August 2020
Growing Great Families Since 1986
Best Bets for Front Range Families
Our Readers' Favorite Kids Meals, Camps, Schools, Pediatricians, and more!
4 Quick
C
OL
ORAD
O
Breakfasts for Busy Mornings
Plus 99 Ideas for Virtual and In-Person Family Fun
Tips to Bring More Laughter Into Your Family
PART OF OF THETHE PART
PUBLISHING FAMILY PUBLISHING FAMILY
ColoradoParent.com
Families prefer the hospital
Where
our worlds come together.
Thank you, Colorado Parent magazine readers, for naming us your favorite hospital four years in a row! We are humbled to be such an important part of the Denver community, and we go out of our way to make sure your kids feel at home here. When we team up with you, we get your kids back to their world fast. Because we’re #AmazingTogether. For more information visit us at WeAreAmazingTogether.com
We believe a classroom
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Now Enrolling Pre-K to 9th Grade The Montessori method treats the whole world as a classroom, with a mission to create curious, self-directed learners who seek out knowledge wherever they are. Our students showed remarkable resilience when transitioning to at-home learning this spring, and we expect them to continue thriving this fall, whether on-campus or remote. When the focus of learning is to free each student’s mind from the confines of the classroom, they can find success wherever life takes them. Schedule a tour to learn more. Mayfair - Park Hill - Stapleton
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Mom and kids at table: Getty Images.
CONTENTS August 2020 advertising
features 28
33
Clever tips and tricks for a flawlessly organized school year.
From great hikes and the best kids meal to orthodontists and photographers local parents love, here are the 2020 favorites.
SET YOURSELF UP FOR SCHOOL YEAR SUCCESS
departments 6
ON THE WEB
8
FROM THE EDITORS
The latest tips and tricks on ColoradoParent.com
What We Learned
11
GOOD TO KNOW
14
LET'S GO
16
Colorado Day Scavenger Hunt
18
PARENTING 911
20
GOOD STUFF
24
FUN & ACTIVITIES
26
FAMILY FOOD
GORGEous Views Await
READ TO ME
62
Back to School Education & Enrichment
Toys That Celebrate Diversity
Make 'Em Laugh
Quick Breakfasts for Busy Mornings
ROUNDUP
4 Places to Putt-Putt
24 Bring More Laughter Into Your Family | 26 4 Quick Breakfasts for Busy Mornings 33 Best Bets for Front Range Families | 33 Readers' Favorite Kids Meals, Camps, Schools, and More | 55 99 Ideas for Family Fun
Colorado Parent | August 2020
21
Stop the Baby Talk
Books for Simple Outdoor Adventures
on the cover
4
2020 FAMILY FAVORITES
55
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Our monthly roundup of local events returns with virtual and in-person activities around town.
Cover: Getty images.
WHETHER IN PERSON OR FROM A DISTANCE, WE WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT COLORADO STUDENTS. Our 39,000 members thank parents for supporting Colorado educators during the abrupt shifts in education as a result of COVID-19. Students need more, not less, and we’re fighting for the resources necessary to provide the schools our students deserve.
coloradoea.org
On the Web
Colorado Parent Online Classroom, mother on laptop: Getty Images. Backpack: Wanderwild.
Back-to-School Guide Classrooms are going to look a lot different this school year. And while district plans vary across the state, one thing is for certain: you will still need great tools, support, and resources to help your children succeed. We’re here to help with our annual back-to-school guide. It’s packed with information to navigate the new school year, whether your kids are doing in-person or remote learning. From healthy lunch and snack ideas to homeschool tips and learning resources, you’ll find a growing selection of articles to get your family school-ready.
Colorado Parent Squad Join Colorado Parent’s new Facebook group! The group is the perfect place to post your parenting questions, make new friends, and share a laugh with other parents in your community. Join at facebook.com/groups/ coloradoparentsquad.
Win a Backpack! We've teamed up with Wanderwild to send two lucky winners a backpack of their choice along with a set of lunchbox notes. To enter for a chance to win, follow us on Instagram at @coloradoparent and look for our post on August 10. Winners will be announced on August 14.
Pin With Us Have you seen the new and improved Colorado Parent Pinterest page? We recently gave our boards an overhaul and are excited to bring you even more pin-able content. Follow along at pinterest.com/coloradoparent.
CONNECT WITH US
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
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Sign up for our E-NEWSLETTER at ColoradoParent.com
From the Editors
What We Learned…
LO V
IT
Diversify your child’s toy box with these toys and books that celebrate differences. Page 20
PRODUCTION Art Director Heather Gott
L
Back-to-school While nothing about school Mask up and leave the house for a feels certain, kids will mini-adventure to Colorado’s Royal have schoolwork and will Gorge. It’s an amazing site be doing at least part of it that’s less than two hours at home. Turn to page 28 for from Denver. Page 18 tips to create an organized homework space.
IT
TRENDING
ADVERTISING SALES Advertising Director Patrick Pacheco patrick@coloradoparent.com Senior Account Manager Brigette Swartz brigette@coloradoparent.com Account Manager Hilary Angel hilary@coloradoparent.com Client Services Coordinator Shundra Jackson
VE EA
Pivot, adjust, adapt, recalculate. Some days we just need a good laugh to get through all of this. Actress, mom, and Denver native Kristen Schaal (30 Rock, The Last Man on Earth), along with Denver kids entertainers Ann Lincoln and Jeff Kagan share their tips to bring more laughter into your home, on page 24.
E
Things that inspired this issue, and what our editors discovered along the way.
EDITORIAL edit@coloradoparent.com Editor Deborah Mock Associate Editor Christina Cook Assistant Editor Kara Thompson Editorial Assistant Anna Sutterer Copy Editor Lydia Rueger
MARKETING Senior Marketing Director Carrie Horn Marketing & Events Coordiantor Piniel Simegn Marketing Coordinator Jess Mora ADMINISTRATION Billing and Collections Manager Jessica McHeard
CAN’T WAIT We are looking forward to the day when we can enjoy all of the family-friendly businesses, attractions, and services in Colorado, pandemic-free. Until then, check out our 2020 Family Favorites winners. Find all the honorees beginning on page 33.
DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Audrey Congleton Audience Development Coordinator Caitlin Kittrell circulation@coloradoparent.com Printed by Publication Printers Please recycle this magazine.
YOU SAID IT A well-balanced breakfast is important because it means that a child is getting enough complex carbohydrates for energy, protein for blood sugar regulation and muscle strength, and enough healthy fats to keep them satisfied throughout the morning. —Nutritionist Sara Peternell, on building the best back-to-school breakfast. Find recipes on page 26.
Share your feedback and ideas! Email us at edit@coloradoparent.com.
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CREATIVE SERVICES Creative Services Director Carly Lambert Lead Graphic Designer Chelsea Conrad Digital Advertising Manager Nick Stonecipher Graphic Designer Caitlin Brooks Print Production Manager Megan Skolak Production Coordinator D'mitrius Brewer Creative Services Intern Cole Navalta
Colorado Parent | August 2020
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 PRESIDENT & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Daniel Brogan VICE PRESIDENT, STRATEGY Andrea Bott VICE PRESIDENT, REVENUE 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.
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Well Care is Important. Even During a Pandemic. Life certainly looks different these days, but well care visits are still one of the most important aspects of your child’s health. Make sure your child is healthy, growing properly, and up-to-date on vaccinations. We know parents are worried and we’re working to ensure the safety and health of your kids with different hours and entrances for well and sick kids, rigorous sanitation practices, and virtual visits for certain health concerns. Let’s work together to protect our children in every way that we can. Call today to schedule.
Call 303-699-6200 www.advancedpediatricassociates.com Centennial | Aurora | Parker | Stapleton
10
Colorado Parent | August 2020
Good to Know HELPFUL NEWS, IDEAS, AND TIPS FOR COLORADO PARENTS
Colorado Day Scavenger Hunt Put 144 candles on the cake, August 1 is Colorado’s birthday! We’ve got a party game to make the celebration last all month long: take the kids on a hunt for the state’s official symbols. Here’s where to find some of our favorites.
COLORADO'S STATE SYMBOLS Animal Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep FIND IT: While you may never see the impressive Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep in the wild, you can observe Lucy, Rita, and Sandy, the resident ewes at the Denver Zoo, making their way up and down the side of Sheep Mountain throughout the day. denverzoo.org
Insect
Background: Getty Images.
Colorado Hairstreak Butterfly FIND IT: The Hypaurotis crysalus or Colorado Hairstreak can be found in its wild habitat among Gamble Oak groves in the Foothills, but for a guaranteed glimpse, visit the Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster. butterflies.org
Fossil Stegosaurus FIND IT: Pay homage to the site of the world’s first Stegosaurus discovery in the Bone Bed at Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison. dinoridge.org
Mineral Rhodochrosite FIND IT: Get an eyeful of this red stunner in the Gems and Minerals Hall at Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Enter the Sweet Home Mine to see a six-foot wall covered in the rhodochrosite crystals. dmns.org
Just to make the day even more festive, admission to the History Colorado Center is free on August 1. Reserve tickets to explore more Centennial State history.
Song “Where the Columbines Grow” and “Rocky Mountain High” FIND IT: You could just ask Alexa to play Colorado’s second state song, “Rocky Mountain High” by John Denver, but the John Denver Experience at History Colorado Center, offers a glimpse of Denver performing the song in a concert video, alongside other memorabilia. historycolorado.org
Grass Blue Grama Grass FIND IT: Kids probably know the state flower is the Columbine, but you could stump them with the state grass. View the Blue Grama Grass in the Laura Smith Porter Plains Garden at Denver Botanic Gardens York Street. As an added bonus, check out the Claret Cup Cactus, the state cactus, in the Dryland Mesa Garden. botanicgardens.org
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
11
Good to Know
Dog and cat: Getty Images.
Create and Appreciate with Hecho en Colorado Cafecitos It’s essential for children to be exposed to art, says Adrianna Abarca, curator of the new Hecho en Colorado exhibit at History Colorado Center. The intimate tours she is hosting each Friday morning at History Colorado Center give families a chance to learn more about not only Colorado’s Chicano and Mexican art, but also some history of the Mexican Americans of Colorado. The small events called cafecitos, Abarca says, are especially constructive because attendees can ask questions and make connections between art and history—something she says our communities need to do more in order to experience and celebrate diversity. “I’m going to have kids choose a piece of art that they are the most attracted to and stand in front of it,” Abarca says. “I can ask them questions about why they enjoy it and they can ask me questions about the piece.” Families can also take a reminder of the exhibit home. Coloring pages from the Hecho en Colorado Coloring Book, filled with original drawings from local artists, are available near the exhibit entrance or for download at LCAC-Denver.org. Cafecitos tours are available for groups of 10 or fewer through early January in Spanish and English. Reservations are required. historycolorado.org/cafecitos
Download this coloring page, from the Hecho en Colorado Coloring Book, by Norberto Mojardin at ColoradoParent.com.
You Can Earn a Girl Scout Patch You don’t have to be a Girl Scout to earn their latest patch. Girl Scouts of Colorado (GSOC) announced their new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programming—open to anyone—to help start a conversation about race and racism. Kids can participate in a special “Conversation Starters: Let’s Talk About Differences” virtual roundtable on August 13, with experts from GSOC, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and Colorado Mountain College answering their questions about differences, race, and racism. Anyone who completes the activities included in the programming earns the “Diverse. Inclusive. Together” patch. Register before August 12. girlscoutsofcolorado.org
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
August 15 is National Check the Chip Day While the family is bustling through back-toschool preparations, take August 15 to check your furry family member’s microchip. One in three pets will get lost, but microchips greatly increase the chance of being reunited with your dog (52.2% are returned home) or cat (38.5% are returned home). Not sure if your pet is chipped? Here’s what to do: GET YOUR PET SCANNED. Your vet’s office can do a quick scan to look for a microchip. If your pet has a chip, don’t stop there. UPDATE THE INFO. The scan should tell you the microchip number and manufacturer. Log into the manufacturer’s database and check the registration information. Without your information connected to the chip, you won’t get the call if your pet has been found.
CHIP THE UNCHIPPED. If no microchip is found, your vet can inject one during a checkup—the chips are about the size of a piece of rice and the procedure is similar to a vaccine. Some animal shelters offer affordable microchipping services, too. Be sure to register your new chip and keep the information up to date. Microchips aren’t meant to replace a tag and collar, but they are an added measure to ensure that Fluffy or Spot make it home to snuggle their favorite humans.
Providing training, leadership and guidance to partners, and local Vroom program sites.
Your child’s brain grows the fastest from birth through age 5! Give your child a great start in life — and an even better future. Vroom Tips™ add learning to mealtime, bathtime, bedtime, or anytime!
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For more brain-building tips visit vroom.org, download the Vroom app, or text VROOM to 48258. 4/14/20 1:50 PM
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
13
Good to Know | Let’s Go
Bridge: Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. Train: Royal Gorge Railroad.
LET’S GO
GORGEous Views Await With the highest suspension bridge and zip line in the United States, The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is a favorite Colorado attraction for visitors and residents. By Courtney Drake-McDonough VIBE: Relaxed to thrilling DRIVE TIME: About two hours and 30 minutes south of downtown Denver. TIP: Bring sunscreen, water bottles, comfortable walking shoes, and a stroller for babies and toddlers. Picnics are allowed (no alcohol) in designated areas or you can purchase food on-site.
Stop for a family photo as you walk along the impressive 956-foot-tall Royal Gorge Bridge.
Visitors can choose to be as adventurous as they wish at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, with a wide range of activities that vary by season. MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DAY Arrive when the park opens for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures in the warm weather. Start by taking an Aerial Gondola ride across the Royal Gorge to the south side of the park. There, you can ride the Cloudscraper Zip Line; walk down the tree-lined path to the Royal Rush Skycoaster to swing 1200 feet over the edge of the gorge; or visit the Elk Park Amphitheater for live music Thursday to Sunday. The Tommy Knocker Children’s Playland gives kids a chance to climb, slide, and ride the Daisy’s Carousel.
Find the Colorado flag on the bridge.
the bridge Marvel at the stature of Route Railroad. aboard the Royal Gorge
TAKE A SELFIE ON THE BRIDGE Learn the history of the park at the Plaza Theater, then walk across the bridge and take in the views from 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Take a picture with your favorite state flag, all 50 of which are on the bridge. Back on the other side, don’t miss the Visitor Center and the water-powered Waterclock. For even more adventure, sign up in advance for the Via Ferrata, a guided climb that scales the walls of the gorge. royalgorgebridge.com RIDE THE RAILS Leaving the park, head 20 minutes east to Cañon City and ride the nearby Royal Gorge Route Railroad. Have your camera ready for lots of pictures and video as the train makes its way through the narrow, Royal Gorge Canyon. Opt for one of the open-air cars for unobstructed views up 1,000-foot-tall canyon walls. royalgorgeroute.com
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
Have your camera handy to capture stunning views of the gorge.
