Kids VT, October 2012

✱ ROBOTICS: THE NEW VARSITY SPORT

✱ 7 GOOD VIDEO GAMES FOR GIRLS

✱ KITCHEN SCIENCE: CABBAGE-JUICE CHEMISTRY

The Y is the one place in the area where you can spend the whole entire day. There are tons of things to do to keep everyone in the family happy.

We love, love, love the Y!

Saturday, October 20th 10AM–4PM Lady Bug Girl STORY TIMES on the hour

Enjoy Lady Bug Girl Activities

FREE Buttered Noodles for all!

10% of book sales will benefit Children’s Literacy Foundation

64 Harvest Ln, Williston, VT 802.764.1810

A children’s department store Books • Toys • Clothes Shoes • Baby/Nursery

Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-7, Sat 9:30-6, Sun 11-5 www.butterednoodles.com

What will you find at the Y? Join us! Take a tour, call us at 862-9622, or visit us online. gbymca.org

Lizzy

EAT. LEARN. PLAY

Teen Transformers

Vermont kids build ’bots — and character — in robotics competitions

The Games Girls Play

18

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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 Kate Laddison kate@kidsvt.com ext. 73

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

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

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

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

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

Copy Editor Paula Routly

Proofreaders Janice Obuchowski Marisa Keller

Production Manager John James

Lead Designer Brooke Bousquet

Designers Celia Hazard

Rev. Diane Sullivan

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Digital Media Manager Tyler Machado

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Contributing Writers: Kathryn Flagg, Bill McKibben, Cindy Morgan, Ken Picard, Ana Ruesink, Becky Tharp, Lindsay J. Westley

Photographers: Andy Duback, Caleb Kenna, Tom McNeill, Matthew Thorsen, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur

Illustrators: Fish McGill, Rev. Diane Sullivan

Cover image: Matthew Thorsen

Travis Miller, a member of the Essex robotics team, solders a piece of a robot for competition.

Come join me for a marvelous musical adventure! It will be spooktacular... hahahaha!

Presents

Halloween Family Concert: “A Symphony of Whales”

This kid-friendly concert includes an introduction of the instruments and several seasonally spooky selections. The highlight of the performance is a narration with music based on the book, “A Symphony of Whales,” by Steve Schuch. It takes its inspiration from a true story about whales stranded in the Siberian Sea, and the heroic e orts by villagers and a Russian icebreaker to free them. Music plays a key role in the heartwarming rescue — and audience members get to participate in a crucial decision!

Costume Parade!

VSO String Quartet members are Sofia Hirsch and David Gusakov, violins; Hilary Hatch, viola; and Dieuwke Davydov, cello. Our special guest narrator is Melissa Ewell, a music teacher from Swanton. Enjoy this high-energy presentation, which includes a parade of costumes, and treats to take home afterwards!

Sponsored by:

Locations & Times

Saturday & Sunday, October 20 & 21

• McCarthy Arts Center at St. Michael’s College, Colchester, Saturday, October 20, 11 a.m.

• Bellows Free Academy Performing Arts Center, St. Albans, October 20, 4 p.m. Funded by St. Albans Society for the Performing Arts.

• Middlebury College’s Mahaney Center for the Arts, Sunday, October 21, 2 p.m.

Ticket Prices

$7 for adults • $5 for seniors & children $15 for families (up to 5 people)

For more information & ticket outlets visit vso.org

A VSO String Quartet Family Halloween Concert

There is a $1 MIddlebury College service charge per ticket or family ticket.

Tech Jamming

When i Was a Kid, October meant one thing: Halloween. I loved picking out my costume and savored every piece of candy I collected.

These days, another event defines October for me: the annual Vermont Tech Jam, which is Friday and Saturday, October 26 and 27. I’ve helped plan this job fair and tech expo for the past five years.

I like working on it because it gives me a chance to meet a lot of seriously smart, innovative people who work for Vermont’s fastestgrowing companies — firms such as Dealer. com, MyWebGrocer, BioTek Instruments, MicroStrain and Green Mountain Coffee Roasters. More than 60 of them exhibit each year.

The Tech Jam is a particularly valuable opportunity for young people. Each year, we invite middle and high school teachers to bring their students; more than 500 teenagers from all across the state attended in 2011.

I’ve watched countless students approach exhibitors’ displays, their eyes wide. They say things like, “I had no idea there was something like this in Vermont.” I love that they’re learning to see their world in a new way.

The Tech Jam offers Kids VT an opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering and math education, aka STEM, and the impact technology has on kids’ lives. This month, in “Teen Transformers,” (page 18) Megan James follows up with the Essex High School robotics club we wrote about in last year’s Tech Issue; in April, they qualified for the biggest youth robotics competition in the world. They’ll be competing closer

to home this spring, at the University of Vermont’s first-ever robotics tournament.

“The Games Girls Play” (page 22) explores competition of a different kind: video games. We asked women in the Champlain College gamedesign and animation programs to recommend games that feature strong female characters.

Parents of younger kids should check out the “Project” (page 46), a preschool-level science experiment from the Montshire Museum called “cabbage-juice chemistry,” and Kids Beat (page 8), in which Kate Laddison notes that Childcare Resource is now offering “STEM-inars” on building math and science skills in infants.

There are plenty of nontechie stories, too. Lindsay J. Westley visited a class that teaches art appreciation (“Art Of,” page 17), and asked local dads how they talk with their kids about politics, a subject that’s unavoidable in this election year (“Go Ask Dad,” page 16). Kids VT writers also gave rave reviews to the Green Mountain Freestyle Center (“Fit Families,” page 11) and the Farmhouse Tap & Grill (“Out to Eat,” page 15).

Lastly, the Tech Jam isn’t the only event we’re organizing this month: On Saturday and Sunday, October 20 and 21, Kids VT and the Vermont Symphony Orchestra are teaming up to present a kid-friendly classical-music concert series, with performances in Colchester, St. Albans and Middlebury. We hope you’ll bring your young music lovers to see “A Symphony of Whales.” They can wear their Halloween costumes. There could be candy, too.

— cathy Resmer executive editor

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

Bill McKibben (“Because Project”) is a scholar-in-residence at Middlebury College, and founder of 350.org, a grassroots group that combats climate change. He has written a dozen books about the environment, and is a frequent contributor to the New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic, Outside and Rolling Stone

Amy VanderKooi (“Project”) is the science educator and program manager at the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich. She co-teaches the museum’s Young Scientist program, which fosters curiosity about the natural world in kids ages 4 to 6.

Kids Club

A Garden Program for Little Sprouts Pumpkins & Pirates

Sat. Oct. 20 · 10–11:00am

Gardener's Supply - Williston

Meet Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate. He is sure to put a smile on everyone's face. Search for pirates' buried treasure among the jack O lanterns in our nursery and if you choose, paint a pumpkin to take home. Pre-registration is required.

For additional Kids Club information or to register for an event please call 658-2433.

The American Association of

recently changed its

saying that the

outweigh

BOOK REVIEW

Congratulations to these enthusiastic young critics who shared their reading recommendations with us. Each wins a set of three books from Kids VT and 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.

If you didn’t win, send in another submission. This month’s form is on page 48. The next deadline is Monday, October 15.

4 and under

Ava Francis, 4, Ferrisburgh

Dora’s Starry Christmas, by Christine Ricci

“I liked when Glowy Star shined her light for Santa so he would see in the rainforest”

5 to 9

Helen Goodyear, 8, Huntington

The Battle of the Labyrinth, by Rick Riordan

“I loved this book because it was exhilarating and frightening. On the scary parts, my chest would burst with worry and excitement …”

10 and up

Emma Barker, 10, Burlington Glory Be, by Augusta Scattergood

“This book is great for people who have strong personalities … it shows how deep friendship can be and how strongly people will stand up for a friend of any age, color or culture.”

Isabelle Collum, 11, Fairfax

The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell, by Chris Colfer

“Even people who aren’t the nicest can be nice. They are people too, inside, not monsters.”

COLORING CONTEST

It’s clear that kids headed back to school last month: Colorists filled in our owls with math, reading and spelling lessons galore. Very wise.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

COOL DOODLES

“The Owl Who Decided to Draw at School”

Max Reif, 4, Burlington

SENSATIONAL SPARKLES

Untitled

Abigail Leighty, 6, East Montpelier

BEST BULLETIN BOARD

“Back to School!”

Sophie Lee, 9, Underhill

LIFE-LIKE FEATHERS Untitled

Sylvie Toothaker, 8, Burlington

AWESOME ADDITIONS

“Back to School Owl”

Madelyn Ford, 7, South Burlington

FIRST-EVER PENCIL SUBMISSION

“Swirl”

Hayleigh Aiken, 7, Essex

COOL COWBOY HAT (FUN FIREWORKS, TOO!)

“Mr. Owl Goes to School”

Linden Stelma-Leonard, 8, Westfield

HOT SPOT DOTS

“Toot Toot”

Mikayla Sealy Gosselin, 4, Essex

FAVORITE FLOWER-POWERED SUBMISSION

“60s Disco”

Abbie Jones, 11, Fairfax

WONDERFULLY WEIRD WATERCOLOR

“The Nightmare”

Bryan Ford, 10, South Burlington

BEST BACKGROUNDS

“School is Cool”

Ra Hill-Mosher, 10, Barre

TOP TITLES

“Aww Homework”

Jasmine Crowe, 9, Shelburne

“Owl Holding a Pencil With a Book”

Tess Adams, 5, Essex Junction

“Pizza Pie Owl With a Hat on and Ice Cream in His Hand”

Tess Fontana, 6, South Burlington

“Yes, ‘Owl’ Do My Homework Today”

Sascha Taylor, 9, Westford

“Whooo Goes to School”

Zoe Taylor, 7, Westford

“SSShhh! Mr. Owl is Talking”

Brooke Brunton, 9, Williston

These winners get $25 from TD Bank.

Clay Nicholson, 4 WILLISTON “Hollan”

Hazel Dority, 7

Anna May Brown, 10

THE BEAT

BY KATE LADDISON AND KATHRYN FLAGG

EXHIBITS

Happy Holloween

The Brothers Grimm compiled numerous classic children’s stories, including Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood and Rapunzel. But many of their German folk tales are criticized as being too scary for kids. That fright factor fuels a new exhibit at Frog Hollow Gallery titled FROG HOLLOWEEN. Nine Vermont artists use a variety of media to breathe new life into the brothers’ cautionary tales. Items on exhibit include clay-sculpted ravens and metal-cut girls and wolves. The show is aimed at adults, but kids will enjoy it, too; the opening includes a violin and cello performance by brothers Zani and Gabo Lewis, ages 8 and 11. Director Rob Hunter says he hopes to create a book from the Frog Holloween images and corresponding stories to be sold as a fundraiser for the gallery’s Lessons Exploring Artist Process (LEAP) Frog program, which integrates art into the classroom. — K.L.

FROG HOLLOWEEN: Opening event Friday, October 5, Frog Hollow Gallery, Burlington, 5-8 p.m. The exhibit runs through the month of October. Free. Info, 863-6458, froghollow.org.

EDUCATION

Take it Outside

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM: Located at the Sustainability Academy at Lawrence Barnes, 123 North St., Burlington. Info, 864-8480, sa.bsdvt.org.

Students at Burlington’s Sustainability Academy at Lawrence Barnes are getting down to work — outside the school building. The magnet elementary school recently unveiled an OUTDOOR CLASSROOM where students can experience hands-on learning in the natural world. It’s the first step in transforming the urban school grounds into a little oasis in the Old North End. The new, open-air veranda is fashioned from massive larch logs — rot resistant, incredibly durable and sustainably harvested in Vermont.

The result is part classroom, part playground, where kids can pile onto the benches for a lesson or scamper across benches-turned-balance-beams after school. The school’s biggest champions say that what might look like a cosmetic upgrade is, in fact, a sign of Barnes’ momentum and growing success. “This isn’t just a school. It’s a model of what change in a school can be,” says Chris Sharp, a Burlington High School art teacher who helped design and build the outdoor classroom. “This is the most vibrant change I’ve ever seen made in a school.” — K.F.

MATTHEW THORSEN

COURTESY OF FROG HOLLOW

GALLERY

EDUCATION

Small Scientists

Radio Head

At noon on Tuesdays, when most kids his age are sitting down at a school cafeteria table, 12-year-old Tucker Odum of Montpelier is settling into the booth at WGDR for his live, call-in sports show, TUCKER’S ALWAYS RIGHT. An avid sports fan, the seventh grader learned about the weekly gig at the community-based station from someone who knows his dad, John. He’s homeschooled, so the midday slot wasn’t a problem. After training to run the soundboard and passing the required test, Odum began broadcasting last winter. During one recent show he bantered with his dad, talked with callers about replacement NFL refs and shared his thoughts on the Red Sox outfield: Trade Daniel Nava, keep Will Middlebrooks. During the hourlong broadcast, he touched on most of the big sporting news of the week, but it was clear that baseball is his favorite pastime. His pick to win the World Series? The Cincinnati Reds. Stay tuned. — K.L.

BOOKS

TUCKER’S ALWAYS RIGHT: Airs Tuesdays at noon on WGDRWGDH, 91.1 FM and 91.7 FM.

Homework for Parents

Chittenden County childcare providers seeking to nurture kids’ curiosity about the natural world now have access to some new tools to help them. Last spring, IBM awarded a $10,000 grant to the nonprofit CHILD CARE RESOURCE, which used the funds to purchase magnifying glasses, light tables, scales, magnet blocks, snowshoes and other exploratory playthings. Starting this summer, CCR began loaning the new materials to childcare providers, using its Toy Van service to make deliveries. CCR also gives recipients tips on using the items to encourage science, technology, engineering and math education, aka STEM. In addition to bulking up CCR’s learning-materials lending library, the grant money is also funding a series of public “STEM-inars” at the CCR o ces, such as “So Easy a Baby Can Do It,” which focuses on math and science skills for infants. — K.L.

CHILD CARE RESOURCE: Toy Van visits are available for Chittenden County childcare staff. Fall workshops are open to parents, teachers and providers from Chittenden County and beyond, as space allows. Info, 863-3367, childcareresource.org.

Want to find out what Vicki Hoefle’s Parenting on Track program is all about without signing up for her six-week class? Read her new book instead. In DUCT TAPE PARENTING: A LESS IS MORE APPROACH TO RAISING RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE & RESILIENT KIDS, the East Middlebury resident explains her approach based on the parenting philosophy of Alfred Adler. Does our tiger-mothering, helicopter-parenting, baby-wearing society need another advice book? Well, maybe this one. Hoefle wants parents to use the duct tape of the title to zip their lips and stop nagging their o spring. She argues that kids want to be self-su cient and don’t really need someone to pick up their socks, pack their lunches or wake them up in time for school. Hoefle’s new tome whittles her 20 years of teaching experience down to five chapters focused on what she sees as parents’ biggest stumbling blocks. Then, section two introduces some solutions. If her funny, familiar anecdotes about messy rooms resonate, you might want to take one of her classes after all. — K.L.

