Kids VT, December 2014-January 2015

DOUBLE ISSUE

Sugar & Ice

Youth hockey leagues groom girls for bigger rinks

— Tom Wilson, actor/writer/comedian

DEC 2014 / JAN 2015

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS

Sugar & Ice

........... 18

Youth hockey leagues groom girls for bigger rinks

The Sisterhood of the Traveling

Pump .......... 22

Breastfeeding moms go to great lengths to go with the flow at work

Megan James megan@kidsvt.com ext. 73

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

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

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

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

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

• Published 11x per year.

Circulation: 25,000 at 600+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.

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

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Copy Editor Paula Routly

Proofreaders Marisa Keller Kathryn Wysockey-Johnson

Production Manager John James

Creative Director Don Eggert

Designers Aaron Shrewsbury

Rev. Diane Sullivan

Circulation Manager Matt Weiner

Business Manager Cheryl Brownell

Contributing Writers: Sarah Baughman, Thea Lewis, Mary Ann Lickteig, Ken Picard, Erinn Simon, Robert Stuhlmann, Elaine Young

Photographer: Matt Thorsen

Illustrator: Ian Webb

Photographer Matthew Thorsen hit the rink to capture the Chittenden South Burlington U8 girls’ hockey practice.

We’re in this together

One night last september, Daniel and I decided to let our infant daughter, Joni, “cry it out.” We didn’t have a plan; we were just desperate for sleep. So we kissed her goodnight, put her in the crib and left the room.

She cried for 95 agonizing minutes before I broke down, burst into her room and scooped her up. I nursed her, wrapping my body around hers as I whispered, “I’m so sorry.

I love you,” until she fell asleep.

We had intended to let her cry it out eventually — and we did, with much less drama and happier results, a month later. But Joni wasn’t ready that September night. And the next day, to my horror, we realized she was coming down with a cold.

I had left my sick baby to wail alone for an hour and a half. I felt like a monster.

Joni got over it, of course. But even now, I feel a hot flush of guilt when I think of that night.

The morning after our botched CIO attempt, I came into the office distraught. When Kids VT executive editor, copublisher and fellow parent Cathy Resmer asked me how I was doing, I told her, through tears, what had happened.

“That’s nothing,” she said. “Just wait ’til you discover all the other ways you can screw up your kids!” And we both laughed.

Overhearing our conversation, another mom chimed in. “She won’t remember it,” she assured me. “You love her, right? That’s what counts. You’re doing the best you can.”

Sometimes that’s all you can do, because parenting is an unpredictable, emotionally

nutso job. I’m reminded of that every month as I edit stories for Kids VT In this double issue, talk to working moms who

several times a day so they can provide their babies with breast milk

(“The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pump,” page 22). We ask dads if they worry about guns in the homes where their kids play (“Go Ask Dad,” page 16). And in an essay about his son with Down syndrome (“Rising Son,” page 55), Robert Stuhlmann acknowledges one of the hardest and craziest things about parenting: We can’t control how our kids turn out — and that’s OK.

I hope that reading these stories makes you feel the way did when I shared my experience with other mothers in my office: uplifted, connected and eager to keep doing the best you can.

Megan JaMes, Managing editor

Some of this month’s Kids VT contributors:

Sarah Baughman (“Fit Families”) teaches high school English for the Brattleboro-based distance-learning school Oak Meadow. She lives in Irasburg with her family.

Robert Stuhlmann (“Use Your Words”) is a retired Episcopal priest. He lives with his wife, Jean Guenther, in Burlington, and has three grown children. He blogs regularly at storiesfromapriestlylife.wordpress.com.

Joni and Megan in the Kids VT Lactation Lounge.

Auditions

ReadersRespond

Rose Knows

Ken Picard’s November profile of Maris Rose [“Rose Knows: A child behaviorial expert teaches parents the dos and don’ts of discipline”] moved readers to rave about their experiences with the child-behavior expert.

Maris is one of the most gifted teachers I’ve ever known. She has been a huge blessing to so many children!

PAMELA BURTON-MACAULEY CHARLOTTE

So thankful Maris was part of my childrens’ lives!

AMY MELNICK MACKAY WILLISTON

Maris is amazing! There are no words adequate enough to describe her magic.

SHERAMY TSAI SOUTH BURLINGTON

Book Winner

Lucas Cannizzaro was one of the November winners of the Kids VT book-review contest. His mom wrote to tell us how thrilled he was to cash in on his prize: a gift certificate to Crow Bookshop in Burlington.

Lucas was so excited to spend his $25! He bought four books for himself: two Magic Tree House books and two Stepping Stones chapter books, The Secret Garden and Earth Magic. And he bought two books for his 3-and-a-half-year-old sister. She wants to do everything her big brother is doing — so she chose two Magic Tree House books!

THAMAR MULLER

Young performers from all over the state stepped up to the Higher Ground stage in November. They were vying for a spot in the firstever Kids VT Spectacular Spectacular, a talent show for Vermont’s rising stars — and they sure did impress! More than 50 kids sang, danced, played instruments, performed comedy sketches and generally poured their hearts out before three discerning judges. Before they left, photographer Matthew Thorsen snapped headshots of the all the kids who auditioned.

The big show is SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 AT HIGHER GROUND; doors open at noon, the show’s at 12:30 p.m. Check out the lineup of performers and get ticket information at kidsvt.com/talentshow

Gwen Lybarger, Emma Trombley, Grace Bendoski, Bridget O’Keefe, Daria NormanWehmeyer

Lincoln Safran

Ella Grace Holter

Skylar Clarke, Ariel Felcan, Nora Jacobsen, & Claire Osmond

Parrish & Jazaher Cormier

Chasey Knight

Li Lin Weinberger

Benjamin Weinstein

Savannah Mckee

Bestofthe Kids VTBlog

On the Fly: Food & Love

BY JESSICA LARA TICKTIN

Kids VT contributor Jessica Lara Ticktin is traveling the world with her family, homeschooling three daughters along the way — while pregnant. Since September she has documented her family’s adventures on this four-month trip.

Arriving in Cape Town, South Africa, felt like a momentous occasion. We had made it through Asia’s challenges and were almost halfway through our trip. It also felt like a big deal because this was the place where many things

began. In our family, anyway.

COLORING CONTEST

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

Read more at kidsvt.com.

Cape Town is the birthplace of my maternal grandmother and my father. It’s also where I met and fell madly in love with Adam, in June of 1998. Adam and I were transformed as much by our passion for this beautiful, complicated, troubled, inspiring place as by our love for each other. The backdrop of our love was the new South Africa, a country full of hope and expectation only four years post-apartheid. Our oldest daughter’s middle name is Hope, named for this extraordinary time in our life and South Africa’s history…

Williston mom Angela Arsenault chronicles her unusal date nights with her husband, Ryan Miller, in a series called “WILL YOU GO OUT WITH ME?” Read about their latest adventure, a trip to the Satori Float Spa in Shelburne, at kidsvt.com.

Home Cookin’: Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

BY ERINN SIMON

I love Thanksgiving. Since my extended family is fairly spread out geographically, it’s sometimes the only time we get together all year. There’s fantastic food, and many, many loved ones to enjoy it with. So why not start a baking tradition with my kiddos that we can share with the folks we love most, when there’s more time to savor it?

I turned to the best — Martha Stewart — for inspiration, and came up with a winner: pumpkin whoopie pies.

Find the recipe at kidsvt.com.

My kids loved the idea of making the cream-filled confections to share with their aunts, uncles and cousins. I made a few adaptations to suit my own taste preferences, and I’m happy to report: They were amazing...

More than 100 young artists submitted coloring contest entries in November, and 6-year-old Alyssa Bittner’s title perfectly captures their theme: “Beaver Fever!” We continue to be amazed by the way participants embellish and transform each month’s animal. Noah Rubel equipped his rodent with baseball cap and bat. Ava Goyette added a distinctive beard and stovepipe hat to make a furry Abraham Lincoln. Ella Bird Matarazzo’s beaver-turned-monk was a revelation. Keep the creativity coming, and congratulations to all the winners!

HONORABLE MENTIONS

SILLY BILLY

Avery Lozier, 3, Georgia

CHEEKY CHECKERS

Naomi Myers, 8, South Burlington

SPORTY SENSATION

Noah Rubel, 11, Barre

ANYTHING BUT NORMAL

Willa Long, 8, Washington

PRIESTLY BEAST

Ella Bird Matarazzo, 7, South Hero

GRAY-SCALE GREAT

Amelie Scharf, 9, Shelburne

LINCOLN’S LOG

Ava Goyette, 10, South Burlington

PRETTY IN PINK

Fiona McCormick, 5, Hinesburg

THE DARK HORSE

Samuel Scott, 2, Colchester

WINTRY MIX

Juniper Rinehart, 5, Richmond

SHERBET STYLE

Ruby Perham, 8, Hyde Park

BEACHY KEEN

Aranne Jung, 8, South Burlington

TOP TITLES

“CHOMPY CHOMPY”

Riordan Adams, 5, Essex Junction

“THE TAIL END OF THE RAINBOW”

Aero Brunell, 6, Newport

“BEAVER FEVER”

Alyssa Bittner, 6, Swanton

Eliza Lynch, 5 ESSEX JUNCTION “Mr. Confused”

Tess Adams, 7 ESSEX JUNCTION “Captain Beaver”

Eva Goodwin, 10 MIDDLESEX “The Feasting Pilgrim”

Find this month’s coloring contest on page 54. The deadline for submissions is January 15.

THE BEAT

HEALTH

Birth Marks

When the March of Dimes released its 2014 PREMATURE BIRTH REPORT CARD in November, Vermont was one of just five states that earned an “A.” According to the report, in 2013, Vermont had the lowest premature birth rate in the country. Just 8.1 percent of Vermont babies were born prematurely, spending less than 37 weeks in utero; that’s well below the national average of 11.4 percent. The nonprofit foundation notes that babies born early run a higher risk of developing a wide range of health problems. Vermont’s A rating means healthier babies and lower health care costs.

ANIMALS Meet the Mammals

Want to hang out with an arctic fox? Pet a Siberian husky? Say hello to a reindeer? Get over to ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center in December for ILLUMINATE THE LAKE. The 19-day festival includes twinkling light shows and daily activities exploring the winter lives of Vermont’s fish, turtles, frogs and snakes. The best part? Each Saturday, live mammals star in special interactive programs. ECHO’s director of animal care, Steve Smith, says the visiting skunks, groundhogs and porcupines “will help us tell a deeper story of winter, survival and the history of these animals and their habitats.” — M.J.

BY MEGAN JAMES, MARY ANN LICKTEIG AND CATHY RESMER

EDUCATION

Different Strokes

2014 PREMATURE BIRTH REPORT CARD: Find the report at marchofdimes. org/reportcard.

ILLUMINATE THE LAKE: Saturday, December 13, through Wednesday, December 31, at ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center in Burlington. Animal demonstrations are at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. each Saturday. Regular admission price: $13.50 for adults; $10.50 for children ages 3 to 17; free for children 2 and under. echovermont.org

VERMONT’S 2015 TEACHER OF THE YEAR, Rebecca Haslam, wants to talk about teachers’ “cultural competency” — the ability to interact with people from di erent cultures and backgrounds “in a way that’s respectful and inclusive, and that considers the perspectives and experiences of those around you who are di erent from you,” she says. The Champlain Elementary School first-grade teacher is helping to develop the “equity conversations” the Burlington district requires for professional development. Topics include white privilege; gender identity and expression; and teachers’ personal biases and how they a ect student achievement. Collectively, the Queen City’s students are 35 percent nonwhite and speak 47 di erent languages at home. They represent various economic backgrounds and gender identities. Their best shot to experience equal opportunity is in school, Haslam says. “Public education really is the foundation of democracy.” — M.A.L.

2015 TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Learn more at education.vermont.gov

eaT. Learn. PLay.

NEW FOR WINTER 2015 YOUTH LEASE PROGRAM

CHOPPER SNOWBOARD, GROM BOOT, GROM BINDING INCLUDES A LEARNERS PERMIT PACKAGE GOOD FOR 3 BEGINNERS LESSONS FROM SMUGGLERS NOTCH AND MORE!

film Camera Rolling

Quick, come up with a spy story featuring the following: a character who dies shortly after being introduced, a black-and-white photo of Ian McKellen, and the line, “Not since the accident...” Those were the prompts for this fall’s 50hour sTudenT film conTesT, a twice-yearly competition for middle and high school students from Vermont and New York. Teams had one weekend in which to write, shoot and edit a short movie including those details. “It was certainly a challenge,” says event organizer Nick Gordon, who participated in the contest when he was a student at Essex High School several years ago. “It’s very difficult to pull off a short film, but it’s rewarding. If you have the chance to see your film in a movie theater, that’s pretty cool.” — M.J.

50-hour sTudenT film conTesT: The premiere and awards night is Tuesday, December 9, 7 p.m., at Merrill’s Roxy Cinemas in Burlington. fiftyhourfilm.com

BooKs Boo-tiful Journey

Even reluctant young readers will find it hard to resist Johnny Boo Zooms To The moon!, a colorful new graphic novel from Burlington cartoonist and dad James Kochalka. This sixth installment in Kochalka’s Johnny Boo series follows the young ghost as he attempts to skateboard to the moon, pulled by his pet ghost, Squiggle. Kochalka, Vermont’s first cartoonist laureate, is better known for his adult-themed comics, one of which has a name too racy to publish here. The continuing adventures of Johnny Boo prove that Kochalka’s an all-ages artist. — C.R.

CHECK OUT OUR YOUTH SNOWBOARDING LEASE PROGRAM NOW AVAILABLE FOR KIDS AGED 7 AND UNDER.

Johnny Boo Zooms To The moon!: By James Kochalka. Published by Top Shelf Productions, 40 pages, $9.95.

Kayhl Cooper, Connor Geer and Adam Turner took home an award last year for Best Cinematography.

CHIlDrEn ArE nATUrAlly InqUISITIVE about their own and other people’s bodies. Experts say innocent exploration is a healthy part of early-childhood development. Still, many parents are flustered if they find children “playing doctor.” This month, Dr. Mary Ann Donnelly-DeBay, a child psychologist in the Winooski School District, offers tips for handling those awkward situations.

KIDS VT: When should parents begin talking with their kids about sexual reproduction?

MARY ANN DONNELLY-DEBAY: The idea is to start this conversation from the get-go. We know some kids fondle themselves in utero. When a boy’s diaper is being changed, an older sibling might see an erection and ask about it, or see mommy’s breasts and ask, “What are those?” Their curiosity starts very early.

KVT: What should parents do if they discover their 4- or 5-year-old undressing with a friend?

MADD: That’s pretty normal behavior at 4 and 5. When they get to school, they realize that some things are private. So, if you’ve got a 10-year-old running down the street naked, that’s a lot different from having a 5-year-old who’s doing it. As kids mature, they pick up cues from adults.

KVT: Should adults interrupt such play?

MADD: It depends on the age of the child and the nature of the play. It’s important for parents and caregivers to react positively to children’s consensual sexual play. But if you’re thinking, This is more than I would expect from a kid this age, it’s worth talking to a pediatrician. If you walk in on two 5-year-olds playing doctor, they’d be exploring their bodies in a very normal and innocent way.