Take a spin on the car ousel in the Tommy Kn ock
er Children’s Playland.
ENROLLING NOW FOR 2020-21! Call to schedule a meeting & tour of the 22-acre campus.
Serving diverse learners, including those with dyslexia and ADHD, grades 1 to 12. denveracademy.org • 303-777-5161
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
15
Good to Know | Read to Me
by Darren Lebeuf; illustrated by Ashley Barron (Kids Can Press, 2019)
A young boy gathers the things he finds in his urban forest, brings them home and fills his room with art inspired by nature. Suggested by Denver Public Library children’s librarian Rachel Hartman, the story will encourage children to notice the wide range of textures and colors found outdoors.
READ TO ME
Books About Simple Outdoor Adventures Ruby’s Birds
by Mya Thompson; illustrated by Claudia Dávila (Cornell Lab Publishing Group, 2019)
Ruby lives in a New York City apartment building, but her neighbor introduces her to the world of bird watching just a short walk away in Central Park. She learns to stay still, listen, and watch for birds, then shows her family how they can do the same. The end of the book highlights facts about birds and how to identify them, including 14 types you’ll commonly spot around city parks.
Dusk Explorers
by Lindsay Leslie; illustrated by Ellen Rooney (Page Street Publishing Co., 2020)
When the sun begins to set, the neighborhood beckons to the tree climbers, toad hunters, curbside whisperers, and the hide-and-seek players. In this book, children will see the freedom and excitement of simple, unplugged, outdoor evenings that many parents will remember from their own childhoods.
By Lydia Rueger This summer may not have turned out the way you planned, but the slower pace does provide opportunities for more outdoor adventures than before. Even as kids gear up for the school year, read these books to soak in the possibilities of outdoor spaces.
This Land is Your Land
by Woody Guthrie; illustrated by Kathy Jakobsen (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2020)
Woody Guthrie’s folk song comes to life through a variety of painted landscapes and diverse people from all across the United States, from the redwood forest to the Gulf Stream waters. Readers will discover the complete lyrics, including some less familiar verses, as well as a biographical scrapbook of Guthrie’s life at the back of the book.
Hike
by Pete Oswald (Candlewick Press, 2020)
Recommended by Liesel Schmidt, children’s librarian at Denver Public Library, this almost wordless book depicts a hike shared by father and child. The duo sees the magic of the wilderness, overcomes challenges, and plays a small role in the survival of the forest. When they return home, father and child feel closer than ever.
Find more books to inspire outdoor adventures at ColoradoParent.com
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
You Are Home: An Ode to the National Parks Cycle City
by Alison Farrell (Chronicle Books, 2018)
Etta the Elephant takes a journey through a city with bikes of all kinds and experiences an amazing bicycle parade at the end of the day. Illustrations filled with tiny details make this book a fun seek-and-find adventure for observant kids.
by Evan Turk (Atheneum, 2019)
This book shares scenes from 23 of the 60 U.S. national parks, from Glacier Bay, Alaska, to Big Bend, Texas. Artwork by the illustrator (originally from Colorado) shows many animals who call the national parks home. The story sends the message that like the animals who live there, people from all backgrounds can also feel at home in national parks.
Dusk Explorers: Page Street Publishing Co. This Land: Little, Brown and Company. You Are Home: Simon & Schuster. Cycle City: Chronicle Books. Hike: Candlewick Press. Ruby’s Birds: The Cornell Lab Publishing Group. My Forest is Green: Kids Can Press.
My Forest Is Green
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Good to Know | Parenting 911
Illustration: Lauren Rebbeck.
PARENTING 911
Kids and Baby Talk THE PROBLEM: My elementaryschool age daughter constantly uses baby talk. It’s driving me crazy. I want her to present herself intelligently in the world and show her strength. Is there something I can do to make it stop? THE EXPERT: Lauren Ross, licensed clinical social worker and founder of Project Village.
Young Voices of Colorado
Be a part of something
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
THE SOLUTION: Baby talk can be like nails on a chalkboard for many parents—exasperating and super annoying! It’s important to take a step back, breathe deeply, and examine why this behavior might be happening. IS IT STRESS? For many kids, baby talk falls into the category of “regressive behaviors”— along with thumb-sucking, bedwetting, and tantrums—that might resurface when an individual is under stress. It’s possible that your child is engaging in the baby talk behavior due to feelings of stress and anxiety, so it’s important to create a safe space where she can explore these feelings and find more adaptive ways to cope. WHAT’S BEING MODELED? It may also be that your child uses baby talk because she has gotten some messaging about this behavior. Girls, in particular, are given so many cultural messages about how to look, talk, and generally be in the world. Explore what TV shows and social media she’s watching. Does she have female role-models in her media consumption who present themselves as babyish? Find opportunities to be curious and involved. Sit down with your daughter with a casual, “Whatcha watching?” Watch and
listen without judgment. Ask curious questions such as, “What do you think about that?” or “I wonder….?” In essence, you are guiding your daughter to be thoughtful and critical about her media consumption, and helping her develop her understanding of the diverse ways that girls (and women) show up in the world. CHANGE THE BEHAVIOR There are parenting strategies that may be helpful in addressing the baby-talk behavior. Start with teaching and defining expectations with your daughter. Explain that you’ve noticed this behavior, and ask open-ended questions to explore why she thinks this might be happening. Perhaps she might not have noticed this about herself, so this is an opportunity to raise her self-awareness. Let her know that you’ll be gently pointing this out to her when the behavior occurs, being careful to not make her feel ashamed but rather to be her coach and cheerleader to choose more age-appropriate ways of communicating. It might be helpful to role-play with her so that she can hear the contrast in how her voice sounds when using baby talk versus an age-appropriate tone of voice. You can have fun with this by making videos together, keeping it light-hearted while also teaching and practicing. Finally, be patient. Changing a deeply-embedded pattern of behavior takes time. As hard as it is, keep your reactions calm and supportive, and give your daughter lots of praise and positive reinforcement when she communicates in a way that is understandable and age-appropriate. —Courtney Drake-McDonough
START EARLY. START STRONG. LICENSED, QUALITY CHILD CARE IN UNCERTAIN TIMES Even in uncertain times, Colorado Shines is here to help you find licensed, quality child care, now or in the future.
SUPPORT LEARNING AT HOME Whether your child is at home or attending child care, our online resources are here to support you! Visit EarlyLearningCO.org for tips you can use to help your child grow.
To learn more and search for high quality programs, visit ColoradoShines.com or call 1.877.338.2273.
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Ideas and inspiration
for your next home project.
Photo by David Lauer
Elevated living in the Mile High City. Visit 5280Home.com or Zinio.com to subscribe.
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
19
Good to Know | Good Stuff
Toys That Celebrate Diversity Diversify your child’s toy bin with these toys and books that embrace differences. By Christina Cook
Explore different family dynamics with My Family Builders magnetic wooden blocks. The multiracial block set opens conversations about diversity, gender roles, and acceptance. $50 for a 32-piece set. myfamilybuilders.com
The gender-inclusive Creatable World dolls from Mattel let kids mix and match clothes, hair styles, and accessories to create their own unique characters. $16, walmart.com
Creative Minds Basket of Babies includes six multicultural babies with removable sack dresses and a plush basket to carry them around. $40, target.com
Learn about different countries with the I Never Forget a Face Matching and Memory Game from eeBoo, which features the faces of 24 children from around the world. $18, eeboo.com
The Jambo Book Club subscription service sends kids two carefully selected books a month that star children of color. Ages newborn to 13. $30 and up, jambobooks.com
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
BackgroundL Getty Images.
The Barbie Fashionistas doll line reflects the diverse people of the world including dolls with physical disabilities (a wheelchair and prosthetic leg). $10-$20, barbie.mattel.com
BACK TO SCHOOL EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT EDUCATION
Colorado Academy 3800 S. Pierce St. | 303-914-2513 admission@coloradoacademy.org coloradoacademy.org
AURORA CedarWood Christian Academy 11430 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora | 303-361-6456 roborny@cedarwoodchristian.org cedarwoodchristian.org Our mission is to teach and train young people to know and serve God by building a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, nurturing godly character and developing the mind with excellent academics. K-12. Founded in 1983. Fully accredited.
BOULDER Friends School PS-8th Boulder | 303-499-1999 ext 227 admissions@friendsschoolboulder.org friendsschoolboulder.org Voted “50 Best Private Elementary Schools in the US,” Friends School PS-8th offers academic excellence, creative expression, social responsibility. Small, collaborative classrooms, exceptional teachers, spacious campuses, close community. Accredited.
DENVER Children’s Garden Montessori School 444 Detroit St. | 303-322-0972 jboes@cgmontessori.com | cgmontessori.com Using Montessori philosophy as a foundation and Reggio Emilia philosophy as inspiration, we serve children ages 18 months to six years in a communityfocused environment.
For more than a century, CA has provided the most relevant, preparative, and highest value-added Pre-K-12 education possible. Our mission is to create curious, kind, courageous, and adventurous learners and leaders. Now taking applications for 2021-2022.
International School of Denver 7701 E. First Pl., Unit C | 303-340-3647 info@isdenver.org | isdenver.org
Multicultural, multilingual immersion school serving students age three to grade eight through accredited, authentic French, Spanish, and Chinese curricula. We offer a capstone International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme for grades six through eight.
Montessori Children’s House of Denver Mayfair, Stapleton, and Park Hill campuses 303-322-8324 directorofadmissions@mchdenver.org mchdenver.org MCHD is a private Montessori school for preschool through middle school students. We help children develop a strong academic foundation, self and community awareness, and a love of learning. MCHD is not just a school, it’s an investment in your child’s future.
Ricks Center for Gifted Children 2040 S. York St. | 303-871-3715 ricksctr@du.edu | du.edu/ricks
Located on the University of Denver campus, Ricks Center is a school, preschool to eighth grade, dedicated to gifted learners. Flexible, differentiated
curriculum designed around the whole child. Teachers who know, understand, and care deeply about gifted education and each individual student. Low student to teacher ratio.
ENGLEWOOD First Plymouth Learning Center 3501 S. Colorado Blvd., Englewood 303-762-9355 fplcdirector@firstplymouthchurch.org | fplc.org
We proudly serve children 15 months to five years of age. We have many schedule options for the school year. Small class sizes create a strong community at FPLC. We offer before and after school care. We look forward to meeting you!
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS New Horizon Academy Preschool and Early Education Multiple Denver area locations newhorizonacademy.net New Horizon Academy provides high-quality care and education to young children. While focusing on developing a healthy sense of self in each child, we strive to provide your child with the necessary skills to succeed not only in school but also in life.
Tell Colorado Parent readers about your school or classes! For more information, contact sales@coloradoparent.com.
It isn’t too late to
MAKE A CHANGE.
We are still accepting applications for 2020-2021.
We are a diverse Pre-K – 8th grade international community—in Denver. LEARN MORE AT ISDENVER.ORG
Financial aid available.
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL of DENVER
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
21
BACK TO SCHOOL
EDUCATION &
ENRICHMENT (continued from page 21)
LITTLETON Aspen Academy 5859 S. University Blvd. 303-346-3500 admissions@aspenacademy.org aspenacademy.org
Aspen Academy is a Pre-K through 8th grade independent school that focuses on three primary areas: nextgeneration education, leadership and entrepreneurship development, and community strength and service.
ENRICHMENT ART artSPARK Creative Studio 2630 W. Belleview Ave., Ste 160 303-795-7897 info@artsparkcreative.com artsparkcreative.com
think, create, innovate!
A unique art making and sewing space for ages one to adult. artSPARK teaches you to think and work like artists through techniques, concepts, process, and play, using your own Student/Faculty Ratio 9:1 ideas. Purchase themed playdough Enrollment 965 kits and enroll in fallPreK–12 programming.
think, create, innovate! COOKING
A PreK-12 independent school with an exceptional campus community
WE INSPIRE
WE INSPIRE critical thinking and
WE TEACH
critical thinking creativity with and creativity with Innovative Curricula Innovative Curricula
courage, kindness, and empathy through Character Education
WE TEACH
courage, kindness, and
empathy through WE DEVELOP
Character Education leadership and resilience through Experiential Ed and Outdoor Trips
(303) 914-2513
Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios 2030 E. County LineWE Rd.,INSTILL Highlands Ranch motivation and 720-656-9405
to strengthen their mind and body through taekwondo, tang soo do, and hapkido, striving for excellence. We provide individualized attention through understanding student needs and encouraging them to attain their best.
SINGING Young Voices of Colorado 99 Inverness Drive E, Ste. 150, Englewood | 303-797-7464 margie@youngvoices.org youngvoices.org
Want to be a part of something AMAZING? YVC offers age appropriate choirs where children sing and learn with peers in a meaningful way. Each group provides skill development in vocal technique, music theory, and choral artistry. Be AMAZING: Join YVC!
STEM Code Ninjas Arvada, Broomfield, Denver, Highlands Ranch, Louisville, and Parker | codeninjas.com
Code Ninjas teaches kids ages seven to 14 to code by building video games and robotics. Students advance from white to black on the path to coding enlightenment. Programs include year-round drop-ins, weeklong camps, birthdays, parents’ night out, and more.
SWIMMING
highlandsranch@flourpowerstudios.com self-discipline through FlourPowerStudios.com/highlandsranch the Talent of Our weekly classes offer a hands-on Ocean First kids cooking experienceour andTeachers recipes 3015 Bluff St. | 303-444-7234 to try at home. Your Lil’ Chef will gain swim@oceanfirst.blue skills that are designed to appeal to shopoceanfirst.blue/swim the abilities of most children. Tuition Offering small group size summer includes recipe handouts to take camps. With our on-site location in home and all supplies. North Boulder and a satellite site up Flagstaff Road, you can choose from a number of different marine science teamwork and initiative or nature based camps for the kids or throughATAFMA the breadth (Family Martial Arts) the whole family!
WE PROMOTE
MARTIAL ARTS
and depth 4510 of S.our Reservoir Rd, #A, Aurora 303-690-0560 | info@atafma.com Arts and atafma.com Athletics Programs
VIRTUAL
Traditional Martial Arts classes for Renaissance Adventures ages four and up. We focus on Colorado | 303-786-9216 teaching discipline and respect in a info@renaissanceadventures.com 10 Bus Routes serving 70 zip codes fun, active environment. has 3. renaissanceadventures.com Visit coloradoacademy.org to learn more about CA. Admission Parent Preview October 25 andATAFMA November Families from all backgrounds, cultures, been serving the Aurora/Centennial Afterschool & holiday camp faiths and resources are welcome at CA area for 25 years. adventures online for ages eight to 17. Our Adventure Quest & Dungeon Visit coloradoacademy.org Tiger Kim’s Academy Delvers RPG programs are creative or call 303–914–2513 to learn more Taekwondo & Tang Soo Do and empowering, with opportunities 1480 Steele St., Denver for social engagement while questing 303-388-1408 | tigerkim.com through mythical lands. Try a free Application Portal Opens September 1st! trial intro class! Our mission is to inspire each member Enrollment 1,005 Student/Faculty Ratio 9:1
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
N OW I S T H E T I M E T O
FIND A PRESCHOOL AND ENROLL YOUR 4-YEAR-OLD
The Denver Preschool Program offers tools to help you find a preschool that best meets your needs. We also provide tuition support to help lower your monthly costs at more than 250 quality programs.
