft & Event series: See August 1.

‘Leo Geo’ Workshop: The Center for Cartoon Studies’ John Chad talks about turning his handmade children’s book, Leo Geo and His Miraculous Journey Through the Center of the Earth, into a published title. Ages 8-12. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

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

movies

Ben & Jerry’s summer outdoor movie Festival: See August 10, Ben & Jerry’s, Burlington, dusk. Free. Info, 862-9620.

music

children’s sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See August 6.

Gazebo concert: See August 6. music With Robert: See August 6.

Nature & science

Bug Walks: Intrepid explorers bring a net to observe fascinating insects. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. $3-5; free for members. Info, 229-6206.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1. microscopic investigations: See August 7. mirror, mirror: See August 1.

Nature Walk for Kids: See August 6.

story Time in Nestlings Nook: Preschoolers settle in for avian education. Activities include crafts, music and nature walks, if the weather permits. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Regular museum admission, $3-6. Info, 434-2167.

Time Travel Tuesdays: See August 6.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

circus smirkus Big Top Tour: High-flying feats abound as Smirkus Troupers ages 10 to 18 dazzle crowds under a 750-seat, European-style tent. All ages. Montpelier High School, 2 & 7 p.m. $17-20; free for kids under 2. Info, 533-7443.

Tom Joyce: See August 5. Prizes, summer reading certificates and cake follow. All ages. Fairfax Community

Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

14 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Booktivity: corn-Husk dolls: Kids learn about Native American culture and the crafts of our country’s early settlers. Ages 5-10. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

Family Tie dye: Folks bring their own T-shirts, pillow cases and more for a colorful craft project. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Kids craft: clay Bird: Participants sculpt a winged wonder in this drop-in session. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

Baby & maternity

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

community

children’s day: Young visitors play old-fashioned, Victorian-era games and sip fresh, homemade lemonade. All ages. Noyes House Museum, Morrisville, noon-4 p.m. Donations accepted. Info, 888-7617.

colossal coaster World camp: See August 12.

Education

social Thinking: See August 7.

Fairs & Festivals

orleans county Fair: Agricultural demonstrations — from horse shows to oxen pulls — figure prominently in this town tradition also featuring arts and crafts, carnival rides, live music and a demolition derby. Orleans County Fair Grounds, Barton, 8 a.m. $7-15; free for kids under 3. Info, 525-3555.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

caledonia Farmers market: See August 7.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

cookie decorating: See August 7.

middlebury Farmers market: See August 3.

Woodstock Farmers market: See August 7.

Games

chess Group: See August 7.

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

Lego Afternoons: See August 7.

Lego club: See August 7.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See August 2.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2.

Library & Books

You Rock! An Evening to celebrate: Summer readers are rewarded with music, watermelon and prizes. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

music

Brandon summer concert series: See August 2. community Evenings at the Farm: See August 7. craftsbury chamber Players’ mini concerts: See August 7.

Lunchtime concert: See August 2.

Preschool music With mr. chris: See August 7.

Rain Barrel Auction at Art Hop

Saturday, September 14 at the State House in Montpelier WALK or 5K RUN in Montpelier!

Saturday, September 14 on the Green in Middlebury

Saturday, September 14 on the Green in Norwich

Saturday, September 21 at Battery Park in Burlington

Saturday, September 21 at the Howe Center in Rutland

Sunday,

Kids ages 8-‐10 and parents are invited to participate Parents and Peers Project at the University of Vermont.

Families will come to the Family Development Lab for a 2.5-‐hour visit that includes games, discussions of kids’ recent experiences with peers’ and questionnaires.

Families receive $40 and kids receive a prize! For more info’ contact us at 802-‐656-‐4409 or famlab@uvm.edu.

Aug cA lendAr

Nature & science

color mixing: See August 2.

Exploring magnets: See August 1.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Nature at Night: coneheads & Katydids: Sharp-eared listeners walk through the wilderness, learning to identify “singing” insects. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 7:30-9 p.m. $3-5. Info, 229-6206.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Wagon Ride Wednesdays: See August 7.

Theater

circus smirkus Big Top Tour: See August 13.

15 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Art on Park: See August 1.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1.

community

colossal coaster World camp: See August 12, 9 a.m.-noon.

Families Together support Group: Parents of children with special needs convene with the Vermont Family Network for information about organizing records and important paperwork. Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Swanton, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 373-3365.

summervale: See August 1.

Fairs & Festivals

Lake champlain maritime Festival: Nonstop music, boat displays, local fare and hands-on exhibits sail into the waterfront at a four-day bash. See calendar spotlight on page 32. All ages. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 5-10 p.m. Free; admission charged for nightly concerts. Info, 482-3313.

orleans county Fair: See August 14.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

milton Farmers market: See August 1.

Games

shelburne magic club: See August 1.

Health & Fitness

martial Arts class: See August 1.