DUCT TAPE PARENTING: Bibliomotion, Inc., 224 pages, $19.95. Hoefle signs copies of the new book at three local venues this month: Tuesday, October 9, Flying Pig Bookstore Shelburne, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, October 23, Next Chapter Bookstore, Barre, 7 p.m.; Monday, October 29, Talent Skate Park, Burlington, 7 p.m. More info about Parenting on Track at parentingontrack.com.

Why recycle your old computer? Well,

• it’s free, • it’s tax deductible, • it’s easy, and best of all... • it’s good for the earth.

What are you waiting for?

Drop o your computer and its parts at one of our local donation centers including:

1080 Shelburne Road South Burlington

329 Harvest Lane Williston

Just a cold —or something worse?

BY KEN PICARD

ALL CHILDREN GET colds and often pass them along to their parents and siblings. There are more than 200 di erent viruses that cause colds and upper respiratory infections, which is why we keep getting them throughout our lives.

This month, Dr. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care, o ers advice on how to prepare for the upcoming cold and flu season.

KIDS VT: How common are childhood upper respiratory infections?

LEWIS FIRST: Colds are the most common reason children miss school and why parents bring their children to the doctor. Most otherwise healthy children are going to average five to 10 colds a year in the first two years of life — and that number nearly doubles for kids exposed to secondhand smoke. Colds require supportive care, not antibiotics, and will get better with time.

KVT: What are the most worrisome complications from colds?

Are you thinking about starting or expanding your family?

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.

LF: We worry about children who are so congested that they’re having trouble breathing or can’t stay adequately hydrated. Because infants and toddlers have smaller airways, they tend to be most inconvenienced by congestion. But mucus helps keep the germs out and is part of the healing process. Keep kids’ noses as open and moist as possible and their bodies adequately hydrated, and they’ll get through it in three to five days.

KVT: Are there risks to giving infants and toddlers over-the-counter cough and cold medications?

LF: Yes. These carry side e ects including sedation, irritability and, most concerning, abnormal heart rhythms that in some cases can result in fatalities. Some of these medications say right on the package, “Not to be given to children under the age of 2.”

KVT: What do you recommend instead?

LF: Good ways to deal with a cold are adequate hydration, saltwater nose drops, a cool-mist humidifier and perhaps a little petroleum jelly on the soreness around the nose. Some acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used

if they’re uncomfortable with a fever. Saltwater nose drops can be purchased over the counter or made at home with eight ounces of water and a teaspoon of salt, but only use a few drops of that solution in an infant or child’s nose.

KVT: How do parents differentiate between a cold and the flu?

KVT: What are the risks and benefits of the flu vaccine?

LF: The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all children and adults get the flu shot. The risks of getting the flu and how debilitating it can be far outweigh any risks of the vaccine itself, which is usually associated with a mild fever and some soreness around the injection site. Parents should talk to their health care provider about which type of flu shot is best for their child.

KVT: What is pertussis like?

colds

LF: The flu, or influenza, a ects more parts of the body than just the nose and throat. It comes on more suddenly, so it’ll feel like you’ve hit a brick wall. You may get a headache and chills with a fever. Usually people with the flu feel a lot sicker. They ache more, have a dry cough and are much more fatigued. While most colds last a few days, the aftere ects of the flu can last weeks.

KVT: How can parents “diagnose” a cough?

LF: Di erent coughs can mean di erent things. A barking cough may be associated with croup, or an inflammation of the airway, and may require the use of a steroid. A cough that occurs in cold, dry air, at night or with exercise may be asthma. A persistent cough that won’t stop may be whooping cough. A cough lasting more than a week with a fever as well may be associated with pneumonia. The sudden onset of a cough in an infant or toddler may be caused by a foreign body that went down the wrong pipe.

KVT: When should kids be seen by a doctor?

LF: If kids are having di culty breathing, if they’re not urinating frequently or seem lethargic because they can’t hydrate, they should be seen. Also, if cold symptoms last more than a week or if they’re associated with pain in their chest, ears or sinuses. Sometimes a “super-infection,” or bacterial infection, settles in, which may warrant antibiotics.

LF: It can be a life-threatening illness, particularly in younger infants. In older children and adults, it may just present as a cough that doesn’t give up. It starts as a cold but lasts more than a week or two. Then it becomes a dry, persistent, machine-gun-like cough that prevents the child from taking a breath, so when she finally does, it sounds like a whoop — hence the name whooping cough. In younger children, it can lead to continuous coughing to the point where children can’t take a breath. Children with pertussis have ended up in our intensive care unit, and some have died.

KVT: Your view on the vaccine?

LF: Some studies have shown that 80 to 90 percent of the people in the home of someone with pertussis will get the bacteria. The vaccine is at least 90 percent e ective but doesn’t necessarily last into adulthood. In Vermont, we have seen an upsurge of life-threatening cases. We can’t prove cause and e ect, but there’s certainly an association with the decline in parents who want their children immunized. California and Washington state have seen serious outbreaks and some fatalities. We don’t want that happening here.

BY BECKY THARP ✱ THE LIBRARIAN LIKES

Jumping for Joy

IN MY HOUSE, anything with the slightest bounce is used as a trampoline. Couches, beds, cushions — my boys use all of the above for extra lift and a springy landing as they fling their bodies across the room. Yelling at them to stop has proven futile. Happily, there are places to go where they can leap vigorously and I can keep my cool. At Green Mountain Freestyle Center, jumping and flying through the air is not only allowed; it’s mandatory.

GMFC is an indoor training facility primarily for snowboarders, skiers and skateboarders to practice jumps and aerial tricks. It’s located inside Green Mountain Gymnastics in Williston. Burton posters and continuously looping snowboarding videos projected on giant screens feature professionals getting huge air or carving down impossibly steep slopes. In other words, the place has “cool” written all over it. For my two boys, it was a slice of heaven.

We visited GMFC on a Saturday evening for their Jump Start session. This is an hour-and-a-half mandatory introduction to the equipment, which includes warmup drills and safety skills. You have to complete this training before you can attend one of the “open tramp” or coached sessions.

Mandatory safety might not sound like much fun, but it is. The class started with participants leaping, rolling and running their way through an obstacle course made with gym mats and Hula-Hoops. They learned to tuck their chins when rolling out of a fall and to be aware of their

WHERE TO GO: Green Mountain Freestyle Center, 260 Avenue D, suite #30, Williston

PRICES: $40 person for Jump Start session; $25 person for open session with a coach; $20 without a coach (cash or check only)

WHAT YOU NEED: Comfy clothes

AGES: GMFC accepts participants as young as 5 or 6 but unless your kid is particularly acrobatic, you might want to wait a year or two

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Only participants are allowed into the gym — it’s a liability thing. You can stay behind in a waiting area and think of this as an opportunity for the kids to demonstrate their independence, or you can pay the fee, sign the waiver and take the class, too.

INFO: 652-2455 or greenmountainfreestyle.com

landing area. Then they moved on to the good stu : flips.

Taking turns, each person ran along the approach track and sprang o the launch board, landing in a pit of foam. My kids didn’t know how to do flips, but the class gave them some pointers. The instructors teach each new skill by breaking down the elements of the move. Students build confidence by mastering tricks progressively. My 10-year-old, Kieran, was doing front flips into the foam pit after just a few tries. His younger brother Wylie, at just 6, didn’t quite get there, but he was happy to be jumping on bouncy surfaces without his mom yelling at him.

Once the kids mastered the basics and proved they had their safety skills down, they headed to the elevated trampoline area. This was the only part of the class I couldn’t observe directly from the waiting area reserved for nonparticipants. Luckily, the camera mounted over the trampolines feeds live images to a flat-screen TV, so I was able to watch without leaving my seat.

Jumping on the trampolines teaches kids safe ways to spin in the air and how to control their bounces. Once he got comfortable with the movement, Kieran even strapped on one of the inhouse snowboards to get the sensation of performing those pirouettes on the mountain.

I’m not really ready to see my babies flip through the air without a net to catch them, though. Until I am, they’ll have to keep practicing — and GMFC sure beats the living room.

“Fit Families” is a monthly feature that offers easy and affordable ways to stay active. Got an idea for a future FF? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

Corless’ summary: In this classic chapter book by the author of James and the Giant Peach, witches roam the world like ordinary people. A young boy’s grandmother tries to protect him by teaching him how to recognize witches. However, when the boy and his grandmother take what is meant to be a relaxing vacation, they find themselves sharing a hotel with all of the witches of England as well as the Grand High Witch of the World. Though frightened, the boy steps up to the challenge of ridding the world of witches and protecting children everywhere.

LIBRARIAN: Caitlin Corless, assistant librarian, Essex Free Library

Why

BOOK: The Witches by Roald Dahl

AGE RANGE: 8 and up

kids (and adults) love it: With quirky illustrations of bald, toeless witches, this hilarious adventure keeps readers on the edges of their seats. It may be a bit too thrilling for some, but early chapter-book readers looking for a somewhat scary story this Halloween will find The Witches to be a real treat! Read aloud or independently, it o ers a great blend of humor and adventure for frightful fun.

“The Librarian Likes” features a different librarian and book each month. Got an idea for a future LL?

Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.

FIT FAMILIES

MATTHEW THORSEN

Wylie Tharp

Seeing

The grade on children’s programs in four Addison County towns

VERMONT’S STEP AHEAD RECOGNITION SYSTEM (STARS) helps parents evaluate programs that care for their kids. Sponsored by the Child Development Division of the Vermont Department for Children and Families, STARS assigns star rankings to participating childcare, preschool and after-school programs.

Programs must apply to receive a ranking.

The STARS coordinators consider applicants’ qualifications and operating policies, then assign them one to five stars. A single star means a program is new or examining its practices and working to improve

SHINING STAR Each month, Kids VT spotlights one four- or five-star program from the featured geographical area.

them; a five-star ranking signifies that an applicant is established and outstanding in all areas. Parents who meet the state’s income-eligibility guidelines may pay less for childcare if they enroll their children in programs with three, four or five stars. Each month, Kids VT publishes an excerpt of the list of STARS participants. This month’s issue features the listings from four Addison County towns; the Middlebury listings appeared in the September issue. Find them online at kidsvt.com. And find more information about STARS, a complete list of rankings and other childcare resources at dcf.vermont.gov/cdd/stars.

BRISTOL

Addison County Northeast Early Education Program 57 Mountain Street, 453-3227

Briggs Day Care 233 South 116 Road, 453-5070

Bristol Family Center 16 Orchard Terrace, 453-5659

Mountain View Home Child Care 186 Purinton Road, 453-5322

Sue Owen-Jankowski 1000 South 116 Road, 453-4071

WALTHAM

The Ark Preschool/ Kindergarten 862 Route 7, Waltham, 877-3393

WHITING

Whiting Community Preschool 87 South Main Street, 623-7991

Weeping Willow Child Care and Preschool 12 North Main Street, 623-6476

Kristina Anderson 163 Stickney Road, 623-6895

Evergreen Preschool

30 South Water Street, Vergennes, 877-6702

Type of program: Private, nonprofit preschool that follows the Addison Northwest Supervisory Union school-year calendar.

Year opened: 1982

Age range of children: Ages 3 to 5.

Next field trip: Art workshop at Studio V and Treasure Island at the Vergennes Opera House.

Favorite outdoor activity: This time of year, digging for treasures in the sand; in the winter, sledding.

Favorite rainy-day activity: Building rivers, ponds and dams with water that collects in the sand outside.

Favorite book: According to program director Lisa Presson: “We have a large collection of Eric Carle books that we read and on which we base portions of our curriculum.”

Most recent staff development activity: The Teaching Strategies Gold Assessment Training sponsored by the Vermont Department of Education.

VERGENNES

Evergreen Preschool 30 South Water Street, 877-6702

Addison Northwest Supervisory Union Early Education Program 43 East Street, 877-2867

CALEB KENNA

Lisa Presson

BECAUSE

PROJECT

WITH SUPPORT FROM

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

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

For an awful lot of people who have figured out interesting paths in life, there seems to have been a teacher somewhere along the way who believed in them. I don’t mean “believed in them” in some sweet and sentimental way — I mean, believed that they were capable of more than they knew. For me, it was a high school history teacher named Ray Karras, who taught me at Lexington High School in Lexington, Mass.

He was nobody’s stereotype of the “favorite teacher,” easy on the grades and eager to banter with his young charges. (That was the social studies teacher down the hall, in bell-bottoms and a mustache, who later went to jail for selling drugs.) No, Mr. Karras treated us as if we were, or should be, young academics. He demanded papers that presented well laid-out arguments — long papers! If you asked him to write a college recommendation, he would — but only in a sealed envelope sent straight to the college, and it was well known that sometimes he told them to reject the applicant.

So: A compliment counted. I remember him telling me one day, “You’re a good writer.” I was used to adults telling me this, but only because I was glib and knew a lot of words and hence was able to get away with a good deal. When Mr. Karras said it, I actually believed it. Doubtless he gave me a B, but doubtless it was worth a good deal more than all the top grades I ever got.

Submit your stories for the Because Project!

Email them to fagan@vtchildrenstrust. org. Submissions should be 300 to 600 words long and respond to the prompt "I am/decided to/learned to _______ because of ______." Kids VT will feature one of these stories in each issue.

I became a better writer BECAUSE of a demanding high school teacher.

BILL

MCKIBBEN, AUTHOR, EDUCATOR AND ENVIRONMENTALIST

VERMONT CHILDREN’S TRUST FOUNDATION PRESENTS THE

Q oUT To EAT b y cindy m O rgan

Farmhouse Tap & Grill

on A good nighT in my house, dinner hits the table at 6:30 p.m. But when we dine out as a family, we eat closer to 5 p.m. — senior-citizen hour. We go early so we’re less likely to have to wait for a table with our hungry, impatient children. We find other diners at that hour either have kids, too — or some hearing loss.

You definitely want to arrive early at the Farmhouse Tap & Grill; on a weeknight, get there around 5:30, maybe 5:45. Any later and you can expect a lengthy wait in a narrow foyer with nary a seat in sight. We arrived to snag a table in the quiet dining room with a handful of families and a few customers enjoying drinks after work. If the weather had been nicer, we might have chosen a table on the front patio where the kids would have been freer to roam.

The Farmhouse menu is as family-friendly as any restaurant in downtown Burlington, full of comfort food — fried chicken, pulled pork, macaroni and cheese, and burgers in at least five varieties, including beef, turkey, pork, veggie and portabello. The emphasis is on locally sourced ingredients, which means your burger will cost $14, but the taste of high-quality, grass-fed beef from a local farm is worth it. The beer menu is a wonder, with more than 15 selections on tap, several of which are brewed in Vermont.