Get started today at
DENVERPRESCHOOL.COM
First Plymouth Learning Center…
SUMMER CAMPS Small group sizes! • Marine Science • Outdoor Family Experiences • Education in Nature www.shopoceanfirst.blue/swim
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
Where your child is seen, heard, known, and loved— just the way they are!
Now enrolling ages 15mo. - 5 years. Flexible options available. Want to learn more about us? Check out our website fplc.org and then give us a call for a tour where you will learn more about our wonderful community. Please call Noanie Geistert, FPLC Director, at 303-762-9355. Everybody, welcome. Seriously. Everybody.
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
23
Fun & Activities
Family on couch: Getty Images. Kristen Schaal: Bradley Meinz. Ann Lincoln: Ann Lincoln.
Make ‘Em Laugh Delight the little ones in your life with these pointers from local funny people. By Sarah Protzman Howlett
S
o-called dad jokes seem here to stay, but when’s the last time one of them actually made your kid LOL? As our nation celebrates National Tell a Joke Day on August 16, our kids deserve big belly laughs now more than ever. Here are some tricks to steal from the pros. KRISTEN SCHAAL NYC-based comic actress (30 Rock, Flight of the Conchords, The Daily Show, Story Pirates) and Colorado native Drawing on your work with the Story Pirates podcast, are there certain themes, topics, gags that kids universally find funny? Seems like doing stuff the wrong way is pretty solid. Kids are being taught how to behave and what the rules are, so when a clown figure gets it wrong, like
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
a Mr. Noodle, or Charlie Chaplin, it’s funny to see them struggle. What would you say to parents who want to be funnier? If you have the ability to be unapologetically goofy, that’s a plus. But that’s not everybody’s comfort zone. If your kid is laughing, laugh with them. Kids are really smart, so if something makes you laugh, share it with them. You’re a mom to a toddler now. What does she find funny? Right now I am doing all the voices of her toys, and that’s making her laugh and also giving her a lot of friends during quarantine. It’s also really tiring! But every time she thrusts a toy in my hands and asks me to make it talk, I realize I give that toy a lot more energy and enthusiasm than what I’m feeling. So it’s been helpful for both of us.
ANN LINCOLN Denver-based kids magician, juggler, and comedian annlincoln.com What makes a great joke or gag, as far as kids are concerned? Something that’s unexpected from an adult. Fake frustration can be hilarious—I’ve been known to have an argument with one of my juggling clubs. Break a rule or do something taboo, or have a bigger, more emotional reaction to a situation than they are used to seeing from an adult. Don’t just repeat a bunch of “kid jokes.” Knock, knock. Who’s there? Nobody cares! How does a young person’s sense of humor tend to change? Two- to six-year-olds will laugh more readily at funny noises or making the same mistake over and
Around Town Fun & Activities
Jeff & Paige : Jeff Kagan. Dad with children: Getty Images.
At-Home Hunt for Money Smarts! over, like bonking yourself on the head. Preteens and teens like humor but can be shy about laughing in front of peers. I hear them repeating my jokes to each other after shows, so I know they were laughing on the inside. JEFF KAGAN Boulder-based performer of science and nature songs and skits for kids. jeffandpaige.org How can parents be funnier for their kids, their nieces and nephews, their kids’ friends and so forth? Use a prop or a mutually visible inanimate object. Grab a stone, make a monologue about wishing it had feet. Have a conversation with a cereal bowl. Ask it if it needs a towel after the kid pours milk. Ask the sun if it’s seen the kid’s missing baseball. You’re parents to two kids now. What have you noticed about their senses of humor? Our baby likes when things disappear and then reappear in a different place. Our five-year-old likes experimenting with wordplay and creating his own, nonsensical jokes. But physical humor spans the age ranges. When’s a time you really bombed in front of kids, and what did you learn? Pretty much every show before [my wife] Paige joined the band. Preschool-aged kids are not dazzled by witty, educational lyrics and
TOYS/GAMES THAT GIVE KIDS THE GIGGLES • Stretch Armstrong • Mad Libs Junior • Google some tongue twisters • Watch Mr. Bean videos on YouTube • Bop It electronic game • Rory’s Story Cubes • Shel Silverstein poems
catchy guitar rhythms. The first few years were full of performances that ended with all the kids heading to the adjacent playground. Or stealing my props. Or punches to the groin—not out of malice but just out of eye-level curiosity.
Piggy Banks Scavenger Hunt
Help your child gain money smarts by participating in this virtual scavenger hunt!
Youth complete tasks using common household items and an internet-connected computer, tablet, or phone.
Up to $50 cash prize!
Start your search: yacenter.org
Can you think of a moment where a funny person you admire shared something that has really stuck with you or made you better? That would undoubtedly be my Member FDIC dad, Dave Kagan. He is the master Prizes available while supplies last. of cracking an average joke (i.e. You can go swimming, but you can’t get wet. I dreamed I was eating a giant marshmallow and when I woke up my pillow was gone! Did you get a Piggy Banks 3.5x4.75.indd 1 6/8/20 haircut today? Just one hair?) and repeating it over and over again for three to four decades. I think kids Come see how fun, effective, and safe find the repetition both amusing ABA THERAPY can lead to a brighter future and comfortable. And I am shocked for your child. daily by how much of my father’s sub-par humor comes out in my Are you ready to get back to a normal routine? So are we. That’s why we’re excited to own parenting experience. announce our new Boulder Hive is now open and serving Front Range families – both in person and through Telehealth services. Sarah Protzman Howlett is a As a center of excellence for the proven science of ABA therapy, we’re taking every Boulder-based journalist and editor precaution to create a safe and healthy learning environment. So underneath our masks whose work has appeared in national, you’ll find smiling faces eager to help your child reach their full potential. local, and trade magazines. Our ABA therapy services are highly individualized for each child’s needs and offer a path to success no matter age or ability. Learn more at behaviorexchamge.com.
OUR doors are now open!
Call us today to schedule an appointment! Questions or concerns? Email us!
Telehealth Hotline
Our Telehealth Services are available and covered by insurance.
469.353.6634
Monday-Saturday. 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM MST
Visit The Behavior Exchange today and see how we can help.
972.312.8733
intake@behaviorexchange.com
behaviorexchange.com
Boulder, CO | Plano & Frisco, TX
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
25
6:19 PM
Family Food
Catherine McCord: Lauri Levenfeld. Smoothie, muffin, cereal: Gerry Speirs.
Quick Breakfasts for Busy Mornings These four kid-approved recipes will help you crush your back-to-school breakfast game. By Kara Thompson
P
arents know all too well that school mornings can be...ummm...hectic, stressful, exhausting. As if getting your kids out of bed and dressed for the day isn’t a big enough battle, convincing them to eat a well-balanced breakfast (or any breakfast!) at 7 a.m. is a whole other challenge—one that most moms and dads just don’t have the energy to deal with. To help tackle this challenge, we enlisted Catherine McCord, the blogger behind Weelicious and a mom of three. McCord’s breakfast recipes hit all of the requirements for busy parents who want to feed their kids healthy meals: They’re easy to make, require few ingredients, and can double as snacks. Plus, McCord’s kids have given each recipe their seal of approval. School mornings just got a little bit easier.
CRUNCHY GRANOLA BITES
A regular crowd-pleaser, these granola bites are a hit with kids because they can be customized with different toppings. Make them in batches, then
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let your little ones fill them with berries, yogurt, or peanut butter. Freeze what’s uneaten for up to four months. Before serving, remove them from your freezer and allow the bars to come to room temperature—about 10 to 15 minutes.
YOU WILL NEED: 2 cups old fashioned oats
4. As soon as you remove the granola bites from the oven, use a spoon to gently press the center down to form a cup. Allow to cool completely before removing from muffin tins. 5. Top granola bites with 1 to 2 tablespoons of greek yogurt and fresh fruit, or any topping of your choice.
¹�3 cup unsweetened coconut flakes THESE RECIPES ARE NUTRITIONIST APPROVED, TOO! Sara Peternell, a board certified holistic nutritionist, co-author of Little Foodie, and a mom of two from Denver, shares the nutritional punch behind each of McCord’s recipes.
2 tablespoons hemp seeds 5 tablespoons liquid coconut oil ¼ cup honey ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon vanilla extract ½ cup vanilla greek yogurt 1 cup mixed fresh fruit DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. 2. Place the first seven ingredients in a large bowl and stir to thoroughly combine. 3. Place three tablespoons of the mixture into greased muffin tins (¾ of the way full) and bake for 18 minutes, or until golden.
◊
“I like this recipe because it’s well-balanced with carbs, fat, and protein. A well-balanced breakfast is important because it means that a child is getting enough complex carbohydrates for energy, protein for blood sugar regulation and muscle strength, and enough healthy fats to keep them satisfied throughout the morning. If you want to limit the added sugar, swap the vanilla yogurt for plain yogurt.” —Sara Peternell
◊
Family Food
CEREAL BARS
These tasty breakfast bars are made with only five ingredients. Any cereal will do in the recipe, but McCord says her kids love it when she uses a mixture of cereals; it adds an interesting texture to the bars. For an extra touch, wrap bars individually with parchment paper, then tie them with string or ribbon before storing them in a plastic container or placing them in zippered sandwich bags. If you pack one in your child’s lunchbox, slip a note in between the paper and string to let them know you’re thinking of them throughout the school day. McCord says that when her kids eventually head back to school, these cereal bars will be making an appearance on the breakfast table as well as in their lunch boxes.
CARROT APPLE COCONUT MUFFINS
McCord says parents often ask her how they can sneak some veggies into their child’s meals. Her response: “Try not to sneak!” Exposing kids to new foods, that are also good for them, in a positive way (or in this case, in a tasty recipe) can be helpful in their learning to love them. These muffins are easy to eat on the go and work well for snack time.
YOU WILL NEED: 1½ cups all purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon kosher salt
YOU WILL NEED: ½ cup honey
½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes 2 carrots, peeled and grated (about 1 cup)
½ cup smooth peanut butter (or any nut or seed butter)
1 apple, peeled and grated, about ½ cup (gala, fuji, and pink lady are good choices)
1 tablespoon coconut oil
2 large eggs
3½ cups cereal of choice 1 cup old fashioned rolled oats* DIRECTIONS:
1. Place the first three ingredients in a pot over low heat and stir until thoroughly combined and warmed through, about two minutes. 2. Place the cereal and oats in a large bowl and stir to combine. 3. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the cereal and stir to coat the dry ingredients.
YOU WILL NEED: 1½ cups fresh spinach ¼ cup frozen pineapple
4. Line a 9 x 9 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Scoop the mixture into the pan, then gently press down.
½ cup frozen mango 1 large banana 1 cup orange juice
5. Freeze the mixture for at least 30 minutes. 6. Move the solidified mixture from the pan to a cutting board, and use a serrated knife to cut into bars. *Oats can be toasted in a 350 degree oven for 10 to 15 minutes for a more “toasty” flavor, if desired.
◊
“Choose cereals that aren’t too sweet or sugary, like Cheerios, which are also glutenfree. Cereals that are high in fiber or protein are also good choices since they will help keep kids full until lunch.” —Sara Peternell
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
BRIGHT GREEN SMOOTHIE
This refreshing smoothie from McCord’s cookbook, The Smoothie Project, blends up quickly and packs in much-needed nutrition for growing kids. Fill mason jars with the ingredients ahead of time and store them in your refrigerator. Then, in the morning, all that’s left to do is dump the mix into your blender and press start.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend on high until smooth and creamy.
◊
“I make a similar smoothie for my kids, too! I love that this recipe includes spinach because it’s a great source of iron, calcium, magnesium, and folate. These nutrients are essential for children’s growth and development, especially their brains.” —Sara Peternell
¹�3 cup milk ¼ cup vegetable or canola oil ½ cup honey DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. Combine the first seven ingredients in a bowl. 3. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. 4. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet and stir to combine. 5. Place 1 tablespoon of batter into greased mini muffin tins. 6. Bake for 15 minutes, then serve.
◊
“I love the use of apples and carrots in this recipe. Kids who consume apples and carrots regularly tend to have healthier immune and digestive systems, fewer colds and illnesses and belly pain, and also have vibrant skin, hair, and eyes. To make this recipe even healthier, use coconut or avocado oil instead of vegetable or canola oil, which are both highly processed. Sub either option in a 1:1 ratio.” —Sara Peternell
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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SUCCESS Clever tips and tricks for a flawlessly organized school year. By Kara Thompson
W
ith so many unknowns related to the new school year, one thing you can have a little more control over is your child’s at-home study spot. A distraction-free homework space and a set school week routine are important whether your child is going into the classroom or learning from home. While different organizational strategies work for different families, here are a few universal ways you can keep your child (and yourself!) on track this school year.
CREATE A COZY HOMEWORK SPACE Make Room on Their Desk
If your child typically does homework at a desk, keep it clear of clutter. Excess papers, books, or decorative items on the desk can make it difficult to spread out their assignments. Not to mention the mental distractions that come from a cluttered workspace. If you’re in the market for a new desk or study
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
table this school year, opt for something that’s long and rectangular. That shape offers more surface space than circular choices. Another thing to keep in mind is desk location. If your student is doing their homework on tablets or laptops, make sure your child’s desk is within reach of an outlet for hassle-free charging.
Opener, boy at desk: Getty Images.
SET YOURSELF UP FOR SCHOOL YEAR
Choose a Comfy Chair
Goodbye hard dining room chair! There are unlimited seating options these days for little learners. Katie Zeiner, a third grade teacher from Colorado, suggests giving kids choices when it comes to homework seating. In her classroom, students can sit on a wobble stool, a yoga ball on wheels, a regular chair, or a couch. “As long as students are given expectations, having the choice of seating gives them some flexibility to learn how they work and gives them some responsibility.” When shopping for a chair for your child, remember that it’s OK if their learning space changes day to day. Just like many of us move around in an office, your child might prefer a regular chair one day and their bedroom floor the next. These three picks accommodate different seating preferences without becoming an interior design eyesore.
Be Mindful of Lighting
Good lighting in a homework space can encourage better focus and productivity. Bersagel-Briese points out that one of the best lighting options for kids is natural sunlight, which tends to help them feel more alert and awake. “If your child’s desk can be near a window, that would be ideal, but if that’s not possible, pay attention to the typical lighting in the room during the time of day your child will most likely be working,” she says. If the lighting seems dim or if you notice that your child is squinting while reading, an easy fix
Illustrations: Getty Images.
