Kids VT, November 2014

WHAT DO YOU WANT?

ON THE COVER

Students at Burlington’s Integrated Arts Academy hammed it up for photographer-dad Sam Simon in a juice-box-fueled, after-school shoot. We asked the kids — Rhiannon Landry, Leo Buffington, Westin and Harper Bunce, Jasper Cleary, Mila Buffington, Kiernan Hackney, Juni Cleary and Cal Simon — what

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

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

Copublisher Colby Roberts colby@kidsvt.com ext. 77

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

Lead Designer Brooke Bousquet brooke@kidsvt.com ext. 41

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

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

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

P.O. Box 1184 Burlington, VT 05402

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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.

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Copy Editors Paula Routly Courtney Copp

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Contributing Writers: Angela Arsenault, Thea Lewis, Mary Ann Lickteig, Ken Picard, Erinn Simon, Elaine Young

Photographers: Matt Thorsen, Sam Simon

Illustrators: Ian Webb

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To help him see hope, we looked at care through a child’s eyes.

A Gift to Remember

THE MOST MEMORABLE Christmas

present I ever received was the dollhouse I got when I was 5. It was 3 feet tall and 4 feet across — huge, but made from wood that was almost as thin and flimsy as cardboard. “It was a piece of crap,” my mom confided recently.

Still, I had so much fun with it. My mom and I picked up wallpaper and carpet sample books at the hardware store, cut out the small scraps inside and glued them to the walls and floors. I made tiny curtains to adorn the dollhouse windows and arranged miniature furniture.

Unlike other gifts I received — the moon shoes I begged for, the green glitter eyeshadow, countless stu ed animals that I quickly abandoned — the dollhouse captured my interest and held it. I was in middle school before I stopped redecorating and rearranging the furniture in its rooms.

What I loved more than anything else about that dollhouse was its broken chimney. When I discovered the gift on Christmas morning, it was accompanied by a handwritten apology from Santa Claus. The dollhouse was so big, he explained, that he had accidentally dropped it on the roof of our house.

I had heard the thud the night before. The letter confirmed the noise really had been Santa.

Beloved gifts often come with a backstory or an extra, personalized touch, something local toy- and booksellers confirmed in our annual holiday gift guide [“That’s a Wrap,” p. 18].

Y VACATION CAMPS

• Y Camps run during Nov. Dec. Feb. and April School Breaks

• On site at Schools in Chittenden, Franklin, Washington counties

• For kids in kindergarten through 12 years

• 7:30-6:00pm; $38 day

reserve your spot today!

gbymca.org 862-YMCA (9622)

Financial assistance is available.

— Tom Wilson, actor/writer/comedian

This month’s “Art Of” on designing homemade cards [p. 17] also encourages creative flourishes. As Annemarie Buckley, owner of Scout’s Honor Paper, points out, personalized notes “show the recipient that you spent time thinking about them and that you care.”

As we head into the holiday season, the pressure’s on to just buy stu and dole it out. We hope this issue inspires you to be more discriminating, and remember what Mom always said: It’s the thought that counts.

MEGAN JAMES, MANAGING EDITOR

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

Mary Ann Lickteig (“Fit Families”) of Burlington left daily journalism to be a full-time mom. Four kids later, she misses the relative calm of a newsroom.

Angela Arsenault (“Use Your Words”) is a freelance writer who lives in Williston with her husband, 6-year-old daughter and 4-year-old son. Her next essay will likely be about learning how to roast a turkey.

Timberlane Dental Group was founded in 1973 to provide comprehensive dental care extending throughout a patient’s life—from the first infant oral exam through adulthood. Today, 40-plus years later, we’re as happy as ever to be caring for Vermonters.

5-year-old Megan’s dollhouse looked a lot like this one.

“A smile is happiness you’ll find right under your nose.”

YOu DON’T HAVe TO TrAVel FAr FOr ADVeNTure!

ReadersRespond

We’re Ja in’

Have you seen the Adams-Kollitzs’ incredible sculptural woodpile on Burlington’s Pine Street? Many of our readers have; nearly 500 of them “liked” our story about it on kidsvt.com.

Fabulous Firewood

[Re: “Habitat,” October 2014]: I pass it every day on my way home from work to Hinesburg. I’ve always wondered who lived inside. Makes me smile every time I pass. Love the creativity!

CALEN KING

Crazy for Coding

[Re: Trailblazing Teachers Bring Computer Programming into the Classroom,” October 2014]: Our class is hopefully heading up to Burlington for the UVM Computer Science Fair in December because I have a couple of kids who are starting to realize that they might just be good at computing!

WHITNEY MACHNIK

Machnik’s Montpelier High School computer science class was featured in the story.

GOT A COMMENT? Email us at feedback@kidsvt.com.

More than 500 students visited the 8th annual Vermont Tech Jam at Burlington’s Memorial Auditorium in October. They tried out Google Glass, tinkered with virtual robots, played Pac-Man with their feet and showed off their 3-D printed creations. Find more info and links to other techie events at techjamvt.com.

Wi You Go Out With Me?

BY ANGELA ARSENAULT

My husband and I have decided to start dating again.

We’ve been married for nine years and together for 13. Our daughter, Lionelle, was born in 2008, and our son, Dashiell, followed in 2010. We’ve now been married with kids twice as long as we were married without kids. And it shows.

Our daily life and conversations revolve around our children. Who’s bringing them to school? What time does she need to be picked up? Even a seemingly general,

non-kid-specific question like, “What should we have for dinner?” inevitably turns into a conversation about which veggies our kids have eaten this week and how much cinnamon toast is too much.

What we’re not talking about is how work’s been or what books we’re reading or ... whatever else couples talk about when they don’t have kids.

Can we keep our relationship healthy if it remains on the periphery of our child-centered world? The answer, I fear, is no. I finally understand that if we’re not paying attention to the relationship that started it all, we’re doing it wrong…

The post was a big hit on the Kids VT Facebook page. Here’s some of what readers had to say:

One of the biggest mistakes couples make is to stop dating. Every couple needs a scheduled date night. It reestablishes that connection and gives you both something to look forward to. Date night shows the value you feel towards one another, encourages growth and keeps relationships healthy.

JENNIFER ROBERSON

Brilliant! I can’t wait to read more! NICCI MICCO

PHOTOS BY: MATTHEW THORSEN

This is the first post in Arsenault’s new series chronicling the good, the bad and the ugly of date night.

Read more at kidsvt.com.

Angela Arsenault and Ryan Miller

Bestofthe Kids VTBlog

On the Fly: Bumps in the Road

BY JESSICA LARA TICKTIN

Kids VT contributor Jessica Lara Ticktin is traveling the world with her family, homeschooling three daughters along the way — while pregnant. She’s documenting her family’s adventures until they return to Vermont in December.

We spent our last night in Japan in an emergency room.

One of my biggest fears leading up to this trip was that one of us would get injured or sick and end up at the mercy of foreign doctors, hoping to communicate and get the care we need. However, when I imagined this scenario, it was always one of my children hurt or sick, and me crazy with worry.

Gaming for Good

BY MEGAN JAMES

On October 25, thousands of people around the country participated in a fundraiser called Extra Life, a 24-hour video-gaming marathon to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Local gamers raised $15,705 for University of Vermont Children’s Hospital.

A substantial portion of that money came from 8-year-old Noah Cohen.

Home Cookin’: Coconut-Squash Soup

BY ERINN SIMON

Makes enough for 5 or 6 people.

INGREDIENTS:

1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1- to 2-inch chunks

1 medium yellow onion, chopped

1 tsp red curry paste (more if your family likes spice!)

2 tsp kosher salt

2 Tbsp coconut oil

12 oz coconut water — or enough to cover the squash and onions in the pot (I use Goya Coconut Water with Pulp.)

2/3 cup heavy cream

1 tsp curry powder Black pepper to taste

We had just finished our last evening meal in Japan and were heading back to the ryokan, or inn, where we were staying before leaving for China in the morning. Walking through the neighborhood — a touristy but beautiful area built into the hills with shrines and winding streets filled with art galleries and restaurants — I noticed a lovely alleyway lit by the Japanese lanterns. When I saw a chance to cross over the main road, I did something I don’t normally do…

COLORING CONTEST

Hot diggity dog! We received 156 coloring contest entries in October, each more creative than the last. We loved how 11-year-old Rebecca Moriarty added whiskers and feline eyes to transform the Halloween hound into a cat. Ten-year-old Garrett Ward’s Superman pup was doggone heroic. And we were delighted to receive an entry from a 35-year-old, with the title, “Moms like to color, too!” Good on you, mama. And congratulations to all the winners!

HONORABLE MENTIONS

AMAZING TECHNICOLOR

Django B. Matchstick, 4, Montpelier

The winners of our three $25 gift certificates to Creative Habitat are:

Sullie Martaniuk, 5 COLCHESTER “Scary Pupp”

The St. George resident raised more than $4,000.

Cohen has a special relationship with the hospital. Born with a rare variety of congenital anomalies, he has undergone 23 surgeries and seen more than a dozen specialists there. His mom, Amy Cohen, has always encouraged Noah to put his medical challenges in perspective…

DIRECTIONS:

Heat the coconut oil in a large dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat for a few minutes. When it’s hot, add the chopped squash and onion and cook, stirring often for 4 to 5 minutes, until everything is coated in oil and the onion is starting to turn translucent.

Add the coconut water until it covers the veggies. Cover the pot, reduce heat to medium low and simmer for about 30 minutes until the squash is very tender. You should be able to easily break the pieces apart with a wooden spoon.

Add the salt and curry powder.

Remove from the heat. Now it’s time to puree! Use an immersion blender right in the pot, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender or food processor.

When it’s smooth, add the cream and blend a bit more. Add some black pepper to taste.

BEAUTIFUL BATS

Emma McDonald, 10, Colchester

SUPERB STRIPES

Aiyana Auer, 8, St. Albans

CREATIVE COLOR COMBOS

Jaci Lucas, 6, Williston

JACK-O’-LANTERN EYES

Julia Cisz, 5, Waterbury

CUTEST COLLAR

Evelyn Trojbom, 9, Barre

GREAT GRAVE

Scarlett Whipkey, 7, South Burlington

PERFECT PLAID

Skye Fitzhugh, 11, Jericho

PARTY ANIMAL

Sage King, 5, Cabot

TERRIFIC TRANSFORMATION

Rebecca Moriarty, 11, Jericho

SUNSET SUPERHERO

Garrett Ward, 10, North Hero

FLOWERY FASHION

Fiona McCormick, 5, Hinesburg

TOP TITLES

“NOT EVIL, WICKED”

Nora Adele Englisch, 10, Williston

“WITCH DOG-TOR!”

Keagan Rossi, 7, Berlin

“WOOFER”

Molly Mannarino, 2, Essex Junction

Jacques LaCourciere, 8 ESSEX “Comic Dog”

Antonio Socinski, 11 NORTH FERRISBURGH “Bootiful”

Find this month’s coloring contest on page 50. The deadline for submissions is November 15.

Read more at kidsvt.com.

THE BEAT

BY MEGAN JAMES

MUSIC Barn Dance

MR. WOODHEAD’S PARTY IN THE ANIMAL BARN : Available for $15 at Shelburne Farms, Apple Mountain in Burlington, the Old Brick

TECHNOLOGY

The Future of History

Much has been written about Vermont’s rich collection of historic buildings, but often that information is hard to find — or doesn’t exist — online. A new contest aims to change that. The 3D VERMONT: TOWN HISTORY IN 3D COMPETITION seeks to populate Google Earth with historic data collected by Vermont high school students.

The competition challenges teams of students to create 3D models of their towns’ notable buildings using the free software SketchUp. In the process, they’ll research and document the stories of these local landmarks, which they’ll present in a multimedia showcase at the contest’s culminating event next March. Organizers are calling it “the high school Olympiad of architectural history in Vermont.” There, the student-made models will be 3D-printed and a xed to a giant map of the state. Participants’ creations will be judged on architectural and historical accuracy; the winning teams will get Nexus tablets for their school.

The competition is organized by a coalition of partners including the State of Vermont, the Preservation Trust of Vermont, Google and Hartford High School, where teacher Mike Hathorn has been using SketchUp and 3D printing to teach his history class. Hathorn’s students have already mapped a number of historic buildings in White River Junction.

“3D printing has been a critical tool in the classroom,” said Hathorn in a press release. “It’s a hands-on method for teaching history to a technologically minded generation. It’s mentally and technically challenging, and above all, it’s fun.”

Vermont performer Woody Keppel knows how to make people laugh. The founder of Burlington’s annual Festival of Fools began his career in 1981, playing silent comic roles with the Opera Company of Boston. A decade ago, he made a comic kids’ movie, Woodhead Saves the Farm, in which a bumbling farmhand makes a mess of Shelburne Farms right before a public appearance by Senator Patrick Leahy. Now Keppel has released a related CD of his silly songs, MR. WOODHEAD’S PARTY IN THE ANIMAL BARN, featuring local musicians, including Gordon Stone and Dave Grippo. “It’s pop music, and it’s really danceable,” says Keppel. The eclectic mix includes tunes such as the Caribbean-inflected “Get Happy” and “When an Elephant Has to Sneeze,” which uses a trombone to capture the pachyderm’s lumbering sound. “The disc is in heavy rotation here at our house,” says Kids VT contributor Erik Esckilsen. “And the music is good.”

