VOL.18 NO.11/12
FAMILY
Families
Tips for teaching kids to ski
Publisher Colby Roberts colby@kidsvt.com ext. 77
Executive Editor Cathy Resmer cathy@kidsvt.com ext. 74
Creative Director Don Eggert don@kidsvt.com ext. 71
Managing Editor Kate Laddison kate@kidsvt.com ext. 73
Calendar Writer Maryellen Apelquist maryellen@kidsvt.com ext. 78
Account Executive Rhonda Forcier rhonda@kidsvt.com ext. 75
Account Executive Kristi Batchelder kristi@kidsvt.com ext. 72
Marketing & Events Director Judy Beaulac judy@kidsvt.com ext. 76
P.O. Box 1184 Burlington, VT 05402
802-985-5482 kidsvt.com
• Published 11x per year.
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Learning to ski at Okemo Resort in Ludlow, Vermont.
Photo by Justin Cash.
Copy Editors/Godparents Pamela Polston
Paula Routly
Proofreaders Meredith Coeyman
Kate O’Neill
Production Manager Justin Gonyea
Designers Celia Hazard
Andrew Sawtell
Rev. Diane Sullivan
Circulation Manager Steve Hadeka
Deputy Web Editor Tyler Machado
Office Manager Cheryl Brownell
Contributing Writers: Stina Booth, Erik Esckilsen, Kristin Fletcher, Megan James, Sarah Tuff, Cindy Morgan, Ken Picard, Katrina Roberts
Photographers: Stina Booth, Justin Cash, Andy Duback, Matthew Thorsen, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur
Illustrators: Mo Oh, Rev. Diane Sullivan
IT MAY NOT seem so to others, but I think of New Year’s Eve as a family holiday. If you ignore the late hours and carousing, and focus on the event as a milestone marker, you’ll see what I mean.
New Year’s is all about turning the corner on the year, and parents do love to mark time. We celebrate all manner of firsts: first smile, first step, first tooth, first day of school. And we are constantly nostalgic for the past. I’ve kept a tiny pair of mud-encrusted Robeez that my son, Oliver, last wore as a 2-year-old digging in our garden. I can’t wash, trash or pass them along.
I’m fascinated by the last day/first day of the year. I love taking stock and thinking ahead. When you have kids, New Year’s is a great time to review and resolve. How’d your holidays go? Are you going to sit down for more family dinners? Spend fewer hours in front of the TV? Will you make time for a regular date night?
This New Year’s marks the first year of Seven Days parenting Kids VT. With a new look, the magazine has tackled topics as varied as religion, maternity manners, gifted education and drive-in movies over the past 12 months. Kids VT also launched a new website and revamped the online calendar this year. Our “Camp & School Fair” was a hit, and we made it to a Lake Monsters game, Burlington’s Kids Day, the Shelburne Farms Harvest Festival and other community events.
We’ve got big plans for the coming year, including projects and events with local organizations and regular content about financial literacy and childcare. My resolution: to find out what you think. Ultimately, Kids VT is your baby, too, and we want to know if we’re raising it right. Drop us a line sometime.
KATE LADDISON, MANAGING EDITOR kate@kidsvt.com
A Voltron-transforming camera. Two of the coolest machines in the world — Voltron, defender of the universe, and a 110-mm-cartridge film point-and-shoot camera — combined into a single device. I was mesmerized by its ability to change shape and take awesome still-life photos of my action figures and toy trucks. No doubt the impetus for a lifelong interest in photography.
ANDREW SAWTELL, DESIGNER
A turntable console with AM/FM radio when I was 10. It was the biggest present under the tree that year, ergo I WIN!
KRISTIN FLETCHER, WRITER
I got a skateboard one year, because I was going to be Michael J. Fox from Back to the Future and grab the backs of cars to get around town. (Never happened.)
STINA BOOTH, WRITER/
PHOTOGRAPHERIt’s a toss-up. Either my Easy Bake Oven or Baby Wet-n-Care. Baby was a great doll who presented weird spots on her bottom as soon as I fed her a bottle. As a young girl, feeding her was far more fun than changing diapers. My mom would demonstrate her amazing patience and help clean the doll again and again without (too) much complaint.
RHONDA FORCIER, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
My Raleigh three-speed. I was very specific about what I wanted: It had to be blue with whitewall tires. Lo and behold, Santa didn’t get the memo. The bike arrived with yellowwall tires! I spent all day in the garage, crying. That was the last bike my parents bought me. And I still have it!
PAULA ROUTLY, PUBLISHER
Bring it on, Jack Frost. Kids VT readers aren’t afraid to get outside and enjoy the winter weather. More than half the respondents in our poll said they prefer to play outdoors than to sit fireside.
56% Playing outdoors
Thanks for last month’s interactive coloring-contest submissions. More than ever before you added signs, thought bubbles, trees, animals, houses and threedimensional embellishments to your artwork. Keep up the good work.
LOVELY LINES
Kathryn Deibler, 10, Essex Junction
BEST BEES AND BUTTERFLIES
Kaila Sheltra, 5, Swanton
25% Indoor activities, such as watching a movie or reading
13% Vacationing somewhere warm
6% Something else
Count the kids splashing on the pages of this month’s issue and you could win a set of four free passes to the Pump House at Jay Peak Resort. Add up the kids, then tell us how many you found at kidsvt.com or by writing to us at Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402. We’ll choose winners from the correct responses among the entries. Enter by 5 p.m. on January 16 for a chance to win.
TOP TEXTURE, OUTSTANDING OUTLINES
Mae’Jeannette LaVallee, 10, Winooski OH, SO ORANGE!
Lainey Buckpitt, 4, St. Albans
BRINGING THE BLUE
Brayden Sylvester, 3, St. Albans
EDGY EDGES
Audrey Van Leuven, 4, St. Albans
PURPLE THAT POPS
Kyla Abair, 3, St. Albans
BEST TURKEY SHIRT
Vanessa Dykstra, 11, New Haven
THOUGHT-PROVOKING
THOUGHT BUBBLES
Brian Eustis, 9, Essex Junction
BEST INCORPORATION OF HER OWN NAME
Reese Staples, 8, Fairfax
SNOWY HILLS
Jayden White, 8, Bristol
POP POLKA DOTS
Casondra Dykstra, 9, New Haven
AHEAD OF HIS TIME
Dustin Magnan, 18 months, Swanton
P.S. Thanks to Sophie for the suggestion to incorporate a horse into the coloring contest!
“Cluck Taylor”
Samantha Aikman, 7, Richmond
“Purple Turkle”
Kyla Abair, 3, St. Albans
“Bock-Chicka Awesome!”
Casondra, 9, New Haven
“Gobble Doodle Do”
Emily Cuetop, 9, St. Albans
The winners of our three
gift
to Texas Roadhouse are…
Andrew’s wish for a Disney fairy tale experience came true! Andrew’s trip was absolutely amazing. He enjoyed many characters and fun activities. Andrew even performed in an Idol Show.
In fulfilling wishes, the Make-A-Wish Foundation® emphasizes not the illness, but the joy that a wish-cometrue can bring. The child’s immediate family is included in the wish experience so special, happy memories can be cherished by all. During a time that is often stressful, all
Haley’s wish came true on her twelfth birthday at Discovery Cove in Orlando Florida where she was able to meet and swim with the dolphins! She has many memories of her amazing encounter including this photo of a kiss from Roxy the Dolphin.
wishes are fulfilled carefree – all expenses are covered. Just like each wish child, each wish is unique. Wishes range from visiting the Walt Disney World® Resort to meeting a favorite celebrity to getting a computer. Just look at the faces to see the magic of a wish.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Vermont has granted nearly 600 wishes.
Wish referrals can be made by the wish child, a parent, legal guardian, or medical professional working with that child.
We grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.
In a new book by Vermont author Reeve Lindbergh, a quiet-loving cat escapes from his home and works his way across town to find his owner at the library, a purr-fect spot for HOMER, THE LIBRARY CAT. Lindbergh, who is the daughter of Charles Lindbergh and Anne Morrow Lindbergh, lives in the Northeast Kingdom. She got the idea for the book when a librarian’s tabby escaped from the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum. “The trials of Homer and his adventures across town were a topic for daily discussion as we continued to look for him,” says Lindbergh. Homer’s tour takes him down busy sidewalks, to the fire station and through the rail yard until he ends up at the library, where he shares his stories with the children there. Only a few lines of Reeve’s rhyming text grace each watercolor-illustrated page, which makes the book appealing for young readers who enjoy seeing and hearing a story develop. — K.L.
BY KATE LADDISON & CATHY RESMER
‘HOMER, THE LIBRARY CAT’: By Reeve Lindbergh, illustrations by Anne Wilsdorf, Candlewick Press, 32 pages,
Looking for a word game to engage the kids during the holiday drive to Grandma’s? Download SWAMP TALK, an app for the iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch, designed by Montpelier-based Tertl Studos. Described by one reviewer as “the freakishly addictive o spring of Scrabble and Tetris,” Swamp Talk invites players to make words using letters that drop, one at a time, from the top of the screen. The letters land above a frog on a lily pad, who croaks each time the player makes a word. The longer the word, the more points it’s worth. The newly created words disappear, making room for more letters. If the letters pile up, unused, they fall into the swamp, and the frog eventually jumps away. Game over. Tertl founder Chris Hancock has years of experience creating electronic educational tools, but Swamp Talk is his team’s first mobile game. Trust me: It won’t be their last. Swamp Talk is, in a word, A-W-E-S-O-M-E. — C.R.
SWAMP TALK: Download from the Apple App Store, $1.99. Recommended for players ages 10 and up.
A Warren family is brewing up a new line of teas for kids. Amy and Jesse Carst often drink tea and wanted to share the relaxing ritual with their children. Their tiny tea testers liked the idea, but not the taste. So the Carsts began blending ingredients that would be pleasing to young palates. After many in-home tasting sessions, they settled on three, each of which is named for a song: “A Little Night Music” smells like warm apple pie, “Le Boogie à Vélo” is vanilla mint, and the iced-tea mix “Barengeburi-Bubuland” is billed as “berry berry good.” All are ca eine-free and sweetened with stevia leaves. Although she’s not a musician, Amy Carst says she wants to instill a love of music and arts in her children, and the GROOVE TEA PROJECT helps. Ten percent of the profits from the Carst’s song-titled teas support music and arts programs around the globe. — K.L. GROOVE TEA PROJECT: Teas sold in tins containing 16 sachets, $12. Available online or at local stores including the Warren Store, Red Hen Bakery & Café in Middlesex, Homeport on Church Street in Burlington and Harvest Market in Stowe. Info, 4482789, groovetea.com.
Can’t wait nine months to see your baby?
Drop by BEFORE BIRTH BONDING in South Burlington for one of their 3- or 4-D ultrasounds. With a 3-D picture, features such as skin, eyebrows, noses and ears are visible in the still, four-color image. With 4-D, expectant parents watch a video of the ultrasound and see their baby’s real-time hiccups, kicks and thumb sucking. “It’s just so special that you get a glimpse of what your child looks like,” says Hollie Barclay, a maternity nurse at Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington who opened the franchise business with her husband in November. The ultrasounds are nondiagnostic and not covered by insurance. Barclay said the experience — watching him or her move while hearing the heart beat and blood woosh — establishes an early bond between parents and baby. Another service BBB o ers is a Sonostream, which allow family members separated by distance to watch a live, 4-D ultrasound via the internet. — K.L.
BEFORE BIRTH BONDING: Packages from $99 to $219. 4049 Williston Road, Suite 1, South Burlington. Info, 497-0872, beforebirthbonding.com.
No need to leave Vermont to play at an indoor water park. Jay Peak Resort’s new PUMP HOUSE opened in November with four translucent, colored fiberglass water slides, a wading pool, a whirlpool and surfing wave, all surrounded by a meandering river for inner-tube rides. Jay Peak is close to cornering the market on H20 with snowy ski hills, skating in the Ice Haus and now liquid entertainment in the water park. The retractable glass roof over the 50,000-squarefoot space lets in lots of light, and with 84 degree water, the Pump House is going to be the place to be come February. Adventurous kids who weigh more than 88 pounds can try the 60-foot free fall at the start of La Chute — the only indoor AquaLoop in the Western Hemisphere. Although the other slides also have height and weight minimums, even wee water lovers can have fun slipping down the minislides, plunging through pour-down from the big Jay Peak bucket or shooting some aqua hoops. — K.L.
JAY PEAK’S PUMP HOUSE: Day passes are $35 for adults and $25 for children ages 4-14; kids three and under get in free. Info, 988-2611, jaypeakresort.com.
KIDS EXPLORE THEIR WORLD THROUGH TASTE, TOUCH, SOUND AND SMELL — often, unfortunately, by stu ng things into their mouths, ears and noses. Especially during the holidays, floors tend to be littered with choking hazards, from runaway cranberries to Christmas tree ornaments.
It may be important to act quickly, advises Dr. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care. But that’s not always necessary. In some cases, parents — and their kids — can breathe easy knowing “This, too, shall pass.”
KIDS VT: What object are kids most likely to swallow?
LEWIS FIRST: About 30,000 children each year swallow coins. Usually kids between six months and four years of age are the leading culprits in swallowing things that are not necessarily nutritious but interesting to put into their mouths. The good news is, if something is the size of a quarter or smaller, more than 90 percent of the time it will get through the narrowest passage, which is the exit from the stomach, and pass onward and outward.
KVT: Do parents need to monitor the object as it moves though the body?
LF: Maybe one in 10 children who swallow something smaller than a quarter will have it get hung up in the
needs to be removed immediately at the hospital.
KVT: What can that do to the body?
LF: Combined with the chemicals inside the battery leaching out, the battery can destroy the lining of the esophagus, stomach and digestive system; cause perforations, infection and shock; and even be life threatening.
KVT: What about small magnets?
LF: When a child says he swallowed a magnet, you don’t know how many went down. Sometimes there are multiple magnets in small toys. So seek medical attention and get an X-ray and try to identify if there’s more than one magnet down there. If there are, those magnets need to be removed. They can stick to
ears. A child will know there’s something in their ear, and for parents, most kids aren’t going to be cooperative. The best thing parents can do if there’s something up a nose, in ears or swallowed is to talk to their doctor or seek emergency help so they can provide appropriate advice and possibly sedation, rather than having a child jump back while trying to remove a bead from the nose or ear and have it go farther inside.
KVT: Any advice for heading off problems before they occur?
esophagus or trachea. Normally in those cases the problem is not subtle: Your child will have di culty breathing, won’t be able to talk, may be gasping, their color changes from red to blue, and they’ll appear very panicked. That’s an emergency, and families need to seek immediate help. The rule of thumb is, if it’s anything but a disc battery and your child is asymptomatic, parents should wait at least a few hours before getting an X-ray, to let the object move through the stomach.
KVT: Why are disc or button batteries so problematic?
LF: When a disc battery lodges in the nose or food pipe, the battery presses against the moist walls of the esophagus or stomach generating a small current, which then causes erosion of the esophagus or stomach lining. That can begin within two hours. So the battery
each other through the wall of the bowel and paralyze the bowel, possibly leading to an obstruction, irritation, infection or other complications.
KVT: How can parents gauge the size of objects that are safe for small kids?
LF: If you’re giving an infant or toddler a toy and can’t find a small-parts tester in the store, you can use a toilet paper roll as a gauge: If the toy is small enough to pass through that roll, it’s probably too small for children under 4. Toys for infants and toddlers should be at least 1 3/4 inches in diameter and 2 1/2 inches in length.