Limit Distractions
While some stop and go during homework is inevitable, set your child up for success by keeping their workspace free of distractions. “Just like at school, toys shouldn’t be on their desk,” says Zeiner. “Keep it simple with just a pencil or back-up tablet or laptop, the assignment they’re working on, scratch paper if necessary, and water.” To encourage your child to stay focused, give them breaks to look forward to. Try scheduling a few stretching breaks so they can stand up and move around in between assignments. Give them a choice of three different stretches and do them together whenever possible. If you aren’t home during your child’s homework time, remind them to take breaks by texting them (or their caregiver) links to stretching videos or instructions.
Something Supportive
This classic desk chair is ideal for kids who need something with good back support. Ahna Bersagel-Briese, a kindergarten teacher in the Denver area, says a sturdy chair is a good option for some younger kids since it will stay put as they change positions. $90, wayfair.com
Interactive Pick
Zeiner says that some of her students like to move their bodies while they work, and that’s totally OK. This wobble stool allows kids to rock back and forth as they sit. Plus, you can adjust the seat height by up to six inches when your little one hits a growth spurt. $80, target.com
is to add a lamp. Bersagel-Briese recommends checking in with your child and asking how their current setup is working for them before making any changes. If they feel like there’s room for improvement, suggest a couple of lamp options for them to choose from. Here are two finds that set your child up for their own lightbulb moment.
Double Duty
Keep pencils, pens, and sticky notes readily available for students in the base of this cheerful lamp.
Cozy Choice
If your child prefers to switch between sitting and standing, this chair is easy to roll away when not in use. Featuring a soft, upholstered seat cushion that comes in a variety of fun prints, kids will love having some say in the design. $199, potterybarnkids.com
Other perks include five color options and an impressive price point. $15, target.com
Touch Table Lamp
This modern pick is perfect for more mature students who have their eyes on multiple papers at once. When your tween is ready to switch the light on or off, they can simply touch anywhere on the lamp. $99, crateandbarrel.com
Consider Other Study Spots
No two learners are the same, and kids can benefit from different learning environments. If your child doesn’t have or want a designated homework space, offer suggestions for other spots they might like to work. “Kids are a lot less likely to push back when it comes to schoolwork if they have some choice in things,” says Zeiner. ”If that’s as simple as where they sit to work for that day, so be it.” Bersagel-Briese suggests asking your child to think about where they like to learn or where they feel the most focused while at school, then imitating that at home. Whether it’s a standing desk or a seat at the kitchen counter, monitor your child’s productivity in the spot they choose, then make changes if necessary.
Desk-Free Homework Spots Front porch Kitchen counter Bedroom floor On the couch In the backyard Dining room table Hammock (perfect for reading!)
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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KEEP THINGS ORGANIZED Many students still have a flood of folders and papers coming home from school each day, and even remote learners have some assignments to print out. Keep things organized with these simple solutions.
Sort Through Papers Daily
One easy way to keep schoolwork under control is to do a daily backpack check. At the end of each day, empty out your child’s backpack together and sort through any paperwork so nothing gets overlooked. “Papers can get easily lost in backpacks, so it’s a good idea to help your child go through their backpack each night,” says Bersagel-Briese. If your child is doing remote learning, follow this same practice by going through their binder or folders, or by reading through the most recent teacher email with important links.
Decide What to Keep
Minimize clutter by letting go of papers that your child no longer needs. Storing every test, assignment, and flyer that comes back from school will quickly add up and create a mountain of paperwork—one you’ll eventually dread going through. “There isn’t a big reason to hang on to papers that have been graded or checked. Just be sure to go over your child’s work with them before you recycle it so they know what they can do differently next time to improve,” Bersagel-Briese suggests.
If your child spent a lot of time writing a story or working on a project or report, that might be worth keeping at least through the school year.
Create a Filing System
Coming up with an organizational system that works for you and your family will likely entail some trial and error. Bersagel-Briese recommends starting out small, by placing all work that needs to be returned to school in a letter tray on the kitchen counter or your child’s desk. For those who want to create even more structure, try organizing paperwork in an expanding file organizer, or binder. If you have more than one child, designate one color-coded file for each of them. Bersagel-Briese says creating these three folder or tab categories can be handy: Important school year info, work that needs to be returned, and work you want to save (Label each tab “Info,” “Return,” and “Save”). Try one of these methods for a month or so, then make tweaks. It takes a while for both kids and adults to create good habits, so give it some time, but accept that it’s okay to make changes.
Wire Letter Tray. $11, target.com
Metal Desk Organizer. $10, staples.com
Reclaim Control of Supplies
To keep your child’s desk or study space from turning into complete chaos, Zeiner suggests designating one bin for at-home school supplies. “While not all kids will want to organize their supplies, it’s important to have the expectation that at the end of their work time, supplies go away, just like at school,” she says. A desk drawer works just as well, if that’s where your child tends to sit, but keep in mind that sometimes when things are out of sight, they can get even more unorganized. Make an effort to check your child’s drawer or supply bin periodically (or whenever your jam-packed schedule allows) to ensure everything is in its proper place.
STAY ON TRACK A strong organizational start can quickly crumble into a disheveled mess as the school year ramps up. If you feel like you’re losing control over your schedule—and you’re not an app aficionado—keep track of deadlines, activities, and appointments with these visual calendars.
Daily Planner
This daily planner is small enough to toss in your purse and take on the go. A designated spot at the top of each page allows you to write down goals for the week ahead. $19, target.com
Desk Pad Calendar Acrylic Calendar
Write on this acrylic find with dry-erase markers and you’ll never have to buy a yearly calendar again. Each day gives you enough room to jot down one to two reminders, creating a spot to keep track of big-picture events like birthdays or soccer games. $134, wayfair.com
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
Ideal for working parents, this calendar easily sits on top of your desk. Write down any events and reminders to see what’s coming up with just a quick glance. $18, staples.com
PACK YOUR BAG!
Three quality backpacks that will keep school supplies in order.
Homework spaces for any age
Best Starter Wanderwild, founded by two Highlands Ranch moms, designed their Explorer backpack specifically for students in pre-K through fifth grade. Kids can choose from a number of designs, including unicorns, dinos, and aviator camo (shown) and can have it personalized with their initials or name. $50, wanderwild.com
UnfinishedFurnitureColorado.com
5095 W 120th Ave Broomfield, Colorado (303) 443-8229
Something Durable A sturdy backpack is a must for older students who carry heavy textbooks or laptops around. This pick is made with durable canvas and has a flat base that keeps the backpack standing upright. $112, madelineandcompany.com
We are committed to the philosophy that learning occurs across a lifetime. Behavioral Learning Center (BLC) improves socially significant skills for individuals living with developmental challenges. BLC programs are designed for individuals of all ages diagnosed with autism, developmental disabilities, or any other social delays/challenges.
Our Services
Budget-Friendly Pick With padded straps, a front zipper pouch, and two water bottle pockets, this printed ‘pack is a no-brainer for little learners. There’s even a designated tablet sleeve for kids who have tech to tote back and forth from the classroom. $29, staples.com
Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Parent Education Social Skills Groups
For more information on our services, contact us at: (720) 330-2827 | oadenver@blcca.com
Check us out on social media!
www.BLCCA.com
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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2020 Family Favorites
Deciding how to approach our annual Family Favorites list this year has been a challenge. We had to ask, will your favorite family-friendly businesses even be around when we’ve come out of this pandemic? In the end, we decided that it was important to honor the businesses, attractions, and services that families voted for in the fresh, pre-pandemic days of 2020, no matter what the rest of the year brings. So, we will play the optimists. We will look forward to the days when we can pop into that favorite bakery for a cupcake, send the kids (worry-free) to camp, and touch all of the buttons at a favorite museum again. Here are the 2020 Family Favorites, voted on by you the reader. Now, more than ever, it’s important to show them some love. Family Fun Education Camps & Lessons Food & Drink
46 48 52
Shop & Services Health & Wellness Sports & Fitness
Opener illustrations: Getty Images.
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August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Family Fun
All year round, Colorado families stay active on the trails, slopes, and parks under sunny Rocky Mountain skies. Even on days when the clouds roll in or temperatures drop, incredible indoor spaces get families playing and learning together. Here are the places parents voted as top-tier destinations for delight in our state.
TOP THREE
APEX Center Great Wolf Lodge, Colorado Springs Water World THE WINNER
Water World Chill or go for thrills. Families can test out the water coaster or float down a lazy river at this long-time summer favorite. Season pass deals include food and drink discounts and unlimited visits. Bash by the Bay concerts and Happy Hours at the Shores elevate visits to full events. waterworldcolorado.com
Winter Resort for Families TOP THREE
Breckenridge Ski Resort Snow Mountain Ranch Winter Park Resort THE WINNER
Families experience everything from ancient fossils to space travel at DMNS.
Museum for Families TOP THREE
Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus Denver Museum of Nature & Science History Colorado Center THE WINNER
Denver Museum of Nature & Science Exhibitions filled with everything from ancient wisdom to hyper-modern explorations invite curious minds to DMNS. Expedition Health visitors participate in scientific studies, while IMAX 3D films draw crowds for immersive experiences. Fans of the 15-year-old Space Odyssey can look forward to a revamp in fall 2020. dmns.org
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
Breckenridge Ski Resort Visitors celebrated an extra snowy season in early 2020, joining the “FebruBURIED” movement at Breckenridge Ski Resort. Lining up for a great send down the slopes gets even easier with an Epic Pass that includes discounts on food, lodging, and rentals. Families don’t have to swoosh down the slopes to appreciate winter in Breck with activities like the GoldRunner Alpine Coaster and ice skating. breckenridge.com
Summer Mountain Getaway TOP THREE
Glenwood Springs Peek-A-Blue Cabin, Breckenridge YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park THE WINNER
YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park This picturesque complex in the mountains offers an abundance of beauty to behold. Take a hike in Rocky Mountain National Park, watch elk bask in the sun-drenched valley, stargaze, and play practically any sport you want. Don’t miss special events like SummerFest concerts and the Fourth of July parade. ymcarockies.org
Children and rams: © Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Illustrations, background: Getty Images.
Water Park or Swim Center
Lair 'O' the Bear: Jefferson County Open Space. Breckenridge: Breckenridge Tourism Office/ Andrew Maguire.
Family Fun
Indoor Activity Space TOP THREE
Kids Wonder Markey Escape Rooms Ninja Nation THE WINNER
Kids Wonder Open 360 days a year, Kids Wonder in Centennial (near University Boulevard and Dry Creek Road) has families covered for simply wonderful play. Ideal for a school break or a weekend afternoon, the bounce castle, theater stage, and Lil’ Town await what kids’ imaginations will create. Don’t forget your socks! kidswonder.net
Parent-Tot Activity TOP THREE
Kids Wonder Rocky Mountain Aardvarks Second Star to the Right Storytime THE WINNER
Family Day Trip TOP THREE
Breckenridge Carousel of Happiness, Nederland Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs THE WINNER
Breckenridge Stroll down Historic Main Street Breckenridge to
In just a day in Breckenridge, families can zipline over a ski run, savor delicious meals, fish, bike, or raft, and that's only the beginning. find locally produced goods, drive Boreas Pass to see fall colors, or amp up the energy at Breck’s sky-high adventure park. Activities in this town keep getting better with each turn of the seasons. gobreck.com
Rocky Mountain Aardvarks This rocking mix of singing, dancing, storytelling, and jam sessions is bonding for the whole family and something kids look forward to each session. The vibe is funky and educational, featuring original songs about being a kid and getting to know the world. Take tunes on the go with the Aardvark CD, perfect for car trips. rockymtnaardvarks.com
Hike or Bike Trail with Kids TOP THREE
Cherry Creek Bike Trail Lair o' the Bear Park Mount Falcon Park THE WINNER
Lair o’ the Bear Park Just 30 minutes from downtown Denver, this 300plus acre park gives families lots to enjoy on Colorado’s sunny days. Hike, bike, ride a horse, walk the dog, or get a fish on the line. Find a good time to visit the highly trafficked park with the Lot Spot app, and be sure to carry out what you bring in. jeffco.us A mountain experience within a short drive, Lair o' the Bear Park attracts families in need of a reset.
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Family Fun
Gaylord Rockies Resort and Spa: Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center.
ATTN: Denverites Stay in the know on all things Denver business. SIGN UP TODAY for our biweekly roundup of the deals, news, and trends shaping the Front Range economy.
Gaylord Rockies Resort near DIA is an ideal family staycation spot.
Colorado Resort or Hotel for Families TOP THREE
Gaylord Rockies Resort and Spa Great Wolf Lodge, Colorado Springs YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park THE WINNER
Gaylord Rockies Resort and Spa Discover rustic and cozy ambiance with an adventurous twist at this resort with proximity to DIA. Immerse the family in eight restaurants, the Arapahoe Springs indoor/outdoor water complex, and the Relache Spa. Family-friendly seasonal events include the glacial ICE! exhibit, a Santa village, and ice tubing on the property over the holidays. marriott.com
SUBSCRIBE for FREE 5280.COM/NEWSLETTERS
Family Fair or Festival TOP THREE
Chatfield Pumpkin Festival Renaissance Festival A Taste of Colorado THE WINNER
Chatfield Pumpkin Festival Families love rolling wagons and strollers around this 10-acre pumpkin patch and fair. Though the 2020 Pumpkin Festival has been canceled due to COVID-19, Chatfield Farms' annual Corn Maze is still scheduled to take place and will include pumpkins available for purchase. botanicgardens.org
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
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This summer, Nature Connects®, Art with LEGO® Bricks returns to Denver Zoo with inspiring creations by Artist Sean Kenney. Don’t miss this award-winning traveling exhibit, which connects you to the world’s vanishing species with larger-than-life plant and animal sculptures made entirely of over 1 million LEGO bricks.
July 17–November 1 Tickets at DenverZoo.org
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Education
A good education is both opportunity and choice. Colorado boasts many quality classroom experiences for specialized learning and care, from cradle to graduation. Take it from fellow parents, these are some of the educational services our readers recommend the most.
