Colorado Parent April 2024

Sensory Friendly Spots in Denver

Just a Click Away, Child Predators

Raising MoneySmart Kids

LOOKING

AFTER YOUR

CHILD’S SKIN

Discover which products are safe for kids and teens, and which ones they should steer clear of.

ESTATE SERIES: FOR COLLEGEBOUND ADULTS

The most common questions for parents and young adults.

CRAFT CORNER:

CELEBRATE

EARTH DAY

Celebrate Earth Day with these easy-tomake crafts!

OSCARS-INSPIRED BABY NAMES

Music, movies, and television have certainly influenced what’s popular when it comes to baby names. Check out the names we think will rise on the most popular lists once the Oscar awards are handed out!

PUBLISHER

AMY L. FOREMAN

EDITORIAL

AMANDA MILLER

Managing Editor

AUSTRIA COHN

VICTORIA MIKOTA

MADISON VOORHIES

Associate Editors

ART/ PRODUCTION

ALEX HERRING

Senior Graphic Designer

MADISON GRAHAM

Graphic Designer

ADVERTISING/ MARKETING

CRYSTAL BARRETT

MARTINE MELANCON

RYN WHITESIDE

Senior Account Executives

CAMILLE CAVIN

JADE GRAY JENNIFER HOFFMANN

LAUREN LAUGHLIN

SHANNON VICARI Account Executives

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

TERI HODGES Director of

Community Partnerships

ROXANE VOORHIES

Community Outreach

ADMINISTRATION

BRANDON FOREMAN

Chief Executive Officer

LAURIE ACOSTA

Director of Operations

ALEXIS ALEXANDER

Senior Executive Administrator

SARAH MILLER

Client Relations Coordinator

BRITTANY DUPLESSIS

Accounting Coordinator

Photo by Freepik.com

Ready to Turn the Tables and Prank the Kids?

BY AUSTRIA COHN

Laughter is the best medicine, so let’s prank the youngsters! Here are some funny and harmless pranks to pull on your little ones to ensure a giggle-filled morning. Or, team up with the kiddos and prank your partner!

The Frozen Bowl

Cereal in the morning is a perfect breakfast…but frozen cereal is perfectly devious for April 1st.

Step 1: Pour a bowl of milk and cereal the night before April 1st.

Step 2: Stick it in the freezer.

Step 3: In the morning, add a splash of milk to the frozen concoction.

Step 4: Patiently wait for them to put their spoon into the frozen bowl of cereal.

Box of Surprises

This one will have the kids laughing all day long!

Step 1: Empty their favorite cereal into a separate container for safekeeping.

Step 2: Fill the empty cereal box with their favorite toys (Legos, cars, crayons, etc.)

Step 3: Brace yourself as they dump a box full of toys into their bowl.

Jell-O Drinks

Surprise them with wobbly sips of fun!

Step 1: Get the color of Jell-O that matches their favorite type of drink.

Step 2: Whip up the Jell-O.

Step 3: Day of the prank, put a straw in and wait for them to be surprised.

Bubble Wrap

Dust off that forgotten basement bubble wrap for a prank that pops!

Step 1: Locate the bubble wrap.

Step 2: Sneak it under bathmats, rugs, door mats, or seat covers.

Step 3: Carry on with your morning, and get ready for the unexpected bubble wrap symphony.

Friendly Reminder: April Fools Day is on April 1st, so if you get a suspicious call from your teenager (i.e., “I got pulled over” *giggles heard in the background* or a “call” from the principal of their school who oddly sounds like their best friend) be prepared.

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Local Neurodiverse Affirming and Trauma-Informed Care

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Solutions What is Going on With Recycling?

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Things We Love Tree Hugger Essentials

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RoundUp Sensory Friendly Places good to know features

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Females are Better at Masking Autism Symptoms

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Just a Click Away From a Child Predator

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Money Lessons Every Child Should Learn

Service Dog Etiquette Guide

BY AUSTRIA COHN

Service dogs are becoming more and more popular, so the entire family needs to know how to act around these animals. People have service dogs for several different reasons, like they are visually impaired, in a wheelchair, or have epilepsy. Similar to a random person on the street asking about your private health information, it’s rude to ask an individual with a service animal why they need or have one.

In Colorado, “Service animals are not required to be listed on a registry, possess paperwork declaring the animal as a service animal, or wear a service animal vest,” explains the City and County of Denver.

So, refrain from your questions, and remember, never judge a book by its cover.

Do Not Touch

These are working animals – not pets. Service dogs play a vital part in the owner’s well-being, and like all dogs, these pups love pats and scratches. These diligent canines are working hard, often doing things you might not even notice. Yet, going up to and touching these animals without permission can distract the dog.

Keep Your Dog Away

Imagine working on an important project, and your friend shows up and distracts you. This is similar to bringing your non-service dog near a working dog. Keep your pets at a distance, and always check with the owner first.

Never Feed Them

Generally, it’s a no-brainer not to feed someone else’s dog. But when it comes to service animals, it’s crucial. Oftentimes, these animals are on a tight feeding schedule and a strict diet. So, resist the urge to share your snacks – it’s for their own good.

Seeing a Loose Service Dog

If you’re walking and see a marked service dog without their owner, this probably means the owner needs help. If a service dog nudges or barks without its human, don’t just brush it off or shoo the dog away. Follow them, identify the situation, and, if necessary, call 911.

Overall, use common sense when you see a service dog and ensure the little ones in the family know the rules, too.

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Our Picks for April

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To Do Today happenings fresh mindset

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Meet Shannon Cox

Affirming and TraumaInformed Care

BY AUSTRIA COHN

Historically, neurodiversity and mental health have rarely been used in the same sentence. The question begs, can a neurodivergent individual (someone diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, etc.) also be diagnosed with a mental health disorder (i.e., depression or anxiety)? Even though these medical diagnoses have been discussed separately, neurodivergent children and adults can struggle with their mental health and have two diagnoses.

In fact, “Adolescents diagnosed with autism and/or ADHD are at heightened risk for anxiety and depression,” states the National Library of Medicine.