Library & Books

dig into Reading craft & Event series: See August 1. dorothy canfield Fisher Book discussion: Book buddies chat about Gordon Korman’s Ungifted. Grades 5-7. Fairfax Community Library, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

summer Reading Program Finale: Lit lovers celebrate their success with “dirt” cake, fun games, free books and prizes. St. Albans Free Library, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

movies

LcATV Producers Workshop: Aspiring directors learn to use video equipment and create a film of their own to take home. Ages 8-9. Milton Public Library, 1:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

music

Brown Bag concert series: Michele Choiniere performs traditional Franco-American and Québec folk songs, original compositions, jazz standards and covers. Rain site: Town Hall Theatre. Woodstock Village Green, noon. Donations accepted. Info, 457-3981.

craftsbury chamber Players’ mini concerts: See August 1.

maple Tree Place summer concert series: See August 1.

music With mr. chris: See August 1. Preschool music: See August 1.

River Road summer concert series: See August 1.

snow Farm Vineyard summer concert series: See August 1.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: Get lost!

Families navigate their way through a life-size puzzle in the shape of the historic fort. All ages. Fort Ticonderoga, N.Y., Regular admission, $8-17.50; free for kids under 5. Info, 518-585-2821.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Hoopster Gliders: See August 9.

straw Rockets: See August 9.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

circus smircus Big Top Tour: See August 13.

see dr. First videos

“First with Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1. Leafcutter Ants: See August 4. sound science: See August 4.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

‘caps for sale’: PuppeTree presents a globe-trotting presentation of a common folktale. Ages 3-10. Colchester Village Meeting House, 2:15-3:15 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313. shakespeare in the Park: See August 8.

17 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

Ongoing Exhibits

BiLLiNGs FARm & mUsEUm, WoodsTocK Info, 457-2355

Annual Quilt Exhibition: Windsor County quilters display their masterful textiles at an eye-catching exhibition. Quilting activities and demonstrations appeal to all ages and skill levels. Through September 22.

BiRds oF VERmoNT mUsEUm, HUNTiNGToN Info, 434-2167

shakespeare in the Park: See August 8, Knight Point State Park, North Hero, 6 p.m.

16 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Homeschoolers Knitting Group: See August 2.

Baby & maternity

Postnatal core Yoga: See August 2.

community

colossal coaster World camp: See August 12.

Glass-Blowing demos & Food Trucks: See August 2.

Fairs & Festivals

Lake champlain maritime Festival: See August 15, 10

a.m.-11 p.m.

orleans county Fair: See August 14.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

Burger Night: See August 2.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Five corners Farmers market: See August 2.

Richmond Farmers market: See August 2.

stowe Farmers market: See August 2.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See August 2.

dancing With my Baby: See August 2.

Family Gym: See August 2.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2.

Library & Books

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

movies

After-school movie: See August 2.

LcATV Producers Workshop: Aspiring directors learn to use video equipment for a short project. Ages 8-9. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 2-3:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

music

Friday Night Family Fun series: See August 2.

Friday Night Live: See August 2.

Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See August 2.

Lunchtime concert: See August 2.

music With derek: See August 2.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Foodways Fridays: See August 2.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

BcA summer Artist market: Kid Zone: See August 3. Kids craft: Bug Bucket: Itsy-bitsy entomologists decorate a canister for catching crawly insects. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

community

Rabble in Arms: Through waterfront demonstrations and exhibits, costumed reenactors bring history alive on the anniversary of the War of 1812. Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Vergennes, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular admission, $6-10; free for members and kids under 5. Info, 457-2022.

Fairs & Festivals

Lake champlain maritime Festival: See August 15, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. orleans county Fair: See August 14. Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

Burlington Farmers market: See August 3. caledonia Farmers market: See August 3. capital city Farmers market: See August 3. chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Kingdom Farm & Food days: A celebration of regional food and agriculture includes farm tours, food workshops and a local foods showcase. Various locations, Northeast Kingdom, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Most events are free or by donation; some small fees apply. Info, 472-5362. middlebury Farmers market: See August 3. shelburne Farmers market: See August 3.

Library & Books

meet Llama Llama: Bookworms gather for a reading of Anna Dewdney’s Llama Llama and the Bully Goat and await a visit from the protagonist himself. All ages. Phoenix Books Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 448-3350.

movies

Ben & Jerry’s summer outdoor movie Festival: Cinema lovers screen The Avengers in the open air. Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Waterbury, dusk. Free. Info, 244-1411. ‘monsters University’: Everyone’s favorite frights go to college in this summer flick from Pixar. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, 4 & 7 p.m. $5-8. Info, 603-646-2422.

music

music for strings & Piano: Members of the Lyra Summer Music Workshop perform works by Beethoven, Shostakovich, Brahms and beyond. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 8 p.m. Complimentary student tickets available. Info, 728-6464.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15. Full moon Hike & marshmallow Roast: Lunar light adds intrigue to a moderate 1.5-mile walk along wooded trails. Classic campfire treats await your return. Hard’ack, St. Albans, 8-9 p.m. $4-6. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1. moonlit campfire: A flickering bonfire sets the scene for s’mores, a visit from a live owl and other nature activities. Shelburne Farms, 7-9 p.m. $5-6; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

‘The Breeding Bird Atlas: science and Art’: More than 300 citizen scientists, artists and photographers contributed to this exhibit about avian life in Vermont. Through October 31.

doWNToWN BURLiNGToN

‘connecting the drops’: Families follow a Kids VT story walk from the top of Church Street to the waterfront, stopping at artist-decorated rain barrels to learn how to prevent stormwater runoff. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center hosts a related investigation table and “Let It Rain” stormwater program. Exhibit ends on August 30; bid on a barrel at a live auction on September 6, during the South End Art Hop.