My children agonized over the menu. Burger or mac and cheese? Kids’ mac and cheese or adult? Which did I think would be better? UN Security Council negotiations have been quicker and less complicated than placing our dinner order. In the end, they split the difference: one ordered a burger; the other opted for mac and cheese. They agreed to swap tastes.

My husband ordered the grass-fed Vermont beef burger, and I took a chance on the Farmhouse veggie burger. I have never ordered a veggie burger in my life, but the topping combination of kimchi, sharp cheddar cheese and pickled jalapenos sold it.

The adults sipped Hill Farmstead ales while the kids enjoyed Rookie’s Root Beer — both on tap, both delicious. All around us, kids colored with crayons and tantalizing food was delivered to nearby tables. We saw one order of onion rings that looked as big as stroller wheels. The passing plate smelled like heaven.

Our meals were beautiful to look at and even better to eat. My daughter almost swooned when she first tasted the macaroni and cheese. When she discovered the pot of housemade garlic aioli on our table, she grabbed a few french fries from her brother’s plate and started dipping. Across the

oUr bill for foUr: $97.54

Kid-friendly amenities: seven high chairs, crayons, kids menu with meals ranging from: $4.50 to $6.75

table my son kept mumbling, “This meat is amazing.” My husband mumbled in response, “Mmmm hmmmm.”

It may have been the quietest dinner in our family’s history.

The one bite of beef I managed to get was amazing, but it was nothing

compared to the veggie burger. The patty is more like a soft, well-seasoned falafel than a soy product posing as meat. One perfect bite — kimchi, sharp cheddar, fresh buttery roll, wellseasoned patty, then a pop of pickled jalapeno — and I was in love. I find myself dreaming about this sandwich almost daily.

Sadly, my kids’ busy schedules assure I’ll be in this dream state for a while. K

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

Leo, 3 and dave buffington

Across the table my son kept mumbling, “This meat is amazing.”

PeTer VondoePP, BUrLinGTon

PoLiTicaL science Professor, UVm Daughter, Sarah, 12; son, Asher, 9

My daughter and I sat down and watched Michelle Obama’s convention speech together, but that was less about politics than it was an opportunity for her to see a powerful woman give a very eloquent and poised speech.

More topics are likely to come up in the next few weeks. Last night, my son wanted to know how our government worked. I explained about representation and checks and balances. Closer to the election we’ll have to discuss the electoral college — but honestly, I have trouble getting my college freshmen and sophomores to understand that!

My daughter recently wanted to know the difference between Democrats and Republicans. We have both in our family, so it’s important for us to stress that political differences are not a source of fundamental differences — we don’t build communities around political affiliations.

Inevitably, our biases will leak out in conversations with the kids, and that’s natural, but we also try to instill a more sophisticated understanding of both parties.

shay ToTTen, BUrLinGTon

commUnicaTions direcTor, cheLsea Green PUBLishinG, and former seVendaysPoLiTicaL coLUmnisT

Sons Max, 16, and Phineas, 14; daughter, Zelda, 9

Yes, we talk politics in our home. I know, shocker. Generally, the kids ask us questions based on what they read, see or hear in the media. It happens over homework, during walks to and from school, randomly at the dinner table or when we’re just hanging out at home. Since both my partner and I take a regular interest in politics, we tend to talk about these things in front of them a lot, too. We want our kids to maintain their natural curiosity and questioning attitude about life in general, and politics is no different.

If I did anything by intention, it was bringing the kids along on my job when I was covering politics. I would take them to rallies, political campaign events and the like and have them in a stroller or backpack. They’d just sit there and listen and questions would naturally come up. I didn’t shield them from the issues at hand. They naturally had questions about big things, like “Why are they marching?” and “What are those signs?” so we’d talk about why the demonstrators were doing what they were doing. I didn’t expect them to absorb everything, but I’d explain that the marches were all part of how people express their opinions and their constitutional freedoms.

John charron, sheLBUrne

Trade marKeTinG manaGer, Green moUnTain coffee roasTers

Sons Hayden, 5, and Charlie, 3

Since our kids are younger, their interest in politics is minimal. However, my cousin, T.J. Donovan, just ran for attorney general, and the kids were able to get involved in the campaign. We went to a lot of community parades and events where the kids would wear candidate T-shirts and hand out candy — they thought that was neat, but I also wanted them to understand why we were there. I tried to explain the basics of why we were making signs and stuff, as well as the bigger picture.

At first there was a little confusion, but I think they have a basic grasp of what’s happening. Had we not had a politician in the family, we still would have talked about the election at home, but we maybe wouldn’t have been as proactive.

We try to instill a sense of how much one person and one vote really does matter. We read a children’s book called My Mama Voted for Obama that shows someone going into a voting booth to vote for a person to be president and why that’s important, and that helped.

My oldest came with me when we went to the town clerk’s office to vote early — it wasn’t quite the same experience as going to the polls, and standing in a voting booth, but I think he did grasp the concept.

John odUm, monTPeLier

monTPeLier ciTy cLerK and foUnder of LiBeraL PoLiTicaL BLoG Green moUnTain daiLy Sons Tucker, 13, and Zane, 8

We don’t go out of our way to bring it up, but our household has been steeped in politics for decades now, so it often comes up organically. My wife and I really try to take time for any questions the boys might have, especially if our answers can help put current events in perspective for them. The political conversations that come up generally involve social issues, like discrimination around race and sexual orientation.

We invite them to political events and rallies, but we don’t force them to go. My oldest was a baby when the civil-unions law was passing, and I remember walking around the Statehouse, with him in a baby carrier covered in stickers. Now that they’re older, we encourage them to judge the world according to the opinions they’ve formed themselves.

In an election year like this one, we talk about which candidates we like and why, and we try to use that as an opportunity to discuss the political spectrum from left to right. The tricky part is explaining how we feel about candidates while also giving them room to make their own decisions.

Eyeing Visual Art

“my splaTTer painT is in the negative space, right?” asks Tess Everett, 7, studying her watercolor painting of an apple.

Her instructor, Ashley Veselis, assures her that it is, and the class of 8- to 10-yearolds returns to studying their paintings. They’re learning how to look at art, one of the fundamental skills taught in the Junior Visual Arts class at the Shelburne Craft School.

“When you’re working with kids this age, the most important thing is to help them find a way of expressing themselves,” says Veselis. “The other important thing is to help them look at art and discuss it — no matter what the subject is.”

With Veselis to guide the discussion, the kids talk about paint strokes, subject matter and white space. They decide that the paint strokes on one apple give it motion, while the purplish color of another makes it look a little unsavory to eat. Veselis assures them that there’s no wrong interpretation. The same philosophy will apply throughout the rest of this six-week course that includes instruction in drawing, painting, collage and printmaking.

This week, the theme is charcoal drawing and painting still lifes. Veselis has given the kids five apples to paint and draw. The fruit both inspires and tempts them; they would clearly prefer to draw a halfeaten apple — or better yet, an apple core. But before they can devour their subjects, Veselis explains how to draw the apple, which is not the perfectly round sphere the brain imagines it sees.

“Start at the stem, and imagine an ant marching around the side of the apple, and pretend that’s your charcoal,” she says, drawing a wide, bumpy circle on the surface of the paper. “Keep your eyes on the apple, and just let your charcoal feel its way across the paper.”

This experiment produces mixed results. Tess Everett and Eliza Brooks, 8, immediately start giggling over the worms

Fall

they’ve drawn emerging from the apple. Loa Georgsdottir, 8, sits with her chin in her hands for a minute, studying her subject. At a nearby table, siblings Mason and Eula Palmer, ages 10 and 8, finish their first sketch quickly, then ask if they can free-draw.

Veselis, who also teaches Hand Building in Clay for ages 6 and up, explains that this is one of the challenges of teaching mixed visual art to a relatively young group: Attention spans are short.

“Freedom of expression is important in any form,” she says, “but it’s also important to get something out of each class. The best way to do that is to find projects that everyone is interested in.”

The class concludes with a still life of plastic grapes, a baseball, a goblet and some plastic flowers — which the budding artists approach with varying levels of intensity. One girl paints with fierce concentration, while several of the others finish quickly and then begin eating the apples. At the end of the day, everyone goes home with a finished painting and, if Veselis has her way, a new view of something they thought they’d seen before. K

iF you go:

all supplies are included when you sign up for Junior Visual arts at the shelburne craft school; be sure to have your child wear old clothing that can get paint or other craft materials on it. session two of Junior Visual arts begins on november 1. shelburne craft school, 64 harbor road, shelburne. Info, 985-3648.

“The

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

matthew thorsen

Tess Everett

With Veselis to guide the discussion, the kids talk about paint strokes, subject matter and white space.

Eli Danyow, Chad Holcom, Riley Wlbur and Ian Ballou

ost high schoolers are ready to bolt after the last class of the day. What would make them stay voluntarily until janitors kicked them out around midnight, night after night?

Ask Riley Wilbur and Ian Ballou, both 15 and members of the Essex High School robotics club. Last year, Riley, Ian and their eight Essex teammates put in long hours after school every day building a ’bot, which had to be able to stack crates, pick up raquetballs and roll bowling balls, all while other robots jockeyed around it.

The group competes in tournaments organized by a New Hampshire-based nonprofit called For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, which aims to inspire kids to become innovative, well-rounded leaders through mentor-based robotics programs. Each year, FIRST issues a challenge, and thousands of teams around the world design and build robots to complete it.

The Essex kids’ e orts paid o . The team earned a spot at the FIRST world championship event, held each year in St. Louis, Missouri. This increasingly popular youth robotics competition doesn’t take place in some high school gym; the Essex team put their robot to the test in Edward Jones Dome, home stadium of the St. Louis Rams, packed with more than 100,000 cheering fans.

“It was amazing,” recalls Ian.

skills that might someday score them a job.

FIRST is an international phenomenon, with a projected 306,000 students participating in competitions this academic year. Robotics fever hasn’t quite hit Vermont — but it’s about to. This February, the first-ever FIRST Tech Challenge will be held at the University of Vermont, and at least six 10member teams from around the state plan to participate.

If you think engineering is for introverted brainiacs, search for videos from some of these FIRST competitions on YouTube. They’re not hard to find. The timed matches are surprisingly dramatic. So are the fans; some teams bring cheerleaders, rally flags and costumed mascots to cheer them on. The action unfolds on Jumbotrons. The big tournaments are like something you’d see on ESPN.

was smitten. When he returned to Vermont, he got UVM signed on as an a liated partner with FIRST.

Segway inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST in 1989. Dickey says Kamen felt strongly that kids with an interest in programming and robotics

planning committee for the Vermont FIRST Tech Challenge Championship. His team has competed in FIRST competitions every year, though last year was the first time they made it to the championship round. According to Chase, teaching robotics in schools is still “very rare.”

But he also notes that what he and his kids do in robotics club isn’t that di erent from what kids have been doing in traditional carpentry and mechanics classes for generations: building stu . “Robotics is just a natural extension of that,” he says.

Riley’s mom, Beth Wilbur, attended the Essex team’s qualifying competition in New Hampshire last year. After listening to her son explain what they’d been working on, she thought she had an idea of what she would see. “But when you see it in real life, it’s so di erent,” she says. There are obstacles, for one thing, including strategically placed crates — and other robots. “You don’t get how much the other robots on the field interact

“no longer needed to be the nerds in the basement.” Their enthusiasm “should be glorified, it should be celebrated,” says Dickey. This mission has struck a chord with companies and government agencies that hope to develop the country’s 21st-century workforce; in 2010, NASA awarded FIRST a $20 million grant. There are four levels of FIRST competitions, from 6- to 9-year-olds solving real-world challenges with LEGOs to advanced high school students building complex, cuttingedge robots. Teams don’t have to be a liated with a school; the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich has a LEGO League team (see sidebar), as do 4-H clubs, Boy Scouts and groups of homeschooled kids. But they must include 10 members and a mentor — “the incredibly hardworking, overqualified people who are passionate about helping kids,” says Dickey.

Vermont kids build ’bots— and character — in robotics competitions

BY MEGAN JAMES

If it sounds like an athletic event, well, it kind of is. “That’s the way FIRST is going,” says Doug Dickey, assistant dean of the University of Vermont’s College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences. “It’s going to evolve into a varsity sport.” Like other varsity sports, robotics teaches kids invaluable lessons about teamwork, collaboration, and winning and losing with grace. But it also gives them practical technical and problem-solving

and interfere,” she says. “It’s chaos, complete chaos, on that field.”

Dickey saw the Essex team compete in St. Louis. “Watching these kids socialize and show o their skills, it was profoundly infectious,” he says. Halfway into that competition, he

FIRST teams also recruit local companies to sponsor them. Last year, the Essex team got to use the facilities of Greensea Systems, a Richmondbased engineering firm that develops underwater, unmanned vehicles. The Greensea sta helped them prepare to compete in St. Louis.

The Essex High School robotics team has been around for about a decade, thanks to veteran science teacher Joe Chase, who is on the

It’s an extension made possible by the incredibly high-tech tools that schools can now put in kids’ hands — Essex’s brand-new “fablab” is equipped with a 3-D printer, among other awe-inspiring machines. “Before, the tools [one would use in robotics] were fairly inaccessible,” says Chase. These days, technology is “smaller, cheaper and modular, so you don’t have to make everything from scratch.”

And FIRST robotics competitions aren’t just about science and engineering, notes Saint Michael’s College physics professor Alain Brizard, also on the Tech Challenge planning committee. These teams are solving problems first, building a robot second. “Not everybody on the team will fit the same mold,” says Brizard. “We will need writers, artists, painters, as well as engineers, to put everything together. It’s a very exciting concept.”

Collaboration is key — not just within robotics teams, but across teams, too. Each match of a FIRST competition involves four to six different teams, and their various robots,

The Vermont FIRST Tech Challenge Championship Tournament is Saturday, February 23, at the University of Vermont Davis Center. Info, usfirst.org. Want to form a team and compete? See pages 26 & 27 to find out how.

Not everybody on the team will fit the same mold. We will need writers, artists, painters, as well as engineers.

ALAIN BRIZARD

teen transformers

split into two “alliances,” competing against one another. “Your opponent one match could be your collaborator the next,” says Brizard. Which is why each team often includes a “scout,” whose job is to scope out the strengths and weaknesses of other teams in the competition.

“In engineering, it’s always, do you want to be fast or do you want to be strong?” says Kristin Winer, an Essex Junction-based engineer on the planning committee. “You can’t be everything to everybody. So, you kind of pick where your skill set is and where you think you’ll score the most points.”