Being a neurodivergent individual can come with its challenges, from social isolation and bullying to being misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Moreover, people who are neurodivergent can have increased stress and frustration when it comes to specific skills that are hindering their ability to plan, organize, and complete tasks.

A local practice that is bringing awareness to neurodivergent individuals with multiple diagnoses is All Minds Counseling, LLC. The owner, Emily Schleich, LMFT, is passionate about the intersection of neurodiversity and mental health.

“Since opening my practice, I have come to learn that not many parents recognize that mental health services are even available for their child, family, or parenting relationship when autism is present,” Schleich shares. “This is something I hope can change in our community.”

The All Minds Counseling team in Denver recognizes individuals’ unique struggles when navigating multiple diagnoses. Her team is here to help and raise awareness among Colorado families.

Understanding Multiple Diagnoses

In the medical field, the coexistence of two or more diagnoses is called comorbidity. For neurodivergent individuals, this can mean having a diagnosis of Autism, OCD, Sensory

Processing Disorder, ADHD, etc., and also being diagnosed with a mental illness.

At All Minds Counseling, the clinicians understand that having multiple diagnoses can be overwhelming, frustrating, and intimidating for neurodivergent individuals and their families. The practice offers individual, couple, and family sessions.

The Unique Approach

A common therapy approach for neurodivergent individuals is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). This method typically revolves around reinforcing specific behaviors with the hope that they will continue to repeat them. While this approach works for some, it doesn’t work for every neurodivergent child and adult.

However, All Minds Counseling takes a unique approach that puts the agency in the hands of the client. Rather than the practitioner deciding which behaviors are appropriate, the client can choose what aspects they would like to change and what elements they want to remain the same.

In addition to the client having autonomy, the practice focuses on two care tactics that are different from ABA: neurodiverse affirming and trauma-informed care.

Neurodiverse Affirming

At All Minds Counseling, the practice understands neurodiversity and uses evidence-based practices, behavioral services, and parenting support to help families gain control over their lives.

“Neurodiverse affirming recognizes the individual in front of us. We honor the neurodiversity and their strengths with that,” Schleich explains. “We don’t require anything different from them if they feel comfortable one way.”

For example, in traditional ABA Therapy, eye contact is often required and is seen as a necessary behavior. At a neurodiverse affirming practice, the client isn’t required to do a specific behavior if it makes them uncomfortable.

Trauma-Informed

Another essential approach All Minds Therapy takes is being a traumainformed practice.

“Unfortunately, people who are neurodiverse have a higher statistic of having trauma because of their differences,” Schleich says.

A study conducted in 2020 found that over 40 percent (of the autistic adults who participated in the survey) displayed signs of probable post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), while over 60 percent reported experiencing probable PTSD at some point in their lives.

Trauma can be caused for several different reasons, like hospitalization, seclusion, and being misunderstood and mistreated. Research suggests that children on the spectrum are three times as likely to be targets of bullying as their neurotypical peers. Recognizing the higher prevalence of trauma among neurodivergent individuals, All Minds Counseling is prepared to help neurodivergent children and adults who have trauma.

All of our clinicians have a background in trauma and view things through that lens when understanding many of these children and adults who have experienced some form of trauma, explains Schleich. Which, in turn, affects how these individuals present themselves.

Getting Help

Schleich encourages neurodivergent individuals seeking help to go to a specialist who understands neurodiversity. These specialists understand the problems a neurodivergent individual might encounter and can provide some language and information to help families.

If your child or partner is neurodivergent and struggling with their mental health, there are clinicians who can help. Both ABA Therapy and the neurodivergent affirming and trauma-informed approach have success stories. If you’re looking for a therapy option to help your child or partner, either of these approaches is a good place to start.

What’s Going on With Recycling?

BY AUSTRIA COHN

With Earth Day right around the corner, it’s essential to discuss what’s going on in our environment. When daily life requires single-use plastic bags, styrofoam take-home containers, film popcorn buckets, and other items that are hurting the natural world, Earth Day is a time to reevaluate our habits.

Sometimes, the discussion around global warming, plastic in the ocean, and recyclables in the landfill can feel doomsdayworthy. As a society, we do have to adjust some of our practices in order to combat climate change. Rather than sitting awake at night worrying about climate change, take a realistic (and sustainable) step to help the natural world by minimizing your plastic use and properly recycling.

The Recycle Problem

We’ve all probably heard the rumors that a small percentage of items that are put in the blue bin are actually recycled. Unfortunately, this rumor is true.

According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, only 9 percent of plastic waste is recycled. The report found that in the U.S., 73 percent went in the landfill, 19 percent was incinerated, 4 percent was mismanaged, and only 4 percent was actually recycled.

These poor statistics exist for several reasons, including it’s expensive to recycle, certain plastics cannot be recycled, and consumers are disposing of their recyclables improperly.

One of the three reasons plastic waste is not being recycled is in the consumer’s control—recycling goods properly. There are three basic rules when it comes to recycling that every consumer should follow.

Know the Recyclable Items

If you recycle in your home, you’re not helping the environment if you’re putting nonrecyclable items in the bin. It’s always important to check if an item can be recycled. When it comes to plastic items, each one has a triangle on the bottom with a number in the middle. This number tells you what kind of plastic it’s made out of.

Numbers 1-7 can be put in the recycle bin. If you’re unsure whether an item is recyclable, take a minute out of your day and look it up.

Recyclable Items:

• Plastic Bottles & Containers

• Paper

• Glass Bottles & Containers

• Flattened Cardboard & Paperboard

• Food & Beverage Cans (Aluminum and Steel)

Nonrecyclable Items:

• Food & Liquids

• Foam Cups & Containers

• Green Waste

• Batteries

• Loose Plastic Bags, Bagged Recyclables, or Film

• Clothing, Furniture, Carpet

• Bubble Wrap

Empty, Clean & Dry

If you recycle in your home, this is an essential step: only put empty, clean, and dry items into a recycle bin.

“The truth is that plastic with food residues in or on it usually cannot be recycled. Only good quality, clean plastics can go through the recycling process,” states rePurpose Global. “Sometimes a recycling factory would perform the washing for you, but most times the plastic is deemed useless, lumped with the other trash, and thrown in a landfill or incinerator.”