Healthy sex play is always noncoercive, mutual and between children of similar ages. When the ages between the children become greater, there are potential issues of exploitation because the older child is in a position to manipulate the younger child.

KVT: What if a parent discovers a child masturbating?

MADD: Some young children fondle themselves because their anxiety levels are high and it relieves their stress. If they’re

Got questions for the doctor?

Send

masturbating more often than you would expect, it might be worth talking with them about finding another way to relieve their anxiety.

Sometimes, kids exhibit overly sexualized behavior for their age if they’ve seen pornographic material or seen adults engaging in sex acts. In that case, a parent would want to intervene — not by telling them, “Your eyes will fall out,” but by stopping and redirecting the behavior in the moment. Then the parent should talk to the child’s health care provider.

KVT: Any advice for parents who find talking about such topics uncomfortable?

MADD: Read. One book I love, which is great for younger kids, is called I t’s So Amazing: A Book About Eggs, Sperm, Birth, Babies and Families . A terrific book for older kids is It’s Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, and Sexual Health

KVT: Do you recommend using anatomically correct terms?

MADD: Absolutely. When a child of 2 or 3 asks, “What’s that?” give them the correct term. It will help you later on, when you’re educating them about keeping their bodies safe and not letting other people touch them. Kids who can’t even describe their own body parts have a much harder time understanding this stuff. It’s never too late to start these conversations, but the longer you wait, the more difficult it is to begin. K

how should parents react if they discover kids exploring their bodies — or someone else's?

By Sarah Baughman

Karate

Japan is on the other side of the world from the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. But each Friday night, Japanese flags hang from the ceiling of the Glover Town Hall during family karate class, transforming it into the Dynamic Defensive Dojo.

At a recent session, four adults and one teenager practice their kata, a series of movements, gliding quickly across the floor in unison. They’re preparing for their next belt tests, which allow them to

Families can build a bond training together.

progress to higher levels of karate mastery. They step and spin across the floor, hands moving before their faces in a series of strikes and blocks. Their motions are smooth, controlled and as graceful as they are powerful.

“This is a very family-friendly dojo,” says Tim Goad, the sensei, or teacher, of the class, which welcomes all ages. “Families can build a bond training together.”

Goad and his students practice Shotokan karate, a style known for focusing equally on feet and hand movements. Although it can be difficult, this martial art is built upon a simple theory: “The straight line of movement is the most powerful,” Goad explains.

In addition to the kata, which students practice during every class, Goad also integrates speed drills, plyometrics (jump training), foot-hand-eye coordination moves and circuit training to build his students’ strength and balance. For younger children, he uses games to encourage these skills. Wearing protective gear, students also practice carefully controlled sparring.

Family, Goad says, is the key to helping children stick with the sport. “Kids whose parents are involved, who have positive encouragement, are the most likely to continue with karate,” he says.

Students don’t just learn from their sensei, but from each other. Goad encourages his more advanced pupils to help those in a lower belt level, creating a

ready to Go to the dojo?

Karate family class meets from 6:30-8 p.m. on mondays and Fridays at the glover Town hall. Or catch the children’s class for ages 3-12 on Fridays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. monthly rates are $30 for one person; $50 for 2 people; $75 for a family of three or more. an additional $10 registration fee is charged each year.

For more information, find the Dynamic Defensive Dojo on Facebook, or contact Sensei Tim goad at 323-9851.

collaborative environment. “When people teach something,” he says, “they become better at doing it.”

Goad has taught karate for more than 25 years in Vermont; his fourth-degree black belt — of a possible five — puts him at nearly top rank. He makes his students work hard while emphasizing the importance of treating their bodies well.

“I love to see the progression,” says Goad. “To see a kid with no balance develop amazing balance, to watch the

growth as a human being — it’s really impressive.”

Karate’s benefits aren’t just physical. A code of ethics forms the basis of this martial art. Students are taught to seek perfection of character, honor the path of truth, display courtesy, endeavor to excel and refrain from violent behavior.

“What gives karate a bad name is the media,” says Goad. “It’s actually the opposite of violent.”

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

tiM Goad

Wintry Reads

In celebration of the year’s chilliest months, Kids VT asked outdoor educators to recommend great, winter-themed reads.

When Winter Comes

BY NANCY VAN LAAN

ILLUSTRATED BY SUSAN

GABER

When winter’s first snowflakes start flying, a family bundles up and heads outside with their dog. They explore what happens to flowers, fish, deer, birds, caterpillars and people during the coldest season.

Ages 3-8

Write-Your-Own Contest Winners

“This book’s beautiful pictures and poetic words will inspire you to go on your own outdoor adventure in search of life in the snow,” says Shelburne Farms family programs coordinator Cat

Over and Under the Snow

BY KATE MESSNER

ILLUSTRATED BY CHRISTOPHER SILAS

NEAL

Children learn about “the secret kingdom beneath the snow” in this picture book by a local author. A young girl and her father explore the forest on skis, searching for signs of animals. Several pages in the back of the book provide more information about the creatures featured in the story.

Ages 1+

This “timeless” book is a great choice for young and older children, says Amy Butler, director of education at the North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier. “It is packed full of simple science concepts” relevant to the winter landscape of Vermont, and “supported with beautiful, descriptive language,” she adds.

Grandmother Winter

BY PHYLLIS ROOT

ILLUSTRATED BY BETH KROMMES

This simple nature fable, inspired by a German folktale, explores the preparations Grandmother Winter undertakes during spring, summer and fall to bring about snow. Beth Krommes conveys the magic of winter in her scratchboard and watercolor illustrations, which depict minnows swimming under pond ice, mice sleeping tails to nose and six-pointed flakes.

Ages 4-8

“Grandmother Winter spins a cozy tale of the changing seasons and adaptations both wildlife and humans make to weather the winter,” says Gwendolyn Causer, the coordinator of public programs for Audubon Vermont. The illustrations are “richly detailed,” she adds, and “Root’s rhythmic text makes for a wonderful read-aloud.”

We tried something new with our Book Review contest last month: We renamed it Write Your Own and asked kids to pen creative stories inspired by Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. We received numerous responses and loved reading about all the silly and unfortunate stu that happened on these kids’ imagined bad days. We picked four winners, each of whom wins a $25 gift certificate from Crow Bookshop in Burlington. And we chose one story to share, below.

“When I woke up in the morning, I knew it was going to be a bad day. First, I tripped on my own clothes. Second, I stumbled on the stairs on my way down. When I got down, my breakfast was cold. It was raining at the bus stop and when I got to school, I realized I hadn’t done my homework! At math time, there was a test and I failed: 0 out of 30. At recess, I tripped on a rock and got a bloody nose. When it was time to go home, I forgot my homework at school and had to go back. What a bad day!”

Andy Yang, 10

SOUTH BURLINGTON

Other winners:

Hannah Stein, 8 CHARLOTTE

Marissa Johnson, 9 VERGENNES

Evan Knoth, 10

SOUTH BURLINGTON

Wright.

Q DIGITAL DILEMMAS

By ELAINE y OUNG

A:It’s no wonder you’re overwhelmed! It can be tough to find something that’s fun, educational, affordable and capable of holding your child’s interest over time.

First, think about your daughter’s interests. Does she like to read? Does she like games? Does she like to create things with her hands?

Next, think carefully about the type of play the toy will encourage. Is your family trying to manage screen time?

try the Fire HD Kids Edition. It’s built specifically for children, filled with kid-friendly books, movies, TV shows, educational apps and games, and it has good parental controls. A two-year guarantee means you won’t worry about it breaking.

GoLDIEBLox (ages 4 to 12): Does your daughter like building and dolls? These engineering-inspired problem-solving kits, which are marketed directly to girls, come with an engineer doll named Goldie. The toy encourages children to build things — a zip line, a movie machine, a dunk tank — and then play with Goldie in what they’ve built. Some kits connect to a smartphone through an iOS app.

LEG o M I n DSTor MS EV3 (ages 10 and up): Aspiring programmers bring Legos to life. After you build these Lego robots, downloadable software and online tools help you and your child learn how to program them. Follow the templates, get inspired by others in the online community, or create your own designs.

Many tech toys on the market pair with an iOS or Android app. Do you want your child to connect to a smartphone yet?

Finally, are you looking for a toy that simply entertains, or do you want it to teach her something, too?

Here are my recommendations for tech-enabled toys that will keep your child engaged far into 2015.

A MA zon F I r E HD K IDS E DITI on (ages 3 to 10): If your child is a reader and explorer who wants her own tablet,

ozoBoT (ages 5 and up): Control this little spherical robot by drawing lines on paper, an iPad or an Android tablet. The color of the lines determines the action the Ozobot takes. Build racetracks, create choreographed movements and have fun!

LITTLEBITS (ages 8 and up): Tinkerers can use these “plug and play” electronic nodes to build, well, almost anything. An online “makerhub” and lab provide inspiration and ideas.

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

QMy daughter’s birthday is in January, so I need back-to-back gifts this time of year. I’m looking for a tech toy that’s high quality, but not too pricey, fun but educational. I’m overwhelmed!

to 5 minutes). Immediately remove from heat; refrigerate 30 minutes. Heat oven to 350°F. Combine browned butter, sugar, egg and vanilla in large bowl. Beat at medium speed until well mixed. Continue beating, gradually adding flour, until well mixed. Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Roll balls in decorator sugars. Place 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten with tines of fork. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Let stand 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets. Cool completely.

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN IN DECEMBER

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

Maple-Roasted Chicken

seVen years ago, celebrity chef Jamie Oliver convinced me to buy and cook a whole chicken. A former vegetarian, I felt strongly that if I was going to continue life as a meat eater, this was a skill I had to learn. Reading the laid-back and reassuring instructions in Oliver’s book, Jamie’s Dinners, gave me the confidence to take on the process — even though raw meat still made me squeamish.

I marched into Hannaford, determined. But when I picked up the shrinkwrapped bird, I shuddered. It was heavy, kind of floppy and still recognizable as the animal it had been. I frowned at it for a moment, then steeled myself and put it in the cart.

At home, I set to work. I removed the bird from its plastic casing, took a deep breath, poked my hand into the chicken and found — to my relief — that the organs were sealed inside a bag, which I pulled out. Next, I rubbed the bird inside and out with kosher salt and olive oil. I cut a lemon in two, stuffed half of it into the cavity and squeezed the juice from the other half over the top. Then I put the chicken in the oven and hoped for the best.

It was a little dry, under-seasoned and not quite as crispy as I’d hoped it would be. But that first attempt was a game-changer. My family ate it with potatoes — roasted right in the same pan — and a salad. Everyone loved it. At the time, it was the most grown-up dinner I’d ever made. Even now, I still feel a sense of pride and accomplishment whenever

I take a lovely, golden chicken out of the oven and serve it to my family.

In any dinner-themed cookbook, you’re bound to find a recipe for roasted chicken. And with good reason: It’s a classic. The best part? It works for just about any occasion. You can cook one for a big holiday get-together or a regular old family dinner.

My culinary idol, Nigella Lawson, summed it up best in her book, Feast: “It’s less a recipe than a blueprint for life. There are few things that can’t be made better by a chicken roasting in the oven.”

I probably cook this dish every other week during the cold-weather months. I have tried at least a dozen methods, but the one that follows is my favorite. It uses a lemon, my one non-negotiable roastedchicken ingredient, and has a surprising, Vermonty twist. K

Adapted from eat and make: charming recipes and Kitchen crafts you Will Love, by Paul Lowe

ingredienTs:

1 whole chicken (organic if possible), 3 ½-4 pounds

1 lemon, cut in half

6 shallots, peeled and halved

¼ cup olive oil, plus some more for rubbing the chicken

Salt and black pepper

4 or 5 medium white potatoes, cut into 1- to 2-inch pieces

½ cup maple syrup

direcTions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. remove any organs from the chicken’s cavity.

rinse the chicken in cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.

Put both lemon halves and two shallots inside the cavity and tie the chicken’s legs together with kitchen string.

rub the chicken all over with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Place the chicken in the center of a roasting pan, and scatter the potatoes and remaining shallots around it, then drizzle a little olive oil over them.

roast for 30 minutes, then take it out and pour the maple syrup and the ¼ cup olive oil over the top.

Lower the oven temp to 375 degrees, and continue to roast for another 45-50 minutes.

use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature

of the bird. insert it into a thigh, making sure not to touch bone. When you get a reading of 165 degrees, the chicken is done. Feel free to give it an extra few minutes if you want the color darker or the skin a bit crispier (i usually do!). Take it out of the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving.

Serve with a green salad.

maple-roasTed chicKen (serVes 4)

Sadie Simon

Jason smiley, mILtOn compliance specialisT, dealer.com Daughters Kyra, 20, and Hannah, 7

About a month ago, someone I know was asked by another father whether he keeps handguns in his home. My friend was pretty surprised by the question, and honestly, I never really considered the issue either until that point.

I do think it’s good to know if someone has guns in the house, and, if so, whether they’re kept out of reach and safely under lock and key. I am a hunter, and I have guns. Mine are kept doubly safe because they’re not only locked up, they also have trigger locks.

Jason roache, esseX

firsT-line mainTenance manager, iBm

Daughter Ellie, 7; son Jacob, 5

My kids have made most of their friends through soccer — I’m the coach. I’ve known these families for a while, and my wife and I both feel safe allowing the kids to have play dates at their houses. The issue of guns is not something I really think about.

I have a recreational rifle, and I also have a small handgun that belonged to my father, who brought it back from Vietnam. When the firearms were at my house, I kept everything separate — guns in one place, bullets in another. I don’t keep my guns at the house anymore, though. Ever since Jacob expressed an interest in playing with toy guns about a year ago, I have kept everything at my in-laws’.

But the kids have seen my rifle. And around October and November, when I go hunting, I talk with my own kids about gun safety. I’ve told Jacob never to point a gun at someone.

Jamie polli, sOutH burLIngtOn

eVenT planner, gameshowsVT Daughters Celia, 9, and Shayla, 1

My daughter, Celia, and I sometimes do an activity using the whiteboard in our playroom. It’s actually a lesson in disguise. Several years ago, we explored the topic “Things to stay away from or not touch.” I’d put pictures on the board, and she would have to identify what each one was — a bottle of blue Windex, sharp scissors, matches, lighters and a handgun.

I made a game out of it. That’s the way I dealt with guns with her. In terms of other kids’ parents, though, I haven’t asked anything about guns. We live in a condo development, and there are four girls, all friends who hang out at each other’s houses, mine included. It’s a great neighborhood, and we have a wonderful camaraderie. Every night we all go out to the curb at 5 p.m. and chat. But do I know them well enough to know if there’s a handgun in their homes? Probably not.

Have you ever asked the parents of your kids’ friends if they keep guns in the house?

It’s good to know if someone has guns in the house, and, if so, whether they’re kept out of reach and safely under lock and key.

Jason smiley

Paper Engineering

CAN

KIDS

LEARN MATH, science

and engineering concepts by folding and cutting paper? Architect Allyson Hutton thinks so.