Teams want to score points and win, of course, but the competition, says Chase, is surprisingly civil. “You’ll never hear any booing at these competitions, because students marvel at other students’ accomplishments,” he says. And parents and coaches are forbidden from approaching judges or referees, so if kids are upset about something, they have to deal with it on their own. “They have to go to the referee and say, ‘I didn’t agree with that, and this is why,’” says Winer. “It really does empower them.”

Last year, the Essex kids made it to the world championship not because of their robot’s performance, but because of their overall creativity and the eloquence with which they presented their strategy to judges at the qualifying competition in New Hampshire. “Our robot didn’t perform very well,” admits Ian Ballou. “But in our interview with the judges, they really liked how we worked together as a team.” That earned them FIRST’s top prize, the Inspire Award, given to

the team that best embodies the spirit of the competition.

They’re hoping to make it back this year, but even if they don’t, Ian and Riley appreciate the small wins, too. “Just seeing [the robot] work is awesome,” says Riley.

“If you have a success with building a robot,” adds Ian, “even if it’s just a small one, it feels really good.” K

Members of the essex High School robotics club will be at the Vermont tech Jam on october 26 and 27 at the champlain Mill in Winooski. they’ll talk about how to start a robotics club, and discuss their journey to the FIrSt world championships on Friday, october 26, at 10:30 a.m. School groups are welcome that day from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, club members will be selling refreshments from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to raise funds for their upcoming tournaments. rSVP at bit. ly/tech-jam-2012-field-trip-rSVP. Admission is free.

The Essex team put their robot to the test in the home stadium of the st. Louis Rams, packed with more than 100,000 cheering fans.

Joe chase and travis Miller

The LEGo League

t’s never too early to encourage kids’ budding interest in robotics. At the Montshire Museum of Science, a team of 9- to 14-year-olds is building a robot out of LeGos. If all goes well, they’ll debut the creation in November at a regional FIrSt robotics competition at the thayer School of engineering at Dartmouth.

Aaron Lamperti, an exhibits technician at the museum, says he didn’t need to advertise to round up 10 area kids for the FIrSt LeGo League team he’s coaching. both of his daughters, 9 and 13, are on the team. After taking computer-programming classes at school, they’re familiar with animating characters with basic graphic programs, so switching to LeGo robots isn’t a stretch. Like most techsavvy kids these days, says Lamperti, “they’re primed to do it.”

Anticipating that his robotics club would attract mostly boys, Lamperti asked his daughters to recruit their girlfriends. Mission accomplished. “these girls are not at all saying, ‘that’s not for me; that’s a boy thing. they’re

just sort of technically minded kids interested in building stuff.”

the Montshire team is one of more than 20,000 teams participating in this year’s LeGo League around the world. each has the same intriguing challenge: research a technical problem that people encounter as they age, then design a LeGo robot that can accomplish small tasks related to that problem.

At the competition, they’ll be asked to give a presentation on their research and to solve a new problem on the spot, such as building a bridge out of toothpicks and marshmallows. “the judges will watch them to see how they communicate, how they solve problems,” says Lamperti.

As a dad, Lamperti says he’s noticed a cultural shift in how kids who geek out on computers and code are perceived by their peers — and how they perceive themselves. “My older daughter considers herself to be a nerd,” he says. “that’s her thing, that’s her crowd. She loves to meet people who are into the things she’s into. that’s a big change.”

Zae eanet and Joshua Putnam to M M

The Games Girls Play

Parents and educators have been talking for years about the importance of exposing tween and teenage girls to strong female role models in books and movies — characters who are more than love interests or sidekicks waiting around for a male hero to save them.

But what about video games? Nearly every electronic device is also a gaming platform, and virtually all girls play; a 2008 study from the Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project reported that 94 percent of girls ages 12 to 17 play video games. And that was before Angry Birds.

“What I found was even worse than I expected,” reports Hillary Reinsberg, associate editor of the online news organization BuzzFeed Shift, in a recent withering review of online games geared toward girls headlined, “Tween Girl Video Games: Let’s Go Shopping and Find Rich Boyfriends.”

Reinsberg spent a few days playing some of the most popular online games targeted at 8- to 12-year-old girls, such as Shopaholic, Beauty Resort and Fashion Icon. “Not only are the games pretty poorly designed and uncreative in their storylines,” she writes, “they also teach misguided values. Many of the games taught that romantic partners should be rich and buy you things; that shopping for pricey clothes is the way to get

ahead; and that stereotypically female jobs and activities, like working at a fashion magazine or baking, are the only options for girls.”

Not surprising, perhaps, since the video-game industry remains dominated by male programmers and designers who haven’t quite figured out how to create and market games for girls.

To find some popular games that don’t reinforce negative female stereotypes, we turned to Champlain College, home to a growing undergraduate video-game program.

Women are definitely underrepresented there, too — they account for just 31 of the 346 students in the game-design, game programming, and game art and animation majors. But program director Amanda Crispel says those numbers are growing. In October, she’s headed to an all-girls scienceand math-focused event in New York to recruit more students.

Several of Champlain’s female gaming undergrads o er a few of their favorite games — the ones appropriate for tween and teen girls, anyway. The students also suggest that parents research the games their kids are playing. The Entertainment Software Rating Board has rated most console and mobile games. Those ratings can be found at esrb.org or downloaded on your Windows Phone, Android or iPhone.

FemaleFriendly Picks

ESRB Ratings:

E = Everyone

E10+ = Everyone over 10

T = Teen

Portal

This single-player puzzler stars Chell, a girl trapped in a scientific testing facility. A computerized life form presents her with a series of challenges, which requires her to use her portal gun to move from room to room. The player opens holes in the walls through which Chell, and various objects, can teleport. Samantha Tow, a senior in the game art and animation program, is a fan. She points out that the only time Chell’s face appears is in a mirror at the beginning of the game. For the rest of the game, the player looks out over the front of the gun. “The point of the game isn’t the girl herself; it’s the puzzles,” she says. “If no one pays attention to the mirror, you wouldn’t even know if it’s a girl or a boy. It’s just you.”

Rating: T

Available for:

Mac OS X

Microsoft Windows

PlayStation 3

Xbox 360

Mirror’s Edge

In this single-player, action-adventure game, a young woman named Faith Connors must save her sister, Kate, who has been framed for murder. Using parkour running, climbing and leaping techniques, Faith navigates the streets and rooftops of their dystopian metropolis, evading enemies. “Faith is not an overly sexualized character that is just there as eye candy,” says Lena Wagner, a sophomore game art and animation major. “She’s a very real, strong woman and is one of the greatest heroines in games out there.”

Rating: T

Available for:

PlayStation 3

Windows PC

Xbox 360

Legend of Zelda

This fantasy game series debuted in 1986, back when phones were attached to walls. The premise is simple: Link, the hero, must save Princess Zelda. But Zelda is not just a pretty face; in some titles she can fight, too. In The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks, for example, Link and Zelda go into battle together. Wagner praises the series for its “beautiful stories” and “wonderful characters.” “The original game is still thought of as one of the greatest games of all time,” she says, “and quite a few women play a key role in the story.”

Rating: Some games E, E10+ and T

Available for: Nintendo platforms

Future video-game designers recommend good games for girls BY CATHY RESMER

Kingdom Hearts

Kingdom Hearts is “the first game I really fell in love with,” says Erin Trzcinski, a game-programming senior from Rutland. Playing the game, from Disney Interactive Studios and Square Enix, feels a bit like being inside a Disney movie. Sora, the hero, must fight an enemy known as the Heartless while looking for his friends, Riku and Kairi. Also on the quest are Donald Duck and Goofy, as well as characters

Mario Galaxy series.” Wagner notes that Super Princess Peach, an older game for the Nintendo DS, gives the traditional Mario formula a twist: “Mario and Luigi are kidnapped instead, and Princess Peach must go out to save them.”

Rating: E

Available for:

Nintendo platforms

sonic Rush

This single- and two-player game introduces a female character to Sega’s Sonic the Hedgehog series: Blaze the Cat, so named because of her power to control fire. The evil Dr. Eggman has stolen Blaze’s seven emeralds, and she has to fight various baddies to get them back. Sonic is trying to get his emeralds back, too. Players can choose to embody either Sonic or Blaze. Says Wagner, “Blaze has her own story in the games, and I honestly prefer to play her over Sonic, the main character of the series.”

Rating: E

from the popular Final Fantasy series. Madeleine Bialkin, a junior who’s minoring in game design, loves it, too. “It’s the reason that I am a video-game developer,” she says. “It’s a game about the love of two characters and the balance of light and dark in your heart ... The women are somewhat scantily clad, but I highly recommend it.”

Rating: Some games E, some E10+

Available for:

Game Boy Advance

Nintendo DS and 3DS mobile phones

PlayStation 2, 3 and Portable

mario games

Though protagonists Mario and Luigi are male, the many Mario games — Super Mario Bros., Super Paper Mario, etc. — get high marks from most of the Champlain gamers. “Any Mario game is fun to play and is completely familyfriendly,” says Wagner. “Some games are great to play with friends, like the Mario Party series and the New Super Mario Bros. Wii, while others are great single-player games like the Super

Available for:

Nintendo DS

The sims

Teens can buy their own home and furnish it however they please in this series of real-life simulation games, which includes titles such as The Sims: Superstar and The Sims: Livin’ Large. Players give their characters jobs, schedule meal times and manage their household finances — not terribly exciting for grown-ups, but good training for kids antsy to be out on their own. If players don’t take care of their Sims, they die. “Games in this franchise are easy to learn and very engaging,” says senior game art major Margaret van Dyke, “and you can make characters be male or female and wear whatever you want.”

Rating: T

Available for:

GameCube

Mac OS

Microsoft Windows

PlayStation 2

Xbox

Learn more about the video-game program at Champlain College, and play some of the games students have designed, at the Vermont Tech Jam, Friday and Saturday, October 26 and 27, at the Champlain Mill in Winooski. Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Info, techjamvt.com.

Eddie Spaghetti

Made with marinara or butter. $5 | add 2 meatballs for $1.5

Grilled Cheese

KIDS MENU

Texas toast with cheddar & american cheese. Ser ved with a side of hand-cut fries. $5

Chicken Tenders

Free-range chicken tenders. Served with a side of hand-cut fries. $6

Hamburger or Cheeseburger

PT farms all-natural grass-fed beef. Ser ved with a side of hand-cut fries. $6.5

Personal Pie

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

Pizza Roll

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

Nearly every electronic device is now a gaming platform, and virtually all girls play.

“My 7th grade student is a big fan of tech and he thought this was a great chance to make connections for his future.”

“This was one of the students' favorite field trips last year.”

ROB TICS START A FIRST ROBOTICS TEAM

FIRST = For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology

"To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders."

Dean Kamen, Founder

FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES

Junior FIRST® LEGO® League

Jr.FLL (Grades K-2)

Focused on building students' interest in science and engineering, Jr.FLL is a hands-on program that captures young children's inherent curiosity and directs it toward discovering the possibilities of improving the world around them. Students work with LEGO elements and moving parts to build ideas and concepts and present them for review.

FIRST Lego League

FLL (Grades 4-8)

Introduces younger students to real-world engineering challenges by building LEGO-based robots to complete tasks on a thematic playing surface. FLL teams, guided by their imaginations and adult coaches, discover exciting career possibilities and, through the process, learn to make positive contributions to society.

FIRST Tech Challenge

FTC (Grades 7-12)

FTC is designed for those who want to compete head to head, using a sports model. Teams of up to 10 students are responsible for designing, building, and programming their robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams. Teams, including coaches, mentors and volunteers develop strategy and build robots based on sound engineering principles. Awards are given for the competition as for well as for community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments.

FIRST Robotics Competition

FRC (Grades 9-12)

"The Varsity Sport for the Mind," FRC combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. Under strict rules, limited resources and time limits, teams of 25 students or more are challenged to raise funds, design a team "brand," hone teamwork skills, and build and program robots to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. It’s as close to "real-world engineering" as a student can get. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team.

HOW TO START A TEAM:

• Check usfirst.org for info on dates, times and finances

• Get friends together and build excitement

• Find an organization that can help with space, storage, sponsorship (school, 4H, scouting troupe, Grange, church)

• Find engineering mentors

Teams in Vermont:

FTC: Brattleboro (Rockybalboto)

East Montpelier (Robo Raiders)

Essex Junction (Cyborg Gentleman Crabs)

Hinesburg (RoboHawks)

FRC: Randolph & Rutland

The Vermont FIRST FTC Championship

Saturday, February 23 University of Vermont

Davis Center

To compete, or to volunteer as a mentor, visit usfirst.org or uvm. edu/~first/ or email first@uvm.edu

Helping promote robotics & engineering education in our community:

OCT CALENDAR CALENDAR

Street Treats

Trick or treating in the daytime isn’t quite as spooky as going from house to house at night, but there are some real advantages to the annual COSTUME PARADE sponsored by Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace: Temps are warmer; trick or treating storeto-store is safe and efficient; and your witches and wizards get to show off their dress-up duds in the daylight. Best of all, it’s the Saturday morning before Halloween.

CHURCH STREET TRICK-ORTREATING: Saturday, October 27, Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, 10:30 a.m., parade at noon. Free. Info, 863-1648, churchstreetmarketplace.com.

Like Fletcher Allen Health Care on Facebook and get weekly updates from Dr. First!

2 TUESDAY Arts

From Page to Stage: Young actors explore classic children’s books and bring the characters to life on stage. Very Merry Theatre, Burlington, 3:45-5:45 p.m. $12. Info, 355-1461.

Co unity

Polar Express Ticket Lottery: Families request up to five tickets for a magical train ride from King Street to the North Pole. Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation, Burlington, Oct. 5, 8 a.m. $35; free for kids under 2. Info, 888-475-5437.

Education

Hunter Education: Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department sta teach sessions used in obtaining a hunting license. Essex Middle School, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1342.

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Kids Eat Free at Boloco: Small ones with big appetites get a free kids meal or custom burrito. Ages birth-12. Boloco, Burlington, 4-8 p.m. Free. Info, 658-9771.

Health & Fitne

Family Archery: Parents and kids take aim at a new sport. No experience required. Preregister. Farrell Park, South Burlington, 5:45 p.m. $10 for South Burlington residents; $15 nonresidents. Info, 846-4108.

Library & B ks

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

Creative Tuesdays: Crafters use their imagination and recycled materials. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories: Fall Leaves: Jump into the science and fun of foliage during this interactive program. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

3 WEDNESDAY

Arts

Art for Tots: Children create their own masterpieces using a wide range of materials in a relaxed yet adventurous atmosphere. Ages 18 months to 4 years. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 10-11 a.m. $10 to drop-in. Info, 802 457-3500.

Readers Theatre Rehearsals: Book lovers prepare a play based on the Civil War drama Bull Run, rehearsing for a performance at Memorial Hall. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956.

Co unity

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.