Waste Management suggests placing recyclables in your sink while rinsing dishes so the items are clean from residue and you minimize the amount of water needed.

Don’t Bag the Recycling

If you put your recyclables in a trash bag, all your hard work will be for nothing. Ironically, single-use plastic bags can’t be recycled. Instead of tossing a bag full of recyclables into the bin, empty the contents directly. It’s a small change with a big impact.

Even if your heart is in the right place when it comes to recycling, you are not actually helping the environment if you do not follow these three easy rules.

In addition to properly recycling, reducing and reusing materials is a great way to minimize your carbon footprint. One way to reduce is by being mindful of the products you are constantly using. Instead of buying a paper bag at the store, bring your canvas bags (you can carry more groceries, too!). When you go out to eat, bring your own to-go container for the leftovers. Little changes like this won’t cure the world, but they can minimize your individual carbon footprint.

While individual actions are important, it’s essential to recognize that the burden of solving the recycling crisis should not rest solely on the consumer’s shoulders. No matter how diligently we sort our plastics, the overarching impact comes down to corporate practices.

Consumers can influence change through informed choices and demand for ecoconscious products. However, true systemic change requires corporations to adopt environmentally responsible practices.

In the spirit of Earth Day, let’s take a hard look at our consumer habits, ensure we are recycling properly, and continue to have conversations about improving the environment.

FIND A SCHOOL 24/7

Search Colorado Parent ’s exclusive list of Denver’s schools anytime online. With an updated look and streamlined platform, our website is now faster, more engaging, and responsive on any device.

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Things We Love

Tree Hugger Essentials

These environmentally conscious items are perfect for all your daily needs.

Reduce, reuse, and recycle with these Reusable Paper Towels made from a cotton blend that is both absorbent and soft. $18.49, amazon.com

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Ditch the plastic and opt for the Plastic-Free Elastic Hair Ties that are biodegradable. $8.99, amazon.com

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This Stylish Reusable Bag is the perfect everyday reusable tote. It even folds into a tiny carrying case for easy storage. $14, baggu.com

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Say goodbye to that crusty dish sponge and hello to this handy, reliable bamboo Dish Brush. It’s tough on grease and hard-to-remove stains. $8.99, amazon.com

The Bamboozle Compost Bin is the perfect place for food waste, and it’s portable. Say goodbye to food waste. $39.99, amazon

RoundUp Sensory Friendly Places

BY AUSTRIA COHN

Resources

Ascend Behavior Partners

88 Inverness Cir. E., Ste. H103, Englewood (720) 237-2494

ascendbehavior.com

Behavioral Innovations

3000 Center Green Dri., Ste. 120, Boulder 10789 Bradford Rd., Ste. 150, Littleton (720) 673-9135

behavioral-innovations.com

Hopebridge Autism Services

945 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs (719) 309-3913

hopebridge.com

Sensory Friendly Colorado community@sensoryfriendlycolorado.org (720) 340-2070

sensoryfriendlycolorado.org

The Sensory Club

4301 S. Federal Blvd., Ste. 102/103, Englewood (720) 353-4044

thesensoryclub.com

Sensory Friendly Days & Places

Air City 360

Monday’s Special Needs Family Night

225 Spectrum Loop, Colorado Springs (719) 653-3182

aircity360.com

Alamo Draft House

Alamo For All Various Locations

drafthouse.com

*All shows in Denver Area locations starting before 2:05 p.m. on Tuesdays follow Alamo for All rules.*

AMC

Sensory Friendly Film Program

Various Locations

amctheatres.com

*Second & fourth Saturday (familyfriendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences)*

Apex Center

Sensory Friendly Swim Time

13150 W. 72nd Ave., Arvada

(303) 424-2739 apexprd.org

April 26

Butterfly Pavilion

6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster (717) 847-8058

butterflies.org

April 24, May 29, June 26, July 31, August 28, September 25, October 23, November 20, December 18

Children’s Museum Denver Marsico Campus

Low-Sensory Evenings

2121 Children’s Museum Dr., Denver (303) 433-7444

mychildrensmuseum.org

May 8

Chuck E. Cheese

Sensory Sensitive Sundays

2925 Geyser Dr., Colorado Springs 2309 Greeley Mall, Greeley chuckecheese.com

*First Sunday of each month*

Colorado Conservatory of Dance Adaptive Dance Classes

3001 Industrial Ln., #12, Broomfield (303) 466.5685 ccdance.org

Denver Art Museum

100 W. 14th Ave., Pkwy., Denver (720) 965-5000

denverartmuseum.org

May 7 & July 23

Downtown Aquarium

Low Sensory Mornings

700 Waterr St., Denver (303) 561-4450

aquariumrestaurants.com

April 21, May 19, June 16, July 21, August 18, September 15, October 20, November 17

East Library

5550 N. Union Blvd., Colorado Springs

Sensory Storytime (719) 531-6333

ppld.librarymarket.com

April 20

Feel the Beat

1555 Dover St., Lakewood (303) 816-8683

feelthebeat.dance

Lone Tree Arts Center

Sensory Inclusive Passport to Culture: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree (720) 509-1000

lonetreeartscenter.org

May 19

LuBird’s Light PLayground at Stanley Marketplace

2501 Dallas St., Aurora (720) 485-2234

lubirdslight.org

Sensory Park

7355 W. 103rd Ave., Westminster (303) 659-0215

westminsterco.gov

*The Sensory Park is the city’s first completely accessible play area*

WOW! Children’s Museum

Sensory Friendly Playtime

110 N. Harrison Ave., Lafayette (303) 604-2424

wowchildrensmuseum.org

April 16 & May 7

Wings Over the Rockies

Sensory Friendly Hours

7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver (303) 360-5360

wingsmuseum.org

April 1

Females are Better at Masking Autism Symptoms

BY VICTORIA MIKOTA

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can result in challenges with social interaction, communication, information processing, and behavior. According to the Centers for Disease Control, it’s estimated that 1 out of 36 children are affected by this disorder. Since autism is a “spectrum” disorder, there is a wide variation in the symptoms that those with the disorder may experience––ranging from high-functioning to low-functioning.