TOP THREE
Escuela de Guadalupe Global Village Academy International School of Denver THE WINNER
Global Village Academy Students receiving a Global Village education learn core content in English and their choice of Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Russian, or French, through its language immersion programs. Instructors hail from all over the world and teach kids how to engage ideas in cross-cultural perspectives. gvaschools.org
Tutor or Academic Enrichment Program TOP THREE
Hopkins Education Services Silicon STEM Academy Wash Park Tutoring THE WINNER
Hopkins Education Services Hopkins provides various levels of tutoring, low-stress educational assessments, and post-secondary transition planning for kids with all abilities. Beyond individual services, it’s a supportive and social community helping families make comprehensive plans for long-term development. hopkinseducationservices.com
Special Needs Resource or Organization TOP THREE
Hopkins Education Services Laradon TACT (Teaching the Autism Community Trades) THE WINNER
TACT (Teaching the Autism Community Trades) TACT taps into kids’ abilities and interests in technical skills from photography to welding. The goal is not simply to gain employment for more people with autism, but to gain fulfilling work for students. Parents and kids love the opportunities TACT provides beyond anything offered in most public schools, and the adaptive and comfortable setting. buildwithtact.org
Preschool TOP THREE
Cadence Academy Denver Christian School Preschool The Goddard School THE WINNER
Denver Christian School Preschool Early childhood education at Denver Christian starts with a foundation of play and each day adds social-emotional skills, such as conflict resolution and creative thinking. Music, Bible readings, and a multicultural unit expand kids’ understanding of creation. Parents notice the staff’s dedication and care for each unique child. denverchristian.org
Childcare Center (by single location) TOP THREE
Cadence Academy Preschool, Broomfield Denver Christian School Preschool The Goddard School Broomfield THE WINNER
Cadence Academy Preschool, Broomfield Kids ages six weeks to 12 years enjoy special care and individualized educational programs at this 10,000-square-foot center. Children look forward to compassionate teachers, welcoming classrooms, and plenty of space to play. Parents with varying schedules can choose from full-time, part-time, and before/after school arrangements. cadence-academy.com/schools/broomfield-co-preschool/ cadence-academy.com/schools/broomfield-co-preschool/
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
Private School TOP THREE
Denver Academy Denver Christian School Montessori Academy of Colorado THE WINNER
Denver Christian School Parents of Denver Christian students appreciate the institution’s care for the whole child: mind, body, and spirit. DC education engages kids, preschool through high school, in college prep academics with a foundation of biblical principles and Reformed Christian tradition. denverchristian.org
Books: Getty Images.
Foreign Language School
YOUR CHiLD DESERVES THE BEST POSSiBLE START. Our play-based learning program is powered by STEAM and fueled by FUN!
NOW ENROLLING! 23 LOCATIONS IN THE DENVER AREA 1-800-GODDARD GoddardSchool.com/Denver The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2020
THANKS AGAIN! Voted Winners Tutors/Enrichment Program 3 years Running.
CONTACT US TODAY!
HopkinsEducationServices.com | 720-252-6189
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Camps & Lessons
Any kid in Colorado can find a group or space where they feel inspired to grow and follow their passions. From academic enrichment programs to fun physical feats, check out these exceptional camps and lessons.
Acting lessons: Rebecca Schonbrun.
Special Needs Camp or Class TOP THREE
Adam's Camp exL Learning Camps TACT (Teach the Autism Community Trades) THE WINNER
exL Learning Camps Kids K-8 look forward to camps and no-school day learning adventures that will get them practicing yoga, doodling, experimenting with science, and boosting their academics. Activities at exL Learning are endless, and just might include making puppets or animated videos. Students benefit from certified educators, including Orton-Gillingham-trained teachers for students with dyslexia. exllearning.com
Sports Camp TOP THREE
Avid4 Adventure Denver Christian Sports Camps Ta Da Gymnastics Studio THE WINNER
Avid4 Adventure At Avid4 Adventure, kids can try sports not typically offered at school: rock climbing, paddleboarding, biking, kayaking, and skateboarding. Specialize in one sport or try learning something different each day. Parents feel good about safety measures and helmet use, and watching their kids grow into skilled outdoors people. avid4.com
Dance Studio
Lessons learned at Colorado Children's Theatre stick with kids, even after they walk off the stage.
Acting Lessons
TOP THREE
TOP THREE
Classic Dance Academy Dual Star Academy of Dance Flatirons Dance
Colorado Children's Theatre Rocky Mountain Theatre for Kids Talk to the Camera
THE WINNER
THE WINNER
Flatirons Dance Boys and girls who like to bust any kind of move—hip-hop, ballet, poms, jazz, and more—enjoy classes at Flatirons Dance in Arvada. Kids learn steps and technique but also the history and context behind each dance. Parents love the confidence their tiny dancers build and the community forged at the studio. flatironsdance.com
Colorado Children's Theatre With classes across the Denver metro area, Colorado Children’s Theatre aims to teach Colorado kids theater techniques as tools for life: self-confidence, hard work, trust, and connection. Young thespians can join classes, camps, and private lessons, and perform classics such as The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, and Guys and Dolls. coloradochildrenstheatre.org
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
Day camp: Heidi Calega. Overnight camp: Camp Chief Ouray.
Camps & Lessons
Art Studio or Craft Center TOP THREE*
artSPARK Creative Studio Art Garage The Craftsman & Apprentice The Wonder Co. THE WINNER
artSPARK Creative Studio There’s plenty of space and inspiration for creatives of all ages to express themselves in artSPARK’s large-windowed studio. They offer classes, camps, workshops, and open studio times, in addition to curated birthday parties and events. Tweens and teens particularly enjoy Maker Club after-school classes where they explore 2D and 3D materials. artsparkcreative.com *Tie occurred in this category
O vernight Camp TOP THREE
Avid4 Adventure Camp Chief Ouray Camp IdRaHaJe THE WINNER
Camp Chief Ouray Families count on the memories made and life skills learned at Camp Chief Ouray as integral parts to their kids’ upbringing. The camp has engaged youth in outdoor activities for more than a century. They offer summer camps for ages seven to 17, and stays from three days to four weeks. In the off season, there are fall and winter weekend camps. CCO is a Leave No Trace accredited camp, teaching kids care and responsibility in nature. campchiefouray.org
Overnight camp at Camp Chief Ouray engages kids in outdoor activities and builds friendships that last for a lifetime.
Day Camp TOP THREE
Chatfield Stables School of Rock Steve & Kate's Camp THE WINNER
School of Rock The School of Rock Method™ combines oneon-one sessions with group rehearsals and live performances to teach students how to play together as a united band. Rockin’ artists ages three to 18 join camps like Little Wing and House Band at locations around the Denver metro area. Background-checked instructors help kids grow from beginners to confident performers, gifted in music study, technique, and collaboration. locations.schoolofrock.com/us/co Rock star curriculum at School of Rock camps develops kids' confidence, technique, and skill.
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Camps & Lessons
Photo by Amanda Tipton
Music instruction: Do-Re-Mi.
Register for fall hybrid classes now!
Offering both in-person and zoom classes for students and adults ccdance.org/dreams Just off Highway 36 in Broomfield
3001 Industrial Lane, #12 | Broomfield, CO 80020 | 303.466.5685
Do-Re-Mi Lessons brings music into families lives, from early parent-tot classes to individual instruction.
Music Instruction TOP THREE
Colorado Children's Chorale Do-Re-Mi Lessons School of Rock THE WINNER
SUMMER CAMPS
Do-Re-Mi Lessons This young business is run by a tight-knit group of music professionals and offers parent/child sing-alongs, seasonal group classes, individual lessons, recitals, and events throughout the year. Parents take pride in their little musicians and some join the ranks of Do-Re-Mi students as well. Find all things music through Do-Re-Mi, which sells sheet music and instrument accessories, and partners with local instrument repairmen. doremilessons.com
STEM Class or Camp TOP THREE*
Small group sizes!
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
THE WINNER
• Education in Nature
Silicon STEM Academy At Silicon’s summer camps, self-paced courses, tutoring, and game nights, tech-savvy kids expand their capabilities in coding, game design, digital media, and more. Passionate instructors help students problem-solve and learn innovation techniques that will serve them in the future. siliconstemacademy.com
www.shopoceanfirst.blue/swim
*Tie occurred in this category
• Marine Science • Outdoor Family Experiences
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Engineering For Kids Denver MindCraft Makerspace Pi Q Math Silicon STEM Academy
Colorado Parent | August 2020
®
3
PERFORMANCE-BASED MUSIC EDUCATION FOR TOTS TO TEENS, BEGINNER TO ADVANCED
NOW OFFERING ONLINE OR IN-PERSON PROGRAMMING
THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US
#1 MUSIC DAY CAMP + TOP 3 IN MUSIC INSTRUCTION S CHOOL O F R OCK . COM AURORA 720.789.8866 DENVER 720.221.6991 BROOMFIELD 303.325.3772
Young Voices of Colorado
Be a part of something
AMAZING!
The Highest Quality in Musical Theatre Education
Accepting new singers Call or go online for information
No audition for K-1st Graders - just sign up! Auditions for 2nd-11th Graders
Be AMAZING
Join Young Voices www.youngvoices.org/join 303.797.7464
Offering summer camps and year-round programs in musical theatre for all ages
www.coloradochildrenstheatre.org August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Food & Drink
Colorado has more than just stunning mountain views, the food and drink scene throughout the state is one to brag about. From family-friendly atmosphere to down-right delicious meals, these are the favorite family food spots to hit when you're craving something savory or sweet.
TOP THREE
Mici Handcrafted Italian Steuben’s Tap & Burger THE WINNER
Tap & Burger With locations in Highland, Sloan’s Lake, and DTC, this casual spot is a hit with mini food critics. Kids menu options include the classics like mac and cheese, chicken tenders, and mini burgers. The restaurant is also open for brunch, so kids and grownups can enjoy French toast with whipped cream and seasonal jam or a sweet potato hash topped with fresh veggies. tapandburger.com
Local Burger TOP THREE
Cherry Cricket Park Burger Tap & Burger THE WINNER
Tap & Burger With a build-your-own burger menu, hungry guests can choose from five different patty options—including beef, chicken, and vegetarian— and a variety of toppings and sauces. Each burger is served on a potato bun with a side of hand cut fries, sweet potato tots, or coleslaw. Add the finishing touch to your meal with a refreshing craft beer from their extensive drink menu. tapandburger.com
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
Local Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt TOP THREE
Bonnie Brae Ice Cream Inside Scoop Creamery Sweet Cow THE WINNER
Bonnie Brae Ice Cream Whether you’re a Colorado native or you just moved here with your family, Bonnie Brae Ice Cream is likely on your radar. With flavors changing daily, there’s always something new to try, but some frequent favorites include butter brickle and cookie dough. Order a scoop with hot fudge on top, or go all out with a banana split. bonniebraeicecream.com
Illustrations: Getty Images. Burger, ice cream: Getty Images.
Local Kids Menu
Food & Drink
Family-friendly restaurant: Mici Handcrafted Italian
Local Bakery TOP THREE*
Allergy Free Baking Company Detour Bakery Third Culture Bakery THE WINNERS
Allergy Free Baking Company Dessert-lovers with and without food allergies head to Allergy Free Baking Company for their sweet tooth fix. The gluten- and nut-free bakery serves up cookies, scones, brownies, cupcakes, and other sweet and savory delights with dairy-free, egg-free, and soy-free goodies on the menu as well. allergyfreebakingcompany.com
Local Family-Friendly Restaurant
Parents and kids alike can relax and enjoy the experience of a meal at Mici.
TOP THREE
Mici Handcrafted Italian Oblio’s Pizzeria Tap & Burger THE WINNER
Mici Handcrafted Italian If you're sharing a meal here, you're part of the
Miceli family—that's the core belief of this restaurant. You'll feel right at home while you enjoy pizza or pasta with your little ones. Plus, every Monday after 4 p.m., kids 12 and under can score a free meal with the purchase of an adult entree. miciitalian.com
Detour Bakery Known for French artisan breads and fresh pastries, Detour Bakery’s buttery, flaky baked goods are a local favorite. Customers rave about the baguettes and croissants, and love that special orders can be made for family-sized quiche and tarts. facebook.com/pages/category/Bakery/Detour-Bakery-1531371073783165/ *Tie occurred in this category.
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Shops & Services
Supporting local businesses has never been more important. These hometown spots sell clothes for growing kids, plan delightful parties, or take memorable photos to capture the special moments in a family’s life.
Local Maternity and Baby Boutique TOP THREE
Little Britches Children’s Boutique Little Wolf Boutique Real Baby THE WINNER
Little Wolf Boutique Need an avocado print footie for your BFF’s new baby or an elephant clock for the nursery? This adorable boutique is the place to look for unique clothing, gifts, and accessories for both babies and moms. Parents enjoy browsing the store for quality products that are sold at a fair price and appreciate the expertise of staff members at both the Stanley Marketplace and Edgewater Public Market locations. littlewolfboutiques.com
Children's Resale Clothing Shop or Event TOP THREE
Back on the Rack Childish Things Just Between Friends Consignment Sales THE WINNER
Just Between Friends Consignment Sales The ideal place to go when you’re on a budget or simply want to save money on kids items, Just Between Friends sales offer a huge selection of gently used children’s clothes, shoes, and toys each season. They also sell maternity clothes and infant equipment like car seats and strollers. Shoppers appreciate how organized the event is and love that they can make some extra cash by selling items their children have outgrown. jbfsale.com
TOP THREE
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Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe Second Star to the Right Bookstore Timbuk Toys THE WINNER
Timbuk Toys Since 1993, Timbuk Toys has offered families along the Front Range a large selection of puzzles, games, books, and more. The magical stores turn their employees into trained “toy experts” who are there to offer customers on-trend suggestions and shopping advice. Peruse the aisles or visit their website for unique toys for kids of all ages, from newborn to teen. timbuktoys.com
Brooke Austin captures each family's unique personality in her photography.
Birthday Party Spot
Family or Child Photographer
TOP THREE
TOP THREE
Carousel of Happiness Kids Wonder Tiger Kim’s Academy
Brooke Austin Photo Brittani Chin Photography Anna Phillips Photography
THE WINNER
Tiger Kim's Academy Energetic party guests are quickly engaged with the tae kwon do deluxe party at Tiger Kim’s, complete with an action-packed class led by an experienced instructor, a bouncy castle, pizza, cupcakes, and goody bags for 12 kids. A basic level party package includes all of the fun, but you provide the food and cake. tigerkim.com
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
THE WINNER
Brooke Austin Photo Rounding up your kids to sit still and smile for a family photo is next to impossible, but Brooke Austin makes this challenging task a breeze. Clients rave about her ability to capture each child’s unique personality, and find her to be exceptionally creative and easy to work with. brookeaustinphoto.com
Photographer: Brooke Austin Photography
Local Toy Store
light-seeker. story teller. memory maker. [ portraits + more ]
brookeaustinphoto.com
Empowering individuals with autism through education and employment in skilled trades.
www.buildwithtact.org
Thank You for Making us a Family Favorite!
|
hello@brookeaustinphoto.com
DON’T MISS YOUR CUE. GIVE YOUR CHILD THE BIG STAGE.
Children in 2nd-5th grades, who love to sing and perform, should check it out! No experience needed and tuition assistance is available.
Sign up today! ChildrensChorale.org/Sing
The Montessori Academy of Colorado Visit www.tmaoc.com to schedule a tour.
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Health & Wellness
There’s nothing more important than your child’s health and well-being, which is why choosing medical professionals and facilities can be so daunting. These practices are complete standouts when it comes to caring for your little one, from birth to braces.
TOP THREE
All About Braces Messingham Orthodontics Trommeter Orthodontics THE WINNER
Bring baby into the world in the cozy, peaceful setting of Hygge Birth & Baby.