Parent Playgroup: Caregivers share stories and dessert while crafting a toy to bring home to the kids. Adults only. South Burlington Community Library, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Polar Express Ticket Lottery: See October 2.

Education

Afternoons With Farmer Fred: Plymouth’s Fred DePaul demonstrates historic farming activities such as sheep shearing and logging. He also loves to give wagon rides in good weather. Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, Plymouth, 1-5 p.m. $2-7.50; free for kids under 6. Info, 672-3773.

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.

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

Health & Fitne

Afternoon Hoops: Basketball-loving high school students spend the afternoon dribbling, shooting and scoring. Preregister. St. Albans City Hall, 2:303:45 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Kids Open Gymnastics: Tykes tumble and jump while adults connect with other families. Snacks provided. River Arts, Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. $510. Info, 888-1261.

Library & B ks

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

May’s Music & Movement: Kiddos and their caregivers don their dancing shoes for a turn on the floor. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Ongoing Events

BIRDS OF VERMONT MUSEUM

Info, 434-2167

The Delight of Decoys: Museumgoers view a showcase of carved birds. There’s one for every year the museum has been open.

ECHO LAKE AQUARIUM AND SCIENCE CENTER

Info, 864-1848

Race: Are We So Different?: Visitors explore an exhibit confronting the history, science and lived experience of race and racism in the United States. See how political, social and economic factors influenced the racial climate of our country and region.

FAIRBANKS MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM

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.

Movin’ & Groovin’ With Christine: Tots let loose to the rhythms of rock and world music. Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

NOOK Kids APPtivity: Tots tap tablets, playing, creating and learning using store-provided NOOK devices and kid-friendly apps. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001. Preschool Music With Raphael: Little ones dance and sing to guitar tunes. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

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

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

Nature & Science

Programs for Preschoolers: Farm activities wow little learners with themed stories, hands-on activities and a special visit to the barn. Ages 3 and up. Preregister. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 9-10:30 a.m. $3-5. Info, 457-4663.

4 THURSDAY Arts

Art Explorers: A story, music and movement augment creation stations that include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture and printmaking activities. Children may be dropped o or parents may stay. Ages 3-5. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 3-4:30 p.m. $10 drop-in. Info, 802 457-3500.

FORT TICONDEROGA

Info, 518-585-2821

Fort Ticonderoga: This historic relic and site of bloody military battles for control of important trade routes boasts nearly 2000 acres of land to explore and constantly changing exhibits.

NEW ENGLAND MAPLE MUSEUM

Info, 483-9414

Maple-Candy Making: Sugar lovers sample the final product of the crystallization of Vermont sap.

Fall Celebration: Maple takes a new twist as museum exhibits turn into a colorful autumn array demonstrating the Vermont tradition of scaring o “evil,” spirits.

SAM MAZZA’S FARM MARKET

Info, 655-3440 Sam Mazza’s Corn Maze: Get lost — or not — in this three-mile-long corn maze. Find all 12 maze stations and enter to win a grand-prize drawing. All ages.

Mom’s Matinee: Parents and their wee ones catch a flick with dimmed lights and baby-friendly volumes. Palace 9, South Burlington, 10:30 a.m. $67.50; free for kids under 2. Info, 864-5610.

Pollywog Drop-In Art: Tots get their art fix with a variety of craft materials, from homemade play dough to colorful ribbons. Ages 6 months-5 years accompanied by adult. Burlington City Arts, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $5-6 per child/parent pair. Info, 865-7166.

Baby & Maternity

Breast-Feeding Support Group: Lactating moms bring their babies and share stories, advice and company. Preregister. Family Birthing Center, Northwest Medical Center, St. Albans, 10 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 524-7970.

Chiropractic & Nutritional Support During Pregnancy: A local doctor discusses the nutritional and physiological changes brought about by maternity, as well as the benefits of chiropractic care. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 5:306:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-2569, ext.1.

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

Middlebury La Leche League: Breast-feeding moms and kids gather for fun and conversation. Expectant mothers welcome, too. Junebug Mother and Child, Middlebury, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 382-1589.

Co unity

Polar Express Ticket Lottery: See October 2.

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

SHELBURNE FARMS

Info, 985-8686

Shelburne Story Walk: Bookworms read pages posted along the trail to Lone Tree Hill. All ages.

SHELBURNE MUSEUM

Info, 985-3346

Art Activities at Shelburne Museum: Kids explore museum exhibits and regular art activities, including self-portraits and hands-on “Art on the Go” carts.

Time Machines: A historical look at space travel, robots and rockets inspires visitors to consider the promises of science and how imaginations are captured by big ideas.

UNIVERSITY MALL

Info, 863-1066

Halloween Costume Recycling: Good-hearted ghouls and goblins drop o new or used Halloween costumes and supplies at the customer service desk. Dress-up duds will be donated to area children in need.

Killington Hay Festival: A fiveweek festival celebrates Vermont’s harvest season with a collection of more than 30 giant hay animals on display throughout town. Other fun includes a scavenger hunt, photo contest, restaurant week and a 5K run/walk.

VARIOUS LOCATIONS STATEWIDE

Apples to iPods: Specially marked wooden apples are hiding in 19 of Vermont’s pick-your-own apple orchards across the state. Find one of these unique “iPod apples,” while out picking, and you’ll win an Apple iPod or iPad.

VERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE NATURE CENTER

Info, 359-5000

Through the Eyes of Raptors: Kids explore the natural world from the perspective of these e cient predators. Bird programs cover the mechanics of flight, seasonal migration and conservation issues. All ages.

Raptors Up Close: Little nature lovers discover the fascinating lives of birds in this exhibit featuring touchable artifacts and hands-on materials. Kids learn how birds are rehabilitated and the fundamentals of raptor training. All ages.

4 THURSDAY, P. 30

4 THuRsdAY (continued)

sukkah Party: Families celebrate the Jewish festival with soup and a bounce house, crafts and live entertainment. All ages. Chabad Jewish Community Center, Burlington, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 658-7612.

Education

Hunter Education: See October 2.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: deli monte cristo: Breakfast and lunch collide as kids learn to make this crossover sandwich featuring an egg-and-cream batter and a ham, turkey and cheese stuffing. All ages accompanied by an adult. Preregister. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.

Health & Fitness

Hot mama Workout: Kids are welcome, while moms squeeze in some fitness. City Hall Gymnasium, St. Albans, 9-10 a.m. $10, or free with preregistration. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.

Classes

champ’s monster Trackers camp: Schedule: October 19, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Aftercare available until 5 p.m. Cost: $55 ECHO members; $60 nonmembers. Location: ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center. Contact info: 864-1848, echovermont.org/camps.

Description: Have you ever seen Champ? Bigfoot? First through fifth graders explore the world of hidden animals though science and myth at ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center during October’s in-service day. Participants will leave with their own monster claws/mask.

Beginner Piano Lessons: Schedule: Call for details. Cost: $25 for a half hour or $40 for a full hour. Contact info: Randal Pierce, 999-1594 or randal.pierce@gmail.com.

Description: Children will be able to learn piano on a Steinway Grand in a beautiful Victorian house in downtown Burlington. Students can learn to read music, compose and improvise at the piano at a steady but flexible pace.

Postnatal Yoga: Sore shoulders and backs feel some stretch, and abdominal muscles get a tone-up in a class designed for moms and their precrawling kids. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 1:30 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

Winooski Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment gives tumblers a chance to burn off some energy. Ages birth to 7. YMCA, Winooski, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $5-8 per family. Info, 862-9622.

Library & Books

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

Food for Thought: Teen volunteers chow down on pizza and work on library projects. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, first Thursday of every month, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Hand in Hand: This kid-initiated volunteer group creates “birthday boxes” for local food pantries. School-age children. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097. Highgate Youth Advisory: Kids in grades 5 to 8

Going the Distance in Disguise

Worried about the sugar your family’s destined to ingest this Halloween? burn off some extra calories in the AuTumN oNioN cosTumE RAcE costume-clad runners dash through downtown Montpelier on a mostly flat, stroller-friendly 5K course that’s welcoming to runners of all ages and abilities. onion river Sports events director Matt Williams says runner families often coordinate their outfits; Mom and dad might go as farmers, while the kids dress as baby animals, for example. Prizes go to the best dressed, as well as the fastest runners, so break out your Speedy Gonzalez, Flash Gordon and road runner outfits.

AuTumN oNioN 5K cosTumE RAcE: Sunday, October 28, Onion River Sports, Montpelier, 8:30 a.m., race-day registration in the Onion River parking lot; race, 10 a.m., Montpelier. $15. Info, 229-9409, onionriver.com, runreg.com.

plan projects with the Crossroads after-school program. Highgate Public Library, 3-4:45 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Homeschoolers’ Book Group: Out-of-classroom learners gather for talks on a variety of books. Regular attendance required. Preregister. Ages 10-14. St. Albans Free Library, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

PJ story Hour: Don your pajamas for tales, songs and a craft. Ages birth-6. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Read for the Record: Bookworms young and old attempt to break a world record by reading Ladybug Girl and the Bug Squad at home and in communities around the globe. Ages 3-7. More information at readfortherecord.com. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

Read for the Record: See above listing. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111. 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.

Education

Foodways Fridays: Children and adults use heirloom vegetables in historic recipes prepared in the Billings farmhouse kitchen. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, $3-12; free for kids under 3 and for members. Info, 457-2355.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3. Burlington Family Gym: Indoor playground equipment provides active fun for kids and their parents. Ages 7 and under. YMCA, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.noon. $5-8 per family. Info, 862-8993.

Friday Games Night: Action lovers get into games involving Nerf balls, pool noodles and more. Preregister. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. $12. Info, 864-0123.

Kids open Gymnastics: See October 3. Toddler Yoga & stories: Simple stretching and stories for mini yogis. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

cVsc Learn to skate Program: Schedule: Saturdays 9 a.m.-10 a.m., six-week sessions. Session 1: September 15; Session 2: October

27. Cost/Description: Ages 3-adult, new and advanced skaters welcomed! Snow Plow Sam: $50 per session; Basic Eight, Hockey, Adult, and Free Skate: $90 per session. Location: Gutterson Field House, UVM. Contact info: cvsc_us@yahoo.com 309-0419 or visit champlainvalleyskatingclub.org .

The Parent operative: Schedule: Six-week series with dates starting September 20, November 8 and January 10. Thursdays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: $280. Location: 34 Patchen Road, South Burlington. Contact info: Heather Lynch, MA, associatesinpsychotherapy.net, 658-4208. Description: The Parent Operative is a psychologist-facilitated support and educational group for parents and caregivers of all kinds. The objective is to create a supportive environment to reduce stress and increase confidence when parenting a spirited child.

FRIDAY Arts

5

Library & Books

Family clay drop-in: Parents join kids for some work on the wheel. All ages. Burlington City Arts, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $5-6 includes one glazed/fired piece; $5 per additional piece. Info, 865-7166.

itty Bitty Pumpkin decorating: Kids pick a good gourd to decorate during this session of free play. Ages 3-5 Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $25. Info, 316-1510.

Preschool clay drop-in: Fledgling potters craft cool stuff using the wheel or working by hand. Preschool ages. Burlington City Arts, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $6. Info, 865-7166.

Community

Baked Beads clearance sale: Fashionistas browse jewelry, scarves, hair accessories and more at a sale under the tent on Route 100. A portion of the proceeds benefits Irene recovery efforts. Baked Beads, Waitsfield, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission. Info, 496-2440.

First Friday Family dance: Supper kicks off a wholesome evening of live music and dancing. All ages. Worcester Town Hall, first Friday of every month, 5:30-10 p.m. $5-12. Info, 229-0173.

Polar Express Ticket Lottery: See October 2. 8 a.m.

After-school movie: Film buffs put up their feet and watch a flick, popcorn in hand. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665. songs & stories With matthew: An adventurestory-telling musician shares songs with kids. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

6 SATURDAY Arts

Fall Foliage Art in the Park: Artisans from around Vermont gather to show their works during a festival that also includes live music, activities for children and food. All ages. Chaffee Art Center, Rutland, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info, 775-0356.

Kids craft: Creative children fashion a flying creature out of glitter and glue. Ages 5-15. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646. mixed media drop-in: Kid-creators craft boats, prints, masks, cards and clay projects in a hands-on session. All ages. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $12.

Nutcracker Auditions: Aspiring performers try out for the VBTS’s performance of this Christmas classic. Ages 6 and up. Vermont Ballet Theatre School Shop, Essex, 1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-2941.

Ruckus: A cirque spectacular: Trapeze artists, jugglers and contortionists present high-flying, vaudeville-inspired entertainment. Barre Opera House, 3 & 7 p.m. $12-25; free for kids under 2. Info, 476-8188.

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

Saturday Youth Art Studio Drop-In: Paint, draw, sculpt and more in the studio classroom with provided materials. Parents may stay or drop kids o . Ages 6-12. Burlington City Arts, 1-3 p.m. $9-10. Info, 860-7474.

Co unity

Baked Beads Clearance Sale: See October 5. Oct. 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Burlington YMCA Open House: Families observe classes, jump into open swim and check out the progams available. YMCA, Burlington, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 862-9622.

Fairs & Festivals

Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In: Two dozen giant gourds vie for the heavyweight title. The fun also includes hay rides and pick-your-own adventures. All ages. Sam Mazza’s Farm Market, Colchester, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 655-3440.

Harvest Weekend: Celebrate the seasonal bounty with a husking bee and barn dance, and help with cider pressing, harvesting root vegetables, putting food by and more. Spiced cider and homemade doughnuts are free for the noshing. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $3-12; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

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Butter Making: Children churn up golden goodness. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 11:30 a.m. $5-8; free for kids under 3. Info, 985-8686.

Health & Fitne

Enosburg Tumble Time: Children burn o some extra energy with play time in the gym. Ages birth6. Enosburg Elementary School, Enosburg Falls, first Saturday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Quick Start Tennis: Parents and kids use scaleddown rackets, nets and equipment for immediate success their first time on the court. Preregister. Leddy Park/Paquette Arena, Burlington, 9-9:45 & 10-10:45 a.m. $10. Info, 864-0123.

Walk for Farm Animals: Green Mountain Animal Defenders march goats down the outdoor pedestrian mall, raising awareness for the cause against abuse and neglect. Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1102.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & B ks

Pierson Library Book Sale: Families find thousands of gently used books for kids of all ages. Shelburne Town Center Gym, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Info, 985-5124.

Russian Story Time: Children find new friends while listening to stories and songs presented in a new language. English speakers welcome. Age birth-5. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

‘Star Wars’ Reads: Local Star Wars bu Aaron Masi celebrates Star Wars Reads Day with Jedi fans of all ages. After the read-aloud, choose a Lucas-themed book from the library’s large collection. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

‘Star Wars’ Reads Day: Jedi fans celebrate the mind-trick of reading with themed crafts, giveaways and ra es, as well as appearances by costumed characters. All ages. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 448-3350.