The Hanover, N.H.-based mom of two had a hand in designing the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut and the Duke University Athletic Center. Four years ago, she was invited to teach her daughter’s fourth-grade class about architecture. Hutton accepted the challenge and took it one step further.

including those with behavioral and academic challenges.

The lessons are engaging for adults, too. During the Vermont Afterschool Conference in Stowe in October, I tried some of the Think 3D! challenges. They weren’t easy. I had to use some real brainpower to figure out how to transform a piece of origami paper into a hopping frog and a folded piece of cardstock into a pop-up card.

Think 3D! is also appealing because it aligns with Common Core and Next Generation Science standards. And

science — Hutton created a three-year curriculum that introduces third-

Inspired by the PBS documentary Between the Folds — which explores the connections between paper folding and science — Hutton created a three-year curriculum that introduces thirdthrough fifth-graders to architectural concepts including composing, decomposing, scaling up and down and using proportional reasoning. In 2012, she started a company called Think 3D! to teach elementary-age kids STEM-related skills through the simple processes of folding and cutting paper.

Each of her program’s three modules includes six one-hour lessons. Students start with basic origami before advancing to reverseengineering tasks, in which they take apart a 3D model and figure out how to rebuild it.

origami before advancing to reverseengineering tasks, in which they

Next, they learn single-sheet paper to a foundation page the sequence of lessons compelling lessons that would “cast a broad net”

Next, they learn single-sheet engineering — folding and cutting a piece of paper to create a model. The module finishes with applied paper engineering, which involves gluing pieces of paper to a foundation page to make pop-up creations. As students progress, the sequence of lessons remains the same but the tasks become more sophisticated.

When creating the program, Hutton says, she set out to design compelling lessons that would “cast a broad net” and engage kids at all skill levels,

it’s an approach to teaching spatialreasoning and engineering that’s intentionally low-tech, no computer required. Schools don’t have to invest heavily in new technology to use it.

reasoning and engineering that’s intentionally low-tech, no computer

heavily in new technology to use it. A 2013 study published in strong spatial reasoning skills may be a greater predictor of future than proficiency in math or reading. But most schools don’t reasoning. When Hutton visits schools, she points out that these skills have

A 2013 study published in Psychological Science found that strong spatial reasoning skills may be a greater predictor of future creativity and innovation than proficiency in math or reading. But most schools don’t explicitly teach spatial reasoning. When Hutton visits schools, she points out that these skills have countless applications, from visualizing the brain through an MRI to reading a contour map.

well as in Hanover, N.H., and Brooklyn, N.Y., with plans to develop more instructional materials and expand its reach in the near future. Think 3D! recently received a three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education to assess the curriculum’s e ectiveness. The company’s director of research and assessment, Holly Taylor — who runs the Spatial Cognition Laboratory at Tufts University — is spearheading that task.

from visualizing the brain through an MRI to

Packaging the curriculum was also important to the architect, who wanted to reinforce the importance of design. Each lesson comes in a sleek sleeve that contains all the necessary materials, including a onepage sheet of directions for the teacher.

Becky French, a fourth-grade teacher at Marion Cross School in Norwich, is a big fan of the program. Last year, her students participated in Think 3D! sessions once a week for six weeks. The program, she said, was well organized. And because the materials weren’t “precious,” kids were encouraged to persist until they were successful.

reinforce the importance all the necessary materials, including a onepage sheet of directions for the teacher.

After completing some of the preset challenges, French’s kids had the opportunity to “venture into their imaginations to make 3D structures that interested them,” she said, noting that some of her students made 3D versions of the Frozen cast.

Hutton has implemented the program in two Vermont elementary schools — in Norwich and Ludlow — as

Hutton has implemented the program in two Vermont elementary schools — in Norwich and Ludlow — as

“What we’re sharing with the kids is a set of tools,” Hutton says. “If you have those tools, this program will never be too easy for you. There’s no limit.”

A Think 3D! student in Hanover, New Hampshire

A Think 3D! student in Brooklyn, New York

Sugar & Ice

Youth hockey leagues groom girls for bigger rinks

BY ALISON NOVAK PHOTOS BY MATTHEW THORSEN

It’s the first game of the season for the Chittenden South Burlington U8 girls hockey team. The U8, or 8-and-under, team is made up of 6- to 8-year-olds, but only the 10 most experienced girls are playing today. Their opponents, a coed team from Lyndonville, traveled all the way to Cairns Arena in South Burlington for the match.

Hockey games at this level are cross-ice — played on half the rink — with just three players and a goalie per side and no score keeping. And they’re fast-paced: Every 90 seconds, a new trio of players rotates onto the ice. As the skaters scramble and slide around, the benched girls rhythmically pound their sticks on the Plexiglas that separates them from the action, shouting “Let’s go, CSB!”

In the stands, their parents are just as boisterous. “Come on, girls!” they shout, their eyes fixed on the ice. “Nice job!” “Good race, Ava!” “Stick with it, Sunshine!”

Stick with it: That’s exactly what coaches around the state are trying to get girls to do. Hockey is a

popular sport in wintry Vermont. But it’s also a traditionally male-dominated one, with a reputation for being aggressive. Despite the enthusiasm on display at Cairns, parents and coaches say that convincing young female players to commit to hockey can be a challenge.

“For boys, you don’t have to do the work,” says John Maddalena, who coaches the Essex High School girls’ hockey team. “For girls, if you don’t get them hooked, they’re not going to play.”

Maddalena saw this firsthand. When his 10-yearold daughter, Nielsa, was younger, she had to play hockey on a coed team with her brother because there weren’t enough players to form an all-girls team. “She really lost interest for a couple of years,” he says.

That’s not uncommon, says Scott Bushweller, girls hockey director of CSB, which has 80 female players. He often hears about girls dropping out of the sport between the ages of 6 and 10. It’s not because they don’t like hockey; it’s because they

don’t like how boys tend to monopolize the ice and they’d prefer to be on a team with just girls, he theorizes.

That’s why he started the all-girls U8 team, which draws participants from South Burlington, Shelburne, Charlotte, Williston, St. George and Hinesburg. Three years later, there are two dozen players on the roster.

“I have had so many parents come up to me and thank me for having the U8 girls program, because their daughter would not have tried hockey if it meant playing with the boys,” Bushweller says.

If it’s so hard to get girls to play, why bother encouraging them?

Taylor Hallowell, an Essex High School ice hockey alum who’s now a sophomore at Amherst College — and plays for that school’s field hockey team — says the sport had a lasting e ect on her.

“I think that playing hockey as a young girl helped shape my competitive personality that has lead to

There’s something really powerful for girls playing hockey. It makes them feel invincible.

JULIE MILLER-JOHNSON, ESSEX YOUTH HOCKEY ASSOCIATION WOMEN’S DIRECTOR

some of my successes in life,” she says. “I remember feeling like I wanted to prove myself, and that mentality carried over into other areas, like school.”

Julie Miller-Johnson, women’s director of the Essex Youth Hockey Association and mom to a 13-year-old, hockey-playing daughter, says that watching girls play is inspiring. “They develop a sense of self-confidence and self-esteem and physical strength that will serve them their whole life,” she says. “They walk o the ice feeling they stand two inches taller.”

Is it the gear? The speed? The ice? Whatever it is, Miller-Johnson says, “There’s something really powerful for girls playing hockey. It makes them feel invincible.”

A Winning Approach

Hockey definitely has some drawbacks. It’s “allconsuming” for everyone involved, says MillerJohnson. “Parents whose kids play hockey talk about it all winter long.” Practice times change each

week, and teams often travel for games, so “it takes a lot more mental space” than other sports, she notes.

And then there’s all that gear: sticks, helmets with cages, chest protectors with shoulder pads, padded hockey pants, shin guards, and knee and elbow pads. Thrifty parents can scour Play It Again Sports and find hand-me-downs on Front Porch Forum, but they’re probably going to spend at least $50 to $100 per kid, per year, on equipment alone.

Many youth hockey associations o er reduced enrollment costs, especially at the youngest levels, says Carol Weston of the Vermont State Amateur Hockey Association. But the investment of both money and time dissuades some families from getting — and staying — involved.

Even so, thanks to local coaches’ and program directors’ e orts, the number of young girls playing hockey in Vermont is on the rise. During the 2012-2013 season, 342 girls ages 8 and under played youth hockey in Vermont. The next season, 370 played, according to USA Hockey.

“It’s not so much about the competition but the camaraderie,” says Maddalena, whose daughter now plays on the Essex Youth Hockey Association girls

U10 team. “I think the social side of girls hockey is really important, and if you want to promote it, you need to recognize that.”

CSB girls director Bushweller’s 9-year-old daughter, Karina, has played on an all-girls team for three years. “The whole entire season, you hang out with your team,” she says, adding that the experience has enabled her to make friends from other towns. She especially likes the team-building parties, which happen several times each season.

Miller-Johnson has used a number of e ective methods to recruit some of Essex Youth Hockey Association’s 90 female players. Every February, the league o ers a Girls Try Hockey for Free event. Her teams participate in the Essex Memorial Day Parade, where they proudly brandish a “Girls Play Hockey” banner, increasing their visibility in the community.

And then there’s Taste of Hockey, a three-day program at the Essex Skating Facility that introduces elementary-age girls to the sport each June.

“It’s like this magic recipe for success,” says

SUGAR AND ICE, P. 20 »

CSB U8 coach Laurie Brown instructs her players during practice

The Next step: High school

In 2000, there were only four varsity girls hockey programs in the state. During the 2000-2001 season, Gov. Howard Dean — a hockey dad — offered a $10,000 grant to any high school that established a girls team, which increased the total to 14.

between 2009 and 2011, girls’ high school hockey in Vermont hit its peak, with 22 teams. but since then, high schools have struggled to fill their rosters. In some cases, they’ve had to join forces.

burlington High School hasn’t had enough players for a girls varsity team for the past several years, says the school’s athletic director jeanne Hulsen. this year, bHS entered into a two-year agreement with colchester High School to form a co-op team that will be known as bHcH.

two years ago, South burlington High School and mount mansfield union High School had a similar arrangement. and last year, SbHS merged with champlain Valley union High School to form a hybrid team.

according to ey Ha’s julie miller-johnson, some

girls have been pulled away from their local hockey leagues by the Vermont Stars, a select youth hockey program for girls ages 9 to 18 that competes during the regular hockey season throughout the northeast. many Stars players go on to play for rice memorial High School’s Girls prep Hockey team.

Walter o’brien founded the Stars 11 years ago to increase the rigor of girls hockey in the state. “Local teams don’t necessarily meet the needs of the really committed athlete,” o’brien says. all of the Stars coaches are former ncaa women’s hockey players.

Still, some local hockey supporters feel that the exclusive Stars are doing a disservice to girls’ hockey. “We don’t have enough girls in the state of Vermont to support two levels of hockey,” miller-johnson says. the solution, she suggests, is something like the Shamrocks, a select girls’ hockey team founded in 2008 by SbHS principal, pat burke. because the team plays in the off-season, it allows girls to compete at a higher level while also playing on their local high school teams.

Miller-Johnson. At the start of the program, “they have no idea what they’re doing, but by the third day they think they’re, like, hockey stars.”

Playing With the Big Girls

Another way to encourage young girls to stick with hockey? Introduce them to older female players.

Laurie Brown, head coach of the CSB U8 girls team, invited the women’s ice hockey team from her alma mater, Middlebury College, to assist with instruction at a recent practice. The younger girls scattered to different parts of the rink to work in small groups with the collegiate athletes.

“How do you score goals?”

Middlebury junior Katie Mandigo asked her group. “You take a shot!” She went on to demonstrate proper shooting form. “You always want the puck to be here, on the heel of the stick,” she said. She slammed the puck against the side of the rink, and the younger girls followed suit.

Mandigo, who grew up in Cornwall, played youth hockey — primarily with boys — until she joined a girls high school team in ninth grade. She credits her work ethic, confidence and sense of accountability to her time on the ice.

It’s important for young players to have role models, says Maddalena. His high school team attends some of the Essex Youth Hockey Association’s girls practices and games, and he’s even invited the younger girls into the high school locker room to sit in on team discussions.

Sometimes girls find mentors closer to home.

Eight-year-old Leighton Guyette, who’s on the CSB U8 team, decided to try hockey because “my sister played and said it was fun,” she says. What does she like about the sport? “You get to make a lot of goals!”

Game On

CSB coach Brown says she’s optimistic about the future of girls hockey, but

For girls, if you don’t get them hooked, they’re not going to play.

John Maddalena, essex high school girls’ hockey coach

csB U8 players fight for the puck during practice.

notes that it’s important to focus on providing a good experience for her players right now.

“What I really want for our girls is for them to have opportunities that are parallel and equivalent to what boys have,” she says, “to be out there in the moment and have a great experience and push themselves in the vein of having fun.”

The fun is evident during the U8 girls game against Lyndonville. Skaters rotating into the game propel themselves eagerly from the sidelines onto the ice, like penguins gliding into the water. Anticipating the action, the girls squeal with delight.

Meanwhile, Coach Brown pats benched players on the back as they slurp water from their sports bottles.

When the two 25-minute games are over, the girls line up on the ice and shake hands with the opposing team. They emerge from the rink, hot pink mouth guards dangling from their helmets, smiles on their sweaty faces. K

say What? A Hockey

Glossary

minimiTe: First-time hockey players, ages 7 and under miTe/U8: 6- to 8-year-olds

sqUirT/U10: 9- and 10-year-olds

Pee Wee/U12: 11- and 12-year-olds

BAnTAm/U14: 13- and 14-year-olds

cHecKinG: a defensive technique in which a player drives his body into an opponent to gain control of the puck. checking isn’t allowed in girls hockey; boys are allowed to check starting at the bantam level.

cross-ice HocKey: boys and girls play this smaller variation of the game at the mite level. Games are three-on-three, and played on half or one-third of the rink, which gives younger, less experienced players more playing time.

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pump

Breastfeeding moms go to great lengths to go with the flow at work

BY MEGAN JAMES

fter my daughter, Joni, was born last April, I took three months of maternity leave from my job as managing editor of Kids VT . On one of my first days back to work, I ran into a coworker while getting my morning coffee. A fellow new mom, she took one look at the black Medela breast pump bag slung over my shoulder and flashed a knowing smile — and an eye roll. She knew what was in that bag.

I replied with an exasperated sigh, and, just like that, became part of the sisterhood.

Not a member of the club?

Let me explain: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that new mothers breastfeed their babies until age

1. Breast milk is incredible stu . I knew it boosted the baby’s immune system and promoted brain, vision and digestive tract development. But I was surprised to learn it may also reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, as well as protect from later-in-life diseases such as diabetes, some cancers and asthma. Like magic, breast milk meets a growing baby’s needs over time.

Producing it, though, depends entirely on demand — and for most American moms who work outside the home, maternity leave only lasts a few months. If we want to keep feeding our kids this liquid gold, we have to “express” it several times a workday while we’re away from our babies. Enter the breast pump.

My pumping-at-work days will account for only a brief period in my life as a mother. But right now, the commitment feels intense. I reported and wrote much of this story while hooked up to my pump, and, on at least one occasion, my interview subject was also pumping.

