camps activities travel
Float Trip!
PLAN A FAMILY RAFTING TRIP THAT’S MORE MILD THAN WILD
How To Craft a MARIONETTE PUPPET 3 Metro Parks Worth the Drive MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOW! 10 Don’t-Miss Summer 2022 Events in Denver
KEEP ’EM BUSY! Summer Camps and Classes
SUMMER 2022 PART OF THE
PUBLISHING FAMILY
COLORADOPARENT.COM
Sign Your Child Up for a Summer of Discovery
Summer Day Camps in Park Hill | Central Park | Mayfair We live for the moments when excited children discover passions that drive them and talents they never knew they had. During the summer, our theme-based, 2-week day camps use hands-on, real-world experiences, guided by highly trained Montessori educators, to give children ages 1-12 a chance to explore the world and their own unique gifts. To learn more, including how we are keeping our students safe, call or visit our website to schedule a virtual tour.
mchdenver.org
•
303.322.8324
Session 1
June 6 – 17: Storybook Island (Literature)
Session 2
June 20 – July 1: Fun with Food (Cooking)
Session 3
July 5 – 15: Science Sleuths
Session 4
July 18 – 29: Hiding in the Garden (Insects)
good to know Coco Loco’s Tropical Papaya Bowl Berry Blendz’s PB&J Bowl with Raspberries and Banana
Frozen, Fruity Satisfaction Coloradans are often earnest health trend followers and creators, especially when it comes to quick, tasty nourishment (looking at you, Bobo’s Oat Bars). It’s no surprise, then, that more than a dozen restaurants built in the Centennial state prominently feature smoothie bowls on their menus. The kid-friendly bowls include ingredients like acai, banana, chia, nut butters, and greens. Some even boast dragon fruit or spirulina (blue-green algae understood for brain health benefits). Families in need of a cooling summer treat—with added fiber, vitamins, and minerals—can snag a PB&J-inspired, leafy green-packed, or bright blue tropical smoothie bowl like Whole Sōl’s Mango Piña Colada (shown right). If added sugars are a concern, ask to see a list of bowl ingredients (added sugars may be called Turbinado); or consider having the kids split a bowl if the portions are quite large. —Anna Sutterer
Smoothie bowls: Heather Gaumer.
Rush Bowl’s Bravocado Bowl with Strawberry and Coconut
Whole Sol’s Mango Piña Colada Bowl
Green Collective Eatery’s Green Bowl
Superfruit Republic’s Strawberry Mango with Dragon Fruit and Goji Berries
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good to know
Skateboard Lessons for Young Shredders Got the next Sky Brown—13-year-old Olympic bronze medalist—in your family? Check out these programs that give metro Denver kids pointers on skating form, safety, and culture. Rocky Mountain Shred School teaches beginner to advanced skaters ages four to fiftysomething. Evan Kuzava, a pro with more than 20 years of experience, gives private and virtual lessons, and hosts parties and summer camps. Skate parks and homes around the Denver metro area. rmshredschool.wixsite.com Square State Skate owns two large indoor skating facilities where shredders of all ages can come for after-school sessions, private lessons, and camps. Loaner boards are available for newcomers. A loft with bar seating and WiFi is a nice spot for parents to watch their kids’ progress. Boulder and Denver, and skate parks in the metro area squarestateskate.com
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Curbside Skatepark’s four coaches help run Saturday Skate clinics, private lessons, and an after-school program. The 11,000 square-foot space includes a snack bar and gear shop so kids are never short on grip tape, bearings, wheels, decks, or sick apparel. Ladies Skate Sesh every last Sunday evening of the month is open to girls of all ages and abilities. Sheridan. curbsideskatepark.org SkateStart, an instruction system and patented board design, helps beginners learn how to push, roll, and ollie with proper foot placement. Teachers bring the method to their own communities through classes, camps, and birthday parties. Railbender Park in Parker hosts a camp for novices age four and up. Redstone and Tanks skate parks in Highlands Ranch offer beginner lessons, plus camps for those at a slightly higher level. Parker and Highlands Ranch. parkerrec.com, highlandsranch.org —Anna Sutterer
2021
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good to know
Good To Know Frozen, fruity treats
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Roundup Destination parks
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Good Neighbors Chess for success
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What We Love Essentials for camp
play 15
Make a Monster Marionette Challenge yourself and the kids with this clever craft.
explore
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Float Trip! Take a trip on the mild side with this water adventure for families.
learn
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Stronger by Nature The life-changing impact of sending kids to outdoor camps. Evan Kuzava, from Rocky Mountain Shred School, helps his student, Miles, refine his skateboarding skills during a lesson at Denver Skatepark.
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
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Unique Camp Experiences These local programs help kids find their passions.
Skateboarding: Anna Sutterer. Chess: Make a Chess Move.
contents
2022
REGISTER
S
MARCH TARTING
28 FOR
F FUN!
MMER O YOUR SU
Serving Highlands Ranch and the surrounding communities.
The Highlands Ranch Community Association has over 100 camps that offer something for everyone! From half-day to full-day camps, keep your kids busy and active when they are out of school. Camp Backcountry: Nature • Horses • Art • Expedition • Teen Leadership Art & Education: STEM • Drama • Snapology • Art • Pottery • Creative Kids • Multimedia • Cooking • Dance • Jewelry Camp HRCA: Swimming • Field Trips • Activities Sports: Tennis • Gymnastics • Basketball • Golf • Fencing • Racquetball • Dodgeball • Kickball • Volleyball • TaeKwonDo Therapeutic Recreation: Triathlon • Lego • Bike
Explore camp possibilities online at www.HRCAonline.org/Camps
good to know
contents
If you’re planning to add a pet to your family this summer, here’s a book to get for your bookshelf. Colorado author Lisa Blake and illustrator Nadine Rebrovic recently released How To Love Your Rescue Pup: 10 Simple Rules for Taking the Very Best Care of Your Furry Friend, their second book in the children’s series How To Love Your Pet. Blake started the endeavor with her six-year-old son, Braxton, who enjoys helping with research and writing the tips.
HOW TO LOvE YOUR RESCUE pUP 10 SIMPLE RULES for taking the very best care of your special furry friend
Written by Lisa Blake Illustrated by Nadine Rebrovic
EDITORIAL edit@coloradoparent.com Editor Deborah Mock Senior Associate Editor Kara Thompson Editorial Assistant Anna Sutterer Copy Editor Lydia Rueger
ADVERTISING SALES Advertising Director Brigette Swartz brigette@coloradoparent.com Account Manager Hilary Angel hilary@coloradoparent.com Advertising and Marketing Coordinator Tamara Curry
PRODUCTION Art Director Heather Gaumer
BRAND SERVICES Brand Services Director Carly Lambert Print Operations Director Megan Skolak
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
“To see kids naturally do this is a beautiful thing,” Blake says. “They have a connection with animals and display that unconditional love that we’re hoping to capture in our books.” Rebrovic even included her niece, Cecilia, and the girl’s adopted pup on one of the pages. Inspired by family and friends who rescued dogs from animal shelters throughout the pandemic, the team felt these pets could use special love and careful attention. Some important ways the book teaches families to love their adopted dogs include:
happenings
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Get Ready for Summer 2022 Check out the Colorado events, festivals, and fun coming this summer.
fresh mindset
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Brooke Cheley-Klebe, from Cheley Colorado Camps, knows the benefit of the sleep-away camp experience.