Each autistic person has a certain subtype, followed by specific strengths and challenges. While people of all genders may be affected by autism, boys are most likely to be diagnosed with this disorder. However, new research suggests that this isn’t due to the prevalence of the disorder, but the ability for girls to camouflage.

Autism in Girls

Autism in girls may look different than in boys. Although we know a lot more about the experiences of autistic women and girls now, society’s limited understanding, stigma, and incorrect assumptions about the disorder have made it difficult for autistic women and girls to get diagnosed. Girls with autism:

• Can be better at responding to non-verbal communication and gaze-following.

• May struggle with social communication later in life.

• May find it difficult to adapt.

• May have lower levels of verbal cognitive ability.

• May struggle to understand sarcasm.

• May obsess over more socially acceptable interests, such as TV shows.

• May find conversation difficult.

• May have a hard time keeping or making friends.

• May struggle with unusual sensory difficulties.

• May show interest in creativity or STEM.

• May struggle with directions or

understanding maps.

• May have poor posture.

• May enjoy excessively collecting items of their specific interests.

• Can be perfectionists.

Why Do Autistic Girls Go Undiagnosed?

Some girls show classic markers of autism, such as speech or language difficulty and self-stimulating behaviors. However, many go under the radar through subtle signs of autism that are hidden through masking; A conscious or subconscious suppression of autistic behaviors and difficulties in social interaction by autistic people with the goal of being perceived as displaying the “right” behavior by neurotypicals.

Moreover, girls and women are expected to align themselves with society’s expectations of how a young girl or woman should act. For example, through society’s lens, girls and women are expected to behave in a way that is “ladylike,” and exudes femininity. Women and girls are expected to be passive, quiet, and easygoing. Since some signs of autism mirror this behavior, it’s easy to gloss over.

In addition to camouflaging, autistic girls and women are more likely to partake in the following:

Mirroring

Autistic females are more likely to copy or mimic other people’s mannerisms, speech patterns, and personalities.

Hyper-Empathy

While empathy is a normal human trait, autistic people are more likely to experience a heightened level of empathy, known as hyper-empathy. This type of empathy can cause mild emotional situations to be devastating or overwhelming.

People-Pleasing

When autistic girls and women share

their true selves, they may be shamed or invalidated. This lack of support can cause girls and women affected by autism to hide pieces of themselves and submit to people-pleasing behaviors.

Social Withdrawl

Autistic girls may be more likely to come across as blunt when interacting with other people due to their more direct communication style. While they mean no ill intentions, blunt language can come across to others as harsh or abrasive, and cause issues. Thus, leaving autistic girls feeling rejected, and even isolated.

At School

Young girls with autism may present as the “quiet” child in school, or even be prone to emotional outbursts in the classroom. In addition, autistic girls may show disinterest in school sports, feel anxious during P.E. classes, and struggle with teachers who may raise their voices. Transitions from classroom to classroom may present an additional challenge.

In Friendships

In friendships, an autistic girl may struggle to fit into friendship groups or feel like they’re always left out. If a conflict were to arise, an autistic girl may get overwhelmed and instead choose solo playtime, versus playtime with a group.

How to Support Girls with Autism

Many girls go a long time, sometimes well into adulthood, before getting diagnosed with autism. For some, this diagnosis could lead to a sense of relief, understanding, and self-acceptance. For others, a diagnosis could lead to other avenues of self-discovery, such as awareness of mental illnesses or learning disabilities. Whether you suspect high or low-functioning autism, getting your child diagnosed as soon as possible can help improve their quality of life and give them the support they need to thrive.

Just a Click Away From a Child Predator

BY AUSTRIA COHN

It happens too often. An older man reaches out to a young girl on social media, sometimes as young as 10 years old. The man knows a lot about the tween, like that she lives in Highlands Ranch, plays soccer, listens to Taylor Swift, and her favorite subject is writing. He also knows that she frequently goes to Park Meadows Mall with her friends, and the family eats at the local pizza shop in Southglenn. He knows all of this information because she has an Instagram and Facebook account. What happens next depends on what type of predator has just contacted the child.

“The thing to remember is that predators are after one of three things. They’re either after some kind of explicit pictures – getting content. They want to meet in person, or they want to extort that person for money.

Sometimes it’s all three, but those are kind of the distinct pathways,” says John DiGirolamo, author and Board President of Bringing Our Valley Hope, a nonprofit whose objective is to end human trafficking in Central Colorado.

It’s too easy now. With just a click of a button, these predators have an ocean of information, from pictures, videos, and social status to hobbies, family members, and the school a child attends. A child could be sitting at the kitchen table, with parents only feet away, and no one knows they’re being sexually harassed, manipulated, or emotionally abused.

Every day, self-conscious tweens and hormonal teens accept friend and follow requests from random people. It’s been normalized because they either want to be an influencer or they see it as a popularity contest.

“Many kids spend a lot of time online, and today’s kids look at online friends as real friends,” DiGirolamo explains. “I’ve been told by several police officers that popular suburban teenage girls can have 5,000 friends and followers…I guarantee, if you have 5,000 friends as a teenager, there are definitely some predators in there.”

However, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok aren’t the only platforms these pred-

ators are lurking on. Discord has become a popular hub for these types of people, and any video game that is online or has a live chat most likely has an older man lying in wait. Child predators will wait on games that children are most interested in, like Minecraft and Fortnite.

“I saw a post by a parent who said that a predator was trying to get ahold of her daughter through Fitbit because she was posting workouts,” DiGirolamo shares.

Most of the time, these predators use fake profiles to contact children. They will change their accounts to match and relate to their target. In some cases, they have dozens of profiles depending on who they’re after. The young girl who likes Taylor Swift, plays soccer, and her favorite subject is writing might encounter a predator whose account has the same interests and hobbies.

The tactics are different depending on the predator and the child they are trying to manipulate.

You’re so hot.