EcHo LAKE AQUARiUm ANd sciENcE cENTER, BURLiNGToN

Info, 864-1848

‘Bigger Than T-Rex’: Petite paleontologists study prehistoric skeletons of Giganotosaurus, Mapusaurus and other humongous dinos. A hands-on dig pit, excavation videos and animatronic raptors make it even more exciting. All ages. Through September 2.

FAiRBANKs mUsEUm & PLANETARiUm, sT JoHNsBURY

Info, 748-2372

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

FLETcHER FREE LiBRARY, BURLiNGToN

Info, 863-3403

What on Earth? Activity stations: Kids uncover hidden treasures through library activities, games, puzzles and scavenger hunts. Ages 5 and up. Continues throughout the summer.

moNTsHiRE mUsEUm oF sciENcE, NoRWicH

Info, 649-2200

‘Playing With Time’: Turn back the clock — or speed it up — at this exhibit that allows visitors to time travel through the natural world. Through September 8.

PHoENiX BooKs, BURLiNGToN ANd EssEX

Info, 872-7111

Phoenix summer Reading Programs: Bookworms document their latest reads on “leaves,” which they attach to an in-store Tree of Knowledge. Bookstore Bingo is also available for kids entering grades 4 to 8. All ages. K

Planetarium Presentation: See August 3. super science day: microworlds: investigation of the Very small: Using hand lenses and compound microscopes, little ones investigate tiny things invisible to the naked eye. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Mini Golf Mania

17 sATuRdAY (Continued)

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

circus smirkus Big Top Tour: See August 13, Circus Smirkus, Greensboro, 7 p.m. $17-20. Info, 533-7443.

saturday drama club: See August 3. shakespeare in the Park: See August 8.

18 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1, 10:05 a.m. shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See August 4.

community

‘mission: Possible’: Adventure Race & scavenger

Hunt: Participants compete in light physical and mental challenges that highlight some of the nonprofits and projects association with the United Way of Chittenden County. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 9 a.m.-noon. Fundraising encouraged; preregister.

‘mission: Possible’: Nonprofit open House: COTS, the Boys & Girls Club, the YMCA, the Sara Holbrook Community Center and the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf open their doors for fun activities and prizes. Ages 5 and up. Downtown Burlington, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 864-7851.

Rabble in Arms: See August 17.

Fairs & Festivals

Lake champlain maritime Festival: See August 15, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

orleans county Fair: See August 14.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Kingdom Farm & Food days: See August 17.

Power of Produce (PoP) club: See August 4.

Health & Fitness

Family Gym: See August 2.

music

concert on the Green: See August 4. music on the Porch: See August 4.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Fossils: Evidence of the Past: See August 6.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Kitchen chemistry: See August 6.

Planetarium Presentation: See August 3.

sundays for Fledglings: See August 4.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

circus smirkus Big Top Tour: See August 17, 1 & 6 p.m. shakespeare in the Park: See August 8, 4 p.m.

19 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See August 5.

Yoga After Baby: See August 5.

Education

First-Time Kindergarteners: See August 12.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Seeing Spots

seven-year-old FREcKLEFAcE sTRAwBERRY will do whatever it takes to hide her freckles — even if it means wearing a ski mask to school for the rest of her life. in actress Julianne Moore’s bestselling children’s book, the 7-year-old protagonist doesn’t understand that her differences are what make her special. A quirky cast of characters imparts wisdom in a musical adaptation by saint Michael’s Playhouse. Watch the actors — including 12-year-old star stella Pappas— sing and dance in this modern-day “ugly duckling” tale.

FREcKLEFAcE sTRAwBERRY: Friday, August 2, noon; Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m.; and Sunday, August 4, 10 a.m. and noon, at McCarthy Arts Center, St. Michael’s College in Colchester. $10. Info, 864-2281. academics.smcvt.edu/playhouse/kids.htm

Health & Fitness

Hoopla: See August 5.

Yoga class: See August 5.

music

Preschool music: See August 1, 10:45 a.m.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1. microscopic investigations: See August 7. mirror, mirror: See August 1.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

‘dinoman!’: Fossils, bugs in amber and real dinosaur bones figure prominently in a theatrical presentation about the giant creatures that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. Ages 5-12. Colchester Village Meeting House, 11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-0313.

20 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: See August 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1, 4 p.m. Natural Beginnings: Mothers gather at this breast-feeding support group. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4095.

Postnatal Yoga: See August 4. 10:30 a.m.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1, Sep. 2, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Games

chess club: See August 6.