Store in Charlotte and mrwoodhead.com.

maTerniTy Can Doula

Research has shown that women who give birth with help from a doula — a support person trained in labor and delivery — experience fewer medical interventions and shorter labors. But hiring a doula can cost several hundred dollars, and most insurance companies don’t cover the cost. Enter Handle WiTH loVe, Francesca Arnoldy’s new scholarship fund. “I believe all women deserve access to that kind of birth experience,” says Arnoldy. The Hinesburg doula has partnered with the nonprofit Mama Says to raise money for Vermont families wishing to hire a doula; they granted the first scholarship last month. Want to support the effort?

Purchase Arnoldy’s adorable bibs, onesies, tote bags and other products, designed and screen printed by New Duds of Winooski. A portion of the purchase price goes to the fund.

Handle WiTH loVe: Need-based scholarships of up to $500 are available. For more information, visit handlewithlovevt.com or stop by Arnoldy’s booth at the Fletcher Allen Health Care vendor fair on November 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A portion of sales from Bluebird Barbecue Community Night on November 12 will benefit the fund.

Theatre on Ice

IT’S EARLY. So early that the moon’s still bright and stars twinkle over Leddy Park Arena in Burlington. The 10 skaters of Vermont Children’s Theatre on Ice have just arrived to learn routines and drill jumps, turns and spins. And, on this October morning, practice the twist.

“It’s not wagging your tail,” says co-coach Martha Harding, a 40-year veteran skating coach decked out in a stadium coat, fleece headband and knit gloves. “It’s shoulders against hips, so your hands move opposite your feet.” She shimmies while she talks.

Troupe members — nine girls and one boy, ages 9 to 19 — are working on their choreographic exercise, the two-and-a-halfminute program they will take to the National Theatre on Ice Competition in Massachusetts next June. It requires them to tell a story without speaking — and without the help of costumes, makeup or props. They’ll get to use those last three things in their 5-minute program, known as the free skate.

These skaters are dedicated. In addition to this once-a-week hourlong practice at 5:50 a.m., they commit to weekly lessons and practicing on their own. Their hard work has paid o . The troupe won first place at nationals in 2006 and third place last year. In 2010 the kids traveled to France to compete against teams from other countries in the invitation-only Nations Cup.

Pretty impressive for a small state, which happens to be the birthplace of Theatre on Ice in the United States. VCTI, started in 1996, is the oldest troupe of its kind in the nation. Founder Nancy Fillebrown is still the team’s other co-coach.

Theatre on Ice is a team sport that combines skating, drama and dance. It sprouted from a Project Harmony exchange that brought Russian ballet on ice performers to Vermont in 1991.

Vermont skaters visited the same troupe in Moscow 10 months later, brought the theatrical style home and introduced it to U.S. Figure Skating, the sport’s national governing body.

The season’s young; join the team!

Contact team manager Sharron Scott at srs01240@yahoo.com. Not sure your child is ready? Check out SK8 Across the Stage, VCTI’s feeder program for ages 5 to 18. Find more info at enjoyburlington.com and champlain valleyskatingclub.org, 865-7558.

Showtime

VCTI and other local skaters perform at Burlington’s Leddy Park in:

“The Gift,” Leddy Park Arena’s holiday show, December 13, 2 p.m. Theatre on Ice Festival, March 28-29, “Magical Mystery Tour,” May 9, 3 p.m.

USFS now sanctions and governs Theatre on Ice competitions, which have grown in popularity and include adult and child divisions. Six teams participated in the nation’s first competition at the University of Vermont

in 1996; 65 teams competed at nationals last year in Michigan.

The team aspect is a big part of the appeal. Figure skating is a very individual sport — kind of lonely, Harding says. With increasing pressure to land jumps and perfect spins, skaters tend to lose interest and drop out as they get older. Theatrical skating keeps them involved.

“There’s a place for everyone in Theatre on Ice,” says VCTI team manager Sharron Scott. “You don’t have to be the best jumper; you don’t have to be the best spinner … You can have a child that lights up the arena with their smile … and that makes a huge di erence.”

Any skater who’s at least 7 years old and can pass USFS’s most basic test, called “prepreliminary moves in the field,” can join VCTI. Skaters may participate until age 25, as long as they’re in school. VCTI features a wide range of ages and abilities, and no one is the star — highlighting a single skater is discouraged.

Twelve-year-old Sofia Anderson Harrington of Burlington joined VCTI this year. “It’s like Sofia got nine big siblings, so it’s really wonderful,” says her mom, Susan Harrington.

Practices start so early because kids have the fewest conflicts during that time, Fillebrown says. Evan Marnell, 14, and Lindsey Kalamasz, 15, get up at 4 a.m. on practice days. He lives in Fairfax; she’s nearby in Essex, but likes to have time to get ready before leaving the house at 5:15.

By 6:28, some of the parents have gone out for co ee while the kids practice. “All right, go to the beginning again,” Harding says. Skaters break into three groups and crouch down on the ice. Their program song, “Monster Mash,” starts to play, beginning, “I was working in the lab, late one night … ”

Group by group, the skaters rise. Blades scrape the ice and ponytails fly, all before most kids have even rolled out of bed.

PHOTOS: MATTHEW THORSEN

what's causing the increased prevalence of peanut allergies ?

IT’S nEArly ImPoSSIblE to enter a school or daycare center these days without seeing a sign that reads, “This is a peanut-free environment.” Those signs were far less common when today’s parents were kids. This month, Kids VT asked Dr. Lewis First, head of pediatrics at University of Vermont Children’s Hospital, why everyone’s suddenly so nuts about food allergies.

KIDS VT: Are childhood peanut allergies on the rise?

LEWIS FIRST: Yes. The prevalence of food allergies among children increased 18 percent between 1997 and 2007. The annual incidence of someone developing a peanut allergy went from about 0.4 percent in 2000 to 1.4 percent today.

KVT: Do we know why?

LF: There are many plausible theories but, unfortunately, there’s still very little scientific evidence to confirm any of them. The first involves hygiene. Our immune systems get stronger by being exposed to lots of things. But Western society has done so much to essentially sterilize our environment that our bodies have nothing to react to. Before, our bodies combated life-threatening infections. Now our bodies are turning against some foods.

KVT: Could genetically engineered food be a factor?

LF: Yes. Another theory holds that the genetic changes made to our food are altering how our bodies respond to food, resulting in inflammation.

KVT: Any more theories?

LF: Other studies suggest that people with low vitamin D levels are three times as likely to develop a food allergy. This may be because kids are spending less time in the sun, or possibly because they’re eating foods lower in vitamin D content.

KVT: Could vaccines be a cause?

LF: There’s a faction that believes that the adjuvant chemicals used in vaccines contain microscopic amounts of peanut oil. If you graph the frequency of vaccinations to the increased incidence of peanut allergies, you could say, “Uh, oh!” However, all the vaccine manufacturers insist, as does the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, that there is no peanut oil extract in any childhood-vaccine adjuvants.

Got questions for the doctor?

send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.

KVT: Can parents do anything to prevent a peanut allergy?

LF: Our approach to protecting children has changed. In the early 2000s, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended not introducing milk products until kids are a year old, and peanuts and shellfish until they’re 3. Later studies showed no evidence that delaying an allergic food group was beneficial, so the AAP retracted its position in 2008. Other studies have shown that if you introduce an allergic food when your child is 4 to 6 months old, you may actually decrease his or her chances of developing a food allergy. However, if you introduce those foods before 4 months, you run an increased risk.

KVT: Why?

LF: While the immune system is still “in training,” it learns to recognize potential allergens as friends, not enemies.

KVT: How should parents introduce foods that could cause an allergic reaction?

LF: Introduce one new food at home and have an antihistamine available, in case your child has difficulty breathing in an allergic reaction. If your child has not had a problem after two or three days, you can give her more of that food. I would introduce no more than one new food every three to five days to ensure there’s not going to be a reaction.

KVT: Any exceptions?

LF: If there’s a family history of a food allergy, it’s better to have your infant tested at about six months to make sure they’re not at risk.

✱ DIGITAL DILEMMAS

BY ELAINE YOUNG

MANAGING EMAIL — a tough task to begin with — gets even more complicated when your child comes home from school with a Gmail account.

Many Vermont schools use Google Apps for Education, a free suite of communication and software tools. It’s a great option for educators, allowing easy access to word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, calendars and email. Students use these applications to keep tabs on class work, collaborate on documents and communicate with peers and teachers.

But don’t assume that your daughter will learn all she needs to know about using email at school. The day she gets her first email account, sit down with her to discuss how to write an email. This mode of communication is more formal than Facebook or texting; careful spelling is important.

And make sure she understands what is and isn’t appropriate to send over email. Explain the di erence between a message that relays helpful information, or asks good questions about homework, and one that might upset a friend, such as a chain email.

Show her the di erence between the “to,” “cc” and “bcc” fields. When sending an email to many people, it’s a good idea to put everyone’s addresses in the bcc field so they remain private. Talk with

her about the important distinction between “reply” and “reply all.”

Show her how to delete messages and make sure she knows about spam — where it might come from (signing up for websites) and how to recognize it. If the words “free,” “meet” or “earn money” are in the subject line of an email, for example, it might be spam.

Google Apps for Education has built-in protections to keep your daughter from seeing content you don’t want her to see. Still, remind her not to give her email address to just anyone.

As with any technology, watch how your daughter manages it, and don’t be afraid to step in if necessary. Finally, ask your daughter’s school about training sessions for children and parents.

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

My daughter just got a Gmail account through her school. How do I teach her the etiquette of communicating over email?

Private party space staffed by a Vermont Teddy Bear Ambassador.

Readers’ Picks

In anticipation of holiday gift giving, Kids VT asked parents and educators to identify the best children’s books they’ve read this year.

One

BY KATHRYN OTOSHI

Age 3+

Book-Review Winners

Congratulations to these enthusiastic young critics who shared their reading recommendations with us in October. Each wins a $25 gift certificate to Crow Bookshop in Burlington. We loved reading about all the entrants’ favorite books and have included some excerpts below.

Lucas Cannizzaro, 5

Red likes to pick on Blue. The other colors know that’s wrong, but they’re afraid to speak up. Luckily, a character named One helps the colors work together to solve their problem. This seemingly simple book about primary and secondary colors, numbers and counting teaches kids to accept each other’s di erences.

Lisa Aschbacher reads this book aloud to preschoolers in her arts-based literacy classes. An educator for VSA Vermont, which supports Vermonters with developmental disabilities, she says it helps them understand how words and actions can hurt or heal. After reading, she prompts rich discussion by posing questions such as, “What makes us feel happy and important?” and “What makes us feel lonely and unimportant?” This book, Aschbacher explains, “should be read by young and old for the very basic and important lesson that it illustrates: Sometimes, it just takes one.”

Little Red Bird

BY NICK BRUEL

Little Red Bird is happy in her cage but curious to see what’s beyond it. When the door is left open, she flies out to explore the larger world. Will she return to her home or keep her newfound freedom?

ESSEX JUNCTION recommends:

Magic Tree House: Ghost Town at Sundown by Mary

Pope Osborne

“I liked it when Jack and Annie were in the ghost town and met Lonesome Luke — a ghost who plays the piano.”

Alan Moody, 9

CABOT recommends:

The Return of Zita the Spacegirl by

Ben Hatke

“My favorite part is when Zita meets a skeleton who tries to convince her to try escaping again. The skeleton has keys, drills and saws as toes. He o ers them to her but she says no. This part was really funny.”

Rosie Perkinson, 8

NORTH FERRISBURGH recommends:

Ages 3-6

Masterpiece

BY ELISE BROACH

The Higher Power of Lucky by Susan

Patron

Ages 8-12

the

Bristol resident Michelle Steele, mom to Matthew, 4, and Sam, 6 months, says she loves the story because of its wonderful rhymes, colorful illustrations and, especially, its ambiguous ending. “Just when you wonder what the message of the book is going to be and what the bird will choose, it ends with the words, ‘I wonder, what would YOU do?’” she explains. “The end is open, which is so rare in children’s books, where authors so often feel the need to preach the ‘right’ answer to readers.”

“This book is about a girl named Lucky whose mother has died. She has a guardian named Brigitte and she lives in Hard Pan, California (population 43). My favorite part was when Lucky decided to run away.”

An unlikely friendship develops between an 11-year-old boy, James, and Marvin, a beetle who lives under his sink, in this story, which Publisher’s Weekly named as one of the best children’s books of 2008. When James is recruited to create a fake masterpiece for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in order to catch a thief, he relies on Marvin to help pull o the plan.

Emily Hunt, 10

WASHINGTON recommends:

Summer Pony by Jean

Slaughter Doty

“My favorite part was when Ginny really wanted to keep her pony and her parents said it was a lot of work. Then the man who Ginny rented it from had to sell all of his ponies, so for a surprise, Ginny’s parents bought the pony for her.”

as plot

Burlington dad Patrick Henry calls the book “a wonderful mystery full of twists and turns.” He read it on his own prior to reading it with his kids, Thomas, 12, and Kate, 11. “I braced myself for their shrieks as each plot twist unveiled itself,” he says. “My children did not disappoint me. At one point, they jumped up o the bed and screamed, ‘No!’ in surprise.”