Your parents are controlling you too much.

I can take care of you.

Your parents are mean to you; I’ll be nice to you.

I can make you an influencer.

Through these different tactics, the predator is trying to build trust and groom the child. Children are inherently the most vulnerable community, and the predators know this. They want to manipulate these children so they can either get explicit content, meet in person, or exploit the child.

“A lot of people think that they always go after girls, and that’s not true. But, a preda-

tor will approach a girl and a boy differently. For a girl, they’re going to want content, pictures, and videos – they’re going to want to meet at a motel. For a boy, they want to extort for money,” DiGirolamo says.

It’s normal for teenagers to be self-conscious, confused, and embarrassed, but these predators also know this. If an attractive girl sends a friend request to a 13-yearold, self-conscious, pimple-faced young boy on social media – what happens? Typically, the attractive girl will begin sending explicit photos of herself to the boy. But the boy isn’t talking to a beautiful woman; he is more likely messaging an older man. The predator then will message something like, I’ve sent you photos, now you have to.

The predator is manipulating the self-conscious boy. A beautiful woman just sent him explicit photos; he feels obligated to participate. And unfortunately, many boys fall into this trap.

As soon as he presses “send” for the images, the tables turn. The account demands money for the photos and threatens to post them online. When this tactic is used, these young boys feel isolated and embarrassed, and many do not share this information with their parents out of fear. Some teens even take their own life.

Whether a young girl or boy was manipulated to do something for a child predator, it’s not their fault. But this kind of guilt can change their life. Even behind a dimly lit phone screen, these types of people can do unspeakable damage to our children.

Protecting Our Children

From talking about Stranger Danger and how they should react if an adult approaches them in public to the Sex Talk when they get their first serious boyfriend or girlfriend, certain conversations must be had.

The child predator discussion will look different depending on the child’s age. Online resources like the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the National Center on Sexual Exploitation can help start this conversation. Another resource is DiGirolamo’s book, It’s Not About

the Predator: A Parent’s Guide to Internet & Social Media Safety, which is a practical and easy-to-read guide about the dangers of online predators.

Moreover, tweens and teens are moody and hormonal, and it can be challenging to know when something is wrong when their response is consistently “I’m fine.” It’s not uncommon for kids to be sneaky, lie, and hide things from their parents.

“If all of a sudden, your happy, go-lucky 14-year-old is withdrawn or defiant, or both, that’s a big red flag. Now of course, that can mean all kinds of things for teenagers, right?” DiGirolamo shares. “But some of the bigger ones are if somebody seems to be addicted to their phone and their social

media or gaming, things like that – that’s a big sign. And then there’s some I would call kind of real practical science, whereas if you have a child or teenager and all of a sudden they get Amazon packages that you didn’t order, and they get these unexplained gifts.”

As a parent, sometimes the best thing to do is trust your gut. If your child is acting different – more moody, agitated, or depressed – ask for their phone.

DiGirolamo also encourages parents to use parental control apps like Bark and Canopy. In some cases, parental controls can protect children and teens from accessing certain information on social media platforms and Google. But this doesn’t work for every rebellious teen because there are

videos upon videos showing how to break these controls and hide things from parents. Another option is getting your child a Dumb Phone, which has the limited features of a smartphone.

We live in a day and age where the phrase “It won’t happen to me” no longer applies, and ignorance is not bliss. Technology has changed the reach of these child predators, and as parents, you need to be vigilant.

“If you don’t know what’s on that kid’s phone, then you’re already behind the eight ball,” DiGirolamo warns. “You’ve got to have some kind of technology helping you out, but you also have to have those difficult conversations.”

Money Lessons Every Child Should Learn

BY VICTORIA MIKOTA

Financial literacy is a crucial skill for people of all ages. When it comes to learning how to be smart with money, the sooner you teach your children, the better. As parents and caregivers, it’s essential to teach children about money management from a young age. By creating smart money habits and imparting valuable lessons, we can empower our children to make informed financial decisions in the future. Here are five money lessons every child should learn.

#1. The Value of Money

Teaching your child how to earn, manage, and appreciate the value of money is one of the first steps toward financial literacy. Kids begin to understand how money works between the ages of six and eight. Start to familiarize your child with money early on by collecting coins, engaging in coin identification activities, and sorting coins by color and monetary value. Once your child is familiar with money and its value, you can start teaching them where money comes from. Most children believe that

money comes from Mom or Dad, and while this may be true in some instances, they need to learn that money is earned. Provide opportunities for your child to earn money by assigning age-appropriate chores or tasks around the house.

#2. Savings Is Not for Spending

It’s good to acquaint your child with the habit of saving money from an early age. To a kid, being told to save money may seem pointless. Helping your child define a savings goal can be a great way to make the savings process more manageable for them. For example, if they want to buy a $25 toy, and they get $15 a week, help them figure out how long it will take to reach this goal. While saving twenty-five dollars for a toy now might seem silly, this habit will translate to saving for a car in years to come.

In addition to helping with saving money, your children will need a place to stash their cash. For younger children, this might be a piggy bank, but if they’re a little older, it might be a good idea to open up a savings account at your local bank. If you’re really wanting to impress money goals on your child, you can even open up a child-friendly debit card through FamZoo, gohenry, or Greenlight. These cards give you full control over your child’s spending. With the touch of a button, you can limit your child’s

financial freedom, or deposit money into their account.

#3. Needs vs. Wants

Children should learn early on how to differentiate needs from wants. Help them to learn that needs are for survival essentials like food, shelter, water, gas, and clothing–while wants, on the other hand, are things that might bring us joy or pleasure like toys, sweets, or entertainment. This lesson can help your child prioritize their spending and avoid impulsive purchases. One way you can help your child learn to navigate needs versus wants is by having them make a list of wants and needs. Once they’ve made their list, have them draw a star beside each need. Another way you can help your child learn wants and needs is by pointing out items at the grocery store. These activities are simple ways to show your child items that are essential and items they can live without.

