Colorado Parent November 2021 by Colorado Parent Magazine

November 2021

Meet 14-year-old Lindsay List, the Denver teen who created her own literacy program.

Growing Great Families Since 1986

5 Colorado Kids Making a Difference Strengthen Your Family Gratitude Practice

Celebrate Colorado’s Indigenous Cultures

Must-Have Snow Gear for Kids 93 Ideas for Family Fun

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2020

CONTENTS November 2021 advertising

features How giving thanks for the little things can impact your family’s life.

departments 6

ON THE WEB

FROM THE EDITORS

SOLUTIONS

GOOD STUFF

GOOD TO KNOW

FAMILY FOOD

LET’S GO

Lessons Learned

New Home for Denver Zoo’s Penguins

A Cozy Wellness Spot for Families

on the cover

Meet five teens taking up leadership roles in the community.

The latest tips and news on ColoradoParent.com

Keep Kids Happy During Travel Delays

Must-Have Snow Gear for Kids

Don’t Cook Thanksgiving Dinner!

ROUNDUP

Connect With Indigenous Cultures

17 Must-Have Snow Gear for Kids | 20 Family Gratitude Practice 32 Colorado Kids Making a Difference | 37 93 Ideas for Family Fun 46 Celebrate Colorado’s Indigenous Cultures

Colorado Parent | November 2021

Faces of Boulder and Denver

COLORADO KIDS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

MAKE GRATITUDE A PRIORITY

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Our monthly roundup of local events, featuring virtual and in-person activities around town.

Cover: Lindsay photographed at Second Star to the Right Books by Heather Smith. secondstartotherightbooks.com, fortuitousphotography.com

Family: Getty Images. Calendar: Matthew Murphy.

2020

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On the Web

Colorado Parent Online Child with pumpkin craft: Cavan Images/Getty Images. Refugee Support: Project Worthmores. Child with craft: Natalia Bodrova/Getty Images. Soup: Getty Images.

Thanksgiving Week Camps and Activities Bring the family together with a festive fun run, or send the stir crazy kids to an adventurous camp.

Local Support for Refugees and Immigrants Give or receive help, so that all Colorado families can thrive.

12 Easy-to-Make Turkey Day Crafts Kick off the holiday and keep your kids busy with these adorably festive projects.

Quick Recipes for Cold, Busy Nights Dinners that let you serve up comfort food with ease.

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Colorado Parent | November 2021

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AN ALL-NEW GAYLORD HOTELS® ORIGINAL EXPERIENCE

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From the Editors

What We Learned…

LO V

EDITORIAL edit@coloradoparent.com Editor Deborah Mock Senior Associate Editor Kara Thompson Editorial Assistant Anna Sutterer Copy Editor Lydia Rueger

Stuck in travel limbo? Check out ideas for keeping kids happy during flight delays on page 16.

ADVERTISING SALES Advertising Director Brigette Swartz brigette@coloradoparent.com Account Manager Hilary Angel hilary@coloradoparent.com

PRODUCTION Art Director Heather Gaumer

VE EA

TRENDING

Native American Heritage Month Check out our list of places to explore and celebrate Colorado's Indigenous cultures. Page 46

Leave the cooking and dishes to someone else this year. Here's where to order Thanksgiving dinner instead. Page 18

CAN’T WAIT Outdoor winter activities are back! We can't wait to pull out the cozy gloves and hats and get the family out in the winter wonderland. We found some must-have kids' snow gear to keep the littles toasty on the slopes or in the backyard. Page 17

BRAND SERVICES Brand Services Director Carly Lambert Print Operations Director Megan Skolak Creative Services Manager Chelsea Conrad Digital Advertising Manager Shundra Jackson Graphic Designer Caitlin Brooks Production Coordinator Alyssa Chutka Design Coordinator Mylie Hiraoka Advertising and Marketing Coordinator Tamara Curry Creative Services Intern Dzifah Danso MARKETING Director of Marketing Piniel Simegn ADMINISTRATION Billing and Collections Manager Jessica McHeard circulation@coloradoparent.com Printed by Publication Printers Please recycle this magazine. 5280 PUBLISHING, INC. 1675 Larimer Street Suite 675, Denver, CO 80202 P (303) 832-5280 | F (303) 832-0470 Visit us online at ColoradoParent.com

YOU SAID IT It’s nearly impossible to feel grateful and envious at the same time. —Jarod Williams, a father of two and therapist at The Child and Family Therapy Center of Denver. Read more benefits of gratitude starting on page 20.

Share your feedback and ideas! Email us at edit@coloradoparent.com.

Section icons: Getty Images.

Colorado kids are creative, hardworking, and generous humans. The five teens we recognize in our 2021 Kids Making a Difference article use their time and talents to give books to kids in need, entertain Children's Hospital Colorado patients, fight climate change, and more. Read their stories starting on page 32.

Things that inspired this issue, and what our editors discovered along the way.

Colorado Parent | November 2021

CEO & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Daniel Brogan VICE PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Zach Wolfel Colorado Parent is published monthly by 5280 Publishing, Inc. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. Limit of one free copy per reader. Additional copies can be purchased for $5.00 per issue. Call (303) 320-1000 to request additional copies. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products, or services are endorsed by the Publisher. Editorial submissions are welcome. Colorado Parent (ISSN 1937-1020) ©2020 5280 Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

The perfect snow day is coming! Spend your day gliding around the rink, sledding on REAL snow, sipping hot cocoa by a toasty fire and much, much more. Visit mychildsmuseum.org for more info on our new winter experience, open December 8 - February 27.

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November 2021 | ColoradoParent.com

Joy in a Gift. enstrom.com

Good to Know HELPFUL NEWS, IDEAS, AND TIPS FOR COLORADO PARENTS

Zoo: Kara Thompson.

The Penguins Have a New Home!

A new and improved penguin habitat opened at the Denver Zoo on September 30. Although endangered in their native range, 18 African penguins now have a safe (and quite posh) place to call home. The Pinnacol African Penguin Point habitat features a 10,000-gallon pool for swimming, wave machine, multiple burrows and nest boxes, and surfaces that mimic the birds’ Cape of Good Hope origins. Zoo guests have access to 40 feet of underwater viewing space. denverzoo.org —Kara Thompson

November 2021 | ColoradoParent.com

Good to Know

Does your kid dream of making a name for themselves in the arts? Students enrolled in seventh through 12th grade (and at least 13 years old) are invited to enter their work in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, a national competition dating back to 1923 with famed alumni including Andy Warhol, Ken Burns, and Amanda Gorman. Works with themes in current events, grief, human-caused climate change, and political or social issues are eligible for $1,000 scholarships. Tuition to summer programs and higher education are also available. Selections from each year's national medalists are featured in exhibitions throughout the country. Grace Abboud, a Boulder-based artist, won a national Silver Medal award and a $200 scholarship to the CU Denver LYNX National Arts and Media Camp for her fashion entry last year. Then an eighth grader, Abboud repurposed hot tub covers to create a jacket, top, and skirt outfit called “Hand-Me-Down Hot Tubs.” Using a sewing machine and weaving small cut strips into the jacket, she created an intricate patterned look. “I take pride in the fine details because it makes a piece that is much more interesting to me as a designer and to others viewing my work,” Abboud says. “I understand that this approach is much more difficult, but to me it's always worth it to take the harder path and get better results.” Interested students can enter through the Scholastic website. The deadline for writing works is December 6, and art works is January 6. Regional winners will be announced in late January, 2022. artandwriting.org —Anna Sutterer

Natural Urbanity: Cheriece Peterson. Scholastic Awards: Grace Abboud. Service Saturday: A Little Help.

Submit Creative Works to the 2022 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

Business owner and mother of 5, Cheriece Peterson, creates natural products for hair and skin.

Moisturizer for the Whole Body and Whole Family Seven years ago, shortly after transitioning her hair from relaxed to coily, Denver-based mother of five Cheriece Peterson found that many commercial products, besides being expensive, also had potentially harmful ingredients. She researched how to make her own, and launched Natural Urbanity. Peterson’s hair and body products never contain petroleum, paraben, phthalates, or mineral oil. They do include lavender, rosemary, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powders. “[Consumers] should feel confident that the natural product they are using has all of the good stuff and none of the bad,” Peterson says.

Because the winter can be particularly harsh on the skin and scalp, Peterson recommends using the Butter Creme, Butter Love, and Triple Butter Lip Balm this season, which are safe for all ages to use. While her hair products were designed mainly for the coily and curly community, the Herbal Hair Tea helps bring all hair back to normal pH levels, and the Herbal Hair Oil helps soften and seal in moisture. Gift sets and custom products are available for the holidays. Customers can add personalized wording on the labels and choose from a variety of natural scents on certain products. naturalurbanity.com/shop —Anna Sutterer

Give a Little Help This Fall

Boulder teen Grace Abboud won a national Silver Medal in the Scholastic Art & Writing awards fashion category for her garment skillfully crafted from recycled hot tub covers.

Colorado Parent | November 2021

Falling leaves are piling up and seasonal plants are toppling over…and many older adults in the Denver metro area are struggling to tackle their autumn yard work. That’s where the volunteers from the Denver-based nonprofit, A Little Help, step in to lend a hand. Like a team of service superheroes, families and groups don their work gloves to support their older neighbors with chores like raking, decluttering, window washing, trimming bushes, and gutter cleanup. These Service Saturdays, held twice a year, are open to anyone who would like to volunteer, including teens and kids (those under 13 must be accompanied by an adult).

Service Saturday volunteers help older adults with home and yard chores. This fall’s Service Saturday in Metro Denver is on November 6, and includes a morning meetup for doughnuts and a celebratory lunch to finish the day. Families interested in volunteering should reach out to A Little Help. alittlehelp.org/ServiceSaturdays

As the world continues to change, we change with it. We want to bring you all that Colorado Parent has to offer—and now you can have it right at your fingertips! NOW YOU CAN READ THE FULL ISSUE FOR FREE ONLINE!

VISIT COLORADOPARENT.COM TO READ THE LATEST ISSUE

November 2021 | ColoradoParent.com

Good to Know | Let’s Go

Nurture interior, exterior: Nurture Café.