KVT: What are some of the more unusual objects you’ve seen pass through kids?
LF: Safety pins and objects from workbenches, such as nails and screws. Sometimes insects can crawl inside
LF: Parents need to put their spare change in a piggy bank. When it comes to food, raw carrots, grapes, hot dogs or anything quarter-size or larger that can obstruct an airway should be cut into pieces no larger than a half inch to make them easier for kids to swallow and digest. Don’t rush your children when they eat and don’t let them run around with food in their mouths.
KVT: When kids swallow coins or other objects, do parents need to monitor their back end or listen for that telltale plunk in the toilet?
LF: They don’t. Once the object is past the stomach, which usually takes six to 12 hours, it’ll usually take anywhere from a few days to a week or two to come out. Keep in mind, there’s also a risk of your kids getting radiation they don’t need, so talk to your doctor first about when is the most appropriate time to get an X-ray to ensure the coin has moved onward. Our 911 system can instruct families on the fundamentals of the Heimlich maneuver. But most of the time, everything will come out fine in the end.
You can use a toilet paper roll as a gauge: If that toy is small enough to pass through that roll, it’s probably too small for children under 4.
BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE, but the Program Pool at the Burlington YMCA rarely drops below 84 degrees. It’s the winter equivalent of a day at the beach.
I recently brought my 9-monthold, Celia, to one of the Y’s infant and parent swim classes. It was our first trip to the Y, and we found the lobby bustling with daycare tra c and people headed to various classes.
Once signed in, we found the kid-friendly locker room, complete with low-set drinking fountains and short lockers. There was a line for the changing table, but plenty of bench space to get Celia tucked into her swim diaper.
About 10 other babies — and their parents — hopped right into the invitingly warm water to start splashing. After getting the kids into the water, the class worked through songs and circle dances that led up to encouraging kids to “jump” in, safely sliding from the pool’s edge to parents’ open arms.
Instructor Jess Lukas enthusiastically led the class through dances and
exercises to get the babies excited for swim time. Who knew there was a pool version of “Wheels on the Bus” where babies are the wipers swishing through the water?
Kids in the class ranged in age from 6 months to about 3 years, and Lukas gives lots of individual attention to help parents get babies of di erent ages paddling at their own
age. “It sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy activity,” says Jane Dunbar, who until recently was the Y’s director of communications. Once they’re confident in the pool, young swimmers may graduate to the Y’s Pike classes for kids ages 3 to 5.
You can energize the family during the Y’s Open Swim times, too, on weekdays, evenings and weekends. The times vary, so check the Y’s website for schedules.
Celia and I would happily swim and sing our way through this class again. It was fun, the time flew by, and Celia got a chance to socialize with other cool pool kids her age.
BOOK: The Lost Conspiracy, by Frances Hardinge
AGE RANGE: 12 and up
Demarais’ summary: Set on a tropical island with dramatic beaches and dormant volcanoes, this young-adult book features two sisters who are part of a shunned minority group. It turns out that they may also be part of the island’s oracle caste, “The Lost.” These individuals possess spirits with only a tenuous connection to their bodies, traveling disembodied to later report what they see and hear.
speed. Celia has spent time at the beach and had a few swim classes already, so she was happy and engaged by the other kids.
I didn’t think the class would be much of a workout for me, but I was surprised when, later that day, I found I was sore from all the squats and baby lifts in waist-high water.
Lukas’ sessions are designed to get babies used to the pool at a young
Infant & Parent Swim: Six to eight week sessions meet once a week. YMCA membership not required to register
COST: $60 with membership, $100 without
WHAT YOU NEED: Bathing suit, swim diaper, towel GET A SCHEDULE: www.gbymca.org
The sisters, Haithin and Arilou, are unknowingly drawn into a conspiracy. They have to unravel a complicated web of lies to save themselves.
Who it’s best for: Kids who like a mystery. This story involves a murder mystery with supernatural overtones.
Why parents will love it: It’s an intriguing read, even for adults. “Not everything is explained right away,” says Demarais, “and I had to keep turning pages to figure it out.”
“The Librarian Likes” features a different librarian and book each month. Got an idea for a future LL?
Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
THERE’S NOTHING LIKE SOUP on a chilly day. For lunch, it’s a tummy-warming alternative to the same-old-sandwich routine. Or serve it for dinner with grilled cheese sandwiches or salad and crusty bread.
Homemade soup is a cinch to make, especially colorful carrot soup that has the added bonus of using up any random root veggies left in the fridge. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this soup is economical, vitamin rich and creamy, without containing any dairy products.
CARROT
SERVES 4-6
Eddie Spaghetti
Made with marinara or butter.
$5 | add meatballs for $1.5
Grilled Cheese
Texas toast with cheddar & american cheese. Ser ved with a side of hand-cut fries. $5
Chicken Tenders
Free-range chicken tenders. Served with a side of hand-cut fries. $6
Hamburger or Cheeseburger
PT farms all-natural grass-fed beef. Ser ved with a side of hand-cut fries. $6.5
Personal Pie
Comes with cheese & choice of 1 topping. $6 | add additional toppings for $.75
Pizza Roll
Fresh baked dough wrapped with mozzarella, herbs & choice of pepperoni or broccoli. $6
1 large onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
4-5 cups low-sodium chicken stock
4-5 cups carrots, chopped into 1-inch chunks
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced (or more to taste)
1 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
salt and pepper
0:60
• Scrubbing the veggies
• Measuring ingredients
• Dumping ingredients into the soup pot
• Ladling soup into the blender or food processor, with an adult’s help
1. In a large, heavy-bottom soup pot over medium heat, sauté onion, celery and garlic in olive oil until soft and translucent.
2. Blend in flour and enough chicken stock to make a smooth paste.
3. Add the rest of the chicken stock, carrots, ginger and turmeric. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for about 30-45 minutes, until carrots are cooked through and soft.
5. Purée soup in small batches using a blender or food processor.
6. Return puréed soup to pot to reheat, adding more stock if a thinner soup is desired.
7. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
BREAKFAST IS THE IDEAL MEAL to eat out with children. It’s inexpensive, everyone can find something they like on the menu, and even mediocre breakfast foods can be improved with ketchup or maple syrup. The only potential downside to Saturday breakfast at a restaurant is waiting for a table with two hungry 9-year-olds.
That’s why we set out early for the Big Picture Theater and Café in Waitsfield.
“Do they have eggs Benedict?” my daughter asked me in the car. For her, eggs Benedict is the ne plus ultra of breakfast foods.
“No,” I told her, “but they do have doughnuts. And if you go for dinner, you can see a movie while you eat.”
“Then why aren’t we going for dinner?”
“Because then you can’t get the doughnuts.”
When we arrived at 8:45 a.m., the restaurant was almost empty, so we
chose a booth with a picture-window view of the mountains. By the time we left, the place was packed. I can only imagine what it’s like during ski season; Sugarbush and Mad River Glen are just up the road.
As soon as we sat down, we ordered a trio of the fresh, glazed doughnuts made daily by the Very Small Donut Company.
“It’s like a breakfast appetizer,” my son observed.
I only got one bite before the plate was empty. Licking sugar glaze o my fingers, I wished we had ordered six instead of three.
I took in the décor as I sipped my good, strong cup of co ee. I am a sucker for cute old-timey cafés like the Big Picture, places with mismatched chairs, tin signs advertising co ee for 5 cents, pies in the bakery case and heavy creamware co ee mugs. While the co ee, doughnuts and décor were everything I could ask
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AMENITIES: Three high chairs and two booster seats. No kids menu at breakfast, but a large á la carte section for smaller eaters. On Fridays, the Big Picture Theater and Café shows old cartoons during lunch in the cinema lobby.
OUR BILL FOR FOUR: $51.26, including tip.
for, our meals were less impressive. The pancakes and French toast were average, but improved by a liberal dosing of Vermont maple syrup. My daughter, denied her eggs Benedict, was further disappointed when her over-easy eggs arrived over hard. Our server took them back and, within a few minutes, a very apologetic shortorder cook brought her new ones.
My son loved every bite of his
breakfast. He inhaled his scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes and bacon, and then moved on to my pancakes. He must have run out of room at some point, because I later found a napkinwrapped sausage link stu ed in my purse. The Big Picture was worth the early wake-up, but next time I think we’ll go for dinner and a movie. Let’s hope the popcorn is as good as the doughnuts.
“Out to Eat” is a monthly family-friendly restaurant review. Where should we eat next? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com. Cindy Morgan is a freelance writer who recently moved with her family from California to Shelburne.JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR
I later found a napkin-wrapped sausage link stuffed in my purse.
Children: sons Abram, 17, Wilson, 12, and Leo, 10; daughter Olive, 15
The things that mean most to me are the traditions — religious, cultural and family — that help connect me to things that I value most. We do a lot of things at the end of the year. Oh, 50 percent of the time I’m derided for these things, but if I were to skip one, my family would be disappointed. Every year I start a bonfire on the 21st of December (the solstice). Some years I’m out there in the wet and the cold, and the fire won’t start, but the kids come out, and they’d feel bad if I didn’t build it. Every year I make a fruitcake. Even if they don’t eat it, they’d be terribly disappointed if I didn’t make one. We get a Christmas tree from Larry’s Tree Farm, and it has to be Larry’s Tree Farm. If somebody’s missing, we just have to wait until everybody can be together. Because we spend Christmas Day with my wife’s family in New Hampshire, we open gifts on New Year’s Day at home. No matter how many people we spend the holidays with, New Year’s Day is reserved for our family. There will be periods when the kids will be sometimes more and sometimes less enthusiastic about these things. Sticking with them year by year is important because they’ll get the importance of family. They’ll appreciate it in the end.
Children: son Miles, 12; stepson Cole, 8; stepdaughter Giovanna, 10; daughter Juliet, 7
The holidays mean the getting together of family, celebrating the importance of family and also the spirit of giving — celebrating each other and giving gifts to people you care about. I try to pass on that it’s not all about the getting. It’s about the giving, and it’s a time to reflect on the year. My mother, a Unitarian, celebrated Christmas in our home growing up, and I remember my father, who was Jewish, saying that he celebrated Santa Claus and the spirit of giving. I have said that to my kids. For me, it’s never been a religious holiday. It has been a family holiday. Sometimes we’ll try to get the kids to make presents for each other, and they enjoy that, so that’s not a hard sell. It’s kind of fun to have one day a year when the kids get showered with presents. It’s fun to see their excitement. As a parent, you enjoy seeing how happy they are, but you do have to be careful to balance that and not have that be an expectation.
Child: son Brendan, 4
I’m learning new meanings of the holidays with a 4-year-old around, rediscovering things like Santa Claus, Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph, and all the songs that go along with those things. He’s really excited, and it’s contagious. For an agnostic like me, who’s been almost opposed to the holidays for so many years, it’s kind of nice to have the spirit of Christmas back. We try to make it about Brendan and staying home and enjoying one another more than anything else. We’re definitely going along with Santa and stockings on Christmas morning. On the other hand, we try to make it not religious. For me as a kid, Christmas was quasi-religious. There were a lot of Jesus and angels around. [My son] certainly doesn’t get that. He doesn’t get the nativity. He doesn’t get church. But we fought the Santa Claus thing in year one, and, frankly, there’s no winning that battle. The other thing I’ve learned is that it’s a lot easier to sit back and let it happen than get glum about it and boo-hoo the commercialism.
Children: daughter Violet, 8; son Sammy, 6
Because my wife and I are both freelancers, we don’t have a regular schedule and vacations and stu . So what we try to do, between Christmas and New Year’s, is to really take that time o and ideally not go anywhere. Being Jewish helps with that, so not having the expectations of doing a lot of family stu with grandparents and other family members makes it a really good time for us just to be together and actually relax and do fun things. On Christmas Day, we try to go someplace with a pool for the kids and maybe a hot tub for us. It’s a special, quiet day to do something fun with the kids that’s luxurious and relaxing. That’s how we start it o , and then we do all the regular stu that Vermonters like to do during the holiday period. We have a lot of non-Jewish friends, and they’ll often invite us to di erent celebrations, which is great. Our kids definitely have a sense of their own identity, and I think they’re curious and interested in what all the kids celebrating Christmas are doing.
— INTERVIEWS COMPILED BY ERIK
ESCKILSEN
For an agnostic like me, who’s been almost opposed to the holidays for so many years, it’s kind of nice to have the spirit of Christmas back.
BY MEGAN JAMES
All standup requires is paper, a pencil and a sense of humor. But for younger hams who want to try out some basic comedic theater, Spark Arts is offering some workshops that might prepare them for the stand-up spotlight.
In one, 8- to 12-year-olds brush up their basic theater skills by creating their own version of a well-known fairy tale and performing it for their parents.
In another, also for kids 8 to 12, Hartswick leads short-form improv games, which teach them how to stay in character, listen to each other and develop comedic timing.
Spark Arts, 180 Flynn Avenue, Burlington Info, 373-4703, facebook.com/sparkartsvt
Starting in January, he’ll begin teaching kids age 12 to 17 the art of standup comedy at Spark Arts, the Burlington performing-arts studio he recently opened with his wife, Natalie Miller. In addition to comedy classes, the pair will o er voice lessons, acting classes, improv nights and more.
Hartswick first tried standup three years ago at a Flynn Center class taught by local comedian Josie Leavitt. “I was interested, but totally terrified to try it,” he says, “because I wasn’t hiding behind a costume or a musical instrument.”
He loved it. Since then, Hartswick has worked to start a Burlington standup scene, and his 13-year-old daughter has caught snippets of his act. “She’s snarky and sarcastic,” Hartswick says with pride. And she’s heard enough of (the cleaner parts of) her dad’s routine to catch the comedy bug.
NATHAN HARTSWICK HAS A SIMPLE list of instructions for the kids in his forthcoming standup comedy class: “Support each other. Laugh if it’s funny. Be nice if it’s not. Do your homework.”
What the class isn’t about: “Criticizing each other’s material. That’s my job,” he writes in the overview he distributes to students at the beginning of each course.
It’s a joke, of course. What Hartswick actually o ers kids in class is “pointed feedback,” such as “Add a pause here,” or “Here’s where I thought that joke was going…” To Hartswick, it’s all about encouraging kids to find their own voice.
O er an adult the opportunity to try standup comedy, and most are likely to break into a cold sweat. Kids are another story — especially the hammy, sarcastic types.
Hartswick was one of those. He grew up on the Northeast Kingdom barn-turned-stage where his mother, Nancy Hartswick, ran the Vermont Children’s Theater. His trumpeter sister, Jennifer, now plays with Trey Anastasio. Thirty-four-year-old Nathan is one of Burlington’s most prominent standup comics.
When she begged him to teach her to put on her own shows, he caved; he loved the idea of introducing kids to standup. Hartswick has taught kids improv comedy before, and he’s taught adults standup, but this course will be his first foray into standup for kids.
Anybody can be a good comic, Hartswick believes. All you need to do is “change the way you look at stu ,” he says. It helps to be observant, especially of conflict, and to write succinctly. In the class, kids will write and perform their own material in front of each other.
Miller adds that standup can be a great equalizer. “Some kids might not think they can sing or play an instrument,” she says. “But they can talk about anything.” And anything can be funny, if you look at it through the right lens.
Standing up in front of other people teaches kids important life skills, too, such as public speaking, confidence and finding the humor in everyday life — even when nobody else laughs. “We all fail every day of our lives as adults,” says Hartswick. “It’s really important that [kids] get a chance to fail safely.”
For both Hartswick and Miller, working with the “wallflower kids” is their favorite. “To see them come out of their shells…” says Hartswick. “That’s why I do what I do.”