Trust; don’t give up on them. Make a safe space for them. Be silly; rescue dogs love giggles and fun. Feed them yummy, nutritious food. How To Love Your Rescue Pup is available at Tattered Cover and BookBar in Denver, or through Instagram: @how2loveyourpet, and Facebook: @howtoloveyourpetchildrensbooks. —Anna Sutterer
Creative Services Manager Chelsea Conrad Digital Advertising Manager Shundra Jackson Graphic Designer Caitlin Brooks Production Coordinator Alyssa Chutka Design Coordinator Mylie Hiraoka Creative Services Intern Dzifah Danso MARKETING Director of Marketing Piniel Simegn
on the cover
Photo: Cindi Stephan 10 15 25 30 33
3 Metro Parks Worth the Drive Craft a Marionette Puppet Take a Family Float Trip Summer Camps and Classes 10 Don’t-Miss Summer 2022 Events
ADMINISTRATION Billing and Collections Manager Jessica McHeard DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION circulation@coloradoparent.com 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 CEO & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Daniel Brogan VICE PRESIDENT, REVENUE Zach Wolfel
Printed by Publication Printers 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) ©2022 5280 Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.
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Family with pet: Getty Images. Aerial: Aerial Cirque Over Denver.
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How To Love Your Rescue Pup, According To Local Children’s Book Creators
good to know
Pool: Gaëlle Callnin. Book: Penguin Young Readers/Penguin Random House. Shoes: Heather Gaumer.
BRIGHT IDEA
Totally Tiny Tokens The ’80s-kid version of a friend request? The friendship pin. Back before social media and email, heck, before answering machines, kids marked a friendship by swapping colorfully beaded safety pins to wear on their tennis shoe laces. Each pin reflected the totally awesome style of the individual maker. Still an easy token for kids to make and share, friendship pins are also inexpensive enough to give to everyone at camp. The only supplies needed are safety pins (any size) and beads (tiny seed beads work well for dexterous hands, but any smaller beads will do). The easiest—and tidiest—method of making the pins is to dump the beads in a bowl, open the safety pin and have kids dip in to “catch” and stack the beads on the pin “spear”. Then close it up and share a reminder of summer days together. — Deborah Mock
Book a Backyard Pool FOR YOUR BOOKSHELF
Just in time for family road trip planning comes a local twist on a beloved children’s classic: Welcome To Colorado: A Little Engine That Could Road Trip. Follow the little blue engine as she chugs past familiar Colorado landmarks like Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Rocky Mountain National Park, Denver’s Capitol Building, and Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Learn fun facts about each location in a durable board book format designed to inspire your youngest adventurers. Look for other states in the series, too. penguinrandomhouse.com — Lydia Rueger
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
Throw a private pool party that suits your family, without neighborhood crowds or noise. Through Swimply—like Airbnb for pools— folks can book other people’s private pools to take a relaxing dip or splash around. Currently, the Denver metro area has 13 familyfriendly (children and infants allowed) pools available for rent at $35 to $135 per hour. The most luxurious setups host up to a few dozen people and include things like hot tubs, grills, water and lawn games, fire pits, and even a slide. Many provide just the basics, with everything you’d need for a safe, fun day or evening out, including bathroom access, pool toys, and lounge chairs. All pools are BYOL (be your own lifeguard), so have some safety guidelines in place! swimply.com —Anna Sutterer
N TUITIO E AN C T IS S S A B LE ! AVAIL A
summer camps @
house of
!
explore!
MUSIC BELT ROCK it out AGES 13-18
AGES 6-10
AGES 10-13
all camps include a performan ce
camps filling fast-register now! SWALLOWHILLMUSIC.ORG/CAMPS
them
es C L AS SIC R BEAT OCK LE F O LK S D IS N + MO E Y RE
JUNE JULY AUG YALE
71 E YALE AVE DENVER, CO 80210
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roundup
Nature Park: Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds. James A. Bible ParK :Heather Gaumer.
Westminster Station Nature Play Park
Destination Parks By Anna Sutterer
S
ometimes, a patch of grass and simple swing will suffice for a summer afternoon at the park. But if your family is in need of a fresh environment, visit these new and improved facilities featuring inclusive equipment, natural materials, and community programs. RiNo ArtPark Living up to its mission to be a creative community hub, ArtPark—opened in September 2021—has several family-fun opportunities planned for summer 2022. The outdoor gathering space, located in Five Points, will host art workshops, programs connected to the nearby Platte River, and a Kid’s Fringe event in conjunction with the Denver Fringe Festival, a platform for experimental arts. Families can also check out the new Denver Public Library branch—opened in February 2022—and First Friday exhibit openings from Alto Gallery, plus artist workshops from ArtPark partner RedLine. rinoartpark.com
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Westminster Station Nature Play Park This park, full of features made from nature-based materials, opened in November 2021. Climb a tree house, scale a tiny mountain, and dig for replica dinosaur fossils in a playground constructed from boulders, logs, and sands that mimic the native surrounding area. During the beginning stages of design in 2017, developers Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds held community engagement sessions where Colorado STEM Academy sixth graders gave ideas for the park, which is just blocks away from the school and abuts the Little Dry Creek Trail/Rocky Mountain Greenway. bienenstockplaygrounds.com, cityofwestminster.us James A. Bible Park Rising from the wood chips, two tall towers invite visitors to climb in the revived (as of November 2021) Bible Park. Bright green slides shoot out from the main structure leading kids toward a “Crab Trap” rope climbing obstacle structure, a swing set with two accessible chair swings, and
James A. Bible Park an inclusive zero-entry merry-go-round with bench seating. Don’t forget to pack your wheels before heading out to this attraction near Cherry Creek State Park—the grounds also feature a pump circuit track on which bike and scooter riders can play with building momentum. denvergov.org
Chess: Make A Chess Move.
good neighbors
good neighbors
Chess for Success By Anna Sutterer
W
hat makes a good chess player makes a strong person: tenacious learning, critical-thinking, understanding consequences, turning losses into lessons. Make a Chess Move (MACM) infuses the game’s philosophy into their youth development programs in order to elevate the community and defy negative forces, including the school-to-prison pipeline. A student that learns compassion, ethical decision-making, and goal setting has a great chance for success. “Everyone at MACM has a common understanding that chess relates to life,” Oujaa Brown, MACM’s administrative assistant says. “Our participants begin to think about the potential consequences of their actions, thus resulting in them making better choices.” MACM provides opportunities for this process through elective classes in schools, quarterly chess workshops (currently online), and summer programming. “Some students are able to come out of their shells and display a sense of confidence,” Brown says. “Others may have been directed by one of the facilitators and have been able to change some of their negative practices. Everyone who enters MACM’s doors is considered a “niecephew” (niece and nephew combined) and we create a strong bond with each member.”