LET’S GO

Nurture

A Cozy Wellness Spot for Families By Kara Thompson VIBE: A healthy dose of self-care for your whole family TRAVEL TIME: Less than 10 minutes from downtown Denver TIP: Parking spots in the main lot can be scarce. Follow the signs on West 29th Avenue to find more spaces. Take one step into Nurture and the calm atmosphere and minimalist decor will help you feel instantly relaxed. The wellness marketplace, located between the Highland Park and West Highland neighborhoods, offers a variety of soothing, energizing, and nourishing services. Complete with a café, fitness center, spa, family therapy offices, and retail shops, Nurture is a space where families can meet a handful of wellbeing needs under one roof. SEEK PRENATAL OR POSTPARTUM CARE Home to more than 40 healthcare providers, Nurture offers a variety of services that focus on the needs of new and expectant mothers. See a lactation specialist so you can meet your breastfeeding goals, schedule a physical therapy session to help with recovery from childbirth, or connect with a doula to gain support throughout a pregnancy.

Nurture wellcare marketplace brings together fitness, spa, retail, and family therapy services in one location.

ENJOY A MEAL Even if you don’t have an entire afternoon to spare, treat yourself to a wholesome meal from Nurture’s café. The restaurant partners with local farmers to deliver dishes with clean, quality ingredients. Try the seasonal soup, salmon ginger salad, or berry beauty smoothie. Little diners love the PB&J overnight oats and lemon blueberry scones, both of which are made without refined sugar. GET MOVING In November, Nurture will host Youth Fitness Classes every Wednesday at 7 p.m. The classes will be run by fitness experts from Team Testa Wellness, a local company that specializes in family coaching and education. Drop off active kiddos (ages eight to 13) for a fun class designed to provide a lowstress, encouraging environment. FOSTER COMMUNICATION Along with the youth fitness classes, Andrea Testa, owner of Team Testa, and Brynn Goldberg from Peak Pursuits counseling, will be hosting a workshop focused on family communication, collaboration, and movement on Tuesday, November 16 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The class will start with an educational chat about managing preholiday stressors and finish with a workout that includes both strength training and cardio. visitnurture.com

Colorado Parent | November 2021

The Nest Café + Bar at Nurture serves up a selection of salads,

bowls, smoothies, and baked goods.

SCHEDULE YOUR DONATION Colorado Gives Day is Dec 7.

Every donation gets an extra boost from a $1.6 million Colorado Gives Day Incentive Fund.

Good to Know | Solutions

How Do I Keep My Family Happy During Major Travel Delays? A family travel expert, an airport representative, and a mom who has “been there, done that” weigh in. Edited by Courtney Drake-McDonough

THE MOM WHO HAS TRAVELED EXTENSIVELY WITH HER KIDS SAYS… “Play games or activities that don’t require you to pack something extra, and pick things that people of every age can play so no one is left out. Ideas include the Letter Game: Someone sings the alphabet in their head and when a person says “stop,” they say the letter out loud and everyone has to think of a country, name, color, city, fruit, etc. starting with that letter. With 20 Questions, children come up with the most creative things for everyone to guess such as dragons and fairies or characters on their favorite TV shows. Creating TikToks with the family can be a great bonding activity. Try choreographing dances together or lip syncing your favorite lines from a TikTok audio.“ —Sandra Aris, Los Angeles, CEO of Sandra Aris Inc., mother of three girls, ages eight, 12, and 14.

THE FAMILY TRAVEL BLOGGER SAYS… “Unless you’re absolutely sure the plane won’t leave for at least two hours (and the security line is fast) don’t leave the airport! Times and availability can change quickly and the plane won’t wait for you. Ask the gate agent if they have free meal vouchers to use at the airport and credit toward another flight if your plane is significantly delayed. Airport lounges often have comfortable seating, free food, snacks, and drinks, and sometimes even beds and showers. You can pay to use them or they can be a free perk to frequent fliers and credit card holders. Talk about your destination. Google it or snag a guide book from a gift shop, or talk about things you already know like, “the pool has a slide,” or “the ice cream is supposed to be great.” Kids may complain less and have more fun when they have specific things to anticipate. “ —Kelli Nielson, Denver, author of the Tripfixers blog, mom of a four-month-old daughter and a three-year-old son.

Colorado Parent | November 2021

“Many airports, including Denver International Airport (DEN), have resources like coloring books and crayons at information booths. Our airport, like many others, is also filled with artwork. It can be a great learning experience to see art and read descriptions. We have aviation-related activities on the Camp DEN part of our website. And watch for the Canine Airport Therapy Squad (CATS) with guide dogs in purple plaid “pet me” vests—ask for their trading cards. The sky bridge to Terminal A currently offers travelers the Winter Festivals exhibit, featuring competition apparel, tools, and equipment from iconic and longrunning Colorado winter events. If you need to catch some shut-eye, it’s best to stay close to your gate. But if you know you’ll be staying overnight, look for less crowded areas to spread out like mezzanines or designated rest and relax areas. “ —Alex Renteria, Denver International Airport Public Information Officer

Highlights, father and child, child and mother with luggage, sketch: Getty Images.

THE AIRPORT REPRESENTATIVE SAYS…

Good to Know | Good Stuff

Must-Have Kids’ Snow Gear Hit the slopes with these winter sport essentials. By Kara Thompson

Suitable for kids age 12 and under, the Christy Sports Jr. Basic Ski Package offers a season rental of skis, boots, and poles. Pick up the bundle by November 14 and use it through mid-April. The lightweight skis are ideal for beginners, but a variety of packages are available to meet any child’s skill level and needs. $139, christysports.com

BackgroundL Anna Efetova /Getty Images.

Keep little hands warm with the Kids’ Burton GORE-TEX Gloves. The waterproof, windproof, and breathable gloves feature two-layer fabric and low-bulk insulation. They also come in four color schemes to please a variety of fashionable skiers. $50, burton.com

Available in sizes 2T to 16, the budget-friendly Mountain Warehouse Kids’ Ski Jacket and Pant Set is perfect for your next snow adventure. Its fleece-lined jacket is treated with a durable water repellent and the pants include side pockets, adjustable braces, and ankle zips. $150, mountainwarehouse.com

The North Face Snowquest Insulated Jacket is ranked highly for being both warm and waterproof. The threepiece jacket has a fixed hood, zip pockets, elastic cuffs, and drop-tail hem to keep kids cozy. Choose from camouflage, leopard, yeti, or animal prints. $99, thenorthface.com

Protect your child’s head and eyes with the Spire Youth Helmet and Goggle Combo. The helmet is ideal for ages three to eight and includes two liners—as kids grow, change the liner size to fit their current measurements and comfort. The removable, antifog goggles offer 100 percent UV protection and are semimirrored, which allows parents and instructors to see the eyes of young skiers. $90, wildhornoutfitters.com

Whether kids are making snow angels or grabbing lunch at the ski lodge, the Spyder Flight Hat will keep their noggins warm when they don’t have a helmet on. The knit hat flaunts a cute heart pattern and faux fur pompom that will make your kids easier to spot. $35, spyder.com

November 2021 | ColoradoParent.com

Family Food

True Food Kitchen

Don’t Cook Thanksgiving Dinner!

Order your turkey day meal to-go or opt to dine in. Either way, you’ll be celebrating with a much-deserved night off. By Kara Thompson

Colorado Parent | November 2021

Family Food

ou just spent all day in the kitchen chopping veggies, making side dishes, and preparing a perfectly golden turkey for your family. The end result? A couple of thank you’s (if you’re lucky) and a kitchen full of dirty dishes. Sure, Thanksgiving is really about spending time with the people you love, but more often than not it consists of stressing out about getting an elaborate meal on the table. If you’re hoping for a more relaxed holiday this year, simplify the prep and clean up by ordering a delicious feast to go. Or, if you’re itching for an outing, consider dining at a local restaurant with your family. Either way, that outsourcing will result in less stress and more laughs with those that you love.

True Food Kitchen

Known for healthy, quality dishes that have an abundance of flavor, True Food Kitchen offers a veggie-forward Thanksgiving menu. The Cherry Creek restaurant recently revamped their catering services and now offers pick-up or delivery, with package options that feed up to 12 people. What to Order: Start light with charred cauliflower, herb hummus, and roasted Brussels sprouts. Then satisfy your seasonal cravings with a fall-inspired salad packed with butternut squash, fresh kale, toasted mulberry, and pomegranate. For the main course, order a spaghetti squash casserole or ancient grain bowl topped with miso sesame glazed sweet potatoes, turmeric, charred onion, snow peas, portobello mushrooms, and avocado hemp seed. The restaurant is also offering chicken and veggie wraps and a variety of sides like sweet potato hash, sweet corn, and quinoa. Finish with a squash pie, the perfect complement to a hearty Thanksgiving meal. Made with a graham cracker crust and topped with coconut whipped cream, the vegan and gluten-free dessert is perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Order by November 24 to pick up on the same day. $160 for packages for 10 to 12 people. truefoodkitchen.com

Opener: True Food Kitchen. Pie: Mondo Market.

Mondo Market

Need a ready-made meal for your family of two, four, six, or eight? Mondo Market, the gourmet market and chef’s counter at Stanley Marketplace, is offering full Thanksgiving meals including classic turkey, sides, and smoked hams. The Mondo team tucks turkey roasting and reheating instructions in each takeout package. What to Order: Each meal comes with a turkey and traditional sides along with optional add-ons like maple glazed sweet potatoes, kale salad, beet salad, baguettes, and pumpkin and pecan pie options for dessert. Order cheese and charcuterie boards from the deli to round out your holiday meal.

Mondo Market If you’d rather indulge early in the day, the eatery is offering a take-and-bake holiday breakfast with menu items including quiche lorraine and croissants. Order by Wednesday, November 10 for pickup on your choice of Tuesday, November 23 or Wednesday, November 24. $58 for two to three people, $125 for four to five people, $180 for six to eight people. mondomarketcolorado.com

Urban Farmer

Enjoy dinner in an upscale, rustic setting at Urban Farmer. A holiday-specific prix fixe menu makes mealtime decision making easy. For $80, each adult gets to choose a first course, entree, and dessert. Kids 12 and under are given the same dining options for $30. What to Order: The robust menu has something for every member of the family to enjoy. Starters include split pea soup, sweet potato gnocchi, and local greens garnished with shaved vegetables, apples, and quinoa with a drizzle of honey vinaigrette. Move on and make room for an entree, with plentiful choices like Colorado-raised turkey, prime rib, salmon, and steak. End the night pleasing your sweet tooth with carrot cake, pumpkin pie, or flourless chocolate cake. Each group that dines in also receives a charcuterie board for the table, in addition to

these side dishes: house-made cranberry sauce, smashed red potatoes, cornbread stuffing, oven roasted yams, and Brussels sprouts. Urban Farmer is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. urbanfarmersteakhouse.com

DINNER FROM THE DELI Local grocery stores and market locations are also serving up prepared Thanksgiving feasts for any size get-together, from just you and the kids to the extended family (and maybe a few neighbors, too). Safeway stores bundled a traditional turkey with sides for six to eight people for $75. Although meal details and prices weren’t available at press time, King Soopers, Sprouts, and Whole Foods will also offer up prepared Thanksgiving dinner options. On the south side of town? Tony’s Meats and Market offers a holiday menu full of heat-and-serve choices. Order just a turkey to feed 10 to 12 (starting at $70), add a side dish bundle with seven of the classics for $150 (feeds 10 to 12), or go a la carte with a list of sides and desserts. Order by noon on November 19, for pick-up on November 23 or 24. tonysmarket.com

November 2021 | ColoradoParent.com

Make Gratitude a Priority How giving thanks for the little things can impact your life.