“The Art of...” spotlights creative skills that enrich kids’ lives. Got a class or teacher to recommend? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com. Megan James is a staff writer at Seven Days.
FAMILIES TURN TO ADOPTION
for many reasons. Some have hit a biological barrier: trouble getting pregnant or carrying a baby to term. Others want to help a child in need or to grow their own family tree in a di erent way.
Whatever the motivation, it’s harder to adopt a child today than it was years ago. Access to family planning services and the destigmatization of single motherhood have resulted in fewer U.S.-born infants available for adoption. And fears of fraud and human tra cking have led some foreign countries to discontinue the practice; international adoptions in the U.S. have declined to their lowest rate since 1994. Vermonters adopted 30 kids from other countries last year, compared to 86 a decade ago.
The result: More families are exploring the foster-to-adopt option, which allows children whose birth parents are unable or unfit to care for them to become part of a more functional family. Here in Vermont, an award-winning public-private partnership called Project Family facilitates the process, with a special emphasis on kids formerly considered “unadoptable.”
Foster-care adoption has a lot to recommend it: It’s local, cost-e ective and can strengthen communities in which some children lack parental love and guidance. But there are risks involved, too. Children in the system
might have social, behavioral or developmental problems. And until birth families’ parental rights have been legally terminated, they have the right to change their minds and reclaim a child on track for adoption. That can be heartbreaking for families who have grown attached to children they had hoped to adopt.
Beth Truzansky and her partner Tracy have experienced all the variations on the foster-to-adopt theme. They signed up to be foster parents, knowing the risks involved, and were matched with their foster daughter, April, whom they eventually adopted.
First, though, they had to endure a torturous process during which her biological mother’s parental rights were terminated. They were in the midst of that ordeal when another fostering opportunity came their way: a twoweek-old baby boy, Isaac.
The Truzanskys brought the infant home and spent six months feeding, diapering and bonding with him. Although Beth and Tracy knew there was a chance Isaac might go back to his birth family, “it was heart wrenching” when it happened, Beth says. Preschooler April still draws a baby brother when asked to illustrate her family tree.
Tracy was still grieving when she called the caseworker one day, to ask about Isaac’s welfare. Although the caseworker had promised herself she wouldn’t, she told Tracy about another child. The Truzanskys jumped at the chance to foster a second daughter.
“We had just deconstructed the crib and here we were, four hours later, putting it back together again,” says Beth. Were they ready?
“It felt like she was meant to be there,” she says of the little girl, whose adoption proceeded much more quickly than April’s because her parents voluntarily relinquished their rights to claim her.
“It’s been a phenomenal journey,” says Beth.
Vermont wasn’t always at the forefront of foster-child adoption. In 1999, the state had 396 kids in state custody, most of them in foster care, who were legally available for adoption. Meanwhile, the Lund Family Center — Vermont’s oldest non-profit adoption agency, which is also a residential treatment facility for pregnant women — was importing foster children from other states to meet the instate demand for adoptable children.
Founded in 1893 as a “Home for Friendless Women,” the Burlington-based LFC offers residential counseling for pregnant mothers as well as extensive adoption services. It partners with the Vermont Department for Children and Families on the state’s awardwinning Project Family program. Info, 864 7467, lundfamilycenter.org
A licensed, private adoption agency, Monkton-based Angel’s Haven provides homestudy services in Vermont.
Info, 453-5450, angelshaven.org
This nonprofit organization meets regularly with board members from all over Vermont to ensure adoptive and foster families have access to resources such as education training. It supports these families through recognition programs and legislative advocacy.
Info, 864-7467, vfafa.org/index.html
Vermont-based, licensed Friends in Adoption offers free information to pregnant women and couples, connects people trying to adopt with potential adoptees, and performs home studies. Info, 800-982-3678, friendsinadoption.org
The Vermont Adoption Act of 1996 established a registry to make it easier for adoptees, adoptive and birth families to access information about Vermont adoptions. Discoverable information includes non-identifying facts as well as a noncertified copy of the adoptee’s original birth certificate.
Info, 241-2122, dcf.vermont.gov/fsd/ vermont_adoption_registry
BY KATE LADDISON
Many agencies offer services for people thinking about adoption — from pregnant mothers to prospective adoptive families. Agencies must be licensed to handle the associated legal proceedings required in Vermont, but many organizations offer other services, such as pre- and post-adoption counseling, foster-child advocacy, and “home studies” — the process by which experts determine whether a family is properly equipped to adopt a child. Here is a list of Vermont-specific adoption resources.
Based in Waltham, Mass., with an office in Monkton, Wide Horizons is an adoption agency that facilitates both international and domestic adoptions. Info, 453-2581, whfc.org
This non-profit agency helps people with disabilities, but some of its programs support foster, birth and kinship parents struggling with children who have suffered physical and emotional abuse. Easter Seals also provides respite and advocacy services for adoptive families when school issues arise.
Info, 223-4744, vt.easterseals.com
Part of the Marylandbased Annie E. Casey Foundation, Casey Family Services’ Vermont division connects foster families with children and offers adoption and postadoption services.
Info, 655-6688, caseyfamilyservices.org
A part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Burlington, Vermont, Catholic Charities provides post-adoption services related to search and reunion issues.
Info, 658-6110, 773-3379, vermontcatholic.org/index.php
This licensed, private adoption agency is national but has an office in Vergennes. A Christian mission directs its work with kids and families around the world.
Info, 877-6500, bethany.org
This private, Winooskibased nonprofit organization, founded in 1919, provides postadoption support services and counseling.
Info, 655-0006, vtcas.org
Comprised of agencies and organizations around the state, this group meets regularly to share information about and improve Vermont’s adoption processes.
Info, 985-0158, vtadoption.org
That was the reaction of Diane Dexter, the adoption chief at Vermont’s Department for Children and Families (DCF), during a Vermont Adoption Consortium meeting more than 10 years ago.
“Look at this list!” she exclaimed, holding up a report showing nearly 400 children in need.
The list was news to Wanda Audette, the Lund Family Center’s director of adoption services. According to the state, she told Dexter, no Vermont children were available.
Audette and Dexter, both adoptive parents themselves, recognized a major problem. No one had connected the dots between Vermont families looking to adopt children — even older children — and Vermont children in desperate need of families. The next spring, they pulled together a team and applied for a federal grant to build a solution.
From that three-year grant came Project Family, a partnership between DCF and Lund that changed the way the state handles adoptions.
DCF administers many state services, such as child support and protection, foodstamp programs, foster programs and adoption.
but “change is hard,” Audette notes, especially when you’re dealing with a bureaucracy. Lund’s first step was to establish a relationship with the DCF workers. It was all about persistence, she says.
Audette and the Project Family staff began trekking to the 12 regional DCF offices around the state, offering their services. Some Project Family staff work alongside DCF personnel, helping to answer phones or attend meetings. Others drop in as “visitors” to get updates and help with specific challenges. Whatever works.
Wanda Audette, ThePreviously, a DCF caseworker would be assigned to a child when he or she came into state custody. Then, another DCF staffer — an adoption social worker — would take over the case to find a family, begin the adoption process and then go to court to make it official.
In the new system, Project FamilyLund Center staff review children’s cases as soon as they enter the foster system. DCF controls the front end of the process, while the Lund Center helps with the back end. The goal is to seek reunification with the birth family while developing an alternate adoption plan.
In short, Project Family pairs the DCF’s experience in caring for abused and neglected children with Lund’s adoption expertise.
It may not sound revolutionary,
A foster family can’t accommodate a child because the house is too small? Project Family finds a builder to donate an addition. A child being adopted by an out-of-state family would be re-traumatized by returning to Vermont for a court hearing? Project Family facilitates a way to hold the adoption proceedings using Skype. When Project Family’s federal grant ran out, the state picked up the program — both an acknowledgement of its success and a key to its sustainability. In October, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded Dexter and Audette a national Adoption Excellence Award, citing several measurable accomplishments. Among them, Project Family has shortened the average length of time between a child’s entry into state custody and adoption, from four years to less than two. Studies show the longer a child spends in temporary care, the greater the negative impact on his or her development.
Contributing to that time frame is the waiting period between termination of parental rights and adoption. Project Family has got it down from 26 months to between four and six. Dexter’s goal: 90 days. “The state makes a lousy parent,” she says.
Another surprising statistic: Since its inception, Project Family has found adoptive homes for 329 older youths who, due to their age and
You cannot fear where the children have come from
Lund Family center
circumstances, would previously have been deemed “unadoptable.”
Probate Court Judge Susan Fowler oversees a large percentage of Vermont adoptions each year from her bench in Chittenden County. Praising Project Family, she proclaims, “It was massive, what they did.”
The systemic changes Project Family has engendered aren’t all that’s changed in Vermont adoption. The Green Mountain state has steadily expanded the definition of “family” as it relates to adoption eligibility.
“We’ve been ahead of the curve in terms of allowing adoptions by good people regardless of their sexual orientation,” says Fowler, noting that Vermont is as progressive about adoption as it is about many social and political ideas.
The same goes for single or divorced
daycare for years before she decided she was ready to adopt. She and her husband have grandchildren the same age as the foster sisters they hope to make a permanent part of their family, just in time for Christmas — a 9-monthold and 2-year-old twins.
After her own children were grown, Thibault says, “I just didn’t feel like I was making that much of a difference anymore. I love the fact that I can help these kids.”
Before their birth mother relinquished her parental rights, Thibault maintained regular contact with her. That’s another huge trend in contemporary adoption: Experts see the birth family-adoptive family connection as a key to success, both for the family and the child.
adoptive parents, older families — and relatives. Where the court might have once avoided tapping family members to care for a niece, nephew or grandchild, there’s more appreciation now for “kinship care” — a fancy term for guardianship by extended family. All of the above have become more acceptable adoption options.
Lori Thibault raised her own biological family and ran a home-based
Thibault and her foster kids visited their birth mother and they shared photos and mementos. Their relationship was strong enough that the original mom waived her visitation rights during the Thibault summer vacation. The families kept in contact via twiceweekly calls.
“It’s a very emotional and painful thing to give away a child, no matter how convinced you are it’s the right thing to do,” Fowler says. “So to get the sense that these people will love the child, and to have some contact, is huge.”
It’s paying off for Thibault. She
retained the first names the birth mom gave her twins, but they didn’t have middle names, so she asked the woman for ideas. The mom’s suggestion to Thibault: “I have faith in you, so let’s go with that.” Faith.
This kind of interaction would not be conceivable — or possible, for that matter — 50 years ago. Vermont’s 1996 rewrite of state adoption law gives adoptees, adoptive parents and birth families greater access to information about adoptions taking place in Vermont.
More openness, agency collaborations and connecting birth parents with adoptive parents — the trends, as Fowler sees them, are challenging old stigmas. There’s a practical result, too: Only 8 percent of Vermont adoptions fail, compared to the national average of 15 percent.
As the Truzanksys learned, adopting a foster child is not all warm and fuzzy. Project Family’s “dual-track permanency planning” requires foster folks to be prepared for at least two scenarios.
“What we’ve asked them to do,” says Dexter, “is take a child in and love them as if they were their own, and then help them to go home to their own home. And when that’s not possible … we ask those people to step up and become that child’s ‘forever family.’”
While it may be tempting to condemn or avoid discussing an abusive or neglectful parent, both Dexter and Audette speak of the need to honor a child’s roots.
During training for adoptive families, attendees are taught to celebrate
the child’s past. “You cannot fear where the children have come from,” Audette says. She encourages families to talk to fostered or adoptive children about being thankful to their birth parents.
Why thank them? Audette tells adoptive parents to say: “They gave you what no one else could, the gift of life.”
As children grow, they naturally explore who they are, where they came from and who they will become. Kids who get the sense that they came from a bad place, a bad family, may see themselves as bad.
Tracey Lee braced herself for the worst when she and her husband went to pick up their soon-to-be-adopted son from his foster family. But she had reason to be hopeful. The little boy had the same name — Connor — they had in mind for the son they couldn’t conceive after C-section complications.
Like most adoptive parents, they called on their heads and hearts to conclude that their “constructed” family was meant to be after eight years of miscarriages.
But in recounting their first meeting with Connor, Lee tries hard to remember her doubts. Would he cling to his foster mom? Would he scream or cry? Should she have brought her 10-year-old son? Lee needn’t have worried. She says that when the door swung open, the two-year-old ran out with his boots on the wrong feet. He promptly threw himself into her husband’s arms, shouting “Daddy! You finally came!” K
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Thank you and Happy Holidays!
Come
us in
for Christmas trees, wreaths and toys. Snow tubing — weather permitting.
We
none of Northwestern to Brattleboro Memorial —was giving out tiny pairs of skis to newborn babies along with those pink-and-blue
But they might as well be.
Many Vermonters aim to get their children skiing as soon as biologically possible. However, most ski schools don’t accept kids in diapers. It can be a long, expensive, backbreaking trip to the ski resort.
Yeah, obviously. But even the fanciest ski resort
— with Elmo himself operating the heated carpet conveyor — is going to look like the DMZ when you have to schlep yourself, your gear, your child and your child’s gear across three parking lots, up four flights of stairs and over two football fields of snow before the skiing can begin.
BY SARAH TUFF
And some parents are reluctant to leave very young children alone on the slopes — even with a pro. “I felt that my daughter would have been really scared, at age 3, to ski with someone she didn’t know,” says Koran Cousino of Starksboro.
Employing Yankee frugality and determination, however, plenty of Green Mountain parents are teaching their children how to ski — maybe not before they walk, but at 2, 3 or 4. Here are some of the lessons they were willing to pass along.
So whether it’s your backyard, your driveway, a sledding hill or a ski resort, make sure there’s a short distance between the skiing area and shelter.
Cochran’s Ski Area in Richmond fits the bill. Michael WoodLewis taught his 4-year-old to ski there last winter. “We didn’t need much,” he says. “It was a great environment, on a great scale: a ordable and informal.”
Most Vermonters aim to get their children skiing as soon as biologically possible.
CONTINUED FROM P. 25
As in, hot chocolate. Leslie Dunn of Jericho kept a thermos of it nearby when she was teaching her kids to ski. A nearto-hand mug of Swiss Miss can save not only money, but also time: fewer trips inside to warm up. Many a ski instructor also swears by stu ng pockets with marshmallows — not for the cocoa, but as an incentive to keep kids skiing. It can also be gummy bears or stickers — just something that won’t melt when you’re sweating like a fry cook in July, even though it’s January and 10 below. Which brings us to…
“It sounds so stupid, but everybody has to be physically comfortable,” says Dunn. For the kids, that means extra long undershirts that will stay tucked in and prevent pants from filling up with snow. For the parents, it means you should probably wear a T-shirt under all that. When Olympic gold medalist Barbara Ann Cochran teaches parents how to teach their kids to ski, she warns them: “You’re going to get a good workout. Don’t
worry about the gym.” She’s right. You’ll be bending, lifting, squatting and, yes, sweating.
Bending over your child while he snowplows down the mountain is backbreaking. But watching him go downhill fast — toward the lift line — can be bone breaking. While leashes and harnesses may be a no-no in other realms, they’re OK on the hill. Dunn saved money by
using a simple rope as a harness. “I would pretend that they were the powerboat and I was the water-skier,” she says. “So I never had to stop them.”
You can apply the same advice to yourself. “I wanted my daughter to be brave and get everything immediately,” says Cousino. “Sometimes I had to step back and just let her figure things out for herself, with no instruction.” Cousino urges other parents to take frequent breaks, too. “It’s a lot of work to undress and dress again, but I got more out of my daughter when we went inside and had a little snack. It became a little routine for us, and she loved it.”