COMING UP: The Make a Compassion Move summer internship pays youth ages 13 to 17 to help manage MACM’s social media and digital presence, and engage with chessboard/life strategy and social-emotional curriculum. The program is meant for youth that are struggling with school attendance, academic achievement, and involvement in the system. Make A Career Move, also for ages 13 to 17, helps youth to explore career opportunities through workshops that cover financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and wealth building. Participants from both internships also plan and host Safe Zones during the summer. The free events allow the community to enjoy food and activities in a safe space. makeachessmove.org
s at t r a t s r Su m m e d a C e n t e r va the Ar With camps in drama, dance, visual arts, digital arts, and more, there’s something for everyone at the Arvada Center! Learn more and register: arvadacenter.org or call 720.898.7200
HOW YOU CAN HELP: Reach out to become a volunteer or mentor (chess expertise not required) or donate to help MACM provide programming and operate in schools across Denver.
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what we love
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All
Want to know what your child did at camp? Send them off with the Camping Journal for Kids by Kim Andrews so they can keep track of their adventures. The journal has spots for kids to log their favorite nature trips and crazy insect encounters, and offers journaling prompts to get them writing. $8, target.com
PACKED UP
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6 essentials for camp-bound kids.
2 By Kara Thompson
Protect little ankles from ticks and sharp twigs with these Happy Camper Kids Crew Socks. The bear print socks keep kiddos cozy while they hike and play with their buddies. Plus, they’re a fun and affordable surprise to get your kid stoked for camp. $6, littlebluehouse.com
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Whether it’s a morning of trail walks or an afternoon dip in the lake, kids are active at camp. Keep your cuties hydrated by sending them with the Sprout Ware Straw Bottle. The 10-ounce bottle is made with plant-based materials, free of BPAs, and dishwasher safe. $15, greensproutsbaby.com
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4 The Coleman Kids LED Lantern will add a whimsical glow to your kid’s cabin. With a 16-hour runtime on batteries and lifetime LEDs, which never need to be replaced, it’s a no-brainer for kids heading on an overnight trip. $10, target.com
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While we certainly hope your tiny camper doesn’t encounter any grizzlies, they can still bring the thrill of wildlife on their summer getaway. The water-resistant Little Bear Backpack has plenty of space for kids to tote their necessities, and it comes with a pouch that holds smaller items. $100, cocovillage.com
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If your little one is heading to sleepaway camp, send them with this Sherpa Sleeping Bag. The super soft sleeping bag completely unzips on two sides for easy in and out transitions. A zippered pocket in the bottom corner gives kids a place to stash headphones and other knickknacks. $119, crateandbarrel.com
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
WILD!
2022 Summer Camps
MAKE YOUR SUMMER
June 20 - July 30
WHAT CAN YOU DO AT ZOO CAMP? experience animals up close explore outdoors interact with zoo keepers learn about protecting animals make animal-loving friends design cool crafts
...and much more!
Photo by Misha Photography
Unforgettable summer adventures are available for grades pre-K to 6.
Offering Summer Camps for ages 3-12, beginning dancers through intermediate dancers.
ccdance.org/summercamps
CMZOO.ORG/SUMMERCAMP (719) 424-7827 • EDPROGRAMS@CMZOO.ORG
Just off Highway 36 in Broomfield 3001 Industrial Lane, #12 Broomfield, CO 80020 303.466.5685
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®
PERFORMANCE-BASED MUSIC EDUCATION FOR TOTS TO TEENS, BEGINNER TO ADVANCED
SUMMER MUSIC CAMPS
JOIN THE BAND THIS SUMMER! Our award-winning weeklong day camps are perfect for young musicians of any skill level who want to play guitar, bass, drums, keys or vocals in a fun and collaborative setting, with a performance for friends and family at the end of each session!
NOW WITH 8 FRONT RANGE LOCATIONS AURORA
BOULDER
BROOMFIELD
COLORADO SPRINGS
Photo by Torch Media
clyffordstillmuseum.org
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
DENVER
FT COLLINS
GOLDEN-LAKEWOOD
LITTLETON
play Make a
Monster Marionette
Challenge yourself with this clever creation from the craft experts at Art Garage.
T Marionette: Heather Gaumer.
he marionette, also called string puppet, takes practice to master; its limbs are manipulated from above by threads attached to one or more control handles. They’re also quite entertaining—some are capable of imitating almost every human or animal action. Instructors at Denver’s Art Garage assembled this simplified design for kids and parents to try at home.
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SKILL LEVEL: Recommended for ages nine to 12 with parent help.
You Will Need:
48-oz yogurt container or other plastic tub Electric drill with an ¹⁄₈-inch bit One 13-inch wooden barbecue skewer Wire cutters Seven craft sticks (It’s a good idea to have extras in case any crack during drilling.) Glue gun Scrap fabric (cotton works best) Scissors Cardboard Fishing line Foam sheets, construction paper, or felt (for the eyes and mouth)
Directions: 1. Drill a small hole through the center of the bottom of the yogurt container. Flip the container over and drill two more holes on opposite sides of the container about a half inch from the top. Thread the skewer through the two holes. With wire cutters, snip the ends of the skewer so it pokes out just an inch from each side of the container. Set the clipped ends aside for later.
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
4. Drill holes into both ends of four of the craft sticks, about a quarter-inch from the tips. Drill slowly to avoid breaking the craft sticks. Thread one of the clipped skewer ends through the ends of two craft sticks so they make a long leg with a knee joint (see above). Repeat with the other skewer end. Tip: If your clipped ends are fairly long, trim them to about one-inch pieces so the top and bottom of the leg aren’t too far apart. Put a dab of hot glue on the ends of each skewer piece so the craft sticks don’t slide off. 5. Take one end of a “leg” and attach it to the container by threading the skewer through the top hole of the craft stick. Put a dab of hot glue on the end of the skewer so the leg doesn’t slide off. Repeat with the other leg. 6. Out of the cardboard, cut two foot-shaped pieces, about four inches long and two inches wide. Mark a small rectangle at the heel of each piece and carefully poke through that space with the end of a scissor blade. The opening should be just large enough to fit the end of a craft stick (leg) through. Fit the feet on both legs and secure them with hot glue. 7. Using three more craft sticks, drill a hole in only one end of each. Glue the undrilled ends of two craft sticks to create a line. Then glue the third craft stick end to the middle (where the other two sticks meet), creating a “T” shape.