Health & Fitness

martial Arts class: See August 1.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2.

Walk/Run Trail series: See August 6.

movies

Ben & Jerry’s summer outdoor movie Festival: See August 17, Ben & Jerry’s, Burlington, dusk. Free. Info, 862-9620.

music

children’s sing-Along With Lesley

Grant: See August 6.

music With Robert: See August 6.

summer Entertainment series: The Milton Community Band serenades families soaking up the sunset. Bombardier Park, Milton, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4922.

Nature & science

color mixing: See August 2.

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Exploring magnets: See August 1.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Games

chess Group: See August 7.

Lego Afternoons: See August 7.

Lego club: See August 7.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1. milton Farmers market: See August 1.

see

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See August 2.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2.

Library & Books

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, 878-0313.

music

maze By moonlight: Flashlights and a celestial glow illuminate a twisty trek through the six-acre labyrinth. All ages. Fort Ticonderoga, N.Y., 8-11 p.m. $10. Info, 518-585-2821.

Nature Walk for Kids: See August 6.

Time Travel Tuesdays: See August 6.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

21 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Kids craft: mini Birdhouse on a stick: Avian enthusiasts make a teensy habitat for their feathered friends. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

community

Prince & Princess Tea: Young royals dress in their best for a party in the park. Bring your own lunch. Bristol Town Green, 12-1 p.m. Free. Info, 453-5885.

Vermont Lake monsters Game: See August 6.

Education

social Thinking: See August 7.

Fairs & Festivals

caledonia county Fair: Good, old-fashioned festivities range from an aerial show to alpaca demonstrations to amusement park rides. August 21 is Children’s Day.

Caledonia County Fairgrounds, Lyndonville, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. $10-18; free for kids under 3. Info, 626-5917.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

caledonia Farmers market: See August 7.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

cookie decorating: See August 7.

middlebury Farmers market: See August 3.

Woodstock Farmers market: See August 7.

community Evenings at the Farm: See August 7. craftsbury chamber Players’ mini concerts: See August 7.

Lunchtime concert: See August 2. Preschool music With mr. chris: See August 7.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Hoopster Gliders: See August 9.

monarch Butterfly Tagging: Kids gently catch, tag and release these black-and-orange migrants. Bring a net if you have one. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. $3-5. Info, 229-6206.

straw Rockets: See August 9.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Wagon Ride Wednesdays: See August 7.

Wiggly Worms: Little ones imagine what life is like for squirmy invertebrates. For ages 3-5 with an adult companion. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10-11 a.m. $8-10 per adult/child pair; $4 per additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

22 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Art on Park: See August 1.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1. community

summervale: See August 1.

Fairs & Festivals

caledonia county Fair: See August 21.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Games

Library Legos: See August 8.

Health & Fitness

martial Arts class: See August 1.

Library & Books

cleo the Therapy dog: See August 8.

movies

movies in the Park: See August 1.

music

Brown Bag concert series: Fast Track deliver highenergy barbershop-quartet numbers. Rain site: Town Hall Theatre. Woodstock Village Green, noon. Donations accepted. Info, 457-3981.

craftsbury chamber Players’ mini concerts: See August 15.

maple Tree Place summer concert series: See August 1.

music With mr. chris: See August 1.

musical stories: Lake Champlain Chamber Music Festival instrumentalists help youngsters compose their own musical stories. For kids ages 5-11 and their grown-up companions. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Preschool music: See August 1.

snow Farm Vineyard summer concert series: See August 1.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Leafcutter Ants: See August 4.

sound science: See August 4.

stop-motion Family Workshop: Budding filmmakers use the museum’s iPads and their own creative juices to make short animated videos. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Regular admission, $10-12; free for members and kids under 2; tickets required. Info, 649-2200.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

23 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Homeschoolers Knitting Group: See August 2.

23 FRidAY, p.42

Dr. First videos

“First with Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Aug CA lendAr

23 friday (Continued)

Baby & maternity

Postnatal core yoga: See August 2.

community

Glass-Blowing demos & food Trucks: See August 2.

fairs & festivals

caledonia county fair: See August 21.

Vergennes day: The Little City is big fun! Friday night kicks off with a street dance and live music. Saturday features a pancake breakfast, 5K and 10K races, a craft show, bandstand music and more. Downtown Vergennes, 7-10 p.m. Various prices. Info, 388-7951.

Vermont festival of the arts: See August 1.

food

Burger Night: See August 2.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

five corners farmers market: See August 2.

richmond farmers market: See August 2.

stowe farmers market: See August 2.

Health & fitness

afternoon Hoops: See August 2.

family Gym: See August 2.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2.

movies

after-school movie: See August 2.

music

friday Night Live: See August 2.

island Time steel Band: This tropical quartet whisks kids away to the Caribbean in a special concert filled with easy-going calypsos and fiery Trinidadian socas. Ages 6 and up. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 11 a.m. $6. Info, 728-6464.

Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See August 2.

Lunchtime concert: See August 2. music With derek: See August 2.