I use an electric breast pump three times a day for 20 minutes. Other brands exist, but everyone I know uses Medela, a Swiss company that debuted its first nonhospital breast pump in the U.S. in 1991. Before that, “electric breast pumps, sophisticated pieces of medical equipment, were generally available only in hospitals,” where they were used to “express milk from women with inverted nipples, and from mothers of infants too weak and tiny to suck,” according to a 2009 New Yorker article on the history of the pump.

This little machine, which I carry around in a black tote designed to look like a stylish handbag, gives me the freedom to pursue my career without sacrificing the health benefits of breast

It’s also a maddeningly complicated contraption. And using it feels truly

Pumping requires taking o my shirt, a xing two phonograph-shaped flanges to my boobs, either through holes cut into a sports bra or by holding them in place.

Next, I attach a bottle to the base of each flange and snap tubing into place. For the next 20 minutes or so, the machine wheezes rhythmically as it sucks my nipples into plastic tubes, contorting them into horrifying, finger-like shapes. If I’m stressed — anxiously watching the bottles, hoping I can fill them as quickly as Joni guzzles them at daycare — the milk just stops flowing.

After each session, I have to disassemble the pump and thoroughly wash each of its 16 parts.

The pump gets the job done, but it’s not as e cient as my baby, who uses her tongue to push on milk glands behind the areola while she sucks. She can empty the breast twice as quickly as the pump can.

It’s a maddeningly complicated contraption. And using it feels truly bizarre.

MATT MIGNANELLI

HANDS-FREE BRA

(Remember: Your nipples are poking out. Put your shirt back on before you answer that door.)

TUBING

(Uh, are you supposed to wash this, too?)

Building a be er pump

RUBBER DIAPHRAGM (the floppy bit)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology recently held a hackathon called “Make the Breast Pump Not Suck,” which drew 150 scientists, engineers, doctors, designers and lactation consultants interested in building a better pump. They shared ideas for improvements such as “The Helping Hand” bra, which helps relieve plugged milk ducts, and an adapter that makes it safe for women to share their pumps.

I asked fellow pumpers what kinds of improvements they’d like to see.

“The amount of parts is ridiculous,” says Ashley Laux. “All the tubing is ridiculous. The noise it makes is too loud. Maybe if the tubing were flatter against your chest, you could wear it under clothes?”

“My idea — which is second to wishing that time travel existed — is that instead of the act of pumping, you could put a syringe in there and just suck the milk out,” says Suzanne Marchelewicz.

“Something that’s aesthetically pleasing,” says Brandi Thomas.

MOTOR

(Everyone’s pump makes a unique sound. Mine whines: “Why? Why? Why?”)

CONNECTOR CASE

(You won’t get any suction unless this is fully snapped on. Trickier than it sounds.)

BOTTLE CAP

(Left this at home? There must be some office Tupperware you can use, right?)

BOTTLE

(Screw this onto the connector before you start pumping — or you’ll end up with milk-drenched pants.)

COOLER FOR ICE PACK

(Make sure that pack is fully frozen when you go through airport security.)

FLANGE (nipple squeezer)

CONNECTOR (Washing this by hand? Good luck.)

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pump

Federal law requires employers with more than 50 employees to provide nursing mothers with “a place, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from coworkers and the public, which may be used by an employee to express breast milk.”

I consider myself lucky here at Kids VT/Seven Days headquarters. Our “lactation lounge” is a soundproof, windowless former radio broadcast studio that’s now outfitted with a comfy sofa, a tray table for my laptop and a lock that decreases the odds that one of my coworkers will walk in on me, boobs a-pumpin’.

However, for women employed at smaller companies, or who work on

CONTINUED FROM P. 22

the go, finding a place to pump can be di cult.

Photographer Stina Booth faced this dilemma during the summer wedding crush after each of her two kids were born. Shooting a wedding is a demanding, eight-hour job. How could she sneak away to pump?

Breastfeeding mothers know this scramble all too well. It doesn’t matter where you are. If you’ve been away from your baby for more than a few hours, your boobs begin to swell painfully with milk. You begin to scan your surroundings for someplace private to pump. Go too long and you pay the price in engorged — even leaking — boobs and a drop in milk supply.

Oh, the places you’ pump!

Several hours into a black-tie wedding at the Bowery Hotel in New York City, I went on the hunt for a place to pump. I have yet to splurge on the Medela pump battery pack, so I needed an electrical outlet. None of the bathrooms had them, and I wasn’t about to pump behind the bar. So I begged the ladies working the coat check to let me pump in their closet, which they did.

Here’s what other moms had to say about their strangest pumping experiences:

“One time I had a friend visiting, and she and I pumped together at my house,” recalls Suzanne Marchelewicz. “We were just hanging out in my bathroom, sitting on the edge of the tub while the babies were sleeping.”

“I was pumping in my office and I forgot to close the windows,” says Ashley Laux. “I looked out and there were some

construction workers mulching something, and one of them was looking up at me pump-

Seven Days staff writer Kathryn Flagg’s list of unusual pumping locations includes “several supply closets (in the dark days before the Seven Days lactation lounge); the main bathroom in the Statehouse (while talking to a state rep through the stall door); [and] my car, parked in front of a state correctional facility.”

“I was at the Philly Zoo for work, and I had to pump,” recalls Brandi Thomas. “I had to put my milk in the zoo fridge, which was filled with weird stuff like medication for animals.”

“A wedding schedule is a little insane to begin with,” says Booth, who pumped for her kids, now ages 3 and 18 months, primarily at weddings. “How do I cram some personal time into an already crazy day?”

Her solution: Pump in the car. “I’d sort of rig myself all up and then put

a blanket over my chest,” she admits. If she had an assistant with her, he’d drive while she pumped in the backseat.

around to see if anyone

to bother her when they hear that sound, but students who visit her aren’t often clued in.

“Sometimes I’ll get a very persistent student, knocking and knocking because they know I’m in there,” she says. “I unhook myself and come out all wild-eyed, like, ‘What?!’ And they’re like, What was she doing in there?”

Suzanne Marchelewicz, FlynnArts coordinator for the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, is currently pumping at work for her 9-month-old. Two years ago, after giving birth to her first child, she had high hopes of pumping in the car during her commute to and from her Huntington home. “But it was such a pain,” she says. “I mean, everyone knows pumping sucks. But the whole strapping on the hands-free bra, and the

possibility of exposing myself in the parking lot…”

Marchelewicz also has her own o ce, so she can shut the door and get busy I but

people are really worried about privacy, but I kind of threw that out the window pretty quickly.”

Even pumping in a private office can be awkward.

Ashley Laux, associate director of community engagement at Middlebury College, works in a converted old farmhouse where she pumps daily for her 5-month-old. The walls are thin and there’s a gap in her office door when it’s closed. Laux puts on a white-noise machine to muffle the pump’s

5-month-old. purr.

The eight other people in Laux’s building know not

pumping. “I feel like I have a great situation, but I know that other people don’t,” she says, mentioning a friend who works in a local dental o ce and used to pump in a supply closet that didn’t lock. “She had to pump with her back against the door,” says Marchelewicz.

“Pumping is stressful enough as it is, so it’s nice to have a place to do it that’s relaxing and cozy,” says Lisa Sholk, an associate brand manager for Ben & Jerry’s who pumped at work — in a swanky lactation lounge — for both her children, now 4 and 2.

Sholk used a hands-free bra so she could keep working, responding to emails or making phone calls. “But pumping certainly a ected my ability to take lunch or do anything else other than work,” says Sholk. “I would feel guilty going out for a walk or getting exercise because I had already spent so much of my day pumping.”

Lactation consultant Sally MacFadyen, who has been meeting

Some people are really worried about privacy, but I kind of threw that out the window pretty quickly.

STINA BOOTH

with breastfeeding mothers in Vermont for 17 years, helps prepare them for pumping at work. She says some women assure her they will have a designated place to pump in the office. But, she says, “by and large, that’s not the case.”

Support for Vermont’s breastfeeding mothers has grown since MacFadyen began her career, she says. But there’s still room for improvement. She’s spoken to teachers who have to pump in the school nurse’s o ce.

“If I were in charge of the world,” she says, she’d like to see breastfeeding-support groups such as La Leche League hold regular meetings at Vermont workplaces. “Why not go into NRG or Ben & Jerry’s once a week and maybe have 45 minutes of talking about what’s working and what’s not working?”

No one really likes pumping, especially at work. But Brandi Thomas, who works and pumps at Seventh Generation, says there’s one thing she loves about it: “The camaraderie of the moms. You’re really in it together.”

Behind Closed D rs

At the Ben & Jerry’s corporate office in South Burlington, nursing mamas have access to “The Milky Way,” a lounge tricked out with gliders and a changing table (for baby visits), a fridge (for storing milk and pump parts), a table full of magazines, and a bulletin board covered in photos of employees’ babies (for triggering the all-powerful let-down reflex that starts milk flowing).

Seventh Generation’s lactation lounge is called “The Health Room.”

“I think maybe a guy named it [that], because he didn’t know what else to say,” says Brandi Thomas, who handles public relations for the company and uses the room regularly to pump for her 8-month-old. It’s equipped with a minifridge, a sink, a comfy chair, a table and a baby-photo bulletin board. Thomas and three other pumping moms book sessions in the room using Microsoft Outlook.

DRS.

DRS.

ORTHODONTICS

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

Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have 2-3 years of education beyond dental school.

DRS PETERSON, RYAN & EATON

www.champlainortho.net

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

ORTHODONTICS

Braces for Children & Adults

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

Braces

ST. ALBANS OFFICE 80 Mapleville Depot 527-7100

So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile — that feels great, too.

WILLISTON OFFICE 277 Blair Park Rd 878-5323

S

DEC/JAN CALENDAR

by:

Dickensian Delight

Saturday, December 6

WINTER’S EVE CELEBRATION

History buffs experience 18th-century Vermont life with live music, dancing, period demonstrations and lantern-lit tours of the property. All ages. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Burlington, 4-7 p.m. $4-8; free for children under 6. Info, 865-4556.

Friday, December 12-Sunday, December 14

WASSAIL WEEKEND ON THE FARM

History lovers celebrate the holidays like it’s 1890 with traditional music, sleigh rides, crafts and more. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Sunday, January 4

‘THE SECRET GARDEN’

The Opera Theatre of Weston premiers its musical adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic tale of an orphan who unlocks a hidden world. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 2 & 6 p.m. $15-30. Info, 775-0903.

Saturday, January 17

SOCK MONKEY CLASS

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’: Friday, December 12, at 7 p.m. at the Flynn Center for Performing Arts in Burlington. All ages. $15-42. Info, 863-5966. flynncenter.org

Enter the world of 19th-century London, where crotchety Ebenezer Scrooge has an opportunity to go back in time to change his life and find his heart. Nebraska Theatre Caravan stages a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ with sumptuous costumes, a live orchestra and a 24-member cast. Special ghostly effects and moving renditions of holiday songs guarantee every member of the family is entertained.

Creative types of all ages make a silly stuffed sock creation for a community art show. ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $20 per family. Info, oneartscollective@gmail.com.

Thursday, January 22

CLOTH DIAPERING MADE EASY

Mamas learn the ins and outs, ups and downs, and wets and drys of this money-saving, environmentally sound diapering method. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, noon-2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 595-7953.

SPOTLIGHTS & LISTINGS BY ALISON NOVAK

Highlights

2 TUESDAY

Arts & crafts

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

Baby & maternity

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

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

Education

The Power of Play!: This community workshop, led by a professor of education, explores the importance of play in early childhood development. Childcare available. Vergennes Union High School, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 877-6702.

Games

chess club: Checkmate! Kids with basic knowledge of rules and moves scheme winning strategies. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4:15 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Health & Fitness

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

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

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

Library & Books

Fairfax Game Night: Moms, dads and kids bring their own boards — or borrow from the library's collection — for some tabletop fun. Ages 5 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Gaming For Teens & Adults: Players of all skill levels engage in Magic: The Gathering and other amusements. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult or have parental permission to attend. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5-7:45 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Read to a dog: Pet-loving kiddos share books with registered therapy pooches. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

music

children's sing-Along With Lesley Grant: Parents sip coffee while wee ones break into song with a local musician and educator. Preschool-age kids and younger. The Bees Knees, Morrisville, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 888-7889. music With mr. chris: Singer and storyteller Chris Dorman leads kids in music and dance. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

Nature & science

story Explorers: When it starts to snow: Curious kiddos listen to an enchanting story about the fluffy white stuff, then explore what woodland and farm animals do in winter. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

3 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

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

Baby & maternity

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

Food

candy-cane-making demo: Families make holiday memories as they watch confectioners 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 per person to make your own candy cane. Info, 253-9591.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2. shelburne open Gym: See December 2, noon. Williston open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

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

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

Cla es

Dorothy Canfield Fisher Book

Discussion: Avid readers ages 8-11 engage in spirited conversations about award-winning titles. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Music

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

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

Preschool Music With Derek: Kids tap their toes in time to a fun, tune-filled gathering. Ages 3-5. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: Small scallywags "ooh" and "aargh!" during swashbuckling songs, movements and guessing games. Ages 7 and under, accompanied by an adult. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

4 THURSDAY

Arts & Crafts

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

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

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

Infant Massage: New parents learn the techniques and benefits of this ancient tradition in a slow-paced, discussion-filled class. Tea provided. Babies ages 4 weeks to crawling with one or both parents or a caregiver. Yoga Roots, Shelburne, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $15. Info, 985-0090.

Community

A Tree-mendous Event: Community members enjoy a presentation by Burlington's arborist —plus pizza and refreshments — while arboreal award winners claim their prizes. Burlington Parks & Recreation, 6 p.m. Free; RSVP to Gail Asbury at 660-2673 or gsasbu@gmail.com. Info, 660-2673.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2. Itty Bitty Public Skating: Tiny feet learn the art of sliding on ice through fun and games. Ages 5 and under. Leddy Park, Burlington, 1011:30 a.m. $8 per family; $1 skate rentals. Info, 865-7558.

EvoKids at Evolution Yoga:  Join us this winter for baby and kids yoga!  Whether you are looking for a way to bond with your baby, tap into your toddler’s imagination, or give your child tools to focus and find confidence, our children’s yoga series for birth through teen o er a consistent way to bring yoga into your family’s life.  Mondays: 9:45-10:30 am, Tots on the Move (ages 1.5-2.5); 10:45-11:30 am, Yoga Story Adventures (ages 4-5); 4:30-5:30 pm, Teen Yoga.  Wednesdays:  9:45-10:30 am, Infant Yoga and Massage (6 wks.-6 mo.); 4:30-5:30 pm, After School Special (ages 5+).  Fridays: 9:45-10:30 am, Tots on the Move (ages 1.5-2.5); 10:45-11:30 am, Kids Creative Yoga (ages 2.5-5).   Saturdays: 9:15-10 am, New Explorers Yoga (walkers-18 mo); 10:15-11 am, Tots on the Move (ages 1.5-2.5).   Sundays, 2:30-3:30 pm, YoGirls (ages 7-11).  Sessions begin January 11th. $78 for 6 weeks or $130 for 10 weeks.  Location:  Evolution Yoga, 20 Kilburn St., Burlington. Info: 864-9642, evolutionvt.com.