#4. Basics of Budgeting

Introduce children to the concept of budgeting to create smart money habits. Teach them how to allocate funds to set portions aside for savings, spending, and donating (or tithing). Encourage your child to keep track of their expenses. A great resource for your child’s budgeting is a downloadable Pinterest worksheet where

you can write down expenses and take notes of spending. Another way you can track your child’s budgeting is by keeping their cash in separate envelopes. Label each envelope with “Save,” “Spend,” and “Donate” and put the cash in each envelope accordingly. When they receive money for birthdays or special occasions, teach them to ration out a percentage for each category.

#5. The Power of Giving Back

When teaching your child about money, it’s important to teach them about generosity and the act of giving back. Encourage them to donate a portion of their money or time to charitable causes they care about. Maybe even take an afternoon to volunteer together to show them where their money goes for certain charities. This lesson helps children develop a sense of moral responsibility and an understanding that the impact of money goes beyond just their personal needs.

Financial literacy is a lifelong process. It’s never too early or too late to begin teaching your children about money and equip them with the knowledge of wise spending habits. Teaching your children the value of money can help have a lasting impact on their future financial well-being.

2024 Camp Showcase

When it comes to summer plans, Colorado Parent has you covered. Discover the best summer camps and experiences all in one place! Start planning your child’s summer adventure today!

There are warm summer nights, outdoor adventures, and exciting new friends waiting for your kiddo at summer camp! Mark your calendars and start thinking about what summer break will look like.

Our Picks APRIL

The Shortsfest is recognized as one of the premier short film festivals in North America. April 1-7.

Aspen Film. aspenfilm.org

Aspen Shortsfest 1

2 Taste of Vail

The

3

4

5

6 Club Kidz at Bounce Empire

Bring the kiddos to the weekly kids’ dance party, where kid DJs will be playing EDM, pop, country, and more. April 13.

Bounce Empire, Lafayette. bounceempire.com

8

Splashdown Pond Skim

The Splashdown Pond Skim brings brave and slightly crazy skiers and riders to Steamboat Springs for an exciting day of competition.

April 14. Steamboat Resort. steamboat.com

7 Ballet Ariel Silver Anniversary Dance Collection

The Balet Ariel presents “An American in Paris,” “Appalachian Spring,” and “Dances from Le Corsaire.” April 13-28. Denver & Lakewood. balletariel.org

Mile High Flea Market 10

Gather the whole family for an awesome day out at the Mile High Flea Market - the ideal spot for a perfect family outing! With something for everyone, it’s the go-to place for some quality family time.

For the shopping enthusiasts, the Farmer’s Market awaits, showcasing the freshest produce, hand-crafted goods, delightful spices, and beautiful flowers. Plus, you’ll be supporting local Colorado businesses while snagging some fantastic finds at the Garage Sale – you never know what treasures you’ll find.

Keep the kiddos entertained as you shop. They can have a blast on the Heritage Big Wheel, the Dragon Coaster, and the giant slide. For a cool-down, there are brand new bumper boats, toddler-friendly mini mobiles, a bounce house, and more.

The Flea Market is open from Friday to Sunday, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the rides are open Saturdays and Sundays. If you’re a frequent visitor, grab an Annual Buyer’s Pass for $89, or opt for general admission that’s $2-3 (children eight and under enjoy free entry!). Worried about parking? Don’t be – it’s free, and there are plenty of spots.

Earth Day Celebration 9

What better way to celebrate Earth Day than at Denver Botanic Gardens? Exciting activities are happening at York Street and Chatfield Farms. April 21. Denver Botanic Gardens. botanicgardens.org

Whether you’re after fresh produce, unique gifts, or a thrilling ride or two, Mile High Flea Market has it all. Make your family outing one to remember!

7007 E. 88th Ave., Henderson milehighfleamarket.com

to do today

April

1 Monday

Maker Mondays:

Hand Embroidery

1:30-3:30pm

For adults 18 and older, sign up for a three-session workshop to master the fundamentals of hand embroidery, specifically creating flowers and plants. Each week, discover various stitches and how to use them to create different leaves and blooms. Lafayette Public Library. lafayetteco.gov

Strike it Rich! Puzzle Room Experience

8pm

Have you got the skills to hit the jackpot? Immerse yourself and your team in a themed room, deciphering clues and solving puzzles within a 60-minute timeframe to reach the ultimate goal – but time is of the essence. Golden Puzzle Room. feverup.com

2 Tuesday

Master Gardener Helpline

9am-1pm

The Colorado’s Master Gardener volunteers are equipped to address your gardening queries, offer insights into plant issues, and provide free resources for a thriving season. Tap into their expertise for guidance on your gardening journey. Broomfield CSU Extension. compass. broomfield.org

Strolling Stories at Chatfield Farms: Sounds of Nature

9:30am

Close your eyes, listen closely, and explore the nearby sounds

Adults are invited every first Wednesday of the month to engage in discussions for fiction and nonfiction titles. Readers should meet upstairs in the event hall. The reading list can be found online. Lone Tree Library. douglascountylibraries. evanced.info

4 Thursday

Free Legal Self-Help Clinic 2-3:30pm

Legal challenges are complicated, but the free self-help clinic is there to help. Volunteer lawyers help with questions in family law, property law, and more. Register online two weeks ahead for a 15-minute appointment. Belmar Library, Lakewood. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com

Tim McGraw: Standing Room Only Tour

7pm

For all the country fans out there, Tim McGraw is stopping by the Ball Arena for an unforgettable night. Tickets start at $39.50 and can be purchased online. Ball Arena, Denver. ticketmaster.com

of nature. Guests will create their own sounds using natural materials. Strolling Stories at Denver Botanic Gardens combines story time and nature hikes. Explore the changing seasons each week, read a themed story along the trail, and continue the adventure with hands-on exploration. Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, Littleton. botanicgardens.org

3 Wednesday

LEGO Build and Play 3:30-4:30pm

Calling all LEGO enthusiasts! Bring your kiddo to the building session, where artists and engineers can unleash their creativity and craft unique creations. LEGO bricks will be provided; all kiddos need to bring is their imagination. Columbine Library. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com

Book Banter 6:30-8pm

5 Friday Rockies Opening Day Patio Party

10am

Start the season off right with the Rockies Opening Day Patio Party at Terminal Bar’s patio. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., enjoy a Rockies Brat while DJ Chris plays groovy beats. Snap a picture with a Stiltwalker or at the themed photo booth. Terminal Bar Patio, Denver. denverunion station.com

Murder & Mystery Dinner

6:30-9:30pm

Looking for a fun date night? Head to Maggiano’s Downtown Denver location for a night full of murder and mystery, all while enjoying delicious food. This will be an exciting night, and you may even become a suspect. Tickets are $70. Maggiano’s Little Italy, Denver. eventbrite.com

6 Saturday STILLness: Meditation in the

The adorable Daddy Daughter Dance! April 6. Photo by Gaylord Rockies.