Nature & science

a corn maze adventure: See August 15.

foodways fridays: See August 2.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Honeybees: See August 5.

Pocket Kites: See August 5.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

24 SATURDAY arts & crafts

art Workshops With the art House: See August 10.

Kids craft: Papier-mâché dolphin: Using glitter glue, paint and gemstones, participants fashion shimmering marine mammals. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

community

see dr. First videos “first with Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Vermont Lake monsters Game: See August 6, 6:05 p.m.

fairs & festivals

caledonia county fair: See August 21.

champlain Valley fair: Cotton-candy fun and carny curiosities collide at the state’s largest fair, complete with midway rides, daily parades and live entertainment. See calendar spotlight on page 25. All ages. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, 10 a.m. $5-12; free for kids under 5; additional tickets required for grandstand concerts. Info, 878-5545.

Quechee scottish festival & celtic fair: Bagpipe bands, sheepdog trials and, of course, plaid skirts figure prominently in this annual celebration of Scottish heritage. Quechee Polo Field, 8 a.m. $10-15; free for kids under 5. Info, 295-5351.

Vergennes day: See August 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Vermont festival of the arts: See August 1.

food

Burlington farmers market: See August 3. caledonia farmers market: See August 3. capital city farmers market: See August 3. chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1. middlebury farmers market: See August 3. shelburne farmers market: See August 3.

Health & fitness

World soccer festival: This family-friendly, multicultural celebration of soccer features Brazilian music and dance, a tournament for kids and adults, the Puppet and Player parade, mural making and more. Lamoille Union High School, Hyde Park, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; $44 preregistration for the tournament. Info, 635-3558.

music

rockin’ ron the friendly Pirate: See August 1. All ages. Ainsworth Public Library, Williamstown, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 433-5887.

string duos & a Quartet: Members of the Lyra Summer Music Workshop perform works by Bartók, Berio, Piston and Bruch. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 8 p.m. Complimentary student tickets available. Info, 728-6464.

Nature & science

Bird monitoring Walk: Early risers bring their own binoculars and hope to catch sight of feathered wings above. Best for older children and adults. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 7:30-9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 434-2167.

a corn maze adventure: See August 15.

dinofest!: Families explore the “Bigger Than T-Rex” exhibit, build dinosaur puppets and watch an exclusive film about Lake Champlain’s own Champ. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

fossils: Evidence of the Past: See August 6.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Kitchen chemistry: See August 6.

Planetarium Presentation: See August 3.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

saturday drama club: See August 3.

25 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal yoga: See August 1, 10:05 a.m.

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

shelburne Prenatal yoga: See August 4.

community

Vermont Lake monsters Game: See August 6, 5:05 p.m.

fairs & festivals

caledonia county fair: See August 21.

champlain Valley fair: See August 24.

Vermont festival of the arts: See August 1.

food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Power of Produce (PoP) club: See August 4.

Health & fitness

family Gym: See August 2.

mVP Health care run for fun: Among peers of their own age, kids pound a 1K or 3K path of unpaved uphill and downhill terrain, conquering some fun obstacles along the way. See calendar spotlight on page 27. Ages 4-14. Midway Lodge. Stowe Mountain Resort, noon-2 p.m. $10-15 includes a medal, one raffle ticket and a commemorative race bib. Info, 864-5794.

Zoe’s race: Community members take a 1K fun run/ walk or 5K run to raise money for children and families who receive support from HowardCenter and need to make their homes accessible. Entertainment from Waldo & Woodhead and the Hokum Bros. follows. All ages. Oakledge Park, Burlington, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $2040. Info, 488-6911.

music

concert on the Green: See August 4. music on the Porch: See August 4.

Nature & science

a corn maze adventure: See August 15.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1. microscopic investigations: See August 7. mirror, mirror: See August 1.

Planetarium Presentation: See August 3. sundays for fledglings: See August 4.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

26 MONDAY

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal yoga: See August 5.

yoga after Baby: See August 5.

Education

first-Time Kindergarteners: See August 12.

fairs & festivals

champlain Valley fair: See August 24.

Vermont festival of the arts: See August 1.

food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Health & fitness

yoga class: See August 5.

Library & Books

intergenerational dessert Book discussion: Lit lovers gather for a good read-and-rant session about Maggie Stiefvater’s The Scorpio Races, complete with something sweet. Ages 12-adult. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

music

Preschool music: See August 1, 10:45 a.m.

Nature & science

color mixing: See August 2.

a corn maze adventure: See August 15. Exploring magnets: See August 1.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1. Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

27 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: See August 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1, 4 p.m.

Postnatal Yoga: See August 4, 10:30 a.m.

Fairs & Festivals

champlain Valley Fair: See August 24.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Games

chess club: See August 6.

Health & Fitness

martial Arts class: See August 1.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2.

Walk/Run Trail series: See August 6.

music

children’s sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See August 6.

Nature & science

Bug Walks: See August 13.

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Hoopster Gliders: See August 9.