8. Measure a piece of fishing line starting at one knee joint and reaching to the top of the container, plus four to five inches; cut two. Wrap the end of one fishing line around the right (if you are facing the front of the puppet) knee joint—on the skewer—and make a knot. Thread the other end of that line through hole “a” of the “T” bar, and knot. Repeat on the other side of the puppet, threading the fishing line through hole “b” on the “T” bar. 9. Measure and cut another piece of fishing line (the height of the container plus four to five inches). Knot one end of the line on the skewer that’s threaded through the container. Thread the other end of the line through the hole in the top of the container, and then through hole “c” of the “T” handle, knot and secure with dab of glue if needed. 10. Make eyes and a mouth out of construction paper, felt, or thin foam sheets. Glue them to the front of the container. Be sure all connection points of the skewers, craft sticks, and fishing line are secure before playing.
Marionette steps, diagram: Heather Gaumer.
2. Measure and cut out enough fabric to cover the yogurt container, leaving a little extra at the base to fold over. Wrap it around the container, using hot glue to secure it, and poke holes through the fabric where the skewer ends are so they can peek out. Trim and fold any extra fabric over the base of the container and glue.
3. Cut out a circle of fabric, enough to cover the bottom of the container, and secure with hot glue. Poke a hole through the center of the circle, so a fishing line can go through the hole in the container and the fabric.
Summer Camps Week-long day camps for students entering 3rd through 8th grade
the World In A City
Build a business, rule the world, be MONEY SMART! Camps include:
Young AmeriTowne, International Towne and YouthBiz
Register Soon! Camps Fill Quickly!
register at YACENTER.ORG/summer-camps Cherry Creek: 3550 East First Avenue Denver, Colorado 80206 Belmar: 401 South Pierce Street Lakewood, Colorado 80226
Let your adventure begin. The range of outdoor activities are limitless in the city of Aurora and there is something for everyone to enjoy!
GoAurora.org
All Paths
Lead to Aurora
@AuroraGov 2022 COLORADOPARENT.COM
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FIND YOUR FRIENDS. FIND YOUR Y. In YMCA of Northern Colorado Summer Camps, campers find fun and friendship, a sense of wonder and a spark of joy. With a variety of camps in Boulder, Lafayette, Longmont, Loveland, Berthoud, Johnstown and Fort Collins, Y campers develop skills, self-confidence, new friendships and a sense of belonging — growing more self-assured in a safe and nurturing environment.
SUMMER CAMPS NEAR YOU: • YMCA CAMP NOCO Traditional K-6th day camp
• Y RIDERS CYCLING CAMP Our camp for cyclists of all abilities
• KINDERCAMP Traditional day camp for ages 3-6
• STEAMROLLERS STEAM-focused
• YMCA CAMP ELKS Outdoor, nature focused
• NEW! ESPORTS MINI CAMP Try our new half-day Esports Camp
• SPORTS CAMP The perfect camp for sport lovers
• YMCA CAMP SANTA MARIA Overnight Camp in Bailey, CO
YMCA OF NORTHERN COLORADO Boulder • Lafayette • Longmont • Johnstown
Ultimate Learning, Ultimate Fun Our “VOYAGERS” program is for ages 5-12; enroll today for the ultimate summer camp adventure!
Register Today (303) 972-0787 littlepeopleslanding.com
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
Find your friends at ymcanoco.org/summer-camps
explore FLOAT TRIP! With the water just a gentle ripple under your raft, family float trips allow the scenery and side trips (hot springs, anyone?) to take center stage.
Echo Canyon: Cindi Stephan.
By Courtney Holden
2022 COLORADOPARENT.COM
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RIVER RUN How a multi-day float trip fueled my son’s love for the outdoors.
W
FUN FOR KIDS, EVEN OFF THE RAFT Splashing in the river was a particular highlight for my little guy and the four other kids on the trip, all under age 10. Once we’d set up camp for the night, they returned to the tide pools to make sand pies, selling them to the onlooking parents for exorbitant prices. After dinner, while the adults swapped “What do you dos?” the kids took advantage of their looser reins to hunt for lizards and build rock castles. Crawling into our sleeping bags, I asked Charlie, “Are you having fun?” No answer. He was already asleep. The following day we floated a few miles downstream before stopping at a spot so dusty and barren it looked uninhabitable for anyone but Gerald. After a brief hike, however, we found ourselves gaping at River House. The kids endured the guides’ history lesson on the two-story Ancestral Puebloan structure and obediently walked a hundred yards further to the
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
Background: Getty Images. Family float: Courtney Holden
e first met my son’s new acquaintance sitting on a log outside of our hotel room. The quartet of families joining our four-day, three-night float trip down the San Juan River had been instructed to gather outside in a few minutes for a little get-to-knowyou meeting, but this slender fellow didn’t seem in any hurry. Neither did my five-year-old son, Charlie, who was studying him intently. “I think his name is Gerald,” Charlie announced. “Gerald, huh? Well, I suppose that’s as good a name as any for a lizard,” I replied, ushering my little boy toward the group. We’d booked the rafting excursion six months prior to add some adventure to our summer—adventure of the milder sort. After motoring from Boulder to the blip on the map that is Bluff, Utah, we packed up the dry bags our guides provided, met the other passengers, and reveled in one last night with electricity before hitting the river. The next morning dawned sunny and hot at what felt like 100 degrees in the shade. Aboard the 18-foot oared rafts, our guides steered us past coyote willow and Russian olive plants and pointed out cliff swallows’ gravity-defying mud nests on the canyon walls. With our minds focused on the area’s natural beauty, the heat was hardly noticeable. And when it was, a jump overboard into the slow-moving, 80-degree water solved the problem.
midden heap, an ancient dump area for domestic waste. There, a guide picked up a quarter-sized, rust-colored triangle and said, “Check out this piece of pottery. It’s at least 800 years old.” That caught the kids’ attention. Immediately their eyes were glued to the ground, calling out their finds as they grouped them in a small collection pile. When it was finally time to go, the guides reminded the kids these were not souvenirs and asked them to help re-scatter the remnants. Walking back to the raft, my son rambled on about the treasures he’d found, adding, “It’s good we left them there for other people to see.”
Our third full day on the trip included eagle sightings, otter tracks, and a group of bighorn sheep grazing on the bank opposite camp. Spotting something hairy creeping on a bush, my son called out, “Tarantula!” and fielded questions from his friends about the find. FINAL FLOATING THOUGHTS Our final morning on the water went by too quickly, and we soon found ourselves loading into the vans that would drive us back to our starting point in Bluff. The kids (now best friends) all jockeyed for seats near each other. Listening to them crack up at their inside jokes, I wondered
WHERE TO FLOAT Ready to float? Here are four great trips around Colorado. what impact the trip might have on my son long-term. A desire to live life to the fullest? Recognition of the importance of not sweating the small stuff? A confidence boost? I was still running through the clichés when we pulled up to the hotel. As we loaded our car, Charlie went back over to the log, and sure enough, there was Gerald. This time, my son introduced the lizard to his friends, and they watched him—no pestering, just observing—until the adults hollered it was time to leave. We passed around farewells and got my little guy buckled into his car seat. Backing out of the parking spot, Charlie rolled down the window and called, “Bye Gerald! See you next time!” And I realized it didn’t matter if Charlie walked away from this experience with the kid version of an epiphany. What mattered is that we’d whetted his appetite to do it again.