Postnatal Yoga at Evolution Yoga: Join other mothers in Evolution Yoga’s postnatal yoga classes, and bring your body back to balance and strength.  For mothers 6 weeks postpartum and on. Babies not yet crawling are welcome to come with mama!

Postnatal Yoga: Sundays 12:15 pm, Tuesdays, 10:40 pm. Postnatal Core: Fridays, noon. Drop-ins welcome. $15 per class or $130 for a 10-class pass.  Location:  Evolution Yoga, 20 Kilburn St., Burlington.  Info: 864-9642, evolutionvt.com.

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

YMCA Aquatics: Make a splash in the new year! The Greater Burlington YMCA is the premier destination for swim lessons. We encourage you and your family to get involved in the water starting at 6 months through adulthood.  Lessons occur Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Cost: $106 for members/$170 for nonmembers for 30-minute lessons; $114 for members/$178 for nonmembers for 45-minute lessons. View full schedule at gbymca.org. Winter season begins January 5. Contact Jess Lukas at 652-8143 or jlukas@gbymca.org to register.

4 THURSDAY, P.30

Dec calenDar

shelburne open Gym: See December 2.

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

Library & Books

card making: Crafter Karen McNall provides inspiration and materials for older kids and adults to make their own paper greetings. Fairfax Community Library, 3-5 p.m. $1.50-2 per card made. Info, 849-2420.

Hinesburg Lego club: Interlocking blocks, board games, snacks and books entertain kids ages 6 and up. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Lego Thursdays: The library supplies the building materials, and kids bring their imagination and creativity. All ages. Haston Library, Franklin, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, 285-6505. Library Teen Advisory Group: Adolescents gather to plan library programs and munch on pizza. Grades 7-12. New members welcome! Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Literacy celebration: Families enjoy stories, crafts, singing and shopping. A percentage of sales goes to Rick Marcotte Central School in South Burlington for customers who specify at checkout. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 4-8 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7200.

Read to a dog: Book lovers choose stories to share with a furry friend. Ages 5-10. Fairfax Community Library, 3:15-4:15 p.m. Free; preregister for 15-minute time slot. Info, 849-2420.

music

music for Preschoolers: Lively tunes with Peter Alsen or Derek Burkins strike the right note among the wee crowd. Ages 5 and under with a caregiver. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free; limited to one session per week per family. Info, 878-4918.

Nature & science

snug in the snow: Kiddos experience winter like meadow voles and river otters, nestling under the powder and sliding atop it. Ages 3-5 with adult companion. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult/child pair; $4 per additional child; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

5 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

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

dance

'The musical story of the Nutcracker': The Middlebury Community Players present an adaptation of the classic ballet. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 7 p.m. $6. Info, 382-9222.

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

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont international Festival: Crafts, food, music and dance from around the globe are showcased during this multicultural celebration. All ages. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, 5-8 p.m. $5-7; $20 per family; free for children under 6. Info, 223-3144.

Food

candy-cane-making demo: See December 3.

Games

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

Health & Fitness

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

Williston open Gym: See December 2.

Holidays

deck the Halls: Visitors view the museum's decorated halls and make seasonal creations, from ornaments to gift boxes. Local musicians add joyous sounds to the festivities. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular winter museum admission, $5-8; free for children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

shelburne Tree Lighting & caroling: Kids and adults brave the cold for holiday songs and a tree lighting, followed by cocoa and cookie decoration at the Shelburne Country Store. Shelburne Village Green, 5:45 p.m. Free. Info, 985-9550.

Waldorf Holiday Fair: Grown-ups take their pick of handcrafted gifts from more than 60 artisans while little ones enjoy storytelling, African drumming, magical activities and crafts. Friday is intended for adults and older teens; Saturday is all ages. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, 6:30-9 p.m. Free. Info, 985-2827.

Library & Books

Early Bird math: Young children and their caregivers put two and two together using interactive books, songs and games to explore arithmetic concepts. Ages 3-6. Richmond Free Library, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 434-3036. middle school Planners & Helpers: Students play games and plot cool projects for the library over snacks. Grades 6-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Young Adult Advisory Board: Teens help make the library a destination for their peers. Ages 12-18. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

music

Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: Toe-tapping tunes captivate kiddies. Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 660-9346. music With derek: An immature audience shakes out its sillies with song-filled activities. All ages. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-1810.

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

Nature & Science

Full Moon Snowshoe Hike: Hot chocolate fuels walkers for a sparkling stroll under lunar light. Snowshoes provided. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 7-8:30 p.m. $5-10; preregistration recommended. Info, 229-6206.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 3, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

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

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

Theater

‘The Musical Story of the Nutcracker’: This family-focused version of the classic holiday tale, presented by the Middlebury Community Players, features Tchaikovsky's music, along with original lyrics and choreography. Middlebury Union High School, 7 p.m. $6. Info, 388-7432.

6 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Family Clay: Creative kids and their parents make memories firing and glazing special pieces to be picked up later. All ages. ArtisTree Community Arts Center, South Pomfret, 10 a.m.-noon. $20 per parent-child pair; $5 per additional family member; preregister. Info, 457-3500.

Kids Building Workshop: Handy helpers learn do-it-yourself skills and tool safety as they construct seasonal projects. Ages 5-12. Home Depot, Williston, 9 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister at workshops.homedepot.com. Info, 872-0039.

Kids Craft: Felt Ornament: Drop-in crafters choose from four styles to create a cute, festive tree hanger. Ages 5 and up. Creative Habitat, South Burlington, 1-3 p.m. $5. Info, 862-0646.

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

Community

Winooski Train Show: Mini-locomotives and railroad gear captivate choo-choo enthusiasts at this event benefitting Winooski's Dollars for Scholars program. All ages. Winooski Educational Center, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $1-5; free for children under 6. Info, 862-7634.

Winter's Eve Celebration: History bu s experience 18th-century Vermont life with live music, dancing, period demonstrations and lanternlit tours of the property. All ages. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Burlington, 4-7 p.m. $4-8; free for children under 6. Info, 865-4556.

Dance

'The Musical Story of the Nutcracker': See December 5.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont International Festival: See December 5, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Gingerbread Houses: Little ones fashion gumdrop trees and frosted rooftops. Grades K-4. Kids under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

Kids in the Kitchen: Pierogi!: Kids with a culinary knack make tiny, flu y pockets of cheesy-potato goodness, known and loved in Eastern Europe for generations. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 10-11 a.m. $20 per parent-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Pancake Breakfast & Silent Auction: Flapjacks and maple syrup grace the cafeteria tables at this community event with local goods and services to bid on and live entertainment. Proceeds benefit unique learning opportunities for students. Sustainability Academy at Lawrence Barnes, Burlington, 8:30-11:30 a.m. $4-10; $10-25 per family; free for kids under 3. Info, 864-8480.

Health & Fitness

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, 9 & 10:10 a.m.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Holidays

Breakfast with Santa: Christmas activities including card and ornament making, cookie decorating, storytelling with Mrs. Claus, face painting and holiday manicures accompany a hearty meal. St. John Vianney Church, South Burlington, 8:30-11:30 a.m. $10; children under 2 are free; preregister; proceeds benefit Joseph's House emergency outreach center. Info, 951-4290.

Christmas at the Farm: Fête the season the old-fashioned way, with 19th-century crafts, tours of the 1890 farmhouse and horse-drawn sleigh rides. All ages. Horse-drawn sleigh rides from December 26 to January 1. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Christmas Extravaganza: Fresh-cut evergreens, wreaths and baked goods are available for purchase at this PTO-sponsored holiday event. Christ the King School, Burlington, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 862-6696.

Deck the Halls: See December 5, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Old-Fashioned Visits With Santa: After Santa's arrival by firetruck, little ones share milk, cookies and their wish lists, while a juggler adds to the fun. Middlebury Community House, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 377-3557.

Richmond Holiday Market: Let the merrymaking commence! Vendors sell seasonal gifts, Santa pops by, and attendees enjoy wagon rides, live music and food. Takes place at the library, Congregational Church and Town Hall. Richmond Free Library, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3979.

Santa's Arrival: Well-wishers line the streets as Saint Nicholas arrives in town via fire truck. All ages. Downtown Middlebury, 9:45-10 a.m. Free. Info, 377-3557.

Shelburne Holiday Craft Fair: Students sell food and handmade wares, including jewelry and holiday decorations, to benefit classrooms. All ages. Shelburne Community School, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 985-3331.

6 SATURDAY (CONTINUED)

Vergennes Holiday Stroll: Cookie decorating, decoration making, a craft fair, a visit with Santa and musical performances are highlights of this festive community celebration in the Little City. See full schedule at addisoncounty.com/holidaystroll. Downtown Vergennes, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Various prices; most events are free. Info, 388-7951, ext. 1.

Waldorf Holiday Fair: See December 5, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Winter Holidays Party: Gingerbread making and holiday crafts keep kids busy while adults help decorate the library for the giving season. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Wreath Making: Kids and adults fashion a basic ring of greenery, with fancy embellishments available for purchase. Ages 10 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 10 a.m.-noon. $12-20; preregister. Info, 849-2420.

Library & Books

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

Music

Vermont Fiddle Orchestra Winter Concert: This annual presentation includes youth performers, a silent auction and refreshments. On the green in front of College Hall Chapel. Vermont College of Fine Arts, Montpelier, 7 p.m. $12-15; free for children 12 and under. Info, 229-4191.

Nature & Science

Exploring Magnets: Budding scientists experiment with invisible pull. All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

Lab Coat Investigations: Young scientists explore a range of topics, from extracting DNA to making batteries. Ages 9 and up. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for members and children under 2. Info, 649-2200.

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

Story Explorers: When it Starts to Snow: See December 2.

Theater

The Musical Story of the Nutcracker: See December 5.

7 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Postnatal Yoga: Moms bring their pre-crawling kids to an all-levels flowing yoga class focused on bringing the body back to strength and alignment in a fun, nurturing environment. Evolution Yoga, Burlington, 12:15-1:30 p.m. $14. Info, 864-9642.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2. 10:05-11:30 a.m.

Dance

'The Musical Story of the Nutcracker': See December 5, 2 p.m.

Education

High School Open House: Prospective families join administrators, teachers and coaches to learn more about this Catholic high school, then take a self-guided tour of the renovated campus. Rice Memorial High School, South Burlington, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 862-6521.

Fairs & Festivals

Vermont International Festival: See December 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 3.

Health & Fitness

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

Ice Skating for Dads & Kids: Male role models and family members bring the kids in their lives to the rink for some fun-filled gliding and refreshments. Central Vermont Memorial Civic

Center, Montpelier, 4-5:15 p.m. Free. Info, 595-7953.

Montpelier Kids Yoga: Young yogis cap o their weekend with themed classes that open with a short meditation and encourage creativity and collaboration.

Ages 3-7. Grateful Yoga, Montpelier, 4:15-5:15 p.m. $12. Info, 224-6183.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6.

Christmas Extravaganza: See December 6.

Christmas-Tree Lighting & Caroling: 'Tis the season for decorative evergreens! The Colchester Community Chorus provide a festive soundtrack for crafts, hot cocoa and cookies. All ages. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Deck the Halls: See December 5.

Holiday Concert & Sing Along: The Milton Community Band presents a performance of seasonal music, with lots of familiar tunes. Milton High School, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4922.

Nature & Science

My Sky: See December 6.

Theater

Curious George: The Golden Meatball: The unquenchably inquisitive monkey of Margret and H.A. Rey's beloved book series comes to the stage in a fun-filled, globe-trotting and delicious adventure. Ages 5 and up. The Moore Theater. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, 3 p.m. $13-23. Info, 603-646-2422.

The Musical Story of the Nutcracker: See December 5, 2 p.m.

8 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Crafternoon: Art-minded kids get the weekend o to a creative start. Grades 4 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Toddler Time Art Class: See December 3.

Ca ing Young Writers!

Baby & Maternity

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

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

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

Montpelier After-School Yoga: This community-cultivating class for kids ages 8-12 explores themes including animals, plants, outer space and superheroes. Grateful Yoga, Montpelier, 4:15-5:15 p.m. $12. Info, 224-6183. Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, 10 a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m.

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

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Music

Kids Music with Raphael: Local favorite Raphael Groton plays tunes to make the little ones dance and giggle. All ages. The Skinny Pancake, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. $3 per family. Info, 540-0188.

Music for Preschoolers: See December 4. 11 a.m.

9 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Creative Tuesdays: See December 2.

Baby & Maternity

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

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Food

Gingerbread Houses: See December 6, 3:30 p.m.

Playgroups

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TUESDAY

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

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

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

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures

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

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

Games

Chess Club: See December 2.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See December 2. Read to a Dog: See December 2.

Music

Children's Sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See December 2.

Music With Mr. Chris: See December 2.

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

WEDNESDAY

Barre Open Gym: See Monday.

Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Royalton Playgroup: United Church on the Green, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 6852264, ext. 24.

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

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

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

THURSDAY

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

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

Burlington Playgroup: See Monday.

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures Playgroup: See Tuesday. 9:30-11 a.m.

Essex Junction Building Bright Futures

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

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

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

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

Randolph Playgroup: White River Craft Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 6852264, ext. 24.

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

FRIDAY

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

Colchester Playgroup: See Wednesday. Essex Center Motor-Based Playgroup: Memorial Hall, Dec. 19, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SATURDAY

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

Franklin Tumble Time & Playgroup: Franklin Central School, Dec. 6, 9-11:15 a.m. Free. Meets December 7 and January 11. Info, 370-0838.

SUNDAY

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

Nature & science

story Explorers: You are a Lion!: Through simple yoga moves, kids explore what it's like to use their bodies to mimic animals. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

10 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Toddler Time Art class: See December 3.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See December 3.

Education

History for Homeschoolers: Homeschooled kids learn about topics related to Vermont history, from the Abenaki to skiing. Ages 6-12. Vermont History Museum, Montpelier, 1-3 p.m. $4-5; free for parents and nonparticipating children; preregister. Info, 828-1314.

Food

candy-cane-making demo: See December 3.

Kids in the Kitchen: Gingerbread Houses: Budding architects craft fanciful dwellings decorated with gum drops, candy canes and chocolate kisses. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $20 per parent-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

A Jolly Ol’ Month

soak up some holiday magic during A VERY mERRY middLEBuRY, a town-wide celebration that runs through December. on the first saturday of the month, horse-drawn carriages offer rides while kids wait for a chance to meet old saint nick. the next saturday, seasonal characters — including a snowman, reindeer, santa, and anna and elsa from Frozen — join families for a pancake breakfast. find at least six tiny reindeer hidden in downtown shop windows and enter to win “middlebury money” for local shopping or one of the framed reindeer, created by children’s book author ashley Wolff.

A VERY mERRY middLEBuRY: Monday, December 1, through Wednesday, December 31, at various locations in downtown Middlebury. All ages. Info, verymerrymiddlebury@gmail.com. experiencemiddlebury.com

Games

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

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2. shelburne open Gym: See December 2, noon. Williston open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Lego club: Mini-makers participate in surprise challenges with colorful interlocking blocks. Ages 6 and up. Fairfax Community Library, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Pajama story Time: Flannel-clad kiddos bring their favorite stuffed animals for tales, crafts and a bedtime snack. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 876-7555.

music

moving & Grooving With christine: See December 3.