Nature Walk for Kids: See August 6.

straw Rockets: See August 9.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

28 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Kids craft: Glimmer Art Tattoo: Little ones queue up for sparkly self-expression at this drop-in session. Tattoos will be applied by a Creative Habitat employee. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

Baby & maternity

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

Education

social Thinking: See August 7.

Fairs & Festivals

champlain Valley Fair: See August 24.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

caledonia Farmers market: See August 7.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

cookie decorating: See August 7.

middlebury Farmers market: See August 3.

Woodstock Farmers market: See August 7.

Games

chess Group: See August 7.

Lego Afternoons: See August 7.

Lego club: See August 7.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See August 2.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2.

music

community Evenings at the Farm: See August 7.

Lunchtime concert: See August 2.

Preschool music With mr. chris: See August 7.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Leafcutter Ants: See August 4.

sound science: See August 4.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Wagon Ride Wednesdays: See August 7.

29 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Art on Park: See August 1.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See August 1.

community

summervale: See August 1.

Fairs & Festivals

champlain Valley Fair: See August 24.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

milton Farmers market: See August 1.

Health & Fitness

martial Arts class: See August 1.

music

music With mr. chris: See August 1.

North Branch Bluegrass Festival: This outdoor music bash by the Ottaquechee River features New England bands, music workshops, nightly jam sessions and camping. Bridgewater Center Rd., 3 p.m. $5-20 per day; $20-50 weekend pass; free for kids under 5. Info, 672-3042.

Preschool music: See August 1.

snow Farm Vineyard summer concert series: See August 1.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Honeybees: See August 5.

Pocket Kites: See August 5.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

30 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Homeschoolers Knitting Group: See August 2.

Baby & maternity

Postnatal core Yoga: See August 2. community

Glass-Blowing demos & Food Trucks: See August 2.

Fairs & Festivals

champlain Valley Fair: See August 24.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

Burger Night: See August 2.

chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1.

Five corners Farmers market: See August 2.

Richmond Farmers market: See August 2.

stowe Farmers market: See August 2.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See August 2.

Family Gym: See August 2.

Tiny Tumblers open Gym: See August 2.

movies

After-school movie: See August 2.

music

Friday Night Live: See August 2.

Kids music With Linda ‘Tickle Belly’ Bassick: See August 2.

Lunchtime concert: See August 2.

music With derek: See August 2.

North Branch Bluegrass Festival: See August 29.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15.

Foodways Fridays: See August 2.

Fossils: Evidence of the Past: See August 6.

Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1.

Hands-on Horticulture: See August 1.

Kitchen chemistry: See August 6.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

31 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

Kids craft: Klutz Kids Quilling: Nimble fingers roll a cute little snail from paper, and attach it to a notepad. Ages 8 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

community

Vermont Lake monsters Game: See August 6, 6:05 p.m.

Fairs & Festivals

champlain Valley Fair: See August 24, 10 a.m. southern Vermont Garlic & Herb Festival: Vampires are sure to shun this annual extravaganza featuring crafts, food, children’s games, live music and entertainment. Camelot Village, Bennington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $1-5. Info, 447-3311.

Vermont Festival of the Arts: See August 1.

Food

Burlington Farmers market: See August 3. caledonia Farmers market: See August 3. capital city Farmers market: See August 3. chocolate-dipping demonstration: See August 1. middlebury Farmers market: See August 3. shelburne Farmers market: See August 3.

Health & Fitness

Jay Peak Trail Running Family Festival: Quick-footed participants big and small hoof it along 5K, 25K and 50K routes — and a kids fun run. Ages 4 and up. Jay Peak Resort, 8:30 a.m. $15-80 per race; additional tickets required for a post-race barbecue.

music

North Branch Bluegrass Festival: See August 29, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Nature & science

A corn maze Adventure: See August 15. Great Vermont corn maze: See August 1. microscopic investigations: See August 7. mirror, mirror: See August 1.

Planetarium Presentation: See August 3.

ViNs summer Programs: See August 1.

Theater

saturday drama club: See August 3.

K6H-jamie2coats0412.indd

Teddy Bear Picnic

✱ CONTEST

BOOK-REVIEW WINNERS

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

NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL 2013

Mater Christi School is a private Catholic school that prepares pre-school through grade 8 students of all faiths to succeed.

Small class sizes, a focus on early reading, and a state-of-the-art science laboratory are just a few of the differences that help our students reach their full potential.

WWW.MCSCHOOL.ORG k6h-MaterChristi0813.indd 1 7/25/13 1:28 PM

Kayla Tashiro, 8 BURLINGTON recommends: Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan

“One of the things I liked about this book was the potential new mother who was visiting from Maine. She lived near the sea and would imagine the long grass as the rolling waves.”

Turner Barboun, 12 HINESBURG recommends: The Mortal Instruments: City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

“It got me so hooked I couldn’t stop reading, just cli -hanger after cli -hanger.”

Dylan Reich, 8 MONTPELIER recommends: The Adventures of Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey

“I like it because it is funny when George ‘bonks’ an evil robot on the head while saving Harold.”