All About Braces Getting braces is a big step in your child’s life, which is why this family owned practice treats all patients in a warm and welcoming manner. Plus, while orthodontic care can be pricey, All About Braces will work with parents to create a personalized treatment plan that fits their budget. aabraces.com
Birth Center TOP THREE
Birth Center of Denver - Saint Joseph Hospital Hygge Birth & Baby Rose Babies Birth Center at Rose Medical Center THE WINNER
Hygge Birth & Baby This full-cycle birth center has a staff of midwives, doulas, holistic providers, and family counselors and educators who offer personalized care for expecting mothers. Services are available before, during, and after the birth of your child, making Hygge Birth & Baby the ideal place to seek support without having to juggle multiple appointments. hyggebirthandbaby.com
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
Optometrist TOP THREE
Children’s Eye Physicians Hellerstein & Brenner Vision Center Kids Choice Vision THE WINNER
Kids Choice Vision Offering eye care services to both adults and children, parents can have their vision checked at the same time as their little one at this Thornton clinic. Nurturing staff members prioritize a child’s experience by distracting them with tricks and toys throughout their visit. Affordable frame options are an added bonus. brighteyesvisioninc.com
Orthodontist, illustrations: Getty Images. Birth Center: Hygge Birth & Baby.
Orthodontist
Health & Wellness
Well Care is Important. Even During a Pandemic. Life certainly looks different these days, but well care visits are still one of the most important aspects of your child’s health. Make sure your child is healthy, growing properly, and up-to-date on vaccinations. We know parents are worried and we’re working to ensure the safety and health of your kids with different hours and entrances for well and sick kids, rigorous sanitation practices, and virtual visits for certain health concerns. Let’s work together to protect our children in every way that we can. Call today to schedule.
Call 303-699-6200 www.advancedpediatricassociates.com Centennial | Aurora | Parker | Stapleton
Laura Orozco Photography
C R E AT I N G B E A U T I F U L SMILES IN DENVER! Dr. Trommeter is passionate about creating healthy, beautiful smiles. He makes education a priority for his patients and spends ample time providing honest answers and modern solutions. As northeast Denver’s highest rated Invisalign provider, he is capable of making treatment discreet, effective, and schedule friendly.
CALL FOR A COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL TREATMENT SIMUL ATION. Offering the choice of braces or Invisalign® for children and adults.
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3 August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Health & Wellness
Hospital: Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children. Urgent Care: Pediaclinic.
Hospital or Health Clinic TOP THREE
Children’s Hospital Colorado Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children Sky Ridge Medical Center THE WINNER
Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children All physicians at Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children are pediatric board-certified and have a wealth of experience treating kids. With more than 200 pediatric subspecialty physicians and financial counseling for families in need, parents trust RMHC to provide excellent care for their child’s medical needs. rockymountainhospitalforchildren.com Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children is a trusted source for medical care in the metro Denver area.
Dentist TOP THREE
Camp Little Tooth Children’s Dentistry Kids Choice Dental THE WINNER
Kids Choice Dental Going to the dentist can be scary for kids, but Kids Choice Dental visits are designed to be comfortable and fun. The office stays open until 7 p.m. on weekdays and until 4 p.m. on Saturdays to help busy families make time to care for their child’s teeth. mykidschoicedental.com
Pediatrician TOP THREE
Integrative Pediatric Health Care Partners in Pediatrics Southeast Denver Pediatrics THE WINNER
Integrative Pediatric Health Care With a holistic approach, the nurse practitioners at Integrative Pediatric Health Care focus on caring for children as a whole rather than just focusing on a particular ailment or need. The clinic in Englewood offers annual well-child visits, vaccinations, disease prevention and management, injury treatment, and more. iphcdenver.com
Urgent or After-Hours Care TOP THREE
CareNow Urgent Care Children's Hospital Colorado Urgent Care PediaClinic THE WINNER
PediaClinic For health matters that happen after-hours, the staff of local pediatricians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants at PediaClinic are there to care for children at night and on weekends. The practice also created the area’s first mobile unit, which allows for expanded visits to schools, sporting events, and other venues. pediaclinic.net The mobile unit allows PediaClinic to visit schools and other venues around town.
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
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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Now Re-opened ! Visit theKidsDig.com for Updated Information
Indoor Sand Play & Private Birthday Parties Diapered Kids Welcome!
theKidsDig.com 303-973-8407
For Parties Call or Book Online
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Sports & Fitness
Whether you’re raising the next Olympic swimmer or major-league star, these programs make fitness fun for even the tiniest athletes. Your child will never forget the memories they make in one of these sports.
Illustrations: Getty Images. Basketball: YMCA.
Martial Arts Studio TOP THREE
Colorado Budokan Kim & Cam's Tae Kwon Do Academy Tiger Kim’s Academy THE WINNER
Tiger Kim's Academy Kids learn the importance of dedication and discipline in a fun yet challenging environment at this Denver academy. Classes are available to children as young as three-and-a-half years old, but Tiger Kim’s also offers mixed classes in which families can learn tae kwon do together. Other programs include kickboxing, self-defense, and a variety of martial arts. tigerkim.com
Soccer Program TOP THREE
Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Colorado Soccer Buddies Skyline Soccer Association THE WINNER
Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Offering a variety of camps and clubs along the Front Range, Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer strives to provide a meaningful experience for young players with diverse backgrounds. Giving an opportunity to all athletic levels, parents can select from recreational and competitive programs for kids ages three and up. rapidsyouthsoccer.org/welcome
Baseball or T-ball Program
With locations all around the Metro area, the affordable and fun YMCA basketball program is available for a wide range of families.
Basketball Program
TOP THREE
TOP THREE
i9 Sports Littleton Youth Sports Thunder Baseball YMCA Youth Baseball
i9 Sports Teams of Tomorrow YMCA Youth Basketball
THE WINNER
Littleton Youth Sports Thunder Baseball With a focus on teaching teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership, Littleton Youth Sports provides a well-rounded physical experience for kids. The organization offers competitive play for sports fanatics ages six to 14. littletonyouthsports.org
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
THE WINNER
YMCA Youth Basketball Kids looking to sharpen their dribbling and shooting skills will make great strides (and new friends) through one of the YMCA basketball programs. Parents appreciate the affordable year-round programs available to choose from. denverymca.org
Sports & Fitness
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Swim Lessons TOP THREE
Goldfish Swim School Stapleton Splash Swim School, Fort Collins Waterworks Aquatics THE WINNER
Goldfish Swim School Stapleton The go-to spot for all things swimming, you can sign your child up for group lessons, take a dip as a family, or host a birthday party in the 90-degree pool at Goldfish Swim School. Parents love the adorable, kid-friendly facility and appreciate that safety and cleanliness are top priorities. goldfishswimschool.com/stapleton
Tumbling or Gymnastics Program TOP THREE
Jazz • Ballet • Hip Hop • Lyrical • Poms & Cheer • Performance Opportunity • Boys Breakdancing • Tumbling & Acro • and Many more!
Bounce Gymnastics CO TaDa Gymnastics Studio TIGAR Gymnastics and Cheer THE WINNER
TIGAR Gymnastics and Cheer TIGAR Gymnastics and Cheer has programs that every child can benefit from, including toddler and preschool classes, competitive teams, cheerleading and tumbling lessons, and ninja training. With a focus on fun and safety, their trainers are known for being exceptionally caring and supportive. tigargymnastics.com • Academic Support for Grades K-12, Virtual and In-person • 1:1 Tutoring • Specialized Support for Dyslexia • Academic Coaching • Executive Functioning Skills • Social Emotional Academic Learning • Test Prep • Learning Evaluations
Ski Lessons for Kids TOP THREE*
Breckenridge Ski & Snowboard Lessons Keystone Ski & Snowboard Lessons Shredder Indoor Ski & Snowboard School Winter Park Ski and Ride School THE WINNER
Breckenridge Ski & Snowboard Lessons At Breckenridge, experienced pros are passionate about teaching kids skills that are important both on and off the slopes. Visitors appreciate the emphasis on having a memorable family experience, rather than getting every move perfect. breckenridge.com *Tie occurred in this category.
Other Sports Program TOP THREE
Girls on the Run Littleton Youth Hockey Association Ninja Nation THE WINNER
Littleton Youth Hockey Association Littleton Youth Hockey Association is the ideal place for aspiring hockey players to develop and master their skills on the ice. Instructors teach kids everything from the basics of ice skating to the importance of self-discipline, all while keeping an emphasis on positive reinforcement. littletonhockey.org
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C
Photo by Monet Nicole
At Hygge, you’re going to know your birth team. They’re the people you’ve been working with and getting to know during your entire pregnancy. It's where even in this uncertain time that you can find a welcoming space where you can still experience birth with your partner and birth team. This is Birth Center Care and This is Hygge, Your Birth, Your Baby, Your Way.
Come visit us and see if the Birth Center experience is right for you.
811 East Lowry Boulevard, Suite 230, Denver | 720-464-7599 | hyggebirthandbaby.com
Calendar AUGUST
Our Picks For Little Ones
MUSIC TOGETHER ONLINE CLASSES ONGOING See page 60
For Kiddos
EXPEDITION NATURALIST AUG. 26 See page 59
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For Tweens
MONSTER DAY GREELY AUG. 3-31 See page 60
For Teens
AUG.
13-16
Find everything you’ll need for your child’s ages and stages at the Just Between Friends sale.
Just Between Friends Aurora
Aug. 13-16, times vary. Find everything from kids clothes to baby gear at this large fall and back-to-school consignment sale. Reserve tickets online and bring your own bag to shop. Free online reservation, $2-$30 at the door depending on the day and time. Cornerstar, Aurora. aurora.jbfsale.com
FETCH AT STANLEY ONGOING See page 59
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Calendar | August
counting while engaging with nature. Join Majestic View Nature Center virtually for class, register online. Ages 4-7. arvada.org
Young Chef Camp Aug. 4-5,
MOVIE MOMENTS
10am-1:30pm. Join Chef Dan and Chef Leanne (from To the Wind Bistro) for this two-day workshop focusing on the basic skills that will last a lifetime. Chef Dan will introduce kids to the fundamentals of cooking, including knife skills, emulsification, sautéing, roasting, measurements, bake times, and altitude adjustments. Register online. Ages 11-17. $145. The Seasoned Chef Cooking School, Denver. theseasonedchef.com
ONGOING EVENTS
5 WEDNESDAY
Calendar What’s Inside SPECIAL FAMILIES
57 58
Young Chef Camp See Aug. 4.
59
Pee Wee Art Take-Home Kit: Paper Towel Painting 4:30-5:30pm.
WHERE THE KIDS ARE
60
For this take-home kit preschoolers will learn how to play with texture and colormixing to make vibrant paintings on a paper towel canvas. Pick up the kits at the Curtis Center for the Arts and follow along with a how-to video at home. Ages 3-5. Register online. $15. Curtis Center for the Arts, Greenwood Village. greenwoodvillage.com
HEADS UP! Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information.
Get listed!
Goat Yoga 9-10am. Participate in an all-ages outdoor yoga class with Rocky Mountain Goat Yoga. Class sizes are limited to 15 people and guests are asked to wear masks. Reserve a mat space online. $30-$35. Skål Farm, Golden. rockymountaingoatyoga.com
Family Yoga Aug. 1 and 15, 9:15-10am. Roll out your mats to enjoy a meditation and flow yoga session with the family. This class is for all experience levels, age 4 and up with their caregivers. Please wear a mask and comfortable clothing, and bring your own mats, water bottles, and sunscreen. Register online. Includes admission to The Gardens and the Butterfly House. $15 adults, $12 children. The Gardens on Spring Creek, Fort Collins. fcgov.com
Kids Club: Sail Away 10:30am. Drop off your petite Picasso at Whimsy Studios and let them independently explore their artistic expression through painting sailing pictures. Ages 7-15. Register online. $25. Whimsy Studios, Denver. makeitwhimsy.com
Breakfast at Urban Peak Volunteering 8:30-11:30am. Join Off
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Colorado Parent | August 2020
The Mat Colorado, a yoga community that works in the service of others, for their monthly breakfast provision at Urban Peak youth shelter, which provides services for youth experiencing homelessness or those who are at risk. Sign up to bring a meal item and join the group to prepare a nourishing meal. Urban Peak, Denver. facebook.com
3 MONDAY
6 THURSDAY
VIRTUAL Mother and Daughter Self-Defense Basics Aug. 6 and
20, 6-7:30pm. Join this two-part series and have fun while learning foundations for safety, communication, and
HOT TIP
Full Moon Hike 8pm. Discover Aurora’s true nature under the light of the full moon and learn a little about its history with this guided nature hike. Registration, masks, and social distancing required. Age 6 and up. Senac Creek Nature Center at Aurora Reservoir, Aurora. auroragov.org
4 TUESDAY
VIRTUAL Trees Are Green,
And Many Other Things
10-10:45am. Talk shapes, colors, and
Chocolate Chip Cookie Day
Register for The Passport Program Young schussers and shredders, don’t forget to register for your passport to 21 Colorado ski and snowboard areas. Through Colorado Ski Country USA, 5th graders can ski or ride free for three days; 6th graders receive four days for $130. coloradoski.com/passport
Girl baking, cookie: Getty images. Skiers: Dustin Shaeffer.
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 and use it to post your own events at any time.
1 SATURDAY
Family painting: artSpark.
Calendar | August
understanding. Age 12 and up. $60 per person. impact-colorado.org
guests. Donations encouraged. girlsincdenver.org
8 SATURDAY
11 TUESDAY
Meet the Beekeeper
VIRTUAL My Bold Future
9:30-11:30am. Stop by the apiary while Hudson Gardens’ beekeepers work, to observe live, active beehives and real-life management techniques. Open to the public, all ages. Hudson Gardens, Littleton. hudsongardens.org
See Aug. 10. VIRTUAL Bilingual Storytime 10:30-11:15am. Join
Second Star to the Right Bookstore on Instagram live for a celebration of the Spanish language and hispanic culture. This special storytime will include songs, activities, and stories in Spanish and English for kids of all ages to enjoy with their parents or caregivers. secondstartotherightbooks.com
Semi-Private Family Pour Painting Workshop 1-2pm. Participate in a semi-private workshop that will get your family creating together on a large canvas. Choose from three different canvas sizes and five paint colors. Canvas style, sizes, and prices vary. Register online by Aug. 1. $169-$449. artSPARK, Littleton. artsparkcreative.pike13.com
9 SUNDAY
Plant Pop-Up Sale 9am-1pm. Plantitas and the Golden Triangle Farmers Market will be selling plants and plant products. Shop ahead of time online and pick up at the market. Masks required. Plant and product prices vary. Golden Triangle Farmers Market, Denver. plantitas.squarespace.com
Special Families
VIRTUAL 3 to
5 Project: Making Friends Aug. 4, 10am-noon. Learn how your child can make friends in a new school and build a circle of support that is needed for a thriving life. Join the webinar presented by Thrive Center. thrivectr.org VIRTUAL Healthy Boundaries and Relationships Webinar Aug. 5, noon-1pm. GLOBAL Down Syndrome Foundation’s Jennifer Harris, M.S.E., and Dr. Taylor Dreher Lee will teach parents how to support their adolescents in the dating world. Learn how to help your child set boundaries and make abstract concepts related to dating more concrete. $10, free for GLOBAL members. globaldownsyndrome.org
VIRTUAL Virtual Self-Defense for Teens Aug. 11 and 27, times
Dump, swirl, and find out what’s possible at artSPARK’s workshop, Aug. 8.