Half- or full-day tours through Bighorn Sheep Canyon with Echo Canyon River Expeditions are the perfect way for first-time floaters to get their feet wet. Starting in Cañon City, this jaunt along the Arkansas River includes a few smaller rapids, though most of the trip is calm enough to keep an eye out for the canyon’s namesake mammal. Book a glamp-site with Royal Gorge Cabins and save the drive home for another day. raftecho.com A half-day trip down the Middle Roaring Fork with Aspen Whitewater Rafting offers smooth sailing with a few mild splashes. Book their “Rafting and Ranching” package, and your float comes with a guided tour of the barnyard at nearby Rock Bottom Ranch. aspenwhitewater.com
FLOAT TRIP TIPS Veteran OARS guide Dave Garcia offers up these suggestions for parents planning a family outing on the water. PREPARE TO SOAK IT IN. Refocus your kids’ expectations ahead of time that this is not a trip where you’ll experience the white-knuckled adrenaline rush of white water. You will see, however, eagles soaring overhead, ancient cliff dwellings, and fossils embedded in canyon walls: “A river trip is a way to get to places that you couldn’t otherwise get to and see things you wouldn’t otherwise see,” Garcia says.
READY YOUR BODY. “[Many] types of people can go on these trips,” Garcia says, noting the river isn’t just for the super adventurous or athletic among us. “If you’re able to get on and off a boat under your own power and generally walk around short distances, then you can go on these trips.” That said, it’s still smart to prepare a little one, especially if you’re going on a multi-day float trip. You certainly don’t have to hit the gym, Garcia says, but consider getting out for a couple short hikes prior to the excursion. A few days before the trip, lay off the fast-food and soda and opt instead for more nutritious fuel and lots of water.
BOOK AROUND THE WEATHER. When planning where and when to take a float trip, consider how well your kids do in certain conditions. “Maybe your six-year-old likes the heat and can handle it, but I’ve also seen kids completely melt down when it’s 105 degrees,” Garcia says. Many guiding companies offer trips from April through September (OARS trips span March through November), so if possible, select dates where average temperatures will suit your children’s temperaments.
Those looking for a full-day float should consider a leisurely ride along the Upper Colorado River with Kodi Rafting, which allows riders as young as age three. Highlights include Gore Canyon’s stunning 1,000-foot walls, a dip in a natural hot spring, and a quick hike to see dinosaur tracks. whitewatercolorado.com OARS specializes in multi-day river runs across the world. If you want to stay local, check out their three-day float down the Green River. Suitable for kids age seven and up most of the season, the trip winds through three canyons, including the scarlet slots of the Gates of Lodore near Dinosaur National Park. oars.com
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WATER-READY GEAR While you’ll certainly want to follow your outfitter’s packing list, here are a few time-tested river essentials to have on hand. 1. The Shoes: Chaco Kid’s Z/1 EcoTread Read any rafting company’s what-to-wear guidelines and they’ll tell you to wear good river shoes that strap on tight and have decent tread. Leave the flip-flops at home and opt instead for Chaco’s Kid’s Z/1 sandals. Highly durable and machine-washable, these sandals now come in funky, kid-approved colors. $60, chacos.com
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2. The Shades: Knockaround Kids Sunglasses Boasting UV400 sun protection and polarized lenses, kids will love Knockaround’s adorable array of sunny Gs. At around $20 a pop, the world won’t end if the glasses get lost in the big drink. $22, knockaround.com 3. The Hat: Outdoor Research Kids’ Seattle Sombrero Protect your child’s head, neck, and face with the Seattle Sombrero, featuring UPF 50+ protection. If your crew encounters rainy conditions, its brim will direct water away from little peepers, too. $39, outdoorresearch.com
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4. The Shirt: Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Sun Hoody It might seem counterintuitive to wear a hoodie on a hot day, but a light, long-sleeved top is a must-have for both sun protection and beating the heat (thank you, evaporative cooling). This recycled polyester jersey comes with odor control technology and a 50+ UPF rating. $55, patagonia.com 5. The Water Bottle: MiiR 23oz Vacuum Insulated Bottle Be sure to drink water while out on the water. MiiR’s double-wall vacuum-insulated bottles promise to keep drinks frosty for more than 24 hours, and the proprietary Perfect Seal prevents inopportune leaks. $35, miir.com 6. The Bug Protection: Natrapel Get 12-hour protection from mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies with Natrapel’s convenient wipes or spray, which use CDC-approved picaridin as repellent. The DEET-alternative formula is approved for kids age two months and up as well as pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. $5-$10, natrapel.com 7. The Sun Block: Rocky Mountain Sunscreen When you’re on the water, the sun is not only beating down from above, but it’s also bouncing up from below. This locally developed sunscreen works like moisturizer without clogging pores, while allowing the body to breathe and sweat. $5 and up, rmsunscreen.com
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
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Does your child struggle with Reading, Writing, Spelling and/or Math? Is your child Dyslexic? Our Super Stars Summer Camp is an engaging intervention program for your struggling child to learn, grow & THRIVE! • 5-week Orton-Gillingham Intervention program • June 6–July 8, 8:15am–11:30pm or 9:15–12:30 • Reading intervention (1-1 or small group max 4) Lakewood/Littleton 4000 S Wadsworth Blvd (The Havern School at Wadsworth & Hampden Lakewood, CO 80123
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
learn Stronger by Nature
Why choosing an outdoor summer camp can be a life-changing—and world-changing—experience for your child By Courtney Holden
Photo: Getty Images.
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t Camp Backcountry, it’s not uncommon to see a small group of seven-year-olds bent over a cluster of chokecherry shrub, staring intently at a fuzzy, black-and-yellow blur buzzing around the flower petals. Their counselor fields the occasional question about the bee’s industriousness and perhaps mentions its role in the greater ecosystem. For the most part though, the kids just watch what the bee is doing. “It brings a whole new appreciation,” says camp director AnnaKate Hein. “A lot of times you can teach without even having to speak.”
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Situated on the 8,200-acre Highlands Ranch Community Association Backcountry Wilderness Area, life-changing moments occur through the camp’s structured, science-related activities like uncovering bobcat tracks and studying animal scat, as well as unstructured endeavors like fort building and playing camouflage games in the woods. Combining the two approaches provides a chance for children to learn social, emotional, and communication skills, Hein says.