StoryWalk Festival: Readers walk through the park, perusing eight posted stories. Other activities include book signing, entertainment and food.

All ages. Hubbard Park, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

Nature & Science

Dead Creek Wildlife Day: Nature loves grab their binoculars to view the diverse wildlife through guided walks, exhibits, nature arts and crafts, and family-fun activities. Ages 3-18. Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area, Addison, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 241-3700.

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

Fossils: Science enthusiasts handle preserved remains and use clues to guess their origins. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Hawk Walk: Late-migrating raptors provide interest on a leisurely bird walk. Bring your binoculars. Ages 8 and up. Preregister. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5-8; free for kids under 3. Info, 985-8686.

Sundays for Fledglings: Kids hike, create, carve, act, write and investigate the lives of birds, their habitats and their neighbors. Intended for kids in grades 1-4, but all are welcome. Preregister. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-3 p.m. Free with regular admission. $3-6. Info, 434-2167.

7 SUNDAY

Arts

Fall Foliage Art in the Park: See October 6.

Co unity

Baked Beads Clearance Sale: See October 5.

Fairs & Festivals

19th-Century Apple & Harvest Festival: Attendees find old-school fall fun in making cider with an antique press, tasting heirloom apple varieties and playing period games. All ages. Justin Morrill Homestead, Stra ord Village, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $3-8. Info, 765-4484.

City Market Harvest Celebration: Foodies get a taste of fall from locally produced foods, including wood-fired pizza, fresh bread, cheesecake and cookies. All ages. City Market, Burlington, noon4 p.m. Free. Info, 861-9700.

Giant Pumpkin Regatta & Festival: Gutted giant pumpkins are gently lowered into Lake Champlain and raced to benefit the PILOT youth leadership program. Festival fun includes vendors serving fall food favorites, a Vermont craft “patch,” kids’ activities and contests. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 951-8845.

Harvest Weekend: See October 6.

Pumpkin Festival: Wagon rides, music, theater, games and crafts entertain families in fall style. There’s also a pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Cedar Circle Farm, East Thetford, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $5 per car. Info, 257-0544.

Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival: This gourdthrowing contest is back for a fourth year to benefit the Lamoille Family Center and Cambridge Rotary. Enjoy fall foods, a corn maze, volleyball and croquet while watching the fierce competition. All ages. Boyden Family Farm, Cambridge, noon. $3-5; $5 to chuck. Info, 644-6363.

Health & Fitne

Basketball Clinics: The St. Michael’s College women’s basketball program instructs girls in grades 6-12 during this series of skills, covering o ense, defense, rebounding, position play and special situations. Preregister. St. Michael’s College, Colchester, 9 a.m.-noon. $25. Info, 654-2503.

136 Locust Street Burlington, VT 862-6696

www.cksvt.org

osteel@cksvt.org

facebook.com/cksvt

Christ the King School

3 years old to 8th Grade

We are proud of our Faith Filled Environment & Academic Excellence

Art Music PE French Technology Licensed After-School Program Athletic & Enrichment Opportunities

EARLY EDUCATION OPEN HOUSE

Thursday, November 15th at 8:30am

For learners entering Pre-school(3yo program)-Kindergarten for the 2013-2014 academic year. Please visit our website and click on “Admissions” for more information. k8v-ChristKing1012.indd 1

WaitsfieldPTA

Story Times

MONDAY

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

Colchester Preschool Story

Time: Burnham Memorial Library, Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

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

Fairfax Story Hour: Fairfax Community Library. Info, 849-2420.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: Buttered Noodles, 1010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

TUESDAY

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

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

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

Colchester Toddler Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, October 2, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.

Early-literacy skills get special attention during these free readaloud 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.

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

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

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

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

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

Huntington Story Time in the Nestlings Nook: Birds of Vermont Museum, second Tuesday of every month, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free-$6. Info, 434-2167.

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

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

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

Williston Reading With Frosty & Friends: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

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

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

Winooski Story Time: Winooski Memorial Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-6424.

WEDNESDAY

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

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

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

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

Warren Preschool Story and 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.

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

THURSDAY

Bristol Preschool Story Time: Lawrence Memorial Library, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.

Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Monday.

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

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

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

Middlebury Early-Literacy Story Time: Ilsley Public Library, 10:3011:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

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

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

St. Albans Story Time: See Monday.

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

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

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

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

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

South Burlington Story Time Adventures: South Burlington Community Library, first Friday of every month, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

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

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

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

SATURDAY

SPONSORED BY:

Nov. 10-11 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Waitsfield Elementary School

Find new and used winter gear for skiers and riders of all ages.

Consignment drop-off Nov. 9th, 4-7pm.

Waitsfield Elementary School Route 100, Waitsfield, VT

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Pre-register at W.E.S. starting Oct. 29th.

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

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

Essex Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, Wednesdays, 1010:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

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

Essex Toddler Story Time: Brownell Library, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Fairfax Preschool Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, 9:3010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

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

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday. 11:15 a.m.

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

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

Shelburne Story Time With Webby: Shelburne Museum, 10:3011 a.m. Free-$20. Info, 985-3346.

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

South Burlington Story Time: Barnes & Noble, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.

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

Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.

FRIDAY

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

Essex Drop-In Story Time: Brownell Library, Every other Friday, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

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.

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

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

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Milton Therapy Dog Story Time: Milton Public Library, first Saturday of every month, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

South Burlington Saturday Story

Time: See Wednesday. 11 a.m.

South Burlington SecondSaturday Stories: South Burlington Community Library, second Saturday of every month, 10:15 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 652-7080.

SUNDAY

Fairfax Story Hour: See Monday.

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5. Postnatal Yoga: See October 4, 12:15 p.m.

Library & B ks

David Shannon at Flying Pig: See spotlight, pg. 34. Pierson Library Book Bargain Day: Penny-pinchers take advantage of low prices on terrific tomes. Shelburne Town Center Gym, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Info, 985-5124.

Nature & Science

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

Kitchen Chemistry: Kids explore scientific reactions with household products. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

8 MONDAY

Arts

Imagination Studio: Kids apply their minds to creative projects with supplied tools and materials. Ages 5 and up. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: Moms-in-the-making give their full attention to relaxation and strength building. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7 p.m. $15. Info, 778-0300.

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

Health & Fitne

Hot Mama Workout: See October 4.

Library & B ks

Mother Goose Cares About the Early Years: Childcare providers learn the skills needed to introduce language and literacy to infants and toddlers through books and other early-learning materials. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

9 TUESDAY

Kids Eat Free at Boloco: See October 2. Kids in the Kitchen: Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup: Homemade soup insulates against the fall chill as kids grill sandwiches for dunking. All ages accompanied by an adult. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.

Health & Fitne

Family Archery: See October 2.

Library & B ks

Creative Tuesdays: See October 2.

Duct Tape Parenting Signing: Parenting on Track creator Vicki Hoefle signs copies of her new book, which takes a less-is-more approach to raising resilient kids. Flying Pig Children’s Books, Shelburne, 7 p.m. Free. Info, parentingontrack.com.

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

Nature & Science

Science & Stories: Harvest Time: Bye-bye summer. Kids explore the bounty of fall. Ages 3-5. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

10 WEDNESDAY

Arts

Art for Tots: See October 3. Readers Theatre Rehearsals: See October 3.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington La Leche League: Moms bring their questions, babies and older kids, too, to this

breast-feeding support group. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-8228.

Co unity

Georgia Family Game Night: Candy Land, checkers and Monopoly bring gamers to the library. Visitors are welcome to carry in other favorites, too. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

Education

Admissions 101: An independent educational consultant discusses college-search questions, such as what admissions committees are looking for and financial-aid queries. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Social Thinking: See October 3.

F d

Cookie Decorating: See October 3.

Health & Fitne

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3. Tiny Tot Sports: Parents and kids compete in high-energy games using pool noodles, balls and parachutes. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, $25. Info, 864-0123.

Intimate, comfortable and confident. The Copley Birthing Center gives our moms and babies the kind of care that only a small, family oriented facility can offer. From our homey décor of cozy quilts and soothing earth tones to the comfy, hand-made knitted caps we give to each new arrival, our family of doctors, nurses and midwives provide our moms and newborns with a very personal level of support, both physically and emotionally.

Go Jangles

caldecott honoree daVid shaNNoN has landed a new book. Jangles: A Big Fish Story is the tale of the biggest fish in big Lake, so named because it trails fishing hooks and lures that jangle as it swims. the big trout nets a young fisherman, taking him on a wild ride to the bottom of lake. the books’ hyperbole and humor — and stunning oil-painting illustrations — make it a fish fable that’ll hook parents, too. the Los Angeles author and illustrator reads and signs his books, including those from his popular No, David! series.

daVid shaNNoN: Sunday, October 7, Flying Pig Bookstore, Shelburne, noon. Free. Preregister. Info, 985-3999, flyingpigbooks.com.

WIC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

10 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)

Library & B ks

LEGO Afternoons: See October 3.

May’s Music & Movement: See October 3.

Movin’ & Groovin’ With Christine: See October 3.

NOOK Kids APPtivity: See October 3.

Preschool Music With Raphael: See October 3.

A Top Secret Program: Undercover agents work together to complete a mission before time runs out. Ages 8 and up. South Burlington Community Library, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Youth Media Lab: See October 3.

Nature & Science

Programs for Preschoolers: See October 3.

11 THURSDAY

Arts

Art Explorers: See October 4.

Mom’s Matinee: See October 4.

Open Mic Night: Local talents strut their musical stu in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. Ages teen to adult. ArtisTree Gallery, Woodstock, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, 457-3500.

Pollywog Drop-In Art: See October 4.

Education

VINS Homeschooling Series: Educators foster kids’ curiousities in hands-on programs about streams, fields, forests and animals. Separate sessions for grades 1-3 and 4-6. Preregister. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 10-11:30 a.m. $10-12. Info, 359-5000, ext 223.

Health & Fitne

Hot Mama Workout: See October 4.

Raising Healthy Kids Naturally: Parents hear from a local chiropractor about raising kids without antibiotics or other medications, as well as avoiding ADD, ADHD and ear infections. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 12:15-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & B ks

Book to Film Discussion: Teens read Peter Benchley’s Jaws, then watch the movie at the library, discussing both formats over pizza. Books available at the library. Ages 12 and up. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Hand in Hand: See October 4.

Highgate Youth Advisory: See October 4. LEGO Club: Building-block lovers of all ages get busy with the library’s sets of Duplos, Quatros and Legos. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

VolunTeens: Young adults plan events for the library. Grades 7-12. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

FRIDAY

Arts

Family Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Preschool Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Teen Movie: Young adults watch Snow White and the Huntsman, an action-adventure epic starring Charlize Theron, Kristen Stewart and Chris Hemsworth. PG-13. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Info, 878-6956.

Tibetan Sand Art: Participants welcome the Dalai Lama to Middlebury by creating Rangoli-style artwork with local artist Joy Danila on the library steps. All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4907.

Education

Homeschool Project Day: Kids learning at home present projects they’re working on. Milton Public Library, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. F d

School Lunch for Dinner: The Burlington School Food Project shows o tasty, cafeteria-style culinary creations. After dinner, see a food movie: What’s On Your Plate? Burlington High School, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Donations. Info, 861-9757.

Health & Fitne

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Toddler Yoga & Stories: See October 5.

Library & B ks

After-School Movie: See October 5.

Nature & Science

Evening Wagon Ride: Riders dressed for the weather enjoy hot cider on a horse-drawn, halfhour trip around the farm. Shelburne Farms, 6, 6:35 & 7:10 p.m. $7-15; free for kids under 3. Info, 985-8686.

Let’s Talk About Race: Story Hour: Literature and personal stories engage kids and their caregivers in conversations about race and racism in the United States. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

13 SATURDAY

Arts

Fall Craft Fair: More than 40 artisans and crafters display and sell their products just in time for the holidays. University Mall, South Burlington, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1066, ext. 11.

Kids Craft: Kids make bitty-boo baskets for use in tricking and treating. Ages 5 to 15. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646.

Major Mess: Young artists explore holiday-themed projects with mixed media. All ages. Children under 4 must be accompanied by an adult. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $10. Info, 457-3500.

Mixed Media Drop-In: See October 6.

Perler Bead Craft: Children fuse colorful creations with supplied beads and boards. Ages 6 and up. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Saturday Drama Club: See October 6.

Snoozapalooza: Dr. Seuss’ Sleep Book inspires a story session for kids who arrive equipped with blankets, pillows, stu ed animals and bedtime attire. Ages 3-10. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

Co unity

Family Ghost Walk: Fright fans travel to Battery Park and the Champlain Train Station for a “twisted history walk” with haunting tales. Ages 5 and up. Downtown Burlington, 2-4 p.m. $15. Info, 316-1510.

Get Creative

You’re hosting a birthday party, but you only have sunglasses, a bucket, string and some candy to work with. What do you do? At CREATIVITY DAY, participants tackle this and other tasks designed to encourage thinking outside the box. The event is an introduction to Destination ImagiNation, a nonprofit that organizes problem-solving tournaments, including a statewide competition in March. Pasquale DiLego, who helps organize local DI groups, says Creativity Day is not only fun; it’s good practice for real-life challenges.

CREATIVITY DAY: Saturday, October 13, Burlington High School, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8436, vtdi.org.

Education

Creativity Day: See spotlight, pg. 36. The Ethan and Ira Challenge: Kids step into the shoes of 18th-century Vermonters during a historical scavenger hunt, learning about outdoor survival, gardening, military life and more. All ages. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Burlington, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $3-5. Info, 865-4556.

Fairs & Festivals

Cabot Apple Pie Festival: Pies vie for the sweet spot in a festival that also includes games, ra es and crafts. School-age chefs compete in the junior division. Cabot School, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 563-2526.

Fall Festival: Celebrate 25 years at the museum with live birds, music, crafts, face painting and wood carving. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $2; free for kids 3 and under. Info, 434-2167.

Wagon-Ride Weekend: Relax with the family during narrated wagon rides around Billings’ fields during the height of fall foliage, and don’t miss the farm’s other programs and activities. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $3-12; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

F d

Butter Making: See October 6.

Health & Fitne

Franklin Tumble Time: Gym time provides an opportunity to run, jump and play. Ages birth-6. Franklin Central School, second Saturday of every month, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Just Move It: Families get a move on, trying activities to help alleviate arthritis symtoms and promote good health while raising awareness about the disease. Preregister online or on site at 9 a.m. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 877-324-1848.

Kids Night Out: Small ones make a splash at swimming and movie activities with groups for tots ages 1 to 4 and older children ages 5 to 12. Preregister. YMCA, Burlington, 5:30-8 p.m. $8-16. Info, 862-9622.