Preschool music With derek: See December 3. Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See December 3.

song circle: community sing-Along: Songbirds raise their voices while Rich and Laura Atkinson accompany on a variety of

instruments. All ages. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 6:45 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

11 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

Needle Felting class: Budding fiber artists make a sweet ornament with the help of a cookie cutter. Ages 6 and up. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Fairfax Community Library, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: See December 4.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2, 5:45-7:15 p.m.

infant massage: See December 4.

community

stuttering support Group: School-age children with stutters and their families are invited to join these community-building gatherings. Meets at Pomeroy Hall. University of Vermont, Burlington, 4:14-5:15 p.m. Free. Info, 656-0250.

Education

History for Homeschoolers: See December 10.

Games

st. Albans Legos: Block lovers keep busy with

the library's giant collection. All ages. St. Albans Free Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2. itty Bitty Public skating: See December 4. shelburne open Gym: See December 2. Yoga with danielle: See December 4.

Library & Books

Hinesburg Lego club: See December 4. Lego Thursdays: See December 4.

music

music for Preschoolers: See December 4.

12 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Family Wheel drop-in: See December 5.

community

Wassail Weekend on the Farm: History lovers celebrate the holidays like it's 1890 with traditional music, sleigh rides, crafts and more. All ages. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission, $4-14; free for children under 3. Info, 457-2355.

Woodstock Wassail Weekend: Townwide festivities include visits with Santa, an equestrian parade, theater and musical performances, a

home tour and a craft fair. All ages. Various locations, Woodstock. Prices vary by event. Info, 457-3555.

Education

Homeschool Project Day: Outof-classroom learners share their current projects with an audience of parents and siblings. Grades K through 12. Milton Public Library, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

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

Food Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 3.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Holidays

Essex Village Tree Lighting & Train Hop: Everything is illuminated during this festive celebration with model train displays, the Roaming Railroad and a bonfire. Essex Junction (Downtown), 6-9 p.m. Free,. Info, 878-6944.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math: See December 5. Train Hop: Families view model choo choos at the library. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music

Kids Music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See December 5.

Music With Derek: See December 5. Music With Robert: See December 5.

Nature & Science

Robins Nest Nature Playgroup: See December 5.

Theater

'A Christmas Carol': Nebraska Theatre Caravan stages a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge with colorful costumes, a live orchestra and showstopping special e ects. (See calendar spotlight on page 27.) Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 7 p.m. $15-$42. Info, 863-5966.

13 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Darkroom Class: Fledgling photogs develop unique images using light and objects. Ages 8-12. BCA Center, Burlington, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 865-7166.

Family Day: Seasonal art activities, including gingerbread-house building, make for a creative afternoon for families. Helen Day Art Center, Stowe, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 253-8358.

Winter Gifts: Using recycled and natural materials as inspiration, fans of handmade crafts make beautiful "green" objects and prepare yummy treats. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 9:3011:30 a.m. & 12:30-2:30 p.m. $20-23 per parent/ child pair; $15-17 per each additional child; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Community

Wassail Weekend on the Farm: See December 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Woodstock Wassail Weekend: See December 12.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 3, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2. 9 & 10:10 a.m.

Yoga Tots: Young yogis stretch it out in exercises meant to build self-esteem and positive attitudes toward physical activity. Ages 1-8. Highgate Town O ce Building, 9 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6. Gingerbread House Decorating: Sweettoothed kids make and take a sturdy confection. Highgate Public Library, Highgate Center, 10 & 11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 868-3970.

Holiday Character Breakfast: Revelers join Anna and Elsa, a gingerbread man, candy cane and reindeer for pancakes, coloring, balloons and a photo booth with props. All ages. Middlebury Inn, 8:30 & 10 a.m. $5-8. Info, 377-3557.

Holiday Market & Tree Cutting: Seasonal shoppers browse locavore candles, soap, produce, sweets and pizza while partaking in complimentary food-focused demos. Green Mountain Girls Farm, Northfield, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free entry. Info, 276-0787.

Old-Fashioned Visits With Santa: Deserving kids read their holiday wish lists to jolly Saint Nick in a real toy workshop. Maple Landmark Woodcraft, Middlebury, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 377-3557.

Library & Books

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

Nature & Science

Bird-Monitoring Walk: Beginning birders embrace ornithology on an identification walk. Appropriate for older children. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 8-10 a.m. Donations appreciated. Info, 434-3068.

Illuminate the Lake: This 19-day celebration of winter, animals and lights features live animal visits on three consecutive Saturdays, including arctic fox, Siberian huskies and reindeer. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

My Sky: See December 6.

Theater

'An Irish Christmas in America': Sprightly singers and dancers transport family audiences to the Emerald Isle. Recommended for ages 7 and up. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7 p.m. $20-38. Info, 760-4634.

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

Services offered:

■ Infertility evaluations

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■ Preimplantation genetic testing in new, state of the art onsite laboratory

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■ Full range of gynecologic ultrasound services (802) 655-8888 / www.nrmvt.com

k4t-NortheasternMed1114.indd

Green Mountain Nutcracker

The holiday dance classic with an original made-in-Vermont twist!

DEC CALENDAR

Kids VT Spectacular Spectacular: Vermont's rising stars ages 5-13 wow the crowd with two-minute acts showcasing their talents. Performances by Urban Dance Complex, Regal Gymnastics, McFadden Irish Dance Company and Very Merry Theatre provide additional entertainment. Higher Ground, South Burlington, noon. $7-10; free for children under 7. Info, 985-5482.

14 SUNDAY

Arts & Crafts

Gingerbread House & Ornament Making: Hot cocoa and holiday music set the stage as families decorate graham cracker structures and create dangly baubles to hang from the tree. ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. $25 per family; preregister. Info, oneartscollective@gmail.com.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.,10:05-11:30 a.m.

Community

Wassail Weekend on the Farm: See December 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Woodstock Wassail Weekend: See December 12.

Education

Hebrew School Open House: Before the synagogue's Chanukah party, visitors check out classes for kids ages 3-12. Ohavi Zedek Synagogue, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 864-0218.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 3.

Health & Fitness

Essex Sunday Open Gym: See December 7. Montpelier Kids Yoga: See December 7.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6. Holiday Market & Tree Cutting: See December 13, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Holiday Pageant: Very Merry Theatre youth performers put on a seasonal show. 333 Stage Performing Arts Studio, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 355-1461.

Nature & Science

Gardening for Kids: Green-thumbed kiddos learn simple and fun techniques to grow fresh salad greens all winter. Ages 3 and up with an adult. City Market, Burlington, 12-1 p.m. $5-10; adults free with a paid child; preregister. Info, 861-9757.

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

My Sky: See December 6.

15 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Toddler Time Art Class: See December 3.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

Games

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

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

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 4. Little Yogis: See December 8.

Montpelier After-School Yoga: See December 8.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, 10 a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m.

Tots Yoga: See December 8.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Holidays

Holiday Doodles: Young artists grab a pencil and explore di erent ways to draw and create elf-like characters. South Burlington Community Library, 4-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Library & Books

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

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

'Star Wars' Club: Costumed young fans channel the Force as they chat about their favorite characters. Popcorns and drinks provided. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4:305:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music

Kids Music with Raphael: See December 8. Music for Preschoolers: See December 4, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

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

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

16 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Creative Tuesdays: See December 2. Preschool Story Hour: Fishing for Art: Wee ones and their caregivers listen to the book Matisse's Fish, then tour the museum's sculpture court and make a fish print. Ages 3-5. Plattsburgh State Art Museum, N.Y.,10-11:30 a.m. Free; preregistration appreciated. Info, 518-564-2498.

Baby & Maternity

Breastfeeding Café: Moms nurse their babies, chat and pose questions to a certified lactation consultant. Pregnant women, dads and siblings welcome. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 349-3825. Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Games

Chess Club: See December 2.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See December 2. Read to a Dog: See December 2.

Music

Children's Sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See December 2.

Music With Mr. Chris: See December 2.

Nature & Science

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13. 10 a.m.5 p.m.

17 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Toddler Time Art Class: See December 3.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See December 3.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 3.

Kids in the Kitchen: Teacher Gifts: Parents finish their own holiday shopping while kids of all ages get busy making shortbread cookies, caramel sauce, hot chocolate mix and peppermint bark pretzels. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 4-6 p.m. $25 per child; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2.

shelburne open Gym: See December 2, noon. Williston open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Read to a dog: See December 4.

movies

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

music

moving & Grooving With christine: See December 3.

Preschool music With derek: See December 3. Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See December 3.

Nature & science

illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

18 THURSDAY

Arts & crafts

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

Pollywog Preschool Art drop-in: See December 4.

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2. 5:45-7:15 p.m.

montpelier La Leche League: Breastfeeding

moms make new friends as they discuss the joys and challenges of nursing. Snacks provided. Lending library available. Babies and toddlers welcome. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-1254.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Gingerbread Houses: See December 10.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2.

itty Bitty Public skating: See December 4.

shelburne open Gym: See December 2.

Yoga with danielle: See December 4.

Holidays

military Kids Holiday "drop & shop': Kids with parents in the armed services enjoy a fun-filled night of activities, games and food, while the grown-ups take care of their to-do lists. Ages 6-13 and younger siblings ages 3-5 if potty-trained. Camp Johnson, Colchester, 4-9 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 656-2073. stories on The screen: Kiddos make ornaments and eat cookies as they watch an animated holiday film based on a popular picture book. Ages 3 and up. South Burlington Community Library, 4-4:45 p.m. Free. Info, 652-7080.

Library & Books

community Book discussion: Readers chat about author Rainbow R. Rowell, author of Eleanor & Park and Fangirl. Milton Public Library, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Hinesburg Lego club: See December 4.

Lego Thursdays: See December 4.

'The Gingerbread Boy': The Traveling Storyteller presents this cute, seasonal tale, followed by a craft suited to preschoolers. Fairfax Community Library, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

movies

middle school Books-to-Film discussion: In December, bookworms read A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens in advance, then watch the movie version over snacks. Milton Public Library, 3:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

music

music for Preschoolers: See December 4.

Nature & science illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

Parenting

Winter Warming Party: Tots and their parents celebrate the interior of the Nest, Good Beginnings' new space for families, with a chili lunch and gingerbread decorating. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 595-7953.

Theater

'The christmas Revels': Help solve the Mystery of Haddon Hall! Drama and processionals, festive dance and glorious carols and music from the Middle Ages to the early 20th Century combine for a holiday extravaganza. Family night on December 18 gives audience members the opportunity to meet the cast and see the instruments used in the show at 6 p.m. before the performance. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, 7 p.m. $8-38. Info, 603-556-3083.

19 FRIDAY

Arts & crafts

Family Wheel drop-in: See December 5.

Parents Night out: Artistic kiddos engage in fun, creative activities while parents enjoy some "me time." Pizza dinner with veggies provided. ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 5:30-9:30 p.m. $30 for the first child; $10 for an additional child; preregister. Info, oneartscollective@ gmail.com.

Food

candy-cane-making demo: See December 3.

Games

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

Health & Fitness

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

Williston open Gym: See December 2.

Holidays

Holiday Artist market: From pen-and-ink drawings to bike-part art, local artisans offer one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts. All ages. Burlington City Hall Auditorium, 4-8 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166.

Library & Books

Early Bird math: See December 5.

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

movies

Holiday movie: 'Jack Frost': A father who has died returns as a snowman so he can make things right with his son in this heartwarming film. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

infant massage: See December 4. 19 FRidAY, p.38

Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT ShelburneMuseum.org

Flights of Fancy

an evil sorcerer’s curse turns a beautiful princess into a swan in the folktale-inspired ‘sWaN LaKE’ the classic tchaikovsky ballet premiered in moscow in 1877; in january, the State ballet theatre of russia brings it to Vermont as part of a u.S. tour. the company, which hails from celebrated dancer rudolf nureyev’s hometown of ufa, is no stranger to the Green mountain State. its performance of Sleeping Beauty captivated audiences in Stowe just last year. if you missed that show, here’s a second chance to be enchanted.

‘sWaN LaKE’: Saturday, January 31, at 7 p.m. at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe. Recommended for ages 7 and up. $20-75; 25 percent discount for a Family 4-Pack. Info, 760-4634. sprucepeakarts.org

19 Friday (continueD)

music

Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See December 5.

music With derek: See December 5.

music With robert: See December 5.

Nature & science

illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

Ongoing Exhibits

BUrLiNGToN ToWN cENTEr

Info, 658-2545

santa at Burlington Town center: Wishful kids visit with the big guy in red. Through December 24.

doWNToWN middLEBUry

Info, experiencemiddlebury.com

a Very merry middlebury: The college town is awash in holiday magic with an I Spy 10 Tiny Reindeer Contest, cut-outs of seasonal characters, free gift wrapping and a 25-cents-a-cup Hot Cocoa Hut in Cannon Park. (See calendar spotlight on page 31.) Visit bettermiddleburypartnership.org for more information. All ages. Through December 31.

EcHo LaKE aQUariUm aNd sciENcE cENTEr, BUrLiNGToN

Info, 864-1848

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

moNTsHirE mUsEUm

oF sciENcE, NorWicH

Info, 649-2200

‘only owls’: Forty two-dimensional artworks from the Woodson Art Museum’s collection provide insight into the fascinating world of these wise old birds. Through December 7.

VErmoNT FoLKLiFE cENTEr, middLEBUry

Info, 388-4964

Gingerbread House Exhibit: Visitors feast their eyes on small abodes made out of sweet treats. Opening reception Friday, December 5 from 4-6 p.m. Through December 20.

WoNdErFEET Kids’ mUsEUm, rUTLaNd

Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info, 282-2678

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

Theater

'The Christmas Revels': See December 18.

Nightfires: This winter solstice celebration, rooted in ancient tradition, features poetry and dance. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 8 p.m. $20-24. Info, 382-9222.

'Shrek the Musical': Rutland Youth Theatre presents this irreverently funny show about an ogre on a mission to rescue feisty Princess Fiona. All ages. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 7 p.m. $10-12. Info, 775-0903.

20 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

A Solstice Craft: Here comes the sun! Kids ages 5 and up celebrate its cycle by transforming a glass jar into a colorful "stained-glass" candle holder. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 865-7216.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: Weather permitting, jingling horses trot visitors over the snow on a wintry tour of rolling acres. Rides leave every 20 minutes; seats are first come, first served. Shelburne Farms, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $8-10; free for children under 3. Info, 985-8686.

Dance

Vermont's Own 'Nutcracker': Graceful ballerinas conquer the Mouse King and journey to the Land of Sweets in Vermont Ballet Theater's annual production of this holiday classic. Flynn MainStage, Burlington, 2 & 7 p.m. $22-35; children under 12 receive a 10 percent discount. Info, 863-5966.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 3, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Games

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

Health & Fitness

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, 9 & 10:10 a.m.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Holidays

Celebration of Lights: Crafts and activities help teach about Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa and Winter Solstice during this multicultural celebration. Carnival-themed games provide additional amusement. F. H. Tuttle Middle School, South Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 864-4108.