GET OUTSIDE
Ready to commit to an outdoor camp? Here’s a collection of great options around the Front Range. Empowerment is the name of the game at Avid4 Adventure, which offers day and overnight camps focused on paddling, biking, rock climbing, hiking, and survival skills. Experienced instructors keep kids safe, while also teaching campers how to take calculated, well-communicated risks. Meet-up locations are available throughout Boulder and the Front Range. avid4.com
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
The Urban Farm brings the simple pleasures of country life—a freshly laid egg, the clucking of chickens—to 23 acres just east of downtown Denver. Campers learn to be stewards of the land as they get their hands dirty planting seeds in the garden and caring for the horses, rabbits, and more that live on site. theurbanfarm.org Held on a private, 8,200-acre wildlife habitat conservation property near Highlands Ranch, Camp Backcountry’s roster of summer day camp options includes horseback riding, field journaling, and for older adventurers, white-water rafting through Clear Creek Canyon. Best of all, each camp takes place entirely in plein air. hrcaonline.org Have a child eager to monkey around? Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs offers immersive day camps where kids explore the award-winning zoo and engage with its (smaller,
less ferocious) inhabitants. Among the hands-on learning opportunities: Helping keepers prepare animal snacks (tortoise salad, anyone?) and maintain their habitats. cmzoo.org Kent Denver School’s Tiny Farm Day Camps provide big opportunities for fun and learning. Budding farmers learn about Colorado’s native plant species, explore the world of pollinators, and visit with goats and chickens. kentdenver.org Tall-grass tromping. Cool creek wading. Critter tracking. That’s all in a typical day at summer camp with Louisville’s My Nature Lab. When kids aren’t exploring natural areas, they have a chance to meet the snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and salamanders that call the Lab home. mynaturelab.org
Campers: Avid4 Adventure.
At Boulder-based Junkyard Social Club’s STEM-focused summer day camps, kids spend the bulk of their time outside on the play structures taking on challenges like designing a minigolf course, building a fort village, and launching hand-built parachutes from a structure’s highest level. junkyardsocialclub.org
Camp Backcountry and other summer camps that take place entirely (or almost entirely) outside have myriad benefits. Certainly, the unlimited airflow has made them a much safer environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. More than that however, these camps use nature as an opportunity for kids to learn what they’re capable of, both on an individual and a community level. “Camp Backcountry can be that extracurricular thing that can change their life,” says Lindsey McKissick,
K-12 Summer Camps and High School Classes In-Person, Outdoor and Limited Virtual STEM Programs
CU Boulder | CU Anschutz May 31 - August 5
colorado.edu/sciencediscovery
303.492.7188
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outreach coordinator for the conservation area on which the camp sits. “It sounds big to change a kid’s life, but personal experience tells me that’s exactly what happens.”
OPPORTUNITIES FOR RISK-TAKING AND MORE
At Avid4 Adventure, another local summer camp where kids spend the bulk of their time outside, the life-changing moments occur through positive risk-taking. Their multiple camp options focus on outdoor sports like hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and mountain biking—and sometimes a combination of them all. The goal, however, isn’t to turn kids into super athletes. Rather, it’s to use new challenges to help the kids become better, stronger people, explains Avid4 Adventure CEO Paul Dreyer. Both Hein and Dreyer point to research that highlights the positive effects of physical activity, unstructured play, and time outdoors on children’s physical and mental health. Unfortunately, kids often don’t get these benefits at home, they say. Backyards tend to be too small and rarely contain much wildlife. Days are packed with school, after-school activities, and shuttling between commitments. And then there’s the amount of time kids spend in front of screens, which has only increased with the pandemic. In contrast, outdoor camps generally allow kids to explore natural areas and participate in activities where they have the freedom to make up the rules. In these face-to-face, screen-free settings, children are fully present with their group, which can lead to strong, authentic relationships. “Touching dirt and being around green things … [helps people] find connection with others or themselves,” Dreyer says, noting that connection can happen indoors too; it’s just more likely to happen outside. Outdoor environments are also a natural place for kids to expand their comfort zones. While Avid4 Adventure has safety as its top priority (statistics show their camps have fewer medical incidents than those shown in a national study of other programs, such as football, gymnastics, and pedal cycling), campers have the perception of facing risk when they mountain bike or rock climb. “Kids can feel a little bit of fear in their bodies, but then at the end of the day, they can say, ‘I did it,’” Dreyer says. “It really helps boost self-confidence.”
WHEN CONDITIONS AREN’T IDEAL
Parents may worry about their kids being outside in less-than-ideal weather conditions, but that too can be a benefit. Hot temperatures can be turned into an excuse to have water fights. Rainy days mean puddles to splash in. Sure, there might be some initial discomfort in these conditions, but with the right mindset, kids learn perseverance and grit. “Our instructors manage the risk of inclement weather but also look for teaching moments, using the environment to enhance the camp experience,” Dreyer says. “Outdoor environments, and particularly their changing nature, help kids gain experience with resiliency.” Camp directors like Dreyer and Hein work hard to ensure the children in their care experience growth on an individual level. They hope kids walk away from camp with a life-long love for healthy living and outdoor activities. And ideally, kids will recognize their role in protecting these wild things, both on the micro and macro levels, from the single bee to the natural expanse it inhabits. “You won’t want to protect something, if you don’t love it first. And you won’t love it if you don’t understand it. And you won’t understand it if you’re not taught,” Hein says, paraphrasing a favorite quote from the Senegalese conservationist, Baba Dioum. “We start with that teaching piece.”
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
PLANT YOUR CURIOSITY Explore more at Denver Botanic Gardens with classes, tours and events for all ages. Visit today. 10th & York Street
SUMMER CAMP AT SOAR overnight adventures for ages 11-25 with ADHD/LDs
LEARN MORE AT SOARNC.ORG OR CALL 828-456-3435
Register today at botanicgardens.org
B OA R D I N G PAS S
WORLDF EXPERIENCES
YOUR CHILD’S TICKET TO A
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wWw.buildwithtact.org
worK shops Register at isdenver.org/summerprograms
auto | welding | stem | electronics 2022 COLORADOPARENT.COM
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Summer Camps With Unique Experiences What some call a niche, others call a passion; help your child find what they love through these programs. By Anna Sutterer
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any summer campers come home with a few bug bites, an increased knowledge of wilderness skills, and hours of practice rowing a canoe or riding a horse. While these are surely cherished moments in some people’s lives, not all kids are inclined to what some may consider the “traditional” summer camp experience. Check out some of the unique programs Denver and Front Range organizations have to offer. AERIAL DANCE Kids are great at twisting, twirling, swinging, and contorting. Aerial Cirque Over Denver camps teach students to create graceful shapes with movement on silk, trapeze, hoop, and sling apparatuses. The company’s morning and afternoon camps—2.5 hours each day for five sessions—are suited for novice aerial dancers to those with less than a year of experience, and are led by certified teaching aerialists. Ages: Six to 18 Dates: May 30 to August 26 Cost: $250 Location: Northeast Park Hill, Denver aerialcirqueoverdenver.com
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
GARDENING Time to feel the heat of the sun and play around in the dirt. Kids who attend camp at the Growing Gardens Peace Garden learn how to tend plants, explore the science of agriculture, and make snacks from the bounty of their harvest. Each week of active education has a different theme with activities focused on urban farming, art, and ecosystems. Ages: Five to 11 Cost: $345 to $395, scholarship applications available Dates: June 6 to August 12, five-day sessions Location: Boulder growinggardens.org CULTURAL ARTS Roshni is a local organization that works with diverse groups—refugees and immigrants, people with disabilities, seniors, and folks with low incomes—to tell stories that are often overlooked. This summer’s camp will incorporate dance, music, and theater to help kids create an original play. Ages: Five to 12 Dates: June, Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon (ages
five to seven) and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (ages eight to 12) Cost: $80, scholarships available Location: Historic Centennial House, north Aurora roshniislight.org FASHION AND THEATER Factory Fashion, a design workshop for all ages, helps young creators innovate and build practical textile skills in a fully-stocked sewing studio. Projects for this summer include twisted headbands, pajamas, recycled couture, Shibori dyeing, and dog fashion. Factory Five Five, sister to the fashion programs, hosts theater camps that train young actors and production teams through workshops that culminate in performance. This year’s shows for all ages include Hogwarts and Cruella; teen classes will focus on Clue: the Play, and Meow Wolf-inspired performance art. Ages: Six to 18 Cost: $250 half-day, $350 full day Dates: June 1 to August 19; three to five day sessions with half- and full-day options Location: Stanley Marketplace (fashion) and Factory Five Five, Aurora factoryfivefive.com
Background: Getty Images. Aerial: Aerial Cirque Over Denver.