By Kara Thompson

Opener: Getty Images.

Colorado Parent | November 2021

Gratitude

—it’s such a simple practice yet most of us don’t make it part of our everyday routine. We rush from school drop off to work meetings, continue about our busy days, make meals for our families, then wind down for bed. When our heads hit the pillow, we’re left feeling like it was just a regular old day. Or worse, we move on to thoughts of all we have to do tomorrow. What if we changed our mindsets? What if we saw the magic in the mundane? After all, there’s so much to be grateful for—it shouldn’t take a disheartening health diagnosis, loss of a loved one, or life altering event to feel grateful. How can we go throughout our lives outwardly expressing our gratitude to be here? And perhaps even more importantly, how do we raise grateful kids? Read on to discover the benefits of practicing gratitude and tips for refocusing on what’s most important in life.

How Gratitude Impacts Our Lives

Gratitude has the power to impact our mental health, connections with loved ones, and our overall well being, according to a Harvard Health Publishing article. In a study conducted by psychologists, Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California, Davis, and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami, all participants were asked to write a few sentences each week on certain topics. One group was instructed to write down what they were grateful for each week, another was asked to write about the bad things that happened, and the last group was told to write about anything that occurred throughout the week—either good or bad. After the 10 week experiment, the group that wrote what they were grateful for felt better about themselves and were more optimistic than the other two groups. “Being grateful extends the positive emotions we have through appreciation,” says Jarod Williams, a father of two and therapist at The

Child and Family Therapy Center of Denver. “We could have something great that happens to us but it might not last that long, so looking back and counting our blessings can extend those emotions for a longer amount of time.” Williams adds that gratitude can block negative feelings you might have, even if you’re going through a hardship. “It’s nearly impossible to feel grateful and envious at the same time,” he explains. When we recognize the good around us, it gives us something positive to focus on, and in turn, can impact how we feel throughout the day.

How To Raise Grateful Kids

Talking to your kids about gratitude is the first step in raising them to recognize things to be thankful for. “From my observation as a parent, children tend to do what we do more often than do what we say,” Williams says. Make an effort to talk to your kids about what gratitude means to them and then ask them to list things they feel grateful for. You can also model it by talking to your spouse about daily gratitudes or having family conversations about it at the dinner table. By simply talking about the topic, it can become an emotion that’s instilled in your child’s life. Keep in mind that gratitude is often an outward expression, so if you’re keeping it to yourself, it’s not going to be as helpful as physically showing it. For example, if your kids see you write a thank-you note to someone who sent you a gift or watch you make cookies for neighbors who let you borrow something, it can help them understand how to express their own gratitude. Another benefit to practicing gratitude is that it can help us feel closer to and more open with our kids. “Having those little moments of practicing gratitude with your kids plants seeds in them and creates a connection for them with their peers and their family,” notes Anne Neilson, a mom of four and founder of Anne Neilson Home.

Illustration: Kristina Razumovskaya/Getty Images.

Acknowledge the Highs and Lows

Life doesn’t always run smoothly. We have bad days, get in grouchy moods, and feel stressed or anxious from time to time. It’s as important to acknowledge the presence of negative emotions as it is to talk about gratitude in your family. Neilson says that it’s all about feeling grateful through the highs and the lows. If kids are going through something challenging or difficult, recognize their feelings before rerouting the conversation into a more positive one. Bringing up gratitude in times of trouble will give kids something upbeat to focus on and can redirect their thoughts if they’re unsettled throughout the day. And hey, the same thing applies to you.

Tools for Practicing Gratitude Actively seeking time and methods to fit gratitude practices into your life can feel tricky—especially if you’re a busy parent. Here are some resources to help you prioritize the practice within your home. Writing down what we’re grateful for can help it become more ingrained in our minds. The Little Renegades Gratitude Journal was specifically designed for kids to keep track of three things that bring them joy each day. $22, littlerenegades.com

Anne Neilson’s 100 Days of Gratitude consists of 100 beautifully painted cards kept within an acrylic display case. Each card has an uplifting message of gratitude that you can display each day. Ask your kids to flip the cards each morning and read off the daily quote. $65, anneneilsonhome.com

Give Thanks by Naomi Shulman is filled with 50 easy gratitude prompts for kids like “take a thankfulness walk” and “give a flower to a friend.” It also includes a handful of games and activities, like I Spy Gratitude and the Alphabet Gratitude Game. $13, workman.com

The Gratitude Explorer Workbook by Kristi Nelson is ideal for adults hoping to make grateful living a daily practice. The workbook is filled with guided exercises, journaling cues, and practices for self-reflection. $17, storey.com

November 2021 | ColoradoParent.com

Tree craft: Makayla Shartle.

DIRECTIONS:

Make Your Own Gratitude Tree By Makayla Shartle

Here’s a lovely way to display your gratitude and involve the kids in holiday decorating.

YOU WILL NEED: · Tree branches (about 10) · Vase or container · Scissors · Pencil · Bowl · Clippers (to cut and trim tree branches) · Craft paper (brown, tan, cream, pink) · Felt (dark brown)

Colorado Parent | November 2021

· Seed beads (brown, pink, yellow, blue) · Glue (Craft Bond; something strong to hold beads to craft paper) · Brown marker · String · Leaf and acorn patterns (available at ColoradoParent.com)

1. Collect tree branches and use clippers to cut the branches to the height that will fit in your vase. Arrange the trimmed branches in the vase. 2. Print and cut out leaf and acorn patterns. Trace the patterns with a pencil on craft paper (three to four leaves of each color and six acorns). Cut out each leaf and acorn. 3. To make fuzzy tops for the acorns, cut the nut part of the acorn off of the pattern. Use the top of the acorn pattern to trace with a marker onto the felt and cut it out with scissors. Glue the felt cut outs on the top of the acorns; set aside to dry. 4. Use markers to write something you are grateful for on each leaf. Enlist help from the kids to offer suggestions. 5. Mix all of the beads together in a bowl. Draw lines and swirls of glue onto leaf cutouts and sprinkle beads onto glue. (Tip: Hold the leaves over the bowl of beads as you sprinkle to avoid making a mess. Shake off excess beads.) Lay leaves flat to dry overnight. 6. Cut pieces of string (about five inches long for the leaves and two inches long for the acorns). 7. Use scissors to carefully poke a hole in the base of each leaf and the top of each acorn. Thread one piece of string through each hole and tie a knot in the back. 8. Hang the leaves and acorns on the branches.

COVID-19 CHANGED OUR LIVES. YOU MIGHT BE ... Juggling work from home with remote school for your children. Feeling anxious about the vaccine. Trying to understand your children’s stress reactions. Mourning the loss of someone. Or you may be experiencing something else. WE’VE ALL BEEN AFFECTED.

GET FREE + ANONYMOUS SUPPORT TODAY! Our crisis counselors are here for you. The Colorado Spirit Crisis Counseling Program is a free and anonymous program with trained crisis counselors who are people from the community, just like you. Our counselors can connect you to community resources, help you develop coping strategies to manage and reduce your stress, and teach you how to recognize and support the reactions your children may be having.

To access support resources please visit COLORADOSPIRITCCP.COM

December 10, 11, 12, 18 & 19 Give the gift of safe, stable, nurturing childhoods this holiday season.

Light the way toward brighter childhoods.

Find us on Colorado Gives Day!

Denver Metro's Family Favorite since 1993 With International Guest Stars Chase O'Connell & Beckanne Sisk of Ballet West Gavin Hounslow & Sharon Wehner

Strengthen families at IlluminateColorado.org/LightTheWay

Connecting Youth At Risk For Suicide With Life-Saving Mental Health Treatment

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November 2021 | ColoradoParent.com

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2021 In recent years, Denver has made numerous appearances on lists featuring the best, most exciting places to live in the nation. So it’s no surprise that creative, forwardthinking entrepreneurs and professionals choose to call our city home. Meet some of the brains behind local businesses and leaders in various fields. These game-changers are the Faces of Colorado Parent. P h o to g r a p hy by D R EW CA R L S O N , P E T E E K LU N D, A N D PAU L WE I N R AU C H

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ABA THERAPY BEHAVIORAL INNOVATIONS (720) 642-7019 8 centers in the Denver-Boulder area

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Established in 2000, Behavioral Innovations is the fourth largest clinic-based ABA program in the country. We have served hundreds of families with kids diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Our original core values of being caring, family-focused, collaborative, and accountable continues to drive our passion and is reflected in the work we do. We founded Behavioral Innovations after realizing the immediate need for bringing evidence-based services in a clinic setting. From the beginning we knew that—in order to grow—we had to surround ourselves with folks that knew more than we did. We worked with “experts” in various areas to accomplish our mission and get to where we are today. Autism impacts 1 in 54 children in the US alone. It can be a challenging journey for families, but they don’t have to go through it alone. Early intervention services like ABA therapy are most effective when started early. So don’t wait to get a diagnosis. If you have a child under 10 years of age with autism, see if ABA therapy at Behavioral Innovations is the right fit for you.