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Holiday Artist Market: See December 19, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Holiday with the Animals: A family-friendly party includes holiday refreshments, face painting, dog- and cat-toy making, and shelter animal visits. Humane Society/Central Vermont, East Montpelier, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; donations appreciated. Info, 476-3811.

Old-Fashioned Visits With Santa: The round guy in red fields last-minute gift requests before he heads back up to the North Pole. All ages. Danforth Pewter, Middlebury, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 377-3557.

Library & Books

Therapy Dogs of Vermont: See December 6, 10:30 a.m.

Nature & Science

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

My Sky: See December 6.

Theater

'The Christmas Revels': See December 18. 2 & 7 p.m.

Nightfires: See December 19. 4 & 8 p.m.

'Shrek the Musical': See December 19, 2 & 7 p.m.

21 SUNDAY

Arts & Crafts

Candle Making for Kids: Participants mind their own beeswax as they make sources of light. Ages 3 and up with an adult. City Market, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $5-10; adults free with paid child; preregister. Info, 861-9731.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2. 10:05-11:30 a.m.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Dance

‘The Nutcracker’: The beloved ballet, with Tchaikovsky’s soaring music, is brought to the stage by the Albany Berkshire Ballet. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 2 & 6 p.m. $29.50-39.50. Info, 775-0903.

Vermont's Own 'Nutcracker': See December 20, 1 & 6:30 p.m.

Food

Candy-Cane-Making Demo: See December 3.

Health & Fitness

Essex Sunday Open Gym: See December 7.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Nature & Science

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

My Sky: See December 6.

Far Out

What are stars made of? How can the Big Dipper help humans measure time? What’s daily life like for an astronomer? Budding scientists find out during Montshire Museum’s EARTH AND SPACE DAY, an event devoted to planetary and astronomical exploration. Hands-on learners make mini-air-powered rockets, sundials and solar-system models, then sit back for a puppet show that illustrates the rock cycle. A Night Sky Tour in the museum’s theater reveals the constellations and planets kids will be able to see after the sun goes down. Bring on the night!

EARTH AND SPACE DAY: Saturday, January 31, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich. Regular museum admission, $11-14; free for children under 2. Info, 649-2200. montshire.org

21 SUNDAY (CONTINUED)

Theater

'The Christmas Revels': See December 18, 1 & 5 p.m.

Nightfires: See December 19, 2 p.m.

22 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Christmas Ornament Workshop: Festive tweens make beautiful decorations for the holidays. Ages 10-12. Milton Public Library, 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Toddler Time Art Class: See December 3.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See December 8. Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Holiday

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 4. Little Yogis: See December 8.

Tots Yoga: See December 8.

Library & Books

Winter Solstice Celebration: The longest night of winter and the return of the sun is marked with stories, songs, crafts and snacks. First session for grades 3-5. Second session for grades 6-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3:30 & 4-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music

Kids Music with Raphael: See December 8. Music for Preschoolers: See December 4, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

Submit your February events for print by January 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.

23 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Creative Tuesdays: See December 2.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Community

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Games

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

Library & Books

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See December 2.

Read to a Dog: See December 2.

Music

Children's Sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See December 2.

Music With Mr. Chris: See December 2.

Nature & Science

ECHO Story Explorers: Jack Frost: Little listeners enjoy a winter story, then pretend they're melting icicles and experiment with ice. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10:30-11 a.m. Regular museum admission; $10.50-13.50; free for children under 3. Info, 877-324-6386.

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

24 WEDNESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See December 3.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Holiday

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6.

Music

Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See December 3.

PHOTOS: MONTSHIRE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE

25 THURSDAY

Merry Christmas!

26 FRIDAY

Arts & Crafts

Webby's Art Studio: Young artists get creative during the holiday break with changing activities each day, from snowman sock puppets to accordion books. All ages. Shelburne Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular winter museum admission, $5-8; free for children under 5. Info, 985-3346.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Food

Chocolate-Bar Making: Budding chocolatiers temper and mold the sweet stu , then create and wrap four goody-filled bars to take home. Children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult. South End Kitchen, Burlington, 3 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 864-0505.

Holiday

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math: See December 5.

Music

Kids Music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See December 5.

Nature & Science

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

27 SATURDAY

Arts & Crafts

Webby's Art Studio: See December 26, 11 a.m.3 p.m.

Community Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Food

Chocolate-Bar Making: See December 26. Kids in the Kitchen: Peanut Butter Banana Wontons: A lunchtime classic finds a di erent shape as kids learn how to seal and stu wonton wrappers, then pan-fry their creations to crunchy perfection. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 10-11 a.m. $20 per

adult-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Holiday

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Library & Books

See Dr. First videos

“First With Kids” at uvmhealth.org

Spanish Musical Playgroup: Rhymes, books, songs and crafts en español entertain niños. Snacks provided. Ages 5 and under. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

Nature & Science

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

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

My Sky: See December 6.

Theater

'Ruckus: A Cirque Spectacular': Aerialists, acrobats, jugglers and vaudeville characters wow audiences in this family-friendly circus show. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7 p.m. $20-46. Info, 760-4634.

28 SUNDAY

Arts & Crafts

Webby's Art Studio: See December 26, 11 a.m.3 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2, 10:05-11:30 a.m.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Food

Kids in the Kitchen: Mashed Potato Sundaes!: Gravy, cheddar cheese, scallions, bacon bits, sour cream and chili turn a flu y plate of potatoes into a flavorful masterpiece. All ages. Healthy Living Market and Café, South Burlington, 10-11 a.m. $20 per adult-child pair; preregister. Info, 863-2569.

Holiday

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Nature & Science

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

My Sky: See December 6.

29 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Toddler Time Art Class: See December 3. Webby's Art Studio: Build a Book: See December 26, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See December 8. Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

Community

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Little Yogis: See December 8. Tots Yoga: See December 8.

Library & Books

Intergenerational Dessert Book Discussion: Lit lovers gather for a good read-and-rant session, complete with something sweet. Grades 6 and up. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

'Rumpelstiltskin': The Traveling Storyteller presents the classic fairy tale of a little man who promises to spin straw into gold. All ages. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Movies

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

Music

Kids Music with Raphael: See December 8. Music for Preschoolers: See December 4, 11 a.m.

Nature & Science

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

30 TUESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Webby's Art Studio: See December 26, 11 a.m.3 p.m.

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2. Shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Food

Chocolate-Bar Making: See December 26.

Holiday

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Library & Books

'Little Red Riding Hood': The Traveling Storyteller presents a fairytale puppet show for kids ages 2-12. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

Gaming For Teens & Adults: See December 2. Read to a Dog: See December 2.

Movies

Vacation Movie: 'Maleficent': Angelina Jolie stars in the story of a vengeful fairy driven to curse an infant princess. Popcorn and drinks provided. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

Music

Children's Sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See December 2.

Music With Mr. Chris: See December 2.

Nature & Science

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

31 WEDNESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See December 3.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

First Night Burlington: Circus arts, theater, music, dance and fireworks at 5:40 p.m. and midnight make for a fun-filled New Year’s Eve celebration for kids and adults alike. All ages. (See calendar spotlight on page 42.) Downtown Burlington, noon-midnight. $5-20 First Night button; free for children under 3; $5 tickets required for Circus Smirkus and Vermont Youth Orchestra and Taiko Drummers at the Flynn. Info, 863-6005.

Party Like It’s 2015

Why wait until the sun goes down to celebrate the New Year? The Queen City gets an early start on the holiday with its annual allages event, FIRST NIGHT BURLINGTON. Cheer on a parade of dancing dragons. Feel the beat of traditional Japanese drums. Laugh it up at a kid-friendly comedy show. Stop by the Greater Burlington YMCA for make-and-take crafts or a dip in the pool. And see talented circus performers, musicians, dancers and theater troupes at a variety of downtown venues. The best part? The fireworks show starts at 5:40 p.m., which ensures the kids make it home before bedtime.

FIRST NIGHT BURLINGTON: Wednesday, December 31, from noon to midnight at various locations in downtown Burlington. All ages. $15-20 for adult buttons; $5 for kids buttons; free for kids under 3; additional $5 tickets required for Circus Smirkus, Vermont Youth Orchesta and Burlington Taiko. Info, 862-6005. firstnightburlington.com

Music

First Night St. Johnsbury: Thousands of revelers convene for first-rate entertainment, from the amazing feats of Nimble Arts’ Ruckus Circus to the fun-filled, family-oriented songs of Steven Lindholm. Downtown St. Johnsbury, 4 p.m.-midnight. $10-20

First Night button; free for preschoolers. Info, 748-2600.

Preschool Music With Derek: See December 3. Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See December 3.

Nature & Science

Illuminate the Lake: See December 13, 10 a.m.5 p.m.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 1

Happy New Year!

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

FirstRun New Year’s Day 5K: Families greet 2014 with their best foot forward at this jaunty, costumed race. Registration and packet pickup, 9:30-10:45 a.m.; kids fun runs, 10:30 a.m.; 5K, 11 a.m.; afterparty, 11:30 a.m. Memorial Auditorium, Burlington. $5-35. Info, 863-8412

Holidays

Christmas at the Farm: See December 6.

2 FRIDAY

Food

chocolate-Bar making: See December 26.

Library & Books

Early Bird math: See December 5.

music

Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See December 5.

3 SATURDAY

arts & crafts

Kids Building Workshop: See December 6.

community

shelburne Farms sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Food chocolate-Bar making: See December 26.

Health & Fitness

yoga Tots: See December 13.

Library & Books

Therapy dogs of Vermont: See December 6.

Nature & science

my sky: See December 6.

4 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Postnatal yoga: See December 7.

Burlington Prenatal yoga: See December 2, 10:05-11:30 a.m.

community

shelburne Farms sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Nature & science

my sky: See December 6.

Theater

'The secret Garden': The Opera Theatre of Weston premiers its musical adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic tale of an orphan who unlocks a hidden world. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 2 & 6 p.m. $15-30. Info, 775-0903.

5 MONDAY

arts & crafts

Toddler Time art class: See December 3.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal yoga: See December 8.

Vergennes Prenatal yoga: See December 8.

community

Full moon sleigh Ride: Draft horses pull bundled-up winter revelers along snowy paths to gaze at the stars. Weather permitting. All ages. Shelburne Farms, 5:30, 6:05 & 6:40 p.m.

$8-10; free for children under 3; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Games

Lego club: See December 15, 3:30-5 p.m.

Health & Fitness

itty Bitty Public skating: See December 4.

Little yogis: See December 8. Tots yoga: See December 8.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See December 15, 10-10:30 a.m.

Write Now!: Best-selling authors-to-be get inspired to start penning a book or poem. Grades

6-12. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester,

6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

young adult advisory Board: See December

5.

music

Kids music with Raphael: See December 8.

music for Preschoolers: See December 4, 11 a.m.

6 TUESDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal yoga: See December 2.

shelburne Prenatal yoga: See December 2.

Games chess club: See December 2.

Health & Fitness

Library & Books

Fairfax Game Night: See December 2. Read to a dog: See December 2.

music

children's sing-along With Lesley Grant: See December 2.

music With mr. chris: See December 2.

7 WEDNESDAY

arts & crafts

Toddler Time art class: See December 3.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal yoga: See December 3.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2.

shelburne open Gym: See December 2, noon.

Williston open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

dorothy canfield Fisher Book discussion: See December 3.

music

Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See December 3.

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

7 WEdNEsday, p.44

REAL FUN! Real Science.

8 THURSDAY

Games

St. Albans Legos: See December 11.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 4.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Hinesburg Lego Club: See December 4.

Library Teen Advisory Group: See December 4.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See December 4.

9 FRIDAY

•

•

Education

Theater

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

11 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

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

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2. 10:05-11:30 a.m.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Essex Sunday Open Gym: See December 7.

•

•

$2

Montshire

Homeschool Project Day: See December 12.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2. Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math: See December 5.

Music

Kids Music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See December 5.

Music With Derek: See December 5.

10 SATURDAY

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, 9 & 10:10 a.m.

Snowshoe Demos: Explore the farm trails atop snowshoes on free rentals provided by EMS. Shelburne Farms, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 985-8686.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Library & Books

Dads Derby Day: Kids and their pops create race tracks, then let cars zoom down. Ages 9-12. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister. Info, 893-4644.

Now Enrolling

Nature & Science

My Sky: See December 6. Playdate! Winter on the Farm: Little ones have a hoot with indoor educational activities and a visit from a live owl. Ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult. Drop-ins welcome. Shelburne Farms, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $3-5. Info, 985-8686.

Nature & Science

Drawing Birds in Motion: Working from photos, videos and live subjects, fledgling artists spend an artistic afternoon exploring the anatomy and artistry of feathered creatures. Ages 12 and up. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 1-4 p.m. $15-20; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

My Sky: See December 6.

12 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Toddler Time Art Class: See December 3.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

Games

After-School Games: See December 15.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 4.

Little Yogis: See December 8.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, 10 a.m., 12 & 5:30 p.m.

Tots Yoga: See December 8.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Pajama Story Time: See December 10.

Music

Kids Music with Raphael: See December 8.

Music for Preschoolers: See December 4, 11 a.m.

13 TUESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington La Leche League: See December 9.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Games

Chess Club: See December 2.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Read to a Dog: See December 2.

Music

Children's Sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See December 2.

Music With Mr. Chris: See December 2.

14 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Toddler Time Art Class: See December 3.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See December 3.

Education

History for Homeschoolers: See December 10.

Games

Family Game Night: See December 10.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, noon.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Lego Club: See December 10.

Music

Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See December 3.

15 THURSDAY

Education

History for Homeschoolers: See December 10.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 4.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Hinesburg Lego Club: See December 4.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See December 4.

16 FRIDAY

Arts & Crafts

Parents Night Out: See December 19.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2.

shelburne open Gym: See December 2, noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

Williston open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Early Bird math: See December 5.

music

Kids music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See December 5.

music With derek: See December 5.

Nature & science

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

17 SATURDAY

Arts & crafts

sock monkey class: Creative types of all ages make a silly stuffed sock creation for a community art show. ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $20 per family. Info, oneartscollective@gmail.com.

community

shelburne Farms sleigh Rides: See December 20. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Nature Walk: Budding naturalists walk to the edge of the woods in search of animals, tracks and nature sounds. All ages. Weather dependent. Fairfax Community Library, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 849-2420.

shelburne open Gym: See December 2. 9 & 10:10 a.m.

Library & Books

Therapy dogs of Vermont: See December 6. third Saturday of every month, 10:30 a.m.

music

Tap Along with miss Flora: Little music makers hum, wiggle and bounce along for a rockin' morning of singing, dancing and storytelling. Ages 5 and under. ONE Arts Center, Burlington, 9-10:15 a.m. $8-10; $3 for siblings. Info, oneartscollective@gmail.com.

Nature & science

my sky: See December 6.

Winter Wildlife detectives: Young naturalists learn about animals who are active in the colder months, then search for tracks, scat and pellets around the farm. Ages 5 and up. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-noon. $10-12 per parent-child pair; $5-6 for each additional child; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Theater

saturday drama club: See January 10.

18 SUNDAY

Baby & maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2, 10:05-11:30 a.m.

community

shelburne Farms sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Essex sunday open Gym: See December 7.

Nature & science

my sky: See December 6.