Students at Aerial Cirque Over Denver camps learn how to hold themselves and move gracefully in midair, with the help of silks and hoops.
CHESS A kid that thinks critically with analysis of actions and their consequences?—the dream. One way to teach a child these skills, through the context of playing a game, is chess. National Chess Master Todd Bardwick runs the Chess Academy of Denver, which hosts camps for beginner, intermediate, and advanced players. Sessions include instruction by highly-rated U.S. Chess Federation players; score keeping and game etiquette overviews; and mini tournaments. Ages: Six to 18 Dates: June 6 to 10; morning, afternoon, and full-day options. July 5 to 7; full-day. Cost: $369 full-day June, $249 half-day June, $259 full-day July Location: Bethany Lutheran Church, Englewood (online if necessary) coloradomasterchess.com/camp SHAKESPEARE The Bard’s iconic works drip with drama—fitting material for young thespians. Colorado Shakespeare Festival invites kids to the University of Colorado Boulder campus where they will learn acting techniques in the beautiful Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre. Shakespeare’s Sprites introduces younger kids to the art form through pool-noodle fights, silly insults, and Renaissance songs; and Camp Shakespeare helps older kids work in small groups to rehearse, stage, and perform a shortened version of a play. Each program culminates in a final showing for family and friends. Ages: Six to 18 Dates: July 11 to 15 (Shakespeare’s Sprites, ages six to nine), July 18 to August 5 (Camp Shakespeare); 9 a.m. to noon. Cost: $250 to $750 Location: University of Colorado Boulder cupresents.org ENTREPRENEURSHIP Financial education can be fun for kids, especially when they’re empowered to build their own businesses and run a whole town. Young Americans Center for Financial Education offers a variety of camps including the Girls Can program, where young girls connect with local businesswomen and discover how to be financially fit, and Ameritowne courses where kids learn about government, banking, economics, supply and demand, and advertising. All camps include hands-on implementation of instruction plus breaks outside on the program deck. Ages: Youth entering grades three through eight in the 2022-2023 school year Dates: June 6 through August 5, see online for details Cost: $250 per week Location: Young Americans Centers, Denver and Lakewood yacenter.org/summer-camps FENCING Northern Colorado Fencers cover the core skills, strategies, and rules of the modern sport of fencing in their camps. No previous experience is necessary to participate, just a willing attitude to be gracious in victory and learn from defeat. Along the way, kids play games, engage in bouts with partners, and receive instruction on footwork positions and proper use of equipment (which is included in the camp). Ages: Seven to 13 Dates: May 30 through August 12. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon Cost: $195, 10 percent discount for multiple sessions and siblings Location: Northern Colorado Fencers, Boulder ncfencers.org/summer-camps
303-973-0077 5200 West Coal Mine Ave Littleton, CO 80123 denverequestrians.com
Riding School
Horseback Riding Lessons, Camps and Programs for Children and Adults of all levels. We provide the horses and tack, you bring your love for these majestic equines. Founded in 2008, our mission is to create a family-friendly environment where horse lovers of all ages have the opportunity to learn, thrive and grow. Located 20 miles SW of Denver in historic Littleton.
• • • •
Horseback Riding Lessons Summer Horse Camps School Year Camps Events and Event Center
• • • •
Signature Youth Riding Clubs Hayrides, BBQs & Barn parties Horse Blanket & Cleaning Services Line Dancing Lessons
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Preparing kids for the game of life since 1986 through skills improvement, youth development, and technology exploration.
GOLD CROWN FOUNDATION PROGRAMS
Various camps, clinics, workshops, leagues and tournaments offered throughout the year in a safe environment. 2nd–12th grade boys and girls. FEATURING: Basketball | Volleyball | Golf | Design | Technology | Art
VISIT GOLDCROWNFOUNDATION.COM FOR OFFERINGS AND INFORMATION
Summer at Ricks
MAKE A WITH ROCKY MOUNTAIN SPLASH ARTISTIC SWIMMING TEAM
Summer at Ricks blends fun summer activities with rich learning experiences all while enjoying the benefits of the University of Denver Campus. Campers entering preschool to eighth grade will enjoy themes including Rollin’ into Summer with Pete the Cat, Moose on the Loose, Be Your Own Toy Maker, Art-Rageous Kids, Mad Scientist Jr., Play-Well Lego, and much more.
Is your child interested in swimming, g ymnastics, and dance? Ar tistic swimming might be your ticket! Tr y an Olympic spor t with us! See our website for summer camp and clinic dates.
rmsplash.org
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT US AT OR EMAIL INFORMATION@RMSPLASH.ORG
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
Email ricksctr@du.edu or Call 303.871.3715 to learn more!
happenings What’s Coming
this summer Add these festivals and seasonal offerings to your family calendar.
Opener: The Original Harlem Globetrotters.
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Alpine Springs at Water World May 28 to September 5 The popular water park north of Denver opens its new Colorado-themed water play arena this summer. Alpine Springs features the Roaring Forks water coaster with two dueling paths to allow riders some speed competition, and the Centennial Basin raft experience complete with a mega bowl. Cost: $27 to $43 adult, $22 to $37 child; $139 to $184 family four-pack (depending on the date) includes admission with a meal plan and Pepsi products Location: Water World, Federal Heights waterworldcolorado.com
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happenings Our Picks
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Dance: Tesoro Cultural Center. Boulder: Boulder Creek Festival. Child with fabric: Tom Kimmel Photography.