Galleries

9-10am

Relax and clear your mind at the Clyfford Still Museum with a morning of meditation before the museum opens to the public. No prior experience is needed, and all are welcome. Bring a mat or cushion, and chairs are provided. Space is limited, so register in advance. Clyfford Still Museum, Denver. clyffordstillmuseum.org

Daddy Daughter Dance

6-9pm

Sign up for the Daddy Daughter Dance for a memorable evening of dressing up, dancing, dinner, and laughter for fathers or father figures and their daughters of all ages. Tickets are $35, and the VIP Add-on is $25. Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, Aurora. tix. denverurbanspectrum.com

7 Sunday

Donut Dash 5K Run/Walk

9am

Bring the whole family to the Donut Dash 5K! Registration includes a donut shirt, a finisher medal, a fresh (and delicious) donut at the end of the race, and an exciting atmosphere. Registration is $40 the day of the race and $5 less for ages 17 and under. Washington Park, Denver. coloradorunnerevents.com

Virtual Reality Experiences for Everyone

10am-10:30pm

Head to the VR Arcade for a personalized adventure, from dueling with Darth Vadar to raising a baby dragon. Enjoy the virtual world with friends and family with no participant limits, ensuring there’s something for everyone. VR Arcade USA, Denver. feverup.com

8 Monday

Homeschool Day: The Art of Nature

10am

Discover plant-based themes at Homeschool Days with handson activities and take-home projects. Kiddos can explore at their own pace with the selfguided programs that feature activity stations throughout the Gardens. Denver Botanic Gardens. botanicgardens.org

9 Tuesday

Watercolor Painting Class

2-4pm

Join the creative journey exploring watercolors, specifically capturing the beauty of desert landscapes. Whether you’re a beginner or aiming to improve your skills, the class offers a fun and supportive environment for all artistic levels. Lone Tree Library. douglascountylibraries. evanced.info

New Talent Night

7:30pm

For a hilarious comedy show,

head to Comedy Works to see amateur local comics and nationally touring professionals. This event happens again on April 16. Comedy Works Downtown, Denver. comedyworks.com

10 Wednesday

Well Wednesday

Yoga Flow

8:30-9:30am

Experience the transformative Yoga Flow class, synchronizing breath with movement for a seamless dance of body and spirit. This class is open to all levels and will focus on strength, flexibility, and mindfulness on the mat. Boundless Body and Wellness, Arvada. youareboundless.com

Free Gardening Class: Growing Onions

6pm

Register for the free gardening class, where you will learn everything about growing onions. The class will cover planting, watering, fertilizing, harvesting, drying, and caring for them. Arvada Community Garden. arvadagardeners.org

11 Thursday

“Dare”-aoke Night

6-9pm

Support the organization, Project I See You, by singing karaoke! Get a random song from the “Jukebox Jackpot,” or donate and choose your own favorite to sing. Win prizes, network, kick back, and sing. Registration is required and is $20-40. Park Center Lounge, Westminster. eventbrite.com

Night of Hope

6-9pm

Kenneth & Myra Monfort Family Foundation is hosting the Night of Hope event, which honors volunteers, raises awareness, and raises money for abused and neglected children in Boulder County. General admission is $100, and a table is $750. Lionsgate Event Center, Lafayette. vfcboulder.org

12 Friday

Colorado Mineral & Fossil Spring Show

10am-6pm

Head to the Colorado Mineral & Fossil Spring Show to see retail and wholesale gemstones, minerals, meteorites, fossils, jewelry, opals, and more. The show is happening on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This event is family-friendly and has free admission. Crowne Plaza Hotel, Denver. xpopress.com

Teen After Hours: Friday Flicks

6-8pm

The Standley Lake library invites all teens to enjoy popcorn, snacks, and a movie after hours at the library. The movie happening on Friday is Sweetheart, and the film is rated PG-13. Standley Lake Library, Arvada. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com

13 Saturday

Pollinator Party: An Earth Day Celebration

11am-1pm

Celebrate Earth Day by learning about the essential pollinators in the world. Butterfly Pavillion experts will be at the event to give a presentation. There are engaging kid craft projects that are perfect for the little ones. Orchard Town Center, Westminster. theorchardtowncenter.com

14 Sunday

Music in the Galleries Noon-2pm

Enjoy live music by Stef Kull at the Clyfford Still Museum with the whole family. The performance is included with the museum admission and is free for the CSM members. Seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Clyfford Still Museum, Denver. clyffordstillmuseum.org

Taste of Pearl

2-6pm

At the heart of Downtown Boulder is Pearl Street, which has delicious culinary delights, along with vibrant galleries and boutiques. Stroll down the street with friends and enjoy the unique

The Donut Dash 5K!