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LANGUAGE IMMERSION EDUCATION GLOBAL VILLAGE ACADEMY Global Village Academies are innovative language immersion charter schools in Aurora (K-8), Douglas County (K-5), and Northglenn (K-8). Students are taught through language immersion instruction, learning core content in both English and their choice of Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese or Russian. This model enables our learners to achieve fluency and biliteracy in English and a second language, and earn the GVA Seal of Biliteracy at the end of our program. GVA is truly a Global Village: Our teachers come from all over the world, each bringing their unique culture and language into the classroom. Our students develop a GLOBAL perspective by learning a second language; exploring diverse cultures to cultivate understanding and respect; and by developing the skills to live and work with others internationally—all essential elements for life in the 21st century. With the world as the context for education, students need to find their place, their voice, and their dream. Our VILLAGE provides the support and the challenge to motivate students to excel in school and in life. Their success depends upon their own initiative and the support of peers, teachers, parents, and the wider community. The ACADEMY has always been a symbol of rigorous education, critical thinking abilities, and a love of knowledge. Through structured inquiry, students explore multi-disciplinary units that span each language village. These units integrate core subjects and encourage students to ask questions and make discoveries in their active search for knowledge.

(720) 353-4113 Aurora | Douglas County | Northglenn

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I am excited to bring Direct Primary Care to kids and families in the Denver metro area! I founded Platypus Pediatrics the summer of 2021 and have practiced pediatrics in the south Denver area since 1997. Why Direct Primary Care? DPC is a model of health care that fosters the physicianpatient relationship, emphasizing personalized care without the constraints of health insurance. One of the important benefits of the pediatric DPC model is that it allows you to have direct access to your pediatrician, when and where you need them. How does Direct Primary Care work? A low monthly membership fee covers all the expenses of primary care, including urgent care and procedures. Taking the middleman (insurance) out of the picture allows for lower overhead and more personalized care.

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MONTESSORI EDUCATION Rachel Averch, President MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE OF DENVER Mayfair | Park Hill | Central Park (303) 322-8324 | mchdenver.org

Born into a Montessori family and having dedicated her career to fostering Colorado’s Montessori community, Rachel has from her earliest memories been subject and witness to the power of this uniquely inspiring educational model. In 1991, while working as a Montessori teacher, Rachel embraced her opportunity to found Montessori Children’s House of Denver (MCHD), for which she has been profoundly grateful. Every day, she knows she need only pop her head into a classroom to see countless ‘aha’ moments unfold around her. In the 30 years since, she has guided the growth of MCHD into a community of nearly 300 students, grades Pre-K through 9, and over 60 educators across three Denver campuses. She also co-founded the Colorado Montessori Association to unite educators toward the cause of transforming children’s futures—and was instrumental in the fight to pass House Bill 1276, ensuring the survival of fidelitous Montessori curriculum statewide.

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COLORADO PUBLIC EDUCATORS COLORADO EDUCATION ASSOCIATION (303) 837-1500 1500 Grant Street, Denver, CO 80203

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The Colorado Education Association (CEA) was founded in 1875 by a handful of educators who came together, voted, and formed the first union for public education workers in Colorado. Today, CEA is the voice of 39,000 educators, working together to ensure all students get the exceptional public schools they deserve in every neighborhood across the state. As Colorado’s largest labor union, CEA represents licensed teachers, higher education faculty, retired educators, students working toward becoming educators, education support professionals like paraprofessionals, bus drivers, food service workers, and others all across the state. CEA works collectively with all education stakeholders—parents, students, principals, school boards, elected officials and others—to ensure that our students, educators and schools have the resources they need to learn and thrive. CEA is led by President Amie Baca-Oehlert, a high school counselor from the Adams 12 school district, Vice President Kevin Vick, a high school social studies teacher from Colorado Springs and SecretaryTreasurer Amber Wilson, a high school English teacher from Denver.

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AUTISM TREATMENT SERVICES THE BEHAVIOR EXCHANGE (720) 647-8541 500 Discovery Parkway, Suite 100 Superior, CO 80027

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As an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy provider for over 20 years, we’ve had the privilege of helping children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), behavioral issues, developmental concerns, and other special needs reach their full, wonderful potential. Our fun and caring approach to the proven science of ABA therapy offers both hope and meaningful change for children and their families. Our Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) provide highly-individualized therapy tailored to the specific needs of each child and utilize a unique curriculum you won’t find anywhere else. We offer a wide range of services including One-on-One Therapy to help children form a foundation of basic skills; an early-start program called B.E.E.S. that’s designed for preschoolers; Social Skills Group for school-aged kids, Summer Camp, Parent Training, School Support and Advocacy for parents, and solutions for entire school districts. We’re also an in-network provider with most insurance and proudly advocate for children to ensure they receive all the therapy hours they need. To schedule an initial consultation or take a tour of our happy hive, call The Behavior Exchange today!

Faces of Colorado Parent

colorado kids who are making a

difference Meet five teens taking up leadership roles in the community.

By Anna Sutterer

ard work becomes second nature, an impulse, a way of life, when you do something you love and care deeply about. These teens—through their activism, entrepreneurship, artistic vision, education, and trailblazing—exemplify this.

Colorado Parent | November 2021

sharing the written word

Opener: Heather Smith/Fortuitous Photography. Illustrations: Getty Images. Elizabeth Marr: Jim Marr.

LINDSAY LIST, 14, ENGLEWOOD Bookworm Lindsay List understands the importance of book access and reading practice. When she was in third grade she was diagnosed with a reading disability. That hasn’t stopped her from succeeding in school, and creating her own literacy program. Around her 12th birthday, List decided that her bat mitzvah community service project would be to collect books and distribute them to kids with limited access. She called it Lindsay’s Library. Her vision would require many donations, so she spread the word to her community through emails, posts on social media, and an article in her temple’s newspaper. She made a donation box for the temple, and her tzedakah (charitable giving) went to purchase more. List then delivered the books once a month to the Jewish Family Services (JFS) Weinberg Food Pantry, where parents and kids could read books while waiting, and take them home. More copies went to JFS’s Denver location bookshelves and their mobile food delivery service that targets areas where underserved children live. “Kids were the focus, but I collected books for all ages, including people that had trouble reading English,” List says. “I knew that books were required to develop their reading skills, so it was not a task, but a fun experience.” She would have continued as planned; however COVID-19 disrupted the cycle. Stocking the shelves was no longer an option, and the mobile program wasn’t taking donations. List turned to her mother, who often volunteered with the Cherry Creek School District (CCSD). They found a new distribution strategy for Lindsay’s Library. During the pandemic, List collected over 1,000 books and wiped each one down before donating to CCSD. For her efforts, List won the Prudential Spirit Community Service Award for the State of Colorado in February 2021. Lindsay’s Library is still going strong. Over the summer, List paired with JFS and the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the National Charity League to teach girls about conducting their own community service projects. The participants have helped List gather more than 1,000 books. “I have learned that helping others makes me feel good,” List says. “It doesn’t take much to make a difference because the little things make the biggest impact.” Contact lindsayslibrary@comcast.net for more information.

tender loving crafting ELIZABETH MARR, 16, ERIE Live, from Seacrest Studios, Children’s Hospital Colorado presents: Elizabeth’s Craft Corner, an interactive art show hosted by an amiable teen, Elizabeth Marr. Twice a month on the hospital’s closed-circuit channel, patients tune in to learn how to make crafts like a wall hanging, wind chime, or fleece blanket, while following along with a craft kit. Marr herself was treated at Children’s Hospital Colorado in 2019, after a grease fire burn. “When I was healing from my injury, I did a lot of crafts and coloring, just to get my mind off of it,” she says. Her child life specialist suggested she take her talents to the studio. More than 30 episodes of Elizabeth’s Craft Corner have aired since June 2020, highlighting techniques from clay molding to textile work. Marr plans the airing schedule months in advance, deciding which crafts she’ll guide and what supplies each participant will need so Children’s Colorado staff can assemble and distribute kits. Whether hosting in the studio (on days she has an appointment), or via Zoom, Marr’s easy smile and detailed demonstration creates a peaceful ambiance for viewers.

“When I was in middle school, I kind of wanted to do YouTube, but I’ve always been a shy person,” she says. “My burns forced me to be talkative and communicate with doctors. That helps me kind of come out and be a little more social.” Marr learned to advocate for herself. It can be stressful when adults are talking about treatments you don’t completely understand, she explains. Volunteering has given her a way to make sense of hospital operations and help others get along in their healing. On Craft Corner, Marr has guided kids through activities that address their fears, for example, using syringes (sans-needles) to paint pumpkins; this makes medical supplies seem less scary. As a member of Children’s Colorado’s Youth Advisory Council, Marr also helps plan events like “prom” for kids in long term care, and chats with burn patients about what they can expect in treatment. “Volunteering makes me so happy to give back to the kids and the hospital in general,” Marr says. “I got to do something positive with how tragic my burns were. That really helped me."

November 2021 | ColoradoParent.com

mobilizing youth for climate justice PHOEBE DOMINGUEZ, 13, DENVER

Colorado Parent | November 2021

Child with sign: Phoebe Dominguez. Child with check: Stephen Zhang.

Phoebe Dominguez stood. Outside Denver’s capitol building, she held signs declaring: “There is no planet B,” and “School Strike for Climate.” From January to March 2020, each Friday afternoon around lunchtime, Dominguez, flanked by her mother, protested lack of action on the climate crisis. Her action was inspired by the three-week sit-in Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg led in 2018, which turned into the #FridaysForFuture school strike movement. One passerby told her about 350 Colorado, a grassroots climate action organization, and set Dominguez in motion. She attended educational meetings, then tuned in to the 350 Earth Day Live worldwide conference. Soon, she became one of the younger volunteers for 350 Colorado, joining committees and speaking at events and webinars. Although 350 didn’t have an age minimum for volunteers, Dominguez noticed there wasn’t much youth-focused work. With the help of a fellow teen organizer, she co-founded the 350 Colorado Youth Climate Action Committee earlier this year. To date, the group includes 100 youth ages 10 to 24. Dominguez recognizes it’s hard to know if her lobbying, speeches, and monthly meetings are creating tangible change. But the intensity of climate science and what could happen if not enough people act terrifies her. “When you’re helping something or want to get involved, you may feel obsolete and useless at times. I’ve been there,” she says. “But other people need you there. We need more people, and especially more youth.” The diversity of voices and perspectives in the movement inspires Dominguez. “I know that this is something that I’m not going to give up on, because I know so many people who are already being affected by this; who live in low income communities, Indigenous communities, black and brown communities, and so many more communities that are being disproportionately impacted,” she says. Her advice to anyone thinking about making a difference for the climate: Ask as many questions as you can. Start somewhere; no action is too small, and nobody is doing things perfectly. Find mentors, people that can walk with you.