Lily Porth, 11

JERICHO recommends: Every Soul a Star by Wendy Mass

Find

11am-3pm VTB13_KidsVT_4.75x3.67.indd 1 6/25/13 10:45 AM k6h-VTTeddyBear0713.indd 1

Playground Paradise

SChool’S out, but kids are still coming to Waterbury’s Thatcher Brook Primary School — for the playground. This sprawling hillside funscape is home to tetherball and teetertotters, swing sets and slides. But what really sets it apart are the natural play structures, including a rock-garden labyrinth, a massive sandbox and a rockclimbing wall.

If you go: thatcher brook primary school is located on high street in waterbury. For more information, call 244-7195 or visit tbps.org.

“The goal was to connect kids to nature through imaginative play,” says

By Carolyn Fox

co-principal Stephanie Hudak of the unusual design. Conceptualized in 2005 and finally realized in 2008 after much community fundraising and support, the playground minimizes plastic and metal structures by making use of logs, rocks and the natural lay of the land.

Best of all, the playground is open to the community during all non-recess hours. Hudak says she has seen children climbing, sliding and swinging on the grounds all summer long. K

• a tall log treehouse is handicap accessible. Kids follow a winding gravel path up the hill to enter from the back via a smooth wooden ramp.

• Kids can watch stormwater runoff flow through a series of halved, hollowed-out log “pipes” and into a small pool.

• the rock-climbing wall, set against the hill at a gentle angle, lets kids safely ascend.

• built into the curve of the hill, an amphitheater with stone seats and a brick stage is big enough to hold classes and performances.

• a designated preschool area features a smaller jungle gym and swing set, as well as a big sandbox for digging.

Kids climb the treehouse ramp at Thatcher Brook Primary School

Stormwater flows through natural pipes to a pool

Conquering the rock wall

EARN YOUR TEACHING LICENSE IN 4 OR 5 SEMESTERS!

4 semesters: Middle, Secondary, Art

5 semesters: Elementary, Special Education, ESL

APPLY 18 CREDITS TO YOUR MASTER’S IN EDUCATION

802.654.2649 smcvt.edu/graduate education@smcvt.edu

✱ CONTEST Book Review

Sponsored by

Calling all bookworms!

Send us a thoughtful paragraph about a recent read for the chance to win some literary loot.

Book:

Author:

Describe your favorite part of the story. What did you like about it?

Feel free to use additional pages!

Register now

Ja zz - Tap - Ba lle t Lyric al - H ip Hop - m ode rn Dan ce & gymn astics Musica l theater Ballroom P iano - Guitar - Voice

to regi st er, c all 871-5846 or Vi si t us on line at www.MovementCenterVT.com

We’ll pick the four most creative entries and excerpt them in the next issue. Winners receive a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop. Deadline to enter is August 16. Send your entries to: Kids VT, attn: Book Review, P.O. Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

New Books, Used Books, Remainders at GREAT PRICES!

Name Age Town Email

Phone

14 Church Street Burlington crowbooks.com 862-0848

Fruit Popsicles

Q projecT materials

raise your hand if you loVe popsicles. Yep, that’s what we thought. Easy to make and fun to eat, these frozen treats are a summer staple. This recipe makes colorful, layered pops that are perfect for keeping cool when the weather gets hot. Tip: Whip these up right before bedtime, and they’ll be frozen by morning.

Carolyn Fox

insTrucTions

• blender

• half of a seedless watermelon, cubed

• fine-mesh strainer (optional)

• 1 small bowl

• 1 mango, cubed

• 1 kiwi, peeled and cut into roughly 1/4-inch slices

• Popsicle molds and sticks (this recipe makes about 8 Popsicles)

1. load the blender with the cubed watermelon and purée until the fruit is smooth.

2. If you notice any errant seeds or chunks in the purée, you can run it through a fine-mesh strainer as you transfer the watermelon juice to your bowl.

3. rinse out the blender, then purée the mango until smooth.

4. Fill the Popsicle molds about a quarter of the way with the mango purée. slide a slice of kiwi into each mold, then fill the rest of the way with the watermelon juice. Insert the Popsicle sticks.

5. transfer the Popsicle molds to the freezer for six to eight hours.

6. to serve, run the Popsicle molds under warm water for a few seconds. then pull each Popsicle out to eat. K

PUZZLE PAGE

KIDSVT.COM

Puzzles4Kids

Riddle Search — Morning Meal

Look up, down and diagonally, both forward and backward, to find every word on the list. Circle each one as you find it. When all the words are circled, take the UNUSED letters and write them on the blanks below. Go from left to right and top to bottom to find the answer to this riddle: What do comedians like to eat for breakfast?

GRAND-PRIZE WINNER

ADELAIDE lives in Ferrisburgh and turns 5 in August. She lives life like it’s a musical — she’s constantly making up songs and dancing around.

Adelaide wins a gift certificate for two dozen mini cupcakes.

AUGUST 2013

ZOEY lives in Milton and turns 1 in August. She loves swimming, sleeping and riding in her play car!