Eric Morris of Shelburne taught other people’s kids to ski at Beaver Creek, Colorado, for six years before going to work on his own. Alexandra and Jacob each hit the slopes at 3.
“One of the best ways to get your kids moving is to ski backward holding onto their tips,” he says. “Not good on the back.”
He recommends a $10 device to avoid
Bending over your child while he snowplows down the mountain is backbreaking.
Fifth grade is a pretty sweet time. Chances are your child has reached the double-digits and knows all about the Bill of Rights. One “right” unique to Vermont is a free winter of skiing at every resort in the state. Yep, that’s right. Free.
Ski Vermont’s Fifth Grade Passport Program provides coupons for free lift tickets and cross-country trail passes at participating resorts, good from December 1 to May 1. Just mail in an application, along with proof of your child’s fifth-grade status and a $10 processing fee, to Ski Vermont in Montpelier. Find more information, along with the application, at skivermont. com/events-and-deals/ program-passport.
a lot of pain — for you and your child — by keeping the tips of your child’s skis together. Known as an edgie wedgie, or easy wedge, it’s a short bungee cord with a tiny clamp on either end.
Set up an obstacle course of cones to teach turns; or scatter rubber ducks on the snow and suggest your child pick them up. You have to develop stopping skills to pull it o . The more fun and lighthearted, the better, according to Shelburne’s Rick Gibbs, who taught his 3-year-old Talia to ski two years ago at Stowe.
Barbara Ann Cochran agrees. “If you enjoy your children, you’ll enjoy teaching them how to ski,” she says. “Maybe not 100 percent of the time; it’s not easy, but it’s bonding.”
Let’s say your child has learned the basics. He can stop, turn, get back up when he falls and ride a lift. Now what?
“You can talk to a 6-year-old about turns, wedges, French fries, etc., until you’re blue in the face,” says Morris. “Or you can show them.”
The trick here is to secretly recruit other kids to do the teaching. “Kids really learn faster and better from other kids than adults; we’re just too tall and big,” explains Morris. “The best way to teach a kid to ski is to put them behind another kid slightly better than them for a few runs. Now that Alexandra can rip, I just have Jake follow her.”
Williston’s Heidi and Steve Willoughby are hardly ski fanatics. Though they grew up skiing, Heidi stopped when she was in fourth grade and her family moved to Florida. Steve gave it up when he moved to Minneapolis. But when the couple moved to Vermont, they got their kids to Cochran’s when they were 4 and 3. “Once the kids learned to ski, it was important to keep going,” they write in an email. “But we kept it short at first. Just a few hours with a nice break in the middle. We just get out and enjoy skiing regularly as a family … it’s an easier process if you start when your children are young.”
Likewise, Wood-Lewis is determined to have his whole family on snow not because one of them might be the next Ted Ligety or Lindsey Vonn, but because it provides active fun during Vermont’s long winters. “We want our kids to be culturally literate here in Vermont,” he says.
When all else fails? Enroll the kids in a traditional ski school. “Trying to teach Matthew to ski was a colossal failure,” says Catherine Collette of Shelburne, relaying stories of then-3-year-old Matthew falling off a carpet conveyor, and her husband, Andy, falling on Matthew as they tried to get off the chairlift.
She’s now signed up her son for lessons at Smugglers’ Notch. “This year, I’m letting a stranger do the dirty work.”
THE GREEKS AND ROMANS were among the first to bring evergreen boughs inside during the winter months — evidence that humans have long appreciated the many benefits of cut conifers. Harvesting your own boughs, wreaths or trees is a great family activity, provided everyone dresses warmly. Advance research on varieties guides the selection process: Fraser, balsam or spruce? A sled helps haul the greens — and the kids — out of the woods. Also, check with your local municipality or solid waste district for information about “treecycling” options after the holidays are over.
Anderson Tree Farm 1495 Mt. Philo Road, Charlotte 425-3048
Bakersfield Tree Farm Route 36, Bakersfield 827-3042
Balsam Acres
36 Elmore Road, Worcester 223-7028
Breezy Hill Acres
3325 Pine Hill Road, Newport 334-6585
Chapin Christmas Tree Farm 129 Chapin Road, Essex Junction 497-1698
Dave Russell’s Christmas Tree Farm
1248 Route 116, Starksboro 453-2208
Far View Tree Farm
1879 Bayley-Hazen Road, East Hardwick 563-2028
Fontaine Tree Farms 2029 Orton Road, Greensboro Bend 533-7195
Larry’s Tree Farm Route 108, Bakersfield 827-6123
Meadown Ridge Farm 18 Merritt Road, Middlesex 223-4258
Moffatts Tree Farm 1252 Wild Branch Road, Craftsbury 586-6900
Mount Vista Christmas Tree Farm Mount Vista Road, Underhill 878-4170
Murray Hill Farm 865 Guptil Road, Waterbury Center 244-6437
Northern Vermont Christmas Trees
766 Lapland Road, Waterville 644-2257
Nutcracker Tree Farm
510 Sperry Road, Cornwall 462-2366
Ober Hill Tree Farm 217 Tree Farm Road, Johnson 635-2100
Paines Christmas Trees 4904 Laporte Road, Morrisville 888-5632
Peter Lyon and Family 34 Jericho Road, Essex Junction 584-3020
Purinton Family Tree Farm 190 Pond Road, Huntington 434-4385
Quinlan Tree Farm 41 Amber Lane, Williston 878-8804
Red Sled Christmas Tree Farm 1731 Route 74 West, Shoreham 897-8031
Richmond Tree Farm 1898 Kenyon Road, Richmond 434-2651
Russell Dairy and Tree Farm 1248 Route 116, Starksboro 453-2208
Sharp Farm Cobble Hill, Milton 879-3507
Tester’s Vermont Christmas Trees 2317 Roaring Brook Road, Barton 525-3814
Trout Brook Tree Farm 33 Church Street, Bristol 453-3034
Upper Valley Tree Farm Upper Pleasant Valley Road, Jeffersonville 434-4762
Urie’s Tree Farm 1694 Old Stage Road, Williston 878-8066
Werner Tree Farm 429 Painter Road, Middlebury 388-7781
White’s Tree Farm 255 Jericho Road, Essex 899-4977
Woolsey’s Christmas Trees 206 Jordan Road, Charleston 723-4849
Yuletide Memories Maple Hill Road, Barton 754-9360
Zeno’s Tree Farm 5296 Route 116, Starksboro 453-2543
Due to our publishing schedule, events for December 1-5 were only published online.
Vermont Ballet Theater’s student dancers play snowflakes, angels, dolls and candy canes in Tchaikovsky’s which debuted in 1892 on a stage in St. Petersburg, Russia. Little ones are transported to the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy reigns. A great introduction to an old art form, the festive ballet is as much a part of the holiday as “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
and The Messiah
Saturday, December 17, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, December 18, 1 and 6:30 p.m. Flynn Center for the Performing Burlington. All ages. person. Ten percent children and seniors. Info, 878-2941, flynntix.org, vermontballettheater.org.
Standup Comedy for Teens
Arts, $21-$33
discount for
Who says standup comedy is just for adults? In this fun class, students will learn to “think like a comedian,” using stories from their lives to develop 3 minutes of material. Great for building self-esteem in a supportive environment. Final performance for family & friends. Instructed by Nathan Hartswick.
Ages: 13-16. Wednesdays, 4 – 5:30 p.m., January 4 –February 8. Deadline to register is December 21. Fee: $130. Spark Arts, 180 Flynn Ave., Burlington, VT. Information: Nathan Hartswick, 373-4703, nathan@ sparkartsvt.com.
List your class or camp here for only $15/month! Submit the listing by the 15th at kidsvt.com or to classes@kidsvt.com
CALENDAR BY MARYELLEN APELQUISTCatamount Winter Concert: The University of Vermont’s select choir shares the spirit of the season. All ages. Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Burlington, 12:15-1 p.m. Free. Info, 864-0471. This mini-concert features advanced students from Carolyn Bever’s Violin Studio. All ages. University Mall, South Burlington, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1066, ext.
Science & Stories: Winter Trees: Little ones learn about evergreens. Ages 2-6. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
7 WEDNESDAY
favorites such as Wonderful Life
Movies at Main Street Landing: Holiday A Christmas Story and It’s a are among the classics shared during this series. Main Street Landing, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Donations encouraged for Lund Family Center. Info, 540-3018.
Chittenden County families donate their gently used winter wear to help their neighbors keep warm. Drop-o boxes are located at the Customer Service Desk. University Mall, South Burlington. Free. Info,
Families bring their four-legged friends along for pictures with Santa. Burlington Town Center, 6 p.m. Info, 312-729-4404.
Talking With Your Mentee: Mentors learn tools for di cult conversations. A light dinner is provided. Preregister. Heritage Aviation, South Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free.
Baby Party: Moms-to-be and their supporters get the lowdown on infant-related topics ranging from nutrition to child development. Preregister. Copley Hospital, Morrisville, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 888-8116.
Anytime Craft: Holiday Decorations: Kids get their craft whenever the mood strikes them. All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, Free.
Books for Children: Burlingtonians donate preschooler-friendly texts during this annual gift campaign. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, Free. Info, 865-7216.
Craftacular Tuesdays: Kids get caught up in low-tech projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
Creative Tuesdays: Crafters use their imagination and recycled materials. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info,
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.
Music in the Meeting House: Raphael strums, sings and sneaks in basic music theory — all while emphasizing good fun, taking turns and motor skills. Ages 3-5. Colchester Village Meeting House, 12:30-1 p.m. Free. Info, 879-7576.
VYOA Auditions: Young musicians are invited to try out for the Vermont Youth Orchestra Association. Various times. Preregister. Saint Michael’s College, Colchester. Free. Info, 655-5030.
Coats for Kids: See December 6.
Pet Pics: See December 6.
Cookie Decorating: Budding bakers doll up treats with sprinkles, frosting, sugar and nuts. Panadero Bakery, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-8278.
High School Morning Preview: Interested students and their families visit Waldorf classrooms, meet faculty and enjoy a welcome tea. Lake Champlain Waldorf High School, Charlotte, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-2827.
Kids Cook Up Stories: Little ones read a story and bring it to life through cooking. For prekindergarten-age children. LACE, Barre, 10 a.m. $3 suggested donation. Info, 476-4276.
Social Thinking: Meetings focus on socialskills development for kids with nonverbal learning disabilities, Asperger’s syndrome and high-functioning autism. Call for times. Ages 6-17. Preregister. Maple Leaf Clinic, Wallingford. Info, 446-3577.
Afternoon Hoops: Basketball-loving high school students spend the afternoon dribbling, shooting and scoring. Preregister. St. Albans City Hall, 2:30-3:45 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.
Hand in Hand:
Do-gooders get together to plan community projects and help the environment as part of this service club for kids. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info,
388-4097.
Music With Robert: Families enjoy a sing-along. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Breast-Feeding-Mom Support: New mothers get to know each other during this informative and informal session. Children welcome. Trinity Episcopal Church, Rutland, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 747-8665.
Kids Open Gymnastics: Tykes tumble and jump while adults connect with other families.
Snack is provided. River Arts, Morrisville, 1011:30 a.m. $5 child, $8 two children, $10 three or more children. Info, 888-1261.
Anytime Craft: Holiday Decorations: See December 6.
Books for Children: See December 6.
Lego Afternoons: Kids create freely from big buckets of building blocks. Parents encouraged to send a snack; popcorn provided by library. Ages 6 and up. Lincoln Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.
Movin’ & Groovin’ With Christine: Tots let loose to the rhythms of rock and world music.
Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Solstice Craft: Kiddos celebrate the return of the sun by crafting a stained-glass candleholder. Ages 5 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Story Time With Mrs. Claus: Santa’s wife shares tales and tasty treats. Kids and parents are encouraged to wear PJs. All ages. University Mall, South Burlington, 6:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1066, ext. 11.
Tree Lighting & Train Hop: Hands-on play stations include the Hogwarts Express and Edible Candy Caboose. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
8 THURSDAY
Movin’ & Groovin’: Little ones jump, tumble, dance, climb, march and more during this session designed to build confidence and coordination. Ages 18 months-4. Preregister. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 10:15-11:15 a.m. $12 child. Info, 457-3500.
Pollywog Drop-in Art: Tots get their art fix with a variety of craft materials, from homemade play dough to colorful ribbons. Ages 6 months-5 accompanied by adult. Burlington City Arts Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $6 child/parent pair, $5 BCA member child/parent pair. Info, 865-7166.
VYOA Auditions: See December 7.
Coats for Kids: See December 6.
Mommy Matinee: Parents and their wee ones catch a flick with dimmed lights and
baby-friendly volume. Palace 9, South Burlington, 10:30 a.m. Call for prices. Info, 864-5610.
Network and Nibble: Franklin Grand Isle Support Parents come together. LaQuinta Inn, St. Albans, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 800-800-4005, ext. 201.
Pet Pics: See December 6.
Hot Mama Workout: Kids are welcome while moms squeeze in some fitness. Preregister. City Hall Gymnasium, St. Albans, 9-10 a.m. Free if preregistered. $10 drop-in. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.
Stroller Strolling: Families walk and roll down the recreation path. This informal, drop-in program ends when the weather gets too chilly. Fairfax Community Park & Recreation Path, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-1941.
Anytime Craft: Holiday Decorations: See December 6.
Books for Children: See December 6.
Gingerbread House Design: Kids transform graham crackers into holiday art. Ages 6 and up. Preregister. St. Albans Free Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
Highgate Youth Advisory: Kids in grades 5-8 plan projects with the Crossroads After School Program. Highgate Public Library, 3-4:45 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.
Lego Club: Building-block lovers get busy. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
Middle School Planners & Helpers: Students help redesign the YA Room and lend a hand with other cool projects. Grades 6-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:40 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Origami in the Afternoon: Kids practice the art of paper folding with a pro. Grades 4-8. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 3:15 p.m. Free. Info, 626-5475.
Bears, Oh My!: Wee ones walk, talk and eat like they’re furry and four-legged. Ages 3-5 with adult. Preregister. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10-11 a.m. $8 member adult with child, $4 additional child; $10 nonmember adult with child, $4 additional child. Info, 434-3068.
Snow-inspired sports and art draw Vermont families year after year to the STOWE WINTER CARNIVAL. The two-week festival helps stave off the post-holiday winter doldrums with ice carving, ski racing, live music, youth hockey, “snowvolleyball” and “snowgolf” tourneys. Don’t miss Kids Carnival Kaos, a festival within the festival, featuring games, dancing, a bounce house, and visits from Big Bird and Spider-Man.
STOWE WINTER CARNIVAL: Monday, January 16, through Sunday, January 29. Various Stowe locations. Kids Carnival Kaos: Saturday, January 21, 1 to 3 p.m., Stowe Elementary School. All ages. Free for spectators; some entry fees to participate. Info, 777-5510, stowewintercarnival.com.
Coats for Kids: See December 6.
Family Dive-in Movie: Film fans bring their swimsuits and towels for an evening at the pool. Call for movie title. All ages with adult. The Edge, Essex, 6-8 p.m. Info, 846-4108.
Pet Pics: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: This luminous festival features seven towns throughout Mount Snow Valley: Readsboro, Whitingham, Halifax, Jacksonville, Wilmington, Dover and Wardsboro. Stops for cocoa breaks and restrooms are featured. All ages. 5 p.m. Free. Info, 464-8092.