Next month’s contest has an exciting new format. Find the December/January book-inspired writing prompt on page 45. The deadline is November 15. Happy reading … and writing!

THE LEARNING CENTER AT

FALL SWEET POTATO FRIES WITH ZESTY DIPPING SAUCE

For Zesty Dipping Sauce:

Directions:

crème fraîche

1 package Vermont Creamery créme fraiche

1 small bunch chives; minced

1 tsp ground cumin

1 Tbsp honey (local is best!)

Squeeze of lemon juice

In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and reserve.

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

3 large sweet potatoes

1 Tbsp cornstarch

Salt and pepper; as desired

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

Preheat oven to 435 degrees. Cut potatoes in French fry-shaped pieces and place in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with 1 Tbsp corn starch and salt and pepper as desired. Pour fries onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread into a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes, flip fries, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Serve with dipping sauce.

Don’t forget to order your Thankgiving turkeys, pies, and sides by 11/21!

All classes require pre-registration. For a full schedule, or to register, go to healthylivingmarket.com; or call Customer Service at 802.863.2569.

Giving Thanks for Homemade Stuffing

This monTh, Burlington Children’s Space will hold its 6th annual Thanksgiving Family Dinner. My favorite school tradition, it’s come to define the holiday season for me.

Each year on the Thursday before Thanksgiving, BCS director Sarah Adams-Kollitz and I are in the kitchen by 7 a.m. We have a huge job: Cooking a full meal for 150 children, parents, extended family members, alumni and community partners. We roast three enormous turkeys, prep tons of veggies, warm studentbaked rolls and, most impressively in my opinion, make homemade stuffing.

We have help. Teachers drop by the kitchen during breaks between classes to help chop and prep. As the afternoon rolls on, parents and friends show up to mash potatoes, set tables and carve the birds.

It’s a lot of work, but it’s such a joyful community effort that the whole day — not just the dinner that night — feels like a party.

Still, when Sarah proposed that we make the stuffing from scratch the first year, it made me a little nervous. I don’t cook Thanksgiving dinner for my brood; my mom’s generation still has that duty. And though my family is full of good cooks with signature Thanksgiving dishes, we don’t have a go-to recipe for

stuffing. Actually, it always comes from — gasp — a box.

But Sarah insisted it was pretty easy. For advice, she called her mom, who reminded Sarah of her mom’s recipe,

Thanksgiving stuffing — burlington children’s space style

This is the basic BCS recipe, with a few twists, scaled down to serve 8.

ingredienTs

1 stick of butter, plus more for the pan and the top of the stuffing

2 cups finely chopped onion

2 cups finely chopped celery

1 Tbsp minced fresh sage

1 Tbsp minced fresh thyme (To substitute dried herbs, use an extra teaspoon of each.)

3 cups turkey, chicken or veggie broth

2 eggs

16 cups cubed, day-old, or even a-few-days-old, bread

Salt and pepper to taste

direcTions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. melt the stick of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, sage and thyme. Add some salt and pepper and cook for 5 minutes or so, until the veggies soften up.

Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.

beat the eggs in a large bowl, then add in the cubed bread and the vegetable-broth mixture. Toss until well combined.

Transfer the whole thing to a buttered 13-by-9-inch baking

which involved bread that’s at least a day old and lots — lots — of butter. We recreated that recipe.

It turns out that making delicious homemade stuffing for a crowd is no big

dish and scatter three or four pats of butter over the top. cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

remove the foil and continue baking until the top is golden brown and you have some crispy crunchy bits, probably about 30 minutes more.

Here are a few variations:

roasTed

VegeTables: Dice 8 cups of your favorite winter veggies (squash, carrots, parsnips, potatoes, sweet potatoes, red onion, etc.) and roast at 400 degrees until they’re nice and golden, about 25 minutes. use the veggies in place of half of the cubed bread in the original recipe.

deal. And if you’re in the mood for something unconventional, endless variations are possible. Pro tip: It’s much easier to get creative when you’re cooking for just one family. K

Kale and Parmesan: Add four cups chopped kale (tough stems removed) when you pour the broth into the onion and celery; simmer. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of

grated Parmesan cheese over the dish when you remove the foil.

sourdough: use cubed, stale sourdough bread.

Sarah Adams-Kollitz with Burlington Children’s Space kids.

The finished dish! So much better than boxed stuffing! Cooking down the onions.

CHAPIN SPENCER BURLINGTON

DIRECTOR, BURLINGTON PUBLIC WORKS

Daughter Zia, 3

We took my daughter, Zia, ice skating on Lake Champlain. It wasn’t exactly in the snow, but we did trek through snow to get there. We brought a sled with us, and when she got tired, she would climb onto it. Her grandfather, who was there with us, got the idea of skating around in a circle and swinging the sled — with her on it — around him. He spun her around and around. She got a real hoot out of that. It was wonderful to see her skating on such a great big lake, and watching her eyes open wide when she stared through the ice to see the plants and fish at the bottom.

EMMET HELRICH BURLINGTON

COORDINATOR, RAPID INTERVENTION COMMUNITY COURT

Sons Luke, 36, Emmet, 33 and Jack, 5

We like to go to the golf course with our dog, William. He’s a good runner; he jumps in and out of the snow like a dolphin does in the ocean. Trudging through the snow is tougher for a little kid, but my son Jack just loves getting bundled up and going out in his showshoes.

There’s a little island of grass between our house and our neighbor’s. Last winter, I was shoveling the driveway and began mounding snow over there, all around Jack. It was deliciously fun to watch his face while I buried him up to his waist in that pile of snow. He loved it!

MIKE CZARNY WILLISTON MORNING RADIO HOST, STAR 92.9

Son Ethan, 12

Ethan has always loved the snow. He likes snowboarding, and the two of us have built snow forts and gone sledding.

I can picture this day when he was about 3 or 4 years old: Snow had piled up on our cars, and he came outside with me to be “Dad’s little helper” getting the snow off his mom’s car. He had on a little blue jacket and a red hat with a furry ball on top and strings down the sides.

He was holding a broom about three times as tall as he was. I was doing all the real work, but there he was, just so cute and determined, swiping away at the sides of the car. It was great. He thought he was a really big deal.

Card Making

THE simplEsT giFTs are often the most meaningful. Consider the homemade card. With just a few materials from around the house or from nature — and a little imagination — kids can create a greeting that will put a smile on a friend’s face, or make Grandma and Grandpa swoon.

We asked local art educators and card makers for tips on creating stand-out greetings — for the holiday season, or just because.

“I love cards because they’re tangible. You can hold them in your hands, tack them on your walls or fridge or even frame them,” says Scout’s Honor Paper founder Annemarie Buckley. She’s been selling homemade cards since she was a kid — in lieu of lemonade, she says. “They show the recipient that you spent time thinking about them and that you care,” she explains. “In a sea of fleeting, and often deleted, texts and emails, this can mean so much.”

RECyClE Old iTEms.

“Keep a few containers of potential treasures on hand,” says Maggie Standley of Wingspan Studio in Burlington. Bottle tops, old maps, packaging labels, buttons and used envelopes are all great materials to reuse.

dRAW FROm nATuRE.

Go on an outdoor walk to collect flowers, leaves and other organic materials to affix to your card, says Standley. Try squishing and rubbing geranium petals or grass on paper to make natural pigment.

pERsOnAlizE iT.

Create a monogrammed card by making a large drawing of the first letter in the recipient’s name, suggests Standley. Brainstorm other things that start with that letter and decorate the card with images of those things. For example, Grandma might get a card with pictures of gorillas and Gandhi. Or create a collaged portrait of the card recipient.

Other Things to Consider

Envelopes are a great way to add additional color, says Buckley. if the card is a painting, the envelope is the wall color.

Wrap your card in newspaper or magazine pages, topped with a string or yarn bow to elevate the card to a unique work of art, says standley.

Cards aren’t just for special occasions. Give them “when friends or family need a little encouragement or you just want to say hello,” says Buckley. “celebrating the everyday is unexpected and can be even more meaningful.”

sTAmp WiTH VEggiEs And

Use cookie cutters to cut raw potato slices into festive shapes, suggests Becca McHale from the newly opened ONE Arts Center in Burlington. For more complex rose- or mum-like floral prints, experiment with cabbages, celery, radicchio and endive. Try carrots with the tips trimmed off, okra or cranberries for smaller stamps.

mAKE iT spARKlE.

Use blue and green watercolors to create a simple landscape of water and mountains, says Finnie Trimpi, programming director of ArtisTree Community Arts Center in South Pomfret. Embellish a small detail — like a sun or the horizon line — with glitter.

CuT And pAsTE

For a clean finish, preschoolers and older kids can decorate a large piece of paper. Cut out the most interesting parts and glue them to prefolded card stock, leaving a half-inch border as a frame, suggests Trimpi.

BORROW FROm THE BEsT.

Really little kids can’t make their own cards. But you can cut and collage pieces of their art work into new shapes — the way children’s book author Eric Carle does in his illustrations, says early childhood educator and mom of two Heather Duhamel.

pAinT.

That’s a Wrap

BY MEGAN JAMES AND ALISON NOVAK

The holidays are coming. What are you going to get for the kids in your life? Sure, you could pick up the hottest new LEGO or Frozen paraphernalia. But what if the goal is something so unique they’ll remember it when they’re grown up?

To get readers’ creative juices flowing, Kids VT spoke with some knowledgeable gift-giving experts — local toy- and booksellers — about the best kids gifts they ever gave or received. We also asked them to make recommendations from their stores. We weren’t looking for the hot new bestsellers that might end up buried in the back of the closet, but the toys and books that kids will return to year after year. Read on for their stories and suggestions.

GIFT GUIDE

Look for love at first sight

KAREN WILLIAMS-FOX, owner of Woodbury Mountain Toys in Montpelier, wanted just one thing for Christmas when she was 8: a huge stuffed lion named Rufus. “It was really goofy and looked nothing like a lion,” she explains. “My parents thought I was crazy and said ‘No way! You don’t need any more stuffed animals. You’ll grow out of it.’”

After their naysaying, Williams-Fox was that much more excited to find Rufus sitting on the sofa when she came downstairs on Christmas morning. “I screamed with joy,” Williams-Fox says. “I had that lion forever. Even my children played with it.”

Williams-Fox recommends MASTER KITZ with paints, pastels, stencils and stickers to help kids make their own versions of masterpieces from artists such as Monet and Matisse. “You get to learn the techniques these artists used,” says Williams-Fox, “and you end up with a finished product you can hang on the wall.” Appropriate for ages 4 and up.

Master Kitz, $35 at Woodbury Mountain Toys

Nancy Barringer, owner of Jamie Two Coats Toy Shop in Shelburne, likes KATHE KRUSE dolls for babies and toddlers. The German-made dolls, which come in both girl and boy versions, have cloth faces and soft velour bodies stu ed with cotton and wool. “A snuggly first friend,” suggests Barringer. A more realistic-looking version with a vinyl face is available for older children.

For ages 1 and up, Barringer is also a fan of wooden peg dolls with matching bowls by German toy company GRIMM’S. The toys are “so tactile” and great for learning colors and counting. They pair well with Grimm’s colorful wooden house blocks, creating “so much potential for open-ended play,” says Barringer.

Kathe Kruse baby/toddler dolls, $69; wooden peg dolls with matching bowls, $59; small set of wooden house blocks, $75 at Jamie Two Coats Toy Shop

Make it magical

“My father was the world’s best gift giver,” remembers ELIZABETH BLUEMLE, co-owner of the Flying Pig Bookstore in Shelburne. “He was a magician by hobby, so he had a finely tuned sense of what might delight and enchant children and adults.

luemle says she’s excited about , an oversize reference picture book for kids 7 and up curated by Katie Scott and Jenny Broom. She describes it as “a gorgeous collection of illustrations of the animal world with a little information.”

Another noteworthy new release is GUS & ME: THE STORY OF MY GRANDDAD AND MY FIRST GUITAR, an autobiographical picture book by Keith Richards. Yes, that Keith Richards. It’s “a simple, lovely, universally appealing story of a grandfather sharing his humor, adventurous spirit and creative passion with his grandson,” says Bluemle.

Animalium, $28; Gus & Me: The Story of My Granddad and My First Guitar, $14.40 at the Flying Pig Bookstore

“He paid close attention to his giftees’ passions and preferences. My grandmother always received a clever, unusual kitchen gadget for Christmas; my mom, something simple and elegant; my sister, something sporty or rugged. For me, he chose beguiling miniature things, and wonderful books.

“And he added an extra magic touch to everything! My sister and I might find small ceramic fortune cookies in our stockings, with tiny pull-out messages from my father to each of us.”

Bluemle says her father’s knack for picking out just the right present has influenced her as a bookseller. “I’m not sure who recommended the books my father chose for me — there weren’t many neighborhood bookstores in Scottsdale, Arizona, back in the 1960s and ’70s — but someone helped him find the best of the best. Now, when I help someone find a special book for a child, I often think about how magical those gifts were for me, and try to put just the right book into those hands.”

Rebecca Chauvin, director of operations for Vergennes-based toy manufacturer

WowToyz recommends its CUDDLE ZOO PLUSH DINOSAURS. The stu ed prehistoric animals can stand unassisted and feature life-like details. They’re “irresistibly huggable” and “perfect even for the youngest dinosaur enthusiast,” Chauvin says.