BY HELENA HOVANEC

COOPER lives in South Burlington and turns 2 in August. He’s an avid bug collector and bird watcher.

Sponsored KVT BDAY CLUB

Winners 10% OFF PURCHASE OF 6 CUPCAKES OR MORE VALID BOTH LOCATIONS. EXP. 7/2014. LIMIT 1 PER CUSTOMER PER DAY. made from scratch with ❤ using mostly local ingredients

MASON lives in Burlington and turns 5 in August. He enjoys fire trucks, police cars and playing hockey.

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.

IN BURLINGTON 48 KIDS VT

COLORING CONTEST!

Starting this month, three winners will receive $25 gift cards to Creative Habitat, and free framing of their artwork for its Kids Gallery, located at the store on 555 Shelburne Road in Burlington. After a monthlong display of the winning artwork, Creative Habitat will give each artist the framed print to display at home. Send Kids VT your work of art by August 15. Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8 and (3) ages 9-12. Winners will be named in the September issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to KidsVT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

BY NANCY STEARNS BERCAW

THE NIRWANA RESORT HOTEL in Bintan, Indonesia, is only a one-hour ferry ride from Singapore, where my family lived a few years ago. An online advertisement drew us to the “cheery family hotel,” which boasts an impressive infinity pool that seems to stretch right into the South China Sea.

But within five minutes of our arrival on a March day in 2010, that glorious sight turned into a horrific scene.

Just as my 5-year-old son, David, and I were putting our beach towels on a lounge chair, a blur in my peripheral vision caused me to turn around. Someone had run past me. Why?

An Asian boy, approximately 6 or 7 years old, was lying on the deck in his blue swimsuit. His goggles were around his neck. He was unconscious. People were gathering around him. I took one of them to be his distraught mother; she was screaming for an ambulance.

There were no lifeguards at Nirwana Resort Hotel, according to a multitude of signs. Instead, it was a pool attendant who began CPR with the short, slight chest compressions appropriate for a child. The boy’s mother dropped to her knees and begged, pleaded, prayed.

I pointed to my mouth, attempting to signal the attendant to add mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to the chest compressions. But I wasn’t in his field of vision, and he was focused solely on getting water out of the boy’s lungs. Besides, I couldn’t recall the exact sequence of the resuscitation procedure.

As I watched him work, I wondered if there was a place between drowning and drowned. If so, the little boy was in it.

The pool attendant soon began mouth-to-mouth. Within two or three breaths, the boy vomited. Clear the airway now, I tried to will into the attendant’s head, although I wasn’t entirely certain that it was accurate advice. I’d taken dozens of CPR courses in my lifetime. I’d been a lifeguard. I’d been a swim coach. I’d taught hundreds of kids to swim. I was a national championship swimmer. I have ruled the water for most of my life. Yet, in that moment of crisis, the water was winning and my mind was spinning.

A German woman began screaming “Turn him on his side!” as she made her way to the scene. But the attendant was one step ahead of us both. While I was pondering and she was shrieking, he’d quickly rolled the boy over, cleared his mouth, returned him to his back and resumed CPR — all in a span of seconds.

“Keep him on his side!” the woman shouted. I wanted to yell “No!” The boy needed continued resuscitation, which couldn’t be performed if he was on his side. But I couldn’t speak. The attendant continued his work of compressions and mouth-to-mouth without flinching or second-guessing himself. The boy’s mother was imploring her son to be strong. She said it over and over and over again. Be strong. Be strong. I started chanting the phrase in my mind, too.

shouted.

His eyes opened, and he vomited again. The attendant put his finger in the boy’s mouth and cleared it. I couldn’t remember if vomiting was a good sign — or just a reflex.

was on his side. But I couldn’t speak. The attenor second-guessing himself. and over and over again. Be strong. Be in too. His eyes opened, and he vomited again. The just

Four hotel employees arrived with a backboard, quickly lifted the boy onto it and ran with him back to the hotel. Why had they stopped CPR to transport him? There were only two possible answers, I reasoned: He was either breathing fine or was never going to breathe again.

I turned toward my son, who was still sitting on the lounge chair. Had he seen everything? How long had it been? Thirty seconds or five minutes?

I pulled David into my arms and said, “Pray, pray, pray.”

David whispered, “I’m glad I know how to swim.”

I noticed that most of the other vacationers had gone back to their books and sunbathing. How could anyone return to normal? Didn’t they all want to know if the boy had lived?

David and I picked up our beach towels and walked inside the hotel. I booked us on the next ferry back to Singapore. I lingered for a few extra seconds at the concierge desk and considered inquiring about the boy, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. Not knowing meant I could at least hold on to the idea that he had survived.

Since that day in Bintan, I no longer consider beaches and pools to be relaxing. Instead, I’m constantly on edge, watching. I put my chair in places where lifeguards or parents might have an obstructed view. I scan for signs of exhaustion in swimmers, especially in my own son, and keep one foot in the water, ready to respond in a matter of seconds.

Because of that beautiful boy, I may never let my own guard down again.

begged, pleaded, prayed.

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