Wassail Weekend on the Farm: History lovers celebrate the holidays like it’s 1890 with traditional music, sleigh rides, an ornament craft and more. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 457-2355.
Kids in the Kitchen: Quick Breads: Little bakers learn the basics, then customize their loaves with extras such as chocolate chips and dried fruits. All ages with adult. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-5 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Woodstock Wassail Weekend: Holiday festivities throughout town include an equestrian parade, theater and musical performances, home tour, craft fair, and more. Various locations, Woodstock, various times. All ages. Call for prices. Info, 457-3555.
Adventures With Parker T. Bear: A friendly grizzly leads a hike, complete with snacks and an outdoor activity. A di erent trail is explored each week; call for location. Ages 2-5. 9:30-11 a.m. $6 resident child, $10 nonresident child. Info, 846-4108.
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Anytime Craft: Holiday Decorations: See December 6.
Books for Children: See December 6.
9 FRIDAY Arts
Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 7.
Family Clay Drop-in: Parents join kids for some work on the wheel. All ages. Burlington City Arts Center, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $6 nonmember, $5 member; punchcard available; prices include one fired/glazed piece, $5 additional piece. Info, 865-7166.
Gingerbread Village: Budding builders use sugar, spice and sound construction techniques to create a tiny-but-tasty town. Grades K-2. Preregister. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 3-4:30 p.m. Call for price. Info, 253-8358.
Preschool Clay Drop-in: Kids craft cool stu using the wheel or working by hand. Preschool ages. Burlington City Arts Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. $6 child. Info, 865-7166.
VYOA Auditions: See December 7.
Footwear Fun: Kids hide their shoes and hope to find them filled with candy and other treats, just like on St. Nicholas Day. Ages 5-12. Lincoln Library, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2665. Lego Fun: Budding builders share blocks. Grades K and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Movie Night: Families curl up to watch Disney’s A Christmas Carol. Kids are encouraged to wear their PJs and bring a blanket. All ages. Preregister. Highgate Public Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.
Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 7.
Family Art Drop-in: Crafters, painters and other art lovers work together in the First Floor Gallery. All ages. Burlington City Arts Center, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166.
Gingerbread-House Decorating: Kids and parents doll up wee dwellings. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, noon-3 p.m. $35 family. Info, 864-0123.
MONDAY
Burlington Early-Months Playgroup: This mother-infant group for moms and their first babies during the first few months after birth includes baby massage, lullabies and information sharing. VNA Family Room. St. Joseph School, Burlington, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.
Fathers Group: Dads and their kids socialize indoors and out. Ages 6-12 with adult. O’Brien Community Center, Winooski, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 862-9622.
Isle La Motte Playgroup: Free play, stories, crafts and a provided snack. Isle La Motte School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Jeffersonville Hometown Playgroup: This playtime sponsored by Lamoille Family Center gives children a place to have fun and meet new friends while parents socialize and learn about local resources for families. Follows school calendar. All ages. Cambridge Elementary School, Je ersonville, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 885-5229.
Morristown Hometown Playgroup: Children play and meet new friends while parents socialize and learn about family resources in the area. Follows school calendar. Morristown Graded Building, Morrisville, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.
Swanton Playgroup: Tykes enjoy free play, stories, songs, crafts and a provided snack. Mary S. Babcock School, Swanton, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Williston Music With Raphael: Kids sing, dance and clap their hands to folk music. Ages 5 and under with a caregiver. Limit is one session per week per family. No session December
26. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
Winooski Fathers and Children Together: Dads do dinner and playtime with their kids. First graders and under. Winooski Family Center, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.
TUESDAY
Alburgh Music and Movement: Kids get moving and grooving in the gym. Footwear that doesn’t mark is required. Alburgh Community Education Center, every other Tuesday, 9:15-10 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Bristol Playgroup: Young families get to know each other. All ages. Bristol Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.
Burlington Family Play: BFP’s Big Room features activities for parents and children ages birth-5. Moms and dads may work on their GED or high school diploma, take ESL classes or parenting workshops. The Baby Room focuses on child development, baby signs and baby massage. Sessions run simultaneously. St. Joseph School, Burlington, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.
Burlington Fathers and Children Together: Dads and kids share family time. VNA Family Room. St. Joseph School, Burlington, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.
Hardwick Playgroup: Children get out and play while parents meet. Hardwick Elementary School, 8:15-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 652-5138. Johnson Baby Chat: Babies and their caregivers socialize. Church of the Nazarene, Johnson, fourth Tuesday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.
Middlebury Playgroup: Kids of all ages join friends for free fun. Middlebury Baptist Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.
Milton Playgroup: All ages. New Life Fellowship Church, Milton, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 893-1457.
Montpelier Tulsi Morning Playgroup: Featuring botanically inspired storytelling, this playgroup inspires kids with art projects and games. Ages infant-8. Tulsi Tea Room, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 223-0043.
South Hero Playgroup: Free play, crafts and songs entertain children and their grownup companions. South Hero Congregational Church, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
St. Albans Playgroup: Children and their caregivers socialize and play. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, St. Albans, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Worcester Playgroup: Children get in on some playgroup fun with friends. All ages. Doty Memorial School, Worcester, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 229-0173.
WEDNESDAY
Burlington Family Play at Ethan Allen: This group includes indoor and outdoor activities for parents and children ages birth-5. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Burlington, 9 a.m.1 p.m., 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.
Charlotte Playgroup: Hula-hoops, tunnels, mats, kiddie cars and more make playtime fun. Ages birth-5. No sessions December 14 and 28. Charlotte Central School, 12:15-1:15 p.m. Free. Info, 764-5820.
Enosburg Playgroup: Kids enjoy circle time, free play and a craft. Snack provided. American Legion, Enosburg Falls, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 933-6435.
Essex Welcome Baby Playgroup: Parents and their babies make new connections. Essex Junction Teen Center, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 872-9580.
Fairfield Playgroup: Kids and their caregivers play, sing, share stories and a snack. Bent Northrup Memorial Library, Fairfield, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Hinesburg Playgroup for Dads: Pops and their tots share food and playtime. Annette’s Preschool, Hinesburg, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.
Montgomery Playgroup: Free play, songs, stories, crafts and a snack are provided for children and their adult caregivers. Montgomery Town Library, fourth Wednesday of every month, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Vergennes Playgroup: All ages. Congregational Church of Vergennes, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.
Williston Baby-Time Playgroup: Baby play for infants and toddlers. No playgroup on the first Wednesday of the month or on December 21. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 658-3659.
Winooski Open Gym With Princess: Kids let loose with free play before sharing cupcakes and stories with royalty. Regal Gymnastics Academy, Winooski, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $12 child. Info, 655-3300.
THURSDAY
Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: This relaxed group fosters community, support and friendship in the transition between pregnancy and motherhood. Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga, Burlington, second and fourth Thursday of every month, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 864-9642.
Burlington Family Play: See Tuesday.
Burlington Family Play at Ethan Allen: See Wednesday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Fletcher Playgroup: Kids play and interact with games, toys, arts and crafts, and other resources in the school gym. Bring a snack.
Fletcher Elementary School, Cambridge, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Georgia Playgroup: Kids and their adult caregivers unwind with stories, songs, crafts and free play. Snack provided. Georgia Youth Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Johnson Hometown Playgroup: Children play and meet new friends while parents socialize and learn about local family resources. Follows school calendar. United Church of Johnson, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.
Milton Playgroup: See Tuesday.
Montgomery Infant Playgroup: This playtime for little ones lets parents meet and talk. Ages birth-2 with caregivers. Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Morrisville Baby Chat: Babies play while parents learn about developmental expectations. Local specialist in child health available. First Congregational Church of Morrisville, first Thursday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.
Richmond Welcome Baby Group: Newest community members play and socialize. Richmond Free Library, second Thursday of every month, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 899-4415.
Williston Music With Raphael: See Monday, 10:30 a.m.
Winooski Playgroup: Stories, songs and playtime. Ages birth-5 with caregiver. O’Brien Community Center, Winooski, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 655-1422.
FRIDAY
Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers and Toddlers: Tots and parents learn, play and share in the VNA Family Room. St. Joseph School, Burlington, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 999-5100.
Schedule varies due to Essex Community Players’ schedule. Memorial Hall, Essex Junction, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6751.
Fairfax Playgroup: Tykes enjoy circle time, crafts and snacks in addition to free play. BFA Fairfax, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Ferrisburgh Open Gym: All ages. Ferrisburgh Central School, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-3171.
Hometown Playgroup Stowe: Children meet new friends for playtime while parents socialize and learn about local family resources. Follows school calendar. Stowe Community Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 888-5229.
Montgomery Tumble Time: Little ones expend some energy with toys and plenty of room to run in the gym. Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Shelburne Playgroup: Tots bring a toy to share and a snack, and play with other kids and parents. Trinity Episcopal Church, Shelburne, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 985-2382. St. Albans MOPS: Child care is provided during this gathering for mothers with children ages birth-6. Church of the Rock, St. Albans, third and first Friday of every month, 8:45-11 a.m. Free. Info, 891-1230.
Swanton Late-Morning Playgroup: Families round out their morning routine with free play, stories, songs, crafts and a snack. Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Swanton, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Fairfax Open Tot Gym & Infant Playtime: Kids slide, jump, swing, tumble and more during this free-play session. Babies have space to bop around and explore in an area all their own. BFA Fairfax, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-6393.
Franklin Playgroup: Little ones share stories, songs and crafts. Ages birth-6. Franklin Central School, second Saturday of every month, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. Morrisville Weekend Baby Chat: This playgroup is for the youngest members of the community and their caregivers. Lamoille Family Center, Morrisville, second Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3470.
North Hero Tumble Time: Children and their caregivers play and share a snack. North Hero Elementary School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
South Burlington Tots and Tykes Open Gym: Open, unstructured playtime in the gym. Ages 1-5 with caregivers. Chamberlin School, South Burlington, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4108.
Tots & Tykes Gym Time: The pint-size set is free to play while parents socialize. Ages 1-5 with adult. Chamberlin School, South Burlington, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4108.
Williston Music With Raphael: See Thursday; December 17 only.
10 SATURDAY (CONTINUED)
Ornament Making: Families craft holiday decorations. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $15 family. Info, 864-0123.
Saturday Drama Club: Kids help Very Merry Theatre produce a show in just three hours. All ages. Preregister. Pay-by-the-day program. Very Merry Theatre, 333 North Winooski Avenue, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $15 child (or whatever you can a ord). Info, 863-6607.
Sing for Joy: Maiden Vermont, a multigenerational women’s chorus, shares the spirit of the season. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury. All ages. 7:30 p.m. $15 adult, $10 student, $12 senior. Info, 382-9222.
VYOA Auditions: See December 7.
Woodstock Film Series: Movie fans catch a flick on the farm’s big screen. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 3 p.m. $10 adult, $6 child. Call for member and package prices. Info, 457-2355.
Breakfast With Santa: Kids join the Clauses for a morning meal, crafts, cookie decorating and more. Ages 3-10. Preregister. Gardener’s Supply, Williston, 8:30 & 10 a.m. $10 child. Info, 658-2433.
Coats for Kids: See December 6.
Holiday Railroad: The Polar Express comes to life on the Green Mountain Railroad. White River Junction Train Station. All ages., 10 a.m. $23 adult, $18 child, free for babies in laps. Info, 356-2730.
Pet Pics: See December 6.
Sibshops: This group provides support to boys and girls who have siblings with special needs. Ages 7-12. HowardCenter Child, Youth and Family Services, Burlington, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 800-800-4005, ext. 217.
Touch of Vermont: This holiday gift market features goodies from across the state, including ra e prizes. All ages. Montpelier City Hall, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 310-1725.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Victorian Holiday: Merry-makers celebrate the season with wagon rides, teas, gift making, caroling, crafting and more. Various locations, St. Johnsbury. All ages. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. Info, 748-7121.
Wassail Weekend on the Farm: See December 9.
Chocolate Delights: This holiday class covers confections. Milton Town O ce Community Room, 10 a.m.-noon. $25 Milton resident. Info, 893-4922.
Winter’s Eve Celebration: Families frolic with 18th-century music, dance and historic reenactments. All ages. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Burlington, 4-7 p.m. $5 adult, $3 child, free for children under age 6. Info, 865-4556.
Woodstock Wassail Weekend: See December 9.
Postnatal Yoga: Moms and their brand-new babies connect through movement and breathing exercises. Central Vermont Medical Center, Berlin, 10:45-11:45 a.m. $10 mom/baby pair. Info, 778-0300.
Books and Beyond: This program combines children’s literature and hands-on activities for fun science learning and exploration. Ages 3-5 and their parent or caregiver. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, December 12, 10:15 & 11:30 a.m., January 9, 10:15-11 a.m. . Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Bristol Toddler Story Time: Introduce your little one to the library and children’s books with activities and music. Lawrence Memorial Library, Bristol, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.
Burlington Stories With Megan: Enjoy a funfilled preschool story time with rhymes, songs and books. Ages 2-5. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Essex Drop-in Story Time: Little ones relax with a mid-morning story. All ages. Essex Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.
Marshfield Story Time: Read-aloud tales with a cross-cultural theme catch the ear of youngsters. Ages birth-6. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.
Milton Infant Story Time: Little ones enjoy lap time, songs and stories. Ages birth-18 months. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.
Richmond Pajama Time: Stories with Douglas while decked out in your bedtime best. Ages 2-6. Richmond Free Library, 6:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.
St. Albans Story Time: Book hounds hear stories, sing songs and play. Ages birth-6 and their caregivers. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
Stories With Megan: Fun-filled story time features multicultural songs and rhymes. Ages 2-5. Group does not meet December 26 or January 16. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Stowe Monday Morning Story Time: Little lit lovers share stories and songs in the community room. Stowe Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145.
Waterbury Toddlers-n-Twos: Active stories designed for kids ages 18-36 months and their caregivers. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: Early readers get together for group book time; snack and juice provided. Ages 1-7. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.
Woodstock Baby Story Time: Ages 6 months-2. Norman Williams Public Library, Woodstock, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.
TUESDAY
Alburgh Story Hour: Little ones enjoy stories, songs, crafts and snacks. Ages 2-5. Alburgh Community Education Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 796-6077.
Barre Children’s Story Hour: Tots tune in for audible prose. Ages 2-5. Aldrich Public Library, Barre, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-7550.
Barre Kids Story Hour: Bookworms show up for tall tales. Kids under 3 meet at 10 a.m., ages 3-5 meet at 10:30 a.m. East Barre
Branch Library. Free. Info, 476-5118.
Burlington Stories With a Twist: Kids and their caregivers join a preschool educator as she brings science and nature to life with stories, songs and crafts using a unique style of teaching to engage ECHO’s youngest visitors. Ages 2-6. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 324-6386.
Colchester Toddler Story Time: Stories for tots. Ages 18 months-3. Preregister. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313. East Middlebury Preschool Story Hour: Kids get silly with stories and songs. Follows school calendar. Ages birth-5 with caregiver. Sara Partridge Community Library, East Middlebury, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 388-7588.
Essex Story Time at Brownell: Stories, songs, rhymes and more for little ones. Ages 3-5. Preregister. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, Wednesdays, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Essex Toddler Story Time at Brownell: Simple stories, songs and fingerplays for the toddler crew. Ages 18 months-3 with adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Fairfax Preschool Story Time: Kids and their caregivers enjoy an hour of stories, songs and crafts. Fairfax Community Library, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 242-9000.
Grand Isle PJ Story Time: Curl up in your PJs with a good book. Ages birth-6. Grand Isle Free Library, first Tuesday of every month, 6:307:30 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Highgate Toddler and Preschool Story Time: Kids listen to stories and songs, shake out their sillies, and make a craft. Follows school calendar. Ages birth-preschool. Highgate Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.