Cuddle Zoo plush dinosaurs, $3.95 to $29.95, depending on size; available at Buttered Noodles, Homeport, Shelburne Supermarket and Kidstructive Fun at the Burlington Town Center

Find the perfect match

When COLLEEN SHIPMAN’s 12-year-old daughter, Emily, was younger, she wasn’t into books. She wanted to be a cheerleader. That was “tough” for her mom, the longtime manager of Phoenix Books in Essex Junction.

But Emily eventually started hitting the books — because of the perfect gift, says her mom.

Shipman was at a bookselling conference a couple of years ago when she stumbled upon Undead by Kirsty McKay. “The cover caught my eye,” she says, describing a comically gruesome illustration: the bottom half of a uniformed cheerleader holding a blood-dripping axe. The edgy middle-grade novel is written with a sarcastic sense of humor Shipman thought her daughter would enjoy. And she knew Emily would connect with the cheerleader protagonist.

The best part, Shipman noted, was that the copy she gave her daughter was autographed. And Emily loved “the story of me going on a business trip and finding it for her,” says Shipman. These days, Emily reads voraciously, says her book-loving mother with great relief.

Buttered Noodles sta er Corey Bushey is a fan of KINETIC SAND by Waba Fun, which has magnetic components to make it easily shapeable; it’s recommended for ages 3 and up. “It’s an amazing sensory item,” she says. It’s nontoxic as well, “ just in case it makes its way into little ones’ mouths.”

Kinetic Sand, $14.99 for a 1-kilo box at Buttered Noodles

Shipman suggests OUTSIDE by Vermont author Deirdre Gill, which is recommended for ages 3 to 8. “It’s a beautiful winter story,” she says. A little boy asks his older brother to play, but he’s busy on a computer. The younger boy “goes out into the snow and flops into it,” says Shipman. “The snow is flu y and supportive. You know how it feels.” Catch the author — and pick up a copy — at a book-signing event at Phoenix Books in Burlington on November 8 at 2 p.m.

Outside, $16.99 at Phoenix Books

Sometimes the best bet is a timeless board game. Benoit says you can’t go wrong with RISK, the game of world domination.

“People want a toy that’s going to allow their kids to play with it over and over again,” she says. “Risk is a classic.” Kids City has the current Hasbro version and a retro 1959 version that includes a larger game board and wooden “army” pieces.

Risk, current version, $29.99; retro version, $39.99 at Kids City

Peter Sloan, co-owner of Turner Toys in Essex Junction, was wowed by the POWERUP

ELECTRIC PAPER AIRPLANE

CONVERSION KIT he saw at the Toy Fair in New York City earlier this year. The kit, recommended for ages 8 and up, comes with a lightweight power unit that clips to a paper airplane, allowing it to fly up to 30 seconds on a charge. Templates included in the kit help kids build air-worthy paper airplanes. “We love how they take a familiar toy like paper airplanes and make it that much more challenging,” Sloan says. “Tweaks can be made to make the airplane fly in circles, and you can even decorate it.”

PowerUp Electric Paper Airplane Conversion Kit, $16.99 at Turner Toys

Pay attention to presentation

The most memorable gift for Kids

City operations manager TINA

BENOIT was inspired by The Polar Express. She and her son, Jordan, now 26, used to read it together, starting when he was 8. In the story, a boy travels on a mysterious train to Santa’s village, where he selects a bell to take with him. But when he gets home, the bell is missing.

Benoit was a big fan of the book’s author, Chris Van Allsburg, and “how his storytelling evoked a sense of mystery.” Each night between Thanksgiving and Christmas that year, Benoit and her son read a few pages together.

Around this time, Jordan had been coming home from school asking his mother if Santa Claus was real. “Well, Jordan, he is if you believe,” she told him.

On Christmas Eve, Benoit set out his presents, including a hand-me-down computer with a bell hanging from it. She included a handwritten letter from Santa and left the computer on with the words “Merry Xmas” blinking on the screen.

At a family gathering, years later — long after Benoit had forgotten this gift — Jordan brought it up, saying it was his favorite holiday memory.

“To this day, when I’m around, he tells me Christmas happens to those who believe.”

Rose Knows

A child behavioral expert teaches parents the dos and don’ts of discipline

by KeN Picard

The five 4-year-old boys in Maris Rose’s outdoor recreation program sit quietly in a circle on a classroom floor. Each awaits his turn to suggest a morning activity at the All Souls Interfaith Gathering on Meach Cove Farm in Shelburne. As Rose goes around the circle asking, “Peter, what do you want to do today? Ryan, what do you want to do?” the boys soon reach a consensus: They want to climb trees, build a fort and play lions in the grass.

Rose shoulders a backpack with the word “love” stitched into the canvas, then leads them to the door. Before leaving, she hushes them with one finger in

anticipation of walking past other rooms in which massage and yoga instruction are under way. “Now, let’s all be as quiet as butterflies,” she instructs.

The boys dutifully follow Rose’s instructions while they exit the multiuse building.

Once outside, the boys sprint noisily down a nature trail into the trees. When two of them stray out of sight, Rose mimics a bird call — her signal for the group to reassemble. In an instant, all five boys dash back to her, form a circle and hold hands. Rose smiles and commends their promptness, then suggests they move on to another activity.

It’s not magic that enables the 58-year-old educator

to get children to listen and behave. Her decades of experience working with kids of all ages, including extremely troubled teens in court-ordered group homes, taught Rose some simple but effective techniques for modifying children’s behavior. Now she teaches classes based on these methods, ranging from large groups to one-on-one sessions, for parents, teachers and other professional childcare providers.

This particular program for pre-kindergarteners, called Maris’ Tree House, meets once a week for four hours. For a time, the boys pretend to be lions hiding in the leaves, awaiting a passing hippo on which to pounce. When they grow tired of that game, they run

down a grassy hill to a stand of pines ideal for climbing. There, the boys pretend to be orangutans, honey badgers, red foxes and, incongruously, lifeguards. Rose guides and encourages, but doesn’t micromanage their imaginative play.

She never yells or says, “No!” In fact, when the boys all begin talking at once, rather than raising her own voice, Rose covers her ears in mock pain and cries, “Wait, wait, wait! My ears are full!” The only negative admonition she makes all morning is when she warns them not to throw rocks because “rocks can hurt someone.”

This is a tactic she teaches to adults. She believes parents need to understand and adjust their own reactions to their children’s unwanted actions. It reflects her fundamental principle of behavior modification: “That which you give attention to flourishes.”

In other words, she explains, when parents shout, get angry and punish their kids for negative behavior, it only reinforces for the child that this behavior will get their parents’ attention. Instead, Rose teaches parents to identify and name the unwanted behavior — whining, throwing tantrums, pulling hair, etc. — then determine what the child is trying to communicate with it. For example, is your daughter whining because she lacks the vocabulary to explain what she wants? Or because she believes you’re paying more attention to her little brother than to her?

Next, Rose instructs parents to identify and name the opposite, preferred behavior — in the case of whining, a daughter using her “big-girl voice” — and then reinforce it with “calm, consistent and conscious action.” So if your daughter whines for something, you might say, “How about you come back in two minutes and ask me using your big-girl voice?” Rose recommends setting a timer and asking the child to return when it goes o and then ask properly.

Tricks of the Trade

ON TIME-OUTS: Time-outs can be effective, Rose says, as long as they’re not overused or seen as punishment. Because “time out” has so many meanings, she prefers to use a “remembering chair,” where kids take a break from activities. “I can see that you’re not ready to play carefully with your friends,” she might tell a misbehaving child. “You can go over here and look at a book for a few minutes … I’ll call you back in a minute.”

Rose’s method involves using a “four-to-one ratio” rule when correcting unwanted behaviors. In other words, for every correction a parent gives a child, the parent should identify (or make up) four positive acknowledgements that commend the child for doing things right.

For example, if your daughter comes into the room and says, “Hi, Dad!” you might answer, “Hey! I heard you use your big-girl voice! Good for you!” (That’s one.)

COPING WITH DISAPPOINTMENT: What do you do if your child wasn’t invited to a friend’s birthday party? You can charge over to the other parent’s house and demand your kid be invited. But a better option, Rose says, is to listen to your child and help her process her feelings: “Oh, your friend is having a party? You must have felt sad when you heard that. Parties are fun to go to. Yes, I understand. Thanks for telling me about it. Is there something I can do to make you feel better?” You’ve affirmed your child’s feelings but didn’t blame someone else, which would only encourage a victim mentality.

If she plays all afternoon without whining, you might say, “I haven’t heard any whining this afternoon. I’ve heard only your big-girl voice.” (That’s two.)

As Rose explains, this method should always involve brief, consistent and respectful language. It’s most e ective, she adds, when parents correct their children’s unwanted behavior early on, before they lose patience, get angry and yell.

“By the end of the day, if you haven’t reinforced for them the positive behavior, you haven’t done your job,” Rose adds. “What’s amazing is that kids, in a very short amount of time, get what elicits socially appropriate approval.”

A common mistake many parents make, Rose notes, is taking their children’s misbehavior personally.

“You often hear parents say, ‘Oh, they know that when they say that, it really bugs me,’” she says. “Or when a child who can’t communicate their feelings says, ‘I hate you! You’re a bad mommy!’”

Rather than taking such barbs to heart, Rose advises parents to identify what’s making their child angry or upset by saying, “It sounds like you’re upset. Can you tell me why?” As she points out, many children (and some adults) lack the ability to express their feelings and take responsibility for them.

“Teach them to own their problem,” she adds. “That which you own, you can change. If you don’t own your problem, you can’t change it.”

From Big Family to Boys Town

Rose’s own upbringing wasn’t quite as progressive. She grew up in a large Catholic family in Rochester, N.Y. The oldest of five children, Rose recalls her family’s parenting style as “strict, but in a good way. I felt like

ON POWER STRUGGLES WITH KIDS: There are as many reasons for power struggles as there are types of parents, Rose says. Some parents fear looking weak, to their children or others, if they cede any ground. Rose suggests not pushing back. “It takes two to have a power struggle,” she says. Sometimes parents need to let kids learn the logical consequences of their behavior. “I’ve had children delivered to me in pajamas because the parents weren’t going to have a power struggle.”

At the same time, she cautions, “families are not democracies, but benevolent dictatorships.” Sometimes parents must have their way, shrug their shoulders and say, “You’re disappointed. I understand.”

ON HELICOPTER PARENTING: Overprotection does kids no favors later in life. “Some people equate their child’s disappointment and temporary unhappiness with something that’s going to affect them for years on end,” she says. “But it’s really important for children to have age-appropriate disappointment and frustration. Frustration, then practice, then mastery is part of how we grow. What we’re doing when we’re over-parenting or helicoptering or managing things too much is, we’re robbing our children of that ability to get stronger, to build resilience.”

ROSE KNOWS, P. 24 »

they would really listen if I had an issue, even if they couldn’t always figure it out.”

In her house, all the kids had chores, answered the phone using their first name and had to be excused before leaving the table. Her mother wasn’t the most patient of parents.

“She yelled a lot,” Rose recalls. “The joke my sister will tell today is, she’s still grounded.”

“But it was an Italian family,” she adds, “with lots of music and singing and music lessons, and laughter and baking at Grandma’s house down the street, and my dad taking us to play baseball and to the local pool … It was so much fun.”

After earning a college degree in education, Rose spent much of the late 1970s and early ’80s working with her former husband at the now-famous Boys Town, in Omaha, Neb. Founded in 1917 by Edward Flanagan, a Roman Catholic priest, Boys Town pioneered an innovative approach to raising boys from broken homes and troubled pasts.

Rose, her then-husband and their two young sons lived full time in several group homes with nine boys, all of whom came from dysfunctional backgrounds. For some, Boys Town was their last stop before juvenile detention; others had been removed from homes where they’d endured physical abuse, substance abuse and mental-health issues.

“The idea,” she explains “was to live with them and create a family situation with a highly trained couple, so they could have around them a functional family.” There, Rose and her partner implemented a very

strict behavior-modification program, which was later adopted at group homes around the country.

Whenever Rose or her husband had to do a correction, it involved a strict, nine-step procedure for the parent or teacher to follow, starting with praise, empathy or affection, then a clear description of what the child had done wrong. Using a point system, the boys either earned or lost points depending upon their behavior.

before finally settling in Vermont in 1988. Initially, Rose took a job as a reading teacher in the Burlington school district. About a year later, the then-director of Annette’s Preschool in Hinesburg asked her if she would teach a parenting class, based on her past experience.

Rose devised her own program, which combined some of her formal training with lessons she’d learned at the group homes. About 15 years ago, Rose started teaching preschool, then launched her current outdoor rec program and parenting classes, which she’s run simultaneously ever since.

Nancy Elder, director of the Charlotte Children’s Center, has worked with Rose in various capacities over the last five years. Rose has trained Elder’s staff and offered free parenting workshops to the center’s clients.

This simple approach proved very effective, according to Rose. Because all the boys were involved in every aspect of housekeeping — cooking, cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping — they became invested in their home’s success. And, because the older boys lived with Rose’s own sons, who were 2 and 4 at the time, the older boys learned compassion and empathy by learning to care for them, too.