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Annual Indian Market & Ceremonial Dance
June 4 and 5, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Award-winning Indigenous artists sell and demonstrate their work in a juried show, The Fort Restaurant and Tatanka food truck serve up delicious fare, and entertainment abounds, from music and performances to hands-on activities and Nature’s Educators demonstrations. Celebrate early Southwestern history and honor the American Indian people who shaped the original cultural community of the area. Cost: $10, free age 12 and under Location: The Fort, Morrison tesoroculturalcenter.org
Boulder Creek Festival
May 28 through 30 Kick off your summer of family fun with a weekend full of food, music, art, and outdoor activities. Kids can climb up a rock wall and through an obstacle course, bounce to their hearts’ content on trampolines, cool down with some morning yoga, and dance to a family disco. Swing by craft and artisan booths to pick up something special, and refuel at one—or a few—of many food stations as you wind through festival tents and along the tree-lined creek. Cost: Free entry, fee for food and some activities Location: Along the Boulder Creek from Ninth to 14th Street between Canyon Boulevard and Arapahoe Avenue bouldercreekfest.com
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Green Box Arts Festival June 18 through July 4 This year’s art-palooza for all ages includes a new installation—the Skyspace, where attendees can enjoy contemplative sunrise and sunset shows. Don’t miss the block party, stunt dog show, or Ballet Hispánico performances. Set in picturesque woods with lovely hiking opportunities, this is a quintessential Colorado summer activity. Cost: Watch website for details Location: Various sites around Green Mountain Falls greenboxarts.org
HEADS UP! Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information and check with locations about individual COVID rules.
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
Pride: The Center on Colfax. Rodeo: Steve F. Gray. Colorado Black Arts Festival: Joe Neely.
happenings
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Denver Pride Fest and Parade
June 25 and 26 Join the celebration as thousands of people flock to Colorado’s capital city to march, cheer on colorful floats, and uplift the LGBTQ+ community. Enjoy resource exhibitions, food and beverage vendors, and live performances all weekend long. The Parade, on June 26 at 9:30 a.m., encourages guests to walk with pride from Cheesman Park to Civic Center, where PrideFest is held. Cost: Free and open to the public Location: Civic Center Park, Denver denverpride.org
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Our Picks
Rooftop Rodeo
July 6 to 11 Rooftop packs a week full of professional riding and interactive events for the whole family. The parade, scheduled for July 7, includes appearances from bands, floats, and trick riders making their way through downtown Estes Park. Pros compete in rodeos with remarkable skill, and visitors are invited to join in the fun with interactive events. Cost: Free parade; purchase tickets for rodeo events Location: Granny May Arena and downtown Estes Park rooftoprodeo.com
Camps starting July 2022, Register now at AthenaProjectArts.org
STAND-UP COMEDY
DESIGN FASHION
WRITE PLAYS
Colorado Black Arts Festival
July 8 through 10 Turning up the volume on African American arts and culture, this fair welcomes folks to enjoy music and dance performances, artist showcases, and a Children’s Pavilion filled with activities. The Boogaloo Celebration Parade combines drill teams, step teams, and social groups for an exciting street celebration. Cost: Free and open to the public Location: City Park West neighborhood, Denver colbaf.org
SUMMER CAMP Registration Opens 2/15
Preschool-8th Grade
Gold Standard Project-Based Learning Mindfulness-Based Social Emo:onal Curriculum Challenging and Engaging Academics Commi>ment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
ENROLLING NOW FOR FALL 2022
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2022 COLORADOPARENT.COM
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happenings Our Picks
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City Park Farmers Market May 14 through Oct. 29; Sat, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Find what’s fresh at this street market, open all summer long. Food options for breakfast, brunch, and lunch are available; eat at a nearby table while listening to local musicians. Some favorite vendors include Ela Family Farms, Bjorn’s Colorado Honey, and Jubilee Roasting Co. This is also a compost market, meaning all disposable goods served can be composted here for free. Cost: Free entry and open to the public Location: City Park Esplanade, Denver cityparkfarmersmarket.com
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GET YOUR KIDS COOKING THIS SUMMER! Week long Themed Day Camps. Half day & full day programs available. Ages 7- 17. YOUR CHILD BRINGS HOME DINNER EVERY DAY!
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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
UncorkedKitchen.com 720.907.3838
June 18 through Aug. 7; Sat and Sun, 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Revel in the splendor of 16th century recreation at the Renaissance Festival. Watch artisans create ancient crafts and taste a selection of roast turkey legs, steak on a stake, and fresh baked goods. A cast of hundreds of authentically-costumed merrymakers bring the village grounds alive and entertainers in comedy, music, and jousting elevate the experience. Look out for themed weekends (listed online) to attend according to your family’s interests. Cost: $24 adult, $12 ages five to 12, free age four and under Location: Colorado Renaissance Festival, Larkspur coloradorenaissance.com
Cherry Pie Celebration
July 16 Commemorating Loveland’s long standing connection to the cherry industry—the town had the largest orchard west of the Mississippi in the 1920s—this annual celebration serves up portions of pie, ice cream, coffee, and lemonade (for purchase). Visitors can enjoy live music, vendor booths, and children’s activities between sweet treats. Cost: Free and open to the public Location: Peters Park, Loveland thelovelandmuseum.org
Farmers Market: City Park Farmers Market. Renaissance Festival: Josh Sepelak. Cherry Pie Festival: Loveland Museum. Cherries: Getty Images.
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Colorado Renaissance Festival
Summer Is Coming! At Primrose Schools Summer Adventure Club, there’s so much to discover. Every week, children explore new themes- like sports, arts, robotics and more- through fun handson activities that encourage learning and new ways of thinking. Join us al summer long and together we’ll create Active Minds, Healthy Bodies, and Happy Hearts.
Scan to Register:
Summer Adventure Club Offered Each Week • May 31st- August 24th Fun for children in kindergarten through fifth grade! Primrose School of Denver Central Park 303.322.7200 2501 Syracuse St, Denver CO 80238
Primrose School of Thornton 303-279-0525 12899 Grant Drive, Thornton CO 80241
Primrose School of Denver North 720.405.5150 9954 E 59th Ave, Denver CO 80238
2022 COLORADOPARENT.COM
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fresh mindset
Giving your child the freedom to be on their own at camp is a true gift. It sends the child the message that the parent trusts their ability to be independent independent,, which is the first step in fostering that growth. Summer camps nurture the whole child, not just their cognitive side.
BROOKE CHELEY-KLEBE is part of the fourth generation to operate and own Cheley Colorado Camps in Estes Park, a 100-year old residential summer camp for kids. Brooke lives in Denver in the winter and Estes Park in the summer with her husband and their three daughters. 38
ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER 2022
Brook Cheley-Klebe and family: Nikki Krogh Photography.
fresh mindset
, e r e h t y He
Are you ready for a
climbing & soaring,
splashing & laughing,
sunshine & sandy toes kind of summer?
mychildsmuseum.org