Hinesburg Preschool Story Time: Ages 3-5. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878, carpentercarselibrary@ gmavt.net.
Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: Kids listen to engaging stories. Ages 3 and under. CarpenterCarse Library, Hinesburg, first and third Tuesday of every month, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.
Huntington Story Time in the Nestlings Nook: Stories about birds are followed by a nature walk, crafts or music, depending on the weather. Intended for preschoolers, but all ages welcome. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, second Tuesday of every month, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free with
admission (donations welcome). Info, 434-2167.
Lyndonville Baby/Toddler Story Time: Connect with library friends and enjoy stories, songs, storyboards and finger plays. Ages birth-3 and caregivers. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 626-5475.
Milton Preschool Story Time: Books, songs and crafts entertain tykes. Ages 3-5. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644. Montpelier Story Time: Join us for great books, singing, crafts and fun. Follows school calendar. Preschool age. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
Reading With Frosty and Friends: Kids share tales with pooches from Therapy Dogs of Vermont. All ages. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
Richmond Story Time: Tall tales and simple stories. Ages 2-6. Richmond Free Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.
Shelburne Story Time With Webby: Lively readings of children’s books related to museum collections, with new stories offered each week. Intended for preschoolers, but all welcome. Shelburne Museum, 10:30-11 a.m. Free with admission. Info, 985-3346.
South Burlington Tiny-Tot Time: Wee ones join Miss Meg for songs and stories during this literacy-based program. Ages 3 and under. No sessions December 13, 20 or 27. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.
Williston Story Hour: Wee ones share stories and crafts. Ages 3-5. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: SeeMonday.
Woodstock Toddler Story
Time: Ages 2-5. Norman Williams Public Library, Woodstock, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.
WEDNESDAY
Colchester Pajama Story
Time: Little ones (and big ones, if they so desire) wear their PJs to the library and enjoy stories, cookies and milk. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, third Wednesday of every month, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-7576.
Highgate Toddler and Preschool Story Time: See Tuesday, 11:15 a.m.
Lyndonville Preschool Story Time: Enjoy stories, the letter of the day, a focus on one of six early-literacy skills each week, songs, crafts and friends. Ages 3-5 and families. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 626-5475.
Middlebury Baby and Toddler Story Hour: Stories encourage literacy in young readers. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
Middlebury Stories With Shoopie and Lily: Read to a therapy dog. Preregister. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
Montgomery Story Hour: Listen to stories, do a craft and share a provided snack. Montgomery Town Library, second Wednesday of every month, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free.
Montpelier Story Time: Kids gather for great books, singing, crafts and fun. Follows school calendar. Preschool age. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
Richford Story Hour: Join your friends and make new ones during this story hour for preschoolers. Preregister. Arvin A. Library, Richford, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 848-3313.
Shelburne Teddy Bear Story Time: A bear-y good time with books and stories. Ages 3-5. Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Shelburne, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 985-1643.
South Burlington Story Time: Sta read newly released board books and old favorites. Ages 1-3. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.
Swanton Story Hour: Come listen to stories and songs, and do an easy craft. Swanton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 868-7656.
Warren Story Hour: Toddlers and preschoolers share stories, games and toys. Warren Public Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 496-3913.
Waterbury Baby Lap Time: Story time designed for babies birth to 18 months with songs and simple rhymes. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.
Thursday
Barre Kids story hour: Snacks and activities follow an hour of tales. , 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 476-4276.
Bristol Preschool story Time: Explore early literacy skills with reading, music, movement and projects. Lawrence Memorial Library, Bristol, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366.
colchester Preschool story Time: Stories, crafts and other activities for preschoolers. Ages 3-6. Preregister. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, Mondays, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.
Franklin story Time: Preschool story time filled with fun crafts, silly songs and stories. Haston Library, Franklin, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505.
middlebury Preschool story hour: Stories, songs, rhymes and a craft. Follows school calendar. Ages 3 and up. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
shelburne story Time With mary catherine Jones: The musician and storyteller brings stories, songs and rhymes to the library. All ages welcome. Pierson Library, Shelburne, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.
south Burlington Baby story Time: Infants are introduced to the wonders of language with nursery rhymes, songs, finger plays and board books. For children who are not yet walking. Preregister. No story time December
22 and 29. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.
st. albans story Time: Book hounds hear stories, sing songs and play. Ages birth-6 and their caregivers. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
Vergennes story Time: Themed stories with American Sign Language and an activity. Preschool ages. Bixby Memorial Library, Vergennes, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 877-2211.
Westford story Time: Stories and activities utilize early-literacy concepts. Ages birthpreschool. Westford Public Library, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-5639.
Williston story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.
Friday
Burlington Pint-size science & stories: This program focuses on a different science topic each week. Children are encouraged to ask questions, make predictions, and test their ideas. Ages 3-7 with adult caregiver. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 324-6386.
Enosburg story hour: Listen to stories, craft something cool, even take a field trip. Preregister. Enosburg Public Library, 9-10 a.m. Free. Info, 933-2328.
huntington story Time: This early-literacy hour features rhymes, books and music for wee ones up to age 5. Huntington Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 434-4583.
Lincoln children’s story Time: Songs, crafts and other activities for children. Ages birth-5. Lincoln Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.
milton Toddler story Time: Toddlers tackle tall tales and enjoy songs and crafts. Ages 18 months-3 years. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.
montpelier story Time: Kids crack open great books and enjoy singing, crafts and fun. Follows school calendar. Preschool age. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
south Burlington story Time adventures: Tots listen to stories, sing songs, play games and create with a variety of materials that Mr. Monkey has hiding in his tree house. Intended for ages 30 months and up; children who are able to sit, listen and safely create with small materials. No session December 16-30. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.
Waterbury Preschool story Time: A time for great stories, puppets and fun songs. Ages 3-6. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
Williston story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Monday.
Williston Toddler Time: Early-literacy skills are taught through stories, rhymes, songs and simple crafts. Ages 1-3 with adult. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
saTurday
african adventures story Time: Kiddos go on safari through books. All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, December 3 and 10, 10:30-11:30 a.m., and December 10, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
colchester saturday stories: Children of all ages enjoy great picture books. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.
saturday drop-in story Time: Kids check out a weekly selection of music and books. All ages. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313.
shelburne Teddy Bear story Time: A bear-y good time with books and stories. Ages 3-5. Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Shelburne, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 985-1643.
south Burlington saturday story Time: Staff read newly released books that will resonate with children up to grade 2. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.
south Burlington second-saturday stories: Families share stories with Miss Meg, then explore and create with a mix of materials. South Burlington Community Library, second Saturday of every month, 10:15 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 652-7080.
Woodstock story Time: Little literati enjoy great reads. Ages 3-7. Norman Williams Public Library, Woodstock, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 457-2295. K
Prenatal Yoga: Moms-to-be explore meditations, postures and breath work tailored to their minds and bodies during pregnancy. Central Vermont Medical Center, Berlin, 9-10:30 a.m. $10 person. Info, 778-0300.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6. Books for children: See December 6. canine Therapy: ChocolateLab Sara loves to listen to kids read. Grades K and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Fun With mr. K: This Exordium Adventures program teaches kids to make treats for their feathered friends. Grades K-4. Preregister. Highgate Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.
Holiday movie: Families catch a festive flick. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
color mixing: Little ones combine primary colors to create new hues. Intended for preschoolers. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Family Fun Night: Kids and parents snowshoe by the light of the moon, then cozy up to a campfire to meet some forest creatures. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $10 nonmember, $8 member. Info, 359-5000.
Gearing Up: Little engineers create machines to explore how gears work. Ages 9 and up. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
The Realities of cooties!: Kiddos climb aboard the FACT ambulance and learn about sneezes and scabs from Vermont Children’s Hospital staff. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
Woodworking demo: Bird lovers check out carvings in progress and guess which feathered friends will be added next to the museum collection. All ages. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 1 p.m. Free with admission. Info, 434-2167.
‘A christmas carol’: Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge is a family favorite. All ages. Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, Burlington, 7 p.m. $15-$42 ticket. Info, 863-5966.
Holiday concert & sing-Along: Friends and neighbors make merry with the Milton Community Band. All ages. Milton Junior-Senior High School, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 893-1398.
Nowell sing We clear: The vocals are front are front and center in this pageant of midwinter carols. Unitarian Universalist Society, Burlington, 4 p.m. $20 adult in advance, $25 at the door, $10 child, free for ages 5 and under. Info, 388-4964.
VYoA Auditions: See December 7.
Breakfast With santa: Kids get a little face time with the jolly old elf over scrambled eggs and pancakes. Picture taking available for additional fee or with donation to toy drive or food shelf. All ages with adult. Preregister and pick up tickets at Milton Family Community Center. Sweet Pea Cafe, Milton. 9 & 10:30 a.m. $10 child. Info, 893-1457.
coats for Kids: See December 6.
Family Holiday concert: Merrymakers sing along with Brass Act and the Milton Community Band. All ages. Milton Junior-Senior High School, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4922.
Holiday Railroad: See December 10.
Pet Pics: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Wassail Weekend on the Farm: See December 9.
coolidge Holiday open House: See spotlight, page 40.
Woodstock Wassail Weekend: See December 9.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
Books for children: See December 6.
About Air: Kids create mini-parachutes to learn how air resistance slows down falling objects. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
skulls: Science lovers explore skeletal remains of local wildlife. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
sundays for Fledglings: Kids hike, create, explore, carve, act, write and investigate the lives of birds, their habitats and their neighbors. Intended for kids in grades 1-4, but all welcome. Preregister. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2 p.m. Free with admission. Info, 434-2167.
monday mall magic: Magician Adam Wilber shows his stuff in the JCPenney court. All ages. University Mall, South Burlington, 6:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 863-1066, ext. 11.
VYoA Auditions: See December 7.
coats for Kids: See December 6.
Pet Pics: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Hot mama Workout: See December 8.
Prenatal Yoga: Moms in the making practice postures, meditations and breath work tailored to pregnancy. Drop-ins are welcome. Yoga Mountain Center, Montpelier, 5:30-7 p.m. Call for rates. Info, 778-0300.
a substance-free new year’s eve celebration for all ages, FiRsT NiGHT BURLiNGToN features a wide range of performing arts and activities in more than 20 downtown venues. circus Smirkus, fireworks, Dancing Dragons Parade and performances by the Vermont youth orchestra and Very merry theatre are just a handful of the acts entertaining the wee crowd. First night burlington also publishes a handy “Family-Friendly users Guide” to the festival, highlighting the best places to eat, park and find a potty.
FiRsT NiGHT BURLiNGToN: Saturday, December 31, noon to midnight. Various locations. All ages. $18 adult, $5 child, $39 family. Info, 863-6005, firstnightburlington.com.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
Legos & chess: Gamers go old school with building blocks and knights, rooks and pawns. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
may’s music & movement: Kids and their caregivers don their dancing shoes for a turn on the floor with May. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
Williston PJ story Time: Kiddos get cozy in their jammies for stories, crafts and a bedtime snack. All ages. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7147.
Holiday Violins: See December 6. movies at main street Landing: See December 6.
VYoA Auditions: See December 7.
Community coats for Kids: See December 6. Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Building a Better iEP: This workshop for parents explores the Individualized Education Program process. Free pizza and salad are provided. McClure Multigenerational Center, Burlington, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 800-8004005, ext. 225.
Kids in the Kitchen: Gingerbread Houses: Budding architects craft fanciful dwellings of sweets and make gingerbread men, too. All ages with adult. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-5 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
craftacular Tuesdays: See December 6. creative Tuesdays: See December 6. Game on!: Kids learn new games or play old faves. All ages. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
Hand in Hand: See December 6. music With Robert: See December 6.
science & stories: Elusive moose: Curious tots investigate the lives of these mysterious creatures. Ages 2-6. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
14 WEDNESDAY
candy-cane-making demo: See December 7. music in the meeting House: See December 7.
VYoA Auditions: See December 7.
coats for Kids: See December 6. Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Burlington La Leche League: Moms bring their questions, babies and older kids, too, to this breast-feeding support group. Lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-8228. cookie decorating: See December 7.
Kids cook Up stories: See December 7.
observation morning: Prospective families check out what this elementary school has to offer. The Schoolhouse, South Burlington, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 355-7023. social Thinking: See December 7.
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
Family movie Night: Lightning McQueen fans get their fix during this screening of Cars 2, rated G. Free popcorn and soda are provided. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Hogwarts Reading society: This club is for peeps who are pumped about Harry Potter and other fantasy series. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097. Lego Afternoons: See December 7.
movin’ & Groovin’ With christine: See December 7.
‘The Polar Express’: This magical evening includes a reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s book, a visit with one of Santa’s reindeer, cocoa and cookies. All ages. Preregister and specify boarding time. Highgate Public Library, 6 & 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.
story Time With mrs. claus: See December 7.
‘The christmas Revels’: This interactive holiday production makes merry with Queen Elizabeth and country folk. All ages. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, N.H. 7 p.m. $23$33 adult, $11-$15 child. Info, 603-646-2422.
movin’ & Groovin’: See December 8.
Pollywog drop-in Art: See December 8.
VYoA Auditions: See December 7.
coats for Kids: See December 6. mommy matinee: See December 8.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Hot mama Workout: See December 8. stroller strolling: See December 8.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
Highgate Youth Advisory: See December 8.
Holiday Gift making: Teens lead younger kids in the art of making and wrapping presents.
Grades K-5. Preregister. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3 & 4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Holiday open House: Families celebrate the season with Santa, snacks, crafts and more. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
origami in the Afternoon: See December 8.
16 FRIDAY
candy-cane-making demo: See December 7.
‘The christmas Revels’: See December 15, 7 p.m.
Family clay drop-in: See December 9.
Preschool clay drop-in: See December 9.
VYo Winter concert: The theme of peace is explored through different musical traditions and perspectives. All ages. Mahaney Center for the Arts. Middlebury College, 7:30 p.m. $8 adult, $6 senior, $5 student. Info, 443-6433.
Community coats for Kids: See December 6.
Parents Night out: Moms and dads drop off the kids for games, movies, crafts and snacks. Edmunds Middle School, Burlington, 6-9 p.m. $10 child. Info, 864-0123.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
History for Homeschoolers: Lessons cover the lives of Vermonters in the 1800s, including photos and stories from the Civil War. Ages 6-12. Vermont History Museum, Montpelier, 2 and 7 p.m. $5 student, $4 member student and for families with three or more children participating. Info, 828-2180.
Adventures With Parker T. Bear: SeeDecember 9.
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
movie magic: Cars 2, popcorn and soda make for family fun. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. songs & stories With matthew: Adventurestorytelling musician shares songs with kids. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Teen movie Night: Films for the teen set are screened in the library. Drinks and popcorn are provided; teens are asked to bring a snack to share. Grades 7 and up. Lincoln Library, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 453-2665.
Wii-tastic!: Gamers check out the new “Lego Star Wars” in addition to Wii classics such as “MarioKart.” Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Youth Night: Teens and tweens hang out with movies, snacks, crafting and more. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
Arts
candy-cane-making demo: See Decembe r 7.
‘The christmas Revels’: See December 15.
Family Art drop-in: See December 10.
‘The Nutcracker’: See spotlight, page 30.
saturday drama club: See December 10.
VYo Winter concert: See December 16, St. Michael’s College, Colchester, 7:30 p.m. $12 adult, $7 student.