After working in Omaha, Rose and her former husband traveled to other states around the country, setting up more group homes based on the same model,

“Maris has done this work for a lot of years, and I have a lot of confidence in her approaches to children,” Elder says. “She and I are in agreement about the way we should always speak to children. We feel that on the one hand, children should always be treated with respect and kindness in your interactions with them. But at the other end, that doesn’t mean being permissive. Children need guidance and boundaries, and they need to know that there is somebody watching out for them.”

Now a grandmother — her sons are 35 and 33 — Rose has begun shifting her emphasis to working with parents and sharing the lessons she’s learned. First and foremost, she reminds parents that good parenting is a difficult job.

“It’s pretty organic and messy, being a parent and having a family,” she says. “These techniques can help make things easier. But they don’t make it easy.”

It’s really important for children to have age-appropriate disappointment and frustration. Frustration, then practice, then mastery is part of how we grow.

Maris Rose

ORTHODONTICS DRS

DRS.

Braces

Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have 2-3 years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile — that feels great, too.

Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have 2-3 years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile — that feels great, too.

Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have 2-3 years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile — that feels great, too.

Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have 2-3 years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile — that feels great, too.

NOV CALENDAR

r o u ynamic

GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS:

Friday, November 28, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe. Ages 5 and up. $20-52; family discount available. Info, 760-4634. sprucepeakarts.org

Highlights

7 Friday-9 Sunday

VERMONT DANCE & DRUM FESTIVAL

Three days of West African music and movement inspire all ages during this Jeh Kulu Dance and Drum Theater event. Artists from Guinea, Senegal and Mali share their rhythms during workshops and performances, including a free Sunday class just for kids and presentations by Jeh Kulu’s youngest members. Preregister to participate in classes. Burlington City Hall, Free to watch. Info, 859-1802.

13 Thursday-15 Saturday

‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’

The Vergennes Union High School music department presents this tuneful production featuring free-spirited mermaid Ariel, who dreams of a world above the sea. Vergennes Union High School, $10-12. Info, 877-2983, ext. 230.

22 Saturday

WESTFORD TURKEY TROT

Before the GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS settle in for a five-week run at New York City’s New Victory Theater, the elite Chinese performers make a pit stop in Stowe. Clad in spectacular costumes, the acrobats combine awe-inspiring maneuvers — think spinning plates and jumping through hoops — with traditional dance and contemporary music. Hailing from China’s Hebei province, the troupe represents a lineage of acrobatics dating back more than 2,000 years, when it provided entertainment for emperors. Prepare to be royally impressed.

Families seeking fresh air choose from a 10K or 3K race through the rural roads of Westford, with hand-painted medals for age-group winners and home-baked treats for sale. A 100-yard Tot Trot is geared toward the littlest athletes. Westford School, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $12 for preregistration by November 21; $15 on race day. Info, 878-5804.

28 Friday-30 Sunday

‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Young dancers from the Albany Berkshire Ballet visit the Land of Sweets in this holiday classic. All ages. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, $19-41. Info, 863-5966.

SPOTLIGHTS & LISTINGS BY ALISON NOVAK

4 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

creative Tuesdays: Artists engage their imaginations with recycled materials. All ages, but kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Baby & maternity

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

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

Health & Fitness

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

shelburne open Gym: Tumbling tots burn energy on trampolines, balance beams, rings and more. Gymstar Gymnastics, Shelburne, 12 & 2 p.m. $3-6. Info, 985-8948.

Williston open Gym: Petite gymnasts bounce,

Library & Books

Fairfax Preschool story Time: Kids and their caregivers settle in for themed gatherings around books. Ages 6 and under. Fairfax Community Library, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Gaming For Teens & Adults: Players of all skill levels engage in Magic: The Gathering and other amusements. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult or have parental permission to attend. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5-7:45 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216. Read to a dog: Pet-loving kiddos share books with registered therapy pooches. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

music

children's sing-Along With Lesley Grant: Parents sip coffee while wee ones break into song with a local musician and educator. Preschool-age kids and younger. The Bees Knees, Morrisville, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 888-7889. Kids music with Raphael: Local favorite Raphael Groton plays tunes to make the little ones dance and giggle. All ages. The Skinny Pancake Burlington, 11:30 a.m.-noon. $3 per family. Info, 540-0188.

music With mr. chris: Singer and storyteller Chris Dorman leads kids in music and dance. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

Nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: A seed is sleepy: Plant enthusiasts read about and explore a variety of seeds to find out what makes them so special. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

5 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Toddler Time Art class: Parents relax with free coffee while their wee ones cut loose and create with provided art supplies and guidance. Ages 5 and under. ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 9 a.m.noon, $8 per visit; $60 for a 10-class punch card. Info, oneartscollective@gmail.com.

Baby & maternity

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

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Pumpkin Pancakes: Kids mash locally sourced gourds and crack fresh eggs, then cook up their own flapjacks like pros. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per adult-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Health & Fitness

See November 4.

shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon. Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

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

creative Writing club: Young wordsmiths let their imaginations take off on the page. Ages 9 and up. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

dorothy canfield Fisher Book discussion: Hiding Out at the Pancake Palace by Nan Marino is the subject of a spirited conversation. Ages 8-11. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

e-origami: Paper, LED lights, copper tape and button batteries combine to make shrimp puppets with light-up eyes. Grades 4-7. Waterbury Public Library, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036. Lego club: Mini-makers participate in surprise challenges with colorful interlocking blocks. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

music

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

Preschool music With derek: Kids tap their toes in time to a fun, tune-filled gathering. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660. rockin' ron the friendly Pirate: Small scallywags "ooh" and "aargh!" during swashbuckling songs, movements and guessing games. Ages 7 and under, accompanied by an adult. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

6 THURSDAY

arts & crafts

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

Baby & maternity

Birth Healing mini-series: Childbirth educator

Marianne Perchlik facilitates a conversation about the experience of having a baby with postpartum moms. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 595-7953.

Birth Healing mini-series: Childbirth educator

Marianne Perchlik facilitates a conversation about the experience of having a baby with postpartum moms. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 595-7953.

Burlington Prenatal yoga: See November 4, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

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

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

infant massage: New parents learn the techniques and benefits of this ancient tradition in a slowpaced, discussion-filled class. Tea provided. Babies ages four weeks to crawling with one or both parents or a caregiver. Yoga Roots, Shelburne, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15. Info, 985-0090.

Health & fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4.

shelburne open Gym: See November 4.

yoga with danielle: Curious toddlers and preschoolers learn movement techniques through social interaction, repetition and play. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1800.

Library & Books

card making: Crafter Karen McNall provides inspiration and materials for kids to make their own paper greetings. Fairfax Community Library, 5:30-7:45 p.m. $2 per card made. Info, 849-2420. Hinesburg Lego club: Interlocking blocks, board games, snacks and books entertain kids ages 6 and up. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Classes

Lego Thursdays: The library supplies the building blocks, and kids bring their imagination and creativity. All ages. Haston Library, Franklin, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

Library Teen advisory Group: Adolescents gather to plan library programs and munch on pizza. Grades 7-12. New members welcome! Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

music

music for Preschoolers: Lively tunes with Peter Alsen or Derek Burkins strike the right note among the wee crowd. Ages 5 and under with a caregiver. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free; limited to one session per week per family. Info, 878-4918. spanish musical Kids: Niños celebrate Latin American culture through songs and games en español. Ages 1-5 with a caregiver. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 917-1776.

Theater

‘Peter Pan’: Edmunds Middle School Drama and Very Merry Theatre present an original musical adaptation of this timeless, high-flying tale. Edmunds Middle School, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 355-1461.

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

Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: The Vermont Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Kids Program is designed to promote self-esteem, discipline, “bully-proofing,” cooperation with peers and overall health and wellbeing. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu promotes mental toughness and perseverance and builds and instills courage and self-confidence. Your son or daughter will interact with other kids and have a chance to make new friends! Ages 4-7: Weekly on Wednesdays, 4:15 p.m. & Saturdays, 8:15 a.m.; Ages 8-14: Weekly on Wednesdays, 5 p.m. & Saturdays, 9 a.m. First class is free! Vermont Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, 55 Leroy Rd., Williston. Info: julio@bjjusa. com, 660-4072, vermontbjj.com.

The Birth That’s Right For You: Doctors, midwives and doulas, oh my! Lisa Gould Rubin’s unique approach helps you discover how to make decisions that are just right for you. She’ll help you gather your inner knowing of who you are and show you how to apply it to the process of giving birth so your experience of having a baby custom fits you and what you need every step of the way. One day: December 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. or Two Day: November 15-16, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Yoga Roots, 6221 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne. Info: 985-0090, yogarootsvt.com.

7 friday, p.31

THE DIARY OF A WIMPY KID may not sound like a compelling read. But it is, thanks to author Jeff Kinney and his middle-school weakling protagonist, Greg Heffley. Since its 2007 debut, Kinney’s children’s book series has sold more than 75 million copies. In celebration of his ninth book, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul, the author-cartoonist brings his Long Haul Road Trip experience to Vermont. Attendees can expect games, activities, photo opps and an autograph session with Kinney. An added bonus? After the event, budding bookworms can use their tickets to access a special website featuring personalized Wimpy Kid scrapbooks.

7 FRIDAY

arts & crafts

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

Fairs & Festivals

See Dr. First videos

“First With Kids” at fletcherallen.org/ firstwithkids

Vermont dance & drum Festival: Three days of West African music and movement inspire all ages during this Jeh Kulu Dance and Drum Theater event. Artists from Guinea, Senegal and Mali share their rhythms during workshops and performances, including a free Sunday class just for kids and presentations by Jeh Kulu’s youngest members. Preregister to participate in classes. Burlington City Hall, 5:30-8:45 p.m. Free to watch. Info, 859-1802.

Games

Family Bingo Night: Players of all ages tests their luck during a fun-filled game night. F. H. Tuttle Middle School, South Burlington, 6:308:30 p.m. $1 per card. Info, 846-4108.

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

Health & Fitness

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

Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

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

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

music

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

music With derek: An immature audience shakes out its sillies with tune-filled activities. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

Nature & science

robins Nest Nature Playgroup: Little explores ages 5 and under and their caregivers discover the sights, sounds and sensations of the forests and fields while learning how the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play. Dress in water- and mudproof clothing. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free; donations welcome. Info, 229-6206.

Theater

‘Peter Pan’: See November 6, 7 p.m.

8 SATURDAY

arts & crafts

itsy Bitsy Fashion design: Little couturiers learn hand-sewing techniques to create fashionable outfits and accessories for their favorite dolls. Ages 6-8. BCA Center, Burlington, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166.

Kids craft: cone Tree ornament: Paint, glitter, pom poms and foam come together to create a festive decoration. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646.

saturday Kids drop-in craft class: Hand builders create clay projects with seasonal themes, including flower vases, fall leaves, animal creatures and coil pots. Shelburne Craft School, 10-11:30 a.m. $10 per child. Info, 985-3648.

community

doll & me Tea Party: A fancy luncheon with an "Enchanted Seas" theme, accessory making and keepsake portraits makes for a lovely outing for dressed-up girls and their dolls. Ages 3-12. Church of the Rock, St. Albans, 11:30 a.m. & 3 p.m. $20; preregister. Info, 393-1964.

Education

indigenous Peoples movie: Vermont ethnographer, Ned Castle, award-winning Vermont filmmaker, Matt Day and ECHO screen four jointly created films focused on Native American topics including basket making, drumming, language and fellowship. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free with $10.50-13.50 admission. Info, 877-324-6386.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont dance & drum Festival: See November 7, 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m.

Food operation military Kids cooking class: Military children ages 8-13 learn about handling food safely, knife skills and creativity in the kitchen while whipping up pizza with homemade dough. Northside Baptist Church, Franklin, 1-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 656-0346.

Health & Fitness

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

8 sATurdAY (CoNtiNueD)

'Wonder' Handshake Art opening: Castings of handshakes inspired by R.J. Palacio's bestselling book, created by Franklin students, are on display for public viewing. Haston Library, Franklin, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.

music

Perlman music Program celebration concert: As a culmination of its annual fall residency in Stowe, the Perlman Music Program alumni ensembles perform chamber music masterworks, and Maestro Itzhak Perlman conducts the PMP String Orchestra. Recommended for ages 8 and up and practicing violin students. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7:30 p.m. $2045. Info, 760-4634.

Nature & science

Bird-monitoring Walk: Beginning birders embrace ornithology on an identification walk. Appropriate for older children. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 8-10 a.m. Donations appreciated. Info, 434-3068. EcHo story Explorers: A seed is sleepy: See November 4.

moonlit Wagon rides: Giddyup, let's go! Visitors tour the farm under the night sky, then head back to the Education Center for light snacks and activities. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 5:15, 6, 6:45 & 7:30 p.m. $7-10; free for children under 3. Info, 985-8686.

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

Parachutes: Curious kids make their own 'chutes to test air resistance. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Who sank the Boat?: Newbie boatbuilders craft a vessel, then see how much weight it can hold before sinking. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Summer museum admission, $13-16; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Theater

‘Peter Pan’: See November 6, 7 p.m.

saturday drama club: Thespians help Very Merry Theatre produce a show in just three hours. Ages 5-12. 333 Stage Performing Arts Studio, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $15 or pay what you can. Info, 863-6607.

9 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

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

dance

Kids African dance class: Master artist Sidiki Sylla shows off his moves as part of Jeh Kulu's Dance and Drum Festival. Ages 4-17. Burlington City Hall Auditorium, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 859-1802.