entrepreneurial spirit with a big heart STEPHEN ZHANG, 17, ENGLEWOOD At a young age, Stephen Zhang is getting used to handing off big checks and mounds of donations. In the past three years, he’s organized fundraising events that have collected more than $80,000 to support various causes in Colorado. Zhang started his company, Youth Creates, in 2018 as a ninth grader. Having noticed kids around him with talent in visual arts, music, and math, Zhang built a website to showcase their achievements and motivate others to pursue their passions. “My teammates are all fabulous teens,” he says of the Youth Creates staff. “They are not only extremely talented, but they are also very kind and generous. Some of them are great initiators and create opportunities to serve.” One major project by Youth Creates is the annual Gala for a Cure fundraising event. In the summer of 2019, Zhang hired youth artists and professional performers to entertain hundreds of viewers. In 2020 and 2021, the event went mainly virtual with online workshops, presentations, and contests, many led by youth. Altogether, the Gala has raised $24,500 for the Cancer League of Colorado. Youth Creates’ board of advisors includes Zhang’s past teachers from elementary and Chinese school, a connection made at a regional Toastmasters conference, and fellow Asian American community leaders; all educators and

business owners who offer guidance. “They are my backbone,” Zhang says. “My biggest advocate and supporter is my mom,” Zhang says. “She takes care of taxes and insurance, she helps remove obstacles whenever possible. She always encourages me to have a big heart and not to dwell on trivial things.” Denver Chinese School, under the leadership of then President Mr. Huiliang Liu, partnered with Youth Creates early in the pandemic to gather personal protective equipment for healthcare and first responder workers. With the help of local Chinese Americans who had connections with manufacturers overseas, they raised money and purchased thousands of N-95 masks, surgical masks, and protective gowns. “The thank-you notes we later received were very touching,” Zhang says. “They remind me how each of us could make a positive impact on our society.” Zhang also hired friends and retired teachers to give online classes in response to education and camp disruptions. The course list included competitive math, AP and honors Spanish, and computer science. Youth Creates gave a discount or free tuition to financially challenged families. The team is now launching a homework help program, through which kids can schedule study time with their favorite Youth Creates tutor, free of charge.

Eagle Scout: Carissa Zigler.

breaking molds and serving community CARISSA SIGLER, 18, HIGHLANDS RANCH The first day the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) welcomed girls to their ranks, February 1, 2019, Carissa Sigler was already living out the organizations’ motto: Be prepared. Sigler’s father became an Eagle Scout at age 14; her brother did the same at 13. It was her turn. “Although I couldn’t beat them in age, I could beat them in overall time,” Sigler, now 18, says. She and 15 other Colorado girls rose through the Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star Scout, and Life Scout ranks in just two years, becoming the first local class of female BSA Eagle Scouts in February 2021. According to Mark Truax of the National Eagle Scout Association, only about eight percent of those who enter the program earn the highest rank. Sigler and a close friend, plus their moms, worked for months planning their own troop; the first registered all-female troop in the Denver Area Council. Organizing this community and platform for the young ladies who joined was one of the biggest tests of Sigler’s leadership, patience, and time management skills. “Many of the girls and parents who joined had never been involved in scouting, so everything was

started from square one and it took a lot of time from my whole family to teach everyone what they needed to know,” Sigler says. The inaugural female Eagle Scout class has collectively completed thousands of volunteer hours and dozens of community projects, including a greenhouse build, emergency medical aid, and a dog obstacle course. Sigler spent 98 hours and launched Project Never Alone, a mental health awareness and training website, for her Eagle-earning venture. In response to rising suicide rates in correlation with pandemic quarantines, Sigler created this resource so people could recognize warning signs and respond appropriately. She partnered with The Happy Crew and the U.S. Air Force’s Arnold Air Society to host a virtual training last fall (now available on YouTube). As a freshman at the Air Force Academy, Sigler has joined the Arnold Air Society Squadron and plans to help with their joint national projects in spreading suicide prevention and awareness. To achieve what she has in BSA, Sigler has relied on her family and community. “The other female Eagles are so supportive of each other,” she says.

“You can’t do it alone. It takes so much peer and adult help. I couldn’t have gotten Eagle without the support of my troop and my family.” Sigler also understands her journey is not over. There’s more to it than earning patches, she explains. “When people hear that you are an Eagle scout, their perspective of you changes, and those standards that pop into their head, you have to be ready to meet and exceed, not just for yourself, but also for the other Eagles before and after you.”

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j y

(Memberships make the best gifts.)

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Denver • Marsico Campus F-JOY-CPhalfpage-7.375x4.75.indd 1

10/14/21 8:28 AM35 November 2021 | ColoradoParent.com

JAY JAY LENO LENO IS IS BACK! BACK! WEEKNIGHTS WEEKNIGHTS AT AT

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Channel Channel 3 3 on on your your TV TV

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MIKE NELSON MIKE NELSON

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Calendar NOVEMBER

Our Picks For Little Ones

MORNING AT THE MUSEUM November 3 See page 38

For Kiddos

TURKEY TUNES WITH BENANNA BAND November 24 See page 42

Opener: Matthew Murphy. Tweens: Jim Mimna.

For Tweens

DRUMS OF THE WORLD November 28 See page 42

NOV. 11-13

The Tony Award-winning musical, CATS, features touching moments amidst feline fun.

For Teens

CATS 7:30pm; Nov. 13, 2pm matinee. Get swept away in a refreshed production of CATS, a musical tale of cat camaraderie and rebirth. All ages. $20 and up. The Lincoln Center, Fort Collins. lctix.com

THE FANTASY SHOW Ongoing See page 44

November 2021 | Colorado Parent

Calendar | November

Calendar

Denver Art Museum Free Day 10am-5pm. Visit the Denver Art

What’s Inside ON STAGE

Museum with free general admission; ticket reservation required. All ages. Denver Art Museum. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

HOLIDAY FUN

Senac Scientists: National Bison Day 10:30-noon (ages 6-9), 1-2pm (ages

10-12). Participants learn through hands-on experiences about the majestic animals that once roamed freely across the prairie. They’ll leave knowing how to answer: Is there a difference between buffalo and bison? Register online. $2. Senac Creek Nature Center, Aurora. auroragov.org

WHERE THE KIDS ARE

42 MOVIE MOMENTS

ONGOING EVENTS

This 100-year-old trolley plus story time and activities await at the Aurora History Museum, Nov. 3.

1 MONDAY HEADS UP! All events were correct as of press time, however, please phone ahead to confirm event details.

VIRTUAL Children’s Yoga:

Gratitude 4:30-5pm. Children

will playfully move their bodies as they learn traditional yoga poses through popular stories and music. Taught by a certified children’s yoga instructor. Ages 5-12. Register online. arapahoelibraries.bibliocommons.com

2 TUESDAY

VIRTUAL Book Queeries: As the Crow Flies 4:30-5:30pm. Explore

Get listed! Items to be considered for the monthly printed calendar must be received at least six weeks before the month of publication. Email event information to calendar@coloradoparent.com. Information cannot be accepted by phone. See our calendar online at ColoradoParent.com

queer representation in teen fiction. Teens across the gender and sexuality spectrum are welcome to attend and engage in fun, respectful dialogue and activities. For this meetup, the group will discuss As the Crow Flies by Melanie Gillman. Allies welcome. Grades 6-12. calendar.boulderlibrary.org

3 WEDNESDAY

Morning at the Museum

10:30am. Spend the morning at the Aurora History Museum and enjoy educational stories, activities, and more. Ages 3-6. Registration requested, but not required. Aurora History Museum. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

4 THURSDAY

Star K Kids Nov. 4 and 18, 9:30-10:30am and 11am-noon. Discover

Colorado Parent | November 2021

Aurora’s nature through puppets, interactive activities, and discovery time on the trail. Age 5 and under. Limited capacity; register online. Morrison Nature Center, Aurora. auroragov.org

Nature Playdate 10-11:30am.

Family Workshop at Plains Conservation Center: Cooking in the 1800s Nov. 6 and 20; 11am, 2pm. Work together to cook a meal on the wood burning stove in the sod village. Learn how to peel, chop, measure, and mix to prepare fresh applesauce, muffins, and butter. Register online. $12 per person. Plains Conservation Center, Aurora. botanicgardens.org

Thornton’s 5th Annual Dia de los Muertos Noon-5pm. Celebrate Day of

Connect with your little ones in the Nature Explore Space at Majestic View Nature Center. Try new activities or simply play in nature with wood cookies, forts, and more. Outdoors only, so dress for the weather. Ages 2-12. Adults must also register and supervision is required. Majestic View Nature Center. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

the Dead with face painting, stilt walkers, Thornton Youth Dancers, local food vendors, an art market, and music. Don’t forget to bring an ancestor picture for the ofrenda. Free admission, vendor prices vary. McAllister Park Center, Thornton. thorntonco.gov

YouthBiz Workshop: Painting Meets Business 5:30-7pm. Young

1-2:30pm. Join a naturalist in using scat, tracks, and other natural clues to solve a “who dunnit” mystery. Ages 6-10. Register online. Morrison Nature Center, Aurora. auroragov.org

artists will create their own autumn-themed art pieces then learn how to market and sell them. Ages 8-18. Register online. $10. Young Americans Center for Financial Education, Denver. yacenter.org

6 SATURDAY

Try Hockey For Free

Nov. 6, 9-10am (coed); Nov. 7, 1-2pm (girls), 3:10-4:10pm (coed). Children ages 4-9 are invited to take to the ice at the South Suburban Sports Complex for USA Hockey’s annual Try Hockey For Free Day. Aspiring players of all ability levels

Naturalist Nature Walks & Talks: Aurora Wildlife Detectives

LEGO Build-Along with Play-Well TEKnologies: Animal Architects 2-3pm. Kids will play, create, and learn with the guidance of an experienced Play-Well instructor. Learn new building techniques and explore engineering principles while crafting leaping dolphins, buzzing beehives, and towering giraffes. Ages 6-11. Register online. Boulder Public Library, Boulder. calendar.boulderlibrary.org

Morning at the Museum: Palace Construction, Inc.

can attend to skate, play, and learn the basics of hockey. South Suburban will supply your player with all necessary hockey equipment. Register online. South Suburban Sports Complex, Highlands Ranch. tryhockeyforfree.com

Calendar | November

HOT TIP Transgender Awareness Week is recognized November 13-19 this year. A new book called CALVIN, by J.R. and Vanessa Ford, walks through the process as Calvin tells his parents, grandparents, and classmates that he is a boy (despite being assigned female at birth). It’s inspired by the authors’ own experience of raising a transgender child. On sale November 9. penguinrandomhouse.com

Lleva Nuestras Voces: Bobby LeFebre and 2MX2 7pm. Celebrating the legacy of the Chicano Movement, the Colorado poet laureate will present a virtual reading of his work, followed by a live, in-person performance by pop/hiphop musical group 2MX2. Find free tickets online. Gordon Gamm Theater, Boulder. thedairy.org

8 MONDAY

Read Island Storytime with Nicole Magistro & Alice Feagan 10am. Sail away to Read Island with special guest and local author, Nicole Magistro, and illustrator, Alice Feagan, during morning storytime. Ages 2-7. Free, books available with RSVP. Second Star to the Right Bookstore, Denver. secondstartotherightbooks.com VIRTUAL Legacy Planning for

New Parents 6-7:30pm. Learn about estate planning while you are expecting a child. Sarah Morris, of Sarah Morris Law, will cover what happens if you do not have a plan and give an explanation of estate taxes, plus how and why to choose

an attorney to prepare your plan. $18. jccdenver.org

11 THURSDAY

VIRTUAL Parent University: Self Regulation and Developmental Expectation of Elementary Aged Children 9:30am.