Photo by Colorado Runner Events.

atmosphere Pearl Street has to offer. This event is pet-free and 21 and up only. Pearl Street, Boulder. boulderdowntown.com

15 Monday

Toddler Time

10:15-10:45pm

Bring your little ones to Wheat Ridge Library for Toddler time. Sing, rhyme, dance, and tell stories together, all while keeping their minds active. This is a recurring event that happens every Monday. Wheat Ridge Library. jeffcolibrary. bibliocommons.com

16 Tuesday

Space Explorers: The Infinite 4pm

The extraordinary immersive adventure comes to Aurora until May 5, where viewers will see 360-degree videos captured in space using cutting-edge technology. This experience is meant for ages eight and up. Tickets are $25-45, and there are several time frames to choose from. Stanley Marketplace, Aurora. theinfinite experience.world

17 Wednesday

4th & 5th Grade Book Club

4-5pm

Students in 4th and 5th grade are invited to the book club meeting that happens every third Wednesday. Each month, kiddos will discuss a different book, eat snacks, and have fun. Snag a spot by registering online and pick up the current book title

at the Children’s Library desk. Children’s Library, Broomfield. compass.broomfield.org

Evening Yoga

5:30pm

For a gentle yoga class, head to Denver Botanic Gardens which combines principles of Vinyasa and Hatha yoga. All skill levels are welcome, and the instructor offers various modifications. Denver Botanic Gardens.

botanicgardens.org

18 Thursday

Mid-Morning Meditation

10-10:30am

Start your morning off right with the virtual meditation session that will alleviate stress and calm the mind. Call (303) 502-5189 to join or view the recorded session by visiting jeffcolibrary.org. Online. jeffcolibrary.orrg

Anime Night

5:45-7:45pm

Grades 6-12 are invited to the Anime Night at the library. Tweens and Teens will socialize with friends, explore new books, use art supplies for anime creations, and enjoy snacks. Broomfield Library and Auditorium. compass. broomfield.org

19 Friday

Friday Family Night Out

Every Friday, Kids Wonder invites the entire family for an exciting

night filled with fun, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime. Guests can pre-order pizza, and there are discounts on adult beverages. Kids Wonder, Centennial. kidswonder.net

Durango Bluegrass Meltdown 6pm

The Bluegrass Meltdown is a festival you won’t want to miss. The festival is happening all weekend long with different performers every day. Check online for ticket prices and to see who’s performing. Animas Trading Company, Durango. durangomeltdown.com

20 Saturday Fiber Fest

9am-Noon

Head to the free Fiber Fest, which celebrates all things fiber and wool. There will be adorable baby lambs, a variety of fiber arts, and local artists and vendors. This is a family-friendly event that has kid activities.

Happy Earth Day!

Photo by Freepik

April 28. Photo by Downtown Boulder.

The Urban Farm, Denver. theurbanfarm.org

Fun at the Firehouse

10am

On every first or third Saturday of every month, experience fire-related stories and crafts. After the craft session, enjoy a guided children’s museum tour, which is perfect for the whole family. Reservations are required. Denver Firefighters Museum. denverfirefightersmuseum.org

21 Sunday

Party for Our Planet

9am-4pm

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday celebrate Earth Day at the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus. Guests can meet interesting critters, craft sustainable art, learn about conservation, and more. Activities vary each day and are included with Museum admission

(members are free). Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus. mychildsmuseum.org

Dungeons & Dragons

1:15-4:15pm

For ages 10 and up, bring them to the library for a legendary D&D session. This group meets on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month, and kiddos will go on a problem-solving adventure. This is a free program that does not require registration. Broomfield Library. compass.broomfield.org

22 Monday

Botanic Garden’s Free Day

Bring the whole family to the Botanic Gardens to celebrate Earth Day. This is a perfect opportunity to explore the gardens. Register online for the free day, either at the York Street location or Chatfield Farms. The upcoming free days are June 5, July 3, and August 28. Denver Botanic Gardens.

Spotlight

42nd Annual Cardboard Classic

On April 13, the town of Steamboat eagerly welcomes competitors, families, and friends for the 42nd Annual Cardboard Classic. The air is charged with excitement as participants and spectators prepare for a day of wild and hilarious racing.

Contestants will get crafty and create a unique cardboard craft using glue, string, water-based paints, duct tape, masking tape, balloons, and various decorations. Then there will be a race down Stampede that will have a hysterical finish!

There will be awards presented at the end of the race for the

botanicgardens.org

23 Tuesday

Math & Science Tutoring

4:30pm, 5:15pm, 6pm

The Broomfield Library is offering virtual math and science tutoring for students in grades 6-12 every Tuesday. Register online to receive the Zoom link. Broomfield Library. compass. broomfield.org

26 Friday

Four Mile Park Free Day

10am-4pm

Secure your spot for the free day by reserving tickets online before the spots fill up. Four Mile Historic Park, Denver. fourmilepark.org

Mountain Plover Festival 5pm

If you love birds, head to the Mountain Plover Festival for bird watching, delicious food,

entertainment, and more. The festival is happening from April 26- 28. Tickets are on sale now, and information for lodging can be found online. Karval. mountainploverfestival.com

27 Saturday

Boulder County Farmers Market

8am-2pm

The market is open on Saturdays, and the Wednesday market opens on May 1. 13th Street Between Arapahoe Ave. & Canyon Blvd., Boulder. bcfm.org

28 Sunday

Tulip Fairy & Elf Festival 1-5pm

Celebrate the warm season with the beloved springtime tradition – Tulip Fairy & Elf Festival. There will be a parade, performances, special activities for the kiddos, and more than 15,000 tulips on Pearl Street Mall. Pearl Street, Boulder. boulderdowntown.com

following categories: CocaCola Classic, Most Creative, Best Individual Craft, Best Reproduction, Judge’s Choice, Best Costumes, Crowd Favorite, and Best Engineering. Not only will the day be full of laughs and competition, but making the cardboard creation will be an adventure for you and your kiddo.

The day begins with registration and check-in from 10-11 a.m. Cardboard D’Elegance and judging is from 11-11:30 a.m., and the race begins at 11:30 a.m. There is no entry fee for this event. For guidelines, rules, and more information, jump online today.

Steamboat Springs. steamboat.com

Photo by Cardboard Classic.

fresh mindset

I want them to know that their future is dependent on how determined they are and how hard they’re willing to work for it and that they shouldn’t be limited by what society feels is ‘too much’ for them.

SHANNON COX is a mother of three, and her family loves camping, kayaking, and enjoying the beauty Colorado has to offer. She is also the Executive Director of Colorado Connections Academy, a virtual school network offering high-quality public school education. Cox is known for her empathetic approach to both her work ethic and parenting, creating genuine connections at home and school.