Education

indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8. Fairs & Festivals

Vermont dance & drum Festival: See November 7, 9:30 a.m.-6:15 p.m.

Food

First Foods: Cristi Nunziata, City Market's Outreach and Education Coordinator and mom to a 15-month-old, shares strategies, tips and recipes for meeting the nutritional needs of little ones ages 6-18 months. Babies welcome. City Market, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9731.

Health & Fitness

Essex sunday open Gym: Little gymnasts stretch, bounce and jump in an open play space. The under 7 crowd is welcome from 1-2:30 while the 7-12-year-olds come from 2:30-4 followed by ages 13 and up from 4-5:30. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Essex, 1-5:30 p.m. $8. Info, 655-3300.

World run day: Fleet-footed kids hoof it around Burlington in a one-mile fun run, followed by a 5K at 9:30 a.m. Coffee, bagels and a raffle follow the race. Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. Ski Rack, Burlington, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-8412.

Nature & science

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

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

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

my sky: See November 8.

10 MONDAY

Arts & crafts

Toddler Time Art class: See November 5.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: Pregnant mamas focus on movements that will ready their bodies for the next phase of life. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7 p.m. $15. Info, 778-0300. Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: Moms-to-be learn different breathing techniques and positions in preparation for birth. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 6-7:15 p.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

Games

After-school Games: Gamers bring their own Magic, Pokémon or Yu-Gi-Oh! cards, or borrow a deck from the library. Grades 3 and up. Snacks provided. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4. Little Yogis: Music, games and playful poses encourage the bitty set to learn and have fun. Ages 18 months-3 years with a caregiver. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 9-10 a.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

shelburne open Gym: See November 4, 10 a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m.

Tots Yoga: Preschool posers develop their practice away from caregivers with tunes, storytelling and creative movement. Ages 3-5. 2 Wolves Holistic Center, Vergennes, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $14. Info, 870-0361.

submit your december/January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

Essex drop-in story Time: Sensational stories thrill emergent readers ages 5 and under. Essex Free Library, Essex Junction, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

Norwich Bedtime story Time: Pajama-clad kids listen to best buddy stories like Frog and Toad and George and Martha with their real-life pals. All ages welcome. Norwich Public Library, 7-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1184.

music

music for Preschoolers: See November 6, 11 a.m.

musical story Time with Lesley Grant: Tuneful kids sing along with a local musician and educator. Ages 18 months to 4 years. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

11 TUESDAY

Baby & maternity

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

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

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4. Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

Fairfax Preschool story Time: See November 4.

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See November 4. read to a dog: See November 4.

music

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

Kids music with raphael: See November 4. music With mr. chris: See November 4.

12 WEdNEsdAY, p.35

Playgroups

MONDAY

Barre Open Gym: Sunrise Gymnastics, 10 a.m.-noon, $10 per child; $5 for additional siblings. Info, 223-0517.

Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers & Toddlers: St. Joseph School, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 862-2121.

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

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

Fusion 802 Playgroup: Fusion 802, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

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

Richford Playgroup: Richford Elementary, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 370-4797.

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

Waldorf Playgroup: Orchard Valley Waldorf School Main Campus, 1-2:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 456-7400.

Williston Playgroup: Alice in Noodleland: Buttered Noodles, 10-11 a.m. Free. Does not meet June 23. Info, 764-1810.

Winooski Family Center Playgroup: O’Brien Community Center, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.

TUESDAY

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

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

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

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures

Playgroup: Maple Street Recreation Center, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

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

WEDNESDAY

Barre Open Gym: See Monday. Sunrise Gymnastics, 10 a.m.-noon, $10 per child; $5 for additional siblings. Info, 223-0517.

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

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

Colchester Playgroup: Colchester Village Meeting House, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 264-5643.

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

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

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

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

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

South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

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

Williston Babytime Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, first Wednesday of every month, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Williston Evening Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

THURSDAY

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

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

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures

Playgroup: See Tuesday. 9:30-11 a.m.

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures

Spanish Playgroup: Maple Street Recreation Center, first Thursday of every month, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

Hinesburg Infant Playgroup: CarpenterCarse Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 482-4667.

Montgomery Playgroup: Montgomery Town Library, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

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

Randolph Playgroup: White River Craft Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 685-2264, ext. 24.

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

Winooski Family Center Playgroup: See Monday. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free.

FRIDAY

Barre Open Gym: See Monday, 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.

Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

Colchester Playgroup: See Wednesday.

Essex Center

Motor-Based Playgroup: Memorial Hall, Nov. 21, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

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

Montgomery Tumble Time: Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 347-1780.

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

Swanton Playgroup: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3033.

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

Williston Playgroup: Allen Brook School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

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

SATURDAY

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Preschool Open Gym: Maple Street Recreation Center, Every other Saturday, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-1613.

Franklin Tumble Time & Playgroup: Franklin Central School, Nov. 8, 9-11:15 a.m. Free. Meets December 7 and January 11. Info, 370-0838. Williston Spanish Music & Movement Playgroup: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Nov. 22, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

SUNDAY

Barre Older Kid Open Gym: Sunrise Gymnastics, 5-7 p.m. $10 for one child; $5 for additional siblings. Info, 223-0517.

Breakfast with SANTA

FREE ACTIVITIES!

• Pictures with Santa

• Cookie Decorating

• Manicures

• Face Painting

• Creating Christmas Cards and Ornaments

• Write a Letter to Santa

• Storytelling with Mrs. Claus

Saturday, December 6th

8:30am, 10:30am Breakfast

$10/person (Children 1 & under are free)

St. John Vianny Community Center, South Burlington Register online at www.josephshousevt.org

Battling ’Bots

Get ready to rumble! Kid-programmed robots duke it out during firsT lego league, a national robotics competition for tinkerers ages 9 through 14. Twenty-four vermont teams set their leGo mindstorms creations loose on a playing surface, racking up points for successfully completed tasks. Switching gears, participants must research a real-world problem, then present an innovative solution. during lulls in the high-tech action, spectators can explore Norwich University’s technology-related venues, including labs for 3d printing and medical simulation. an awards ceremony caps off the day.

firsT lego league: Sunday, November 16, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Plumley Armory, Norwich University in Northfield. All ages. Free. Info, 485-2886. firstlegoleague.org

Nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: Round Robin: Junior scientists learn all about what migration is like for our songbird friends. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

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

12 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Toddler Time Art class: See November 5.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See November 5.

Education

History for Homeschoolers: The hunting traditions of Abenaki, fur traders and early settlers is this month's topic of discussion. Ages

6-12. Vermont History Museum, Montpelier, 1-3 p.m. $4-5; free for parents and nonparticipating children; preregister. Info, 828-1314.

Games

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

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4.

Keeping Kids Healthy during the Winter months: Naturopathic doctor Jessica Stadtmauer talks with parents about the foods and herbs that keep children well, as well as homeopathic and home remedies. City Market, Burlington, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $5-10; preregister. Info, 861-9731.

shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon. Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

creative Writing club: See November 5. Green mountain Book Award Book discussion: Eager readers hear about some of this year's nominees, and plug their favorites.

Grades 9 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Read with a Pediatrician: Pediatric interns from Fletcher Allen share stories and collect book donations for the Reach Out and Read program, which promotes early literacy in pediatric exam rooms. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-7:15 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

music

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

song circle: community sing-Along: Songbirds raise their voices while Rich and Laura Atkinson accompany on a variety of instruments. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:45 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

13 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool Art dropin: See November 6.

Baby & maternity

Birth Healing mini-series: See November 6.

Birth Healing mini-series: See November 6.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See November 4, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

infant massage: See November 6.

community

stuttering support Group: School-age children with stutters and their families are invited to join these community-building gatherings. Meets at Pomeroy Hall. University of Vermont, Burlington, 4:15-5:15 p.m. Free. Info, 656-0250.

Education

History for Homeschoolers: See November 12.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Knife skills: It's never too soon to learn how to properly hold and use a knife. Dexterous kids use their new prowess to cut their way through an array of organic veggies and create a yummy turkey chili. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per adult-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Games

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

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4.

shelburne open Gym: See November 4.

Yoga with danielle: See November 6.

Library & Books

An Evening of 'Wonder': A thought-provoking, multimedia discussion of R.J. Palacio's awardwinning book focuses on how we can choose kindness and inclusion in our communities. Refreshments provided. Crossett Brook Middle School, Waterbury, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Hinesburg Lego club: See November 6. Lego Thursdays: See November 6. 'star Wars' club: Costumed young fans channel the Force as they chat about their favorite characters. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

music

music for Preschoolers: See November 6.

spanish musical Kids: See November 6.

Nature & science

Let's Talk Turkeys: What do turkeys eat for Thanksgiving? Preschoolers and their parents hit the trail to learn more about these wild birds. Ages 3-5 with adult. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

11 TuEsdAY (CoNtiNued)

13 THURsdAY (continued)

Theater

'The Little mermaid': The Vergennes Union High School music department presents this tuneful production featuring free-spirited mermaid Ariel, who dreams of a world above the sea. Vergennes Union High School, 7 p.m. $1012. Info, 877-2983, ext. 230.

14 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Family Wheel drop-in: See November 7.

Education

Homeschool Project day: Out-of-classroom learners share their current projects with an audience of parents and siblings. Grades K through

12. Milton Public Library, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Games

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

Cold Comfort

looking for a magical, childcentered celebration? the seasonal soirée known as the FALL iNTo WiNTER FAiR entertains kiddos of all ages on the sprawling campus of the orchard valley waldorf school. teachers wow the crowd with puppet shows, while the snow Queen’s sparkly white cave is the perfect venue for songs and stories. the creative fun continues with wet felting, paperstar making, clay painting and musical chairs, complete with live tunes from vermont strings. local crafts and food — look for chili and cornbread — round out the family-friendly fête.

FALL iNTo WiNTER FAiR: Saturday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Orchard Valley Waldorf School in East Montpelier. All ages. Free; cost of food and activities. Info, 456-7400. ovws.org

Health & Fitness

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

Thinksafe for Kids: Kids learn about "stranger danger" and how to keep safe in a clear, straightforward way. Ages 4-13. Martial Arts Vacation Camps, Milton, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4922.

Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

Early Bird math: See November 7. Family movie Night: 'Labyrinth': 15-year-old Sarah must navigate a complex maze in order to rescue her baby brother, Toby, in this film from the '80's . All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. Toddler Yoga and stories: Little ones perform simple poses and listen to a read-aloud tale. Ages 1-3. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

music

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

music With derek: See November 7. music With Robert: Families sing along with a local legend. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Nature & science

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

Robins Nest Nature Playgroup: See November 7.

Theater

'The Little mermaid': See November 13.

15 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

Franken-critters: Stuffed animals come alive when young makers sew them into something new. Ages 8-12. BCA Center, Burlington, 1:303:30 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166.

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

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

c ourtesy of orchard valley waldorf school

Free Wheelin': Clay enthusiasts learn their way around the potter's wheel. Price includes one fired and glazed piece per participant. Ages 6-12. BCA Print & Clay Studio, Burlington, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166.

Kids craft: Felt mug ornament: Coffee drinker in your life? Little crafters make a cozy and cute adornment to add to their tree.

Nature & science

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

Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646.

saturday Kids drop-in craft class: See November 8.

Education

indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.

Fairs & Festivals

Fall into Winter Fair: Live music, outdoor games, puppet shows, a book sale and a visit from Father Winter and Jack Frost are highlights of this Waldorf-sponsored event that celebrates the change of seasons. All ages. Orchard Valley Waldorf School, East Montpelier, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 456-7400.

Food

canned Goods sale: The Sisters of Mercy sell an assortment of pickles, jellies, relishes, jams and more made from home-grown fruits ad veggies. Mater Christi School, Burlington, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 658-5494.

Health & Fitness

Burlington outdoor Riglet Park: The south side of the aquarium is converted to a snowy obstacle course where kids ages 3-8 navigate challenges with the help of Smuggs and Burton staffers. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; parking rates apply. Info, 877-324-6386. shelburne open Gym: See November 4. 9 & 10:10 a.m.

Library & Books

dorothy canfield Fisher Book club: Bookworms in grades 4-7 gab about Better Nate Than Ever/i> by Tim Federle. Pizza and refreshments provided. Waterbury Public Library, noon. Free. Info, 244-7036.

international Games day: Kids try out a variety of tabletop amusements from around the world during this four-hour marathon session. Snacks provided. Fairfax Community Library, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

international Games day: Kids try out a variety of tabletop amusements from around the world during this four-hour marathon session. Snacks provided. Fairfax Community Library, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

international Games day: Kids try out a variety of tabletop amusements from around the world during this four-hour marathon session. Snacks provided. Fairfax Community Library, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

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

Batteries & motors: Light bulbs flicker — both literally and metaphorically — as kids make and measure electricity. All ages.

Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

EcHo story Explorers: Round Robin: See November 11.

Farm craft: Past & Present: Families spin wool, dip candles and make butter while comparing life on the farm in the 19th century and today. Ages 5 and up. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.noon. $10-12 per adult-child pair; $5-6 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 985-8686. Kitchen chemistry: Mad scientists combine common household products, which yield unexpectedly entertaining results. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. my sky: See November 8.