Psychologist Ali Schroer will present on the connection between parents’ developmental expectations and emotional regulation of children. Attendees will gain hands-on tools to model and support emotional regulation. For parents of grades pre-K-5. Register online. aspenacademy.org

Celebrate and Salute with Sound 6-7pm. Kids of all ages are invited to interact in this Veterans Day concert. See the musicians’ fingers move, touch the instruments, and make your own music-maker. Bounce, sway, and stomp to the festive songs, then indulge in ice cream to round out the evening. Find tickets online. Pay what you can, free-$50. Augustana Lutheran Church, Denver. ci.ovationtix.com

13 SATURDAY

Crochet with Nature Nov. 13, 20, 27; 10am-noon. Got a crafty kid? Have them join a crochet series inspired by nature. Participants will learn and practice the four basic crochet stitches that can be combined to create a multitude of projects inspired by nature through color and

On Stage

texture. Materials will be provided. Ages 8-12. Register online. $15 all three sessions. Senac Creek Nature Center, Aurora. auroragov.org

Magic the Gathering 1:30-3:30pm. Magic players of all abilities, grades 6-12, can duel against friends or find new people to challenge, get deck-building tips, strategies for card play, and more at this teen-led event. Register online. Boulder Public Library, Boulder. calendar.boulderlibrary.org

14 SUNDAY

Passport to Culture: Spoke N Motion 1:30pm, 4pm sensoryfriendly showing. Celebrate music and movement with a diverse population of dancers, with and without disabilities, in a creative art form called Integrated Dance. A sensory-friendly showing is available. Face coverings are recommended regardless of vaccination status. Find tickets online. $5. Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree. lonetreeartscenter.org

young musicians from the Denver Young Artists Orchestra present an afternoon of orchestral music including themes from Jurassic Park and Star Wars, with featured guest artist Claude Sim from the Colorado Symphony. Find tickets online. $18 adult, free students and youth. Newman Center for the Performing Arts, Denver. newmancenter.evenue.net

ParentU: Jordyn Linnell.

VIRTUAL Parenting Strategies: Life Skills for the Pre-K Crowd 4pm. Join for

a quick dip into social-emotional and executive function skills. Learn what those terms mean and why schools focus on them. Early literacy librarians will start with background information and suggest practical activities that help develop selfregulation and more. Bring questions. For parents and caregivers of children ages 0-5. Register online. arapahoelibraries.bibliocommons.com

18 THURSDAY

Star K Kids See Nov. 4.

Through Nov. 21. Thu-Sun, 7:30pm and 2pm showings. Based on the popular board game, this musical brings a live audience in to help solve a murder mystery: Who killed Mr. Boddy, in what room, and with what weapon? Fill out a deduction form to guide the detective to the culprit. Age 13 and up. $29 and up. The Schoolhouse, Parker. parkerarts.org

Pirates of Penzance Nov. 19 and 20, 7pm; Nov. 21, 2pm. Enjoy an abridged version of the classic comedic opera about pirates who take pity on orphans that really want them behind bars and the foiled attempts of policemen along the way. The BackStory’s Youth Theatre company adds a 1980s glam rock twist to the show. Guests can dress up in a pirate costume or 1980s couture. All ages. Find virtual stream and in-person tickets online. $10-$20 virtual and in person. Broomfield Auditorium, Broomfield. onthestage.tickets

The Crucible Through Nov. 7. Thu-

Epic Themes 4pm. Watch as

16 TUESDAY

Maintain family harmony with tips from psychologist Ali Schroer, Nov. 11.

Clue: The Musical

Sat, 7:30pm; Sun, 2pm. Settle in for a dramatic rendition of the classic, The Crucible, set during the Salem witch trials of the 1690s. Age 13 and up. Parental discretion advised. $22-$40. Miners Alley Playhouse, Golden. minersalley.com

The Toymaker’s Doll Coppelia Through Nov 27. Nov. 7, 3pm (D.L. Parsons Theatre, Northglenn); Nov. 27, 6:30pm (The Schoolhouse Theatre, Parker). Laugh along with this comic ballet about a dancing doll, a mischievous girl, and a toymaker who has fallen in love with his own creation. Enjoy a Little Ballerina Tea Party with cast members in costume after matinee performances. All ages. Find tickets online. $26 adult, $23 student and seniors, $20 youth. Locations in Denver, Northglenn, and Parker. balletariel.org

Tenth Anniversary Celebration and November Free Day at the Clyfford Still Museum 10am-5pm. Celebrate the Museum’s anniversary and explore the exhibition A Decade of Discovery: Clyfford Still in Denver during this month’s free day. All ages. Clyfford Still Museum, Denver. clyffordstillmuseum.org

November 2021 | Colorado Parent

Calendar | November

4-5pm. Join the Ute Indian Museum to learn about the many uses of bison in Ute culture through objects and stories; presented by History Colorado. Ages 5-12 and families. Register online. arapahoelibraries.bibliocommons.com

20 SATURDAY

Crochet with Nature See Nov. 13. Family Workshop at Plains Conservation Center: Cooking in the 1800s See Nov. 6. Storytime with Anna Harber Freeman 10am. Join special guest author, Anna Harber Freeman, for storytime as she reads from her book Shaped By Her Hands and directs the audience in some clay play. Ages 2-7. Free, books available with RSVP. Second Star to the Right Bookstore, Denver. secondstartotherightbooks.com

music, and discover home goods, jewelry and accessories, adult and children’s fashion, skincare, ceramics, art, artisanal food, paper goods, pet goods, and more. Free entry, vendor prices vary. Historic South Gaylord St., Denver. fireflyhandmade.com

Schweiger Ranch Open Day 1-5pm. Visit the historic property and explore the ranch with a selfguided tour. Face masks are required inside house. Schweiger Ranch, Lone Tree. schweigerranch.org

DYAO Presents Suite(ly) Dancing Nov. 20, 2:30pm (Pinnacle Charter School); Nov. 21, 2:30pm (Christ Lutheran Church). The Denver Young Artists Orchestra presents a collaboration with the Colorado Conservatory of Dance, who will premiere a ballet inspired by the music of Florence Price. Find tickets online. $20 adult, free students and youth. Denver and Highlands Ranch locations. dyao.org

Family Volunteer Day 10am-noon. Start off the holiday season by serving your community and having fun. Decorate bags used to deliver meals to people with lifethreatening illnesses, collect and put together a sock drive for houseless neighbors, and take part in an acts of kindness scavenger hunt. Then, meander through the History Colorado Center’s exhibits for free. Register online. History Colorado Center. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

Firefly Handmade Holiday Market 11am-5pm. Browse handmade wares from more than 80 local indie artisans. Grab a drink from an outdoor bar, bop to live

Holiday Fun

21 SUNDAY

DYAO Presents Suite(ly) Dancing See Nov. 20.

23 TUESDAY

The holiday spirit takes over Dairy Block Alley this season. A Christmas Carol Nov. 19Dec. 26, select dates; 2pm and 7:30pm showings. Return to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts for this Denver holiday tradition. Take in a joyful, musical adaptation that traces money-hoarding Ebenezer Scrooge’s overnight journey to redemption. Includes period language and ghost scenes that may frighten younger guests. Stage fog, haze, and strobe lighting are used. Age 6 and up. Find tickets online. $30 and up Wolf Theatre, Denver. denvercenter.org

Fall Break Single Day Camps

A Christmas Carol Nov. 26-

Nov. 23-24, 9am-4pm. Kids can explore the wildness of the tree world and learn how even small trees play a vital role for animals and ecosystems. Have your camper dress comfortably with closed toe shoes and pack a sack lunch and snacks. Grades 1-6. Register early. $65.75 per day nonmembers, $60.75 per day members. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs. cmzoo.org

Dec. 23; Wed-Sat, 7:30pm; Sun, 2pm. This fast-paced adaptation uses only five actors to bring Dickens’ characters to life through fun physicality and the power of imagination. Witness Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a stingy miser to a man who generously celebrates the spirit of the season all year long. Ticket package purchase needed to attend (no single tickets); $36-$75 three-pack to $144$300 12-pack. Miners Alley Playhouse, Golden. minersalley.com

Aprés Ski Holiday Market at Dairy Block Nov. 26-

Lend a hand with History Colorado's Family Volunteer Day, Nov. 20.

Aprés Ski Market: Jeff Fierberg. Volunteer: History Colorado Center.

VIRTUAL Kids Explore: Bison and the Ute Culture

Colorado Parent | November 2021

Dec. 19. Fri-Sun, noon-5pm. Inspired by a European ski village, this market features a variety of vendors offering clothing, home goods, and more. Enjoy food and drink specials plus a lineup of holiday entertainment including performances by the Jingle Belles and visits from Santa Claus.

All ages. Dairy Block Alley, Denver. dairyblock.com

Blossoms of Light Nov. 19-Jan. 8, 4:30-9pm; Closed Nov. 25 and Dec. 25. Stroll through a twinkling wonderland full of festive lights. Don’t neglect the warm drinks and holiday treats from Hive Garden Bistro in the center of the gardens. Purchase timed tickets in advance online. $18-21, $16-19 members; free age 2 and under. Denver Botanic Gardens York Street. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

Camp Christmas Nov. 18-Jan. 2. Select dates and times, Immerse yourself in a massive holiday experience featuring Santa’s Glampsite, hot cocoa, and a free audio tour. Dress warm for the outdoor event. All ages. Find timed-entry tickets online. $8–$25. Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park, Lakewood. denvercenter.org

Castle Rock Starlighting Nov. 20, 2-6pm. Gather for yet another lighting of the star, a community event dating back to 1936. Join in the festivities including hot chocolate/ adult beverages, food trucks, nonprofit booths, strolling entertainers, and music. Shop local to support the community. If you are unable to attend, consider hosting a virtual viewing party with your family via livestream. Historic Wilcox Square, Castle Rock. castlerock.org

Catch the Glow Festival of Lights Nov. 26, 5:30pm. The Town of Estes Park’s parade kicks off

A Christmas Carol: AdamsVisCom.