Onion River 8K Trail Race: Run through the fields and forests of Montpelier includes a kids loop, prizes and ra e. Register at runreg.com or at 8 a.m. race day. Proceeds benefit the North Branch Nature Center. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 9:30 a.m. $5-15. Info, 229-9409.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & B ks

Highgate PJ Story Time: Children get ready for bed with crafts and a sleep-inducing story at the library. Ages birth-6. Highgate Public Library, 6 & 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Nature & Science

Autumn Night Sky: Nature shows o in front of folks watching from blankets. Bring your own binoculars; marshmallows provided. Preregister. Hubbardton Battlefield State Historic Site, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 273-2282.

Bird-Monitoring Walk: Birders bring binoculars for a walk on museum property. Best for adults and older kids with some experience. Preregister. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 8-10 a.m. Free (donations welcome). Info, 434-2167.

Creeping Colors: This science-packed session teaches kids about capillary action as they watch water crawl up paper and find hidden colors inside a marker. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Family Spider Safari: Amazing arachnids inspire kids to look closely at live specimens and craft their own 3D models and webs. Ages 3 and up. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10 a.m.-noon. $10-12 per adult-child pair; $4-5 per additional child. Info, 434-3068.

Fossils: See October 6.

Sundays for Fledglings: See October 6.

14 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

International Cesarean Awareness Network Meeting: Expectant parents, care providers, doulas and educators attend a session o ering information about various types of birth and recovery. Eastern View Integrative Medicine, South Burlington, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 644-6700.

Fairs & Festivals

Charlotte Tractor Parade: Spectators see hundreds of farm machines roll by and have fun with a pieeating contest, craft fair, live music and children’s activities. All ages. Corner of Spear Street and Hinesburg road, Charlotte, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 425-4444.

Wagon-Ride Weekend: See October 13. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Health & Fitne

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5. YoGirl: Yoga for Girls: Girls learn about themselves through movement, games and crafts. Ages 7-11. Preregister. Chabad Jewish Community Center, Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon, $10. Info, 318-3598.

Nature & Science

Mirror, Mirror: Little ones use looking glasses to investigate reflection and symmetry. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Parachutes: Curious kids make their own ’chutes to test air resistance. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Terrific Tractors: Future farmers climb aboard a variety of big machines that help get the job done. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $5-8, free for members and kids under 3. Info, 985-0327.

COURTESY OF CHRIS MCKINLEY

13 SATURDAY (CONTINUED)

15 MONDAY

Arts

imagination studio: See October 8.

Baby & Maternity

Breast-Feeding class: Expectant mothers learn the basics for successful nursing. Participants receive additional support postpartum. Preregister. Franklin County Home Health Agency, St. Albans, 7-9 p.m. $15. Info, 527-7531.

montpelier Prenatal yoga: See October 8.

yoga after Baby: See October 8.

Education

Early Literacy Workshop: Parents of preschoolers learn ways to encourage young readers. Refreshments, childcare and a free book provided. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Health & Fitness

hot mama Workout: See October 4.

my First yoga: See October 8.

Library & Books

mother Goose cares about the Early years: See October 8.

Nature & Science

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

16 TUESDAY

Education

Babysitters for hire: Sitters advertise their skills and parents talk to attendees to find help. For sitters ages 10-15. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. $10 for sitters; free for parents. Info, 316-1510.

Food

Kids Eat Free at Boloco: See October 2.

Library & Books

creative Tuesdays: See October 2.

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

Nature & Science

science & stories: Pumpkins: Did you plant a pumpkin in your garden last spring? What happened after you planted the seed? Explore the life cycle of a pumpkin and “make” one to take home. Ages 3-5. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

17 WEDNESDAY

Arts

art for Tots: See October 3. readers Theatre rehearsals: See October 3.

Education

social Thinking: See October 3.

Food

cookie decorating: See October 3.

Health & Fitness

afternoon hoops: See October 3. Growing mindful, a Journey for young People: Students develop an awareness of their surroundings and learn the difference between an automatic reaction and a mindful response through interactive games. First session for Kindergarten-grade 3, second session for grades 4-6. Preregister. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:15 & 4:30-5:15 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Kids open Gymnastics: See October 3. Tiny Tot sports: See October 10.

Library & Books

LEGo afternoons: See October 3. may’s music & movement: See October 3. movin’ & Groovin’ With christine: See October 3.

NooK Kids aPPtivity: See October 3. Pajama story Time: Kids dress in their bedtime best to hear stories over cookies and milk. All ages. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-7576.

Preschool music With raphael: See October 3. youth media Lab: See October 3.

Nature & Science

Programs for Preschoolers: See October 3.

18 THURSDAY Arts

art Explorers: See October 4. Little chefs cooking class: Kid chefs toss together a pizza and bake cookies. Ages 3-5. Miller Community Recreation Center, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. $24. Info, 316-1510.

mom’s matinee: See October 4. Pollywog drop-in art: See October 4.

Community

Empty Bowl dinner: Community members help support at-risk and homeless teens by enjoying soup served in a handmade ceramic bowl — a keepsake of the evening. All ages. Elley-Long Music Center, Colchester, 5:30 p.m. $20-50. Info, 864-7423, ext. 330.

Food

Flatbreads from around the World: Kids explore the world through cooking, making Mexican tortillas, Middle Eastern pita bread and Indian chapatis. Ages 8 and up. Preregister. McClure Multigenerational Center, Burlington, 5-6:30 p.m. $5-10. Info, 861-9700.

Health & Fitness

hot mama Workout: See October 4.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & Books

hand in hand: See October 4.

highgate youth advisory: See October 4.

OCT CALENDAR

18 THURSDAY (CONTINUED)

LEGO Club: See October 11. Middle School Book to Film: Little literati read Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz and then watch the movie at the library, snacks included. Grades 6-8. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Shelburne Magic Club: See October 4, 6-8 p.m. Young Writers Club: Budding scribes work on exercises and prompts designed to ignite a creative spark. Grades 5 and up. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.

Nature & Science

Bat House Workshop: Build a home for winged night-flyers to be painted and used later. Ages 12 and up. Preregister. Milton Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Playgroups

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

Isle La Motte Playgroup: Isle La Motte School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

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

Montgomery Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, second Monday, Wednesday of every month, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

Swanton Playgroup: Mary S. Babcock School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

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

TUESDAY

Bristol Playgroup: Bristol Baptist Church, 9:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.

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

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

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

Colchester Playgroup: See Monday.

Essex BBF Playgroup: Essex Junction Recreation and Parks Department, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 872-9580.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday.

19 FRIDAY Arts

Family Clay Drop-In: See October 5. Movie Matinee: Kids take in a PG-rated Halloween-themed movie from the ’80s. Popcorn and drinks provided. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Preschool Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Co unity

The Haunted Forest: Ghostly guides lead visitors along a jack-o’-lantern-lined path into the magic of a nighttime forest filled with creepy characters. Best for ages 8 and up. Matinee performances o er a less scary option. Catamount Outdoor Family Center, Williston, 7, 8, 9 & 10 p.m. $12.50 evening, $8.50 matinee. Info, 238-0923.

Health & Fitne

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3. Burlington Family Gym: See October 5. Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Toddler Yoga & Stories: See October 5.

Library & B ks

After-School Movie: See October 5. Jiggity Jog: Kids let music move them via song, instrument and dance. Ages 2-6. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Songs & Stories With Matthew: See October 5.

Teddy Bear Sleepover: Stu ed animals spend the night at the library. Kids drop o their furry friends before 5 p.m., then return for breakfast and pictures showing the evening’s adventure at 10 a.m. on October 20. Ages 2 and up. Preregister. Milton Public Library, Free. Info, 893-4644.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

St. Albans Playgroup: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

WEDNESDAY

Barre Open Gym: See Monday.

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

Essex Open Gym: See Monday

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

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

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

Morrisville Open Gym: River Arts, October 24, 10-11:30 a.m. $5 child, $3 additional child. Info, 888-1261.

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

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

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

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

St. Albans Music & Movement: St. Albans Free Library, 10:15-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

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

THURSDAY

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

Bolton Playgroup: Smilie Memorial School, Oct. 4, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.

Burlington Family Play: See Tuesday.

Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga, second Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m.-noon, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 864-9642.

Essex BBF Playgroup: See Tuesday.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday.

Fletcher Tumble Time: Fletcher Elementary School. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Fletcher Playgroup: Fletcher Elementary School, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Milton Playgroup: See Tuesday.

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

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

Shelburne Infant & Toddler Playgroups: See Tuesday.

Williston Music With Raphael: See Monday. 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

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

FRIDAY

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

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.

Nature & Science

Let’s Talk About Race: Story Hour: See October 12.

20 SATURDAY

Arts

Kids Craft: Halloween fans create a glittery, painted wooden pumpkin. Ages 5-15. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646.

Mixed Media Drop-In: See October 6.

Saturday Drama Club: See October 6.

Saturday Youth Art Studio Drop-In: See October 6.

Essex Open Gym: See Monday.

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

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

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

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

St. Albans MOPS: Church of the Rock, first Friday of every month, 8:45-11 a.m. Free. Info, 891-1230.

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

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

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

SATURDAY

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

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.

A Symphony of Whales: Kids VT partners with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra to present a familyfriendly, interactive concert where musicians bring a story to life through onstage narration coupled with musical accompaniment of spooky selections. Kids in costume show o in a dress-up parade. All ages. McCarthy Arts Center, Colchester, 11 a.m. $5-7; $15 family pass. Info, 985-5482.

Co unity

Fancy Nancy Party: Kids don suits and party dresses for a fashionable a air with books, games, photo opportunities and prizes. A free ticket is required; visit umallvt.com for full details. South Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. $3 donation per child benefits the Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care. Info, 863-1066, ext. 11.

The Haunted Forest: See October 19. 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10 p.m.

Education

Pumpkin & Pirates: Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate provides entertainment as kids paint pumpkins and search for buried treasure among the jack-o’-lanterns in the nursery. Gardener’s Supply, Williston, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 658-2433.

F d

Butter Making: See October 6.

Health & Fitne

Family Fun Night: The whole family enjoys an evening at the Y with swimming, snacks, movies and more. Swimming is from 5-6:30 p.m., and the movie starts at 6:30 p.m. All ages. YMCA, Burlington, 5-8 p.m. $3-5. Info, 862-9622.

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4. Zombie Run 5K: Undead-heads run an obstacle course, trying to beat the clock and stay ahead of the flesh-eating zombies. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $10-67. Info, 752-7670.

Nature & Science

Skulls: Science lovers explore skeletal remains of local wildlife. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Straw Rockets: Mini engineers discover the power of air during this hands-on session. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200. Sundays for Fledglings: See October 6.

21 SUNDAY Arts

A Symphony of Whales: See spotlight, pg. 40.

Treasured Stories: Eric Carle: The Mermaid Theatre Company uses blacklight puppetry to bring The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other colorful stories to life. Ages 3-7. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 3 p.m. $15-22. Info, 863-5966.

Health & Fitne

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

YoGirl: Yoga for Girls: See October 14.

Library & B ks

Book Sale: Frugal readers browse books to benefit the Winooski Memorial Library. Tomes cost between $.25 and $1, or $2 per bagful, and include many children’s titles. Winooski Welcome Center, 1-2 p.m. Info, 655-6424.

Nature & Science

Glaciers: Science bu s explore the properties of ice while making model glaciers. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Turtle Discovery: Young naturalists learn about shelled natives and help feed those that reside in the museum. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

22 MONDAY

Arts

Imagination Studio: See October 8.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See October 8.

Yoga After Baby: See October 8.

Health & Fitne

Hot Mama Workout: See October 4.

My First Yoga: See October 8.

23 TUESDAY

Arts

Art Safari: Tots dive into stories and art activities related to the museum’s collections. Ages 3-5 with adult. Preregister. Shelburne Museum. $5-7.50 child. Info, 985-3346.

F d

Kids Eat Free at Boloco: See October 2. Kids in the Kitchen: Cranberry Orange Muffins: Young chefs measure and mix a batch of mu ns with fresh zest and dried cranberries. All ages accompanied by an adults. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.

Library & B ks

Creative Tuesdays: See October 2.

‘Duct Tape Parenting’ Signing: Parenting on Track creator Vicki Hoefle discusses topics and signs her new book, which takes a less-is-more approach to raising resilient children. Next Chapter Bookstore, Barre, 7 p.m. Info, 476-3114.

Nature & Science

Science & Stories: Salmon Spawning: Preschoolers learn how Lake Champlain fish make a treacherous trip to release their eggs. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

24 WEDNESDAY Arts

A Symphony of Whales: The Vermont Symphony Orchestra presents an interactive, family-friendly concert where musicians bring a story to life through onstage narration coupled with musical accompaniment of spooky selections. Kids in costume show o in a dress-up parade. All ages. St. Johnsbury Academy, 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m. $5-7; $15 family pass. Info, 800-876-9293, ext. 14. Art for Tots: See October 3.

Education

Mater Christi School Open House: Prospective students and their parents get a tour of the school grounds and chat with educators. Preregister. Mater Christi School, Burlington, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 658-3992.

Social Thinking: See October 3.

Cookie Decorating: See October 3.

Health & Fitne

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Tiny Tot Sports: See October 10.

Library & B ks

LEGO Afternoons: See October 3.

May’s Music & Movement: See October 3. Movin’ & Groovin’ With Christine: See October 3.

NOOK Kids APPtivity: See October 3.

Preschool Music With Raphael: See October 3.

Tales to Tails: Beginning readers practice skills by reading to trained therapy dogs. Rutland Free Library, 4-4:45 p.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Youth Media Lab: See October 3.

Nature & Science

Programs for Preschoolers: See October 3.

25 THURSDAY

Arts

Art Explorers: See October 4.

Little Chefs Cooking Class: See October 18.

Mom’s Matinee: See October 4.

Pollywog Drop-In Art: See October 4.

Co unity

The Haunted Forest: See October 19. 7, 8 & 9 p.m.

Education

Fall Parent Open House: Parents learn about the school and its holistic approach. Free. The Bellwether School, Williston, 6 p.m. Info, 863-4839.

Fairs & Festivals

Halloween Extravaganza: Kids don costumes for a spooky celebration that includes games, snacks, crafts and trick-or-treating around the library. Ages birth-8. St. Albans Free Library, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Classical for Kids

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra uses whales, tales and costumes to connect kids to classical music in three concerts around the state. Copresented by Kids VT, the shows start with an introduction to the instruments, followed by a parade of costumed kids crossing the stage to the tune of “In the Hall of the Mountain King.” Then Swanton music teacher Melissa Ewell reads Steve Schuch’s fact-based children’s book, A SYMPHONY OF WHALES, in which 3000 belugas are stranded in a narrow channel in the Senyavina Strait of Siberia. A rescuing ice breaker arrives, but the whales won’t swim to safety without musical accompaniment. Audience members get to choose the tunes; the musicians provide the soundtrack.