Winter illuminations: This holiday performance features the Northern Vermont Ballet and 802 Quartet. Refreshments are available before and after the show. Ages 6 and up. Preregister. BFA Performing Arts Center, St. Albans, 8 p.m. $10-$15 person. Info, 393-8655.
christmas at the Farm: Festive doings include crafts, tours and sleigh rides. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 457-2355.
coats for Kids: See December 6.
Tea With santa: Mr. Claus shares a nosh with the community. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. $10 family. Info, 864-0123.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Butter making: Kids shake cream into yummy spread at City Market’s booth during the Burlington Farmers’ Market. All ages. Memorial Auditorium, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 861-9757.
ornament Workshop: Beeswax and pinecones are used to craft holiday decor. Milton Town Office Community Room, 10 a.m.-noon. $12 Milton resident. Info, 893-4922.
Postnatal Yoga: See December 10.
Prenatal Yoga: See December 10.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
That’s a Wrap: Kids create their own gifts for any occasion. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
Build it Better: Young scientists explore the world of batteries and electric energy during this hands-on workshop. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Hoopster Gliders: Kids create a craft that flies. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Woodworking demo: See December 10.
18 SUNDAY
Arts
‘The christmas Revels’: See December 15, 1 and 5 p.m.
‘The Nutcracker’: See spotlight, page 30. Winter illuminations: See December 17.
Community
christmas at the Farm: See December 17, 5 p.m.
coats for Kids: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
micro-Explorations: Kiddos use microscopes and realize there’s more to see than meets the naked eye. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
mirror, mirror: Science fans learn about symmetry and reflection while creating cool and complex images. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
sundays for Fledglings: See December 11.
19 MONDAY
Arts
monday mall magic: See December 12.
Community
coats for Kids: See December 6.
Families Together Holiday celebration: Members brainstorm ideas and speakers for the coming year. Call for location, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 373-5382.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Getting There: Life After High school: Topics range from skipping school to drug abuse during this program for parents and caregivers of youth who are having a tough time becoming adults. Vermont Family Network, Williston, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 800-800-4005, ext. 228.
Hot mama Workout: See December 8.
Prenatal Yoga: See December 12.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
Holiday craftacular: Preschoolers craft cards and gifts. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 388-4097.
20 TUESDAY
Arts
Holiday Violins: See December 6.
if you’ve never donned skis or snowshoes, winter sports can be intimidating. WiNTER TRAiLs dAY is designed to allay fears and inspire a passion for winter exercise. in conjunction with the national Winter trails program, Winter trails Day introduces novices of all ages to cross-country skiing and showshoeing with the help of professionals from nordic centers across the country, including some here in Vermont. their advice is free, and so is the equipment.
WiNTER TRAiLs dAY: Saturday, January 7. Mountain Top Inn & Resort, Chittenden. All ages. Free. Preregister. Info, 483-6089, snowlink.com, mountaintopinn.com.
movies at main street Landing: See December 6.
Community
coats for Kids: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Kids in the Kitchen: snowmen: Little bakers make men of cookie dough then decorate them with marshmallows and coconut. All ages with adult. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
craftacular Tuesdays: See December 6.
creative Tuesdays: See December 6. music With Robert: See December 6.
science & stories: Winter solstice: Daylight hours are dwindling and kids find out why. Ages
submit your February events by January 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
2-6. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
21 WEDNESDAY
Arts
candy-cane-making demo: See December 7. music in the meeting House: See December 7.
coats for Kids: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
cookie decorating: See December 7.
Kids cook Up stories: See December 7.
social Thinking: See December 7.
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
Lego Afternoons: See December 7.
movin’ & Groovin’ With christine: See December 7.
story Time With mrs. claus: See December 7.
22 THURSDAY
Arts
Pollywog drop-in Art: See December 8.
Community
coats for Kids: See December 6.
mommy matinee: See December 8.
steam Heat: This holiday extravaganza explores classic flicks and the music that fired them up. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury. All ages. 7 p.m. $10 person, $5 ages 12 and under. Info, 382-9222.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Winter solstice celebration: Grade schoolers from Orchard Valley Waldorf School present an evening of song, dance, drama, poetry and more. All ages. Montpelier High School, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 456-7400.
Health & Fitness
Hot mama Workout: See December 8.
stroller strolling: See December 8.
Library & Books
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
Highgate Youth Advisory: See December 8.
Lego club: See December 8.
origami in the Afternoon: See December 8.
23 FRIDAY
Arts
candy-cane-making demo: See December 7.
Family clay drop-in: See December 9.
Preschool clay drop-in: See December 9.
Community
coats for Kids: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Health & Fitness
Adventures With Parker T. Bear: See December 9.
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Library & Books
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
24 SATURDAY
Arts
saturday drama club: See December 10.
Woodstock Film series: See December 10.
Community
christmas at the Farm: See December 17.
coats for Kids: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Postnatal Yoga: See December 10.
Prenatal Yoga: See December 10.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
magnetic moments: Budding scientists experiment with magnets. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Woodworking demo: See December 10.
25 SUNDAY
Community
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
26 MONDAY
Community christmas at the Farm: See December 17. coats for Kids: See December 6.
Time to move: Little ones let loose with games that are all about motion. Ages 6-12. Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, Burlington, 9 a.m.-noon. $10 child. Info, 864-0123.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Hot mama Workout: See December 8.
Prenatal Yoga: See December 12. open House: Trampoline testers check out the new training center. Green Mountain Gymnastics, Williston, 5-9 p.m. Info, 652-2454.
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
magnetic moments: See December 24.
Playing Telephone: Kids craft paper-cup phones and explore the properties of sound waves. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
27 TUESDAY Arts
movies at main street Landing: See December 6.
Community
christmas at the Farm: See December 17. coats for Kids: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Library & Books
Anytime craft: Holiday decorations: See December 6.
craftacular Tuesdays: See December 6. creative Tuesdays: See December 6.
color mixing: See December 10.
Hoopster Gliders: See December 17, 3 p.m.
Art Safari: Tots dive into stories and art activities related to the museum’s collections. Ages 3-5 with adult. Preregister. Shelburne Museum, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $5 child. Info, 985-3346.
Music in the Meeting House: See December 7.
Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.
Coats for Kids: See December 6.
Time to Move: See December 26.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Cookie Decorating: See December 7.
Kids Cook Up Stories: See December 7.
Social Thinking: See December 7.
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Anytime Craft: Holiday Decorations:
See December 6.
Lego Afternoons: See December 7.
Movin’ & Groovin’ With Christine: See December 7.
About Air: See December 11.
Full of Hot Air: Families build and launch their own hot-air balloons and learn about the e ects of heat on an object’s density. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. $20 family. Info, 649-2200.
Optical Tops: Kids discover how rotation can create optical illusions. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Pollywog Drop-in Art: See December 8.
Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.
Coats for Kids: See December 6.
Mommy Matinee: See December 8.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
School’s Out Taco Bar: Little Mexican food lovers man the kitchen — making tortillas from scratch, prepping the fixings and, of course, chowing down. Ages 10 and up. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $35 child. Info, 8632569, ext. 1.
Hot Mama Workout: See December 8.
Stroller Strolling: See December 8.
Take the whole family back to the year 1872 during the COOLIDGE HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE. The village of Plymouth Notch is the backdrop for this Christmas event featuring the bedecked birthplace of the Vermonter president, old-time music, sleigh rides, craft demonstrations, children’s activities, lunch and more. History buffs are also invited to tour the Aldrich House, post office, 1924 Summer White House and Plymouth Cheese Factory.
COOLIDGE HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, December 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, Plymouth Notch. All ages. Free. Info, 672-3773, historicvermont.org.
Anytime Craft: Holiday Decorations: See December 6.
Highgate Youth Advisory: See December 8.
Lego Creations: Young builders make a masterpiece for display at the library. Ages 5 and up. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Origami in the Afternoon: See December 8.
Mirror, Mirror: See December 18.
Skulls: See December 11.
30 FRIDAY
Family Clay Drop-in: See December 9.
Preschool Clay Drop-in: See December 9.
Christmas at the Farm: See December 17. Coats for Kids: See December 6.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
Kids in the Kitchen: Sushi: Little chefs visit Japan during this culinary adventure with sticky rice and nori. All ages with adult. Preregister. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-5 p.m. $20 child. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Adventures With Parker T. Bear: See December 9.
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Anytime Craft: Holiday Decorations: See December 6.
Book vs. Movie: Film fans watch The Tale of Despereaux on the big screen, then compare the movie to the book. All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
Sound Science: Curious kids experiment with sounds and how they travel. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Straw Rockets: Science lovers discover the
power of air during this hands-on session. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Diversity Rocks!: Young musicians from around the globe share their talents as part of substance-free First Night Burlington. Burlington City Hall, 2 & 3 p.m. First Night Burlington admission. Info, 863-6005.
Saturday Drama Club: See December 10.
Christmas at the Farm: See December 17.
Coats for Kids: See December 6.
First Night Sing-Along: New Year’s revelers make merry through family-friendly songs. All ages. First Congregational Church, Burlington, noon-12:40 p.m. First Night Burlington admission.
Vermont Valley Lights: See December 9.
First Night Burlington: See spotlight, page 36.
Postnatal Yoga: See December 10.
Prenatal Yoga: See December 10.
Anytime Craft: Holiday Decorations: See December 6.
Look at Life: Budding biologists use a microscope to compare plant and animal cells. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
New England Wildlife: Nature lovers learn about animals living in our area. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Woodworking Demo: See December 10.
1 SUNDAY
FirstRun Fun Run: Young runners start the New Year with a run through downtown Burlington, either a half-mile or mile-long course. All ages. Free. Costumes encouraged. Memorial Auditorium, Burlington, 11:05 a.m. Info, 863-8412.
About Air: See December 11.
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. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Sundays for Fledglings: See December 11.
2 MONDAY
Hot Mama Workout: See December 8.
Prenatal Yoga: See December 12.
3 TUESDAY
Arts
movies at main street Landing: See December 6.
Library & Books
craftacular Tuesdays: See December 6.
creative Tuesdays: See December 6.
Nature & Science
science & stories: snow!: Kids get the lowdown on snow and build a snowman — indoors. Ages 2-6. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
4 WEDNESDAY
Arts
music in the meeting House: See December 7.
Education
cookie decorating: See December 7.
Kids cook Up stories: See December 7. social Thinking: See December 7.
Health & Fitness
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Breast-Feeding-mom support: See December 7.
Kids open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Library & Books
Hogwarts Reading society: See December 14.
Lego Afternoons: See December 7.
movin’ & Groovin’ With christine: See December 7.
5 THURSDAY
Arts
Pollywog drop-in Art: See December 8.
Community
mommy matinee: See December 8.
Health & Fitness
Hot mama Workout: See December 8. stroller strolling: See December 8.
Library & Books
Food for Thought: Teen volunteers chow down on pizza and work on library projects. Grades 7-12. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
Highgate Youth Advisory: See December 8.
Homeschoolers Book Group: Readers share thoughts on recent reads. Ages 8 and up. Preregister. St. Albans Free Library, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.
origami in the Afternoon: See December 8.
6 FRIDAY
Arts
Family clay drop-in: See December 9.
Preschool clay drop-in: See December 9.
Young Tradition Vermont Reunion: YTV alumni return from around the world to share an evening of music and dance. FlynnSpace,
Burlington, 7 p.m. $15 suggested donation. Info, mrksustc@together.net.
First Friday Family dance: Supper kicks off a wholesome evening of live music and dancing. All ages. Worcester Town Hall, 5:30-10 p.m. $5 person, $8-$12 family. Info, 229-0173.
Adventures With Parker T. Bear: See December 9.
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids open Gymnastics: See December 7.
7 SATURDAY
Arts
Woodstock Film series: See December 10.
ski swap: Skiers and boarders shop for new and used equipment. Ski Rack, Burlington, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Free to browse. Info, 800-882-4530.
Winter Trails day: See spotlight, page 38.
All About Fingerprints: Kids get up close and personal with their prints, exploring what makes them unique. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
8 SUNDAY
ski swap: See January 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Nature & Science
Leafcutter Ants: Nature fans examine the secret life of insect fungus farmers during this hands-on investigation. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. mirror, mirror: See December 18, 3 p.m.
9 MONDAY
Health & Fitness
Hot mama Workout: See December 8.
10 TUESDAY
open House & Panel: Current students and alumni discuss their high school experience. Lake Champlain Waldorf High School, Charlotte, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 985-2827.
Library & Books
Game on!: See December 13.
Nature & Science
science & stories: snowflakes: Kids explore unique properties of flakes and craft a oneof-a-kind piece of art. Ages 2-6. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
11 WEDNESDAY
Burlington La Leche League: See December
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See December 7.
12 THURSDAY
Health & Fitne
Hot Mama Workout: See December 8.
Library & B ks
Lego Club: See December 8.
Science Magic: Kids learn tricks using stu found around the house. Grades 3 and up. Preregister. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
13 FRIDAY
Education
History for Homeschoolers: See December 16.
Health & Fitne
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Library & B ks
Book vs. Movie: Film fans watch Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone on the big screen, then compare the movie to the book. All ages. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 3:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
14 SATURDAY
Arts
Celtic Winter Gathering: This celebration of Scottish Highland dancing features a competition with performers from all over New England, refreshments, and drumming and dance workshops. Ages 5 and up. All Souls Interfaith Gathering, Shelburne. 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Free to watch competition. Fees for tea, workshops and evening performance. Info, 999-0632.
Sleigh-Ride Weekend: Families cruise the farm the old-school way and visit the farmhouse. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 457-2355.
Open House: Interested families check out the school’s programs. Saxon Hill School, Jericho, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 879-0182.
‘Martin’s Big Words’: This film features stories from the African-American tradition and a biography of Martin Luther King Jr. All ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Creeping Colors: Science lovers explore the capillary action of water and how it a ects color. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Magnetic Moments: See December 24.
15 SUNDAY
Sleigh-Ride Weekend: See January 14.
Winter Adventures: Get set for games, races and other snow-based fun. All ages. Free Intervale Community Farm, Burlington, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info, 863-8412.
‘Martin’s Big Words’: See January 14.
Optical Illusions: See January 1. Who Sank the Boat?: Newbie boat-builders craft a vessel, then see how much weight it can hold before sinking. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
16 MONDAY
Sleigh-Ride Weekend: See January 14.
Stowe Winter Carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Hot Mama Workout: See December 8.
17 TUESDAY
Stowe Winter Carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Science & Stories: Ice: Kids get the skinny on
the cold stu through activities and crafts. Ages 2-6. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
18 WEDNESDAY
Stowe Winter Carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Hogwarts Reading Society: See December 14.
19 THURSDAY
Stowe Winter Carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Hot Mama Workout: See December 8.
Winter Mysteries: Small sleuths investigate what Vermont animals do during the colder months. Ages 3-5 with adult. Preregister. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10-11 a.m. $8 member adult with child, $4 additional child; $10 nonmember adult with child, $4 additional child. Info, 434-3068.
20 FRIDAY
Fairs & Festivals
Stowe Winter Carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
BRATTLEBORO MUSEUM & ART CENTER
‘VT Kids Design Glass’: This exhibit features creatures imagined by grade schoolers and sculpted by local artists. Sculptures will be auctioned o , the proceeds supporting BMAC’s work with kids.
Info, 257-0124
COLLINS-PERLEY SPORTS COMPLEX
Ice Time: Skaters and hockey players get their fix. Call or visit website for schedules.