Calendar | November

the holiday season with a procession of sparkling, lighted floats, live music, elves, and other beloved characters. Enjoy classic, quaint, mountain town fun culminating in the arrival of Santa Claus himself, all under the backdrop of the high Rocky Mountains. Downtown Estes Park. estesparkeventscomplex.com

Family Holiday Clay Nov. 4, 9, 16,

Cherry Creek Holiday Market Nov. 18-Dec. 24. Sun-Wed,

4-5:30pm. Honor members of the community who have enlightened others. Feel the warmth and watch as pinecones are tossed into the courtyard fire, sending good thoughts and prayers into the night sky. Sing along to Christmas carols, enjoy Mexican hot chocolate, hot cider, and traditional biscochitos. Dress warm. Register online. The Fort Restaurant, Morrison. tesoroculturalcenter.org

11am-7pm; Thu-Sat, 11am-9pm; special hours Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. Find your winter treat and/or holiday gifts at this outdoor market featuring 30 pop-ups from local makers, designers, and creators. Register online. Cherry Creek Shopping Center, Fillmore Street, Denver. cherrycreekholidaymarket.com

Christmas in Killarney Nov. 27, 2pm and 7:30pm showings. Set in Killarney, Ireland in the late 1920s, this show demonstrates what it means to celebrate Christmas the “Irish” way, complete with song and dance. All ages. Find tickets online. $49 and up. The PACE Center, Parker. parkerarts.org

Colorado Ballet Presents The Nutcracker Nov. 27-Dec. 24; most ThuSun; 1pm, 6:30pm, and 7:30pm showings. The beloved holiday favorite returns in a production featuring new sets and costumes created especially for Colorado Ballet. Age 5 and up. Find tickets online. $40 and up. Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver. coloradoballet.org

Denver Christkindl Market Nov. 19-Dec. 23. Thu-Sat, 11am-9pm; Sun-Wed, 11am-7pm; special hours on Thanksgiving and close to Christmas. Sip warm spiced wine or hot chocolate, shop artisan gifts, and savor holiday treats. View complete health and safety measures online. Civic Center Park, Denver. christkindlmarketdenver.com

Elf: The Musical Nov. 16-18 preview; Nov. 19-Dec. 23. Tue-Sat, 7:30pm; Wed, 1pm; Sat and Sun, 2pm. Sensory-friendly performance Nov. 26, 1pm. Laugh along as Buddy the Elf finds his true identity while helping New York City rediscover its Christmas cheer. Age 6 and up. $53 and up, $20 sensory-friendly. Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities, Arvada. arvadacenter.org

18, and 30; 4-5:30pm. Make decorations and gifts with the family. All supplies included. Age 5 and up. Registration required. $18, $24 non-district. Ridge Recreation Center, Littleton. ifoothills.org

Farolito Lighting & Pinecone Ceremony Nov. 28,

Hip Hop Nutcracker Nov. 19, 7pm; Nov. 20, 2pm. This is a holiday mash-up for the whole family. A cast of a dozen dancers, a DJ, and a violinist perform a contemporary dance spectacle set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. Just like the original, Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince go on a dream adventure battling a gang of mice, visiting the land of sweets and learning the lessons of the holiday season. Age 4 and up. $25-$80. Buell Theatre at Denver Performing Arts Complex, Denver. denvercenter.org

Hometown Holidays Nov. 26-Dec. 19. Join Parker’s mayor at the Town Tree on November 26 to kick off the holiday season with a lighting and sing-along. Stroll the park and gaze at the ice sculpture displays, then interact with holiday characters who have stories to tell. Enjoy tasty food from holiday food vendors. The North Pole Experience Pass is available Thanksgiving weekend and provides kids ages 2-10 with activities and a visit with Santa. Downtown Parker, Parker. parkeronline.org

Mile High Tree Nov. 19Jan. 1. Step inside the massive and magnificent Mile High Tree immersive art installation to experience a light show set to music. 16th Street Mall, Denver. denver.org

A Christmas Carol at the DCPA is a classic Denver holiday treat. Nutcracker Highlights

Trail of Lights Nov. 26-

Nov. 20, 3pm and 7pm showings. The International Youth Ballet will perform a one-hour family-friendly version of the classic holiday show, which immerses audiences in the imaginative dreams of Clara, as she journeys with her prince to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy. Find tickets online. $8 in advance; $11 day-of, if not sold out. Southridge Recreation Center, Highlands Ranch. hrcaonline.org

Jan. 2, Fri-Sun. Nightly, Dec. 17-Jan. 2, 5-8:30 p.m. Wind a mile through the illuminated countryside at Chatfield Farms (shorter route available) and find a children’s play area, singing Christmas trees, light tunnels, and antique farm equipment on display. Treat yourself with hot beverages, plus nuts and kettle corn. $10-15. Chatfield Farms, See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

Sensory Friendly: A FACE Christmas Nov. 28, 4pm. Ring in

Winter Around the World

the holidays with all-vocal rock band, Face. Using only their voices, they meld popular tunes, complex harmonies, and beat-box rhythms. This special sensoryfriendly performance will be modified to ensure there are no startling noises or visually over-stimulating components. Find tickets online. $20. Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree. lonetreeartscenter.org

Nov. 20, 2pm. Denver Concert Band, a community group of 90 volunteer musicians, presents a show with both classical pieces and holiday celebration. Mr. and Mrs. Clause are expected to grace the stage as well. $5. Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree. lonetreeartscenter.org

Winter Wanderland Light Walk Nov. 18-Dec. 31.

Swing Into Christmas with the Beverly Belles Nov. 28, 2pm and 6pm showings. The Beverly Belles, inspired by the Andrews Sisters, dazzle with perfect vocal harmony, bringing a show full of 1940s music and top holiday tunes. The Honey Taps vintage dance group and comic Heath Hyche round out this variety show event. All ages. Find tickets online. $24 and up. The PACE Center, Parker. parkerarts.org

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Nov. 19-Jan. 1. 5:15pm, 6:50pm, and 8:25pm on select dates. Set to the sounds of the movie soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the story. Get your golden tickets punched before hot chocolate and a cookie are served by dancing chefs. Read along with the children's book, The Polar Express, and greet Santa and his helpers. $39-$89 adult, $29-$79 youth. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Durango. durangotrain.com

Take a magical stroll through the Cherry Creek Shopping area and enjoy tree lights dancing to music and an interactive sound and color art installation. Swing by the holiday market to peruse wares from 30 local vendors. Snag free festive treats on Saturday evenings in December. Cherry Creek North, Denver. cherrycreeknorth.com

Winter Wonderlights Nov. 13-Jan 2. Nightly, 5-9pm; Nov. 13 and 20, Dec. 4 and 11 (Winter Wonderlights LIVE events). Wander through a park full of illuminated art set to the tune of six songs. You can’t miss the 20 foot tall LED Christmas tree, or large inflatable igloo. Local vendors will be onsite and special programming will take place during select weekends. Chapungu Sculpture Park at Centerra, Loveland. visitlovelandco.org

November 2021 | Colorado Parent

Calendar | November

The following locations are referred to frequently in the calendar. Discounted annual passes are available at many venues. Note: Check websites for the latest health and safety information. Reserved Tickets Required Timed entry

Aurora History Museum Tue-Fri, 9am-4pm (closed noon-1pm); Sat and Sun, 11am-4pm. 15051 E. Alameda Pkwy., Aurora. 303-739-6660. auroragov.org/things_to_do/aurora_ history_museum Butterfly Pavilion Daily, 9am-5pm. $13 adult, $9 ages 2-12, free under age 2 and members. 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster. 303-469-5441. butterflies.org Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus Wed-Sun, 9am-4pm. Staggered entry every half-hour until 2:30pm. $15 ages 2-59, $13 ages 1 and 60+, $1 Explorer Pass, free under age 1 and members. 2121 Children's Museum Dr., Denver. 303-433-7444. mychildsmuseum.org Denver Art Museum Daily, 10am-5pm. $10-$13 adult, free age 18 and under. 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver. 720-913-0130. denverartmuseum.org Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms Daily, 9am-4pm. $10 adults, $7 ages 3-12, free age 2 and under and members. 8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton. 720-865-3500. botanicgardens.org Denver Botanic Gardens York Street Daily, 9am-4pm. $15 adult, $11 ages 3-15 and student, free age 2 and under.1007 York St., Denver. 720-865-3500. botanicgardens.org Denver Firefighters Museum Tue-Sat, 10am-4pm. $9 adult, $8 students, $7 ages 3-12, free age 2 and under and members. 1326 Tremont Pl., Denver. 303-892-1436. denverfirefightersmuseum.org Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys Fri-Sat, 10am-4:30pm; Sun, 1-4pm. $5 adult, $4 ages 4-16, free age 3 and under and member. 830 Kipling St., Lakewood. 303-322-1053. dmmdt.org Denver Museum of Nature & Science Daily, 9am-5pm, open until 9 pm on Fridays. $18.95-$19.95 adult, $13.95-$14.95 ages 3-18, free age 2 and under and members. 2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver. 303-370-6000. dmns.org Denver Zoo Daily. 8:30am open for members, 10am open to the public, closing hours vary by day. $20 adult, $14 child ages 3-11, free age 2 and under and members. 2300 Steele St., Denver. 720-337-1400. denverzoo.org Downtown Aquarium Mon-Thu, 10am-9pm; Fri, 10am-1pm; Sat, 9am-10pm; Sun, 9am-8pm. $23.50 ages 12-64, $17.50 ages 3-11, free age 2 and under. 700 Water St., Denver. 303-561-4450. downtownaquarium.com

Turkey Tunes: BenAnna Band.