SYMPHONY OF WHALES: Saturday, October 20, McCarthy Arts Center, St. Michael’s College, Colchester, 11 a.m.; Bellows Free Academy Performing Arts Center, St. Albans, 4 p.m.; Sunday, October 21, Middlebury College Mahaney Center for the Arts, Middlebury, 2 p.m. $15 family, $7 adults, $5 seniors and children. Info, 8645741, ext. 10, vso.org.

Health & Fitne

Hot Mama Workout: See October 4. Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & B ks

Hand in Hand: See October 4.

Highgate Youth Advisory: See October 4. LEGO Club: See October 11.

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

Nature & Science

Getting Ready for Winter: Find out how animals prepare for the cold and snow and whether they migrate, stay put or take a really long nap. Ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10-11 a.m. $8-10 per adult/child pair; $4 per additional child. Info, 434-3068.

26 FRIDAY

Arts

Family Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Family Movie: Families munch on free popcorn while watching The Pirates: Band of Misfits, setting sail on a voyage of hilarious swashbuckling antics. Rated PG. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Preschool Clay Drop-In: See October 5.

Co unity

The Haunted Forest: See October 19.

Pumpkin Lobotomy: Kid carvers light up the lawn with a giant jack-o’-lantern display after designing and cutting great gourds. Prizes awarded for funniest, most creative and scariest. Essex Middle School, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1342.

Health & Fitne

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

Kids Open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Toddler Yoga & Stories: See October 5.

Library & B ks

After-School Movie: See October 5.

Nature & Science

Friday Nights for Teen Tinkerers: Young adults plan and build cool creations, such as robots that draw, electronic bugs or tessellating designs. Grades 6-9. Preregistration recommended. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6:30-8 p.m. $14-16. Info, 649-2200.

Let’s Talk About Race: Story Hour: See October 12. Vermont Tech Jam: This job fair and tech expo features more than 65 innovative Vermont companies, many of them looking for employees and interns. Middle- and high-school students interested in science and technology can see robotics and appmaking presentations, and get information on local colleges and exciting careers. Ages 12 and up. Champlain Mill, Winooski, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

27 SATURDAY Arts

Kids Craft: Scarecrows come to life in the hands of little crafters. Ages 5-15. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $3. Info, 862-0646.

Mixed Media Drop-In: See October 6. Saturday Drama Club: See October 6.

Co unity

The Haunted Forest: See October 19. 11 a.m., noon, 1, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10 p.m.

Education

Color Mixing: Museum guests blend hues and observe the resulting change. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Fairs & Festivals

Church Street Trick-or-Treating: See spotlight, pg. 28.

Halloween Parade: Floats fill main street as marching bands and local dignitaries celebrate the spooky holiday. All ages. Downtown, Rutland, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Halloween Party: Costume-clad kids celebrate the spooky holiday with cookie decorating, pumpkin painting, doughnut bobbing, crafts and games. Dress as a PBS character and pose for pictures with show backgrounds. Ages birth-5. Vermont Public Television, Colchester, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $1 per child; free for caregivers. Info, 655-4800.

Halloween Tour: Kids of all ages get creeped out on a Victorian-Gothic-literature-themed tour. Noyes House Museum, Morrisville, 1-5 p.m. Donations. Info, 888-7617.

The Haunted Forest Matinee: A ghoulish guided tour entertains the youngest of the spook set. Ages 8 and under. Catamount Outdoor Family Center, Williston, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $8.50. Info, 238-0923.

Hoots and Howls: Guided tours along pumpkin-lit paths give costumed kids a spook. Then they hear stories, watch skits and see some live animals. Ages 4-17. Preregister. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 5:30-8 p.m. $6-8; free for kids 3 and under. Info, 359-5000, ext. 223.

F d

Butter Making: See October 6.

Doll & Me Masquerade Ball: Tots and their tiny, make-believe friends dress up for a fancy luncheon that includes craft projects and a ballet presentation. Benefits the Northern Vermont Ballet Company. Ages 3-12. Church of the Rock, St. Albans, noon-2 & 3-5 p.m. $18. Info, 393-8655.

Health & Fitne

Winooski Family Gym: See October 4.

Library & B ks

Fall Party: Little ones dress in costume for pumpkin painting, crafts and a visit from the Travelling Storyteller. Georgia Public Library, Fairfax, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

Halloween Party: Kids are treated to ghostly good fun, spooky stories, a costume contest and other games. All ages. Joslin Memorial Library, Waitsfield, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 496-4205.

Nature & Science

Bird-Monitoring Walk: Fans of feathers bring their own binoculars and explore museum property for avian excitement. Best for older children. Preregister. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 8-10 a.m. Free. Info, 434-2167.

Leafcutter Ants: Nature fans examine the secret life of insect fungus farmers during this hands-on investigation. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $10-12; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Sundays for Fledglings: See October 6.

Vermont Tech Jam: See October 26. 10 a.m.-3

You’re Lost… You’re Laughin’… You’re LOVIN’ it!

Admission $10 Adults • $8 Kids!

On weekends have a Hathaway Burger right in the Maze!

Open 10-5 – Closed Tuesdays • Moonlight Madness every Saturday 5-9 pm

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like you, too!) » facebook.com/kidsvt

Baby & Maternity

Newborn 101: Moms- and dads-to-be get the skinny on tiny babies and how to enjoy the first three months of parenthood. The class covers tips on setting routines, breast-feeding basics, newborn care, how to handle prolonged crying and participant questions. Preregister. Franklin County Home Health Agency, St. Albans, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $30. Info, 527-7531.

Community

The Haunted Forest: See October 19. 6, 7 & 8 p.m. Trunk or Treat: Kids in costume take a creative twist on candy gathering at a tailgate party for the whole family. Decorated trunks are ready for spooky visitors; other fun includes an inflatable obstacle course. All ages. Daybreak Community Church, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 338-9118.

Fairs & Festivals

Family Halloween: This not-so-scary celebration features doughnuts on a string, pumpkin carving, Halloween tales, wagon rides and costume parades at noon and 2 p.m. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $3-12; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Haunted Happenings: Klingons, Wookies and Cyclons provide a “Force” field of Halloween fun as kids wear science fiction-focused costumes to trick-or-treat around the museum buildings. All ages. Shelburne Museum, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 985-3346.

spooktacular: The park comes alive with costumed capers as kids gather for games, music and dancing, as well as a trick-or-treat parade along Main Street. All ages. Middlebury Green, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 377-3557.

Health & Fitness

Burlington Family Gym: See October 5.

Freaky 5K: Run for the VYcc: Runners take to the hills for a spooky 5K race through dark forests, open meadows and single-track trails. Shorter run for kids starts at 9:15 a.m. West Monitor Barn, Richmond, 9 a.m.-noon. $35. Info, 434-3969. onion 5K costume Race: See spotlight, pg. 30.

YoGirl: Yoga for Girls: See October 14.

Nature & Science

cells!: Inquisitive eyes compare plant, animal and even their own cheek cells under museum microscopes. Ages 9 and older. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200. creeping colors: See October 13.

29 MONDAY Arts

imagination studio: See October 8.

Baby & Maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See October 8. Yoga After Baby: See October 8.

Halloween stories: Book lovers dress for bed or in costume and bring a favorite stuffed friend to hear themed tales. All ages. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 355-5417.

Highgate PJ story Time: See October 13.

‘star Wars’ club: Fans of the force share their starfighter fascination with local Star Wars expert Aaron Masi. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Nature & Science

Let’s Talk About Race: story Hour: See October 12.

30 TUESDAY

Food

Kids Eat Free at Boloco: See October 2.

Kids in the Kitchen: Pumpkin-chocolate-chip cookies: Pureed pumpkins transform into decorated sweet treats in the hands of young cooksin-training. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 per child. Info, 8632569, ext. 1.

Library & Books

creative Tuesdays: See October 2.

Nature & Science

science & stories: Bats: Preschoolers learn that these night-flyers might look a little scary but they are important to have around. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. $9.50-12.50; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 877-324-6386.

31 WEDNESDAY

Arts

Art for Tots: See October 3.

Baby & Maternity

Pregnancy circle: Pregnant moms check in with open discussion, hear positive birth stories, and practice labor breathing and relaxation. A healthy snack is provided. Preregister Birth Journeys, Essex Junction, 6-7:30 p.m. $5-15 sliding scale. Info, 324-8809.

Education

social Thinking: See October 3.

Food

cookie decorating: See October 3.

Health & Fitness

Afternoon Hoops: See October 3.

Kids open Gymnastics: See October 3.

Library & Books

LEGo Afternoons: See October 3. may’s music & movement: See October 3. movin’ & Groovin’ costume Party: Tots in cute costumes join Christine as she spins seasonal discs. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Immunization. Power to Protect.

Health & Fitness

Hot mama Workout: See October 4. my First Yoga: See October 8.

Library & Books

Halloween crafts & stories: Creative activities get kids into the spirit of a spooktacular event. Ages 2-9. Highgate Public Library, 6 & 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Halloween Party: Little ghouls and bats dress up for treats at the library. Ages birth to 10. Preregister. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-7576.

NooK Kids APPtivity: See October 3. Preschool music With Raphael: See October 3. Trick or Treat at the Library: Ghosts and ghouls of all ages collect candy at the library. Highgate Public Library, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.

Youth media Lab: See October 3.

Nature & Science

Programs for Preschoolers: See October 3. K

27 sATuRdAY (cOntinued)

“July was the first time we advertised in Kids VT and our sales increased 87 percent. We weren’t doing any additional advertising at the time, so we knew it was a direct result of our ad. There was an almost immediate response. You could really tell that foot traffic had improved.”

Amanda Cashin MARKETING DIRECTOR, NEW BALANCE WILLISTON

smallpeople, big ideas!

Fall Festivities

Photographer Matthew Thorsen photographed the fun at last month’s Harvest Fest at Shelburne Farms. Many kids visited the KidsVT booth for face-painting by Sean Avram from Hyper Focus Art and families enjoyed fresh corn, candy apples and other fall food as well as the hay-bale maze, live music, performances and hands-on activities.

Are you a friend yet? Check out the more photos on our Facebook page.

Cabbage-Juice Chemistry

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LEAVE your kids’ science education up to their teachers or after-school-program leaders. There are lots of fun experiments you can do at home to encourage them to develop their skills. This project, for example, uses cabbage juice to teach kids about chemical reactions; we use it as a lesson about acids and bases at the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich.

Cabbage juice is an indicator of pH, and it will reveal whether a chemical is an acid or a base. Cabbage juice turns pink when you add an acid, such as vinegar. It turns blue, or even green, when you add a base, such as baking soda. A chemical reaction occurs when an acid and a base are mixed together.

Don’t worry, the actual chemistry isn’t that important to explain. The most valuable part of this activity is being able to experiment and see the results. Making and recording observations and putting

Materials

• half of a red cabbage

• knife

• pot

• boiling water

• empty ice-cube tray or two cups or bowls

• turkey baster, eye-dropper or spoon

• vinegar

• baking soda

items into di erent categories — pink or blue — are key scientific skills.

Rather than tell the kids what results to expect, ask them at each step to explain what they think will happen. Use simple questions and prompts, such as: “What do you think? Let’s try. What do you notice? Show me. Can we do that again?” They’ll enjoy the process — and that’s the point.

— AMY VANDERKOOI, Science Educator/Program Manager Montshire Museum of Science

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage juice: Chop the cabbage into a few pieces. Pour boiling water on the chopped leaves and let steep for 15 minutes or so, then pour off the purple liquid. The liquid is what you need for the experiment.

2. Use a turkey baster to fill a couple of wells of the ice-cube tray about halfway with cabbage juice. You can use bowls or cups instead, but the ice-cube tray will allow you to do a bunch of different experiments side by side.

3. Add a splash of vinegar to one of the wells that has cabbage juice in it. What happens?

4. Add a little baking soda to another of the wells. What happens?

5. Try more experiments: Pour cabbage juice into another empty well and add vinegar and baking soda. Do you observe anything happening besides a color change? Can you make the cabbage juice turn purple again? Can you turn the blue cabbage juice pink?

Taking it further:

Test different items from the fridge and pantry, such as juices, dishwashing soap, milk, baking powder and soda. Keep a list of what you test and your results.

Looking for more activities like this one? Check out pbskids.org/zoom/activities/sci/.

•

•

• Wooden

BY ANA RUESINK

In the Burlington backyard of the Bailly-Hall family, “play structure” takes on a whole new meaning. This whimsical, wooden creation is a castle, swing set and outdoor theater — all in one. Jacques Bailly built it for his daughter Isidora, 10, and 8-yearold son, J.P.

On Friday nights from mud season until the snow flies, Bailly and his wife, Leslyn Hall host lively outdoor gatherings for neighbors and friends. The adults sip wine while their kids swing, scramble up and down the castle towers and act out fantasies involving artisan guilds and epic battles. On special occasions, the swings give way to a wooden stage and heavy quilted curtain. Most recently, Isidora’s Brownie troop performed a Greek comedy in pursuit of their theater badges. Jacques designed the structure based on a tower he admired at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. He wanted to inspire his kids’ imagination and also get the wiggles out. Bravo!

• Backstage sandbox

• Rubber tire mulch under the swings saves knees from scraping

• Sink in the south tower, acquired at auction, great for preshow picnic hand-washing

Celebrate your Birthday at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory!

®

• A private tour

✱ CONTEST Book Review

•

Parties available seven days a week!

The Vermont Teddy Bear Company 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT (802) 985-1627 • birthdayparties@vtbear.com

Open House

e separate full-day or half-day pre-school and pre-k classes beginning at age 3 e test scores consistently well above national averages e high school preparatory classes beginning in fifth grade e kindergarten through grade 8 French e early care and afterschool enrichment program

Visit us to tour classrooms, meet teachers, and discover the opportunities for your child.

©Ambient Photography

k6h-MaterChristi1012.indd 1 9/27/12 1:34 PM

Name Age Town Email Phone

Feel

COLORING CONTEST!

Send us your work of art by October 15 for an opportunity to win $25, sponsored by TD Bank

Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8, and (3) ages 9-12. The best artwork will be featured on kidsvt.com, and winners will be named in the November issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

Puzzles4Kids

Riddle

Look

BY HELENA HOVANEC

Sponsored by

Winners get gift certificates to Spare Time in Colchester, one of Vermont’s premier bowling centers.

To

Nick lives in Colchester and turns 9 in October. He loves to swim.

He wins a

gift certificate to Spare Time.

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

Sophie, Amelia and Elizabeth win $10 gift certificates to Spare Time.

AMELIA lives in Shelburne and turns 10 in October. She loves to read, sing and play piano and softball. ELIZABETH lives in Shelburne and turns 6 in October. Elizabeth loves T-ball, drawing and hanging out with her big brother.