10 MONDAY
VIRTUAL My Bold Future
Aug. 10-14. Support Girls Inc. of Metro Denver during this celebration of girls’ achievements. The virtual weeklong program will award more
VIRTUAL IDEA/Section 504: The Laws that Protect Our Children Aug. 21, 9:30am-12:30pm. Join Bright Futures Academy and Familias Hispanicas Unidas Por Autismo for a workshop that will interpret what IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and Section 504 means to your rights and the rights of your child with disabilities. Register online. brightfuturesadvocacyllc.com VIRTUAL Neurodiverse Dungeons & Dragons Club Every Fri, 6-8pm. Games Worth Playing presents an open adventure in Dungeons and Dragons available to all abilities and levels. Email ndttrpg@ gmail.com for the link. Age 8 and up. facebook.com/events/890959271404416 VIRTUAL Sibling Clubhouse Aug. 1, 4-5pm. Hang out with other kids who have siblings with autism. Autism
than $52,000 in college scholarships, recognize local Champions for Girls, and raise money for Girls Inc. of Metro Denver’s mission to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Daily content will be released to registered
Community Store provides a chance to create community and enjoy fun activities like joining the group’s Minecraft realm. Email connect@ autismcommunitystore.com to get on the sibling clubhouse email list. autismcommunitystore.com Special Needs Hip-Hop Dance Class Tue, Aug. 4-25, 6-7pm. The focus of this class is a fun, constructive, and energetic dance environment. Age 5 and up. Register online. $84. Eastridge Recreation Center, Highlands Ranch. hrcaonline.org Special Needs Indoor Soccer Wed, Aug. 5-26, 5:15-6pm. Learn the skills to play soccer, the rules of the game, and good sportsmanship. Age 8 and up. Register online. $63. Southridge Recreation Center, Highlands Ranch. hrcaonline.org
vary. Share the foundations of personal safety with your teens. During this event, they will learn to improve friendships and gain confidence in their ability to protect themselves as they move through high school. Ages 13-16. Register online. $30. impact-colorado.org
12 WEDNESDAY
VIRTUAL My Bold Future
See Aug. 10.
Special Needs Tae kwon do Tue and Thu, Aug. 11-27, 3:504:30pm. Designed to help students improve balance, concentration, self-control, and confidence. This class is open to all ability levels. Ages 5-21. Register online. $115. Northridge Recreation Center, Highlands Ranch. hrcaonline.org VIRTUAL Spectrum Parent Adventures Aug. 8, 6-8pm. Join Autism Community Store’s parent support group where you’ll share the challenges and triumphs of being a caregiver of someone on the autism spectrum. August’s meeting includes a panel of experts who will talk about what education will look like in the fall, tips for providing meaningful instruction at home, and ideas for sensory activities. autismcommunitystore.com
August 2020 | Colorado Parent
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and enjoy the mountains in summer. Viewers are encouraged to bring blankets or low-profile chairs, nonalcoholic beverages (adult drinks will be for sale), and maintain proper social distancing with designated picnic areas. Reserve online. The Collective at Snowmass, Snowmass Village. aspenfilm.org
Families can still enjoy a movie outing at the Denver Mart Drive In. 88 Drive-In Theatre Daily, 9pm. Catch a triple-flick from the comfort of your car. You must have a working FM car stereo or portable radio in order to hear the films. Gates open at 7:30pm. $9, free ages 12 and under. 88 Drive In, Commerce City. 88drivein.net Amazon Adventure 3D Daily, 10:30am and 2pm. See the true story of explorer Henry Bates, who dedicated his life to science in the Amazon rainforest in the 1850s. $6-$7, plus museum admission. Denver Museum of Nature & Science. See Where the Kids Are, page 60. BIFF Drive-In Sat, 7:30pm. Produced by the Boulder International Film Festival at the Boulder Municipal Airport, this summer series features award-winning, classic, and new films. Check for film title releases each Friday at noon. Gates open 7:30pm, live music at 8pm, film begins around 9pm. $30 per vehicle. Boulder Municipal Airport, Boulder. biff1.com Dairy’s Drive-In Cinema Fri-Sat, 8pm. Located in the West Entrance parking lot of the Dairy Arts Center in Boulder. Purchase your ticket online in advance. The gates open at 8pm and the movies will screen when it is dark enough. $20. The Dairy Arts Center, Boulder. thedairy.org Denver Mart Drive In Fri-Sun, 8:15pm. Purchase a ticket online and pull up to the Denver Mart’s massive
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movie screen this summer. Patrons are expected to wear masks and stay in their cars, except to use the restroom. Gates open at 8pm. $10 age 7 and up. Denver Mart Drive In, Denver. denvermartdrivein.com Hidden Pacific 3D Daily, 1pm and 4pm; additional screening on Fri and Sat, 6pm. See the beauty of bluegreen islands, atolls, and coral reefs in the far reaches of the Pacific Ocean, largely untouched by humans. $6-$7, plus museum admission. Denver Museum of Nature & Science. See Where the Kids Are, page 60. Into America’s Wild 3D Daily, 11:30am and 4pm. Witness a crosscountry adventure into the hidden wonders of the natural world. The film visits some of the most beautiful but untamed landscapes of America. Denver Museum of Nature & Science. See Where the Kids Are, page 60. Holiday Twin Drive-In Select nights, 6pm. Order tickets and concessions online for this Fort Collins attraction. Find two-screens and double features with movies and live music concerts. Abide by social distancing requirements and wear a mask. $6-$9. Holiday Twin Drive-In, Fort Collins. holidaytwin.com Movies Under the Stars Sat except Aug. 1, 8pm. Presented by Aspen Film, this second year of openair flicks brings you a chance to picnic
Colorado Parent | August 2020
Park & Watch Movie by Coffee & Cars Littleton Aug. 19, 7:30pm. Have a classic car, hot rod, or unique old, or new car? Join the Coffee and Cars Littleton group for a drive-in every third Wednesday through October. Behind The Scenes will have delicious pizza and adult beverages for purchase. Register online for limited spots. Behind The Scenes Tap House, Littleton. facebook. com/events/917241898738616 Snowmass Drive In Movies: The Lion King Aug. 6-7, 8pm. Throw it back to the late 1950’s by driving in and tuning the radio to an FM transmission. On select Thursday and Friday nights, Aspen Film presents films with proper social distancing. Lot opens at 7pm, movies begin at 8pm. Register online. Snowmass Town Park, Snowmass Village. gosnowmass.com Starlite Drive In Most Wed-Sat, 8:50-10:15pm. Claiming “The Highest Drive-in in the country,” this summer series experience offers classic films for families to enjoy from their vehicles. Social distancing and mask wearing will be enforced. Reserve tickets online. $8.50, free age 11 and under. Blue Starlite High Rockies, Minturn. bluestarlitedrivein.com
13 THURSDAY
VIRTUAL My Bold Future
See Aug. 10.
Star K Kids Discovery Time Aug. 13 and 27, 9:30am and 11am. Discover Aurora’s true nature through puppets, interactive activities, and discovery time on the trail. Registration required. Age 5 and under, inclusive to all abilities. All participants will wear a mask during the program and practice social distancing. Morrison Nature Center, Aurora. auroragov.org VIRTUAL The College Search Process During COVID-19 7pm. Parents and
students, join Denver Public Libraries to learn about keys for identifying and gaining acceptance to a college or university that is a great fit, where students will graduate well-prepared for their future at a reasonable price. Register online. denverlibrary.org
14 FRIDAY
VIRTUAL My Bold Future
See Aug. 10. VIRTUAL Anythink Backyard Concert Series: Hazel Miller Band 6:30-8pm.
Anythink Libraries continues its concert tradition this summer with streamed online performances for you to set up in your backyard. There’ll be ways to interact and connect with the bands, the library, and with each other. Donations suggested. anythinklibraries.org
15 SATURDAY
Family Yoga See Aug. 1. Summer Movie Series by Avanti and Alamo Thu through Aug. 27, 9pm. Join Alamo Drafthouse Denver and Avanti F&B, who’ve partnered up to bring a movie festival on the lawn every Thursday. Bring your own lawn chair and sponsors New Belgium will give adults a free beer. Special menus provided by Lea Jane’s Hot Chicken and Meta Asian Kitchen. Aug. 13: Grease sing-along. Aug. 20: Trading Places. Avanti Food & Beverage, Denver. avantifandb.com
19 WEDNESDAY
Pee Wee Art Take-Home Kit: Stacked Sculptures 4:30-5:30pm. For this take-home kit, preschoolers will construct their own towering sculptures using cut-out shapes, glue, and paints. Pick up the kits at the Curtis Center for the Arts and follow along with a how-to video at home. Ages 3-5. Register online. $15. Curtis Center for the Arts, Greenwood Village. greenwoodvillage.com
Girls: Denver Mart Drive-In.
Movie Moments
Ongoing Events NATURE PROGRAMS AND CLASSES
Denver Zoo’s Stingray Cove Open daily. The new interactive exhibit gives visitors a chance to touch and feed an array of stingrays and sharks while they swim carefree in a state-ofthe-art habitat. Tickets for Stingray Cove available onsite only. $5 plus admission. Denver Zoo. See Where the Kids Are, page 60.
Family Nature Days Aug. 29, 9am-noon. Join Bluff Lake Nature Center’s youth education team for monthly themed family days. Drop in the last Saturday morning of each month through September to find activities, crafts, scavenger hunts, and more. Bluff Lake Nature Center, Denver. blufflake.org
VIRTUAL CAMP@HOME with UNICEF Kid Power Online
daily. Young do-gooders can log on to UNICEF’s Kid Power programming to find more than 75 short videos guiding them in sports, crafts, cooking, campfire songs, and more. They’ll be inspired to play and build skills on-screen, then go make an impact off screen. kpop.ukp.io VIRTUAL Dome to Home: Understanding the Next Meteor Shower Tue, 2pm. Join
Fiske Planetarium’s virtual planetarium summer series and watch them fly (via their YouTube channel) around the universe and answer your space questions. Each episode includes handson activities, for different ages, and social media challenges. colorado.edu
Join Denver Public Library and StoryCenter online to share personal stories of joy, struggle, and resilience. Register online. Age 14 and up. denverlibrary.org
Fireside Chats Second Thu, 6:30-7:30pm. All ages are welcome to the Bluff Lake Nature Center for fun and educational drop-in programs. Sit around a campfire, roast s’mores, and interact with astronomy, animals, music, and more. Bluff Lake Nature Center, Denver. blufflake.org
Fetch at Stanley Sat, 10am-6pm; Sun, 10am-5pm. Enjoy safe summer shopping while visiting more than 40 local makers popping up alongside locally-owned small businesses. Event features live music, food, and drinks. Vendor prices vary. Stanley Marketplace, Denver. stanleymarketplace.com
VIRTUAL Confection Perfection: Jolly Rancher Company 6-7:30pm. One of the
22 SATURDAY
CLASSES, CLUBS, AND PROGRAMS
Amaryllis Kids Yoga Sat,
VIRTUAL Junior Firefighters Virtual Summer Camp Aug. 4-
world’s most iconic candies—the Jolly Rancher kiss—was invented in Golden. Join Golden History Museum Director Nathan Richie to learn about the history of the company, from its founding as a mom-and-pop ice cream shop on Washington Avenue to an international sensation. Register online. goldenhistory.org
Discover what makes turtles so unique and see a real turtle in action. Outdoor only, register online. Ages 8-12. $5. Majestic View Nature Center, Arvada. arvada.org
Get a good look at the natural world on an Expedition for kids, on Aug 26.
20 THURSDAY
VIRTUAL Mother and
Daughter Virtual SelfDefense Basics See Aug. 6.
Are You a Turtle? 10-11am.
26 WEDNESDAY VIRTUAL Expedition
Naturalist 4-5pm. Mud mucking,
21 FRIDAY
Nature at Night: Nocturnal Insects 7:30pm. Take a walk to see what’s out and about at night as the seasons change. Dress for the weather and bring a water bottle. All participants are required to wear a mask during the program and practice social distancing. Registration required. Pronghorn Natural Area, Aurora. auroragov.org VIRTUAL Reflective Life
Writing Workshop 3-4:15pm.
trail hiking, bird watching—being a naturalist provides a lot of fun experiences. Learn what it means to be a naturalist with Majestic View Nature Center online. Registration required. Ages 8-16. $5. arvada.org
27 THURSDAY
Star K Kids Discovery Time See Aug. 13. VIRTUAL Virtual Self Defense for Teens See Aug. 11.
9-9:45am. Kids enjoy yoga as an imaginative experience that helps them connect with their minds and bodies. Teacher Kendra, a doctor of pediatric physical therapy, engages kids in a holistic practice designed to build flexibility, strength, and confidence. Ages 4-11. Mats provided. First class free, $10-$15 sliding scale. Amaryllis Therapy Network, Denver. amaryllistherapy.net VIRTUAL Black Breastfeeding Week Aug. 25-31.
August is National Breastfeeding Month and the Black community is bringing attention to the specific experience and needs of Black women and families when it comes to nourishing their young ones. This seventh annual event is for education, collaboration, imagination, and innovation. Find more information about program schedules online. blackbreastfeedingweek.org
Sept. 5. Take part in a fun, kid-friendly virtual summer camp focusing on fire safety, firefighting history, and the fire service. Ages 5-12. Register online. $15-$40 child, $25-$70 family. Denver Firefighters Museum. See Where the Kids Are, page 60.
Kids Art Nite First Fri, 6-8pm; third Sat, 5-7pm. It’s an Open Studio Nite at artSPARK. Kids grades 1st-5th can enjoy self-led creative experiences while parents enjoy a relaxing evening out. $35. artSPARK, Littleton. artsparkcreative.com VIRTUAL Kids Yoga Fri, 2-2:45pm. Join Guided By Humanity and Satya Yoga Cooperative Instructor Lakshmi Nair via Zoom for an all-abilities kids yoga class. Ages 5-12. Participants will join in physical postures as well as mindfulness activities, music, and dance. Register online. guidedbyhumanity.org
August 2020 | ColoradoParent.com
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Calendar | August
Where the Kids Are
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.