Where the Kids Are

Colorado Parent | November 2021

Four Mile Historic Park Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm. $5 adult, $3 ages 7-17, free age 6 and under and members. 715 S. Forest St. Denver. 720-865-0800. fourmilepark.org History Colorado Center Daily, 10am-5pm. $14 adult, $10 ages 16-22 with student ID, $8 ages 5-15, free age 4 and under and members. 1200 Broadway, Denver. 303-447-8679. historycolorado.org/historycolorado-center Littleton Museum Tues-Sat, 9am-5pm. 6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton. 303-795-3950. littletongov.org/museum

Sing with Ben and Anna in celebration of Turkey Day, Nov. 24.

Longmont Museum Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm. Thu, 9am-9pm; Sun, 1-5pm. $8 adults, free age 3 and under and members. 400 Quail Rd., Longmont. 303-651-8374. longmontcolorado.gov/departments/ departments-e-m/museum

24 WEDNESDAY

Lookout Mountain Preserve and Nature Center Fri, noon-4pm; Sat and Sun, 11am-4pm. 910 Colorow Road Golden. 720-497-7600. jeffco.us/1281/Lookout-Mountain-Preserve-andNature-Cen

and Anna sing silly songs about turkeys. Ages 5-12. Register online. arapahoelibraries.bibliocommons.com

Majestic View Nature Center Tue-Sat, 10am-3pm. 7030 Garrison St., Arvada. 720-898-7405. majesticviewnaturecenter.arvada.org Museum of Boulder Sun and Mon, Thu-Sat, 9am-5pm; Wed, 9am-8pm. $10 adult, $8 youth, free children under 5 and members. 2205 Broadway, Boulder. 303-449-3464. museumofboulder.org Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Grounds and archery range open daily sunrise-sunset. 6550 Gateway Rd., Commerce City. 303-289-0930. fws.gov/refuge/rocky_mountain_arsenal University of Colorado Museum of Natural History Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm; Sat, 9am–4pm; Sun, 10am–4pm. $3 adult, $1 ages 6-18 suggested donation. 1030 Broadway, Boulder. 303-492-6892. colorado.edu/cumuseum Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun, noon-5pm. $16.95 ages 17-64, $9.95 ages 4-16, free age 3 and under and members. 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver. 303-360-5360. wingsmuseum.org WOW! Children’s Museum Tue-Sat, 9am-4:30pm (closed noon-1pm). $5 adult, $10 child (age 1-11), free under age 1 and members. 110 N. Harrison Ave., Lafayette. 303-604-2424. wowchildrensmuseum.org

Fall Break Single Day Camps See Nov. 22. VIRTUAL Turkey Tunes with BenAnna Band 10-10:40am. Musical duo Ben

26 FRIDAY

Marine Biologist for a Day Nov. 26, grades 5-8; Nov. 27, grades 1-4; 9am-2pm. See if you have what it takes to be a marine biologist. Help prepare food, feed the creatures in some exhibits, and learn how biologists take care of the animals. $65. Registration is required 2 weeks in advance. Downtown Aquarium. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

Zoologist for a Day Nov. 26, grades 9-12; Nov. 27, grades 5-8; 9am-2pm. Learn how to handle and train creatures that live outside of the ocean. Help prepare food, participate in positive reinforcement training, and learn how animals are cared for at the aquarium. $65. Registration is required 2 weeks in advance. Downtown Aquarium. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

27 SATURDAY

Marine Biologist for a Day See Nov. 26. Zoologist for a Day See Nov. 26. Crochet with Nature See Nov. 13.

28 SUNDAY

Drums of the World 2:30pm. Percussionists of the Colorado Symphony present this show of skilled noise making on marimba, bass drums, metal trash cans, darabukkas, Burma gongs, tambourines, and more. All ages. $27 adult, $10 youth. Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver. tickets.coloradosymphony.org

Calendar | November

Ongoing Events NATURE PROGRAMS AND CLASSES

Butterfly Pavilion’s Monarch Magic Nov. 1-30. Walk among up to 300 Monarch butterflies and experience the hope and resilience the majestic insects inspire. Tickets include a Monarch stuffed animal. Age 5 and up. $13 adult, $9 youth ages 2-12; $48 fourpack, $32 two-pack. Butterfly Pavilion. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

Drop-in Discoveries Third Tue, 10-11am. Experience nature’s surprises with hands-on programming featuring a range of nature topics. All ages. Majestic View Nature Center. See Where the Kids Are, page 42. CLASSES, CLUBS, AND PROGRAMS

Discovery Days Wed-Fri; 9-10:15am, 10:30-11:45am, 12:301:45pm. Learn together through monthly hands-on activities that build language development, fine motor skills, emotional regulation, and social abilities. Scholarships are available. Ages 2-6 and caregivers. $4.50 per child, $4 member child. Longmont Museum, Longmont. longmontcolorado.gov

Healthy Food for Denver’s Kids Most weekdays, 2-4pm; see online for schedule. Pick up free, healthy snacks for all the youth in your family. Youth do not have to be present. Athmar Park Branch Library, Denver. denverlibrary.org

Kids Art Nite Nov. 5 and 20 (grades 1-5), 6-8pm; Nov. 13 and 27 (grades pre-K-K), 4-6pm. Leave your kiddos at the studio for an art experience while you enjoy a relaxing evening out. Reservation required. $35. artSPARK Creative Studio, Littleton. artsparkcreative.com

Open Studio Second and fourth Sat, first and third Sun; 10-11:30am. Experiment, play, tinker, invent, and create with or without the kids at artSPARK studio. All ages. Reservation required. $18. artSPARK Creative Studio, Littleton. artsparkcreative.com

Youth On Record Open Lab Ongoing. Fri, 3:30-5:30pm; Sat, 11:30am-2:30pm. Interested in creating music, learning about the business/ marketing side, hearing from guest speakers, and being part of a community of like-minded individuals? Participate in music seminars and workshops for youth, led by local professionals. Ages 14-20. Register online. Youth on Record, Denver. youthonrecord.org

Discovery Days: Longmont Museum.

Birdly Virtual Reality Experience Ongoing. Fri, 9am-9pm. Hop on the Birdly simulation flyer with head-mounted VR display to get a pterodactyl’s-eye view of a prehistoric landscape. Riders will experience multisensory elements such as headwind simulation, 3D audio, and visual impact. Guests must have a 48-inch wingspan to fly, face coverings must be worn, and guests using wheelchairs must transfer to ride. Denver Museum of Nature and Science. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

Five Points Plus: Neighborhood Memory Project Through Nov. 1. Take in the collective memory of an important Denver neighborhood: Five

Points. Enjoy a mural by artist Adri Norris, artifacts from Five Points eras, a sound installation featuring community storytellers, photos, and a soundtrack by KUVO radio. Included with admission. History Colorado Center. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

GUITAR: The Instrument That Rocked the World Nov. 18April 17. Daily, 9am-5pm, open until 9pm Fri. Explore the science, sound, history, and pop culture behind one of the world’s most popular instruments. This exhibition features more than 70 instruments, plus hands-on experiences (get the chance to strum the world’s largest playable guitar). All ages. Included with admission. Denver Museum of Nature and Science. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

Wee Wednesdays Wed, 9am. Take part in a six-week fire safety series. The play dates teach fire safety concepts: My friend the Firefighter, Crawl Low Under Smoke, Get Low and Go, Stop! Drop! and Roll!, Safe For Play! Keep Away!, and Meet a Real Firefighter. Reservations are required. Ages 3-5. $7 per child, per session. Denver Firefighters Museum. See Where the Kids Are, page 42. MUSEUM MEANDERINGS

B.E.A.T. | Boulder Experiments in Art and Technology Through Jan. 30. Sun-Mon, Thu-Sat, 9am-5pm; Wed, 9am-8pm. A gathering of artists, biologists, and technologists collaborated to create this exhibit showing the benefits and negative impacts of technology. Visitors will collaborate with each other and connect with person-made and

Music for Sanity’s Sake Ongoing. Fri, 3:30-5:30pm. Connect with other creatives in a safe space where you can talk about music that helps you make sense of the world, try out free tools to build your artistry, and practice stress management. Join Youth On Record’s Bianca Mikahn in this workshop for youth ages 14-20. Register online. Youth on Record, Denver. youthonrecord.org

natural tools. Included with admission. Museum of Boulder. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

Movie Moments

Dome Show: One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure Through

Nov. 14. Sat and Sun, 10:30-11am. Join Big Bird, Elmo, and their friend, Hu Hu Zhu, for a look at the stars. Take an imaginary trip to the moon and learn how to find the Big Dipper and North Star. Run time is 23 minutes. Find tickets online. $2-$4. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, Fort Collins. fcmod.org

Great Bear Rainforest Through Feb. 23. Daily showings between 9am and 5pm. Enjoy a great IMAX production that takes viewers on a journey to a land of grizzlies, coastal wolves, sea otters, and the all-white spirit bear (the rarest bear on Earth). The Great Bear Rainforest is a place protected by the region’s indigenous people for millennia. Admission plus IMAX ticket: $27 adult, $21 youth, free under age 3 Denver Museum of Nature and Science. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

Sea Lions: Life by a Whisker

Grow your little one’s art skills and development with Discovery Days at Longmont Museum.

Through Feb. 23. Daily showings between 9am and 5pm. Immerse yourself in an IMAX coming-of-age tale guided by one of Australia’s Sea Lion. Join Otto, who shows his life of great intimacy, clumsiness, and bravery. Also, meet the people who are trying to

save her species. Admission plus IMAX ticket: $27 adult, $21 youth, free under age 3. Denver Museum of Nature and Science. See Where the Kids Are, page 42.

The Greatest Showman Movie with Sing-Along Nov. 12, 7:30pm. Sing along with songs from “The Greatest Showman.” Parker Arts’ professional singer Laura Nell Borden will help audience members find their best Greatest Showman voices. Snack packs with popcorn, cotton candy, and drink are available. All ages. Find tickets online. $12 ticket, $5 snack pack add-on. PACE Center, Parker. parkerarts.org

To Which We Belong Nov. 11, 7:15-9pm. Watch local filmmaker Pamela Tanner Boll’s documentary about a new generation of farmers seeking to rebuild their businesses and the planet by diverging from industrialized agriculture methods. Q&A to follow. Find tickets online. $10, $5 museum members. Longmont Museum, Longmont. longmontcolorado.gov

Family Flix: Raya and the Last Dragon Nov. 6, 10am-noon. Stay in your PJs, load up on cereal, and join friends for a family movie for all ages. Register online. Koelbel Public Library, Centennial. arapahoelibraries.bibliocommons.com

November 2021 | Colorado Parent

Calendar | November

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Colorado Parent November 2021

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