Theater

'The Little mermaid': See November 13. 3 p.m. saturday drama club: See November 8.

16 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

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

Education

indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.

Food

Kale for Kids: Health-conscious child-adult pairs learn how to make palate-pleasing smoothies, chips, popcorn and pesto with nutrient-rich, leafy greens. City Market, Burlington, 9-10 a.m. $5-10 per child; accompanying adults are free; preregister for each child attending. Info, 861-9731.

Health & Fitness

Essex sunday open Gym: See November 9.

Nature & science

creeping colors: Small scientists watch capillary action as water rises up their paper strips and separates out marker dyes. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. FiRsT LEGo League Robotics competition: Teams of tech-savvy kids ages 9-14 program an autonomous robot to score points on a themed playing field and create innovative solutions to problems during this national competition. (See spotlight page 34.) Norwich University, Northfield, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free to watch. Info, 485-2886. (See spotlight, page 34.)

Leafcutter ants: Nature fans examine the secret lives of "insect fungus farmers" during this hands-on investigation. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. my sky: See November 8.

submit your december/January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

136 Locust Street Burlington, VT 862-6696 www.cksvt.org admissions@cksvt.org facebook.com/cksvt

PRESCHOOL TO 8TH GRADE

OPEN HOUSE

Tuesday, November 18th at 8:30 AM

Contact us at (802) 862-6696 or osteel@ cksvt.org for additional information or to schedule a tour. Come

Ongoing Exhibits

EcHo LaKE aQuaRium and sciEncE cEnTER

Info, 864-1848

Burton indoors Riglet Park: Young shredders ages 3-8 explore an interactive display of snowboarding, including balance boards, crafts, a mini terrain park and puzzles. Weekdays from 2:30-5 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m.-3 p.m..

Through November 16.

‘coffee: The World in your cup’: Visitors to this traveling exhibit learn how coffee — one of the world’s most widely traded commodities — affects cultures economies and environments around the world. The beverage’s origins, methods of production and producers are also explored. Through January 4.

monTsHiRE musEum oF sciEncE

Info, 649-2200

‘only owls’: Forty two-dimensional artworks from the Woodson Art Museum’s collection provide insight into the fascinating world of these wise old birds.

Through December 7.

WondERFEET Kids’ musEum

Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Info, 282-2678

Wonderfeet Kids’ museum: This children’s museum features interactive exhibits that allow kids to explore, role play and create.

16 sunday (CoNtiNued)

17 MONDAY

arts & crafts

Knitting for Kids: Novices learn how to knit a hat on the library's looms. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6955.

Toddler Time art class: See November 5.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal yoga: See November 10.

Vergennes Prenatal yoga: See November 10.

Games

Lego club: Builders fashion architecturally sound constructions. Ages 7-12. Milton Public Library, 3:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4. Little yogis: See November 10.

shelburne open Gym: See November 4, 10 a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m.

Tots yoga: See November 10.

Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: Little musicians ages 24 months and under sing songs and engage in early literacy activities. Rutland Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 773-1860.

Essex drop-in story Time: See November 10.

Pajama story Time: Bedtime yoga: Jammieclad kiddos bring their favorite stuffed animals for tales and simple poses with yogi Danielle Brown. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

music

music for Preschoolers: See November 6, 11 a.m.

nature & science

Books & Beyond: science for Preschoolers: Children’s literature and hands-on activities combine for fun science learning and exploration. Ages 3-5 with a parent or caregiver. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:1511 & 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

18 TUESDAY

arts & crafts

crafternoon: Art-minded kids get the weekend off to a creative start building with craft sticks. Grades 4 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

creative Tuesdays: See November 4. Explore your senses: Little art lovers learn about Andy Warhol, tour the museum's Warhol exhibition and make pop art hand print creations Ages 3-5. Plattsburgh State Art Museum, 10-11:30 a.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 518-564-2498.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal yoga: See November 4. shelburne Prenatal yoga: See November 4.

Education

Homeschool dcF Book discussion: Out-ofclassroom learners gather to chat about Better Nate Than Ever by Tim Federle. Grades K-12. Milton Public Library, 1-2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4. Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

'diary of a Wimpy Kid' Book signing: Bestselling author Jeff Kinney stops off in Jericho during his one-of-a-kind road trip to promote

the ninth title in his Wimpy Kid series, The Long Haul. Browns River Middle School, Jericho, 6 p.m. $15-17 for ticket packages (includes book and 1-2 tickets); purchase in advance by calling Phoenix Books Essex. Info, 872-7111. (See spotlight, page 30.)

Fairfax Preschool story Time: See November 4. Gaming For Teens & adults: See November 4. Read to a dog: See November 4.

music

children's sing-along With Lesley Grant: See November 4.

Kids music with Raphael: See November 4. music With mr. chris: See November 4.

nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: not a stick: 'Tis the season to explore the many ways to play creatively with tree appendages. All ages. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

19 WEDNESDAY

arts & crafts

Toddler Time art class: See November 5.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal yoga: See November 5.

Education

Geographic information systems day: Youth ages 5-11 learn about geography and maps, while noshing on globe cupcakes. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon. Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

code for Girls: Technologyminded fourth through sixth grade females learn how to make their own interactive stories using Scratch, Hopscotch and Arduino. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036. creative Writing club: See November 5.

movies

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

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

music

moving & Grooving With christine: See November 5.

music makers: Little ones ages 18 months to 6 years and their grown-ups sing joyful songs as a tool for learning. Richmond Free Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.

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

20 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: See November 6.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See November 4, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

infant massage: See November 6.

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

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4.

shelburne open Gym: See November 4.

Yoga with danielle: See November 6.

Library & Books

Hinesburg Lego club: See November 6.

Lego Thursdays: See November 6.

Numbers are magical!: Elementary schoolaged children learn tricks and memory aids to help build math skills. Fairfax Community Library, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Pajama story Time: Jammie-clad young'uns hunker down for a few stories before bedtime. Crafts and snacks provided. Ages 2-6 with an adult. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

movies

middle school Books-to-Film discussion: Bookworms read Flipped by Wendelin Van Sraanen in advance, then watch the movie version over snacks. Milton Public Library, 3:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

music

music for Preschoolers: See November 6. spanish musical Kids: See November 6.

Theater

'shrek the musical': Burlington High School's drama department presents a slapstick show for the whole family featuring ogres and 18 dancing rats. Burlington High School, 7-9 p.m. $6-12. Info, 727-3788.

21 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Family Wheel drop-in: See November 7.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4.

Family Yoga: Flexible families bring calm to their minds while learning new poses, breathing techniques and games. Barlow Street Community Center, St. Albans, 6-6:45 p.m. $5 per child; free for adults; preregister. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

A dangerous Night of Writing: Daring young scribes put their pens to the test during this writea-thon, where prizes are doled out at the end of the night. All ages welcome. Phoenix Books, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111. Early Bird math: See November 7. songs & stories With matthew: See November 7.

Teen Advisory Board: Young adults think up original characters, then design them with marshmallows during this monthly gathering. Grades 9-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

movies

Teen movie Night: 'million dollar Arm': A sports agent stages an unconventional recruitment strategy to get talented Indian cricket players to play major league baseball in this PG-rated flick. Free popcorn and beverage. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

music

Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See November 7. music With derek: See November 7. music With Robert: See November 14.

Nature & science

celebrate discovery!: A celebration of the launch of the David Goudy Discovery Fund — a capital campaign for new and enhanced exhibits — includes special evening activities and book signings by Vermont authors. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 5-8 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Friday Nights for Teen Tinkerers: Would-be Ben Franklins create, design or build something cool. Grades 6-9. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 6:30-8 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; preregistration encouraged. Info, 649-2200.

Robins Nest Nature Playgroup: See November 7.

22 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

Kids craft: santa ornament: Ho, ho, ho!! Kids make a hanging jolly guy out of foam pieces. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646.

River of Light Lantern making: Families craft magical willow-and-tissue-paper lights in preparation for Waterbury's River of Light Community Lantern Procession on December 6. Bring a bag lunch and pruning shears if possible. Ages 4 and up. Ages 4-8 must be accompanied by an adult. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 253-8358.

saturday Kids drop-in craft class: See November 8.

Education

indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.

Health & Fitness

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

Westford Turkey Trot: Families seeking fresh air choose from a 10K or 3K race through the rural roads of Westford, with hand-painted medals for age-group winners and home-baked treats for sale. A 100 yard Tot Trot is geared toward the littlest athletes. Westford School, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $12 for preregistration by November 21; $15 on race day. Info, 878-5804.

Library & Books

American Girl Tea Party: Little ladies sit down for an afternoon cuppa with treats, games and snacks. Ages 8-12 accompanied by an adult. Milton Public Library, 2-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Jamie Two Coats Toyshop

Located in the ❤ of Shelburne Village

Monday-Saturday 10-6

Sunday 11-5 802-985-3221

22 sATuRdAY, p.40

KIDS GROW FAST!

That’s why leasing skis for your child at Ski & Snowboard Express makes a lot of sense. Forget the expense of buying new equipment that your kid will outgrow in a season. Instead, lease it from us and save a lot of green!

JUNIOR SKI LEASE

Get On Board

Can’t wait to introduce your little one to snowboarding? You don’t have to. in anticipation of the riding season, the BurToN riGlET ParK ProGram sets up shop in eCHo’s lakeside Hall. For two weeks, an interactive exhibit introduces kids ages 3 through 8 to the principles of the winter sport. visitors can test out balance boards, build a mini-terrain park with kinetic sand and solve puzzles made of actual snowboards. and for one day only, burton and Smugglers’ Notch staffers head to the waterfront, where they help pint-size shredders navigate modified slopes — made of real snow!

BurToN riGlET ParK ProGram: Indoor Riglet Park: Saturday, November 1, through Sunday, November 16, weekdays from 2:30-5 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Outdoor Riglet Park: Saturday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center in Burlington. Ages 3-8. Free with $10.50-13.50 admission. Info, 877-324-6386. echovermont.org

22 saTurday (CoNtiNued)

manga club: Like-minded peers share their favorite Japanese comics. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

meet the North Pole Postman: The author of Post Mark: Santa's Misfit Postman comes dressed as the North Pole mail carrier for hourly readings and book signings. He'll even deliver kids' letters to Mr. Claus himself. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 764-1800.

music

Kids creating music: Bob Brookens leads children in a toe-tapping playtime with instrument activities, song and dance. 18 months-4 years. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Nature & science

EcHo story Explorers: Not a stick: See November 18. machine madness: Emerging engineers of all ages link their home-built contraptions to create an incredible chain reaction. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 1-3 p.m. Free for families who preregister a machine; $11-14 museum admission otherwise; preregister. Info, 649-2200.

my sky: See November 8.

Theater

rick Goldin and the music & Puppets: Little ones wiggle, dance and jump along to original and familiar songs presented by Rick and his puppet friends. Ages 3 and up. Alumni Hall. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 603-646-2422.

saturday drama club: See November 8.

23 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

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

Education

indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.

Health & Fitness

Essex sunday open Gym: See November 9.

Nature & science

my sky: See November 8. optical illusions: Young minds discover that things are not always what they seem during this science-based session. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. Paper-cup Telephones: Talkers and listeners discover whether sound can really travel through a string. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

submit your december/January events for print by November 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

24 MONDAY

arts & crafts

Toddler Time art class: See November 5.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal yoga: See November 10.

Vergennes Prenatal yoga: See November 10.

Games

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

Lego Fun: Budding builders share blocks. Grades K and up; kids under 5 are welcome to participate with adult supervision. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

essex open Gym: See November 4.

Little yogis: See November 10.

shelburne open Gym: See November 4, 10 a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m.

Tots yoga: See November 10.

Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

essex drop-in story Time: See November 10. intergenerational dessert Book discussion: Lit lovers gather for a good read-and-rant session, complete with something sweet. Grades 6 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

movies

movie day at the Library: Film buffs catch a flick on the big screen. Call for film title. Snacks provided. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

music

music for Preschoolers: See November 6, 11 a.m.

25 TUESDAY

arts & crafts

Build it day!: Construction workers of all ages explore the endless possibilities of a cardboard box. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

creative Tuesdays: See November 4.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal yoga: See November 4. shelburne Prenatal yoga: See November 4.

Games

chess club: Game players have fun with the library's sets. All ages, but children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Health & Fitness

essex open Gym: See November 4.

shelburne open Gym: See November 4.

Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

Gaming For Teens & adults: See November 4. Read to a dog: See November 4.

★

★

25 TUESDAY (CONTINUED)

Music

Children's Sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See November 4.

Kids Music with Raphael: See November 4. Music With Mr. Chris: See November 4.

Nature & Science

ECHO Story Explorers: In November: Birds are migrating and there's a chill in the air — so winter must be coming. Little scientists explore the seasonal shift. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for members and children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

Educational Snake Program: Reptile lovers are wowed by an up-close-and-personal visit from scaled slitherers. Milton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

26 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

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

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: Families make holiday memories as they watch candy makers in action, or they can get in on the fun and make twisted treats of their own. Preregister to participate. Laughing Moon Chocolates, Stowe, 11 a.m. Free to watch. $6 person to make your own. Info, 253-9591.

Toddler Time Art Class: See November 5.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See November 5.

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

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See November 4.

Shelburne Open Gym: See November 4, noon.

Williston Open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

Creative Writing Club: See November 5.