Info, 527-1202
ECHO LAKE AQUARIUM AND SCIENCE CENTER
‘Grossology: The Impolite Science of the Human Body’: Back by popular demand, Grossology is a fun, colorful and informative exhibit grounded in the theory that the best way to get kids interested in science is to present it in terms they find most appealing — snot, vomit, gas and scabs. Exhibit ends January 8.
Info, 864-1848
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Jiggity Jog: Kids let music move them via song, instrument and dance. Ages 2-5. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.
Sign a Story: Calling all babies and toddlers: Join Amy as she reads stories while signing key words. Ages birth-4. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Youth Night: See December 16.
21 SATURDAY
Open House at The Children’s School: Parents meet teachers and explore the facility. Free. The Children’s School, South Burlington, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Info, 862-2772.
Stowe Winter Carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Fossils: Science enthusiasts handle fossilized remains and use clues to guess their origins. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Skulls: See December 11.
22 SUNDAY
Stowe Winter Carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Public Skating: An Olympic rink provides plenty of space for skaters of all skill levels. Times and dates subject to change, especially during school vacations.
FAIRBANKS MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM
‘Wildflower Table’: This living exhibit reflects the abundance and diversity of flowers, grasses, berries, ferns and evergreens found in the Northeast Kingdom. Kids are introduced to more than 400 species displayed throughout the year, in both fruit and flowering stages.
Info, 748-2372
INDEPENDENCE PETTING FARM
Animal Menagerie: Rain or shine, families visit, pet and feed a variety of animals at this educational, hands-on farm. Open daily, year round.
Info, 948-2429
JACKSON ARENA
Let’s Go Skating!: Sharpen your skates and dig out your hockey gear. Jackson Arena is open for public skating and stick time. Call and watch for the skate schedule in the Stowe Parks & Recreation e-newsletter; sign up by emailing recreation@townofstowevermont.org.
Info, 253-6148
Info, 862-8869
PBS KIDS GO!
This writing contest showcases little ones’ original stories and illustrations. The deadline for entries is March 16, 2012, and a winner and honorable mention from each grade level will be selected. Grades K-3. Free. Info, 655-4800.
Through the Eyes of Raptors: Kids who explore the natural world through the eyes of raptors are usually amazed by these efficient predators. Bird programs cover the mechanics of flight, seasonal migration and conservation issues.
‘Raptors up Close’: Little nature lovers discover the fascinating lives of birds in this exhibit featuring touchable artifacts and hands-on materials. Kids learn how hundreds of birds are rehabilitated each year and the fundamentals of how raptors are trained.
Info, 359-5000
Nature & Science
Gearing Up: See December 10.
Hoopster Gliders: See December 17.
23 MONDAY
Fairs & Festivals
stowe Winter carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Health & Fitness
Hot mama Workout: See December 8.
Library & Books
imagination Vacation: medieval Times: Creative kids make a scene complete with knights, castles and princesses. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 388-4097.
24 TUESDAY
Fairs & Festivals
stowe Winter carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Nature & Science
science & stories: Tracks: Children learn to look for the clues that animals leave behind in the snow. Ages 2-6. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
25 WEDNESDAY
Arts
Art safari: See December 28.
Education
Winter Parent Open House: Parents learn about the school and its holistic approach. Free. The Bellwether School, Williston, 6 p.m. Info, 863-4839.
Fairs & Festivals
stowe Winter carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Health & Fitness
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids open Gymnastics: See December 7.
26 THURSDAY
Fairs & Festivals
stowe Winter carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Health & Fitness
Hot mama Workout: See December 8.
Library & Books
Lego club: See December 8.
27 FRIDAY
Fairs & Festivals
stowe Winter carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Health & Fitness
Afternoon Hoops: See December 7.
Kids open Gymnastics: See December 7.
Library & Books
Nursery Rhyme music & movement: Local music wonder May Podushnick shares a few
ditties. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 388-4097.
28 SATURDAY Education
Winter Family open House: Prospective students and their parents check out a Waldorf education during tours, a presentation and crafts for little ones. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 985-2827.
shelburne Winterfest: Snow lovers enjoy a day of play, including sledding, sleighing and snacks. Shelburne Farms, noon-3 p.m. Donations encouraged for Shelburne Parks & Recreation Department. $2 sleigh ride. Info, 985-8686.
stowe Winter carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
Earth and space day: Curious kids and their families explore our place in the universe through a series of activities. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200. Wild dogs of the Winter Woods: Families explore the world of Vermont’s wild canines. Preregister. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10 a.m.-noon. Center admission. Info, 434-3068.
29 SUNDAY
Fairs & Festivals
ice on Fire Festival: The community pays tribute to winter with a parade, games, theater, singing and storytelling, and a bonfire. All ages. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 2-5 p.m. $1-$5 suggested donation. Info, 223-0577. stowe Winter carnival: See spotlight, page 31.
About Air: See December 11. Kitchen chemistry: Kiddos explore chemistry with household products. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
30 MONDAY
& Fitness
Hot mama Workout: See December 8.
31 TUESDAY
open House: Prospective students and parents explore classrooms and chat with students and staff. All ages. Preregister. Mater Christi School, Burlington, 8:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 658-3992.
science & stories: Beavers: Kids learn about the life and lodge of these dam builders. Ages 2-6. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 11 a.m. Museum admission. Info, 877-324-6386. K
submit your February events by January 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
MVP Health Care is proud to support wellness in all its forms by helping our whole community build a healthier future.
Living well is the goal. As individuals. And together.
OPEN A FRESH BOX OF CRAYONS, lean in and take a deep whi of that new-crayon smell. Ahhh. There’s nothing as satisfying as those neat rows of perfect points. But what if your kid’s crayons are broken nubs, worn down by heavy coloring? You can make it all better with a little oven treatment. Mix together the old, toosmall stubs and melt them down. The resulting implements — multicolored, reconstituted crayons shaped like bottle caps — look good enough to eat.
— KATE LADDISON1. Peel the paper off the crayons. (If the paper stubbornly resists peelings, soak the crayons in cold water for about 10 minutes.)
2. Chop the crayons into smallish pieces.
3. Place the chopped bits of crayons into the lined muffin cups.
4. Bake the crayons in a 250-degree oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the wax is melted.
• crayons
• a heavy knife
• a muffin or mini-muffin tin
• foil or glassine muffin-tin liners
5. Allow the tin to cool, then remove the crayons from the tin and the liner.
6. Go color like crazy.
You could also use candy molds to make crayons in fantastical shapes, but you’ll need to line the molds or consign them to crayonmaking permanently. Using full-size muffin tins results in colorful chunks that little hands will grab and grip easily. With older kids, experiment with other oven-safe household items for molds — tin cans, glass jars — and you can play with color mixing as well.
5 Days for the Price of 3
Buy a Powder Pass for just $199 for adults, $179 for youth/college/senior, and you’ll get four lift tickets that you can use any day this seasonwith no blackout dates. As a bonus, purchase your Powder Pass before December 23rd and you’ll receive an extra 5th lift ticket that can be used any time through December 25, 2011. That’s a total of five lift tickets for less than the price of three! *
Act fast! Prices go up after December 23rd.
*Comparison based on Adult holiday retail ticket price of $69.
Winter tends to drive celebrations indoors, where it’s warm and dry. But Mother Nature can still play a role. Here are some easy, inexpensive craft projects that bring the outside in.
For ages 3 and up: Snowy Handprint Tree
Supplies:
Regular, 8.5 x 11-inch white paper • Light-blue construction paper • Washable brown paint • Glue stick • Scissors • Granulated sugar
Cut the white paper in half horizontally. Make it a curvy cut, to simulate rolling hills. Glue the resulting white cut-out to the bottom of the lightblue paper.
Paint a child’s hand with brown paint and have the child spread out his or her fingers and press the palm and fingers onto the paper. Then, have the child use a finger to paint a tree trunk under the handprint.
Once the tree has dried, use the glue stick to apply glue to the branches and snowy field. For a snowstorm, make dots on the blue paper with the glue stick. Sprinkle granulated sugar on all gluey areas. Lift the paper and tap its edges to shake off the excess sugar.
pipe-cleaner half and use fishing line to hang this never-melting ice crystal as a holiday decoration.
ages
Supplies:
Wire hanger • Bow • White kitchen trash bags (four per wreath)
For ages 5
Supplies:
Six 12-inch-long white, iridescent pipe cleaners • Clear or sunburstcolored tri-beads • Fishing line
Cut six pipe cleaners in half to create 12 pieces. Gather 11 pieces together and tightly wrap the last pipe cleaner around the middle of the bundle; twist the ends to secure it. Bend the bundled pipe-cleaner pieces, spreading them into a sphere. Thread beads onto each
Cut the white trash bags horizontally into 2-inch wide strips. Cut those strips into six-inch pieces. (To save time, this step could be done before the party.) Elongate the triangular part of the hanger, shaping the wire into a circle. Tie each strip of bag onto the hanger, centering the knot so that equal amounts of strip are on either side of the knot. Use as many strips as you’d like, depending on how full of a wreath you’re aiming for. Finish with a bow and use the hook for hanging.
Sponsored by Zachary’s Family Fun center in South burlington
every month, birthday kids win prizes, and their picture appears in Kids VT to make their birthdays extra special!
samantha lives in barre and turns 8 in December. She likes gymnastics, skiing and ice skating.
Samantha wins a birthday party for eight at Zachary’s Family Fun Center!
Adelaide lives in northfield Falls and turns 4 in December. She likes to hike, garden, snowshoe, paint and read.
Emily lives in bristol and turns 12 in January. Her favorite sports are softball and field hockey, and she loves playing the piano.
Tyoka lives in milton and turns 10 in January. He loves to snowboard in the winter and swim in the summer.
To enter your kids, submit information using the online form at kidsvt. com/birthday-club.
Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birth dates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled in our Kids VT birthday club.
enjoy fun time with mom, dad or your favorite grown-up. The across clues are for kids and the down clues are for adults.
Kids Across
1. The pop rocker who had a big hit with “Girlfriend” in 2007: _____ Lavigne
6. smile!: by the end of 2010, more than one out of every two cell phones included a ______
7. soft stuff on the outside of your zhu zhu pet
9. On the internet, it’s the mark that comes before “com”
riddle search — Let’s study 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: How can you eat and study at the same time?
by HeLena HOvanec11. invented in 2002, these rubbery shoes are full of holes
13. an average teen by day, miley stewart becomes pop star Hannah _______ at night
15. unwanted email
16. Funny face: Taylor swift wore a ____ moustache in 2008 and 2010
17. in 2001, apple invented this little gadget to bring music to your ears
18. after more than 50 years, the company that makes silly putty still fills more than 20,000 _____ a day
20. Talent on Tv: simon cowell says he loved being a judge on ________ ____, which began in 2002 (2 wds)
2. Hooray for bollywood: Location of 2008’s “slumdog millionaire”
3. as demonstrated by Tv’s “Glee,” it’s song’s longtime partner
4. Launched in 2005, this video game series can bring out one’s inner rock star: Guitar ____
5. One annoying fad we’re glad got away: big mouth billy ____
7. What Jared gained when he lost over 200 pounds in the 2000s
8. cell phone user’s se lected serenade
10. in the 2000s, chai emerged as the hottest craze in ___
12. strictly classified: This online outfit made millions of job seekers and garage sale buffs go paperless
14. Trendy attire that might inspire one to lose lbs: ______ jeans
15. Fast-paced serial socializing for singles: _____ dating
17. High-end theater concept beloved by 3-D fans
19. Gates’ 2007 offering left many with Windows stressing
riddle answer:
23. This little dessert covered with frosting is just enough for one
24. What you put your Heelys on when you’re ready to roll
21. alma mater for “Today” anchor matt Lauer: abbr.
22. singer ricky martin’s autobiography, released
Send us your work of art by January 15
You could win a $25 gift certificate to Texas Roadhouse!
Be sure to include the info at right in your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8, and (3) ages 9-12. The best artwork will be featured on kidsvt.com, and winners will be named in the February issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.
BY KRISTIN FLETCHER
YEARS, Tchaikovsky has provided the soundtrack to my holiday season. It’s not enough that pieces from The Nutcracker are used incessantly in commercials at this time of year; as a participant in a production of the ballet, I’m hearing it all the rest of the time, too — even in my dreams.
Moving Light Dance Company, based in central Vermont, will bring The Nutcracker to life for the fifth year on December 17 and 18 at the Barre Opera House. I’ve been part of the cast since the beginning. I won’t be performing in the show this year, but I’ll be working backstage — directly below the stage, actually — coordinating the makeup room and helping the dancers get into character.
I got involved with Moving Light because my daughter started taking dance classes. I took tap and jazz when I was younger, but by eighth grade I’d moved on to team sports. I don’t remember wishing I’d continued, but when my daughter, Emily, started taking dance classes at Moving Light, I remembered how much fun it was.
I volunteered as a backstage mom, then as the makeup lady for semiannual productions. I also took dance classes myself. When Moving Light’s director asked me to join the first-act Christmasparty scene for the inaugural Green Mountain Nutcracker, I didn’t hesitate to say yes. One year, I was a party guest; later one of the hosts.
Tryouts and rehearsals start for the dancers in mid-September. The oldest girls in the program take regular classes and typically spend up to seven hours on Sundays rehearsing for the show.
I loved seeing it come together each year, but also cursed myself for making the commitment, which forced me to scale back my own plans for the holiday and spend the days before Christmas in a mad scramble. I’ll miss the adrenaline rush of the opening bars of the overture, but not the frenzy of production week: leaving the house at 8 a.m. for a regular workday and not returning home until 10:30 at night.
Some parents can roll with that kind of schedule disruption — easy going ones and the ones who are experts at planning ahead. I become preoccupied with feeding times and bedtimes and find myself starting countless sentences with, “If I were a better mom…” and ending them with “my kids would not be eating Cool Ranch Doritos for dinner.”
My daughter began dancing with Moving Light when she was 5. She’s 13 now and has switched her focus from ballet to modern. The leads in The Nutcracker are high school juniors and seniors, but they look much older, and more sophisticated, to me.
You can tell a lot about the expertise of the dancers by watching their faces during the show. The best ones betray no hint of e ort or concentration despite the difficulty of the steps they are executing and the thousands of prescribed movements that go into each piece of choreography.
Proper form alone takes years to master. Dancers hold themselves with their torsos lifted, while energy is sent down through the feet. Many perfectly timed steps combine to form the fancy footwork. That precision extends to the fingers, to the tilt of the head and, of course, to the point of the toe.
As the dancers progress from the little Polichinelles, scooting loosely from under Mother Ginger’s skirt in their colorful clown hats, to middle-school-age candymakers who open the second act, they begin to train their expressions. They may be smiling onstage, but you can tell from their faces that it’s yet another stage direction. There’s a lot to remember out there.
Then they take over as rats and soldiers and, in the Land of Sweets, as marzipan and flowers. The music carries them from step to step. Their faces are serene.
O stage, though, it’s a di erent story. Slick with sweat, they gasp for air as they race through a costume change for their next entrance. Sometimes they’re pleased; other times they’re critical, shaking their heads at a missed step or improper move. Then they step back onstage and their faces are serene again, radiating pure beauty.
The goal is to make extreme exertion look e ortless.
I think about them a lot this time of year. Like the dancers, with their feet grounded and their limbs extending beyond where the body ends, I often feel like I’m working in opposition to myself. I make grand plans and end up frustrated when I can’t pull them o to perfection, especially during the holidays.
Then I remember the darkened wings of the stage, the countless hours of preparation that turn persistence into magic and how grace comes from not worrying about the next step.
I reach for the peace in knowing that my imperfect presence is enough, and I set my face to joy.
The goal is to make extreme exertion look effortless.