Aurora History Museum Temporarily closed. Butterfly Pavilion Daily, 9am-5pm. $13 adult, $11 seniors, $9 ages 2-12, free under age 2. Reserve timed tickets online. Face coverings are required. 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster. butterflies.org
Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus Thu-Sat, 9am-3pm. Three 90-minute play sessions each day. $12 ages 1 and 60+, $12 ages 2-59, $1 Explorer Pass, free under age 1 and members. Reservations and masks or face coverings required. Only The Art Studio, Joy Park, and Water exhibits are open at this time; toys and props are available to check-out. Grab-and-go food from the cafe is available. 2121 Children’s Museum Dr., Denver. mychildsmuseum.org
CU South Denver Temporarily closed. Denver Art Museum Daily, 10am-5pm; Fri, 10am-8pm. $10-$13 adult, $8-$10 senior, military, and college student, free age 18 and under. Reserve timed tickets online. Face coverings, social distancing, and hand washing are required. The cafe and coat check are currently closed. 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver. denverartmuseum.org
Denver Botanic Gardens York Street Daily, 9am-5pm. $15 adult, $11.50 senior and military, $11 ages 3-15 and student, free age 2 and under. Reserve tickets online, wear masks, socially distance, and shop outdoors from the gift shop. Mordecai Children’s Garden is closed. 1007 York St., Denver. botanicgardens.org
Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms Daily, 9am-5pm (entrance gates close at 4:30pm). $7 adults, $5 seniors and students, free members and children 12 and under. The Children’s Play Area is closed. 8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton. botanicgardens.org
Denver Firefighters Museum Tue-Sun, 10am-4pm. $9 adult, $8 senior, military, and student, $6 ages 2-12 and firefighters, free age 2 and under. Book a reservation online for a one-hour time slot. Masks are required. 1326 Tremont Pl., Denver. denverfirefightersmuseum.org
Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys Temporarily closed. Denver Museum of Nature & Science Daily, 9am-5pm; open until 9pm on Fridays. $18.95 adult, $15.95 senior, $13.95 ages 3-18, free age 2 and under. Purchase timed tickets online for $2 off each admission. Masks required. The Coffee Lab and TRex Cafe will offer prepackaged food and beverages. 2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver. dmns.org
Denver Zoo Daily, 8:30am-7pm (entrance closes at 4pm). $20 adult, $17 senior, $14 child ages 3-11, free age 2 and under. Reserve timed tickets online. All purchases on the
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campus are cashless, and pathways are one-way. Mask or face covering required. 2300 Steele St., Denver. denverzoo.org
Downtown Aquarium Daily, 10am-8pm. $23.50 ages 12-64, $22.50 senior, $17.50 ages 3-11, free age 2 and under. Sting Ray Reef, Carousel, and the 4D theater closed until further notice. 700 Water St., Denver. downtownaquarium.com
Four Mile Historic Park Fri-Sun, 10am-4pm. $5 ages 18-64, $4 senior and military, $3 ages 7-17, free age 6 and under. Small groups with timed tickets. Special hours reserved for high-risk populations: Friday, 10am-noon. 715 S. Forest St. Denver. fourmilepark.org
History Colorado Center Mon-Wed and Fri-Sun, 10am-5pm; Thu, 10am-8pm. $14 adult, $12 senior, $10 ages 16-22 and student, $8 ages 5-15, free age 4 and under. Mondays are reserved for members only through Aug. 31. Timed tickets and face coverings required. 1200 Broadway, Denver. historycolorado.org/history-colorado-center
Littleton Museum Tue-Fri, 10am-3pm. Walkways will be open and the farm’s livestock will be available for viewing, but the historic buildings are closed and no interpretive programming will be presented. 6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton. littletongov.org/museum Longmont Museum Temporarily closed. Lookout Mountain Preserve and Nature Center Temporarily closed. Majestic View Nature Center Closed for walk-in visitors, online tickets for limited in-person programs available. 7030 Garrison St., Arvada. arvada.org/nature Museum of Boulder Sun, 10am-5pm; Wed, 9am-5pm; Fri, noon-8pm. $10 adults, $8 seniors, youth, students, free children under 2 and members. Masks required, and finger cots available for hands-on activities. 2205 Broadway, Boulder. museumofboulder.org
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center open Wed-Sun, 9am-4pm. Grounds open daily 6:30am-6:30pm. 6550 Gateway Rd., Commerce City. fws.gov/refuge/rocky_mountain_ arsenal
University of Colorado Museum of Natural History Temporarily closed. Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun, noon-5pm. $16.95 ages 17-64, $11.95 senior and military, $9.95 ages 4-16, free age 3 and under. Two-hour time limits and guest capacity. Face coverings required. Simulators are closed. 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver. wingsmuseum.org
WOW! Children’s Museum Temporarily closed.
Ongoing Events VIRTUAL Littlest Learners at Home Wed, 10am. WOW! Children’s
Museum will host an at-home series on sustainability for parents/caregivers and their young ones, ages 0-3, on Facebook. wowchildrensmuseum.org VIRTUAL Monster Day Greeley Aug. 3-31. Join the third annual
nonprofit event that showcases Greeley’s unique monster community. This year the festival goes virtual with weekly event highlights released every Monster Monday and a livestream feature on Aug. 22. monsterdaygreeley.com VIRTUAL Music Together Online Classes and Free Demo Through
Sept. 4. Start dates and meeting times vary. Get your babies, tots, and preschoolers grooving while helping them grow with Music Together online classes. For infants up to age 5 and their caregivers, this combination of Zoom and prerecorded content can be accessed from the safety of your home. See online for schedules. Contact Music Together for a free Zoom demo. Free demo, $160 session. mountainsongmusic.yourvirtuoso.com VIRTUAL Online Kid Actor Curious
Tue, 11:30am-12:30pm. Kids of all levels will flourish in Talk to the Camera’s Kid Actor Workshops. They’ll learn character development, acting techniques for all on-camera mediums, scene work, monologues, and improv skills. The nuts and bolts of acting jobs will also be covered. Ages 6-16. Register online. $100 per month, $30 drop-in class. talktothecamera.com
Queer and Transgender People of Color Support Group First Wed (POC only) and third Wed (allies welcome), 6-7pm. Help build a community around queerness, transgender identity, and being a person of color. Please Note: Rainbow Alley’s programs are for LGBTQ youth and their allies (age 11-21). Rainbow Alley is a tobacco, alcohol, and drug-free space. The Center on Colfax, Denver. lgbtqcolorado.org VIRTUAL Rainbow Alley Online Check-In Tue-Wed, 2-7pm;
Thu-Fri, 2-8pm. Join Rainbow Alley’s check-in for LGBTQIA+ youth every Tuesday through Friday online. Create community
Calendar | August
Mom and baby: Music Together.
Colorado Backyard Open daily, 9am-5:30pm. Butterfly Pavilion’s interactive exhibit invites guests to enjoy indoor play structures, live animals, a virtual reality experience, and a rotating exhibit area. Connect with unique invertebrate habitats in Colorado’s ecosystems, including those in your backyard. Reserve entry tickets online. Butterfly Pavilion. See Where the Kids Are, page 60.
Hecho en Colorado Cafecitos
Virtual Music Together classes get babies to wiggle, shout, and let it all out. and take care. Registration involves an intake form and gaining access to the Discord Server lgbtqcolorado.org VIRTUAL Reading with River Second Wed of every
month, 4-5pm. 15-minute private appointments available from 5-6pm. Drop in with kids and have them read aloud to a friendly pup. River the therapy dog is known to be a good listener and help kids build confidence for long-term literacy. Second Star to the Right Books, Denver. secondstartotherightbooks.com VIRTUAL Read Aloud Til Morning Picture Book Club
Virtual readings on the last Wed of each month, 5-5:30pm. Join Second Star to the Right’s Read Aloud Till Morning Book Club, running through September. Your child will receive two picture books a month and join a virtual reading. Ages 3-8. $40-$153. secondstartotherightbooks.com VIRTUAL Story PlayTime with Mr. Paul Wed, 10:30-11am.
Timbuk Toys has brought Story PlayTime with Mr. Paul to young audiences for four years. Now, they bring the fun to Facebook Live every Wednesday morning, engaging kids in song, magic, stories, juggling, slap-stick silliness, and puppetry. facebook.com/timbuktoys VIRTUAL Virtual Little University Thu, 3-4pm. Explore
virtual early-learning activities beyond
traditional storytimes. Activities presented by the Ross-Barnum Branch Library are suitable for children ages birth through preschool, and they change from week to week. Register online. denverlibrary.org
Youth On Record Open Lab Tue-Thu, 12:30-3:30pm. Youth on Record is reopening limited in-person programming with Open Lab, a free after-school program for musicians/ artists interested in producing, song writing, recording, audio engineering, and playing instruments. Ages 14-20. Cohorts of up to nine will have a designated day of the week to come in (with masks and gloves). Register online. Youth on Record, Denver. youthonrecord.org MUSEUM MEANDERINGS VIRTUAL Butterfly Pavilion
Virtual Learning: The Coral Connection Tue-Thu, 11am. Discover where your water goes and how people affect the flow. Even land-locked Colorado is connected to the oceans, find out how through this exploratory virtual program. All ages welcome. Register online. $3 suggested donation. butterflies.org VIRTUAL Butterfly
Pavilion Virtual Learning: Who Needs a Habitat? Tue-Thu, 11am. Virtually explore invertebrates and their homes. Learn what components of habitat all living things need. Suggested for grades K-3. Register online. butterflies.org
Daily, 9-10am. Join curated intimate tours of the Hecho en Colorado exhibit. Groups of 10 or less will gather for some coffee and socialization followed by a guided tour from the founder of the Latino Cultural Arts Center and exhibit curator, Adrianna Abarca. The exhibit features art from Chicano, Mexican, and Native artists from across the state. $12. History Colorado Center. See Where the Kids Are, page 60.
Homestead Open House Sat, 10am-2pm. Experience 1800s homesteading life at the Golden History Museum and Park. Head over on summer Saturdays to check out volunteer-led activities such as woodstove cooking, cabin exploration, schoolhouse lessons, and blacksmithing. Don’t forget to wear a mask. Golden History Park, Golden. goldenhistory.org
Nature Connects Art with Lego Bricks Through Oct. 31. Denver Zoo, home to nearly 3,000 animals and 450 species, will add more creatures in still-life Lego form. The exhibit returns to the zoo for the first time since 2015, featuring more than 15 life-size creations by artist Sean Kenney. Included with admission. Denver Zoo. See Where the Kids Are, page 60.
Norman Rockwell: Imagining Freedom Open daily. Famed for his illustrations that lovingly communicated everyday community and domestic life in the 1940s, Norman Rockwell’s work inspired notions of freedom during war efforts and inspired contemporary illustrators’ advancement of civic ideas
through visual mediums. Visit the exhibit to learn about Rockwell and his legacy. Included with admission. Denver Art Museum. See Where the Kids Are, page 60.
Playzeum Open indefinitely. Explore the Playzeum exhibit featuring a rainbow forest of musical steps, curiosity cabinets, and more imaginative ways to play. Young ones will discover age-appropriate opportunities to develop cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. The exhibit is built with pre-kindergarten to 8-year-olds in mind. $10 adults, $8 seniors, youth, and students, free members and children under 2. Museum of Boulder. museumofboulder.org
Shantell Martin: Word and Lines Open daily. See an interactive multimedia installation featuring the work of London-born, New York-based contemporary artist Shantell Martin. Included with admission. Denver Art Museum. See Where the Kids Are, page 60.
The Art of the Brick Open daily. From the mind of contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya to the floor of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science comes a Lego brick showcase you won’t forget. Reserve tickets online. Don’t forget a face covering. $17.95 adult, $12.95 junior, $14.95 senior, free member. Denver Museum of Nature & Science. See Where the Kids Are, page 60.
The John Denver Experience Open daily. Mon exclusive to members through Aug. 31. Wander through the forest set complete with a soundtrack of John Denver songs. Enjoy the sunshine room, nature pictures taken by Denver, concert footage, and photo ops with life-size cutouts. Reserve tickets online. $12-$14 adult, $10 ages 16-22, $8 ages 5-15, free age 4 and under. History Colorado Center. See Where the Kids Are, page 60. VIRTUAL Virtual Wee Firefighters Aug. 18-Sept. 19. Join
a virtual firefighting and fire safety class made especially for little ones ages 3 and up. Register online. $10-$30 child, $20-$60 family. Denver Firefighters Museum. See Where the Kids Are, page 60.
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Roundup
Urban Putt: Brittni Bell Photography. Colorado Journey Miniature Golf: South Suburban Parks and Recreation.
4 Places to Putt-Putt
Experience high-tech obstacles along Urban Putt's colorful indoor course.
Engaging and socially-distanced, miniature golf offers a hole-in-one for family fun.
By Priscilla Blossom
W
hile many attractions remain closed due to COVID-19, there’s one activity locals are still able to flock to: miniature golf. And fortunately, local courses are doing everything to ensure players have a good, safe time, including requiring masks for employees and guests, social distancing at six feet, frequent sanitation, and keeping certain features off-limits temporarily. If you’re in the mood to putt-putt, check out these local spots. ADVENTURE GOLF AND RACEWAY Putt through and around erupting volcanoes, talking trees, picturesque flowers, bubbling fountains, and even fire effects while playing Adventure Golf and Raceway’s 54 holes of mini-golf. The attraction typically offers go-karts and an arcade, but currently only mini golf is open. Up to four guests are allowed to play together per round, and no cash payments are being accepted. The concession area remains open for prepackaged snacks and drinks. adventuregolfandraceway.com COLORADO JOURNEY MINIATURE GOLF Part of South Suburban Parks and Recreation, Colorado Journey
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offers a mini-golf experience that is truly “Colorado.” Putt though local landmarks like Dinosaur Ridge, Mesa Verde, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in the two 18-hole courses. Bring something to write with if you like keeping score, as pencils are not available. Benches, tables, and chairs are also currently off limits. ssprd.org/colorado-journey PUTTER’S PRIDE Located on the south side of Lakewood, Putter’s Pride is known not only for its three unique, 18-hole courses, but also for being home to a number of adorable bunny rabbits. If the promise of spotting cute, hopping critters during a game isn’t enough of a lure, maybe the $10 unlimited
Colorado Parent | August 2020
golf deal is ($8 for kids and seniors). One last note: If your child's birthday is coming up, Putter’s Pride is open to hosting socially-distanced birthday parties. putterspride.com URBAN PUTT Urban Putt opened in 2019 in the former Old Spaghetti Factory location in LoDo. This quirky, indoor putt-putt facility offers a colorful, high-tech experience. Turn one way,
and you'll see glowing neon aliens or a mini mechanical ferris wheel. Turn another, and you’ll run into a recreation of DIA’s red-eyed Blue Mustang sculpture. There’s plenty of Instagram potential here, not to mention craft cocktails that draw in a hip, younger crowd in the evenings. It’s all-ages until 8 p.m., and though guests must wear masks, they are allowed to remove them while sitting at their tables. urbanputt.com
Putt your way through local landmarks at Colorado Journey Miniature Golf.