Story Times

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

Northfield Children’s Story Time: Brown Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 485-4621. St. Albans Story Hour: St. Albans Free Library, Mondays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

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

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

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

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

TUESDAY

Alburgh Story Hour: See Monday.

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

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

Essex Junction Baby & Toddler Story Time: Brownell Library, Nov. 4, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Essex Junction Preschool Story Time: Brownell Library, Nov. 4, 10-10:45 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6956.

Georgia Pajama Story Time: Georgia Public Library, third Tuesday of every month, 6:307:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-4643.

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

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

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

Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: CarpenterCarse Library, first and third Tuesday of every month, 9:30 a.m. and 9:30-10 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

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

Montpelier Story Time: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 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 Fall Story Time: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

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

WEDNESDAY

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

Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Warren Preschool Story & Enrichment

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

THURSDAY

Colchester Preschool Story Time: See Monday.

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

Fairfax PJ Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, Nov. 6, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Northfield Children's Story Time: See Monday.

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

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

St. Albans Story Hour: See Monday.

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

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

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

FRIDAY

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

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

Essex Junction Drop-In Story Time: Brownell Library, Nov. 14, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

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

Fletcher Story Time: Fletcher Memorial Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 228-8921.

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

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

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

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

Music

Preschool Music With Derek: See November 5. Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See November 5.

27 THURSDAY

Happy Thanksgiving!

28 FRIDAY

Arts & Crafts

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See November 26. Family Wheel Drop-In: See November 7.

Montpelier Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

South Burlington Story Time Adventures: South Burlington Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7539.

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

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

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

SATURDAY

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

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

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

South Burlington Story Time: See Wednesday.

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

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

SUNDAY

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

28 FRIDAY, P.44

REAL FUN!

Vermont Skating Academy

VISIT

A Basic Skills Skating Badge Program at the Essex Skating Facility

Skating Director, Jillian Frascoia

Our programs are open to children of all ages.

Registration Schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 17 6:00-7:00 p.m.

11 Week Session

Children’s Lessons

Wed., Thur. & Fri. Adult Lessons, Sun. 5:45 - 6:45 pm

Ice skate rentals available 878-1394

essexrink.com

Nov caleNdar

Gift making for Kids: Parents drop of their littles ages 5-12 for an artsy presentmaking session. ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $30 per child; half price for siblings. Info, oneartscollective@gmail.com.

Education

indigenous Peoples movie: See November 8.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See November 4. shelburne open Gym: See November 4, noon, 2 & 6 p.m. Williston open Gym: See November 4.

Library & Books

Early Bird math: See November 7.

music

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

music With derek: See November 7.

Nature & science

Fossils: Evidence of the Past: Youth sleuths clue into the origins of preserved remains. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

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

Robins Nest Nature Playgroup: See November 7.

Theater

Health & Fitness

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

Library & Books

meet Llama Llama: Kids meet the lovable long-necked character from Vermont author Anna Dewdney's popular series, hear stories, create crafts, and enjoy face painting and buttered noodles. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

Nature & science

Bird-monitoring Walk: Eagle-eyed participants bring binoculars to search the museum's property for fluttering feathers. Best for adults and older children. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 8-9:45 a.m. Donations welcome; preregister. Info, 434-2167.

color mixing: Mini mixologists blend primary colors into brand-new hues. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200. EcHo story Explorers: in November: See November 25.

my sky: See November 8.

Who sank the Boat?: See November 8.

Theater

saturday drama club: See November 8.

30 SUNDAY

Arts & crafts

candy-cane-making demo: See November 26.

Baby & maternity

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

dance

'The Nutcracker': See November 29, 1 p.m.

Dr. Christine Murray and Dr. Peter Casson are pleased to announce the opening of Northeastern Reproductive Medicine.

(802) 655-8888 / www.nrmvt.com

The Golden dragon Acrobats: Acrobatics, traditional dance and lavish costumes come together for this spectacular show celebrating the best of a 27 century-old Chinese Royal Tradition. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 3 & 7 p.m. $20-52; 25% discount for Family 4-Pack. Info, 760-4634. (See spotlight, page 27.)

29 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

candy-cane-making demo: See November 26, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Kids craft: Reindeer ornaments: A light bulb shape is decorated with paint and pipe cleaners to create a mini Rudolph. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5 per child. Info, 862-0646.

saturday Kids drop-in craft class: See November 8.

dance

'The Nutcracker': Young dancers from the Albany Berkshire Ballet visit the Land of Sweets in this holiday classic. All ages. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 3 & 7 p.m. $19-41. Info, 863-5966.

Health & Fitness

Essex sunday open Gym: See November 9.

Nature & science

Kitchen chemistry: See November 15, 11 a.m. my sky: See November 8.

skulls: Neophyte naturalists explore skeletal remains of local wildlife. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for children under 2. Info, 649-2200. K

Home Bakery

ThinK iT’s hard to keep your kitchen tidy? Try running a bakedgoods business out of it.

Shelburne friends Juanita Galloway and Anne Marcoe own Good Comida, a home bakery specializing in Colombian-style cheesecake and chocolate-dipped confections made with locally sourced ingredients. They have five kids, ages 2 to 10, between them.

Kids:

Two to three days a week, while the older children are in school, and Galloway’s 2-year-old son, Theo, is

playing or napping, the pair bakes and tests recipes — including a light and silky cheesecake that Galloway’s mom used to bake in Bogotá and Marcoe’s chocolatedipped peanut-butter-ball

“buckeyes” — in Galloway’s home-bakery-certified kitchen. They deliver their delicacies to Healthy Living Market & Café, City Market and Shelburne Supermarket.

When the kids get home from school, Galloway and Marcoe transfer the cooling cakes — usually 12 to 14

each week — from the kitchen counter into the refrigerator and transition back to mom mode.

Establishing boundaries between family and work can be challenging, the women agree. “It’s really hard to turn off our brains,” Galloway says. Strategizing via text message in the evenings and bookkeeping on Sundays when the husbands can watch the kids allow Good Comida to keep on cooking even when school’s out.

But taste testing is a family affair, to the delight of Galloway’s 6-year-old son. “Every single day when Henry gets home,” she said, “he asks if there’s cheesecake for dessert.” K

• Good Comida is one of 181 licensed home bakeries in the state, according to the vermont department of health. in preparation for a required visit from a food inspector, Galloway says, “i literally spent the entire month cleaning my kitchen from top to bottom.”

• in the early months of the business, Galloway used her kitchen fridge to store cakes and perishable ingredients. when it became overcrowded, she bought a second fridge solely for Good Comida, which she keeps in the garage. she stores nonperishable ingredients in large tubs in the kitchen pantry.

• Galloway and marcoe use regular-size kitchenaid mixers and food processors to prep ingredients. by law, home bakeries are not allowed to have industrial equipment.

mom: Juanita Galloway

theo and henry Galloway, 2 and 6

Juanita Galloway in her kitchen with business partner anne Marcoe and their five kids, (bottom to top) Claire Marcoe, theo Galloway, Georgia Marcoe, Henry Marcoe and Henry Galloway.

PUZZLE PAGE

Puzzles4Kids

Riddle Search — AUTUMN

Look up, down and diagonally, both forward and backward, to find every word on the list. Circle each one as you find it. When all the words are circled, take the UNUSED letters and write them on the blanks below. Go from left to right and top to bottom to find the answer to this riddle: What did one autumn leaf say to the other? APPLES

GRAND-PRIZE WINNER

CLARA lives in Waitsfield and turns 5 on November 25. She adores playing outside, being silly with her older brother, collecting flowers and creating art with lots of glitter.

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

Congratulations to these November Birthday Club winners! Join the Club!

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

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

Ignazio, Cariah and Jack each win a player pass.

IGNAZIO lives in St. Albans and turns 9 on November 14. He can often be found working on a new LEGO creation or with his nose in a book. He loves spending time in museums and being goofy with his friends.

BY HELENA HOVANEC

CARIAH lives in Middlesex and turns 8 on November 17. She loves cooking, reading, raising bunnies, making clay creations and climbing her apple tree.

MINI-GOLF • GIANT PLAY STRUCTURE PIZZA • CAKES • LASER TAG ARCADE • BATTING CAGES BIRTHDAY CROWN OR TIARA

Riddle Answer:

JACK lives in Lincoln and turns 9 on November 29. He spends lots of time with his two brothers playing outside and riding bikes.

Joel Addison Hartley Ellis

1830 - 1888 Inventor of the Jointed Doll

A year later, he began working in a bookshop, spending his spare time reading technical books and brushing up on his mechanic skills. He got his first patent at age 18 for a “steam excavating machine” that lifted rock and soil.

His next invention was inspired by watching his four children play. Most early dolls were simple, made of cornhusks, cloth or wood, with no moving parts. Ellis noticed that his kids liked to prop theirs into a sitting position to “feed” them.

In 1858, he opened a Springfield toy factory, which manufactured doll carriages, and in 1872, he began creating the first jointed dolls in North America. Their 18-inch bodies, made of local maple, had bendable hips, shoulders, arms and legs.

His workers painted the dolls to give them hair and facial features. They were wrapped in soft paper and sold by the dozen for $13.50.

A later,yearEllis sold his movedmachinerydoll-makingand to New Jersey, where he became a ceramics manufacturer until his death in 1888. But Springfield mechanics continued to make his jointed dolls and many doll makers still admire him today.

Joel Addison Hartley Ellis was born in 1830 in Barnet. He moved in with an uncle in Springfield when he was 14, after his mother died.

By the age of 28, Ellis owned a factory that manufactured a splint basket — a woven rectan- gular container — that he himself.designed

COLORING CONTEST!

Three winners will receive $25 gift cards to Creative Habitat and free framing of their artwork for its Kids Gallery, located at the store on 555 Shelburne Road in Burlington. Winning artists can pick up their framed work to display at home any time after December 1.

Send Kids VT your work of art by November 15. Be sure to include the info at right with your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 5 and younger, (2) ages 6-8 and (3) ages 9-12. Winners will be named in the December/ January issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to KidsVT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.

When i Was nominaTed To hosT my extended family’s Thanksgiving this year, I felt conflicted. Having 25 to 35 people at my house for what’s expected to be the best meal of the year is a giant responsibility. But it’s one I’ve been eagerly anticipating since I was a kid.

My mom is one of five siblings. To accommodate so many relatives, we’ve never celebrated on the actual holiday. Thanksgiving dinner always takes place on the Saturday after the last Thursday in November. It’s the only day of the year when all of my maternal aunts, uncles and cousins get together. Growing up, I looked forward to Thanksgiving Saturday all year long.

I vividly remember the sweetand-savory aroma of my aunt’s tourtière, the yams with marshmallows, the buttery-smooth feeling of the vinyl-topped card table that served as the kids’ table, and my Uncle Jim’s boisterous laughter. Thanksgiving Saturday felt like one of the longest days of the year — so much time to play, eat and then eat again the moment I felt a little bit hungry.

When I reached junior high, I recognized that our gathering was also an opportunity to impress the grown-ups with my poise and teenage accomplishments. Between the food, the playtime and the attention, those Saturdays filled me up in every way.

I never thought about how it all came together, never wondered who made which dish or how the event was organized. The grown-ups never seemed stressed or worried; everything just worked. Like magic.

Hosting privileges rotate annually among family members. As a young adult, I lived in tiny New York City apartments, so until I moved to Vermont four years ago, I was never a candidate.

Now I have a big blue house on a hill in Williston, which I chose, in part, for its Thanksgiving suitability. You’d think I’d be excited to finally live out my dream of hosting. Instead, I hesitated.

I’m 37 years old. I’ve been married for nine years and we have two children. Somehow, none of these things have made me feel like an adult the way

preparing for this meal has. It’s like some sort of official recognition from the actual adults in my family that I’ve joined their ranks.

But I like being catered to.

And since I became a parent six years ago, this special occasion is another event at which I feel splintered, unable to participate fully in a meaningful discussion without having to chase my kid off the stairs or break up a fight over so-and-so’s thingamajig.

I end up devoting my energy to my kids at these gatherings, and I’ve yet to contribute so much as a batch of cookies. So when I was tapped to host, I wondered how I would successfully manage the entire meal. I don’t even cook. And my husband, I recently learned, will be away for work until Thanksgiving Day.

After freaking out, I called my mom to pass the buck to her. But instead of indulging my childish tantrum, she reminded me that the host is only responsible for cooking the turkey and the mashed potatoes.

“Relax,” she said. “Nobody is asking you to do this on your own.”

And then it dawned on me: That’s how this magnificent feast has always come together. Nobody in the history of our Thanksgiving celebration has ever been expected to pull it off alone.

Being a grown-up, it turns out, means being wise enough to rely on others for help.

My aunts will bring the green-bean casserole, the roasted squash and, of course, the tourtière. They will bake the apple and pumpkin pies, Mom-Mom’s crescent rolls, and the gone-before-you-can-grab-one seven-layer bars.

My parents will arrive a day early to help clean the house, set up a couple of giant tables and, most helpful of all, take care of my kids.

So bring it on, November! I’m ready to embrace my official grown-up status. And I’m excited to welcome my family into my home, to fill them up and to live out a childhood dream — in all of my grown-up glory. K

I don’t even cook. And my husband, I recently learned, will be away for work until Thanksgiving Day.

a ngela a rsenaulT