19 MONDAY

Arts & crafts

Toddler Time Art class: See December 3.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

community

martin Luther King Jr. day celebration:

Family-friendly programming honors the legacy of Dr. King. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Special $4 admission price. Info, 877-324-6386.

Games

Lego club: See December 15.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2.

itty Bitty Public skating: See December 4.

Little Yogis: See December 8.

shelburne open Gym: See December 2, 10

a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m.

Tots Yoga: See December 8.

Williston open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Babies & Toddlers Rock: See December 15.

music

Kids music with Raphael: See December 8.

20 TUESDAY

Baby & maternity

Breastfeeding cafe: See December 16.

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Games

chess club: See December 2.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2.

shelburne open Gym: See December 2.

Williston open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Read to a dog: See December 2.

music

children's sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See December 2.

music With mr. chris: See December 2.

21 WEDNESDAY

Arts & crafts

Toddler Time Art class: See December 3.

Baby & maternity

montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See December 3.

Education

one-on-one Tutoring: Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences students school elementary-age kids in reading, math and science. Ages 6-12. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-5660.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2. shelburne open Gym: See December 2, noon. Williston open Gym: See December 2.

movies

marshfield Family-Themed movies: See December 17.

music

Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See December 3.

22 THURSDAY

Baby & maternity

cloth diapering made Easy: Mamas learn the ins and outs, ups and downs, and wets and drys of this money-saving, environmentally sound diapering method. Good Beginnings, Montpelier, noon-2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 595-7953.

Health & Fitness

Essex open Gym: See December 2. itty Bitty Public skating: See December 4. shelburne open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Hinesburg Lego club: See December 4. Tea Party story Hour: Kids cozy up with a warm cuppa for books and crafts. Come in tea party attire. Recommended for ages 3-8. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

music

music for Preschoolers: See December 4.

Nature & science

Predator Prowl: Preschoolers and their parents practice crunching with their canines, catching with their talons and munching with their mandibles as they learn about animals who hunt. Ages 3-5. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 9-10:30 a.m. $8-10 per adult-child pair; $4 for each additional child. Info, 434-3068.

JAN CALENDAR

23 FRIDAY

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2. Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math: See December 5.

Movies

'Grease' Sing-A-Long-A: Don't forget your Pink Ladies jacket for a spirited showing of the John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John classic. Audience participation essential! Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, Burlington, 8 p.m. $1520. Info, 863-5966.

Music

Kids Music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See December 5. Music With Derek: See December 5.

Story Times

MONDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TUESDAY

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

Barre Children’s Story Hour: See Monday.

Burlington Stories with Megan: Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 865-7216.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nature & Science

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

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

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

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

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

Montpelier Story Time: Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 893-4644.

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

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY

Colchester Pajama Story Time: Burnham Memorial Library, Dec. 17 and Jan. 14, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.

Essex Junction Preschool Story Time: See Tuesday. 10-10:45 a.m.

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

Highgate Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Warren Preschool Story & Enrichment

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

THURSDAY

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

Fairfax PJ Story Time: Fairfax Community Library, Dec. 4, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.

Northfield Children’s Story

Time: See Monday. 10-11 a.m.

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

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

St. Albans Story Hour: See Monday.

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

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

Winooski Preschool Story

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

FRIDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Montpelier Story Time: See Tuesday.

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

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

24 SATURDAY Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Education

One-on-One Tutoring: See January 21, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, 9 & 10:10 a.m.

St. Johnsbury Story Time: St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 748-8291. Stowe Baby & Toddler Story Time: Stowe Free Library, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145.

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

SATURDAY

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

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

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

South Burlington Story Time: See Wednesday.

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

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

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

SUNDAY

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

Williston Open Gym: See December 2, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Music

Tap Along with Miss Flora: See January 17.

Nature & Science

My Sky: See December 6.

Theater

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

Saturday Drama Club: See December 6.

25 SUNDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2, 10:05-11:30 a.m.

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Fairs & Festivals

Ice on Fire Festival: The community pays tribute to winter with a parade, games, theater, singing, storytelling and a huge closing bonfire. All ages. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 2-5 p.m. $1-5 suggested donation. Info, 229-6206.

Health & Fitness

Essex Sunday Open Gym: See December 7.

Nature & Science

My Sky: See December 6.

26 MONDAY

Arts & Crafts

Toddler Time Art Class: See December 3.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

Vergennes Prenatal Yoga: See December 8.

Education

One-on-One Tutoring: See January 21, 58 p.m.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 4.

Little Yogis: See December 8.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, 10 a.m., noon & 5:30 p.m.

Tots Yoga: See December 8.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Intergenerational Dessert Book Discussion: See December 29.

Music

Kids Music with Raphael: See December 8.

Music for Preschoolers: See December 4, 11 a.m.

27 TUESDAY

Baby & Maternity

Burlington Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Shelburne Prenatal Yoga: See December 2.

Games

Chess Club: See December 2.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Read to a Dog: See December 2.

Music

Children's Sing-Along With Lesley Grant: See December 2.

Music With Mr. Chris: See December 2.

28 WEDNESDAY

Arts & Crafts

Toddler Time Art Class: See December 3.

Baby & Maternity

Montpelier Postnatal Yoga: See December 3. Nursing Beyond a Year: See December 24.

Education

One-on-One Tutoring: See January 21.

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, noon.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Music

Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate: See December 3.

28 WEDNESDAY, P.48 Submit

JAN CALENDAR

29 THURSDAY

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Itty Bitty Public Skating: See December 4.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Hinesburg Lego Club: See December 4.

Music

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

$10-12 per adult-child pair; $5-6 per each additional child; preregister. Info, 985-8686.

Health & Fitness

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, 9 & 10:10 a.m.

Library & Books

Spanish Musical Playgroup: See December 27.

Music

Music for Preschoolers: See December 4.

30 FRIDAY

Health & Fitness

Essex Open Gym: See December 2.

Shelburne Open Gym: See December 2, noon, 2 & 6 p.m.

Williston Open Gym: See December 2.

Library & Books

Early Bird Math: See December 5.

Music

Kids Music With Linda 'Tickle Belly' Bassick: See December 5. Music With Derek: See December 5.

Nature & Science

Full Moon Snowshoe Hike: See December 5.

31 SATURDAY

Community

Shelburne Farms Sleigh Rides: See December 20, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Dance

'Swan Lake': The State Ballet Theatre of Russia presents this beloved Russian folktale, in which a young princess is transformed into an elegant bird. (See calendar spotlight on page 38). Recommended for ages 7 and up. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe, 7 p.m. $20-75. Info, 760-4634.

Education

One-on-One Tutoring: See January 21. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sharing the Wonder of Winter: Educators, parents and teen homeschoolers explore animal tracks, winter birds, trees and forts to learn new ways to share nature with children in this professional development workshop. Audubon Vermont, Huntington, 10 a.m.-noon. $10-15; preregister. Info, 434-3068.

Food

Bake & Shake: Dairy devotees make their own bread and butter to eat, then explore other fun things to make with flour. Ages 4 and up. Shelburne Farms, 9:30-11:30 a.m. & 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Mr. Chris Concert: The local children's musician performs songs to engage little listeners. Recommended for ages 8 and under. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 482-2878.

Nature & Science

My Sky: See December 6.

Earth & Space Day: A full day of planetary and astronomical exploration promises to be out of this world. (See calendar spotlight on page 40). All ages. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Regular museum admission, $10-14. Info, 649-2208.

Theater

Saturday Drama Club: See December 6.

Say you

Winter Playground

WHEN SNOW FALLS, spirits rise at the Mezitts’ Richmond home. The family of four loves skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and snowskating — essentially skateboarding on snow. And they don’t have to leave home for much of their outdoor fun. “We have four acres of land, and it’s kind of a winter wonderland when there’s snow on the ground,” says mom Cara.

During the last two winters, she and dad Brian have built an igloo for their two boys — Will, 7, and Cullen, 5. Last year, they added a snow cave and

a 100-foot-long luge track with five banked turns.

The Mezitts’ terrainpark tradition started on a snowy day when their sons’ plastic snow-brick molds caught Brian’s eye.

Parents: Brian and Cara Mezitt Sons: Will, 7, and Cullen, 5

“He’s a mechanical engineer, so he builds things,” Cara says. He made snow bricks and lined them up in a horseshoe shape. With the boys’ help, he added layers, leaning the bricks toward the middle so the final product was shaped like a beehive. It stood about 4-and-a-half feet tall.

A fallen tree in the woods behind the house inspired the snow cave. Brian laid pine branches against it, and the boys played inside. When snow fell, it became a cozy hideaway where the family sipped hot chocolate together.

The luge track, on a slope in their yard, was built entirely out of packed snow. “I have a blast out there, too,” Cara says, noting that she had a hard time getting her sons to come in at night that winter. “They do the luge track with headlamps on,” she says.

WHEN BUILDING AN IGLOO, all you need is a snow-brick mold and good, packable snow. “It’s got to be ‘snowman snow’,” Cara says. “Start small, because you don’t want a huge structure falling on you.”

WANT TO MAKE A KNOCKOUT SNOW CREATION? Sometimes all it takes is enthusiasm. When the first snow fell in early November, it measured no more than 2 inches, but Will and Cullen built a 4-foot-tall snowman. “They rolled every inch of snow off the lawn they could,” says their mother.

The Mezitts’ luge track and igloo

PUZZLE PAGE

Birthday

Winners get gift certificates to:

Congratulations

GRAND-PRIZE WINNER

Puzzles4Kids

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 HOVANEC

JACK lives in Colchester and turns 4 on December 8. He’s a budding musician who loves to walk around the house singing and playing his little guitar. He has even been known to sleep with his instruments.

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

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

SADIE lives in South Burlington and turns 8 on December 25. She loves school, crafts, pasta and riding her bike.

under

than

LILLIANA lives in Essex Junction and turns 6 on January 21. She loves to draw, swim and play with her younger sister. She also really enjoys the monkey bars at school.

MINI-GOLF

NewNewYear,Look?

Kids VT is thinking about changing things up in 2015, and we’d love to hear from you. What should we keep? What should we change?

Tell

Some of our favorite features from 2014:

<< Habitat: Sculptural Woodpile

Liked 600 times on Facebook

Free-Range Toddlers: A farm-based childcare program counters the overprotective parenting trend

Liked 485 times on Facebook

<< Father Time: A Burlington parenting group helps men become better dads

Class Acts: Six teachers prepare for the big day

Liked 155 times on Facebook

<< Bump on a Blog: Joni James Houghton

On the Fly: >> Bumps in the Road

Essay: A Vermont Mom Experiments with Simplicity Parenting

Liked 250 times on Facebook

The Art of Do-It-Yourself Costumes >>

Essay: Picking Your Battles Against Technology

Liked 60 times on Facebook

Just Post It: Kids VT puts familyscrapbooking app Notabli to the test

COLORING CONTEST!

Three winners will receive 1 game and shoes for a family of 4, a large pizza and a pitcher of soda at Champlain Lanes

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

Rising Son

A father’s expectations change when his child is born with Down syndrome

in The summer of 1978, my wife, Tess, and I lay on the grass at an outdoor concert, strains of Mozart flowing through the air. “Here,” she said, placing my hand on her swelling abdomen. I could feel the baby moving to the music. We speculated that our child would become a dancer or a musician — or a football player.

Our healthy baby boy was born early, rosy and in a caul, completely encased in the thin membrane of the amniotic sac. Legend says that children born this way will never drown. It’s a sign of good luck.

We counted his fingers and toes: Ten of each. But when the doctor finally arrived an hour later, he said, “I knew something was wrong. A little Mongolism, maybe.”

His words pierced us like a knife. He was referring to Down syndrome. We’d done everything right. How could this happen?

The day after the birth, a bedraggled social worker arrived at the hospital. It was Saturday, and we could tell she didn’t want to be with us. “You don’t have to keep this child, you know,” she told us. “There are places for children like him.”

I was stunned. Tess was defiant. “He is our son, and we will love him no matter what!” she said.

Still, I had doubts. Seeking guidance, I called a priest friend, Mark, who had adopted a child who was later discovered to have profound disabilities. “I don’t believe in a God who causes children to be born with disabilities,” Mark told me. “I believe in a God who reaches out to us with arms of love.”

Those words resonated with me. In a complicated situation, one thing became clear: Our expectations, not our child, would have to change. Our son wasn’t some sort of karmic payback. Raising him would become an exploration into the meaning of love. We named him Christopher, which is derived from Greek, meaning Christ-bearer.

Chris grew more slowly than other children. He moved at a different pace, and needed constant reminders to complete simple tasks. We had to keep vigilant with schools and the agencies that were required to help him achieve his goals. Fiercely protective, Tess spent the next 20 years advocating for him.

Chris was 29 and living at a residential school in Connecticut for adults with disabilities when he met Annie, who also has Down syndrome. I came over to his apartment one morning to find that she had slept over. Soon after, we took Chris and Annie out for dinner, and

By r o B er T sT uhlmann

she approached me. “You’ve got to talk to Chris about a ring,” she said.

I was happy Chris had found love, but was still concerned about some of the choices the two of them were making. Chris and Annie spent a lot of time together at McDonald’s and were putting on weight. It was clear they needed a healthier lifestyle and more supervision.

Every parent I know with such a child has the same fear: What will happen when we’re gone, or no longer able to care for him? I learned that Chris had a similar fear when I read one of his poems:

The rambling man

Like the preacher’s son Is looking for a place

To call home.

Chris found that place a few years ago when he moved to Heartbeet Lifesharing in Hardwick — one of 11 “Camphill communities” in the U.S. and Canada. At Heartbeet, adults with disabilities live and farm together with an experienced team of residential staff.

Annie wasn’t sure she wanted to move to the country. But when she visited Chris there, she changed her mind. The couple decided they wanted to live in a committed relationship. She moved in six months later.

Over the next five years, Heartbeet staff helped Chris and Annie identify their goals and improve their relational skills. Chris needed to speak up for himself; Annie needed to reduce her tendency to speak for him.

Last May, the two of them got engaged in an outdoor ceremony at Heartbeet. With a ring in his hand, Chris knelt on one knee and proposed to her. “Yes! I will!” Annie replied, and he placed the ring on her finger. After a long embrace and dramatic kiss, she held up her finger and jumped for joy.

Knowing that your child has found a caring community and a loving partner is one of any parent’s greatest joys. When the Heartbeet staff told me, “Chris will always have a home here,” tears welled in my eyes. My heart was full.

Chris didn’t become a dancer, or a musician, or a football player. But he sure can swim. He can beat me easily in a 20-yard race, his lean body cutting through the lake waters.

And Christopher has lived up to his name. He has a kind and gentle demeanor and, at times, helps me see to the heart of things.

In a world filled with displaced wanderers looking for a home, Chris has found a place to be with friends — and his love — close to the land and at peace with himself.  And I am grateful. K

JUmbLES red. hunt. mind. bend.

RIDDLE ANSWER: What gets smaller when you turn it upside down — thE NUmbER NINE

RIDDLE SEARCh ANSWER: eat alphabet soup.

every parent i know with such a child has the same fear: What will happen when we’re gone, or no longer able to care for him?

Annie and Chris at Heartbeet